Ask five couples to name their top romantic holiday destination and you will probably get five very different answers. They may include Hawaii, The Lake District, The Maldives, Italy, or anywhere without the kids!

Paris

Topping the list, is the love capital, Paris, which deserves its reputation as one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in the world. Is there a love-struck couple that haven't visited or dreamt of visiting the city famed for its seductive ambiance, sultry atmosphere and exquisite cuisine?
Paris oozes romance from its moonlit cruises on the River Seine or a stroll along its embankments in the shadow of Notre Dame, to the views from the Sacré Coeur and the Eiffel Tower, Paris is a couple’s paradise. If you weren't in love when you arrived, you will be when you leave.

Island hopping in Greece

The Greek Islands offer an idyllic romantic getaway, 'hopping' from one to another to discover the many different Grecian charms, from the azure waters of Paxos to the mountains of Crete. With beautiful year round weather, history and culture in abundance, stunning beaches and magnificent scenery, visitors are spoilt for choice in the Greek Islands, with something to suit all types of couples.

The Lake District

The Lake District is one of the most stunning tourist destinations in the world with breathtaking scenery encompassing sparkling lakes, mountains and rolling hills that offer multiple opportunities for romantic walks. The quaint country pubs are ideal for quiet meals together, secluded from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. There is cosy accommodation in abundance, nestled into the lush landscape and if the weather is inclement, what better excuse to stay indoors with your loved one and just enjoy each other.

Romance in Spain

The Spanish city of Seville may not spring to mind as a lover's retreat, but the Andalucian capital is a treasure with evidence everywhere of its Moorish past. Couples will enjoy exploring the winding medieval streets, the orange blossom scented plazas and the stunning architecture. There is no better city in Spain for sampling the shared delights of the many tapas bars, restaurants and buzzing nightlife. Staying in an authentic hacienda, hotel or guest house, Seville is a magical place and not far from the golden beaches of the Costa de la Cruz, which is famed for its various naturist beaches that the more confident couple might enjoy.

St. Barths

This top five would be incomplete without the Caribbean Islands and in particular, St. Barths. This island has become a destination for loved-up couples seeking a romantic getaway in a tropical paradise with picture perfect surroundings. Couples will enjoy the exclusivity of the island where the welcome of the islanders is warm and genuine and where soft sandy beaches stretch for miles. A couple's Eden, St. Barths will enchant, captivate and share its romance with all who journey there.

 

Are you thinking about booking a last minute summer holiday? How would you like to win £300 of hotel vouchers from Lodging World?

All you have to do to be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize is tell us either your best or your worst holiday experience EVER in 150 – 400 words!

Simply comment in the box below with your holiday tale and once you have entered, make sure you mention us on Twitter either using @lodging_world or #holidaytale in your tweet to be in with a chance of winning!

It really is that easy! Be sure to follow @lodging_world and RT and share with your followers too.

We look forward to hearing all of your stories and will pick our favourite as the winner! The top 3 entrants will also be given the chance to write for us regularly about your travel adventures!

Thank you and good luck!

Childhood holiday memories conjure up picnics on the beach with sandwiches full of sand and seagull cries mingled with the sound of fairground organs. Trousers were rolled up and dresses tucked into knickers for crabbing in rock pools with the sand squidging up between your toes. And rainy days were spent pushing pennies into the slot machines at the penny arcades. Then, as the evening drew in, it was time for fish and chips on the seafront and the walk back to the caravan park or to the landlady in charge at the B&B. Nowadays, the sounds, sights and smells remain the same, but the fearsome landlady of old has been replaced by a new breed of B&B owner, keen to show off their hospitality to seaside aficionados.

The Isle of Wight

Photographer, Martin Parr remains enthralled by the Northbank Hotel where some families have been returning for their summer holiday for generations. Packed with old-fashioned charm, he describes a stay at this Isle of Wight hotel as similar to staying with an "eccentric aunt", complete with dinners seemingly from another era and curious objects dotted around the place. He sings the praises of a hotel that has managed to buck the trend of moving with the times and that has resisted becoming part of a homogenised chain.

Blackpool

The designer, Wayne Hemingway recalls growing up close to Blackpool and the thrill of the trams decked out in lights to resemble ships, trains and planes rattling past under the famous illuminations. He believes the sight helped to develop a massive interest in everything kitsch, which he still retains to this day. The famous illuminations are still going strong and attracting visitors to the town with this unique display.

Norfolk

As someone who writes a blog on all things kitsch, Teena Vallerine adores the wonky, misspelled hand-painted signs to be found along the Norfolk coast, advertising candyfloss and ice cream in garish colours. In her childhood, she was persuaded by these signs to eat things that she would "not normally feed to the dog". She believes that these curious signs and brash neon lighting represent everything that is kitsch and affectionate about the British seaside holiday.

Eastbourne

Annual summer holidays in Eastbourne caused author, Travis Elborough to become obsessed with pirates. The Treasure Island family park that played a significant part in his childhood memories is still there to this day, charming children with little more than a paddling pool, a few barrels and planks of wood and a lot of imagination.

Mumbles

Amanda Baillieu is a journalist specialising in architecture and so appropriately enough, she is drawn to the rusty pier at Mumbles. Once home to choirs, concerts and fireworks, the pier is now best enjoyed for its stunning views across the bay. Amanda mourns its potential passing as redevelopment in the area threatens its continued existence.

Llandudno

The editor of Coast Magazine, Claire Gogerty, enjoys a trip in the cable car that carries passengers through the air from Happy Valley Park to the summit of Great Orme a mile away. Suspended perilously in a seemingly flimsy tin structure, she enjoys the views of Conway Estuary across to Anglesey.

Take a tour through British history as you follow royalty, royal palaces and churches across London from east to west.

Eltham Palace

Start at Eltham in southeast London by visiting Eltham Palace. First bought by the future Edward II in 1305, it was a royal residence between the 14th and 16th centuries. Henry VIII grew up there, as did Elizabeth I. It was rebuilt in the 1930s and is one of Britain's finest examples of Art Deco architecture.

Tower of London

Travel east to the Tower of London, first built as a fortress after the 1066 Norman invasion. It has been an armoury, the home of the Royal Mint and is still the home of the Crown Jewels. It has held some famous prisoners, including Anne Boleyn, Sir Walter Raleigh and Guy Fawkes, who began their incarceration by passing through the Traitor's Gate by boat from the River Thames. 

Whitehall 

Take a boat to the Thames Embankment, disembark and walk along Northumberland Avenue, Whitehall and towards Westminster. This area was once occupied by Whitehall Palace, the largest complex of royal buildings ever built in England, however today, only the Banqueting House remains.

Westminster Abbey

Walk along past Parliament Square towards Westminster Abbey, where many historical British Monarchs have been crowned. Continue towards the Horse Guards Parade and you will arrive at Trafalgar Square and The Mall, London's famous royal carriageway to Buckingham Palace. All notable royal processions, marriages, funerals, Jubilees and foreign state visits take place along this road.

St. James's Palace

St. James's Palace, is officially the main residence of the Queen. Foreign ambassadors are accredited to the Court of St. James. Queen Elizabeth I set out from here to address troops at Tilbury in east London when she heard that the Spanish Armada was on its way to England

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace remains as the Monarch's office but is no longer a permanent royal residence. The State Rooms are open during the summer together with special exhibitions, whilst the Queen's Gallery, is open regularly throughout the year. The Royal Mews contains stabling accommodation for the royal horses as well as their carriage is open all year round.

Hampton Court

Return to the Thames Embankment and take a boat to Hampton Court Palace. Originally a country house transformed into a palace by Cardinal Thomas Wolsey, it was acquired by Henry VIII after Wolsey's downfall. Enjoy the gardens, the kitchens, the maze and a picnic alongside the River Thames.
 

Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle is just a short bus ride or drive away in Berkshire. Originally built after the Norman invasion, it is the principal royal residence of Queen Elizabeth II. What started as a medieval palace with its famous Round Tower, today has Georgian and Victorian extensions. End your tour with a short walk to Runneymede, where in 1215 English royalty signed away its absolute power in the Magna Carta.

While you will find plenty of online sites, such as the great Lodging World website, with a fantastic selection of travel destinations, you may still be left undecided. However, for many there is nowhere finer than the Czech Republic's Prague, as it is quickly becoming one of the most popular travel destinations on the planet.

The Old World.

One of the best things about this splendid city is that it remained virtually untouched by the ravages of the Second World War. Thus the city's compact medieval centre, replete with wonderful cobbled streets, glorious cathedrals and courtyards, retains all the glories of the past.

Prague Castle, said to be the largest ancient castle in the world, is a must see. The castle offers some of the best views you will ever see, while the site is also home to the great St. Vitus Cathedral, the Castle Picture Gallery, numerous museums and the splendid Royal Gardens.

The magnificent Charles Bridge is another historic must see. Dating back to the 14th century, the bridge, arguably one of the most beautiful structures in the whole of the city, connects the 'old town' with the so-called 'Lesser Town'. Here you will find a plethora of great street entertainment just about all year round.

The Old Town remains the city's historic centre. Here you can see the famous Astronomical Clock and one of the finest examples of Gothic Architecture, Tyn Church. Further highlights include the Storch building, decorated from head to foot in murals, the Jan Hus monument and the Estate Theatre, the place where Mozart's Don Giovanni had its infamous premier.

The New World.

The New Town was built in the 14th century as an extension of the Old Town. While the area has since been extensively reconstructed, the New Town displays a fascinating mix of the traditional and the modern, with its Art Nouveau architecture and state of the art shopping centre. Wenceslas Square remains the focal point of the New Town and it is here that you will find not only an abundance of fine restaurants and a thoroughly modern shopping district, but also the great National Museum and the splendid, multi-coloured Jubilee Synagogue.

The New Town is also the area where you will find the best in vibrant and cutting edge nightlife. Plenty of buzzing bars, trendy discos and contemporary clubs pack the area from one end to the next.

The Pick of the Attractions.

While there are an unlimited number of great attractions here, one or two stand out from the rest. For the arts, the Czech National Gallery is a must, as is the Museum of Czech Cubism in the House of the Black Madonna, situated in the Old Town. For something a touch more contemporary, the DOX centre for contemporary art has some of the finest cutting-edge works around.

For the kids, Prague Zoo is always a favourite (take bus no.112 from the Nadrazi Holesovice), while the nearby Troja Chateau can be seen in the same day. Here you will find the fascinating Botanic Gardens and a vast array of wonderful sculptures and gardens.

If you’re anything like us, then you’ll be wishing that you could send those Monday morning blues packing with a restful and relaxing break. Worse still, your colleagues in the office will have been happily telling everyone about their pre-booked beach holiday for weeks on end. Instead of just gritting your teeth, smiling and worrying about how you’re going to pick up their workload, why not join them? Have a look at our recommended destinations and book a last-minute holiday! Heck, if it’s good enough for the Prime Minister and his deputy, then do it!

Spain

We’ve covered Spain and its Mediterranean wonders before in previous blog posts, but there really shouldn’t be any underestimation when it comes to the Iberian nation as a last-minute destination. No longer marketed as a purely beach-holiday-for-two-weeks destination, you can now go to Spain for a few days, a weekend or longer. Whether you want an urban break in its gorgeous cities or to just chill on the Spanish shores, it’s got it.

Turkey

For me, Turkey is a land of contrasts and it’s no coincidence that this stems from its geographical location spanning two continents. It sometimes gets a negative reputation as the country of two-star package deals, but this is uncalled for, as it really has some great assets. It’s got some amazing draws for the prospective traveller: history, culture, food and of course the weather. It deserves a place on our list of fantastic last-minute destinations as it’s a growing haven for tourists and still inexpensive compared to its European neighbours.

Egypt

Despite the recent events concerning the Arab Spring, Egypt still values its tourists and excitedly can’t wait for the summer season to welcome you back. It has always been a beautiful country to visit and now, more than ever, it seems to stand resolute as a testament to their historic strength. Egypt is extremely accessible as a last-minute destination, particularly for couples or solo travellers.

Greece

Again – as with its cousin Spain – we have covered Greece in some of our recent blog posts. What I would really like to highlight however, is the appeal of Greece as a last-minute holiday destination for groups of young people. Ironic as it is that Greece is the everlasting symbol of ancient civilisation, the country still maintains its youth-friendly ambience. The Hellenic nation is vibrant, cool and also resolute in picking itself up after a dramatic recession. Like Egypt, Greece loves tourists and wants you to come back!

France

Perhaps the ultimate destination in last-minute trips, France is perfect for those just wanting to get away from it all. It’s even been immortalised in the legendary chick flick Bridget Jones’s Diary as the last-ditch destination for Bridget to forget all about her love interest Mark Darcy! France is not only accessible to us Brits by car and a short flight, but also by rail thanks to the Eurostar London-Paris service. Whether it’s a firmly rural break in the country, a city break in Paris or a sunshine week in the French Riviera, France is well worth checking out.

Last-minute holidays: are they a winner in your book? Where are you going this year?

Formerly known as the royal capital of Poland, Krakow has transformed itself into a major hub for this modern central European city. Krakow came to prominence during the coverage of the Euro 2012 football tournament; even though the city was devoid of matches, both the England team and visiting English spectators seemed to set up a successful base there. We thought it was about time to produce a guide to Krakow, so here goes!

Main Square

The hub of the city is the Main Square – or Rynek Główny in Polish – and was once the largest city square in medieval Europe. The Cloth Hall (the Sukiennice) stands at the centre of the square and is one of Krakow’s most recognisable icons. If not for its architectural features, from a historical perspective the Cloth Hall is outstanding; it was once a figure in international trade as European merchants came here to barter.

The old town hall tower, Wieza Ratuszowa, stands to one side of the Cloth Hall. The space beneath the tower was once a prison and torture chamber. It has been used as a theatre stage for more than four decades.

The Gothic St. Mary’s Basilica, known as the Mariacki Church, dominates one side of the square. A huge wooden triptych completed in 1489 hangs over the main altar. A bugle is played on the hour, every hour from the tower of the church. It breaks off in mid-phrase in a tradition that commemorates the moment when a bugler warning of a Tatar invasion was shot in the throat by an arrow. This church inspired many more churches around the world which were built by Polish immigrants.

For history and heritage seekers, these three gorgeous buildings are must-see destinations.

Wawel Castle

Wawel Castle was built in the 14th century in a Gothic style on the mythical Krakus Hill, just outside the old town centre. Royal coronations took place in the castle's cathedral from 1320 until 1764 when Stanislaw August Poniatowski - the last king of Poland - was crowned. The vaults of the cathedral are a mausoleum for Polish monarchs and other national heroes.

Kazimierz

The Kazimierz district, just down the hill from the castle, was a historically Jewish settlement from the 14th century to the Second World War. This is an area with an unbelievable amount of religious and social history, as unfortunately after the war it became sort of a desolate area with many formerly glorious buildings becoming empty shells. Kazimierz has since discovered its strong Jewish roots and there are many intriguing events being held there for people of the Jewish faith. Interestingly, Steven Spielberg shot Schindler’s List in Kazimierz, and this helped tourism tremendously in the area. There are seven synagogues remaining in Kazimierz, two of which are active.

Wieliczka

The Wieliczka Salt Mine, just six miles southeast of the city centre and within the Krakow metropolitan area, operated from the 13th century until 1996, producing table salt. It closed because of flooding but has magnificent salt sculptures, chambers, chapels and chandeliers spread over five different levels underground.

We have some amazing Krakow accommodation, so come and check it out! Is Krakow on your “must-travel list” of 2012? Let us know what you think in our comments box.

Benicassim Festival - Spain

Festival Internacional de Benicàssim is a four-day festival which took place in Benicàssim from 12 to 15 July. Set into Spain's eastern coast between Valencia and Barcelona, it is guaranteed that when the Glastonbury cows take a breather for a year, this sleepy Spanish town becomes crawling with Brits. A fabulous line up at this long-established event included The Stone Roses, Bob Dylan, New Order, Florence + The Machine, Jessie J, Noel Gallagher, Little Boots, David Guetta, New Order, Buzzcocks and The Antlers. For more information, check out their website http://benicassimfestival.co.uk/

Les Nuits de Fourvière - France

If its location in Lyon is anything to go by, then by attending this French festival, you’re in for an elegant experience; one of the circuit’s marathon runners, this festival has been going on since 5 June and continues until 31 July! This festival is more of a fully-rounded arts festival than a simple music-and-beer event, so you will see acts such as Jane Birkin, Antony and the Johnsons and Yannick Noah alongside The Stone Roses, Kasabian, Björk, Bob Dylan and Bon Iver; entry is from 15€ per event. For more information, check out their website http://www.nuitsdefourviere.com/

Kazantip - Ukraine

From 31 July until 15 August, there is a month-long festival of myth and legend on the shores of the Black Sea. Think of it less as a standard festival, but a month’s experience of exploring futuristic and progressive music in an exotic eastern European environment. Be warned, it is a progressive and experimental event, perhaps not for the traditional mind-set; Kazantip calls itself the “paradise rave republic” and it certainly lives up to the name. The line-up is yet to be confirmed, but there are six stages and a whole lot of things happening. For more information, check out their website at http://kazantip-republic.com/

 Electric Picnic – Republic of Ireland

Electric Picnic on 31 August to 2 September should perhaps be renamed “Eclectic Picnic” as it boasts an amazing line-up that comprises various different genres. Couple this with a cheerful Irish crowd and you’ve got a fantastic festival that is not too far away for the reluctant festival reveller. A festival in the same tradition as Wales’s Green Man Festival, it is a hippy mix with a family-friendly and mellow vibe that will have you thinking you’re a modern-day flower child. The line-up for 2012 includes The Cure, The Killers, Elbow, Patti Smith and Richard Hawley. For more information, check out their website. http://electricpicnic.ie/lineup

Berlin Festival - Germany

Bored with the age-old “festival-in-a-field” formula? This giant party in Berlin kicks off on 7 September and runs for two days; appearing in the disused aeroplane hangar this year are Franz Ferdinand, The Killers, Sigur Rós, Orbital, Kate Nash, Clock Opera, Grimes, Dada Life and Metronomy. For two-day ticket holders there is a ‘Silent Aftershow Party’, so you can continue the party into the next day. For more information, check out their website at http://www.berlinfestival.de/?lang=en

Of course, all of these festivals are fantastic in their own right but why not stay on for a couple more days and experience your host country or city a bit more? Check out our recommended accommodation! Are you headed to any of these exquisite continental events? Let us know in our comments box.

The rise of the staycation, which describes the act of people holidaying at home rather than abroad, is growing in popularity as the economic climate remains gloomy and more and more of us choose to stay in the UK and explore what our own country has to offer.

Apart from the cost savings associated with not having to book expensive flights, there's also the benefit of not having the hassle that's involved in air travel, especially if you are travelling with young children. It's far easier to simply jump in your car or on a train and head off.

That doesn't have to mean compromising on what you want to do, or going without a beach holiday. The UK has so much to offer that's on our doorstep and while the weather is never guaranteed, some parts of the country do have a good record for sunshine during the summer months.

Bournemouth

The seaside town of Bournemouth is a great place to head for if you are looking for a traditional bucket-and-spade holiday. It's also one of sunniest places in the country and enjoys warmer temperatures and less rain than many other parts of the UK.

With its long sandy beach, which stretches for 11 km, a wide range of accommodation and plenty of things for all the family to do, Bournemouth is a great choice for your staycation. You can take a stroll along the traditional Bournemouth Pier, or if you're feeling more active, there is a huge range of water sports on offer. Indoors, the aquarium is home to sharks, sea turtles, rays and many more marine species.

Southport

Southport - 20 miles north of Liverpool - has a curious mix of contemporary facilities and traditional Victorian seaside. The town features the country's second oldest and second longest pier. There's a pier tram to take you on the mile-long trip towards the sea and the pavilion with its splendid café, penny slot machines and information about the local environment and wildlife.

There are several beaches including Southport Beach, with its clean stretch of golden sands and the nearby Ainsdale Beach with its sand dunes and adjacent local nature reserve. Ainsdale is popular with kite sports enthusiasts, both on the beach and in the sea.

New Quay

Wales also has some fantastic holiday destinations. New Quay, situated on Cardigan Bay in West Wales, has unspoilt beaches, a sheltered harbour and is a popular sailing centre. You can also take a boat trip to go dolphin and seal spotting. Children and rail enthusiasts will love the Vale of Rheidol Steam Railway while archaeology buffs will want to visit Pentre Ifan, a megalithic burial chamber dating from 3500 BC. New Quay has three beaches of its own and enjoying fish and chips and an ice-cream on the sands is the perfect way to end the day.

Anglesey

Anglesey, the biggest island in Wales, is another popular seaside holiday spot thanks to its spectacular 125 miles of coastline and remote, unspoilt location. Anglesey is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and has plenty of safe, well-managed beaches. You can make your own fun simply swimming and building sandcastles or enjoy the huge variety of water sports on offer. It's also a popular location for diving, with an estimated 1,200 wrecks dotted around the shoreline.

Are you considering a staycation this year? Where are you going?

With the wettest April-June period on British record, more and more of us are spending our days in the office daydreaming of a real summer break with some glorious weather. As the economic climate continues to falter, many are finding a proper fortnight of sunshine difficult to budget for. This is where a weekend city break can offer some consolation: a nice slice of respite without the four-figure price tag.

You will be hard pressed to beat the time honoured classics - such as Paris, Rome and Barcelona – but while these wonderful destinations are among the best in the world, you need to be sure you know what to do when you get there. This post hopes to illustrate how to get the best out of each city.

Paris

While favourites such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre should not be missed, alternative pleasures such as strolling through the streets of the famous Bohemian Left Bank should not be dismissed. This is the area where great artists such as Picasso would literally rub shoulders with intellectuals such as Jean Paul Sartre and a visit to the studios where Picasso once worked is a must. For fine dining, the splendid Dome is certainly worth a visit, while getting yourself around on one of the 'Velib' hire bicycles (available throughout Paris), is the way to travel for a hassle-free visit.

Rome

For both the visual aspect and the historical, Rome still remains the top city destination for many people. The beautiful cobbled street of the Via Giulia is one of the lesser known but, nonetheless, unmissable highlights. The street is guarded at one end by a magnificent bridge and the equally magnificent Palazzo Farnese. The captivating creepers that line the street add to the attraction of this; one of the finest places to enjoy views of the entire city. Further must-dos include enjoying an ice cream at one of the many Gelato di San Crispino's, trekking to the 2,000 year old Foro Romano and, of course, checking out the fascinating Vatican City.

Barcelona

Strolling through the Barri Gotic area of Barcelona should be among the highlights of anyone's travel experiences. Its hidden squares and winding streets, palaces and fountains, make this a must-see. However, for art galleries and museums, Barcelona is pretty much unbeatable. The best option here is to get an "articket," which will get you into several museums for less than £30. Nonetheless, taking in the numerous examples of Gaudi architecture that pepper the city; including the Parc Güell in Gràcia and the Sagrada Família in Eixample is a must, not least because it's free. Further highlights include the Museum of Natural History in the Ciutadella Park.

Berlin

Now the symbol of a unified Germany, the once divided Berlin is now a modern and fashionable city. The elegant Kurfürstendamm Boulevard and famous Brandenburg Gate are a must, while the Schloss Charlottenburg, with its splendid gardens, should not be missed either. Further highlights include the thoroughly modern Potsdamer Platz, which remains the most vibrant part of the city.

Prague

One of the most fascinating cities in Europe - Prague - has just about everything for the perfect weekend break. From the massive Prague Castle, the beautiful Charles Bridge and the fascinating historic centre of the Old Town, the whole family will find something up their street.

For something a touch more modern and commercial, the New Town is the area to go. In addition to being home to some of the finest restaurants in the city, this is where you will find the best of the nightlife. The National Museum and the glorious Jubilee Synagogue are also found here.

There you have just five of the top cities in the world for great weekend breaks and this selection is certainly not exhaustive. Where are you hoping to go on your city break this year?