Destination Guide: The Himalayas – Adventure Sports Holidays

Posted on March 25, 2022 by worldwideinsure

If you like your holiday to be packed with adrenaline highs then the Himalayas are a veritable playground, and must-do destination. Here’s where to go and what to do to make the most of an adventure sports holiday.

Nepal Travel Guide Image

Image by photodrishti CC0

Mountain Biking

The Manali-Leh Highway offers mountain bike enthusiasts an incredible opportunity to soak up scenery. It takes at least eight days to travel the entire highway, you may want to allow more time to spend a bit longer at each rest stop on the way to Leh. When to book: July to September.

Pony Trekking

These sure-footed creatures make light work for anyone looking to trek the world’s highest mountain range. A trek to the Lost  Kingdom of Mustang takes around 11 to 16 days, and will offer an off-the-beaten-track cultural adventure of a lifetime. Best time for pony trekking: spring and autumn when slopes are free of mud and snow.

 

Himalaya Adventure Holidays Image

Image by enkhtamir CC0

Rafting

Nepal is considered one of the best places in the world for white water rafting. Not only are the rivers long, the water is clean and the scenery jaw-droppingly beautiful be it mountain or jungle. Pokhara is a great place to base yourself for a single-day white water rafting trip on the Seti River. For a longer experience, say 10 days, get yourself to one of the remotest parts of Western Nepal and on to the Karnali River and paddle it all the way to Bardia National Park. When NOT to go: June to August is Monsoon season making some rivers too dangerous to raft, and others only for the most experienced of white water rafters.

Top Tip: Get adventure sports travel insurance! Our Wintersport and Ski Travel Insurance offers specialist cover for a huge range of sports and activities. An accident or injury no matter how small on an adventure sports break can be financially and emotionally devastating. We can offer policies that offer peace of mind when you need it most, but hopefully you won’t need it at all!

Himalaya Travel Insurance Image

Image by owlracer0 CC0

Heli Skiing

Head to Himachal Pradesh in India to really connect with the Himalayan peaks with a spot of Heli Skiing. Here you’ll find drops up to 5,000 metres, surrounded by 7000m peaks, and terminating in cedar forest after an adrenaline-boosting glide down the ridge lines. The nature of the terrain means these trips are only suited to intermediate to expert skiers. Best time to go: January to March.

Trekking

Trekking to Everest Base Camp is on just about everyone’s adventure bucket list. It’s generally a 14 day adventure trekking around five hours a day in difficult terrain and takes place in the Khumbu Region in Nepal, which will require getting a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, weather permitting of course! For those who fancy something a little less challenging, the Annapurna trailhead in the Annapurna Region is a great place to start a trekking adventure on foot. Best time to trek: March-May or October-December.

Everest Basecamp Travel Insurance Image

Image by danieltitovan CC0

Rock Climbing

If you are heading to the highest mountain range in the world, rock climbing might be on your agenda! Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Hattiban are the places to head for vertical adventures. Best time to go: March to May and September to December.

Paragliding

Bir-Billing in Himachel Pradesh, India is one of the most popular spots for paragliding in the Himalayas thanks to the topography creating steady thermals – don’t let that fool you into any sense of security though! Take it past the ridgeline, accidentally or otherwise and you’ll be contending with a very different beast. Best time to go: March through June – but it can get very busy, maybe not what you want in the sky! It is worth noting that Bir Billing is open all year except July and August when monsoons stop play.

 

Don’t forget your adventure sports travel insurance! Our Wintersport and Ski Travel Insurance offers specialist cover for a huge range of sports and activities.

 

 

Posted in Destination Guide, Ski Insurance | Comments Off on Destination Guide: The Himalayas – Adventure Sports Holidays

Handy Hacks For Packing Light – Hand Luggage Only 

Posted on March 18, 2022 by worldwideinsure

Whether you are heading off on a short city break or you are just looking to avoid baggage queues and fees, learning how to pack light and take hand luggage only is a useful life skill! Here are some handy hacks for packing light.

Hand Luggage Packing Hacks Image

Image by LUM3EM CC0

 

  1. Wear your bulkiest items. Particularly useful if you want to take hiking boots or shoes, and big warm jumpers.
  2. Ditch your usual towels for hammam towels or a sarong.These are thin and quick to dry – a sarong also doubles up as so many other items!
  3. Opt for an e-book – much more space saving even if you were only planning to pack one book.
  4. Get your toiletries at your destination. Pharmacies and supermarkets are abundant and you may well find your hotel or apartment has complementary products including a toothbrush.
  5. Consider compression packing cubes to be able to fit more into your hand luggage. Top tip: save compressing for on the way back so you can fit any purchases you made while you were away into your bag!
  6. Going for more than three days? Still only take 3 of each thing with the idea of wear one, wash one, dry one to keep your packing stack down.
  7. Check airline restrictions as you may be allowed a second handbag or laptop bag as well as your carry on – if so, use this opportunity wisely and get a bag with lots of useful compartments for chargers, kindle, passport, wallet etc.
  8. Decant creams and makeup into travel pots to save space in your cosmetic bag.
  9. Plan your wardrobe! Either set your outfit choices out before you go, or plan a capsule wardrobe to cut down on the amount of clothes to pack – this includes accessories and jewellery too.
  10. Roll and fold to work with the space and the bag you have. It doesn’t have to be one or the other, just maximise the packing potential of your carry-on.

 

Don’t forget your travel insurance! You may have cut the risk of loss buy cutting out hold luggage, but flight delays, cancellations, theft, accidental damage, accident and injury are all very real risks when travelling. You can buy peace of mind, and have help there should you need it with single trip or annual travel insurance.

Posted in Travel Tips, Uncategorized | Comments Off on Handy Hacks For Packing Light – Hand Luggage Only 

Mother’s Day European City Break Ideas

Posted on March 11, 2022 by worldwideinsure

 

A late spring European city break is the ultimate Mother’s Day treat. We’ve uncovered three of the best destinations for a mini break and shared the best things to see, eat and buy while you are there.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona City break Image

Image by 32212 CC0

City break with a an option to hit the beach? Barcelona has it! Even though the weather at the end of March isn’t exactly scorchio it is definitely warm enough to enjoy al fresco dining and taking in the vistas. If you haven’t been before then a short break is best spent in a decent pair of trainers exploring the sights of the city.

What to see

Park Güell is a fantastical place comprised of the most surreal architecture and glorious gardens dreamed up by the Catalonian architect Gaudi at the start of the 1900s – a truly unique experience!

Las Ramblas is a 1.3km promenade that starts in the centre of Barcelona and stretches almost all the way to the sea. Along it you will find some of the best street performers in the world; the freshest local produce to enjoy either at the market or one of the many tapas bars nearby; and you’ll also find plenty of amazing boutiques to indulge in some retail therapy as well as museums a-plenty to explore.

La Sagrada Familia is the pinnacle of Gaudi’s expressive style, a Basilica that is so ambitious in its architecture that almost 100 years later it is still not completely finished. This incredible building is a reminder to look up wherever you go in Barcelona to truly appreciate the wonderful architecture.

Where to shop

  • For leather bags, belts and other accessories head to Beatriz Furest – the colourful collections are designed and produced in Barcelona.
  • Spanish jewellery designer Helena Rhoner has a boutique in Barcelona – the organic designs combine silver, ceramics, wood and glass.
  • For internationally renowned brands head to Passeig de Gracia, here you’ll find affordable fashion from the likes of Mango and Zara as well as high end Chanel, Hermes and Spanish luxury fashion house LOEWE.

What to eat

Tapas, tapas and more tapas! Be sure to indulge in Patatas Bravas, twice-fried potatoes with a spicy garlicy lemony dipping sauce. Paella – the seafood option is a firm favourite thanks to fresh local ingredients;  and Gazpacho, a cooling soup-like  appetiser made with extra-ripe tomatoes. La Boqueria Market is an absolute must – this is where everyone in Barcelona goes to buy the freshest local produce, and there are plenty of places to eat while you are there!

Love a mini break? Get yourself Annual Multi-Trip Travel Insurance, the perfect policy for the frequent traveller, especially if you like to book last-minute holidays and trips overseas.

 

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest Spa Break Image

Image by javiru CC0

Spa breaks don’t come much better than Budapest – after all it is the spa capital of the world! It is also a beautiful city rich in culture and varied in architectural style. At the end of March the weather is picking up, making the outdoor spas even more enticing.

What to see

Szécheny thermal baths in Budapest is a vast complex of indoor and outdoor thermal pools, 16 in total – no wonder it is the most famous of all the spas here! The neo-Baroque and neo-Renaissance backdrop give an opulent feel, and it’s known for “sparties” when pop-up bars appear around the pools at night!

Parliament Building is an other must-do, both day and night, inside and out. It is located on the banks of the beautiful Danube River, and is set in gorgeous surroundings. The neo-Gothic architecture, frescoes, stained glass, sculptures and statues are nothing short of spectacular.

The subterranean world of Budapest offers a chance to explore a whole new world. There are many caves to choose from, our top tips are Pálvölgyi caves, well known for stalactites and Szemlőhegyi Cave which is lined with dazzling crystals.

Where to shop

  • Paloma Design Emporium  is a beautiful arcaded courtyard which houses a range of local designer boutiques selling clothes and accessories.
  • Váci Utca is the main shopping street in Budapest. Here you’ll find High Street favourites Zara, H&M, Mango and the like. It’s also home to plenty of cafes and eateries, and becuas eit is pedestrianised a lovely place to stop to refuel.
  • Ecseri Market at Naszód Utca is the place to be for superb flea-market finds and vintage treasure hunting. Allow a good couple of hours to visit as it is huge!

What to eat

Lángos is a classic Hungarian snack – a deep fried flatbread served warm with garlic butter and sour cream, and sometimes grated cheese and sausage too. No trip to Budapest would be complete without trying Goulash, a hearty stew flavoured with paprika and served with fresh bread, dumplings or pasta. When the weather warms up a popular dish is cold fruit soup – often eaten as a starter or appetiser. They are refreshing and light, the most popular is sour cherries with sour cream.

 

Florence, Italy

Florence Mothers Day City Break Image

Image by 12019 CC0

If renaissance art and architecture is your thing then Florence is THE place to be for a Mother’s Day City Break, and March is a lovely time to visit. It may be a bit drizzly, but there are far fewer crowds than summer and who minds a spot of rain when in a gallery anyway!

What to see

Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and Piazza Duomo – a jaw-droppingly impressive complex of buildings that are home to masterpieces by the greatest Renaissance artists including Michelangelo, Donatello and Giotto. A visual delight inside and out.

Academy Gallery has the original David by Michaelangelo, along with numerous other works by the great man himself. The gallery is also the place to go to view works by 13th to 16th century Florentine artists, Botticelli’s Madonna is one amazing highlight here!

Palazzo Vecchio offers free tours showcasing the multiple eras of archaeology, architecture, and art that Florence is known for as well as an abundance of secret passages tied into the long history of the building.  Your free tour ticket also gets you a second entry for a rooftop sunset experience you won’t want to miss.

Where to shop

  • Via de Tornabuoni is regarded as the place to be for luxury shopping in Florence, home to top designer fashion houses. Famous Italian designers Bulgari and Bergamo can be found here along with the likes of Gucci. If big spending is not your thing, it is still well worth a visit to window-shop and soak up the elegance of the architecture.
  • Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella is as grand a place to shop as its name implies! This herbal pharmacy and perfumery is housed in a stunning frescoed chapel that has been it’s home since 1221. An olfactory and visual feast for the senses is guaranteed!
  • If bagging a bargain at a local market is more your vibe, head to Mercato delle Cascine, essentially an open-air department store. You won’t find any designer clobber, but plenty of high quality clothes, accessories and household goods you’ll want to take home.

What to eat

Tagliatelle funghi porcini e tartufo is a simple yet delicious dish found throughout  the city. Long flat pasta tossed in truffle and porcini mushrooms, both of which are found locally. A popular cold dish is Tagliere, a meat and cheese platter that goes down a treat with Tuscan bread and honey! Handmade Gelato from Florence is likely the best you’ll ever taste – and when hitting up the pistachio flavour, you know you have the real deal if it is closer to brown in colour – avoid bright green!

 

Love a mini break? Get yourself Annual Multi-Trip Travel Insurance, the perfect policy for the frequent traveller, especially if you like to book last-minute holidays and trips overseas.

Posted in Destination Guide | Comments Off on Mother’s Day European City Break Ideas

Destination Guide – Abu Dhabi, UAE

Posted on February 22, 2022 by worldwideinsure

Dubai used to be the place to be on a trip to the United Arab Emirates, but all the cool cats are heading to a city with a little more slick, the capital city, Abu Dhabi. It’s less touristy, more authentic, and at the same time has some of the best visitor attractions in the Emirates. Oh, and it is named as one of the safest cities in the world!

Abu Dhabi Single Trip Travel Insurance Image

Image by Makalu CC0

Best Time To Go

February is the best time to visit this incredible city. Why? Because the weather is “just right”, go any other time and you are at risk of it being too hot or too cold to enjoy everything there is to offer – comfortably at least! It’s a comfortable 25 °C during the day with lows of 16°C during the night. This means that you can visit the beach, go shopping and tour the local attractions in comfort in the day and it is also still warm enough to enjoy an overnight desert safari, complete with star-gazing.

Things to do in Abu Dhabi

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

A true wonder of the modern world, a stunning marble marvel, studded with gemstones that will fill you with awe. This is considered the most beautiful mosque in the whole of the United Arab Emirates, and visitors of any faith are welcome on the cultural tours so long as they come appropriately dressed and behave respectfully.

UAE Mosque Travel Insurance Image

Image by jpeter2 CC0

Emirates Palace

It’s actually a hotel, the most opulent, extravagant, luxurious hotel in the world, fitting of it’s name. If you aren’t staying here, don’t fear, tourists are welcome to come see, experience and take snaps of this sublime setting.

Emirates Travel Insurance Image

Image by batavia60510 CC0

Fossil Dunes

Other worldly petrified stone formations which have had a starring role in blockbuster movie Star Wars: The Force Awakens. The surreal and fascinating structures at Al Wathba are a wonderful photo opportunity and should be on the list of anyone who likes to wield a camera. Sunset is said to be the best time to go purely to witness the spectacular colours.

Abu Dhabi Adventure Travel Insurance Image

Image by richphotographix CC0

Camel Racing

If you head to Abu Dhabi in February you will catch the tail end of camel racing season, and the track at Al Wathba is one of the main courses out of fifteen across the UAE. It’s a spectacular and seemingly surprising highlight of a trip to this part of the world, and a fitting way to soak up the Emirati heritage.

UAE Adventure Sports Travel Insurance Image

Image by Jonny_Joka CC0

 

 Ferrari World Theme Park

Ride the fastest roller coaster in the world, if you can stomach it! Formula Rosa accelerates to 149mph in less than 5 seconds, a real-life F1 experience. Sound a bit much? Why not try the Ferrari simulator and discover what it’s like to take to normal roads in a supercar instead!

Travel Safety in Abu Dhabi

As we mentioned, Abu Dhabi is considered one of the safest cities in the world, but there are still things you should be aware of.

The risk of an accident happening while you are on the road is classed as medium – tips include to pack plenty of water, avoid going “off road” and make sure your vehicle is well equipped. You may want to consider purchasing Car Hire Excess Insurance, an alternative to having to pay for a costly Collision Damage Waiver policy from the car hire rental firm. Our policy replaces the CDW at a much lower price AND covers the damage to any part of the vehicle – often CDWs won’t cover windscreens, tyres and underbody.

Petty crime risks are low, as are scams and any danger from a natural disaster. Criminals are highly unlikely to target tourists, but terrorists do continue to make threats, making risk from their actions a medium threat level. Make sure you are aware of your surroundings at all times, and purchase annual multi trip travel insurance or single trip travel insurance which can cover you in a crisis.

 

Posted in Annual Multi-trip Insurance, Car Hire Excess Insurance, Destination Guide, Longstay Travel Insurance, Single Trip Travel Insurance, Travel Advice | Comments Off on Destination Guide – Abu Dhabi, UAE

How To Plan A Longstay Trip: 8 Top Tips

Posted on February 18, 2022 by worldwideinsure

The way we travel may be changing. Rather than hop on a flight for a quick EU city break, or even a two week holiday somewhere more remote, some travellers are looking to a longstay adventure. Whether the opportunity comes from taking a Gap Year, being on Sabbatical, or come from the perks of being a digital nomad who can work from ANY home – here’s what you should consider when planning a Longstay Trip.

Longstay Travel Insurance Image

Image by Skitterphoto CC0

1. Set Your Budget

Yep, sorry to squash your romantic hopes and dreams of worldwide travel, but if you’re going to travel for an extended period of time you want to know what you can afford and where you want to prioritise your spending. How much do you have to spend and how much are you willing to spend? Get this down on paper first!

2. Make a “bucket list”

Make a list of places you want to go and things you want to see and do, and then prioritise them. Are any a non-negotiable? Are some a “that would be nice”, but there are other places I’d rather go… Are any of the things A) Only feasible at a certain time of year B) Close to another destination which you could tag on as part of that leg of the trip.

3. Do your research!

Trawl every corner of the internet to find out how much it costs to stay in each place on your list and what it costs to do the activities in those places on your list. Include costs of transfers, visas and permits – it’s not just about cheap flights – and consider alternative forms of transport and accommodation such as sleeper trains, car share, and couch surfing. You’ll soon see that some countries are waaaaay cheaper than others to visit. The results of your research will either have you revisiting your list to re-prioritise where you want to go and what you want to do, or revisit it to change the type of place you’ll stay and how long you might stay there.

4. Check the visa requirements for each country

You may need to show that you have booked an outbound ticket, or that you have had certain vaccinations to get in. Some countries require special permits for long term travellers and there are restrictions on length of stay in places that could affect your itinerary.

Top tip – consider renewing your passport so you have plenty of time left, making it unlikely that you’ll be refused entry, and consider getting one with more pages so there is somewhere for all those visas and permits to go.

5. Get Longstay Travel insurance – and get add-ons for activities

At worldwideinsure.com we:

  • Understand that longstay travel carries different risks to shorter holidays, often involving a number of flights and less pre-booked accommodation. Inadequate cover can ruin your plans and force you to return home early.
  • Offer greater flexibility for extending insurance during your trip and adding cover for activities as you go.
  • Include 24hr multi-lingual emergency helpline and high levels of cover for medical treatment.
  • Provide cover that protects from theft or loss of personal baggage; a delayed departure; a missed flight – or having to cancel your trip altogether.
  • Offer cover for a wide range of sports and activities.

 6. Get to a doctor

Vaccinations may be needed, maybe you require a prescription for medication to last a few months, such as the contraceptive pill. You may also want to have a quick MOT to make sure that no medical surprises are lurking.

7. Pack wisely

Pack three of each thing, so you have one to wear, one in the wash and one drying. A sarong is a great multipurpose accessory, pack three of these too. A sarong can be used as a curtain, a towel, a blanket, a scarf, a skirt, a bag and even a pair of shorts or a shirt. It can also be used as a sling and a bandage, and… well, we have already shared a blog on this: 30 Ways to Use a Sarong. Take a look!

8. Stick to your budget

The final piece of advice is working out a way to stick to the budget you have set yourself for your extended adventure. Many people make a daily and weekly tally of what has been spent on accommodation, food, drink, travel, and activities and adjust the next week if they have gone over budget. You may also find that you are spending on something you can do without such as that extra cup of coffee or ice cream. It all mounts up!

All information regarding longstay travel insurance was correct at time of publishing – this information may change – please see worldwideinsure.com for up-to-date policy information.

Posted in Longstay Travel Insurance, Travel Advice, Travel Tips | Comments Off on How To Plan A Longstay Trip: 8 Top Tips

Most Romantic Holiday Destinations In The World

Posted on February 11, 2022 by worldwideinsure

Where in the world would you like to spend time with your loved one? We’ve picked what we think are the best places in the world to enjoy a romantic holiday for two.

Istanbul

Istanbul Travel Insurance Image

Image by Alpcem CC0

Blessed with spectacular beaches, azure seas, beautiful architecture, and breathtaking landscapes Istanbul makes for a wonderfully romantic destination. In fact it is one of the top honeymoon destinations for couples.

Take time out in a Hammam, a Turkish bath house. This is a must for every couple, time well spent in a spa! Do be mindful of the sort of service that you book in for as the traditional style experience may not  have the romantic edge you are looking for – it starts with a rather vigorous scrub from an attendant. Other styles offer aromatherapy massages, reflexology and facials.

Venice

Venice Travel Insurance

Image by blende12 CC0

The home of Casanova, a legendary lover, adventurer and author… what better place to indulge in a romantic mood with your loved one! Venice is top of the list when it comes to romantic getaways, and it seems like the whole place was built for an amorous  escape.

Seek out a sumptuous sunset gondola ride for two. It is likely to be the most memorable romantic time of your lives. Over the course of 30 minutes your Gondolier will take your on a stunning tour of the Venice waterways where the colourful city streets and glistening water come alive with the colourful hues of a Venetian sunset.

Santorini

Greek Islands Travel Insurance Image

Image by 5StarsDay CC0

This Greek island is known as the Island of Love thanks to its extraordinary natural beauty and iconic architecture. Couple this with sun, sea, and the oldest – and dare we say best – wineries in the world and you have a recipe for a deliciously romantic destination.

Indulge in a sunset winery tour. Santorini is well know for epic sunsets, and a half day winery tour with a tapas supper is the perfect buildup to a romantic sundown. Visiting up to four local wineries you’ll get to soak up some of those sweet vistas in between tastings, before heading to the best spot to watch the sun dip into the Aegean sea.

Bora Bora

Bora Bora Travel Insurance Image

Image by Julius_Silver CC0

Isolation and volcanic beauty have led to this luxuriously dreamy destination to be known as Romantic Island. The overwater bungalows in the incredible turquoise lagoon are a homing beacon for honeymooners and lovebirds alike; and the white sandy beaches are the iconic  desert island dream come true.

Splash out on a couples experience at Bora Bora spa in Four Seasons resort. The couples overwater spa suite has an outdoor bath, exotic paradise vistas of Mount Otemanu and even the treatment beds come with views as they sit on glass panels over the lagoon. Signature Spa Rituals are inspired by the Polynesian concept of Taurumi, meaning health in hands, where a deep understanding of touch brings balance to body and mind. 

Patagonia

Patagonia Travel Insurance Image

Image by jmarti20 CC0

The geographical beauty of such an extreme landscape is what brings Patagonia to our list of most romantic places to head to in the world. The rugged wild landscapes with blue rivers, snow capped mountains and waterfalls are breathtakingly beautiful, filling visitors with awe and wonder – an extraordinary experience for any couple.

Get yourselves on a glacier sightseeing boat tour to get a real sense of the beauty of Patagonia.  The most impressive sights can only be accessed from the water by boat, an experience that will fill you both with an overwhelming sense of adventure as you are immersed in nature and the primal power of the natural world.

 

Don’t forget your travel insurance! We offer excellent cover for all kinds of adventures and activities all over the world!

Posted in Destination Guide, Travel Advice | Comments Off on Most Romantic Holiday Destinations In The World

Destination Staycation – UK Holiday Hot Spots For Winter Retreats

Posted on January 28, 2022 by worldwideinsure

Forget long waits, unexpected delays, cancellations and expensive pre-travel tests – hire a car and enjoy a UK Staycation at one of these delightful winter destinations…

Scottish Highlands

Scotland Car Hire Excess Insurance Image

Image by greid64 CC0

 

Once you get past Edinburgh and Glasgow and into the Highlands it feels like you are in another world. The vistas are jaw-dropping and appear greater around every turn. The acres upon acres of unspoilt countryside seems never-ending. The Scottish Highlands are however far from an empty space – here you will find a wealth of outdoor adventures. Hiking, bagging a Munro, mountain biking, kayaking, even skiing and ice-climbing are on the agenda. There are also plenty of attractions with country houses, castles and visitor centres and tours available to those who can tear themselves away from the roaring fire of the hotel, country inn, or Airbnb!

Dartmoor Devon

UK Car Hire Excess Insurance Image

Image by BlackDog1966 CC0

Dartmoor is all about the epic walks but did you know that it is the place to be for star gazing? The long dark nights of winter are perfect for this, and even more magical on a clear and frosty night!  Getting to a remote spot is no bother if you’ve got the right hire vehicle – be sure to pack a warming night time picnic and some blankets to keep you warm. Another magical place to head for is Wistmans Wood, an ancient Dwarf-Oak forest that inspire

Don’t forget your Car Hire Excess Insurance!

Why pay a rental firm’s costly damage waiver when you can pay less for what is usually even better protection? If your rental car is damaged you will usually be liable to pay for repairs even if the damage was not your fault. Our Car Hire Excess Insurance replaces the Collision Damage Waiver at a much lower price AND covers the damage to any part of the vehicle – often CDWs won’t cover windscreens, tyres and underbody.

Yorkshire Dales

Car Hire Excess Insurance

Image by TimHill CC0

You are almost guaranteed a white winter if you head to the Yorkshire Dales, and what a place to witness it! The views are stunning and you better pack your walking boots because rambles, hikes and walks is what this area does best. It really is the place to choose if you want to get away from it all, disconnect and do a digital detox. There are probably as many country pubs with a warm and welcoming fire as there are walks in the dales, so get a map, and get exploring!

Brecon Beacons

Brecon Beacons Car Hire Excess Insurance Image

Image by ID 12019 CC0

Our top pick for a rural adventure in Wales is the Brecon Beacons. Like our other rural retreat hotspots Brecon Beacons offers amazing opportunities for amazing outdoor adventures, dark skies are perfect for star-gazing, and the views are just stunning. There are over 1,200 miles of public rights of way in the Beacons. Rock climbing, abseiling, fishing, cycling, bushcraft, foraging, horse riding and gliding are all on offer for those who like the great outdoors. Or maybe you just fancy snuggling up and appreciating the great views from the comfort of your holiday accommodation.

 

 

Posted in Car Hire Excess Insurance, Destination Guide | Comments Off on Destination Staycation – UK Holiday Hot Spots For Winter Retreats

Tiny Covid Travel Tips For Travelling Safely in 2022

Posted on January 21, 2022 by worldwideinsure

The travel world went a bit wonky for a while, but things are getting back to normal. People are heading by plane, train, boat, bus… two wheels, four wheels, and who knows maybe even more wheels across the globe once more. As such we thought it was time to share some updated travel tips, including covid and travel insurance with the mantra “hands, face, space” in mind.

Covid Travel Safety Tips

Image by bluehouseskis CC0

 

  1. Visit during the shoulder seasons – This is the magic space between high seasons where prices are lower, but things are generally hotting up, cooling down, or drying out to near-ideal conditions for visiting. The other plus side is that there are far fewer people than you’d get during the peak times, making it easier to keep your distance and enjoy the vistas and attractions more safely.

 

  1. Consider a road trip and hire a camper – Van life was gaining popularity before travel got difficult, but now the idea of being in your own little road-trip bubble is more appealing than ever. Whether you plan to go off the beaten track and avoid people as much as possible or you plan to go check out some tourist hot-spots, having your own contained living space to take wherever you go is a big bonus! Check out our top tips for the ultimate road trip!

Don’t forget your Camper Van Hire Excess Insurance!

Don’t let worries about accident, damage or theft of the vehicle spoil your holiday. Avoid costly collision damage waiver policies from your rental firm with a much more affordable excess cover with our International Motorhome Hire Excess Insurance through Worldwide Insure!

 

  1. Plan a flexible itinerary – As we discovered during the past 18 months, things can change pretty quickly, so plan a flexible itinerary to give you options if restrictions suddenly come in. It could be as simple as having a bunch of hikes you’d like to do if attractions are shut, or if budget allows alternative destinations where things look a little more rosy.

 

  1. Choose outdoor activities and attractions – Rubbing shoulders indoors with a whole host of strangers that may have travelled from all over the globe may seem a little risky in the current climate, especially if you are travelling during high season. Advice is to keep your time in such spaces to a minimum, so choose a destination where outdoor activities and attractions are plentiful, or aim to keep your focus on sightseeing rather than visiting museums and galleries and the like.

 

  1. Dine Al Fresco – Even the coldest and wettest destinations are primed for folks that would rather keep their dining outside. All that fresh air and space is just the ticket for staying fit and healthy on your holiday!

 

Don’t forget these travel essentials:

  • Reusable straws – that way you know exactly what’s touching your lips when you have a drink.
  • Masks – the rules are always changing but take enough to last the whole of your holiday just in case.
  • Hand sanitiser – no need to handle the same dispenser as everyone else whenever you walk through a door.
  • Sanitising wipes – handy for wiping down touch-points when you arrive at your hotel or holiday apartment.
  • Covid Travel Insurance – A new(ish) addition to our travel insurance policies that can help protect against the unexpected when it comes to Coronavirus and travel. Cover varies depending on policy type, so please refer to the information provided when you obtain an online quote.

 

 

Posted in Travel Advice | Comments Off on Tiny Covid Travel Tips For Travelling Safely in 2022

12 Month Travel Bucket List – A Dream Adventure Itinerary

Posted on January 14, 2022 by worldwideinsure

While 2022 is getting off to a great start, we have our eyes set to 2023 and all the wonderful adventures we can hope to go on. Here’s a dreamy month-by-month list of love-to-dos to look forward to!

January –  Antarctica To See Penguin Chicks

Summer is in full swing at this time of year with a blissful 20 hours of daylight to illuminate your explorations. The summer season is also when the ice retreats exposing rock that makes the perfect playground for penguin chicks. The safest and most eco-friendly way to enjoy this adventure is as part of a polar expedition – there are a number of reputable operators to choose from.

Antarctica Travel Insurance Image

Image by MemoryCatcher CC0

February – Abu Dhabi To Experience It Without Melting In Unbearable Heat

Enjoy the Goldilocks effect in full swing and visit this awesome city at a time when the weather is “just right”. It’s warm enough to enjoy time at the beach and cool enough to explore all the attractions without relying on air-con.

Abu Dhabi Travel Insurance Image

Image by Nike159 CC0

March – Nepal To Sleep At Everest Basecamp

The views in March in Nepal are picture-perfect. The weather is usually clear and rainfall is minimal. The days are also long, meaning more hiking hours to take in those gorgeous views and to enjoy the 14 day trek to basecamp.

Nepal Travel Insurance Image

Image by trilemedia CC0

 

April – Japan To Experience The Cherry Blossom Festival

The festivals actually take place from January to May depending on where in Japan you are – the time the blossom appears varies from region to region. Be mindful not to travel during Golden Week when the whole of the country is on the move enjoying all the attractions and and the many bank holiday festivities – unless you like extra high prices and lots of queueing!

Japan UK Travel Insurance Image

Image by nguyendinhson067 CC0

 

May – USA To Kayak The Grand Canyon

No bucket list travel itinerary would be complete without a mention of this great wonder of the world. Clear skies and high temperatures make this the best time of year to take to the water in the Grand Canyon, it’s only 10 degrees! Should you take an unexpected dip, which you are quite likely to do, at least you’ll warm up fast once you are out.

Grand Canyon Kayak UK Travel Insurance Image

Image by KeYang CC0

 

June – Peru To Visit Machu Picchu

This is the driest time of the year to experience Peru’s interior – exactly what you want if you’re going to trek or venture to Machu Picchu. It’s officially the start of winter but you can expect temperatures to be a comfortable 20 degrees C during the day, but be prepared for chilly nights.

Machu Picchu UK Travel Insurance Image

Image by – ID 4758892 CC0

 

Don’t forget your travel insurance! Who knows what might happen on the trip of your dreams. It could be as minor as your baggage getting held up, or a flight being delayed, but it could also be something a lot more serious with the potential to turn the holiday of a lifetime into an expensive trip doing the worst kind of admin. Travel insurance can take that burden away – get in touch to find out what kind of cover suits your needs and your budget the best.

 

July – Switzerland To Enjoy An Alpine Summer

The shoulder season in Switzerland is a dream, with the start of July being as warm as it’s likely to get without all the crowds of high season. The mountain scenery at this time is at its best with jaw-dropping and unforgettable views. Be warned, if you leave your trip until the end of the month it’s likely to get expensive as well as a lot more busy.

Alps UK Travel Insurance Image

Image by Sonyuser CC0

August – Santorini To Experience A Summer in Full Swing

Hot weather, warm seas, the best beach breaks and a vibrant nightlife are the hallmarks of a Santorini Summer in August. It is also the busiest time to visit – but if you are prepared to brave the crowds and take this delectable destination in your stride, you’ll have a great time.

EU Travel Insurance Image

Image by nextvoyage CC0

September – Morocco To Sleep Under The Stars in the Sahara Desert

Avoid sandstorms, freezing temperatures, and believe it or not – the chance of flash floods by visiting the Sahara Desert in September. This is the tail end of the season when it is still warm enough to sleep outside but has the perfect conditions for star-gazing.

Sahara Travel Image

Image by pixelRaw CC0

October – Fiji To Celebrate Fiji-Day

The shoulder season is about to end, prices are still low and the temperatures are starting to rise… and all before cyclones and rain could stop play. Go at the start of the month to discover a whole week of celebration of Fijian and Indo-Fijian diversity that reaches a crescendo on October 10th aka Fiji Day!

Fiji Travel Image

Image by fleglsebastian7 CC0

November – Iceland To See The Northern Lights

At this time of year not only is the Aurora Borealis at its most active, but the skies are at their darkest and clearest – the perfect combination for viewing the most spectacular light show on the planet! There are some other great locations you might want to consider – check out our blog about Best Northern Lights Destinations.

Iceland Northern Lights Travel Image

Image by ID 12019 CC0

December – New Zealand To Visit The Fjords at Milford Sound

It may be the middle of the peak-season, but it means that the rains that this part of the world is known for – and the reason why the vistas are so spectacular – are less likely to make an appearance and obscure the picture-perfect views!

New Zealand Fjords Image

Image by Julius_Silver CC0

Posted in Destination Guide, Uncategorized | Comments Off on 12 Month Travel Bucket List – A Dream Adventure Itinerary

Take Me To The Sunshine: Destination Barbados

Posted on December 17, 2021 by worldwideinsure

What better time than the mid-winter solstice to let our minds wander to thoughts of a hot sunny beach holiday to beat those winter blues. We are thinking blue skies, white sands, crystal clear seas and weather so hot you’ll want to be in the shade. Barbados anyone?

Barbados Travel insurance Image

Image by PublicDomainPictures CC0

Why Barbados?

It has over 70 miles of stunning beaches, arguably the best in the Caribbean, and you can choose where to go by deciding whether you want to swim, surf, paddle board, snorkel… you get the picture. The weather is a delight and the laidback vibe is made for relaxing – in the daytime! By night you’ll soon discover that this is when the island wakes up, and there is much fun to be had!

Where to Stay

The island is small, approx 32km by 25km, but you still might like to base yourself near the type of beach that fits your preferred activity. The west coast is a bit more expensive but has a calm sea so good for swimming and snorkelling, the east coast is the place to be for surfing and the generally more rugged terrain will appeal to hikers too.

What to Do

Island Tour: A five hour feast for the eyes, (and the belly!) where you can experience the people, culture and history of Barbados. Stops include taking in the beautiful architecture of  Speightstown, a visit to the Animal Flower Cave, Bridgetown, the Platinum Coast and the Garrison – a world heritage site. Expect to be offered rum and banana bread as well as delicious traditional cuisine for lunch.

Snorkelling: For most of the year visibility is between 40 and 70 feet, making it the perfect place to explore the water’s wildlife and shipwrecks! The best spots are within the two marine parks. You may well be able to spot seahorses, turtles, parrotfish, grouper, squid and nurse sharks.

Barbados Snorkelling Turtle Image

Image by MarcelloRabozzi CC0

Rum Tasting: Barbados is considered the birthplace of rum, and The Mount Gay Rum Tour is well recommended. The distillery was founded over 300 years ago so home to the world’s oldest rum. It’s not the only rum tour on offer though, check out St Nicholas Abbey, Foursquare Rum and Heritage Park and the West Indies Rum Distillery if you are really serious about your spirits.

Food and Drink: We’ve covered rum, but for something a little less potent try mauby – a favourite amongst locals. It’s made from mauby bark and is delicious with ice and a slice of lemon on a hot day. It’s quite a tonic, said to alleviate symptoms of arthritis, reduce cholesterol and treat diarrhoea. The national dish is Flying Fish with a side of cou cou (cornmeal cooked with okra). If meat is off the menu, check the roti options – available with a wide variety of fillings all over the island.

Barbados Rum Shack Image

Image by debbiepughjones0 CC0

Good to Know

  • The best time to go is January through to March when temperatures average 29°C.
  • The tap water is safe to drink.
  • In Barbados they drive on the left.
  • Although the island is considered safe, it is wise to have your wits about you when visiting the capital Bridgetown, just as you would in any city, as petty crime is a reality even in paradise; a good reason to make sure you get your travel insurance!

Barbados Travel Insurance: Longstay, multitrip  or single trip, either way you’ll find that our Travel Insurance fits the bill for what you want to do abroad. Annual Multi-trip covers any number of trips in a year, and covers travellers up to the age of 74, as well as business trips and families. Single Trip will cover you for up to 94 days of adventure, if you are going for longer – check out the longstay which covers overseas adventures that last from 3 to 18 months.

Posted in Destination Guide | Comments Off on Take Me To The Sunshine: Destination Barbados