HotelClub found that no matter what method you try - there is no universal answer to the best method for packing…roiling, scrunching, folding or ‘throw it in and hope for the best’ were just some of the methods we uncovered! It comes down to personal preference (and how big you suitcase is – within airline weight range)! HotelClub Concierge did find on his investigations that we try to pack too much into our suitcases! (We like to be prepared in case of emergencies!). Read the rest of Are you a folder, scruncher, roller or “throw it all in” packer? »

Comments: 0 Feb 28th, 2008
by Jennifer Crooks

There is an undeniable appeal to backpacking; the anticipation felt as you pack up, knowing you will get to your destination completely on your own steam. Planning an implementing a trip your way, the ability to change it at a whim, prolonging the trip or hurrying it based solely on your desires, that’s the life! The destinations are numerous and tempting but the whole idea can be an absolute flop if you don’t realize it still takes planning before the plunge. Read the rest of 9 Lifesavers for Backpackers: Planning Tips »

Comments: 1 Feb 26th, 2008
by Tahira Khan

Continuing with our recent theme of interesting hotel stories – horrors stories and room habits – HotelClub has compiled a list of some of the stranger requests customers ask for when making a booking. Obviously the majority of special requests we try to fulfill to the best of our ability, but some are over and above the usual requests such as “rooms with a view”, smoking preferences (although smoking rooms in hotels are becoming fewer with hotels becoming smoke-free), “high floor please”, accessible rooms for people with disabilities and baby cots to name just a few… Read the rest of Strange Hotel Room Requests »

Comments: 0 Feb 20th, 2008
by Jennifer Crooks

The majestic beauty of mountainous terrain can be humbling, insignificance against grandeur. If you have a pair of skis on, and the skill to use them, the sight will bring that same appreciation for beauty along with excitement and sheer adrenaline value. Combine the highest peaks with the most treacherous paths back down, and you will have found the perfect spot for anyone who wants to go beyond normal downhill skiing to extreme skiing. For daredevils everywhere, the idea is not in the least daunting, it’s a challenge they willingly take up, and luckily, there are ski resorts that cater to their fondest desires.
Read the rest of A Daredevil’s Summit of Ski Slopes »

Comments: 2 Feb 15th, 2008
by Tahira Khan

With Valentines Day only 2 days away, HotelClub.com took to the streets to see if love is still in the air? With orders for roses (red or any colour) keeping florists worldwide busy and trying to keep up with the demand (before stocks run out!), restaurant tables filling up with specially selected menus and hotels providing special packages for that one special night… it appears that our Valentines Day lovers are becoming losers… leaving their flower orders, hotel and restaurant bookings until the last minute. Read the rest of Valentines Day – Are you are lover or a loser? »

Comments: 0 Feb 12th, 2008
by Jennifer Crooks

There are few cities or cultures that can claim as much influence on the modern culture as the Romans or Italians do. Be it art, architecture, religion or opera, Rome has played a significant role in everything. So when it comes to a civilized meal Italian style, there are things to keep in mind for tourists when they head to a restaurant in Rome; ignoring some will get you raised eyebrows and others will earn you a look of pure pity for they might think you are recovering from a bump on the head. Read the rest of While in Rome…Eat as the Romans Do »

Comments: 2
by Tahira Khan

There is nothing like the thrill of white powder under your skis, the cold bite of the wind in your face as you fly down the side of a hill, using wits and skill to avoid anything on your path. For anyone living in a desert region however, this is not something obtainable, or is it?

Where once only desert existed, there now stands a man made ski resort. The outside of Ski Dubai may not be impressive, but when entering, the feeling of being in a much colder part of the world prevails, giving some who never had an opportunity to even see snow the chance to try their skills at skiing. With 5 different slopes, from beginners to expert, this indoor ski facility is quite impressive. Read the rest of Desert Skiing »

Comments: 2 Feb 5th, 2008
by Tahira Khan

A bustling city that was once a desert, Dubai has grown in a matter of four decades from a city in the middle of nowhere to an important business center of the world. One of the key events that led to Dubai’s growth as a tourist region and shoppers paradise is the foresight of their travel industry, that came up with a unique concept of holding a 32 day long shopping festival under the banner One world, One family, One festival, with vendors coming over to display their wares from across the globe.

Read the rest of One world, One family, One festival: Dubai Shopping Festival »

Comments: 2 Feb 4th, 2008
by Tahira Khan