Health check
Got the travellers' cheques, the guide book and the sun hat. And, maybe, you pack something for a gippy tummy. But how many of us find out what health precautions we should take before we travel? The first UK NHS website, www.fitfortravel.scot.nhs.uk provides information on travel-related diseases and how to avoid them.
Separate breaks
Two-thirds of women taking a holiday last year gave getting away from their partners or family as the main reason. The survey of 15- to 65-year-olds across Britain by NOP for insurers Directline.com showed that, in the future, men and women may be holidaying separately - men in outer space and women under the ocean. More than half of those questioned in the south, would choose a health/spa retreat as their ideal break, while northerners prefer to go on a luxury cruise and Midlanders search for romance. Women lead the Internet - 53% would choose to book their holiday online, compared with 47% of men.
Double attraction
Attractions from all over the country are taking part in a two-for-one ticket promotion. In London, for example, two adults visiting the National Maritime Museum and the Royal Observatory at Greenwich could save up to £10.50. A 241 pack containing a passcard and 32 tokens costs £2.29 including p&p. Order from www.241.co.uk or send a cheque, payable to CPS, for £2.29 to CPS, PO Box 241, Melton Mowbray, LE14 4ZH.
Women only
Gran Canaria's leading gay resort, Vista Bonita, will be open just for women between May 22-29. Sensations for Women (020 89000809) has launched women-only weeks throughout Europe. Prices for Vista Bonita start from £299 per person and include return flights from Gatwick, transfers, seven nights' self-catering accommodation, an information pack and a welcome barbecue. Greece, the Caribbean and Australia are also featured.
Tall order
The Tall Ships will spend five days in Boston this year and then race to Amsterdam, their final port of call. Having left from Southampton and Genoa, they arrive in Boston on July 11 for a five-day festival including parades and fireworks. Details on www. travel-america.co.uk and 020-7978 7429.
A feminine gait
Women who like to walk and talk with women should try www.walkingwomen.com and 01926 313321 for details of walking holidays in the Lake District. There are three grades of walks with variations to cater for all levels of fitness. Prices range from three nights in a youth hostel at £105 to £535 for seven nights in a country house hotel.
