Travel insurance is no exception. Unless you are adept at taking advantage of a system that is less than perfect, you are sure to pay a lot to get anything out of the package. Sometimes you might plan to get all across quite a little and end up being grounded within borders all year round. Nothing wrong with that, unless you had bought a travel insurance policy that was meant to guard you all the way out to Tahiti. Tough luck.

Travel insurance can be considered to be a time dependent package if you so desire. If you took out a policy designed to account only for the duration of your present travel, it would do just. You are better off in this instance paying for travel insurance for the whole year.

The package is meant for people who fear that accidents abroad could happen on their journey that they might not be prepared for.

Whether travel insurance is extensive or not is up to you, based along the way that you view the deal. For the most part though, you will agree that insurance, travel or otherwise, is never cheap.

Cruiselines or journey operators can make such on offer to virtually with the snap of a finger.

Do not let uncertainty, cynicism, or skepticism keep you from doing what’s best for you. Even if you don’t feel like travel insurance is suitable for you, please to not travel without 1. Even if you’ll return to declare how useless it was to have 1, it is still wise of you to stay safe for the whole duration of your journey.

If you are in search of travel insurance that is less inclusive than what an actual travel insurance corporation will offer you, look to a travel agency.

Travel insurance companies are about the best places where you may lay your hands on a policy to last you for the whole of a year. Other insurance stop shops are travel agents and travel suppliers, however these are only good for individual trips. Know where you are headed before you take the step.

The natural setting is stunning; the island’s history spine tingling. But where on your visit to North Cyprus will you stay? Whether you elect to base yourself in the quaint harbour town of Kyrenia (Girne), with its magnificent fortified castle, or in one of the many other towns, villages or coastal resorts, independent reviews about North Cyprus Hotels are probably your best starting point. As the reviews are direct experiences of others, they will help you to get a real feel for what accommodation is like in North Cyprus, allowing you to match it to your needs.

North Cyprus geography
Of course, to get the best out of any independent hotel reviews an appreciation of the island’s geography is useful. Ercan International airport – the only airport on the island – is situated close to the capital city of Nicosia, through which the Green Line runs separating the country from South Cyprus. Nicosia is about as far away from the sea as you can get in North Cyprus. If you wish to spend time exploring the city and the island’s interior, a hotel in Nicosia makes a good base.

North of Nicosia the Kyrenia Mountain Range rises like a rocky curtain, dividing the capital from the coastline. From the northern slopes of the mountain range the island’s true coastal beauty is revealed – many visitors choose to stay in hotels with sea views along this coastline.

The quiet harbour town of Kyrenia is a popular destination. Its atmospheric blend of traditional and contemporary Cyprus tends to attract a sophisticated crowd. Quieter and more rural spots are found out along the coastline towards Lapta to the West and Esentepe to the East. Quieter and more rural still is the southwest of the island, around Guzelyurt Bay. If you’re looking for the ultimate in peace and tranquillity however, you’ll do little better than making your own personal discovery of the stunning Karpaz Peninsula.

1. Residential building in La Giudecca

In stark contrast to the more traditional Venetian housing with their rustic facades, this new residential building on the island of La Guidecca makes a somewhat refreshing change. Created by Cino Zucchi Architects, it replaces an existing building between two canals, forming part of a larger urban plan around the city. As a nod to typical Venetian architecture however, traditional materials and techniques have been used, with the white Istria stone cornice bordering the windows to create a ‘graphic’ motif.

2. Swiss Pavilion for the Venice Biennale

The Swiss Pavilion was designed by competition winner, Bruno Giacometti at the Venice Biennale. Comprising of two main halls, the image below shows the larger hall which features a modern, metallic roof which allows light and shadow to be cast inside.

3. Sculpture Garden for the Venice Biennale

Originally designed in 1932 by Duilo Torres, the Sculpture Garden was created within a patio of the Italian Pavilion in 1952 by Carlo Scarpa. The project was designed to play with shadow, light and water, with three heavy, oval columns constructed to support a canopy roof. Having been recently restored, it breathes new light into a city of old.

4. A Gathering Space

Venice’s ‘gathering space’ sculpture was designed by Gareth Hoskins Architects in 2008 after winning a competition to create a standalone pavilion at 2008’s Venice Architecture Biennale. The structure stands at 7m high and features a partially cantilevered set of steps created entirely from Scottish larch, holding up to 200 people. Underneath, an enclosed area can facilitate up to another 100 people as a contemporary ‘gathering space’. Its minimalistic, modern shape makes a real impact on the more traditional surrounding area.

5. Nordic Countries Pavilion for the Venice Biennale

Norwegian competition winner, Sverre Fehn created the Nordic Countries Pavilion for the Venice Biennale, which was completed in 1962. Consisting of a 400sqm rectangular hall which is exposed on both sides, the roof combines two overlapping layers of concrete beams with tree trunks towering through. Designed to reflect the ‘disappearing transition between interior and exterior’, the construction has both aesthetic appeal and carries an artistic message.

For more information on the history, architecture and restaurants in Venice, check out these online travel guides.

Franz Josef and Fox Glacier on the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island provide the ultimate backdrop for the ultimate extreme sport: skydiving. This really is one of the most breathtaking places to take the plunge, offering panoramic views of glistening glaciers and snow capped peaks, including the tallest mountain in Australasia, Mts Cook. Lasting about 45 seconds, the freefall is an experience you’ll never forget, but it’s not until you’re gliding through the air on your parachute that you can fully appreciate the utter beauty of the natural surroundings.

If you like the sound of the scenery but jumping out of plane at 12,000 ft is just a little too daunting, why not have a go at ice-hiking through the glaciers themselves? Here you can discover cavernous crevices, gaping ice holes and ascend ice steps carved into the walls. But don’t be mistaken, the slippery conditions and at times terrifying altitude mean this is not an activity for the faint-hearted.

Skiing is another option thanks to New Zealand’s diverse climate and plethora of mountain peaks. While Queenstown is probably the most obvious choice for ski and snow-boarders, nearby Wanaka with its quaint, village-like feel, is also a great place to hit the slopes. Cardrona ski resort is an excellent choice for all skill-levels with great facilities.

Golf is another popular pastime in New Zealand, albeit a little less risky. If you’ve exhausted all the normal European hotspots then the North Island could be just the destination for you to indulge in a round or two. For the daring golfer, Kauri Cliffs golf resort in Matauri Bay will not disappoint. This immense championship course designed by David Harman boasts an incredible cliff top backdrop which has received worldwide acclaim.

For something slightly tamer, Cape Kidnappers in Hawke’s Bay is one of the most stunning golfing destinations in the South Pacific, boasting a challenging course broken up by vast gorges and gullies. The resort is also thoroughly secluded, being a twenty minute drive from the gates to the clubhouse alone. Designed by architect Tom Doak, the resort has gained status in golfing circles from hosting the prestigious Kiwi Challenge event.

Picture references:

1 – http://www.yourgolftravel.com/cape-kidnappers.html

2 - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:FJG64490029.jpg

Unfortunate as it may be, accidents will happen, and regrettably holidays are no different. We can plan and be as prepared as we want, but what happens should you fall ill or be injured unexpectedly abroad?

Nobody wants to spend their time away from the confines of a hotel room, or worse still, a hospital ward. Understandably once you have recovered you can be left feeling rightly aggrieved for the loss of your holiday; especially if the accident wasn’t your fault. Fortunately you could be entitled to receive compensation to help recover any financial losses and get you back on your feet following your injury. Advice is free and impartial, and with specialist solicitors on standby dedicated to helping you it may be worth contacting a no win no fee lawyer to find out what compensation you may be entitled to.

For families: Disneyworld, Florida

With children in tow, Disneyworld in Florida really is the ultimate destination for a kiddie-friendly New Year. Although the parks can get busy, the throngs of excited families only add to the buzzing atmosphere and the countless firework displays are a real treat for everyone. Of all the parks, don’t miss out on the spectacular Pleasure Island, which transforms into a magical street party bustling with food, music and entertainment.

For party-goers: Las Vegas

For all you party animals out there, the original Sin City is THE place to bring the New Year in with a bang. This unashamedly over-the-top gambler’s paradise is the perfect place for a decadent 2010 celebration thanks to the countless casinos, restaurants and live shows that line the Strip. Unsurprisingly, the festivities are not a subtle affair – you can expect to enjoy dramatic firework displays and throngs of lively crowds looking for a night to remember. The Loews Lake Las Vegas Resort is a great place to retreat to after a long night of debauchery.

For couples: Paris

If you’re planning to spend the new year with your loved one this year, you’ll be looking for somewhere a little more romantic and intimate than your typical party-going destination. And where else but gay Paris? The City of Light comes alive every new year with twinkling lights and people in the mood for love. Grab the champagne and kick off the festivities at the Champs Elysées - from there, follow the happy crowds to the spectacular Arc de Triomphe for the stroke of midnight. Don’t forget the mistletoe!

For friends: New York

If you’re planning on a New Year celebration with friends, make like Rachel, Ross and co and jet to the Big Apple. This really is the ultimate New Year destination - the Times Square ball drop has become synonymous with New Years Eve the world over. If you are planning on heading to Times Square, get there early – the place gets jammed by midnight but is well worth it if you want to experience New York at its most exciting.

For oldies: Berlin

Even if your party days are over, that does not mean you have to leave the New Year festivities to the youngsters. Berlin is an excellent choice for those who want to celebrate with civilized folk and absorb the fascinating history of this beautiful city. The best place to head is the Brandenburg Gate – a significant symbol of German history which really comes to life at midnight. Be prepared for the cold though – Berlin gets a little nippy come New Year – so huddle together and give your vocal chords a wake-up with old favourite, Auld Lang Syne. Happy New Year!

If that’s not enough to whet your appetite, click here for more New Year travel guides