jml Villas Holiday Homes

Fancy a self catering holiday in rural France in 2012?

2011-12-10T01:39:00.001-08:00

Discover Rural France by renting Maison Christine at Vayres in the Limousin region.

This charminh house sleeps up to 4 in 2 bedrooms, has 1 bathroom.

There are shops nearby, it is close to the river and there are restaurants nearby.

It is also close to an airport and a lake.

This 2 Bedroom House tcan be let from £400 per week, sleeps 4.1 double bedroom 1 twin bedroom, large comfortable lounge + kitchen /diner and Shower/toilet. It has 2 floors with stairs so is unsuitable for wheelchairs. The house does not have a garden but for children there is a play area nearby.

The house is in the village of Vayres situated close to the Ancient church. The village has two bakers, a butcher, a hairdresser and a post office.

It is 8km from the pretty town of Rochechouart where there are banks, quaint little shops, restaurants and bars. A car is recommended for this area unless by prior arrangement with owner local trips can be accomodated at a reasonable rate. The house has DVD players in two rooms, a hairdryer, fitted kitchen/diner area on ground floor.

Find out more at jmlvillas.com self catering holiday rentals Here

Self catering holiday rental Costa Blanca Spain - La Golondrina, Jalon

2011-12-06T08:54:00.001-08:00

A jmlvillas.com advertiser has just add this super property in the Costa Blanca, Spain.

It has three bedroom and sleeps up to 6. It is a split level south facing house set in mature gardens. Sleeps 6. Pets considered. 3 double bedrooms and 2 bathrooms.

Master bedroom has en suit bathroom and private balcony with stunning views. Modern, pristine villa, with spacious lounge and separate dining room and kitchen. Outside eating facilities and sunbathing area set in large well stocked gardens.

Jalon town is 2 km away via road or lovely walk through orange groves. Comprehensive supermarket and several bars , restaurant and shops in the town. There is a community pool set a short walk away. Several sandy, blue flag beaches are just 20 minutes away. Less than 1 hour from Alicante airport.

Several Golf courses within 30 minutes by car. Beaches at Calpe (2), La Fusstera,Javea, Moriara, Denia, approx 20 minutes by car. Many local walks. Horse Riding. Fishing. Caves close by Jalon. Public swimming pool in Jalon.

For more information visit the advertiser's page here and make your 2012 holiday arrangements now.

La Cordonnerie Holiday Rental in France

2011-11-28T03:52:00.001-08:00

Looking for a great self catering holiday rental in France for your 2012 holiday?

Take a closer look at this charming cottage in tranquil hamlet in beautiful countryside with large private pool and garden.

It is La Cordonnerie, St. Antonin-Noble-Val io in the Midi-Pyrenees in France.

Described by the owners as "A comfortable house, tastefully restored to retain some of its original 18C features. The cottage is situated in a tranquil hamlet in rolling farmland on the edge of the forest of Gresigne, close to the famous Gorges of the River Aveyron and only one hour's drive from Toulouse International Airport. Residents of La Cordonnerie also have the sole use of a large garden and a 6 x12 metre swimming pool.

The hamlet is very close to the pretty villages of Vaour and Penne. The busy medieval market town of St Antonin-Noble-Val, a centre for canoeing with a delightful weekly market is on the riverside just 8 miles away. It is an ideal location from which to visit the many regional historic sites."
Sleeps up to 4

2 bedrooms

2 bathrooms

Dishwasher

Washing machine

Satellite TV

Telephone

Room fans

Private pool

Pets welcome

Shops nearby

TV

Close to River

Internet access

Find out more here Book now for 2012

New owners foThe Palm Tree Lodge, Wingmore, Kent - Self catering holiday rental

2011-10-22T03:20:00.000-07:00

Garden at The Palm Tree Lodge, Wingmore, Canterbury - Kent, England

The New proprietors have given The Lodge a modern twist without losing any of its 18th century charm.

It is located just a short Journey from The Cathedral City of Canterbury, Folkestone’s Euro Tunnel terminal, the Port of Dover and the Kent Coast, it is the ideal base to indulge in all Kent has to offer.

The Palm Tree Inn goes back nearly 300 years when it was built as a Georgian Farmhouse. In 1735 the owner was granted a license to sell ales from the premises, but was restricted to the sale of ales and cider only.

Today it is a self catering holiday rental and the new owners can buy in supplies for the guests so they have everything they need to hand on their arrival.

They have thought of everything for their guests -There is free wi-fi, Sky TV incuding movie channels, DVD Player and Play Station 2 for guests to use.

Mini Library: They also have a wide selection of books for guests to read whilst relaxing. The Famous "Well Table" can seat up to 8 and is a uniqiue feature to The Lodge, It is 100 feet deep and you can see the water below through the glass hole in the middle of the table which can also be illuminated.

There is a small kitchen with oven and Hob, Microwave, fridge, crockery, cutlery and utensils. Supplies can be purchased for guests if required.

A seperate Laundry Room is equipped washing Machine, Iron and Ironing Board.

The accommodation sleeps 2-4. Featuring one double bedroom and sofa bed in the living room. Although unserviced, linen and towels will be supplied free of charge. A large shower room with toilet is well equipped.

If you forget to bring something they can supply it too.
Holiday rental guests will have the use of the beautiful grounds and garden with access to a paved patio area directly from the back of the Lodge. This has a covered seating area and Stunning views, it is perfect for outside dining and romantic country walks. There is lots of space for parking directly outside the Lodge.

Find out more at English Cottage Rental.com HERE or jmllvillas.com Here the low cost villa advertising service

2012 is just around the corner so it is time to advertise your self catering holiday rental

2011-10-20T06:02:00.000-07:00

It was only 8 days or so again when we had temperatures in the twenties in the south of England. People were enjoying the "late summer" and the beaches were crowded.

Thoughts of next year's holidays were far away, or even the half term holidays starting this weekend. Today (20th October) the temperatures have barely reached double figures and there was a frost like. The weather forecasters have been predicting snow over the Scottish mountains! It is time to think about 2012 holidays.

Owners of self catering holiday rentals can list them with specialist firms who will normally want a good block out of the year's calendar. They have to pay the company a percentage of the letting fee as naturally, specialist holiday home rental companies will arrange booking, check renters in and out and take care of the cleaning, welcome packs etc.

Alternativel the property owner can put a post card in the local supermarket or newsagent. Many owners have their own websites, however in addition the property owner can also list their accommodation with an online holiday home promotion site like www.jmlvillas.com

jml Villas has been around for years, in fact its origins go back to 2001. The formula is simple and straightforward. The advertiser pays just £12.50 for one year's advertising - that is why it is called the low cost villa advertising service

The owner add all the details about the property including six photos, local information and prices (and even a link to their own website) and updates it whenever she or he wants to.

All arrangements are made direct between property owner and renter and like the majorirty of similar holiday rental sites the Terms and Conditions state that the site is purely an advertising service and dealing have to be soley between renter and owner. If the owner abuses the service or there is a serious complaint the ad, however will be removed.

NOW IS THE TIME TO ADVERTISE YOUR PROPERTY

Traditionally as soon as the clocks go back as they do next weekend, the dark evening arrive people start to think of next year's holiday. This process goes on through December and after Christmas and the sales in the High Street have been exhausted out come the holiday plans.

At jmlvillas.com we want you to be part of those holiday plans and list your property now. It only take a few minutes and you can pay by credit card via the PayPal system.

Don't leave your holiday home empty in 2012 - Click here to find out more about advertising it

Finally we also have links to property insurance companies who cover holiday home rentals in many parts of the world (plus main residence as well)

Les Herolles - Poitou-Charentes France Self catering holiday rental

2011-07-22T07:53:00.000-07:00

Booked your summer holiday yet? Take a look at this great holiday rental in the Poitou-Charentes area of France.

It has 3 Bedrooms - all en-suite - perfect for 4 to 6 people .Located in the heart of France, and just an hours drive from both Poitiers Airport and Limoges Airport - this charming french chalet style house is ideal for 4-6 people. A detached property, set in in it's own large grounds, it has 3 en-suite bedrooms, a large living and dining area, and is close to many local attractions -Les Herolles is a small village in Region 86 on the Indre / Vienne borders of France. The village is wonderfully quiet and peaceful (except for the fabulous market day each month - more info here) and is within easy driving distances of many major towns and attractions -There is also an additional double sofa bed on the upstairs mezzanine landing should there be more in your group. Comfortably furnished, and with a well equipped kitchen you’re sure to have all you require to enjoy your holiday in France.

Find out more by visiting the jmlvillas.com website Here

The entrance to the property is by double gates with a drive leading up to the house. There is ample parking for numerous vehicles, or even a caravan or holiday home should you wish. The very large gardens have mature fruit trees and many areas for you to relax during your holiday. Depending on what time of year you stay there will be a choice of apples, pears, cherries, peaches, nuts and much more for you to pick at your leisure.

Holiday homeowners in a fix according to Irish Times report

2011-07-07T07:33:00.000-07:00

The Irish Times was delivered this morning and being a Thursday contained the "property" supplement.

Today the headline was "Can't sell, can't rent: holiday homeowners in a fix" - property journalist Edel Morgan's article started "Holiday home dreams have turned to nightmares for many – is there anything second homeowners can do?

When your dream holiday home turns into a financial millstone, it can seem like there’s no way out. You can’t rent it, you can’t sell it, you’re under pressure to meet mortgage repayments and it’s proving a massive drain on already limited resources."

The report Here goes on to report on various owner's problems. Renting it out is mentioned once and Ireland is still a great place to go to on holiday. The downside can be the cost of taking a car there. I have written several aricles now on the high costs of taking a car to Ireland from Britain opposed to the the very low costs going to France. SEE HERE

The fact that a return crossing from Holyhead to Dun Laoghaire in July 2011 is costing £427 including credit card fee is incredible. Last September it cost £286. An increase of nearly £150 is totally amazing and I am receiving email from Sea France and P&O saying take a car and up to 9 people from £35 each way. The crossing to France is 1.5 hours and twice as long to Ireland!

On the 30th June The Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service issued a press release saying "The irish Government launched the first ever Irish Short-stay Visa Waiver Programme.

Under the Programme, tourists or business people who have lawfully entered the UK, including Northern Ireland, on a valid UK visa will be able to travel on to Ireland without the requirement to obtain an Irish visa. They will be allowed to stay in Ireland for up to 3 months or until their UK visa runs out, whichever is the shorter.

The visa waiver has a major role to play in boosting our tourism industry, stimulating job creation and bringing economic recovery. It will allow us to attract new visitors from fast-growing countries like India, China and the Gulf states. These countries are only just becoming aware of Ireland as a tourism destination. The waiver will allow holidaymakers from these nations to travel seamlessly to Ireland from the UK.

The visa waiver is just one of a number of tourism measures in the Jobs Initiative designed to boost tourism jobs. Other measures include the VAT cut on tourism products which starts this week, a three-pronged approach to boost air passengers, and halving employers’ PRSI. I hope this will be the first in a series of measures to ease visa requirements for tourists, business people and students wishing to come to Ireland"

Getting to Ireland by air is very reasonable and car hire costs have fallen by 50% (See Information Here)

So tourists are being encouraged and owners of holiday homes should now get them to earn their keep.

At www.jmlvillas.com there are lots of people looking for self catering holiday rentals in Ireland. People visit Ireland all over the year and the holiday home owner can still fit in their breaks. Sure they will have "strangers" living in their home from time to time, but just make sure all the personal possessions you don't want your guests to use are securely locked away.

Advertising the holiday rental won't break the bank when you use jmlvillas.com. It only costs £12.50 for ONE YEAR. In euros that is approximately €13.90 not a lot. You get a page to feature your holiday rental with 6 photos and if you have your own web site you get a FREE link as well.

So start your listing today as it not too late to catch the remainder of the 2011 season.

Monaco's big weekend

2011-07-04T23:18:00.001-07:00

Life will now be getting back to normal now following the €50 million wedding celebrations of HSH Prince Albert II and HSH Charlene (Wittstock)Princess of Monaco took place on Friday and Saturday.

The wedding is the first of a ruling prince in the principality since the prince's father, Prince Rainier III, married the Hollywood star Grace Kelly in 1956.

The weekend included free concerts by The Eagles and Jean Michel Jarre.

Can you visit Monaco "on the cheap"? This is what The UK's Independent newspaper's travel writer Simin Calder wrote about on Saturday. His entertaining feature " Visit Monte Carlo without going bust- What can a single euro buy you in Monaco? Simon Calder explores Europe's most glamorous principality on a pocketful of small change"

View the article Here

2011 Speen Festival starts on the 8th September

2011-07-04T08:41:00.000-07:00

Every couple of years the picturesque village of Speen in the Buckinghamshire Chiltern Hills holds a Festival. The 2011 festival is on for 11 days between the 8th and 18th September 2011.

The festival is sponsored by a number of companies including Cannon Moorcroft - accountants, Gabbitas Robins - solicitors, jml Training and Consultancy – www.jml-training.com , Hypnos bed manufacturers, Beechdean Farmhouse Ice Cream and www.insurance4carrental.com - car hire excess insurance and car rental.

A musical has become a regular tradition to start off the Speen Festival and this year The Dreaming which is based on A Midsummer Night’s Dream by William Shakespeare with music by Howard Goodall (of Blackadder & Vicar of Dibley fame) and book and lyrics by Charles Hart is Speen Festival’s most ambitious community theatre yet.
Updated to just before the start of the First World War, the action for The Dreaming takes place in a small hilltop village, surrounded by ancient and mysterious woodland – in fact, a place not unlike Speen, set in the heart of the Chiltern Hills near High Wycombe.

Audiences young and old can look forward to superb comedy and glorious tunes as well as spotting echoes of local history and culture.
For children and families an imaginative selection of activities kick off with a Wild Workshop Saturday of craft, photographic and outdoor fun, continuing with a host of other events aimed at the whole local community. Back by overwhelming popular demand will be the taste-bud-tickling Food Festival.

There is everything for the fine food lover, including cookery demonstrations and beer and wine tastings. Sample a diverse and delicious range of local fayre as we celebrate some of the best producers and suppliers in the Chilterns. No need to bring lunch or tea but do bring your shopping baskets to stock up your shelves.

On the 14th September, the ear-caressing Jazz Concert takes place. An evening of jazz by the Martin Hart Quintet with Lynn Garner featuring the music and life story of Johnny Mercer, one of the quintessential giants of the 20th century popular-song genre. A man who won 4 Academy Awards and was nominated for a further 19.

The final weekend starts with Folk Music in The King William IV Pub & Restaurant. Folk music is enjoying a renaissance, come and find out why and enjoy live acoustic music at its best. If you can’t get to Dingle, or even Towersey, come and join in for a great night in the local.

On the Saturday night the Festival’s celebrated Cabaret Supper makes a welcome appearance. An intoxicating and stylish evening of food, drink & entertainment with a twist of Art Nouveau. The Festival ends as it began with a riotous ball in a hilltop village surrounded by woodland - only 100 years on. Some regular and some surprising events come together to form our homegrown, and sumptuous, cabaret supper.

On the final day there is “Prom in the Playing Field” Just when you thought it was all over: a fabulous free finale afternoon treat for all ages. Settle down for an entertaining afternoon of music classics and some prom style participation with impresario Sam Laughton. A collaboration of local orchestras and soloists will showcase their talent and perform favourites from film, TV and the classical masters. Collections will be made for various charities nominated by participating musicians.

There is free admission to some of the events and for others you need to book early. The Speen Festival has an excellent website and details can be found at www.speenfestival.org

Speen Festival has established itself as a celebration of the very best artistic and creative talent from the village itself and the surrounding areas. At the heart of the Festival is the desire to provide local people with opportunities to create and participate in innovative, artistic events. Performances, exhibitions and outdoor activities are offered to the whole community at affordable prices.

The Festival reaches beyond the village boundaries and is a true platform for new and developing talent excelling in art, music, dance, science, nature and photography including a full theatrical production. It is well worth a visit. It is at Speen in Bucks (near High Wycombe / Princes Risborough) not Speen in Berks near Newbury!

Charming Duplex holiday rental in Old Antibes France

2011-07-02T00:44:00.000-07:00

Just listed in time for the 2011 Juan Les Pins Jazz Festival.

Weekly Holiday Renting in Old Antibes - Directly from owner, no agency fees - Ideal for Family and Children

Located at Place de l’Amiral Bernaud, in the heart of the Old Antibes, this charming 45m2 duplex south oriented is placed on two floors:
Living-room, dining-room and kitchen – first floor Two bedrooms, bathroom and toilettes – second floor

Local Info:
In front : Free public parking places
Marché Provençal – 5 minutes walking distance
Automatic Washing machine in 10 m
Regional bus station in 100m
Direct bus to Cannes, to Nice...
Hypermarket Carrefour – 4 minutes walking distance
All the restaurants near by

Location de vacances par semaine au cœur du vieil Antibes

Directement du propriétaire, sans frais d'agence -Idéal pour une famille et les enfants

Valable pour location pendant le Festival du Cannes et le Festival du Jazz!

Situé sur la Place de l'Amiral Barnaud, au coeur du viel Antibes, l'appartement de charme lumineux de 45M2 en duplex orienté plein Sud :
Le salon, salle à manger et la cuisine américaine au RDC ou vous pourrez cuisiner la vraie cuisine provençale
Deux chambres, toilettes et salle d'eau au premier étage

A Noter :
Devant places de parking gratuites
Le marché provençal à 5 minutes
Une laverie automatique à 30 mètres
Station de Bus Régionale à 100 mètres
Bus direct à Cannes et à Nice
Hypermarché Carrefour à 4 minutes
Tous les restaurants à proximité

Find out more at the jml villas.com holiday rentals website: Here

French Government plans to tax holiday home owners

2011-06-15T08:14:00.000-07:00

Came across this article in Tuesday 14th June 2011 in The Independent -

Sarkozy's plan to tax holiday homes alarms 'les rosbifs' By John Lichfield in Paris

Apparently this tax, due to take effect in January 2012, will apply to second homes owned by non-residents, whether they are French or foreign!

Up to 360,000 homes could be affected, about half of which are thought to be owned by British nationals.

Under the new law, the taxman would charge 20 per cent of the theoretical annual "rental value" of a second home, whether it is rented out or not. Homes rented out full-time will be exempt, since their owners are already assumed to pay sufficient French tax.

Holiday home owners currently pay domestic property taxes - Taxe d'habitation (if applicable TV Licence include - L'audiovisuel public) and Taxes foncieres.

Read the rest of the aricle Here

24th June 2011 Update to this proposal

A meeting was held on the weekend of the 18th / 19th June -11 with President Nicolas Sarkozy, Budget Minister François Baroin and senators representing French nationals living abroad, the proposed tax was dropped.According to a report in Citywire Money "The decision to scrap the tax may well have rested on the fact that French expats – who would also have been subject to the new tax – will for the first time have a chance to vote next year in the presidential elections. Sarkozy is currently seeking a second term in office"

One Bed furnished flat close to BNU in High Wycombe To Let

2011-05-25T03:43:00.000-07:00

Furnished very spacious one bedroom apartment in High Wycombe's town centre To let

JNP letting agents in High Wycombe, Bucks are marketing this first floor furnished apartment in the very smart Kingfisher Court development. Conveniently situated next to BNU (University) and opposite Wycombe Hospital. Itis a very short walk to town centre, tain station, bus station and Eden Shopping Centre. The M40 is approx 1.5 miles away and the A40 a few metres distant from this flat.

Details are:

Entrance hall with wood laminate flooring and entry phone.

Living room with wood laminate flooring sofa and dining table and blinds.

Kitchen with fridge/freezer, washer/dryer, microwave, electric cooker and range of units and vinyl flooring.

Bathroom with tiled flooring, bath with shower, WC and basin.

Large double bedroom with fitted wardrobe, double bed, wood laminate flooring and blinds.

The apartment is double glazed and has electric heating. Underground secure parking for one car, communual gardens with drying and barbecue area.

It is available the end of June 2011 at £650 per calendar month.

The tenant is responsible for the usual Council Tax, Water Charges, Electricity, (phone/broadband if used) TV Licence.

It is suitable for one person or a couple, but as there is only one bedroom, not suitable for children.

For further information contact JNP Lettings on 0149 520 555 - email lettings@jnp.co.uk or visit their website HERE

Staysure Holidays via jmlvillas.com

2011-05-24T08:13:00.001-07:00

Staysure the Travel Insurance experts for the over 50's have added their Staysure Holidays to the jmlvillas.com website.

As a holidaymaker you can choose to book your whole holiday with Staysure or just the bits that suit you best, from a wide range of holidays including: package holidays in the sun, cruises, European city breaks, tailor-made or all-inclusive, UK breaks, ski holidays and coach holidays.

What's more you can choose to book holiday extras too and make big savings on car hire, airport parking, airport lounges, resort excursions, travel money, and attraction passes.

Staysure are full members of ABTA (the Association of British Travel Agents); and a member of ACE (the Association of Cruise Experts), so you can rest assured that your travel arrangements will be secure with them.

To find out more Click Here

Beach House Robins Nest, Armona Island, Olhão, Ilha da Armona, Olhão Portugal

2011-05-18T08:20:00.001-07:00

A Beach House - Robins Nest, Armona Island, Olhão, Ilha da Armona, Olhão in the Algarve in Portugal was added to the jmlvillas.com Holiday Rentals self catering website this morning.

It is a fantastic beach house with it all in a magical island! You just get out bed and go to the beach! No stress and no travel problems when you are on this island retreat.

A short walk along the main footpath that leads from the lagoon beaches to the large sandy beach you come to the children's playground and Cafe Convivio - our little villa is just behind here.

As you approach you will walk down a little pathway lined with pepper and mimosa trees. The whitewashed walls of the villa can be seen tucked down the pathway backing onto the tidal lagoon that if you are lucky enough to be there when there is a really high tide the water will lap at the back of the garden!

Inside the villa is a open plan lounge with fireplace and brand new modern kitchen. Off this area there are two bedrooms and two bathrooms. The family bathroom has a fabulous 'indoor pool' style bath that you can fill up and relax at leisure in the water. Look up and you can see the high ceiling and a mezzanine open plan room - up here is another 2 single beds and more generous living space with comfy sofas and TV with Satelite and dvd player.

It will accommodate up to six guests.

It has a highchair and baby cot available at no extra cost. This must be pre-arranged before arrival. The property is strictly non smoking. Price in summer includes private meet and greet at Faro airport and transport to Olhao where the ferry departs for Armona Island.

When you arrive on Armona Island you will be met by the Housekeeper who will walk you to the villa alternatively you can be provided with a detailed photos/walk map so you can make your own way to the villa. At the end of your holiday you will be taken the ferry back to Olhao and a driver will meet you at at the ferry dock and take you back to Faro Airport to catch your plane or alternatively onto one of our other beautiful properties in the Golden Triangle Almancil. During normal hours of ferry operation the ferry ticket is included in the rental price.

If arriving outside of ferry operational hours the cost of the private taxi transfer (approx €20) will be additional to the rental cost which we will pre book for you so you do not have to worry about anything! Included in the rental price is beach towels, bath towels and bed linen.

Armona Island is one of the islands in the Algarve. It measures 9 kilometres in length, and from 0.1 to 1 km wide. It is accessible by regular 20 mins Ferry trip or even quicker Water Taxi from the waterfront in Olhão.

For more information go to jmlvillas.com Here

Do we need a high speed train service between London and Birmingham?

2011-05-16T07:06:00.000-07:00

The British Government is determined that the High Speed rail link that comes from the Channel Tunnel to St Pancras in London continues to Birmingham. When that is completed they want to build a high speed link further north.

The previous Labour Government started the ball rolling and despite the Conservative Party opposing the third runway at Heathrow, they with their Coalition Government partner the Liberal Democrats want to go full steam ahead with this proposed £17B development of HS2. Knowing how most projects go from estimate to final figure the development could easily end up costing much more like £33 billion.

The Government says it wants a rail link that will have a railway line capable of up to 250 miles per hour. Why? The motorways in England are bulging with traffic; high speed rail passenger trains will not help alleviate the problem of thousands of trucks travelling on them every day. Many of these trucks come from mainland Europe. With HS2 development passengers will be able to travel between London and Birmingham slightly faster than do at the moment.

What is needed is upgrading the original rail networks and getting freight off the road. Everyone wants a greener environment, but clogging the motorways in the UK is adding to the problem. France introduced the high speed rail network years ago. France has about the same size population as the UK with more than twice the amount of land. So much of this is farm land and the cost of construction of the TGV network has been a lot less than similar networks in Britain because of the density of population.

The French TGV network is losing money and is subsidised by the other sector of the SNCF and funds are being taken from the “slower service” now. Currently in the UK there is a fast frequent intercity network connecting London to its top five cities at a faster speed than high speed rail does in many other European countries.

The London to Birmingham proposals mean a great deal of tunneling to avoid the dense levels of population and the beautiful country side like The Chilterns that will be affected by its creation. One argument for the development has been to make it easier to move labour. More people will probably be working in the London area rather than commuting to Birmingham every day and with the price of rail travel in the UK won’t be able to afford to. Unlike the present system whereby trains stop at stations en-route to London and Birmingham, there won’t be any stopping as there will not be any station in between those two cities.

This project will cost every household in the UK between £1,000 to £1,200. We will land up with a fast train service that will probably not be profitable, a larger deficit in the country and motorways clogged up by lorries transporting goods from A to B.

The emphasis must be to get those trucks off the motorways, encourage manufacturers and distributors to use the rail networks to transport the commodities carried in trucks. If it is not logistically possible to move all the freight into containers in trains, put the trucks themselves on trains like they do going through the Channel Tunnel. This should mean that our environment in Britain becomes greener than it is at the moment.

We cannot go on adding more freight to our congested motorways and widening them, building more is not going to easy that problem. Upgrade the railway network to take freight in the UK, not high speed passenger trains.

Have your say on what you think about the British Government’s proposal for building a high speed rail link from London to Birmingham. The consultation closes on the 29th July 2011. You can fill out your response at http://highspeedrail.dft.gov.uk/ The debate will continue long after that.

Sunrise Court Holiday Rental at St Pauls Bay in Malta

2011-05-16T02:56:00.000-07:00

Looking for a self catering holiday rental in Malta?

Lovely holiday apartment in the centre of St Pauls Bay, which is located only walking distance to the town of Bugibba and two minutes from the sea.

Accommodation consists of two bedrooms (one with ensuite shower), one bathroom and a spacious kitchen/dining/living room with a balcony with views of the sea. The kitchen is fully equipped with refrigerator, freezer, cooker, washing machine, toaster, kettle, all necessary cutlery and dishes. In the living area there is a nice sofa-bed and television. The apartment also has a balcony at the back. Shopping amenities like pharmacies, banks, food stores, good restaurants, wine bars and bus stop are all within walking distance.

Bugibba is a busy well established resort in which the Maltese have recently invested millions of pounds in improvements and which spreads south into the quieter resort of Qawra and only 5 minutes from St. Paul's Bay. There, is plenty of activity in the area, with many shops and restaurants as well as pretty fishing harbours and rocky beaches with excellent water sports facilities.

•Sleeps up to 6
•2 bedrooms
•2 bathrooms
•Washing machine
•Satellite TV
•Telephone
•Room fans
•Beach nearby
•Shops nearby
•Bars nearby
•TV
•Restaurants nearby

Find out more Here

The very high cost of taking a car on holiday to Ireland

2011-05-10T07:15:00.000-07:00

This original report from April 2011 has been updated. You can take a one way crossing from Wales to Ireland over the end of May bank holiday for around £140 or use the same company to go from Ireland to France for €99 that is £87. When will these ferry companies bring down their prices to encourage more visitors from the UK to be able to afford visiting Ireland?

Both Irish Ferries ans Stena charge the same price per passenger for upgrading to Club/Premium. Read this by following the link below and add your comments to this blog.
The accelerating cost of taking a car on holiday to Ireland

Self catering holiday cottage in Lake District available now

2011-05-10T05:45:00.001-07:00

A self catering holiday rental at Hawkshead Hill, Hawkshead, English Lake District, Cumbria, England that has been advertised on the jmlvillas.com holiday rentals site for several years is now being advertised on EnglishCottageRental.com.

Hatter's Cottage is an 18th century detached stone cottage in a secluded location near the centre of the southern Lake District. It is situated 150 metres from public roads, on a small farm near a hilltop between Coniston and Windermere lakes. The picturesque village of Hawkshead, 1 mile away, has a small supermarket, a post office and several pubs serving meals.

One can walk or cycle in all directions from the cottage door on footpaths, quiet lanes and forest tracks. Mountain walking, boating, pony trekking and rock climbing are available nearby. The central location makes the cottage a good base for touring the Lake District.

Hatters Cottage is beside a small stream, surrounded by gardens, fields, orchard and woodland, with mountain views. It is the only holiday property on the farm, and is run by the owners. It is fully renovated with gas central heating and double glazing throughout.

•Sleeps up to 6 •2 bedrooms •1 bathrooms •Washing machine •Shops nearby •Bars nearby •TV •Microwave •Lake nearby •DVD

For more information visit http://www.englishcottagerental.com/Hatters_Cottage_Cumbria.htm

Espougnac, Aix-en-Provence, France Holiday Rental

2011-05-08T03:28:00.000-07:00

This delightful self catering holiday rental near Aix-en-Provence in the south of France has just been added to the cotedazurrental.com - villa-rental-France.com - eurovillalocation.com and jmlvillas.com self catring holiday rentals websites.

This self catering villa:
•Sleeps up to 6
•3 bedrooms
•2 bathrooms
•Dishwasher
•Washing machine
•Satellite TV
•Telephone
•Room fans
•Private pool
•Pets welcome
•Shops nearby
•TV
•Restaurants nearby
•Internet access
•Microwave
•Lake nearby
•Close to airport

It is located in the countryside on a quiet lane, 3k from the village of Meyrargues and shops, 15k from the lively, historical market town of Aix-en-Provence and close to the hilltop villages of the Luberon, within striking distance of Arles, Avignon, the Camargue, and the seaside, the house is ideally located for a holiday. The villa is modern on one level and has 3 double bedrooms (2 double beds, 2 singles), a large bathroom, a separate shower room and 2 toilets.

The living area is made up of a lounge-diner and open plan kitchen, with 2 patios (1 covered) for dining outside (BBQ), + a small conservatory and utilities room. As the house is the owners' home for most of the year, it is very well-equipped with TV, (DVD, VHS,CD players), wifi internet access, and everything you need in the kitchen. The grounds are extensive and planted with trees and bushes. There's a grassy area next to the pool (11m x 4.5m), a poolhouse offering shade and the opportunity to dine by the pool. There are sunloungers around the pool.

Meyrargues village — Pizzeria and Château (expensive restaurant and hotel). Pertuis and Venelles — restaurants. Luberon hills 40 min away — hilltop villages (Peter Mayle). Aix — everything.

Beaches 45 minutes away — Cassis, Bandol, Carry-le-Rouet. Bowling 5 min. Tennis, trout fishing, horse-riding, nearby. Hiking on Sainte Victopire mountain, nearby. Golf 30 min.

Find out more HERE

Former Baker's Farmhouse at Almancil Portugal for your holiday

2011-05-04T08:54:00.000-07:00

Fancy renting a former baker's farmhouse for your summer holidays? This superb property was listed in the jmlvillas.com website earlier this afternoon.

Quinta do Padeiro - This Villa is fully air conditioned with heated pool and enormous gardens to enjoy!

Quinta do Padeiro is a newly converted luxury farmhouse villa suitable for up to 12 people the villa is fully air conditioned with heated pool and secure fenced extensive landscaped gardens and best of all your own personal maid service. Quinta do Padeiro has 6 bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, WIFI internet access, SKY TV programs, charcoal BBQ and extensive shady area hacienda style pergola pool side for alfresco dining.

The villa boasts over 5000 square metres of terraced and landscaped garden of various fruit trees and flowers, also lawned area with children's play zone with slides and toys and the pool has a safety screen to keep the little one’s from being too adventurous around the pool, or why not chill out in the hammock in the cactus garden? Quinta do Padeiro is a 200 year old villa which was once a Baker's farmhouse the villa has been sympathetically restored keeping the character of the property with many original features being retained.

In winter, under floor heating is charged at usage rate and Air-conditioning is an additional €60 week. — Meter readings are taken on arrival and departure. Under floor heating is charged at usage rate and Air-conditioning is an additional €60 week. We have tried to think of everything that you would need or want for a luxurious holiday.

There are many extras that have been included in the villa — 50' plasma TV and additional 42' tv's Freeview satelite, stereo & CDs, DVD player, movies, lots of board games even books and magazines.

Bedrooms have their own full bathroom and access via french patio doors to the terraces. Breakfast in the morning can be taken on your balcony. Enjoy a freshly made coffee and take in the views. Forget about having to make a bed or tidy up — the maid will be in soon and take care of it all.

The kitchen is equipped with all the gadgets and gizmo's, and utensils you need to whip up a fantastic meal. There is a formal dining table in the open plan lounge and outside dining area. The lounge room is very light and spacious with several sets of french patio doors accessing the garden, terrace and pool. There is a plasma TV and large, comfy sofas, squishy cushions and cuddly throws to snuggle under at night while relaxing with a hot chocolate.

The villa is also regularly restocked the little things like tea, coffee, toilet paper and general food items. You will find shampoo and hair care products, bath and toilet soap, first aid kit and even washing powder. As an added extra all the bed linen and bath towels are provided for you while on holiday. For the children there is a selection of toys and pool/garden toys to keep them entertained. During your stay if you have any problems or require assistance the agents are on-hand to help.

The agents can help you with anything you need, from changing a light bulb to medical assistance if required. This ensures everything about your holiday will go smoothly. In charge of domestic services is Betina who will ensure your stay is like being in a 5 * Hotel. Betina will organise your maid service and SandyBlue can organise babysitting for you too — if you fancy a few nights sampling the restaurants that surround the villa.

To make your booking go to http://www.jmlvillas.com/villa/832 Now

Casa Jacaranda, Almancil at Vale Formoso Portugal

2011-05-03T05:14:00.001-07:00

This luxurious villa at Vale Formoso in Portugal has just been added to the jmlvillas.com holiday rentals site.

The brief details are: Spacious and charming villa with internal space of over 300 sq metres, suitable for up to 8 adults and 2 children. In summer there is an additional 5th bedroom available (on request) making the villa suitable for upto 10 adults + children. The villa is fully air conditioned with a sunny south facing private pool with child friendly single depth of 1.70m and extensive landscaped gardens.

Casa Jacaranda has 4 bedrooms, 2 double bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, one double bedroom on the ground floor and an one upstairs twin bedroom (second available on request). SKY TV programs (free view), charcoal BBQ and extensive shady area pool side for alfresco dining. The villa boasts over 1500 square metres of terraced area and large landscaped garden of various trees and flowers. There is a long sweeping driveway from the automatic gates of the property to Casa Jacaranda's front door.

What to do there?

In Almancil there is a karting track if you need to burn off that adrenalin. There is also an Aqua Park (10 mins drive on the other side of Quarteira) and a Swim with Dolphins experience and Theme Park (30 mins drive on the motorway — Zoomarine). Within a couple of hundred metres walk in the local village of Vale Formoso you will find a one Star Michelin Guide Restaurant: “Henrique Leis” with international, French and author kitchen, or even “A Quinta” restaurant.

Find out more at http://www.jmlvillas.com/villa/831

Anglesey North Wales| Ynys Môn Gogledd Cymru

2011-05-02T10:20:00.000-07:00

Anglesey in north west Wales is now on the Map Find. Following the Royal Wedding on the 29th April 2011, Anglesey in north Wales could get more visitors trying to spot the Royal couple who live on the Island.

Click on the link below for more of this.

Anglesey North Wales Ynys Môn Gogledd Cymru

How to rent that empty holiday home

2011-04-28T04:45:00.001-07:00

I opened the property section of the "Irish Times" today and there on page three was this article - "How to rent that empty holiday home"

It was an article around Jacinta Stacey of Trident Holiday Homes giving advice for holiday home owners in Ireland.

Basically to keep those holiday lets filled you need to:

Cut your prices, but not too much, to keep your holiday home full of tenants

Work out how much you need to earn to break even.

Set aside 20 percent of the rental income for marketing costs

Consider signing up with an overseas agent.

What was not mentioned which is really rather important is to advertise your self catering holiday rental property yourself online. This does not matter what country your property is in.

www.jmlvillas.com has been operating nearly ten years now and is a very economical way to advertise. It costs only £12.50 (and at today's exchange rate that is $20.83 or €14.07) for one year's advertising.

You can have as much descriptive material as you can fit in, display six good size photos, have a live web link to your own personal web site, show prices and contact info.

There are properties being advertised in over 30 countries. So the best way to rent an empty holiday home in Ireland or worldwide is to spend a very smal amount of money and get it live on the populat self catering holiday rentals website today.

Ryanair relauches their website

2011-04-20T09:50:00.001-07:00

Ryanair the low cost Irish airline has announced today that it has launched its revamped and redesigned website www.ryanair.com which will deliver great usability, faster bookings and easier access to great value services such as car hire, accommodation and insurance and Ryanair’s Manage My Booking section where passengers can tailor their booking.

According to their Press Release "Ryanair will carry 75 million passengers this year and its website, www.ryanair.com , receives over 180 million individual visitors each year, making it Europe’s largest travel website. Over 99% of Ryanair flights are booked online and passengers must return to the site to check-in before they travel. Ryanair successfully launched third party advertising on its website in 2009 and its revamped site continues to offer advertisers unrivalled access to Europe’s largest travel community.

Ryanair’s Stephen McNamara said “Ryanair passengers will now find it even easier to access Ryanair’s guaranteed lowest fares with our revamped website, which allows passengers to move quickly through our site to access the low fares and great related services only Ryanair can deliver. Ryanair is Europe’s biggest travel site with 180 million site visitors helping Ryanair to grow to 75m passengers this year.

To celebrate our great new website, and encourage passengers to explore it for themselves, Ryanair is releasing 1million €8 seats for travel across Europe in May. Since these seats will be snapped up fast we urge passengers to book immediately on www.ryanair.com .”

Villa Arta, Vilamoura a 4 Bedroom Villa with Private Pool in the Algarve

2011-04-12T08:03:00.000-07:00

One the jmlvillas.com Countryside Villas in the Algarve, Portugal that has just been listed.

Vila Arta is a comfortable 4 bedroom private villa, The property is divided into the main house with 2 bedrooms and then there is separate 2 bedroom cottage its is located in a quiet and rural setting overlooking the orange groves yet not far from the centre of the popular town of Vilamoura where you can find all the usual amenities of a golf & beach resort.

The villa offers excellent value for money and can accommodation up to 8 people. The villa was formally owned by a German artist that still has left his foot print in and around the villa making it an interesting villa to stay in. Accommodation details: Interior Main House • 2 double bedrooms • 2 bathrooms (in the main bedroom the bathroom and bedroom are in one) • Open plan Kitchen with Cooker, fridge/freezer, dishwasher, microwave • Utility room with washing machine • Open plan Living/dining room with fireplace, sat television, DVD and stereo Interior cottage. • 2 double bedrooms • 1 bathroom • Living / dinning room • Kitchen area • Terrace overlooking the pool area

Find out more here at the jmlvillas.com website

Apartment Mar Vento in Vale do Lobo, Luxury holiday rentals Apartments

2011-04-12T07:56:00.000-07:00

One Bedroom Apartment in Vale do Lobo Beach in the Algarve in southern Portugal This first floor apartment is located opposite Vale do Lobo praça and beach. With the beach and the Praca offering various restaurants, shops and bars on your doorstep this is a very popular apartment. The bathroom and kitchen have traditional Portuguese tiles and the living room and the bedroom are nice and bright with satellite TV. This apartment has a private roof terrace with sea views and the balcony from the lounge again offers garden and sea views.

Find out more about this great self catering holiday rental today HERE

Villa Praia, Vale do Lobo, Algarve, Portugal

2011-04-12T07:52:00.000-07:00

Villa Praia is a self catering holiday letting in the Algarve, Portugal available via jmlvillas.com holiday rentals

Location, Location, this well presented 2 bedroom house is only 22 steps away from the beach of Vale do Lobo. Location A unique location to spend your holiday for those who like to be right on the beach and by the Praça where there are various exclusive restaurants shops and bars.

Two bedroom villa on the beach that offers: •2 bedrooms •2 bathrooms •Dishwasher •Washing machine •Satellite TV •Air conditioning •Private pool •Shared pool •Beach nearby •Shops nearby •Bars nearby •TV •Restaurants nearby •Microwave •Golf Find out more by Clicking Here

Holiday Rental in the Azores

2011-04-12T07:40:00.001-07:00

Adega do Pocinho, Pico Island, Azores - Holiday Stone House in Paradise

Situated in front the Atlantic Ocean and on the area of vineyards, overlooking the mountain of Pico and to Faial Island The accommodation details briefly:

•Sleeps up to 6 in •3 bedrooms •1 bathroom •Satellite TV •Beach nearby •Shops nearby •Bars nearby •TV •Restaurants nearby •Microwave •Park nearby •Close to airport

For more information from the jmlvillas.com holiday rentals website CLICK HERE

Juan-les-Pins Jazz Festival - Jazz à Juan- Jazz in Juan Festival 2011

2011-04-11T13:08:00.001-07:00

The 2011 Jazz Festival takes place between the 14th and the 24th July 2011 and the Box office is NOW OPEN

We have just been sent a copy of the English language version of the "Press File" by the Office de Tourisme & des Congrès.

Read this seventeen page PDF document and find out everything you need to known about the 2011 Jazz à Juan festival - Download Here

Find out more about the Jazz a Juan Festival Here

After 5 TV - Boosting Business in the south of France

2011-04-07T09:33:00.000-07:00

In May 2011, After 5 TV will be shooting on location in the South of France for a new travel show aptly named After 5TV Destinations. The series is driven to discover exciting touristic destinations through 5 key elements: travel, wine, gastronomy, cultural life and events. .

One of the episodes, After 5 TV Destinations, South of France promises to take pleasure-seeking viewers from all over the globe on an indulgent motorcycle ride in St. Tropez, a sight and sound tour of Festival de Cannes, a bustling walk around a French outdoor market in Provence, and more. The series will start airing Summer of 2011 so as to inspire holiday travelers from across Europe and abroad to visit the region and patronize the establishments featured in the episode.

See Full story Here

Scrap Air Passenger Duty (APD) in the UK like the Irish are doing

2011-03-12T07:23:00.000-08:00

An intersesting contribution has appeared today on the Carrentals.co.uk site "UK Calls to Scrap APD like the Irish"

The alliance behind the ‘Fair Tax on Flying’ campaign is calling on Chancellor George Osborne to follow the lead of Ireland’s government in scrapping Air Passenger Duty (APD). The move by the Irish came after the Dutch, Danish, Maltese and Swedish governments axed their aviation taxes as well.

The new Irish government has pledged to ax their aviation tax, which is €3. The governments have been discovering that their economies have been damaged by the levies. They have also highlighted that having more passenger routes has major economic benefits.

Now there are only 4 European counties that tax air passengers, and the UK is one of them. The ‘Fair Tax on Flying’ campaign is now urging the government to reconsider their policy on APD, which they say threatens to repress the economic growth of tourism.

Association of British Travel Agents (Abta) chief executive Mark Tanzer says that the Irish government is the latest to see that taxing air travelers is counter-productive, as any revenue raised from the duty is outweighed by the damage done to the wider economy. The campaign is calling on the Chancellor to follow the lead and not increase APD even higher, he added, especially if they intend to help tourism and travel flourish and grow.

The ‘Fair Tax on Flying’ alliance consists of more than 30 travel organizations since launching earlier this month. Included in the alliance are airports, airlines, destinations and trade associations. They have created a Facebook page to increase awareness of the tax and to allow users to submit their views on the matter.

What do you think? Add your comments to this blog

Nice Jazz festival 2011 - line up now revealed

2011-03-12T06:46:00.000-08:00

The Riviera Times has reported that in a press conference this week, the Mayor of Nice, Christian Estrosi, has revealed that the city's celebrated jazz festival will be dedicated in 2011 to the legendary trumpeter Miles Davis.

The festival takes place from the 8th to the 12th of July. After an initial buzz that global superstar Prince was to take over the directorship of the festival, it was announced in January that the event's new Artistic Director was in fact Harry Lapp, founder of Strasbourg Jazz Festival and previously in charge of the programme at Jazz à Juan. See http://www.cotedazurrental.com/Juan_les_pins_Jazz_festival.htm for details about the 2011 Juan-les-Pins Jazz Festival - Jazz à Juan- Jazz in Juan Festival

Read the full report from The Riviera Times at http://www.rivieratimes.com/index.php/culture-article/items/jazz-festival-headlining-artists-on-2011-line-up-revealed-1003.html

Miraflores 4 - Torrevieja - Costa Blanca - Spain for holiday rentals

2011-03-12T04:50:00.000-08:00

A modern two bedroom holiday rental apartment approximately 12 mins walk from the beaches and very close to amenities bars restaurants has just been added to the jmlvillas.com website.

It is located at Torrevieja on Spain's Costa Blanca.

• It Sleeps up to 5
•Has 2 bedrooms
•1 bathroom
•Washing machine
•Air conditioning
•Shared pool
•Beach nearby
•Shops nearby
•Bars nearby
•TV
•Restaurants nearby
•Microwave
•Park nearby
•Close to airport
•Golf

There is a go kart racing track within 15 min walk and several golf courses within a 15 min car ride. Murcia airport is around 25 mins by car and Alicante airport about 45 mins by car. Supermarkets are within walking distance and there is an Indian, a Chinese, a Spanish and an English restaurant and a small shop at the entrance to the complex.

The apartment has TV, dvd and hot and cold air conditioning. Airport pick ups and drop offs can be arranged upon request. There are 2 twin beds and one double bed and a pull down bed in the utility room for a fifth guest if required. The utility room contains a washing machine and there is also an iron and ironing board. Bath towels bedding etc are supplied but there are no beach towels. Oven and hob are electric and there is enough cutlery, plates cups glasses etc for at least 8 people.

To find out more visit http://www.jmlvillas.com/villa/822

Juan les Pins Jazz Festival - Jazz à Juan 2011

2011-03-12T00:06:00.000-08:00

The 2011 Jazz Festival at Juan Les Pins, south of France take place between the 14th and the 24th July 2011.

The Box office opens on the 6th April. Artist performing have been announced (but like any event are subject to change)and include BITCHES BREW BEYOND HERBIE HANCOCK - WAYNE SHORTER,MARCUS MILLER, KEITH JARRETT TRIO, JAMES HUNTER, B.B. KING, ROBERT RANDOLPH, CARLOS SANTANA,CURTIS STIGERS, JAMIE CULLUM, RAPHAEL SAADIQ, BEN L’ONCLE SOUL & IMANY, RAUL MIDON & RICHARD BONA QUARTET GILBERTO GIL, HAROLD LOPEZ NUSSA TRIO MANU KATCHE PROJECT and CRAIG ADAMS.

As normal it takes place at Antibes Juan-les-Pins Pinède Gould (Pinewood) with the fabulous backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea.

The Tourist Office have sent us a Press Release - "Dossier de Presse" and the French language version can be found at http://www.cotedazurrental.com/Jazz_%E0_Juan_Dossier_de_Presse_2011.pdf This has information and photos about the artists performing, prices of tickets etc

When the English version is released we will upload the information onto the blog. There is a page devoted to the Juan Les Pins Jazz Festival at http://www.cotedazurrental.com/Juan_les_pins_Jazz_festival.htm

In the meantime here is part of the French Language version of the Press Release for the 2011 festival.

51e JAZZ A JUAN 2011

« Après quelques semaines aux Etats-Unis, on est partis pour le festival d’Antibes, dans le Midi de la France.

On les a tués ». En 1963, Miles Davis est sous le choc : « À Antibes, une immense affiche de moi était placardée près de mon hôtel. J’ai pensé : c’est quand même un monde, on ne me donne pas ça à New York, mais ici, desmilliers de personnes se déplacent spécialement pour t’écouter et te communiquer leur fraternité.

Réunion de famille cette année encore à Juan, qui honore avec faste l’un des plus grands trompettistes de l’histoire du jazz, disparu voici aujourd’hui vingt ans. Tous les artistes qui vont se produire sur la mythique scène de la pinède auront une pensée pour Miles Davis, de Jamie Cullum (« J’ai découvert le festival à travers les enregistrements de Keith Jarrett et de Miles Davis ») à Marcus Miller (« Il m’a appris à être moi-même »), sans oublier bien sur ceux avec lesquels il vécut au plus près l’aventure « Jazz à Juan » : Herbie Hancock et Wayne Shorter. Et puis tous ceux aussi qui, à un moment de leur carrière, ont croisé le parcours solaire de ce mutant de la note bleue. Tous vont se retrouver pour cette célébration annuelle qu’est le festival.

Parce que Juan, comme l’a si bien dit Joshua Redman, « c’est un vrai festival, pas une série de concerts, une véritable communauté qui se retrouve chaque année à un endroit particulier, à un moment particulier. Tout le monde est là autour d’une même passion, le jazz se vit physiquement ». Sur la grande scène bien sur, mais aussi tout alentour, dans les rues et durant les « afters », où le jazz acquiert sa vraie dimension : « Juan-les-Pins, ce n’est pas juste une scène, c’est pour moi mythique ; Juan-les-Pins, c’est comme Carnegie Hall pour le classique.

A chaque fois que j’ai entendu parler de Juan, c’était le sommet de la grandeur du jazz ». (John McLauglin)

economy car hire now being promoted on the insurance4carrental.com site

2011-02-28T10:44:00.001-08:00

Economy car hire is now being advertised on the insurance4carrental.com car hire and car hire excess insurance advertising site.

The product is being offered to those wanting to rent a car. Holiday Autos and Carrentals.co.uk are already being advertised on the site.

Economy Car Hire Ltd became established as a car hire broker in August 2000. They provide car rental in many European Countries using local and national car rental companies and have been expanding rapidly over the past 3 years. They have established a very good reputation within the car rental industry and strive to provide the best service for their customers.

Innovation is the key to their success and they are proud to have built one of the most efficient booking engines in the industry. Economy Car Hire applies the latest technology to their service so that almost every part of it is automated; their online booking process is easy and simple and allows customers to compare service and prices between suppliers.

Experience the difference... Our fully inclusive car hire has no-excess, is hassle-free and has no hidden extras. They are confident that we provide better added value and better service quality than any other car hire broker. Customer relations and loyalty are our key priority.

Based in the UK and established in the year 2000, Economy Car Hire Ltd specializes in Spain, Portugal, Italy, Cyprus, Croatia, Greece and the Greek Islands, Slovenia, and Malta. They provide an excellent service, with the attention to detail only available from a family-run business.

They care about their customers because they make their business!

Their fully inclusive car hire rates include more than any other company, and with no insurance excess or hidden extras, their customers return again and again.

So if you are going on a self catering holiday renting one of those villas being promoted at jmlvillas.com you will need to rent a car.

To find out more about Economy Car Hire follow this link http://www.insurance4carrental.com/Economy_Car_hire.htm

Promenade des Irlandais becomes the Promenade des Anglais in Nice once again

2011-02-14T09:24:00.000-08:00

The Irish Times property section on Thursday 10th February had a headline "Sun sets for holiday homeowners" - Thousands of Irish people who bought homes abroad, for their holidays or as a pension, are selling up – if they can.

The report featured Nice Estate Agent Kirkor Ajderhanyan a director of Agence 107 Promenade, an agency which specialises in selling properties with sea views on Nice’s seafront. He said "There were so many of them that we used to call it the Promenade des Irlandais at the time. But most will make an average gain of 25 to 30 per cent".

Now many Irish are selling up not only in France (where property prices are still OK)buit in Spain ansd Portugal as well.

According to the report "Many bought properties for family holidays, others as a pension, with the benefit of it being an occasional holiday home. Some needed rental income to cover a mortgage, others didn’t.

Some raised mortages against the then high value of their Irish homes; others raised the money abroad against the value of the property purchased. Many are happy with their purchase and are holding onto it while they still have a job at home."

Read the story in full here

If you have a property in the France, Spain or Portugal and want to earn money from it, why not let it as a holiday rental. For a very, very low annual advertising fee (about the price of 2/3 bottles of wine in Ireland) you can advertise it at www.jmlvillas.com This website has been in business 10 years now and for the Nice area there is a specialist site www.cotedazurrentalcom

Beachlands Holidays, Llanelli, Wales now taking bookings

2011-02-03T07:21:00.001-08:00

Just listed on the jmlvillas.com website earlier today

Beachlands Holidays are proud to present to you, two Visit Wales 5* graded luxury holiday homes on the beach in Llanelli, South West Wales. You can chose from Beachlands View, a penthouse apartment right on the beach with stunning views over Carmarthen Bay to the Gower Peninsula.

You may prefer a more traditional holiday home, in which case Beachlands House should be ideal for your needs. Set back from the beach by just 150 metres, this offers superb accommodation for all. Our website shows up to date availability and pricing - you can even BOOK ONLINE securely, ensuring that your chosen accommodation is reserved for you at the click of the mouse! Take a look now - you wont be disappointed!

The holiday homes are in a perfect location to access a whole variety of activities. There are plenty of places around for water based interests, horse riding, cycling, walking, and so much more!

For nature lovers there is an abundance of places to visit, as there is for anyone who loves history. Even the ardent thrill seeker will find something to enjoy!

But first you must decide which of our two wonderful holiday homes suits your needs best!

Both of the holiday homes have been extensively equipped - board games in abundance for the odd rainy day, DVD's, CD's, baby items, & toys and games for the beach. You will even find a selection of Wellington boots for your use - ideal for wet days or 'muddying' about on the mud flats.

All guests have free use (on a share basis) of 2 x adult bikes and 2 x 'tweenager' bikes. Extra bikes or different size bikes can be inexpensively hired locally from the Cycle Hire cabin just 500 metres away.

Planning your next holiday is often difficult - you have to take into account what each member would like and wants from their holiday. Choosing where to go can also be just as difficult. But with miles of stunning coastline, bucket loads of history, nature reserves, rolling countryside, and loads of places to take the kids, your destination has been found!

So take at look at these great self catering holiday rentals at: http://www.jmlvillas.com/villa/821 and make your booking now to secure that fabulous goliday in Wales

Jardins Do Golfe, Vale Do Lobo, Algarve, Portugal

2011-01-25T10:34:00.001-08:00

Great family apartments with pool and near beach just been added to the jmlvillas.com website.

Rent one of these lovely Holiday Apartments in Jardins do Golfe A private complex located next to 5* Vale Do Lobo resort in the sunny Algarve, Portugal. Our apartments are spacious, newly decorated and fully equipped with everything you will need for a great holiday. The condominium is a gated, secure complex, set in peaceful, mature gardens with two pools and only a short walk to the beaches, restaurants, bars, supermarket and golf courses.

During the summer months there is a bar and snack bar at poolside. There are two pools, one pool specifically designed for children with a lovely waterfall and sun-loungers. There are also tennis courts and snack bar. The gardens of Jardins Do Golfe are very large and well maintained offering good space for children to play. All this only 20 minutes drive from Faro airport or just 20 euros from the airport in a taxi!

Find out more at http://www.jmlvillas.com/villa/820 and book your 2011 holiday in the Algarve region of Portugal today.

Irish Tourism in 2011

2011-01-09T07:05:00.001-08:00

Have just added an article to the euro-rentals.com website entitled Irish Tourism in 2011

Two reports appeared at the end of 2010 regarding the state of Irish Tourism. The country needs revenue from tourists, however getting to Ireland and moving about in Ireland if you rent a car can be very expensive.

The article is about personal experiences of unjustified charges by some Irish car rental companies regarding airport collection, cross border travel, phantom use of the M50 toll and insisting a customer pays for car hire excess insurance even when it is declined.

The other part of the article highlifghts the very high costs of taking a car over the Irish Sea compared to crossing the English Cannel from England to France. It also gives advice about these car ferry companies and how they can try and make you pay non existent additional fees for changing the date of travel.

To view the aricle in full follow this link http://www.euro-rentals.com/Irish_Tourism_in_2011.htm

Hopefully the Irish Tourism people will try and persuade those involved in tourism do not "rip off" toursist,especially now when they need every tourist they can get to the country and for those toursist to go away happy.

Holiday Rental Gite in Poitou-Charentes with private pool

2010-11-20T00:45:00.001-08:00

La Commanderie des Templiers is a beautiful stone mill resting on the banks of the River Ne, and surrounded by forest. Dating from the 11th century. It is has just been added to the jmlvillas.com self catering holiday rentals website.

Located close to Barbezieux-St-Hilaire in Poitou-Charentes and surrounded by forest and local vineyards. As the name suggests, the original building was the command post of the Knights Templar during the Crusades.

Chez Meunier is just 4 kms from Blanzac-Porcheresse where you can enjoy lunch at one of the typical French bars, or just sit and watch village life. Barbezieuz-St-Hilaire the nearest small town is 9 kms away.

If you long for the sea, the huge beaches of Royan are about an hour away. Or for city lovers and only 30 minutes away is Angouleme, the capital of Poitou-Charentes and the most beautiful city, famous for its connections to the cartoon industry.

But, if you just want to relax and soak up the sun, there can be no better place than Chez Meunier where your private pool is right outside your door. Surrounded by trees and with a backdrop of birdsong, it is a suntrap all day long.

The owners say "The low, unassuming facade belies the huge amount of space contained within its double fronted stone walls."

The entrance, beside the private pool, leads into a large bright hallway and the ground floor.

Enormous Kitchen/Diner
Overlooking the pool is the bright, airy and fully equipped kitchen/diner.The giant oak table will seat 12, with enough room to entertain or just enjoy yourselves. All the equipment you would expect to find in a full kitchen you will find here.

Sitting Room
Across the hall is the sitting room which again looks out onto the pool and beyond into the woods. This room is comfortably furnished with armchairs and settees, TV, DVD and a supply of books and games. There are also 2 bed-settees should you require beds for 8-9 people.

Master Bedroom and en-suite
The stairs lead up to another large hall and into the stunning Master Bedroom, which has a super king-size sleigh bed under a beautiful vaulted ceiling, showing all the ancient oak beams. This room has a large en-suite wet room and views to the east across the mill stream, Le Ne, and the rising sun.

Double bedroom and Twin bedroom
On this floor there are a further two bedrooms, a double and a twin. Both have views over the forest and are directly opposite the large family bathroom with bath, shower, toilet and hand basin.

The private pool is set in terrace of terracotta paviours for a restful atmosphere, even in the brightest sun. Situated under a large cream awning at the far end of the terrace is the outdoor dining area and to one side a stone barbeque, with charcoal bin and bamboo serving table to make alfresco dining a pleasure not a chore.

All linen and towels are renewed weekly.

Local Area / what you can do:

With almost the maximum hours of French sunshine, the countryside presents a mosaic of colour. The sunflowers, maize, wheat and occasional family group of Limousin cattle grow well here, but this area is best known for its vineyards, supplying grapes for Cognac and the local delicacy Pineau.

The Charente region has many attractive towns and villages and holidays here enable the traveller to experience many interesting and beautiful places.

Here are a few that have been tried and tested, but rest assured, there is something enjoyable here for everyone, every day.

Experience the history and produce

Visit the town of Cognac and take a tour of one of its world famous Brandy Houses - Hennessey, Courvoisier - watch the process and sample the product!

Angouleme, with its beautiful Cathedral in the heart of the Old City, is a delightful place to wander. Explore through the maze of narrow streets and you will find a wide range of pavement bars and gourmet restaurants to suit every taste and pocket.

The famous and fascinating Chapelle des Templiers at Cressac is just a healthy bike ride away from the house. Soak up the aura of its frescoes before pedalling on to Blanzac for a coffee.

Take a drive through the countryside to the pretty town of Jarnac, which straddles the lovely Charente. Here you can enjoy a boat trip on the river, looking out for kingfishers and coypus along its banks.

The city of Bordeaux is less than an hour away with its modern city experiences and a visit to the vineyards of St Emillion and the Medoc region is a great way to spend the day.

For the more adventurous, there are a number of activities available:

Golf enthusiasts can play the championship course at Cognac, beautifully designed around a Chateau and its vineyard. There is also an 18 hole course in Angouleme and a pleasant 9 hole course at nearby Pillac.

The Charente River offers numerous opportunities to hire canoes and kayaks, for an hour or for a day. Aubeterre sur la Dronne with its underground cathedral and voted one of the most beautiful villages in France has a range of options, including canoeing and swimming and is just 25 minutes away.

For the ramblers and cyclists, the quiet lanes and rolling hills provide a perfect setting. There are waymarked paths and bridleways, or you can explore the valleys of the Ne and the Boeme yourselves with local maps.

Enjoy the Arts and Music:

Each year Angouleme hosts the annual Cartoon Strip Festival ( Bande Desinee ) in February.

In Cognac, the annual Blues and Jazz Festival is held for a week every summer and attracts internationally renowned artists.

Barbezieux hosts Music Week, where local and regional musicians play a variety of styles in the bars and around the streets. There are also organised live concerts and exhibitions throughout the summer.

And for the motor-heads!

The Rampart Rally has visitors from far and wide to watch this historic Classic motor race in September. Classic cars from all over Europe meet in Angouleme for two days of spectacular road racing around the tight streets and ramparts. A great experience for young and old.

A market for every day of the week --Throughout the region, almost every village offers weekly markets, fares and occasional exhibitions. In the summer, the 'Farmers Markets' are a fantastic way to sample local produce in the villages, where you often have the chance to buy the meat, cook it on the barbeque and wash it down with local wine!
‘Brocantes' and ‘Vide Grenier' are very popular with the French locals and are so much more than boot sales. Spend a day ferreting through all the stalls and often lunch is available on site too.

How do we find out more? Make a booking? Visit the property Here

French Radio London FRL launches in under 48 hours time

2010-11-15T05:13:00.000-08:00

In under 48 hours time, On Wednesday 17th November 2010 - French Radio London - FRL launches. Here is their Press Release

Ecoutez! November Launch For French Radio London

French Radio London Limited (FRL) is to launch in London early in November having secured a channel slot on the London II DAB digital radio multiplex. FRL will be the capital's first French language terrestrial broadcast station and is aimed primarily at London's 400,000 native French speakers. It will also appeal to the huge Francophile community – 14 million British people visit France every year, the largest group of foreign visitors to La Belle France.

The format will be a lively, music-based mix to appeal to French music tastes, with exciting talk programmes and interviews on a wide range of topics. The enticing blend of entertaining and informative output will be designed to meet the target market's daily appetite for fast-paced, varied listening. In short, a radio station which French-speaking Londoners will tune into regularly. The London II DAB network covers the Greater London area and has the best coverage of any of the three London multiplexes, reaching 4.5 million households (11 million people approximately).

FRL is the brainchild of experienced radio broadcast consultant Pascal Grierson, FRL's CEO, who comments: "We look forward to broadcasting a unique French voice on London's airwaves. This is an exciting development for listeners as well as UK and French based commercial partners who will benefit from a dedicated platform to reach French-speaking London residents and the wider Francophile community. A bientôt sur la DAB!"

Piers Collins of Switchdigital, owners of the London II multiplex, adds: "It's been a pleasure working with Pascal and the FRL team. I'm genuinely delighted to have helped bring this much-demanded station concept to fruition. FRL will, I am sure, soon be the radio station of first choice for many London radio listeners."

FRL is taking over the channel slot released by Smooth Radio, which recently moved to the national Digital One multiplex. FRL will also be available online and on Smartphone apps.

More Information:

Primary listeners will comprise the 350,000+ Francophone residents living in London accessed via mailings, promotions and community activities/events.

FRL’s secondary target audience will be come from the Francophile community and we expect half a million listeners to tune in.

They aim to partner with leading transport organisations, government bodies, trade groups and affiliates to supply easy listening devices, links and mobile apps expanding our community beyond the capital and these shores. Many French visitors planning to come to London part-time or permanently will find FRL a comforting friend close at hand online, on DAB and mobile 3G.

Through these initiatives FRL is set to develop a unique franchise with innovative and exciting output, wrapped up in a transparent business model for business partners to embrace.

With just under two days to the launch they are playing a test "loop" to give a flavour of the station....Sounds goos

Nomad of Antibes

2010-11-01T10:42:00.001-07:00

The Riviera Times is running a story on line entitled "Nomad roams no more"

Rarely has a sculpture been so embraced and so enjoyed, as Spanish artist Jaume Plensa’s ‘Nomad’, now permanently installed on the ramparts of old Antibes and pictured left.

The monumental seated figure dominates the skyline, drawing visitors like a magnet. Metal letters representing thoughts make perfect footholds for the adventurous, who climb to its very top. People sit together on the natural seats the arms provide; the whole area, inside and out, invites exploration and perfectly frames the glorious view of the Mediterranean sea and old town.

Read the entire story by following this link

Winter Sunshine in Vilamoura Algarve Portugal

2010-10-23T00:27:00.000-07:00

It has got a lot colder in the last couple of weeks in northern Europe. On the 10th of October it was 18 degrees on the Sunday evening in London.
The temperatures have dropped and there is frost at night. Is winter approaching too quickly?

What about some warm winter sunshine in Vilamoura, the “In Place to be this year”?

The most popular resort in the Algarve this year was Vilamoura and it has taken over its rivals by far. Could this be because of its fabulous and very stylish Marina and the new extension?

Perhaps because of the pristine “Blue Flag” beaches. Of course there are 5 excellent championship golf courses to test your mettle. Not to mention the difficult and challenging Tennis Club and the more gentle, but not so easy Lawn Green Bowling Club.

If that’s not enough then try your luck at the International Casino with its marvellous Night Club for all ages and all tastes in Music. The town also offers some amazing restaurants especially around the Marina. Wonderful Bars with live music and lovely cafes for morning coffee and cakes.

Are you seaworthy? Big game fishing, chasing Sharks, Marlin and giant Tuna fish, that takes a lot of nerve and stamina. Maybe you can catch one? Scuba diving and windsurfing isn’t as easy as it looks…but being a spectator is also a lot of fun. For relaxation go on a cruise on a Catamaran or a replica of a Portuguese discovery ship.

Then you can have a sunset champagne cruise or go and visit Sir Cliff Richard’s vineyards for a taste of the good life. Dolphin shows or to see the other sea creatures and animals at the Zoomarine are not to be missed!

A local agent has negotiated discounts for the above activities but also on the accommodations. That includes apartments directly on the Marina, townhouses in The Old Village and fabulous Villas within easy walking distance to the amenities such as the Marina and beaches. Needless to say they have lots of other luxury properties along the coast that are featured on the jmlvillas.com website.

The agent can also arrange Wedding and Banquets, Stag and Hen do’s, special events such as Anniversaries, Birthdays, Golf parties, weekend trips and any activities you wish can be custom designed.

For more information Visit Portugal at jmlvillas.com

Tignes is an ideal destination for overseas property buyers who like skiing

2010-10-23T00:04:00.000-07:00

According to a posting on the Intasure Holiday home and second home insurance website blog:-

France's Tignes is an ideal destination for overseas property buyers who like skiing.
Off-piste skiing in Tignes during Spring is "very famous" and is a "perfect time to taste the area", according to Tignes Developpement.

A spokeswoman from the Tourist Office of Tignes Developpement, said during this time of year the French destination is warmer and still has very good snow, holiday home insurance customers may be interested to hear.

Directski.com named the resort in the Alps as the best European ski destination for high altitude skiing.

The spokeswoman said that because Tignes is an high altitude skiing area, the snow is guaranteed.

"Because we are very high and have the glacier, the winter season ends on May 8th," she said, adding: "Tignes has the Grande Motte glacier as well, where it is possible to ski all year long, in the summer too."

She added that it was a sports resort popular with Brits and the younger skier.

For more information about Intasure Holiday Home and Second Home Property Insurance CLICK HERE

Tignes is near Val d’Isère in the French Alps.Tignes is basically three areas made up of Tignes-Le-Lac at 2100 metres, Tignes Les Boisses at 1850 metres and Tignes Les Brevieres at 1550 metres and Val Claret is full of French, British, Dutch and other nationality ski companies running chalets and ferrying skiers about in Land Rovers and mini buses.

I went there in Easter 2007, a time when most ski resorts would be closing because of the late time of year. However because of the glacier, as stated earlier on this page the skiing goes on longer.

At that time, unless you were actually on the pistes the snow was disappearing fast and the air was warm with daily temperatures reaching 23 degrees. Although it was Easter the Christmas feeling is still there with Christmas decorations in the restaurants, up in the streets, Christmas lights on trees and buildings. The “12 days” of Christmas are well extended!

The car parks were full of Belgian, British, Dutch, German, Swiss and even French registered cars whose owners were taking a skiing break over the Easter vacation.

Find out More Here about Tignes

Going skiing soon? Don't forget your travel insurance - Visit this page for more information

La Cordonnerie self catering holiday Cottages in St. Antonin-Noble-Val France

2010-10-18T06:28:00.000-07:00

This delightful self catering holiday rental is being promoted on the jmlvillas.com holiday lettings site.

One visitor who stayed there said "Over the past 40 years of independent holidaying in France, in hotels and houses and camp sites I have never found anywhere so absolutely perfect as La Cordonnerie.This delightful cottage has been so well restored and appointed with the things that are really necessary to make the time spent there such a memorable pleasure. So many places only have the bare essentials but here we had everything we could possibly need to make our stay as comfortable as possible. To be able to BBQ and have dinner on the terrace just outside the door in the cool of the evening was so relaxing we didn't want to go out to eat in the evening. The pool is stunning and to have this facility just a few steps away from our door quite amazing.

For those who love the gentle lifestyle of the remote French countryside - look no further - it is here in abundance.

To gaze masses of stars in a moonlight sky at night and to wake to the sound of the church bells drifting over the hills and see the autumn mist in the valleys is difficult to adequately describe. As an added bonus during our stay, we were delighted to meet the owners and spend a fascinating time just chatting with them over a very nice bottle of wine.So many memories for such a short stay - we will be back."

Q:So when you go there what do you have? A: A farmhouse and Cottage. The farmhouse sleeps 8 and the cottage 4.

Acacia, walnut and fruit trees border the tranquil, sunny garden overlooking the countryside and offering plenty of space for family games and a superior 6x12 metre swimming pool, 2.5m deep, with diving board, plenty of loungers, poolhouse and a childproof locked fence standard to French safety regulations.

Plenty of loungers, a table and chairs are supplied around the poolside. The pool is located in a very sunny open position, but remains private and shielded to outside viewers. On balmy summer evenings a swim in the flood lit pool is exciting and invigorating.

As the pool is not heated, the season for swimmers lasts from mid-May to early October.

The hamlet consists of 9-10 houses, most of which are permanently inhabited and is overlooked by the church of St Pantaléon. There are no shops or other amenities and only local traffic, guaranteeing tranquillity and a peaceful enjoyment of your holiday. Passing the hamlet is the GR 46, part of the great walking routes in France. The area is attractive to lovers of nature and birdsong and in spring becomes a haven of wildflowers and orchids.

The hamlet is generally very quiet, but comes to life in summer during the feast of St Pantaléon on the last Sunday of July, with a grand fête inclusive of a meal, dancing and Musette. Everyone can join in and for €13, take part of a 5 course meal à la champêtre, including plenty of wine! A very good humoured and enjoyable evening!

Q: How do you get there if you are driving from England or Ireland? A: The quickest and most convenient way to reach the property near Vaour is from St. Malo. The roads are all dual carriageway or motorway until Montauban. Total one way cost of Peage (motorway toll) is roughly equivalent to £25.

The journey down (approx. 500 miles 800 kms) will take about 7 to 7.5 hours.

Other information:

Vaour 5 km Penne 5 km St Antonin12 km Bruniquel, Puycelci, Castelnau de Montmiral 15 km Cordes 22 km Gaillac 35 km Albi 42 km Najac 40 km Montauban 40 km Toulouse 80 km Cahors 65 km

Located between the cities of Cahors, Albi and Montauban and within easy reach of the famous " Bastide" towns of BruniqueI, Puycelci, Castelnau de Montmiral, Larroque, Penne, Cahuzac and Cordes, it is an ideal location from which to visit the many historic sites in the region. Albi, a beautiful regional capital on the river Tarn, is very worthwile a visit with its historic cathedral and museum dedicated to the artist Toulouse Lautrec. The fairy city of Carcassonne is 2 hours drive south, the Pyrenees can be reached in 2 hours. The Mediteranean is 3 hours drive away.

The surrounding countryside is rich in wildlife, with a wide variation of landscape from cultivated fields to a forest that is said to be the least polluted in Europe. Walkers can use the nearby GR46, or the many tracks and paths which lead off in many directions. The quiet road and tracks are ideal for cyclists, with a terrain to suit the reasonably fit. Several bicycles are kept on the premises and are provided at no extra cost. St.Antonin has several centres for canoeing on the beautiful river Aveyron. Other sports catered for nearby are horseriding, caving, tennis and golf. Leisure centres are approx 30 mins drive away.

Q: How do I find out more? A: Visit jmlvillas.com Here

Paying the price for poor parking in France

2010-10-17T03:41:00.000-07:00

Anyone taking the risk of parking their cars illegally could face a fine double what they would have to pay today if the National Assembly vote gives the nod to a new proposal.

Parking fines will double in price if the amendment is passed.An amendment put forward by the ruling UMP party was voted on by the Finance Committee in France’s Lower House, and the proposal now goes up before the French deputies as part of upcoming budget debates.

Read the full story in The Riviera Times (from the south of France) by following the link below.
Paying the price for poor parking - The Riviera Times Online

If you are thinking of visiting the south of France in the next few weeks, take a look at our cotedazur rental site. Full of information and self catering accommodation for the Riviera. Eat - Drink - Stay and wake up in the Riviera.

Villa I Poggioli, Bocca di Magra (Ameglia) SP Italy

2010-10-12T05:15:00.000-07:00

These lovely sea front apartments offer a breathtaking sight of the Alpi Apuane in the heart of the Mediterranean nature. They have just been added to the jmlvillas.com Self catering holiday home advertising site.

The location of the Villa makes it perfect as a base for both beach holidays and one day excursions. It is only 10 minutes away from the border of Tuscany and in a couple of hours through the motorway, Florence, Pisa and Lucca are easy to reach.

The well- known elegant Portofino and Le Cinque Terre are recommended tours, but for anyone wishing to discover Liguria’s lesser known charms, enchantig medieval hilltop villages in the unspoilt nature are also suggested.

The special dishes from Liguria can be tasted in the lovely restaurants along the river, where they cook fresh fish that local fishermen daily provide.

The villa is located 50 metres from the sea at the mouth of the River Magra. The sandy beaches are only 5 minutes walking distance. The drugstore is in the village, by the small port. The supermarket is only ten minutes walking distance from the villa

The nearest airports of Pisa and Genoa are about 50 minutes drive through the motorway A12 Villa I Poggioli

Qualunque sia la ragione, la vita frenetica e il logorio di tutti i giorni svaniscono nel momento in cui si trova relax in questo angolo di Paradiso nel Parco Naturale del Magra e del Montemarcello.
Questi deliziosi appartamenti fronte mare offrono una vista mozzafiato delle Alpi Apuane nel cuore della vegetazione mediterranea.

La villa è ubicata in maniera perfetta sia per chi la sceglie per una vacanza al mare sia per chi desidera una base per escursioni nelle vicinanze. Infatti percorrendo la strada lungomare, in pochi minuti troviamo la Toscana, con le città di Firenze, Pisa e Lucca raggiungibili in breve tempo.

L’elegantissima Portofino e Le Cinque Terre sono mete turistiche imperdibili, ma per chi avesse voglia di scoprire il fascino celato della Liguria, si consigliano quei paesini in alto sulle colline immersi in una natura incontaminata.

Per scoprire le specialità gastronomiche della Liguria basta scegliere uno dei tanti graziosi ristoranti lungo il fiume, dove ogni giorno si gusta pesce fresco fornito direttamente dai pescatori del luogo.Villa I Poggioli

Quoi qu’il en soit, la frénésie et le stress du quotidien disparaîtront sitot arrivé dans ce coin de paradis du Parc Regional du fleuve Magra et de Montemarcello.

Les jolis appartements en face de la mer font profiter d’une vue étonnante des Alpi Apuane au coeur de la nature méditerranéenne.

Cette charmante villa est située de façon à ce qu’elle puisse servir soit pour des vacances à la mer, soit comme une aire de repos pour des excursions aux alentours. Elle se trouve juste à dix minutes de l’entrée de l’autoroute qui mène aux villes de Florence, Pisa et Lucques.

Les charmantes stations de Portofino et le Cinque Terre sont les destinations les plus connues, mais pour ceux qui ont envie de découvrir le charme caché de la Ligurie, nous vous conseillons les petits villages perchés dans les collines et abrités par une nature saine.

Pour découvrir la Ligurie gourmande, il suffit de choisir l’un des nombreux petits restaurants le long du fleuve, où l’on peut trouver chaque jour dans son assiette des coquillages et du poisson frais rammenés par le pecheurs du village. Villa I Poggioli

Будни, лихорадочный ритм и усталость от повседневности - все исчезает во время отдыха в этом райском уголке Национального парка Магры и Монтемарчелло.

Из прелестных аппартаментов у моря открывается захватывающий дух вид на Апуанские Альпы с пышной средиземноморской растительностью.

Удобное расположение виллы позволяет провести не только каникулы на море,но и совершить экскурсии в находящиеся поблизости города. По бегущей у
берега моря дороге можно быстро добраться до Тосканы, с ее легко досягаемыми Флоренцией, Пизой и Луккой.

Элегантный Портофино и Чинкве Терре давно являются излюбленными уголками для туристов, а вот для тех , кто хотел бы открыть для себя неповторимое очарование Лигурии, можно посоветовоть посетить построенные высоко на холмах деревушки,окруженные целомудренной природой.

В прекрасных ресторанах, расположившихся на берегу реки, можно попробовать блюда лигурийской кухни, здесь всегда свежая рыба , которую доставляют местные рыбаки. Villa I Poggioli

Euro-Rentals.com gets new front page

2010-09-20T08:16:00.000-07:00

The travel website euro-rentals.com has just had a new front page to represent its importance to visitors within the jml Group's activities.

Euro Rentals.com has been around for a number of years promoting self catering holiday rentals and now the new look front page takes in the additional travel essentials - Car / Motorhome hire - car hire / motor home insurance - Travel insurance and holiday home property insurance.

Advertise on jmlvillas.com and pay via PayPal

2010-08-20T07:25:00.000-07:00

Good news for anyone wanting to advertise their self catering holiday rental at jmlvillas.com the low cost advertising service You can now pay for your advertising by using PayPal.

Of course you don't need a PayPal account either, simply pay with your credit or debit card.

Does it cost a lot to advertise a self catering holiday rental on the site that has been in business for years?

Well actually no. Only £12.50 a year! Yes £12.50 a year including UK VAT....amazing value.

So what do you get for your £12.50? A one page feature for your property in whichever worldwide country it is located in (plus the local region of course), you can upload up to six photos, have as much descriptive material as you want to include, prices of the rental and a web link to your own personal web site.

£12.50 won't break the bank balance, but the lettings that come in, should add to the bank balance.

For more information Click Here

It's that time of year for sun,sea and spend

2010-08-16T04:53:00.000-07:00

The Sunday Mirror had a headline on the 15th August 2010 - "20 ways to cut the cost of your holiday" an article by Sarah Arnold.

She started the article with the seasonal words"It's that time of year for sun, sea... and spend, spend, spend"

It certainly is time with all thos holiday makers about not to mention s series of tips on how to cut down on your summer holiday spending.

A selection of popular topics were covered including use mobile phone charges, airport parking and Travel Insurance. No individual companies were quoted, however if you are looking for travel insurance take a look at those advertising on the jml insurance website at http://www.jml-insurance.co.uk/products.php?id=8

Then there was car hire insurance. "19 Be a canny car hirer- Always take digital photos of the hire car when you pick it up - useful for defending claims of damage. Buy independent cover before you fly. See icarhireinsurance.com and insurance4carhire.com".

See the rest of the article at: http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/top-stories/2010/08/15/20-ways-to-cut-cost-of-your-break-115875-22488622/#ixzz0wlmZNBgT

Dream Ireland Holiday Homes have late summer bargains

2010-08-11T06:03:00.001-07:00

Dream Ireland Holidays have some mid-August deals on offer if you are interested in a self catering holiday in Ireland.

With the school holidays coming to an end in just a couple of weeks, we have some great last minute special offers at some of our most popular Dream Ireland locations for the week ahead.

Here are a couple of examples

Large 4 bedroom house in Dingle
14th Aug - 21st Aug '10
Ard na Mara Holiday Homes Dingle
Dingle, Co. Kerry
Was €1,217.00 Now €799.00

7 nights in Kenmare this summer
14th Aug - 21st Aug '10
Inbhear Sceine Waterside Holiday Homes Kenmare
Kenmare, Co. Kerry
Was €827.00 Now €650.00

Dream Ireland have properties in many locations in Ireland and these are advertised on the jmlvillas,com website.

For more information go to: http://www.jmlvillas.com/country/Ireland

Travesla Marina Baixa, La Cala de Finestrat, Costa Blanca, Spain

2010-08-10T06:55:00.001-07:00

This Beach side apartment at La Cala de Finestrat, Costa Blanca, Spain is ust 80 metres from the beach, this beautifully decorated apartment - which sleeps up to five people - is just 40 minutes away from Alicante airport. Situated in the small Spanish village of La Cala close to real Spanish restaurants and pavement cafes, banks, supermarkets and hair salons.

There is also a market held every Friday. All within walking distance of the apartment. Just 80 metres from the beautiful sandy beach , safe bathing, life guard present on beach during day, with sun beds for hire. Four miles of golden beach, attractions like aqua park, Terri Mitticha (similar to Alton Towers theme park). The apartment is available for up to six months let, but also available for long weekends.

Fly into Alicante Airport from Cardiff - BMI baby or Easy Jet at Bristol. Birmingham also has low-cost flights such as My Travel Light and Fly Be Light. Airport transfers can be arranged, if required by the owner.
It offers:

•Sleeping accommodation for up to 4 guests
•1 bedroom
•1 bathroom
•Washing machine
•Satellite TV
•Room fans
•Beach nearby
•Shops nearby
•Bars nearby
•TV
•Restaurants nearby
•Microwave
•Park nearby
•Close to airport

To find out more go to this page at the jmlvillas.com self catering holiday homes website

Holiday home owners to lose tax breaks on holiday lets

2010-08-04T09:40:00.000-07:00

The National Federation of Property Professionals - NFOPP has circulated this piece of news that will effect owners of self catering holiday homes.

The tax advantages on furnished holiday lets were reinstated by the Coalition after the previous Government abolished them in April..

George Osborne the Chancellor of the Exchequer reversed the measure in the June Budget saying he wanted to help small businesses operating in the tourism industry.However, the Treasury has now said it intends to make it much tougher for home owners to qualify for the breaks.The move comes as the Government prioritises reducing the country’s deficit.

Under the proposals, home owners will need to secure more bookings and will no longer be able to offset their mortgage costs against their personal income. This tax break is one of the main financial reasons for investing in a furnished holiday let as it helps to reduce an individual’s overall tax liabilities.

The new proposals aims to bring the rules in line with EU law and make them focused on commercial businesses rather than those run for personal use.It means more than a quarter of the 65,000 home owners offering holiday lets in Britain will no longer be eligible for the tax benefits from 2011-2012, according to a consultation document published by the Treasury.

The consultation said the changes to the rules needed to be “affordable”.

Mike Warburton, of accountants Grant Thornton, said: “The coalition has recognised the importance of this relief to the holiday industry, but clearly want to restrict a loss to the Exchequer in extending the relief to homes throughout the EU as the law requires.”

The taxman requires certain conditions to be met before the furnished holiday lettings rules can be applied.

The Treasury is now proposing that the property must be available to let for a total of 210 days in a 12 month period, up from the current level of 140 days.And it is suggested that the property must be actually let for at least 105 days during that year, up from just 70 days.

The Treasury also wants to restrict losses from furnished holiday lets so that they can only be set against future profits from that same business. It means losses, such as mortgage interest and any repairs, cannot be offset against other investment incomes, such as from shares or savings.

Accountants warned that some home owners may be forced to sell up to reduce their debts and it could deter those who were thinking about getting a holiday let in the future.

Leonie Kerswill, a tax partner at accountants PricewaterhouseCoopers, said: “Home owners who regularly use their property for family trips, and who do not generally leave much time for other members of the public to use will have to rethink, and ensure that they let their homes for three and a half months each year if they want to be eligible for a 10 per cent Capital Gains Tax rate on an eventual sale.”

There are also other tax breaks that apply to furnished holiday lets, such as capital gains tax rollover relief, which is expected to continue.

* Current rules

1.Must be available to the public for 140 days within a 12 month period
2.Must be actually let to the public for 70 days
3.If the holiday let makes a loss due to the rent not covering the mortgage payments, these losses can be offset against personal tax liabilities

* New rules

1.Must be available to the public for 210 days
2.Must be actually let to the public for 105 days
3.If the holiday let makes a loss due to the rent not covering the mortgage payments, these losses cannot be offset against personal tax liabilities.

Source: NFOPP - For more information go to : http://www.telegraph.co.uk

Simple Caravan Insurance News

2010-07-30T08:01:00.001-07:00

We are in the middle of the summer holiday season and caravans are travelling, parked and ready to go on their holidays.

What about Pre-travel arrangements? Well Simple Caravan Insurance are offering this information:

Pre-travel preparations recommended for caravan owners

Touring caravan insurance users may want to take note of advice issued by the Highways Agency, which manages England's 4,300-mile network of motorways and major A-roads.

Journey planning should be a key part of preparing for caravan holidays as millions of Brits prepare to spend the next few weeks exploring the UK and other overseas destinations.

According to the agency, people should avoid peak travel times, allow plenty of time for their journey, take regular breaks and ensure both their vehicles and passengers are well prepared for the trip.

"In contrast to the daily commute, the holiday getaway is made up of longer, often unfamiliar journeys," explained Steve Crosthwaite, head of the Highways Agency's National Traffic Control Centre.

"Just a few minutes checking the weather and traffic conditions before you set out can take a lot of hassle out of your journey," he explained, adding people should listen to the radio on their way for any updates.

Tyresafe also recently advised caravan owners to check their tyres before starting their journeys.

Get a touring caravan insurance quote today from Simple Caravan Insurance Here

Remember if you are hiring a motorhome / campervan you can do this here via Holiday Autos

If you want to buy great value motorhome excess insurance when you hire one and pay only £6.99 for this insurance find out more with Questor Insurance Here

Essential Travel Warns of Hidden Costs

2010-07-29T02:35:00.000-07:00

Essential Travel Warns Holidaymakers to Beware of Hidden Costs

“Hidden charges” could add 25 per cent or more to the cost of airport parking, reveals EssentialTravel.co.uk

July 29, 2010 - It’s often the last thing holidaymakers think about before they head off on their travels but those opting to drive to the airport this summer could find themselves out of pocket when arranging their airport parking, according to leading travel essentials provider EssentialTravel.co.uk.

Research by EssentialTravel.co.uk has shown that airport parking could holidaymakers 25 per cent more than they expect, due to “hidden charges” levied by airport parking providers.

The company has revealed that a week’s airport parking, which can be booked for as little as £20.00, could creep up by an additional £5.00 once booking charges, credit card fees and cancellation waivers are taken into account.

In addition, sun-seekers could find themselves as much as £10.00 out of pocket if they decide to cancel their airport parking.

“Holidaymakers have grown wise to the 'hidden costs' associated with low-cost airlines and are becoming experts on how to avoid them but most don’t apply the same tactics to booking their airport parking,” says Stuart Bensusan, EssentialTravel.co.uk.

“Parking at the airport can be a really affordable option, but only if you do your home- work and make sure you are aware of any hidden 'add-ons' or extra costs.”

To help customers save money EssentialTravel.co.uk has opted to reduce or eliminate its own cancellation waivers, charges and credit card fees in time for the peak summer holiday period 4. The company has scrapped its two per cent credit card fee completely, reduced the cancellation waiver from £0.99 to just £0.50 and instead of charging a £9.50 cancellation charge, customers will now only forfeit £5.00 if they wish to cancel a booking that has been made without paying the cancellation waiver. EssentialTravel.co.uk has also reduced the cancellation notice period from 48 hours before arrival to just 12.

For information on Essential Travel - Travel Insurance CLICK HERE

For Information on Essential Travel - Car Hire Insurance - CLICK HERE

Chalet Miranda, Champex, Switzerland

2010-07-24T07:35:00.001-07:00

We might be inmid summer in late July, however the ski season is not too far away.

Chalet Miranda in Champex, Switzerland has just been listed on the jmlvillas.com website it is available in the summer as well.

New, luxury Alpine chalet covering 150 sqm with reasonable South facing garden, in the beautiful unspoilt peaceful village of Champex-lac situated in the Swiss Canton of Valais at an altitude of 1420 m. Superb skiing within the village, and within easy distance of several other ski resorts, including Verbier which is 40 minutes away.

Described as the 'Little Jewel' of the Valais region with 300+ days sunshine, the lakeside village of Champex-lax is both a summer and winter resort and offers a safe family environment or a peaceful retreat in the heart of the Swiss Alps.

This delightful chalet •Sleeps 8 •Skiing or Walking •Winter or Summer •Luxury Accommodation .

Chalet Miranda is newly constructed, and has been finished to a very high standard with balconies and shuttered windows. It is suitable to sleep Up to 6 adults, and 2 children.

It is built on 3 levels, and has 3 good sized bedrooms and 2 fully tiled bathrooms/shower rooms. One bedroom has a Queensize bed and the other 2 house single beds, the largest bedroom also has a pair of bunkbeds for children.

The central area is open-plan with a typical traditional Swiss fireplace and plenty of comfortable seating. This floor has very efficient underfloor heating throughout and a new flatscreen hdTV with cable and several English channels including BBC. There is also a video with a selection of films available. The chalet is stocked with plenty of towels and sheets.

The chalet houses a luxury modern fitted open-plan kitchen, with an AEG oven, Siemens hob, seperate AEG fridge, freezer and dishwasher. AEG washing machine and seperate tumble dryer are in the downstairs utility. There are an iron, hairdryer and other essentials.

Chalet Miranda also has a sunny South facing garden and large private parking area at the front. It is on a private road shared by 4 other chalets.

Champex is 1.5 hrs drive from Geneva Airport circling the beautiful Lake Geneva. It is 2.5hrs from Chambery Airport and 40 minutes from Sion Airport. Champex borders the French & Italian Alps.

Excellent Swiss rail facilities from Geneva Airport via Martigny to Orsiere which is 15 minutes drive from the chalet.

Immediate local facilities include an immaculate outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts, table tennis, beach volley ball, hiking trails, cross country and off-piste skiing, biking paths, boating and fishing on the lake. All these are very close and walkable from the Chalet. Paragliding and bungee jumping facilities are nearby.

There are beautiful walks around Champex-lac, and for the more adventurous, the village is on the Mont Blanc 'walk'.

There are boulangeries, and various other shops plus several quality restaurants, cafes and bars. There is also an excellent ski-hire and walking boot hire outlet.

The famous lakeside town of Montreux is 45 minutes from Champex with its annual jazz festival. This is accessible from the Castle of Chillon where you can board a steamer over the lake to Montreux.

Martigny is the nearest large town. Here you can find great shops, galleries and several Museums (including the Great St Bernard Dog Museum!).

For fans of the Da Vinci Code, a visit to the capital of the Valais region, Sion, is a must.

Swiss wines are a well kept secret within Switzerland, and the Valais wines are possibly considered to be the best. Most of these wines can only be bought within Switzerland as they only export 1%.

Winter: Champex itself is a charming crowd free resort with 25km of piste with four ski lifts including a nursery slope, also a further 30km of cross country routes. A small branch of Swiss Snowsports School (SSS) operates, and two restaurants on the mountain cater for the resort.

Winter time normally runs from December 18th to 17th April

Summer: In summer the well-marked network of walking and hiking routes allow one to enjoy the local wildlife, flora and fauna and the delightful scenery of the Swiss mountain countryside. Champex is on the Mont Blanc to Zermatt walkers route. From the chalet three glaciers can be reached, with two refuges within a 4 to 6 hour walk from the top of the chair lift.

Chair operating times: 08.30am-12.15pm then 13.30pm-17.15pm -Summer time is from 11th June to 25th September and then in October, the chair operates weekends only.

For more information please visit the Chalet Miranda Page at jmlvillas.com HERE

If you are going skiing don't forget your ski insurance. Find out more here

Villa Astonita Gata de Gorgos Costa Blanca Spain

2010-07-22T12:06:00.001-07:00

This luxury villa has just been advertised on the jmlvillas.com holdiday homes rental advertising site.

Located in the Costa Blanca, Spain the country that recently one the World Cup football trophy for the first time.

A delightful, spacious three bedroomed house offering excellent accommodation for up to 6 people. Lovely friendly community with community pool very close to property. The little town of Gata de Gorgos is at the bottom of the hill and is famous for its craft work, including cane furniture and guitar making. The stunning beaches of Javea are a short drive away, as is the pretty town of Moraira.

The bustling town of Denia is also only a short drive away. La Sella golf course is a few minutes drive.

•Sleeps up to 6
•3 bedrooms
•2 bathrooms
•Dishwasher
•Washing machine
•Room fans
•Shared pool
•Shops nearby
•TV
•Microwave
•Golf

The property has its own private, shaded parking space immediately outside the property. There is a good sized patio which is equipped with seating and sun loungers. There is a large parasol for use over the dining table and a retractable sun blind over the terrace, as well as an undercover terrace area, thus ensuring you can always provide shade, even at the height of summer. There is a community pool, with gated access, very close to the property.

Within a five minute drive there is a large supermarket and an excellent restaurant which also has a bar area for light meals and with Sky sports.

On the development there are two children's play areas and a shady picnic area with tables and benches. The nearest beach is Javea, which is approximately 15 minutes by car, where you will find an extensive range of bars and restaurants to suit all tastes and budgets. Javea is a very family friendly town. Excellent beaches and facilities can also be found in nearby Moraira and Denia. La Sella golf is approximately 10 minutes away by car.

More information at http://www.jmlvillas.com/villa/793

Algarve summer news

2010-07-10T00:06:00.001-07:00

Just had some information in from The Algarve in southern Portugal

Villa Margarida:

Villa Margarida (pictured above)is a large and comfortable six bedroom villa with pool and tennis court that has recently been completely refurbished to a high standard. It is situated in the picturesque fishing village of Carvoeiro.The villa has air-conditioning. Accommodation consists of two double bedrooms and two twin bedrooms (which can be made into doubles if required). There are a further two bedrooms which can sleep three in each bedroom in a combination of single or double beds, as required. All bedrooms have either an en-suite bathroom or shower room. Car not essential. Peak season prices are €4800 euros per week. We also have a simpler 3 bedroom villa in Vilamoura for €1250 euros per week for July and August.

Santa Eulalia:

There is alovely brand new little complex is situated in the area of Santa Eulalia within the “New Town” of Albufeira that is known as Praia da Oura and encompasses two of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, both having a Blue Flag Award for safety, cleanliness and beauty. The location is relatively quiet and yet on the edge of the buzz of “The Strip”. This pretty little resort caters to both singles and families where small children are looked after in a very safe environment. Car not necessary. Two bedroom villa for €1400 euros per week. One bedroom for €950 euros per week. These are peak prices for July and August.

Available in Vilamora:

This is a lovely 2 bedroom, ground floor apartment located in the highly popular area of the Old Village in Vilamoura. It has been newly decorated and refurbished giving it a fresh appearance. It has its own small private garden terrace leading from the living room. The complex has 3 communal swimming pools, all within easy walking distance. The local supermarket, bars and restaurants are all on your doorstep making it an extremely convenient holiday apartment for those that do not wish to drive. Fully air conditioned. Available for the whole month of August for €900 euros per week.

To find out more and make a booking go to the Portugal section at the jmlvillas.com website HERE

Advertising your villa can cost a lot less than £5 a month

2010-07-08T05:58:00.001-07:00

Just had a an email span flyer from a villa advertising service for owners of self catering holiday homes.

They are inviting home owners to advertise their holiday homes for only £5 a month. (£60 per year) Sounds very good. They have been around since 2008.

This made us look at our costs at jmlvillas.com. The current annual charge is £11.75 including VAT that is around 98 pence a month. The UK's Chancellor of the Exchequer in the Conservative Liberal Democrat Government recently announced that VAT would be increasing in the UK from January 2011. We decided to look at our prices and have kept them very low for a number of years to help owners of holiday properties be able to market their holiday homes.

jmlvillas.com has been in business since 2001 (in association with www.euro-rentavilla.com)

The bad news is that we will be increasing the cost of advertising in the next couple of month, but only to £12.50 (Twelve pounds fifty pence) a year including VAT and when the new VAT level come in next January. our price of £12.50 will not increase.

£12.50 per year works out at £1.05 a month. That is still excellent value.

So what do you get for your £12.50 ?

No Commission or booking fees for owners or renters

Web site advertised in Holiday Magazines

6 photos per ad

You load up your own details -including availability, prices & photos.

You change your details and photos whenever you want by using your own password.

Live link to your personal website

Excellent search facilities

Main worldwide holiday destinations covered. If the country is not already listed - we will add it.

Advice for property owners and renters on the site

Payment accepted by secure credit card on line

To find out more Click Here

Santa Eulalia Townhouses, Albufeira Portugal

2010-06-24T23:34:00.000-07:00

Another fine property in the Algarve that has been added to the extensive portfolio of properties available in the Algarve in Portugal with jmlvillas.com the low cost villa advertising service.

This lovely brand new little complex is situated in the area of Santa Eulalia within the “New Town” of Albufeira that is known as Praia da Oura and encompasses two of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, both having a Blue Flag Award for safety, cleanliness and beauty. The location is relatively quiet and yet on the edge of the buzz of “The Strip”. This pretty little resort caters to both singles and families where small children are looked after in a very safe environment. Golfers are welcome as the Sheraton and Balaia clubhouses are very close by with countless others within a short driving distance.

The Luxury Townhouses in Albufeira by the Beaches
(Reference:791)

•Sleeps up to 4
•2 bedrooms
•2 bathrooms
•Dishwasher
•Washing machine
•Satellite TV
•Air conditioning
•Shared pool
•Beach nearby
•Shops nearby
•Bars nearby
•TV
•Restaurants nearby
•Microwave
•Golf

Well it might feel like summer here in England this week, it didn't this time last week and who knows what it will be like next week.

The weather forecast for Faro for the next 10 days is sunshine and temperatures reaching 27 degrees so why not make your arrangements now?

If you don't need to go in school holidays, think about September, it is normally very pleasant then.

More information can be found at: http://www.jmlvillas.com/villa/791

The Old Village, Vilamoura

2010-06-24T23:27:00.000-07:00

A Two Bedroom Luxury Apartment in The Old Village Vilamoura in the Algarve region of Portugal has recently been listed in the "Luxury Apartments Alargeve" section of the jmlvillas.com website.

The complex has 3 communal swimming pools, all within easy walking distance. The local supermarket, bars and restaurants are all on your doorstep making it an extremely convenient holiday apartment for those that do not wish to drive.

It offers:
•Sleeping accommodation for up to 4
•2 bedrooms
•2 bathrooms
•Dishwasher
•Washing machine
•Satellite TV
•Air conditioning
•Shared pool
•Beach nearby
•Shops nearby
•Bars nearby
•TV
•Restaurants nearby
•Microwave
•Lake nearby
•Close to airport
•Golf

Luxuries: Log fire, DVD player General: Air conditioning, TV, Satellite TV Standard: Kettle, Toaster Utilities: Cooker, Microwave, Fridge, Washing machine Rooms: Bedrooms (2), Bathrooms (1) Furniture: Single beds (2), Double beds (1), Dining seating for 4, Sleeps maximum of 4 Other: Linen and towels provided. Outdoors: Balcony / Terrace, Shared outdoor pool (unheated), Shared garden Access: Parking space Further details indoors: Living/Dining Room with English TV and DVD, and doors opening onto the garden Fitted kitchen with fridge, washing machine, electric oven and hob, microwave, kettle, toaster, iron & board Double bedroom with fitted wardrobes Single Bedroom, with extra pull out bed, if required Shower room Further details outdoors: Exterior Parking Available surrounding complex 3 x Communal Swimming Pools surrounded by landscaped gardens.

To find out more go to: http://www.jmlvillas.com/villa/792

Luxury apartment on Vilamoura Marina

2010-06-14T06:43:00.000-07:00

Edificio Vilamoura Marina, Vilamoura, The Algarve, Portugal is now available at the jmlvillas.com self catering holidays homes website.

This is a most beautifully situated apartment with spectacular views of Vilamoura Marina It is perfectly located for immediate access to the Marina with all its shops, bars and restaurants and only a short walk to the nearest beach.

This private apartment complex is small and intimate and benefits from its own swimming pool, making this a perfect holiday apartment in every way. Private underground parking is also available. The apartment has been furnished and equipped to a high standard and in a tasteful manner in keeping with the property. The apartment has air-conditioning in the living room and for winter lets, heating is available throughout.

•Sleeps up to 4 •2 bedrooms •2 bathrooms •Dishwasher •Washing machine •Satellite TV •Air conditioning •Room fans •Shared pool •Beach nearby •Shops nearby •Bars nearby •TV •Close to River •Restaurants nearby •Microwave •Lake nearby •Close to airport •Golf

There is a Living/Dining Room with TV (limited Satellite service), CD player

Fully covered in terrace area, with TV used for watching Videos and DVDs

Kitchen fully fitted and equipped with washing machine, dishwasher, electric cooker and hob, fridge/freezer

Double Bedroom with fitted wardrobes

En-suite shower room

2nd Bedroom (twin) with fitted wardrobes

En-suite Bathroom with full suite

Car parking Space in Underground Garage

Swimming pool and sun deck

For an anniversary or birthday we can make special arrangements including live music. These are either at discounted wholesale prices or at normal price BUT with transport included. We have just organised a cute little wine tasting trip to Sir Cliff Richard’s Vineyards, is on appointment from 4-6 p.m. and includes transport there and back for 15 euros per person. Bit of fun after the beach and before dinner…get you in the mood!!

Its a great time to go to southern Portugal now and further information can be found at: http://www.jmlvillas.com/villa/789

Looking for Travel insurance? Visit http://www.jml-insurance.co.uk/products.php?id=8

Looking for Car hire in the Algarve? Visit http://www.holidayautos.co.uk/cgi-bin/liveweb.sh/QSearch.w?ctryref=GBR&lang=EN&aff=xjeffreymilnerltd

Looking for car hire insurance? Visit http://www.insurance4carrental.com/

Aqua Mar Apartments, Vilamoura, Portugal

2010-06-14T06:32:00.000-07:00

Self catering - Aqua Mar Apartments, Vilamoura, The Algarve, Portugal was added onto the jmlvillas.com holiday homes website last Friday.

This New luxury apartment offers:
•Sleeps up to 4 •2 bedrooms •2 bathrooms
•Dishwasher •Washing machine •Satellite TV
•Air conditioning •Shared pool •Beach nearby
•Shops nearby •Bars nearby •TV •Close to River
•Restaurants nearby •Microwave •Lake nearby •Close to airport •Golf

As well as having immediate access to the Marina with all its shops, bars and restaurants, it is also only a short walk to the nearest beach. This private apartment complex has its own swimming pool and gardens. The apartment has been furnished and equipped to a high standard and in a simple, tasteful manner in keeping with the modern style of the property. The apartment has air-conditioning and heating throughout. The 5th floor is reached by a lift.

The Living/Dining Room has a large screen TV, DVD, comfortable seating, dining table and 6 chairs, coffee table, air-conditioning, large windows leading to terrace with Marina and ocean views

Guest toilet with toilet and sink

Fully fitted and equipped kitchen with Fridge/Freezer, Dishwasher, Washing Machine, Microwave, electric Hob and Oven, Kettle, Toaster and Coffee Machine

Master Bedroom, double bed, wooden flooring, fitted wardrobes, full length mirror, air-conditioning, full window leading to terrace with views of Marina and ocean

En-suite bathroom, with Jacuzzi bath, overhead shower, toilet, bidet, single sink vanity unit, and heated towel rail

Bedroom 2, twin beds, wooden flooring, fitted wardrobes, full length mirror, air-conditioning, windows leading to terrace with views of Marina and ocean

Spacious shower room, with modern electronic multi function shower, toilet, bidet, single sink vanity unit, and heated towel rail. Exterior:

Large swimming pool

Children’s swimming pool

Lawned gardens

Underground parking

Its a great time to go to the Algarve now and further information can be found at: http://www.jmlvillas.com/villa/788

Looking for Travel insurance? Visit http://www.jml-insurance.co.uk/products.php?id=8

Looking for Car hire? Visit http://www.holidayautos.co.uk/cgi-bin/liveweb.sh/QSearch.w?ctryref=GBR&lang=EN&aff=xjeffreymilnerltd

Looking for car hire insurance? Visit http://www.insurance4carrental.com/

Setter Farm House, Gulberwick Shetland Islands Scotland Holiday Rental

2010-06-10T22:55:00.000-07:00

This attractive old style renovated property located approx 320 metres off the Gulberwick Loop Road with stunning views over Gulberwick Bay in the Shetland Islands has just been listed as as a Holiday Letting on the jmlvillas.com site and Scottish Cottage Rental.com site

The Moorpark Family Golf Centre & Public service bus route – is only 800 metres. See www.visitshetland.com where you will find the Golf Centre mentioned and also a site to find what Shetland has to offer. Only 3 miles from the centre of Lerwick. Gulberwick is a relatively safe environment for kids to play – with a new play park located at the public hall. The public hall brings the community together for social evenings & Sunday Teas in the Summer months

It has two bedrooms - Both bedrooms have dressing table, bedside cabinets, recessed area with hanging rails/storage drawers & kingsize beds, 1 spare fold-up bed located in one of the bedrooms, making the property available to sleep up to 5 persons.

There is a bathroom with bath/shower over, wc, heated towel rail.

LIVING ACCOMMODATION: Lounge with 3-seater leather sofa, 2 leather chairs, 1 leather recliner chair with footstool, rocking chair, nest of tables, television unit, T.V, Video, D.V.D Player, electric fire, drinks globe.

Fully fitted light oak kitchen & fully equipped with pots/pans, plates, cutlery, kettle, toaster, electric hob, electric oven/grill, microwave, fridge-freezer. Dining table accommodates 10

OTHER INFO: Washer/Dryer under worktop in front entrance of the house. Underfloor heating provided — covers bathroom, hallway, kitchen & living room. Children Welcome No Smokers & No Pets - FREE WIFI

LOCAL INFO:Facilities in Lerwick - There are Two Supermarkets — Scottish Co-op & Tesco Banks — TSB/Bank Of Scotland/Royal Bank Of Scotland/Alliance & Leicester/Clydesdale Bank Plenty of restaurants,take-away establishments & pubs — Shetland directory provided in property which lists all residential & business addresses.Moorpark Family Golf Centre nearby. Beach about a 5-10 minute walk from the property. Good hills for keen walkers.

It is a great time to visit the Shetland Islands - We are nearly in mid-June and there will be long days and short nights. The weather today - 11th June 2010 - There will be light rain, however, from Saturday 12th and all next week through till Sunday 20th June (that is as far the Weather.com forecast goes is sunny.

To find out more information visit the Setter Farm House, Gulberwick page at jmlvillas.com

Prices crash for euro holidaymakers in eurozone, but transatlantic tourists face a price hike

2010-06-09T08:01:00.001-07:00

Royal Mail Group - News Release

09/06/2010

In its latest Holiday Costs Barometer charting costs in popular holiday destinations, Post Office Travel Money reports that prices have plunged in top Eurozone destinations, led by Portugal and Spain - by as much as 42 per cent year on year. In sharp contrast, the new barometer shows a 31 per cent rise in US prices for the 10 tourist items surveyed. Key findings include:

• Prices have dropped by 42 per cent in Portugal (The Algarve), which is cheapest in the survey. At £38.61, the barometer basket in the Algarve is almost half the price in Italy, most expensive of the Eurozone destinations (50.8 per cent).

• Runner up Spain is down 40 per cent, based on current exchange rates.

• With the exception of Italy (on par with 2009), prices are lower in all the Eurozone countries surveyed by the Post Office.

• Sterling’s strengthening against the euro means that past winner Bulgaria has fallen from the top spot in the Holiday Costs Barometer, although it is still in third place and is cheapest of the non-euro destinations. Together with Portugal and Spain, Bulgaria has pulled away from the competition with prices for these destinations at least one-third cheaper than any other country.

• Prices are three per cent cheaper than a year ago in Croatia but on par with 2009 levels in Turkey, which has suffered from sterling’s slip against the Turkish lira.

• The USA is the most expensive destination surveyed in the Post Office Holiday Costs Barometer. At £103.87 for items including a meal and light refreshments, prices in Florida have risen by 31 per cent since last year.

• Prices have also pushed up in Egypt - a destination previously identified by the Post Office as great value for UK holidaymakers. The Holiday Costs Barometer shows a 39 per cent price hike for the 10 items surveyed, mostly accounted for by the increased cost of an evening meal for two.

Sarah Munro, Post Office Head of Travel Money said: "The good news for UK holidaymakers planning trips to the eurozone is that the Holiday Costs Barometer reveals cost reductions in most of the eurozone destinations but most notably in Portugal and Spain where the price crash is in the region of 40-42 per cent compared with a year ago. The biggest discounts have been on the cost of eating out, as eurozone restaurants battle for business with mouth-watering meal incentives."

"Transatlantic tourists face paying more for meals, drinks and other basic items once they arrive in the USA this year. Sterling has dropped by nine cent compared with May 2009 and, what’s worse, the Post Office Holiday Costs Barometer shows that local resort prices have risen significantly, making our basket of goods 31 per cent more expensive this year."

Source: The Post Office - Royal Mail

Looking for a self catering holiday rental in the destinations mentioned in the above news release? Take a look at www.jmlvillas.com

Holiday autos goes further for your holiday

2010-05-26T06:42:00.000-07:00

Holiday Autos who have been featured on the jmlvillas.com holiday homes website for a number of years have just sent this information out, just in time for the summer holidays.

They go further in so many ways: You get more than just car hire here. Take a look. From van and motorhome hire to travel extras, from their price match guarantee, to their customer charter, we cover everything you need. And hot off the press, you can now get latest news and updates via Twitter.

Go to their website here to make your holiday autos car rental booking: http://www.holidayautos.co.uk/cgi-bin/liveweb.sh/QSearch.w?ctryref=GBR&lang=EN&aff=xjeffreymilnerltd

In London or going there? Spot the holiday autos taxi! They have been hard at work putting their little car all over london taxi cabs. And if you haven't noticed yet, you will! Next time you flag one down be sure to take a look.

eCar insurance helping to cut fuel & holiday costs

2010-05-26T06:28:00.001-07:00

Just had an email from e car insurance.

The cost at the pumps have hit a record high and we’re now paying an average £1.21 a litre for unleaded. However, while we wait to see if the new coalition will reduce fuel prices, we have compiled a list of fuel saving hints and tips to offset the impact of sky-high fuel costs:

Pump up tyres - under inflated tyres makes your car work harder and use more fuel

Empty your boot - carrying unnecessary weight makes the car less efficient

Streamline your car - remove external racks when not required for less drag

Drive less - or share the commute with friends and colleagues

Get your car serviced - if you haven’t, it’s less likely to be operating at its most efficient.

Finally: Good value car Insurance: OK, not a petrol saving tip, but still a great way to cut motoring costs! Find out more here at http://www.jml-insurance.co.uk/index.php?id=76

Are there going to be car hire shortages in the summer of 2010

2010-05-26T02:32:00.000-07:00

In the summer of 2009 there were major problems for people trying to rent cars in popular locations in Europe. A major factor was because car hire companies had not taken on the normal levels of vehicles.

It looks like prices are increasing to cut down on demand in some destinations. Could we be in for serious shortage problems again this year, or will higher prices with personal travel budget restrictions meant people won't rent a car on holiday?

View full aricle here at: http://www.insurance4carrental.com/car_hire_shortages_again_10.htm

Dogs no longer welcome at The Ferry Cookham

2010-05-24T03:59:00.001-07:00

The Ferry pub and restautant at Cookham, Berkshire used to be a great place to go and have lunch at outside on the terrace overlooking the River Thames. We would park the car near the Spade Oak pub near Bourne End and walk across the single track railway line, past Bourne End Marina and over the bridge through the riverside fields to The Ferry.

It was great and even in winter so we could sit outside (as naturally dogs are not allowed inside) and staff even put on the electric heaters. Last Saturday we did the same walk on a very hot May day. We had not been there for several months and walked onto the terrace with our dog. We were politely told that we could not being the dog onto the terrace. Apparently the management at The Ferry had banned dogs about a month ago as a result of complaints from customers. We were told we could sit at a table near the front door, however there was no sun umbrella there and it was hot.

In the end we were able to tie her up to railing at one side that dogs can still stand (or sit in) and they do still however provide bowls of water for your dog as well. Whilst there another couple cam along with their dog and opted for the hot seats and table near the front door in the car park.

It does seem a shame that the people running this delightful place should take this attitude to dogs. I recollect that there were always other dogs when we used to go there and obviously they are doing what we did, attaching their dogs to the railings. The food and drink is still naturally good, but is does seem a shame that some of the former guests are now being banned. Hopefully this was not because of rowdy behaviour or being drunk.

This was probably never happen in France where it is perfectly normal to bring small to medium size dogs into restaurants and actually indoors.
Maybe the Ferry at Cookham management don't like dogs. Hopefully sometime they will have a change of thought.

See also: http://cookham.com/reviews/index.php?cmd=showreviews&businessId=11 as there are others who are not happy with the situation, Hope you listen to your customers views, Ferry at Cookham

Cama Roca, Villaverde, Near Corralejo Fuerteventura Canary Islands

2010-05-24T03:36:00.000-07:00

This exceptional country detached property was added to the jmlvillas.com website yesterday (23rd May 10)

It Offers:
3 Bedrooms - Comprising of 3 spacious double bedrooms. The master bedroom being on the second floor and has its own en-suite bath/shower room and balcony. All rooms have either fitted wardrobes or separate wardrobes. This property is available for 2 or up to 6 persons.

There are two bathrooms. One as ensuite with master bedroom and the second a family bathroom. All fully tiled and fitted to a high standard.

The kitchen is a fully fitted and equipped modern kitchen. Complete with all modern appliances, ceramic hob, oven, fridge freezer. There is a spacious utility room off the kitchen with washing machine and freezer. There is also an utility room with washing machine and freezer.

The Living Room features walls and corner fire place gives this living room the Spanish country villa feel. With plenty of comfortable seating, garden views and good quality furnishings in both living and dining area. Dining table seating for 6 persons. Patio doors from both the living and dining areas.

Cleaning: Linen and towels are provided and are laundered once per week. Additional services are available (mid-week clean and laundry, daily maid service).

Amenities: A heated oval swimming pool, Jacuzzi spa, pool table, B’b’Q with preparation area, half covered conservatory with plenty of seating. Large well stocked garden in which to enjoy on the sun beds. Gated drive area and covered parking bay. Many top quality yet affordable local restaurants, baker, café/pizza take a way, supermarket, furnishing store, church, bus service in the village.

Additional Info: Fuerteventura boasts some of the finest surf beaches and lagoons in the canaries, the famous Corralejo sand dunes are 10 mins drive from Villaverde and El Cotillo lagoon beaches and the desolate white sandy beaches of the north coast only 15 mins drive. There are the best Restaurants in Villaverde is still remarkably inexpensive. El Horno and Casa Marcus, and Mahoh Restaurant. All have gained awards for their superb menus. There are also 2 superbly stocked supermarkets. La Rosita museum and the Lava Tube are both situated on the outskirts of Villaverde. New shopping centres have recently opened in both Correlajo and Puerto del Rosario. Golf is available in Caleta de Fuste, Las Playitas and Morro Jable in the south. Many new cultural centres have opened to promote the island’s Mahon culture.

The property itself is approached by private gates that lead into the sweeping gravel frontage of the villa. A covered and sheltered parking area with space for up to 2 other cars. A car is essential to see and explore the island, if you are looking for one why not try Holiday Autos at http://www.holidayautos.co.uk/cgi-bin/liveweb.sh/QSearch.w?ctryref=GBR&lang=EN&aff=xjeffreymilnerltd

For more information on this great holiday property go to the jmlvillas.com website at http://www.jmlvillas.com/villa/785

Finally don't forget your travel insurance

7 villas at Agios Nikitas in Lefkas Greece

2010-05-24T03:29:00.001-07:00

Idilli villas presents seven brand-new properties that have been built with pools on the outskirts of the charming resort of Agios Nikitas in Lefkas. These properties have just been addrd to the jmlvillas.com website this morning.

Located in the Greek Island of Lefkas, full details can be found at: http://www.jmlvillas.com/villa/786

Here is a brief description:

Idilli villas have their own private space and patios and are situated in different levels with each other. Perched on the rocky peninsula, they enjoy spectacular sea views right in front of the villas! Set in a peaceful location, yet only a walking distance from the village centre where you will find a selection of shops, bars and tavernas, where you can sit and relax while enjoying some local fare and the low key nightlife!

Please note that all villas are equipped to the highest standards with individual barbeques, air-condition, fully equipped kitchen facilities, satellite TV’s, nice furniture and excellent built quality! There are huge balconies in all premises and a number of private shaded relaxing areas around the houses. Parking space is provided before entering the villas in order to avoid traffic and noise.

Finally don't forget your travel insurance

Looks like Stena HSS is running again from Wales to Ireland

2010-05-19T14:19:00.000-07:00

Looking at the Stena Line website it appears that the HSS Stena Explorer (pictured left) will be in operation from Wednesday 26th May.

The service was cut at the start of 2010 with the fast ferry resting in Holyhead. At the time Stena announced on their website it was being refitted, but appears taken out of service till the summer schedule was effective.

A couple of years ago the HSS crossed the Irish Sea from Holyhead to Dun Laoghaire and then it was cut back to once a day. The time of the crossing was increased to save fuel. Stena started to use the much smaller Stena Express that is used on the Fishguard to Rosslare route in the summer. The only problem is like the Irish Ferries small fastcraft, whenever the sea was rather rough the service did not operate.

Unfortunately there are only two companies operating on the Dublin/Dun Laoghaire - Holyhead rounte so not too much competion. This means prices are very high. The ferry companies charge per passenger and this can be expensive. Unlike the ferries travelling to France from Britain and Ireland, they don't charge for pets, so you can bring several dogs and cats for no extra charge!

Taking an example of a family of two adults and 3 children crossing over to Ireland on the HSS Stena Explorer on Thursday 27th May and returning on Monday 31st May travelling economy class it would cost £342 + credit card charge. This is the same price as the conventional ferry that is meant to be cheaper.

To make a return trip on the same days from Dover to Calais by Sea France would cost £107.00. This of course is a shoter crossing, however there is a lot of competion for the Dover/Calais/Boulogne route including the Channel Tunnel so prices are very competitive.

Ireland and France are both in the Eurozone and a lot of commodities are much cheaper in France like accommodation and drink than they are in Ireland. Straight away the family going to France will be some £235 better off. Car ferry costs are low.

Ireland needs the tourists, ok you can fly there and possibly get a good car hire deal. You still have to get to your local airport and pay transport or parking. You can of course take the family dog to Ireland by car and you don't need a passport for him/her either.

However that Irish Sea is costly and whatsmore the ferries are not often full (except when flights are disrupted because of volcanic ash problems or at peak times in the summer or Christmas) so why don't Stena Line and Irish Ferries do an all in price for a car and passengers and cut the prices so there are more people on board, buying food in the restaurants, drinks in the bars and goods in the shops. Passengers would benefit and tourism increase in Ireland and Britain from the two way traffic.

Let us know what you think by replying to this blog.

Holiday rental at Fethiye Turkey

2010-05-19T06:36:00.000-07:00

Whether you are thinking of going to the Turkish Grand Prix on the 30th May bank holiday weekend or later on in the summer, it is now time to find a self catering holiday rental in Turkey.

jmlvillas.com have a great selection to choose from in Turkey and this stunning 2 bedroom apartment has just been added earlier today.

•Sleeps up to 4
•2 bedrooms
•3 bathrooms
•Dishwasher
•Washing machine
•Satellite TV
•Air conditioning
•Shared pool
•Beach nearby
•Shops nearby
•Bars nearby
•Restaurants nearby
•Microwave

This Villa apartment with mountain views and shared pool is set back just off the main Olu Deniz beach road, enjoying a panoramic view of the Taurus mountain range, and with a pine fragrant back-drop, this small private complex also enjoys a traditional Turkish farm just in front of the terrace on the lower road level.

The local dolmus bus stops just outside the main gates to take you to the main beach or blue lagoon, both are just minutes away. the historical market town of Fethiye lies in the opposite direction, easily reached by dolmus. on the laid back beach front you will find plenty of trendy restaurants and selective bars, shops galore on the main street and paragliders coming in every direction to land on the beach front. In the village of Hisaronu, just walking distance from the property, yet far enough away from any noise, bars, restarants, shops and night life line the main street, giving you lots of variety to idle the evenings away.

The property enjoys a superb communal swimming pool, with easy access steps, and small infants pool.

The area is full of natural historic interest. Fethiye dates back to the 6th century BC, rock tombs in the east of the town are lit up by night. Dalyan is famous for the mud baths, and Turtle beach, Lycian tombs are etched into the rock face.Tlos is dominated by its acroplis, complete with a Roman ampitheatre.

Para Glidding, water sports and boat trips all take place on the beach front of Olu Deniz, paddle boats are popular on the Lagoon area. Mountain biking, horse riding and walking on the Lycian way to view many of the Lycian ancient settlements.

For more information visit this page http://www.jmlvillas.com/villa/784

Rental appartment for Cannes Film Festival

2010-05-17T07:44:00.000-07:00

A One bedroomed apartment in private domain - Eva at Cannes la bocca has just been added to the jmlvillas.com site.

It offers:

•1 bedroom
•1 bathroom
•Dishwasher
•Washing machine
•Air conditioning
•Shared pool
•Beach nearby
•Bars nearby
•TV
•Restaurants nearby
•Internet access
•Close to airport

One bedroomed bottom floor apartment for a couple in a private guarded domain with swimming pools and opposite the Cannes Mandelieu beach. The apartment is tastefully furnished and comprises a double bedroom, shower room with washbasin, separate wc, kitchen and living room which overlook the furnished terrace and two minute walk from the shared swimming pools and the public beach just outside the domain.

The apartment is in an excellent position away from teh husle and bustle of the large towns but within in easy distance of Italy, Monaco, Nice airport, Cannes, Mandlieu and St Tropez which can be reached by road or by boat (from Cannes).

In the privately gated domain there are three pools of various sizes for all ages surrounded with chaises longues and literraly opposite the domain there is the mediterannean sea with sandy beach which runs the length from Cannes to Mandelieu. Parascending,water skiing, scuba diving and boat hire facilities are available along the coastline.

More information at: http://www.jmlvillas.com/villa/783

New holiday rentals scam

2010-05-16T22:37:00.001-07:00

17th May 2010. jmlvillas.com that long established self catering holiday rentals advertising site received the following email from a client this morning:

"Warning new scam email"

Hi please could you warn your property owners of a new scam... an email is received asking to hire property for a number of newly ordained Greek priests. Somebody named Andy Halford says he will give his credit card details to pay the deposit, but also wants you to pay a large sum for translator fees.

Please be warned this is a scam. Once the transfer is done, before the credit card company can check his card is default, communication is lost and you are left with the liability.

This is a problem that of course has been going on for years. We have created a few pages on the subject at http://www.euro-rentavilla.com/rental_scams_in_holiday_home_lettings.htm

Never accept payment from someone who wants you to arrange additional services like translators fees, purchase a bike, or pay for their air travel.
Never accept a payment in excess of the cost of the stay, if you, don't return any balance till the original credit has finally cleared as otherwise you will find you have fallen for the scam and will be out of pocket.

For more information visit: http://www.euro-rentavilla.com/rental_scams_in_holiday_home_lettings.htm

68th Monaco Grand Prix 2010

2010-05-14T08:10:00.000-07:00

According to a report in yesterday's edition of The Monaco Times ......

The Grand Prix circus rolled into town on Monday, straight from the Spanish event which was won in fine style by the Aussie Mark Webber for Red Bull Racing. Petrol heads have four days of (almost) non-stop action ahead of them starting today in the streets of Monaco, culminating with the Formula One race on Sunday.

This is the one they all want to win. Physically and mentally demanding, the tortuous city circuit with its famous Spéluges hairpin bend is deemed the most challenging of them all. Drivers have to stay focused for 78 laps (circuit length: 3.340 km) over a total distance of 260.520 km. Yes, it is shorter than all the others whose circuits are over 300 km (50 to 60 laps) but the narrowness of the streets, the tightness of the turns and the proximity of the colourful crowds combine to create an extraordinary tension.

Adding spice to the season is the decision to ban refuelling during the race, which has shifted the focus onto tyre strategy leading to some thrilling climaxes in rain-affected races (notably Australia and Shanghai) with drivers on older tyres holding off faster cars on newer ones. British driver Jenson Button, driving for McLaren, has done best in the rain so far this season, when it comes to what tyres to use, which has given him the edge. He currently leads the championship.

The Milton Keynes-based Red Bull Racing team of Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber have raced superbly on dry tracks but their cars struggle to perform so well in the rain. With showery cloudy weather forecast for today and Friday, brightening up for the all important grid qualification sessions on the Saturday and the F1 race on the Sunday, anything could happen.

Traffic chaos: inevitably there is bound to be disruption on the roads over the four days as the circuit is closed all day Thursday, half day Friday, and all day Saturday and Sunday. Local buses, the Nice Airport-Monaco-Menton bus and the Nice bus station-Menton bus station via the Basse Corniche 100 are all forced to take slightly different routes, so be prepared. The best bet is to take the train as extra services are added to the schedule, especially on the Sunday to ease road congestion.

There are still tickets available from the Automobile Club stands (Place d’Armes and bottom of rue Grimaldi). Prices have changed little in the last four years for the 20,000+ seats which range from about 250 up to 450 euros (85 euros to go up on the Rock overlooking the port). According to the Automobile Club sales this year have remained stable, although they were down 20 per cent in 2009 compared to 2008. (Source Monaco Times)

What a difference in the ticket price from The Historic Monaco Grand Prix on the 1st and 2nd of May. Here you paid €35 euros on the Sunday and €25 on the Saturday with youngsters under 15 going free if accompanied by an adult.

The programme for the four days of the 2010 Monaco Grand Prix looks like this:

BBC Television covers the Formula 1 practise sessions, qualifying and the race and the Thursday sessions below were shown on the "Red button" intercative service. The weather yesterday was dry and sunny. The forecast for Saturday and Sunday is partly cloudy on Saturday around 18 degrees ans sunny on Sunday around 19 degrees. Not excactly a heatwave, but at least dry as the region has had a lot of rain this year.

Thursday 13 May Circuit closed from 7am to 6.30pm

8.30am to 9.15am –practice session Renault 3.5

10am to 11.30am – 1st practice session F1

12 noon to 12.30pm – practice sessions GP2

2pm to 3.30pm – 2nd practice session F1

4.15pm to 4.45pm – qualifying sessions GP2

5.20pm to 6.05pm - practice sessions Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup

Friday 14th May Circuit closed 7am to 1.30pm

9.30am to 10.15am – Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup (qualification sessions)

11.15am to 12.30pm – GP2 1st race (45 laps or 75 minutes)

Saturday 15th May Circuit closed 6am to 7pm

7.45am to 8.45am – Pit stop sessions F1

9am to 9.25am – Renault 3.5 qualifying session Series A

9.30am to 9.55am – Renault 3.5 qualifying session Series B

11am to 12 noon – 3rd practice session F1

2pm to 3pm – qualifying sessions F1

4pm to 4.50pm – GP2 second race (25 laps or 45 minutes)

Sunday 16th May Circuit closed 7am to 7pm

9.45am to 10.20am – Porsche Mobil SuperCup (6 laps or 30 minutes)

11.10am to 12 noon – Renault 3.5 (25 laps or 45 minutes)

12.30pm – driver parade F1

2pm – 68th Grand Prix de Monaco (78 laps or 2 hours)

Should be great to watch either live at Monaco or via your TV with broadcasters like BBC (No ads! brilliant) TF1, Setanta Ireland, RTL and loads more

Results:
1. Mark Webber
2. Sebastian Vettel
3. Robert Kubica
4. Felipe Massa
5. Lewis Hamilton
6. Fernando Alonso
7. Nico Rosberg
8. Adrian Sutil

The first Grand Prix was raced in 1929 at a time when the world championship did not exist. The race was held for the next eight years before the Second World War broke out and interrupted the racing calendar. Three more races took place between 1948 and 1952 before Monaco became a permanent fixture in the racing calendar and one of the most spectacular.

Staysure Holiday Money Delivers On Price Direct To Your Door

2010-05-12T09:08:00.000-07:00

In times of financial hardship even those with a healthy bank balance whether through prudence or good fortune not only want value for money but insist upon it. With this in mind Staysure has stepped up to the plate again teaming up with HiFX the foreign currency experts to provide Staysure Holiday Money.

Although things could be better the recent interest rate cut by the Bank of England has thrown a lifeline to many borrowers, however there appears to be no respite for savers who have seen interest from investments / savings dwindle only to be compounded by the poor performance of sterling against the euro. Therefore the last thing travellers want to do is to unnecessarily line the pockets of the banks already awash with tax payer's pounds, by paying unfavourable currency exchange rates and commissions.

Over the last five years Staysure has built a reputation for providing low cost, high quality insurance products specifically designed for over 50's, yet available to all ages from 0-85 and is one of the few to cover 99% of pre-existing medical conditions including several serious illnesses with the introduction of medical screening. Therefore it comes as no surprise that they have now added foreign currency to their repertoire, saving customers up to 4% on bank exchange rates and charging no commission. What's more when ordering over £500 they provide next day delivery direct to your door for free.

All Staysure products are available online at www.staysure.co.uk and to accommodate their less computer savvy clients a team of advisors on-hand 7 days a week for those who prefer to purchase their products by telephone.

Olivia Skeen Marketing Manager of Staysure.co.uk stated "Our customers don't just look for the lowest prices they expect value for money, which is why we are always striving to provide the best products, service and savings. With the introduction of Holiday Money we can offer currency at the best rates, without commission and save clients the inconvenience of collecting cash from the airport or bank. Why pay more, when you don't need to?"

If you are looking for Staysure Travel Insurance visit: http://www.jml-insurance.co.uk/displayproduct.php?id=322&sec=8

If you are looking for Staysure Holiday Home insurance visit: http://www.jml-property-insurance.co.uk/Staysure_holiday_home_property_insurance.htm

Having difficulty letting your holiday rental in 2010?

2010-05-11T04:09:00.001-07:00

Has the downturn of the world economy finally caught up with the self catering holiday rentals business?

2010 could prove to be a difficult year. At jmlvillas.com we are still seeing a lot of copy email enquiries going to property owners, however some of the feedback from owners is that it is quieter than usual.

We received an email a couple of days ago from an advertiser in Portugal who looks after several properties saying that there was not so much interest in larger properties and that the enquires for apartments were increasing.

Another owner who has holiday rents in England has reported that 2010 is certainly much quieter than last year.

People have concerns about jobs and flight disruption. British Airways cabin crew are planning more strikes later in May and the Volcanic ash problem from Iceland is not blowing away.

Many holiday makers maybe looking at last minute bookings this year and if you have a self catering holiday rental do consider the rental price you are marketing it at. If the prices are too high, you won't get the visitors. Be competitive.

Look out for cheaper alternatives to advertise your holiday rental with. Newspapers and magazines have a very short lifespan - perhaps a few days or even a month and can be very expensive as well.

Consider the Internet. That too can be expensive with some companies charging over £100 for an annual advertisement plus lots of add on fees for web links etc. At jmlvillas.com we have been around since 2001. We have a well established web site and supplementary web sites and we only charge £11.75 per year including VAT.

There are no booking fees or additional charges for photos, links or live telephone numbers.

For further information follow this link http://www.jmlvillas.com/page/advertise

Holiday Rentals in Corsica Wanted

2010-05-11T03:51:00.001-07:00

jmlvillas.com the holiday homes advertising website that has been in operation since 2001 is urgently looking for advertisers of self catering rentals in Corsica.

Corsica is a very popular destination with holiday makers and jmlvillas.com were emailed yesterday by one of the owners of an advertised property to say "I have an advert for a villa in Corsica - which has been successfully
advertised on your web site for a number of years. I have now sold the villa
and wish to remove the advert as I am getting several enquiries
many thanks"

Advertising on jmlvillas.com is not expensive...far from it is exceptionally good value at £11.75 [including VAT](around €13.65) per year or at under 23p per WEEK (approx 20 cents).

What else could you spend that amount on? A paperback book, possibly 3 bottles of wine, but certainly not more than one week's advertising in a national UK Sunday paper.

The advertisement is there all year 24/7 365 with as much description as the advertiser can put in, siz colour photos and a link to the advertiser's web site.

There are no booking or finders fees so all the rental income goes to the property owner.

For more information take a look at the jmlvillas.com advertising information page at
http://www.jmlvillas.com/page/advertise

We look forward to hearing from you and other owners of self catering holiday rentals.

French Internet Connections

2010-05-10T08:23:00.000-07:00

If you own a holiday home in France and need Internet and email access, you can take regular trips to the local internet cafe or look for other alternatives.

For many years I used a free dial up service. It was of course a lot slower than broadband and blocked the telephone line, but the service was good. I used Tiscali and then Tiscali in France was taken over by Alice. All went well for a couple of years till I tried to log on at the end of 2009. No service.

I did a Google search for people's experiences using dial up in France and found out that as Alice had been taken over by Free, the "free dial up service" had ended one day in November. No longer Free and I was stuck in Internet wonderland that was not so great.

I had to use a dial up service in the UK which was very expensive and decided to get the French equivalent of broadband.

As the telephone line was with France Telecom, I was advised to get an Orange Internet system. I was able to apply on line back in England and fell down at the mobile phone contact. I had p[reviously let my French "nomad" / pay as you go sim card expire and the online application will not work with an UK mobile number.

A family friend in France offered his one and knew about the situation.

The "Livebox" (pictured above) was meant to have been posted out and that is difficult when you are not always in residence, so in March went into the local Orange shop. I was told the box would be in the post and explainmed that we were only staying a few days. They had also told us codes would be posted out and as the phone bills came to England, I said would the Livebox come there as well? At that point the representative feared that could actually happen so went to the back of the shop and got a brand new Livebox out.

After a brief discussion as to what might happen if the original Livebox that should have been posted out actually arrives was told don't worry, even if it arrives next year, just return it to them!

The installation should have been straightforward had the letter arrived with passwords and codes, however after and hour on the helpline a member of the family was able to obtain sufficient information to get the system working.

Sometime after returning to England, I received a phone bill for the new system. Unfortunately this could not be paid via direct debit as they could not transfer the old details from FT to Orange. If you did not pay within so many days you could be penalised. I could not pay on line as I needed the "missing" password.

As I was off to France in late April I decided to sort it all out at the local Orange shop. I turned on the computer and immediately had access to the Internet and emails. Excellent. What was not so good was we could no longer make or recive telephone calls as the phone no longer had a dialling tone but an engaged tone.

The people at the Orange shop were very helpful. No they could not take a payment for the phone bill, but gave out a small leaflet that had the phone number of English speaking assistance.

They are very helpful, I was able to pay the phone bill over the phone by credit card and ask why the answer phone no longer works.

I was told I must plug any phones into the bag of the Livebox to make them work. If I wanted to use the old phone sockets this would cost around €15 a month extra.

Basically it means if you have phone wires around the house they are useless as you have to arrange for hidden wires to be installed from the location of the Livebox. This is somewhat crazy, but you can live with thin in a holiday home, but it is a shame we had new tiles put down on the floor a short while back as otherwise we could have had more wires hidden.

To sum up we have Internet now, the telephone line is not so clear and you have strange noises at the same time as the dialling tone. The green lights on the Livebox tend to go out from time to time ( I don't think they are very good router units) and the Internet fails and of course the phone. If there is a power cut, forget the phone as it will now only work when the Livebox is switched on.

If I was living in France permantly I think I would rather have a more reliable system.

If you have any experiences, let us know via this blog

Newsletter from The Algarve Portugal May 10

2010-05-10T02:02:00.000-07:00

Just had this newsletter in from The Algarve in sunny Portugal. According to the 10 day weather forecast for Faro, next weekend (21st May onwards) will be sunny with temperatures reaching some 24 degrees. Sounds Tempting doesn't it?

Are you a party of two or a party of twenty-two? The local agents jmlvillas.com has been working with for many years has something for everyone, from luxury apartments to spacious townhouses and of course hundreds of different sized fabulous villas to choose from. Allow them to offer you a selection of ideas for this year’s well earned holidays.

A careful selection of luxury apartments and townhouses centrally located and suiting those who do not wish a car hire. Vilamoura and Albufeira Marinas are very popular but you may wish to consider Vale do Lobo, Carvoeiro or Lagos. All offer a large shared pool and extensive gardens.
The villas range from 2 bedrooms up to 11 bedrooms. Larger villas are normally booked up in advance for the peak season. They can offer two villas next door to each other in this case.

There is an excellent selection of properties to choose from some 145 or more and all you have to do is to go to http://www.jmlvillas.com/country/Portugal You then select an area or use the http://www.jmlvillas.com/advsearch.php Advanced Search facilty.

Once you have made your selection don't forget your car hire. holiday autos have some great deals, but you need to book early by following this link. http://www.holidayautos.co.uk/cgi-bin/liveweb.sh/QSearch.w?ctryref=GBR&lang=EN&aff=xjeffreymilnerltd

You can arrange car hire excess insurance at http://www.insurance4carrental.com/ and your travel insurance at http://www.jml-insurance.co.uk/products.php?id=8

Travel insurance is most important with all the Volcanic ash problem this year. This last weekend there have been delays and cancellations to and from Portugal.

Enjoy a late spring or summer holiday in the Algarve.

Freak waves cause havoc in the Nice area

2010-05-05T23:37:00.000-07:00

Massive waves have hit the French Riviera between Nice and Cannes causing major material damage to the densely-populated coast on Tuesday afternoon 4th May. The freak weather struck as the region is preparing to host the 63rd Cannes Film Festival.

Freak waves battered the southern French coast between Menton to La Ciotat on Tuesday afternoon, causing major damage to beach constructions only a few days before the Cannes film festival is set to begin.

There were ten metre-high waves battering the coastline, leaving one woman with a fractured leg and causing major material damage. The unusual weather cost the life of a 20-year-old woman who was swept away near the lighthouse on Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat.

In Cannes, some 20 restaurants were damaged and several cars overturned. The picture above is of a restaurant - la Gougouline at Cagnes sur Mer. The restaurant was severly damaged in the bad weather on the 1st January this year.

In Nice, not only the beaches were closed but also part of its famous Promenade des Anglais.
The timing of the natural disaster – days before the opening of the tourist season – could spell economic disaster for the French Riviera. In Nice and Cannes, a state of natural catastrophe has been declared to speed up compensation claims for beach front restaurants, some of whom were forced to watch as 6-metre waves carried their sun loungers and other equipment out to sea, just days before the Film Festival and Grand Prix season.

In Cannes, an 11-year-old Australian girl was rescued from a catamaran which broke free from its mooring. Over 1,000 cruise liner passengers had to be driven by coach from Villefranche-sur-Mer to Toulon as the sea was too rough for them to return to the ship by tender.

It took over 2 hours to travel by road from Nice to the outskirts of Cagnes sur Mer on Tuesday evening. At least the road was open whereas the carriageway nearer the sea was closed. This was for traffic heading towards Nice. Fortunately it was closed as in January this year heavy debris from the sea was being thrown onto the road.

According to a report on the Riviera Radio website on the 6th May "Beach clean-up operation - Across the Riviera, a massive clean-up operation is underway following Tuesday’s 6-metre waves which wrecked beaches and seafront restaurants from Menton to La Ciotat.

The mayor of Nice is meeting with beach bar bosses today and has promised to speed up the process of compensation. A state of natural catastrophe has been declared in Nice and Cannes and restaurant owners away from the coast are showing solidarity by lending equipment to their devastated colleagues, such as cutlery, furniture and washing machines.

The president of the PACA region has promised a million euros in aid for affected establishments, many of whom had recently invested thousands in new materials for the start of the season. With the Cannes Film Festival and the Monaco Grand Prix both attracting hundreds of thousands of people to the Riviera next week, the disastrous phenomenon could not have come at a worse time for the local tourism industry."

If you own a property in the south of France do make sure you have adequate property insurance. Find out more at: http://www.jml-insurance.co.uk/types.php?id=11&sec=1

Spring has arrived in the south of France

2010-04-17T00:05:00.000-07:00

The Riviera Times sent out an email yesterday saying that

"Dear readers

With the feeling of spring now definitely in the air it's not only the first of the sun-seeking tourists that are arriving on the French Riviera and in Monaco. A number of world class events are also attracting a whole host of international stars to our shores this month, with Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray here for the Monte Carlo Rolex Masters Tennis for example. And this is only the start, with the famous Monaco Grand Prix and Cannes Film Festival next month the celebrities will be descending en masse and eyes across the globe will turn their attention to this small corner of the Mediterranean. So, before the museums, beaches and restaurants start to swell with a throng of visitors, make the most of the relative quiet and say hello, once again, to the sun. "

Apart from these events there is also the Historic Monaco Grand Prix on the weekend of the 1st and 2nd May. More information at: http://www.cotedazurrental.com/historic_monaco_grand_prix.htm

It has been announced that The actress Kristin Scott Thomas will open the 63rd edition of the Cannes Film Festival - Festival de Cannes on May 12th. The film Robin Hood, the epic blockbuster by British director Ridley Scott, starring Russell Crowe and Cate Blanchett is to be screened at the Opening of the 63rd Festival de Cannes on Wednesday May 12th 2010. Find out more about The Cannes Film Festival at http://www.cotedazurrental.com/Cannes_film_festival.htm

Hope the volcanic dust clouds are not about in May as there are a lot of people who want to get to the French Riviera for all these events.

Swansea to Cork car ferry sailing again

2010-04-16T05:47:00.000-07:00

Just came across this interesting story on the Essential Travel blog.

Swansea to Cork
April 13th, 2010

As you might know, we’re no fans of sneaky low budget airlines here at Essential Travel. Not that we have anything against cheap flights, we’re just anti the cheeky charges no-frills that airlines slap onto the cost of a flight. So when we heard the Swansea to Cork ferry had made a comeback (essentially doing away with the need to fly with Ryanair) we were thrilled.

Swansea Cork Ferries Ltd did away with the ferry that previously sailed the route in 2006, leaving travellers bereft while businesses and tourism in both Wales and West Ireland took a hit. Local campaigners on both sides have been battling for a new service for the last two years and finally (with the help of local investors and government backing) have managed to secure a new ship (a 1982 Finnish car called MV Julia) and new service, Fastnet Line.

Fastnet Line may be small by ferry standards, but it still holds 1,860 passengers and 440 cars. There’s also a cinema, bar, cafe, shops and even pet kennels. Best of all, you get to stay in your very own cabin, heading to bed as you depart Swansea and waking up to a cooked Irish breakfast as you sail into Cork. Now that surely beats Ryanair?

Essential Travel have a great selection of Travel Insurance products at: http://www.jml-insurance.co.uk/displayproduct.php?id=29&sec=8 including a product designed for the Irish market at: http://insurance.essentialtravel.ie/?aC=200036

They also have car hire excess insurance and according to the ad on the insurance4carrental.com site it costs £1.94 a day. More information at http://www.insurance4carrental.com/Essential_Travel_car_Hire_excess_insurance.htm

Limerick pubs opened on Good Friday

2010-04-07T00:00:00.000-07:00

Friday 2nd April 2010 was Good Friday and the pubs opened in Limerick to serve alcholol.

The rugby match between between Munster and Leinster which was expected to provide a boost to the local economy was reason for the historic decision.

Pubs in Ireland do not open on the two most holy days in the year. Christmas Day and Good Friday which is a total surprise to many toursists. (See http://www.euro-rentavilla.com/country/dublin_at_Christmas.asp ) Shops can open as normal however. The city's 110 pubs were allowed to be open.

According to The Seattle Times " Such a judgment would have been unthinkable in the Ireland of old, where the Catholic Church enjoyed unquestioned authority from the public and deference from the government. Commentators were quick to suggest that Thursday's judgment represented a watershed in the shifting relations between church and state in this rapidly secularizing land.

"This could be the beginning of the end of Good Friday, because now legislation will have to be changed," said a jubilant David Hickey, one of the Limerick pub owners who successfully sued the state for the right to do business like any other Friday. "The option should be given to let publicans open if they want to and close if they want to. Today was a huge decision in that direction."

His side argued that keeping pubs shut for the match between hometown favorites Munster versus Dublin-based rivals Leinster would represent an economic sin in Limerick, a city suffering from exceptionally high unemployment following the shock closure of its major employer, a Dell Computers plant. Accountants testified that keeping the bars closed could cost the city an estimated euro7.3 million ($10 million) in lost income."

It will be interesting to see if there is now further pressure for all pubs in the Republic of Ireland to be open on Good Friday and even on Christmas Day!

What is the current situation regarding opening on Christmas Day and Good Friday in Northern Ireland. Please reply to this blog.

The pregnant response from a Mairie in France

2010-04-05T23:49:00.000-07:00

I wrote to a local council in France concerning a dangerous road that could benefit from speed humps to slow taffic down. There had been more development of housing further up the hill and naturally more traffic that made the job of getting out of the development near the bottom much harder.

The letter I sent was dated the 2nd June 2009. The response was sround nine months later in their letter dated 8th March 2010. Not bad for a "pregnant letter response"!

In fact my original letter was dated the May 2005 (which was hand delivered) and although other local residents contacted the Mairie on the same subject they never bothered replying. They did however put some "slow down" markings in the road, but these have been well worn away now and need to be done again.

The Mairie replied in their two paragraph letter of the 8th March saying it is dangerous to put speed humps on a bend. If they had put at least two of these in place on the section of road in question they would not actually be on the bend. I might consider replyling, knowing perfectly well that the response could take a long time.

I did in fact email the Mairie last September about the issue of these speed bumps (not knowing their response to my 2nd June letter was in fact being dealt with in a very slow process) however the emails were never replied to.

Do you have any similar experiences? (If so please reply on this blog)

This not quite like the help I received from a local Councilor in Dublin, Ireland a while back. I contacted this person about a road issue and whether it was because there were elections due a while later or the fact that the councilor was very professional, a report on the road was actually sent by Dublin City Council. Altogether very good customer services.

In England when I recently had to contact the local Council on an issue, replies were very quick in coming back.

So what is the problem in France. Is it like with retailers if you want to return a product. They can't handle customer service. I am certainly very cautious when I go shopping in France to make sure I don't buy the wrong product or one I don't want. Ireland certainly does customer service a lot better.

At a glance Guide to Nice France

2010-04-02T07:49:00.000-07:00

We received the Spring 2010 edition of "Destination France" magazine a couple of weeks ago and found a very interesting article entitled "At a glance guide to Nice" .

It is a most imforative guide by Gillian Thornton. Destination France has given us permission to re-produce the article in full at cotedazurrental.com including a great selection of photographs like the one on the left by Frank Follet.

They offer a guide to various hotels and restaurants as well.

As Gillian says in the article "Mention the name Nice and even people who've never been there have a mental picture of this iconic Riviera resort with its shining super yachts, smart hotels, historic buildings and fashionable boutiques.

Nice epitomises the elegance and affluence of the south of France and yet the city has only been French for 150 years. In June 1860, it was handed over to Emperor Napoleon III by Victor Emmanuel, leader of the state of Savoie, in return for military support. This year, the anniversary is being marked with 150 individual community projects, all aimed at making this delightful city even more attractive. Facades will be renovated, gardens landscaped and buildings restored, so if you've never enjoyed the unique atmosphere of France's fifth largest city, there couldn't be a better time to visit. The city is easily accessible from the UK by low cost flight or by train via Paris."

To read the article in full visit http://www.cotedazurrental.com/Nice_at_a_glance_guide_DF.htm

Wanted self catering holiday rentals in Northern Ireland

2010-04-02T03:15:00.001-07:00

2nd April 2010 - We received the following email enquiry at jmlvillas.com this morning.

Sent: Friday, April 02, 2010 9:44 AM
Subject: Northern Ireland

I notice, that although part of the UK you do not have a section for Northern Ireland

We replied: Thanks for the enquiry.

Very difficult to categorise countries on a holiday homes website.

So we have no UK classification no Britain classification, but England Wales, Scotland plus Ireland taking in the whole of the country. Again Cyprus is divided, but again categorised as one country.

The other area that can give comments is with Ibiza, Mallorca (Balearics) some people think they should be (like the Canaries) incorporated in Spain and of course Corsica is not on the France page but as an individual destination as it appears to make more sense to show places as destinations rather than part of to whom they might be associated to politically.

Hope that answers the enquiry and thanks for visiting www.jmlvillas.com

The person enquiring responded a couple of minutes later Hi Thanks for your promptreply- I looked at Ireland - but the counties were all Southern Ireland rgds S

We replied Hi Unfortunately no one to my knowledge has ever advertised one from that area. Seems a shame as there is fabulous scenery about particularly on the Antrim coast.Hope you find something, regards Philip Suter

If you have a self catering holiday rental in Northern Ireland we would love to hear from you. It only costs £11.75 per year to advertise at www.jmlvillas.com and many holiday makers will be considering the "sterling area" this year as the £ pound is not going as far as it used against the € euro.

We hope to hear from you soon.

Vacation house in Baden-Baden Germany

2010-03-27T12:46:00.001-07:00

This stylish self catering holiday rental has just been put onto the jmlvillas.com website earlier today. It is a house divided into two holidat rental apartments.

It features: 2 bedrooms, 1 full bathroom, sleeps up to 5 persons, 1292 sqft (121 sq. meters), large backyard, high speed Internet access, has WIFI, please ask for pets. This detached cottage is situated on the outskirts of the historic cultural village of Baden-Baden. It lies at the end of a quiet side valley on a large estate, directly overlooking the mountains of the Black Forest. The house consists of two separate apartments. Both apartments have a spacious living area of about 35 square meters and three bedrooms with a total of five beds. The apartments are officially rated with 5 stars (maximum) by the German Tourism Aggency.

Each apartment has three bedrooms with 2 double beds and one single bed

Each apartment has a large living room, with a beautifull view on the mountains of the Black Forest, only a few hundred meters away.

Baden Baden (meaning Bathing Bathing) is a spa town built on thermal springs at the edge of the Black Forest in Baden Württemberg, south west Germany. Don't be put off by its reputation as a hang-out for the rich. This picturesque town is beautifully situated in a wooded valley, and you can enjoy yourself here without spending or gambling a fortune.

The Black Forest is only a few hundred meters away from the house. The center of Baden-Baden is also close, about 3km. Baden-Baden is famous since the Roman Empire for it's spa's. Nowadays also for various other wellness facilities, casino, culture, nature,...
The owner has a great website accessed via http://www.jmlvillas.com/villa/782 .There are several internal photos on the jmlvillas.com page and many more on the owner's site.

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Dieses freistehende Ferienhaus liegt am Rande der historischen Kur- und Kulturstadt Baden-Baden. Es liegt am Ende eines ruhigen Seitentales auf einem großen freien Anwesen. Man blickt dort direkt auf die Berge des Schwarzwaldes. Es sind nur wenige Minuten bis zum Wald, von wo man auf viele ausgeschilderte Wanderwege gelangt.
Das Ferienhaus besteht aus zwei separaten ca. je 120qm großen Ferienwohnungen mit jeweils fünf Betten. Die Ferienwohnung in der oberen Etage wurde im Sommer 2007 komplett neu erstellt.

Die Ferienwohnung im ebenerdigen Bereich hat einen großen Eingangsraum (Garderobe), zwei ineinander übergehende Wohnzimmer, drei Schlafzimmer, eine Essecke sowie Küche, Bad und separate Toilette. Der Wohnbereich besteht aus einem 26 m² großen Wohnzimmer und einem 14 m² großen Lese- bzw. Bibliothekszimmer. Es gibt zwei Doppelbett-Zimmer und ein Einzelbett-Zimmer. Die Küche ist komplett ausgestattet und verfügt u.a. über eine Geschirrspülmaschine, Grillofen und Mikrowelle. Das Ferienhaus verfügt weiter über:
Stereoanlage, CD/DVD-Spieler, Fernsehen über Satelittenanlage und Internetverbindung (WLAN)

Die Wohnung ist von einer von einer Terrasse in Sonnenlage umgeben, die von Südosten bis Südwesten liegt. Siehe Foto

Die Ferienwohnung in der ersten Etage hat einen ca. 35 qm großen Wohnbereich und drei Schlafzimmern mit gesamt fünf Betten. Im Wohnbereich gibt es eine große Sitzecke, die auch als Schlafcouch hergerichtet werden kann. Die Schlafzimmer teilen sich in zwei Doppelbett-Zimmer und ein Einzelbett-Zimmer auf. Die Ferienwohnung hat eine große offene, moderne Küche, die im Zentrum der Wohnung liegt. Es gibt ein modernes Bad mit Badewanne, WC und separater Duschecke. Im Garderobenbereich befindet sich eine zusätzliche Gästetoilette.
Die Küche ist komplett ausgestattet und verfügt u.a. über eine Geschirrspülmaschine, Grillofen und Mikrowelle. Die Ferienwohnung verfügt ebenfalls über:
Stereoanlage, CD/DVD-Spieler, Fernsehen über Satellitenanlage und Internetverbindung (WLAN)

Für beide Wohneinheiten existieren PKW-Parkplätze direkt am Haus.
Im Keller gibt es einen Waschraum mit Waschmaschine und Wäschetrockner.

Vermietungskonditionen:
Das Ferienhaus kann ab einer Mietdauer von 7 Tagen gemietet werden. Der Mietpreis regelt sich nach der Anzahl der Personen. Z.B. beträgt die Miete für zwei Personen bei einer 120 qm große Ferienwohnung Euro 658,-- pro Appartement und Woche. Den genau infrage kommenden Mietpreis erhält man auf Nachfrage beim Vermieter. Im Mietpreis enthalten sind Wasser, Strom, Heizung, Bettwäsche und Handtücher sowie die Endreinigung. Nicht enthalten sind die Kurtaxe der Stadt Baden-Baden. Die Kurtaxe beträgt € 2,80 pro Erwachsener und Tag. Kinder, Kongress- und Tagungsteilnehmer sind von der Kurtaxe befreit.
Haustiere (Hund, Katze) sind nach Absprache ggf. willkommen. Der Zuschlag beträgt € 6,-- pro Tag und Tier.

Beschreibung der Umgebung:
Das Haus liegt auf einem großen Anwesen, welches von Wiesen begrenzt wird. Es ist von einer 20m x 3m großen Terrasse umgeben, von wo man einen freien Blick auf den nahen Waldrand und die Berge des Schwarzwaldes hat. Das Ferienhaus verfügt u.a. über eine eigene Autoauffahrt bis vor die Terrasse. Über die Terrasse gelangt man ohne hindernde Absätze ins Haus und es ist somit auch für Menschen geeignet, die in ihrer Motorik behindert sind.

Im Gunzenbachtal befinden sich zwei Reitställe und einige Weiden (Koppeln). Man trifft folglich dort regelmäßig auf Reiter und Pferde.
Der kurze Weg bis in den Wald führt auf viele Wanderwege durch die Berge und auf Wege bis ins Rebland mit seinen malerischen Dörfern. Auch für Jogger und Mountainbiker sind diese Wege ideal geeignet.
Das Stadtzentrum von Baden-Baden ist mit dem Auto in weniger als 10 Minuten zu erreichen. Zu Fuß durch die bekannte Lichtentalerallee (Park ohne Autoverkehr) erreicht man das Zentrum und das Kurviertel ca. in einer ½ Stunde.
5 Minuten Fußweg vom Haus gibt es in der Gunzenbachstraße eine Bushaltestelle (Kleinbus) mit Verbindung in die Innenstadt. Weitere Informationen findet man unter dem Internetauftritt der Stadt Baden-Baden.
www.baden-baden.de (Tourismus).

Skye Crofters Cottage on Isle of Sky for holidays

2010-03-24T09:09:00.000-07:00

This fabulous cottage was listed ten minutes ago on the jmlvillas.com website.

CEUD MILE FAILTE - Welcome to Skye Crofters Cottage, Balmeanach, Struan, Isle of Skye.Scotland

The cottage is built on my croft of 34 acres and belongs to the owner, his wife and daughter.

THE COTTAGE
Skye Crofters Cottage is an exceptionally luxurious property, built and furnished to a high specification. Graded 5 stars by Visit Scotland, the Scottish Tourist Board. Ideal as a romantic hideaway, it sits on a secluded spot at the top of a hill, with spectacular views of Loch Caroy and the hills. All this can be seen from every window of the cottage. It provides a perfect opportunity for a quiet break with excellent accessibility for exploring Skye and its wildlife. Our aim has been to combine the luxury of a 5 star hotel with the comforts of home.

COTTAGE ACCOMMODATION

The Cottage has under floor heating throughout – superb on bare feet!
The cottage is powered by ground source heat taken from water deep within the ground. This is thermostatically controlled to provide warmth but also to cool the cottage down on warm sunny days, of which we hope you have many! A welcome pack is provided, which includes miniatures of Talisker and Baileys, locally made chocolates, shortbread, whisky marmalades, yoghurts, eggs, milk, orange juice, butter and bread fresh from the Dunvegan bakers. In the shed at the rear of the property, you’ll find bikes, fishing rods and a barbecue. The shed is also an ideal place to store luggage after you unpack or to store your walking or climbing equipment. There are seats outside to enjoy the spectacular views, and should you decide to picnic, there are a range of picnic essentials inside the cottage, even a flask if needed.

THE LIVING ROOM
The comfortable Italian leather sofa, quality soft furnishings and fuel burning stove will ensure a cosy night relaxing after a day’s activities. Kindling and peat are provided. Sky television is connected and we have a selection of DVD’s for you to enjoy. There is also our very own webcam which is linked to the bird table on the hill, so you can view close-up the many species of birds which visit. Binoculars are provided to view the spectacular scenery from the cottage and should you require a telescope, we would be happy to supply one for your holiday duration. There are also a selection of books, games, maps and CD’s, plus an IPOD docking station which is part of the CD/Radio player, should you wish to listen to your own choice of music.

KITCHEN
The kitchen is professionally equipped with washing machine, dishwasher, tumble dryer, built in cooker and microwave. In the cupboards, you will find everything you need if you would prefer to cook for yourselves. Even down to a fish kettle, should you be fortunate enough to catch your own supper! A selection of crockery is available for every day dining, however, if you would prefer to create a more fine dining experience, china, crystal, tablecloths, etc, are all provided.

All we ask is that you do the cooking! If cooking’s not your thing, the world renowned restaurant, the ‘Three Chimneys’ and the Michelin star ‘Uillinish Lodge’ are all within easy reach of the cottage. The water is from an underground well and will be the finest water you can drink. Free of chemicals and taken straight from source, it is the ideal accompaniment to a wee dram.

BEDROOM
The sumptuous King Size bed has been dressed with the finest linen and the quilts and pillows are hypo-allergenic and of the highest quality. The perfect place to relax or read after a day’s walking. There is a flat screen television with satellite and a reading area for you to choose from. There is ample storage with ‘his and her’ chest of drawers, hairdryer, safe, dressing table and writing desk. WI-Fi is provided for those who would like to keep in touch with the big, wide world.

BATHROOM
The bathroom of the cottage is spacious and luxurious in design. Every detail has been thought of and it boasts a large free standing bath and sit down steam shower. You’ll find the Steam/Shower cubicle an extra luxury during your stay. Either for a refreshing shower, or unwind your muscles using the steam function. At the same time, you can tune in to Radio Highland (or Radio 1), put your feet up and have your feet massaged using the foot massager. What better way to end the day after a hard days walking. Or if you would prefer, luxuriate in the bath big enough for 2, surrounded by candles, with a chilled glass of wine. Highland Aromatic essentials are provided as well as luxury towels and dressing gowns.

Everything in Skye Crofters Cottage has been carefully thought about with the guest in mind. See the testimonials on their website.

Find out more at http://www.jmlvillas.com/villa/781

Elections in France March 10

2010-03-24T08:32:00.001-07:00

France has held regional election on two consecutive weekend in March.

It is very interesting to see how the poster campaigns are carried out in different countries.

The photo on the left shows a contrast bewteen Ireland and France.

The top photo is in Ireland. Whenever there is an election the correx boards go up. They appear to go any public vertical posts -lamposts, street signs, electric cable support, telephone poles, traffic signs and you will often find several on one post. The roads will be full of them.

You will not often see them displayed outside someone's home (like in the UK).

In France neat boards are errected for the posters when the campaign starts. These are not correx boards, but posters stuck to the metal municipal allocated zone.

It must be a good business to be in, in Ireland manufacturing all these high quality boards. With the housing market still slow there, it must be another use for those manufacturing. There is no election on the horizon in Ireland for a while apart from Northern Ireland and together with the rest of the UK will probably be full of election signs outside individual's houses in the very near future.

If anyone can contribute to this blog on how political party signs are displayed in other countries, please do so.

Juan Les Pins Jazz festival is 50

2010-03-23T03:09:00.001-07:00

Juan-les-Pins Jazz Festival - Jazz à Juan

July 2010 sees the 50th International Jazz Festival Antibes Juan-les-Pins JAZZ à JUAN July 14 - 25, 2010

I went there a couple of years ago on a hot July evening and was entertained by Keith Jarrett, Gary Peacock & Jack Dejohnette who are again playing this year. The festival is held in the Pinede (pine grove) opposite to where former Hotel Le Provençal at Juan Les Pins is being converted into luxury apartments. Well it was up to some time in 2009, but it looks like work has well and truly stopped now, unless anyone has more information.

The 2010 Juan Jazz Festival Programme includes:

Wednesday 14 July - Jim’s Band - Jazz à Juan sextet - NJO Nice Jazz Orchestra
Thursday 15 July - David Sanborn - George Benson
Friday 16 July - Spokfrevo Orquestra - Carlinhos Brown
Saturday 17 July - Melody Gardot
Sunday 18 July - Hommage à Django Reinhardt Le Manoir de mes rêves
Monday 19 July - AvishaÏ Cohen - Paco de Lucia
Tuesday 20 July - Joshua Redman Double Trio
Wednesday 21 July - Keith Jarrett, Gary Peacock & Jack Dejohnette
Thursday 22 July - Kyle Eastwood - Diana Krall
Friday 23 July - Black Dub - Brooklyn Funk Essentials - Maceo Parker
Saturday 24 July - Manu Katché - Marcus Miller & Orchestre Philharmonique de Monte-Carlo & guests Raul Midon & Lalah Hattaway
Sunday 25 July- Gospel Evening / Soirée Gospel - Liz McComb

For more information visit the Juan-les-Pins Jazz Festival - Jazz à Juan page at cotedazurrental.com http://www.cotedazurrental.com/Juan_les_pins_Jazz_festival.htm

If you are looking for self catering accommodation rentals during the festival or just for a holiday in the south of France, take a look at jmlvillas.com http://www.jmlvillas.com/search.php?country=France®ion=Cote+d%27Azur+%28S%29

The Cannes Film Festival

2010-03-23T02:57:00.001-07:00

The 63rd Cannes Film Festival - le Festival international du film de Cannes takes place between May 12th to 23rd 2010

If you are in the area it can be a great occasion seeing the film stars leaving the various hotels and arriving at the Palais des Festivals.This rather ugly building is having a lot of work carried on at it to improve it's appearance. Large sections of sloping glass are being errected and hopefully it will improve.

Unfortunately it was built in an era when arcitecure could have been better - 1979. Although modern for the time, it does stick out rather like a sore thumb in my opinion.

More information about The Cannes Film Festival can be found at the cotedazurrental.com site at http://www.cotedazurrental.com/Cannes_film_festival.htm

If you are looking for self catering accommodation during the festival visit jmlvillas.com at http://www.jmlvillas.com/search.php?country=France®ion=Cote+d%27Azur+%28S%29

2010 Historic Monaco Grand Prix

2010-03-23T02:45:00.001-07:00

The 2010 - 7th Historic Monaco Grand Prix - is on Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd May 2010 (7eme Grand-Prix de Monaco Historique - Samedi 1 et Dimanche 2 Mai) that is two weeks before the Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix 13th to 16th May 2010.

After visting the event at least three times now, this year should be a great occasion. It is only held every other year and the first Historic Grand Prix took place in 1997.

The tickets are very reasonably priced (unlike the modern FI Grand Prix a couple of weeks later).

Historic Grand Prix of Monaco 2010 Programme

Serie / Race A Voitures de Grand Prix et Voiturettes ayant couru avant 1947 Pre 1947 Voiturettes and Grand Prix cars

Serie / Race B Voitures de Grand Prix à moteur avant, construites avant 1961 Pre 1961 front engined Grand Prix cars

Serie / Race C Voitures de Sport et Sport Prototypes d'avant 1953 Pre 1953 sports and sports prototypes cars.

Serie / Race D Formule 3. 1000cm3 (1964-1970) Formula 3. 1000cc (1964-1970)

Serie / Race E Voitures de Grand Prix à moteur arrière, construites avant 1966 Pre 1966, rear engined Grand Prix cars

Serie / Race F Voitures de Grand Prix de Formule 1,3 litres, ayant participé à un Grand Prix F1 avant 1975 Formula 1,3 liter, who have taken part in a Formula 1 Grand Prix no later than december 31st 1974

Serie / Race G Voitures de Grand Prix de Formule 1,3 litres ayant participé à un Grand Prix F1 entre 1975 et 1978 Formula 1,3 liter, who have taken part in a Formula 1 Grand Prix from 1975 to the end of 1978

Serie / Race H Formule 3, 1600 et 2000 cm3 (1971-1984) Formula 3, 1600 and 2000 cc (1971-1984)

Further information can be found at the cotedazurrental.com site http://www.cotedazurrental.com/historic_monaco_grand_prix.htm

You can also arrange self catering holiday accommodation via http://www.jmlvillas.com/search.php?country=France®ion=Cote+d%27Azur+%28S%29

Quinta do Santo, Lagos, Portugal - Holiday rental

2010-03-22T07:45:00.000-07:00

This fabulous Countryside Estate in the Western Algarve, Portugal has just been added to the jmlvillas.com self catering holidays web site.

It is very big as:
•Sleeps up to 24
•12 bedrooms
•10 bathrooms
•Dishwasher
•Washing machine
•Satellite TV
•Room fans
•Private pool
•Pets welcome
•Beach nearby
•Shops nearby
•Bars nearby
•TV
•Close to River
•Restaurants nearby
•Microwave
•Lake nearby
•Golf

Set in five acres of stunning gardens and farmland in Portugal's unspoilt Western Algarve, Quinta do Santo is a spectacular country retreat consisting of an elegant colonial-style villa with separate studio apartment and three rural cottages. Very close walking distance to bars, restaurants and a choice of beaches.

More Information: The gardens and pool are shared with the other 4, smaller properties (Three rustic cottages with 3, 2 and 1 bedroom and a spacious Studio). The surrounding area is rich in natural beauty with rolling hills and hedgerows full of wild flowers in spring. There are several sleepy hamlets to the west and the wilder and the dramatic West Coast (ideal for surfers) is only 30 minutes away.

For the sporting-minded, the vicinity boasts excellent sporting facilities from windsurfing, sailing, deep-sea fishing, golf, tennis, walking and horse riding. From the marina in Lagos it is possible to charter yachts or join one of the frequent boating trips around the spectacular coast. Some trips include lunch, such as locally caught barbecued sardines. Further inland you can find typical villages displaying the influence of the Moors in their architecture and Monchique, the wooded mountain area with stunning views and historic spa village, with allegedly 'healing' waters.

Cape St. Vicent was known to early sailors as 'the end of the world' — when watching the sun set into the vast Atlantic Ocean (you can almost hear it hissing) you can understand why. Beach The nearest beach is within 15 minutes walk or 5 minutes by car. It is large and sandy with 2 restaurants. There is a vast choice of coves and other beaches within short drive available. Golf Boavista golf course is situated just within 5 minutes drive. Palmares golf course 10 minutes drive, and other golf courses 15-20 minutes drive from us.

To find out even more and to make a booking click on this link: http://www.jmlvillas.com/villa/780

Pentland Cottage Kingston on Spey on the Moray Firth Coast

2010-03-19T00:17:00.000-07:00

Pentland Cottage is situated in the village of Kingston on Spey on the Moray Firth Coast near the mouth of the River Spey in Scotland. It has just been added to the jmlvillas.com web site and www.scottishcottagerentals.com website

The cottage is over 150 years old and has been recently refurbished to a very high standard, providing excellent, modern, comfortable accommodation that sleeps up to 4 people - pets are also welcome by arrangement.

Accommodation Details:

The Cottage has:

Multifuel stove in lounge with electric panel heaters in all rooms.
Modern open plan kitchen with washing machine, dishwasher, fridge, freezer, microwave etc.
Two bedrooms - one double, one twin both with ample wardrobe and drawer space; an electronic safe is available in the double room.
Bathroom with bath and seperate shower enclosure.
All linen, bedding & towels provided.
26" LCD HD ready TV & DVD/Video player in lounge, also TV's in all rooms, all with Freeview.
Radio/CD, board games, cards, DVD's & videos provided.
3 piece leather suite in lounge.
Sun lounge with cane suite.
Comprehensive " Welcome Pack " supplied i.e. tea, coffee, bread, milk, washing powder, local Free Range Organic eggs, firewood, and much more as well as a complimentary bottle of wine.
Strictly no smoking.

The Garden has:

A typical enclosed cottage garden.
Childrens play area with slide and swing.
Patio area with table & chairs and BBQ.
Rotary clothes airer.
Garage for storing bicycles, golf clubs.

Local Information and what to do:

Where to start, there are so many things to do and see, here are just a few:

The village beach - Dolphin Watching- Kingston Wildbird Reserve - see Ospreys fishing at the mouth of the River Spey.

Garmouth & Kingston Golf Club where guests can enjoy a 50% saving on green fees.

Salmon & Trout fishing on the Spey.

The Whisky Trail

Baxter's of Fochabers Visitors Centre.

The East Coast Walking Trail and the Speyside Way Long Distance Footpath finally reaches the sea at Spey Bay.

The Whale & Dolphin Centre & the Ice House also at Spey Bay.

The historic ruin of Elgin Cathedral.

Spynie Castle

Walkers Sortbread Factory

The delightful Cooper Park with its many features including a boating pond and Biblical Garden
and much more makes Kingston an ideal base for the host of attractions and activities to be found in this tranquil and beautiful part of Scotland'

Where can I find out more information? Visit http://www.jmlvillas.com/villa/779

Carlton Hotel Cannes for sale?

2010-03-18T01:37:00.000-07:00

Is the Carlton in Cannes up for sale? Passing it earlier this week it had a large BNP Paribas Real Estate sign hanging from the front.

It does not appear the hotel is being advertised for sale, but Cannes is hosting the 2010 MIPIM conference between the March 16 to 19th March 2010.

This is the large gathering of international property professionals. According to a report in "The Daily Telegraph" earlier this week,

"Around 38pc fewer delegates will attend the annual Mipim property conference in Cannes this year than in 2008. The number of attendees will be in the range of 17,000 to 18,000, according to registration figures, in line with last year but far fewer than the 29,000 of 2008, reflecting how much the commercial property industry has changed during that period."

On Monday this week in mid afternoon the majority of delegates must have been hard at work as there were only a few ( wearing suits) walking around eating ice creams or sitting in bars opposite the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès de Cannes and from the number of vans dropping off equipment along The Croisette looked like they were still finishing off the preparations for this conference or starting on the next one.

"The Irish Times" Thursday 18th March Property section had a heading "No Cannes do for Irish" saying that " Only a handful of Irish are in attendance.

Not surprising given that tickets for the event cost the guts of €1,000 and hotels triple their rates for the week.The few estate agents who are in attendance are busy, we hear, fielding questions about Nama and the state of banking in Ireland.

Caroline McCarthy of CBRE said it was a shame that more Irish were not there to fly the flag at this time.She was also disappointed that Dublin wasn’t able to rise to its own stand, whereas Belfast is getting a lot of attention at the show which ends today."

The Cannes Film Festival (Festival de Cannes) is now not too long away, this year being held between the 12th to the 23rd May. There is always plenty to see and do along the French Riviera and at http://www.cotedazurrental.com/ there are features on the Cannes Film Festival, Historic Monaco Grand Prix and Juan Les Pins Jazz Festival. You can also arrange self catering accommodation in the area from links on the cote dazur rental.com site to the jmlvillas.com site pages at http://www.jmlvillas.com/search.php?country=France®ion=Cote+d%27Azur+%28S%29

Spring had finally come to the south of France this week after the long hard winter so it is worth taking a look at.

Le Canet 2 Bed Apartment, France

2010-03-08T08:11:00.000-08:00

If you are looking for a great self catering holiday rental at Le Canet on the Cote d'Azur in the south of France this could be for you.

It was listed on the jmlvillas.com site twenty minutes ago.

A two bedroomed first floor apartment with comfortable furnishings, with a terrace overlooking private swimming pools and the public beach of le Cannet. Situated in a private domain known as Royal Palm, this two bedroomed apartment is perfect for a family of four ideally two adults and two children.

It comprises one double bedroom with ensuite bathroom, twin bedded bedroom with ensuite shower room, separate wc,equipped kitchen, living room and terrace. The apartment is air conditioned and has a private parking space and a concierge to maintain security and high standards of the gardens, pools and domain.

It is approximately fifteen minutes by car to the centre of Cannes, ten minutes to the motorway allowing you easy access to all of the beautiful towns along the coast and forty minutes from Nice airport. For further information please contact : Mairéad Tel : 0033686507525 or email : maireadinfo via the contact details on the property page at: http://www.jmlvillas.com/villa/773

Tamarisk Cottage, Dampierre sur Boutonne, France advertised for another year at jmlvillas.com

2010-02-26T08:10:00.000-08:00

The owner of Tamarisk Cottage, Dampierre sur Boutonne,Charente Maritime France has re-advertised theis self catering holiding rental at jmlvillas.com - the low cost villa advertising service.

The holiday cottage is a converted village bakehouse set in quiet hamlet.
•Sleeps up to 2
•1 bedrooms
•1 bathrooms
•Washing machine
•Pets welcome
•Close to River
•Golf

Set in the valley of the Boutonne They are situated in the small hamlet of La Touche 3ks from Dampierre sur Boutonne where there is a bar/restaurant and a renaissance chateau.There are opportunities for fishing and we can arrange fishing licences. The cottage sleeps 2.The upper floor has 2 single beds and a shower/toilet room.Downstairs there is a sitting area and kitchen area with a gas cooker,fridge and dining facilities.It is well equipped for 4 people. We can supply an extra bed for a child and also a cot and high chair. A washing machine is available for use.

More information at http://www.jmlvillas.com/villa/544

Ancien fournil village situé dans le hameau calme. Sleeps up to 2 dans 1 chambre - 1 salle de bains - lave linge - Animaux acceptés - Près de River.We sont situés dans le hameau de La Touche Mall 3KS de Dampierre sur Boutonne où il ya un bar / restaurant et un chateau.

Renaissance sont possibilités de pêche et nous pouvons organiser des licences de pêche. Le chalet peut accueillir 2/4.The étage supérieur a 2 lits simples et douche / WC room.Downstairs il ya un lit double coin cuisine settee.The a une cuisinière à gaz, réfrigérateur et facilities.It à manger est bien équipé pour 4 personnes.

Nous pouvons fournir un lit d'appoint pour un enfant et également un lit et chaise bébé. Une machine à laver est disponible pour utilisation.

Dehors jardin avec barbecue et mobilier de jardin.

L'Information Locale Futuoscope, le parc de l'image mobile à Poitiers est la commande approximativement 1hrs et fait un jour splendide dehors pour toute la famille. Équipements De Loisirs La côte à La Rochelle est de 45 minutes où drive. River pour la pêche est

Villa Sizarin Les Cammazes France

2010-02-26T05:22:00.000-08:00

Villa Sizarin has just been added to the jmlvillas.com holiday homes website. It has also been added to villa-rental-france.com and euro-villalocation.com.

This superb villa is situated in the Languedoc region of France just outside the village of Les Cammazes about 25km from the medieval city of Carcassonne. Les Cammazes is within a National Park area with lots to see and do

Villa Sizarin is a new modern holiday home in the south of France and is available for private rentals. It has three bedrooms, lazy day outdoor covered terraces and a pool with a peaceful rural outlook. Great for sharing a chill-out early family breakfast, an afternoon by the pool, or a peaceful evening with family and friends sharing a glass of wine and dinner. Fully furnished with a lounge/dining area with a fully fitted kitchen.

• It Sleeps up to 6
• 3 bedrooms
• 1 bathroom
• Dishwasher
• Washing machine
• Satellite TV
• Air conditioning
• Private pool
• Shops nearby
• Bars nearby
• TV
• Close to River
• Restaurants nearby
• Internet access
• Microwave
• Lake nearby
• Park nearby
• Close to airport
• Golf

Carcassonne Walled Town is a MUST. Look out for the large FIREWORKS DISPLAY at Le Citi (old city) You are advised to be there early, but leave the car well away from the city limits as the traffic after the display gets grid locked. This spectacular sight on Bastile day - must be seen to be believed. Thousands of people will be there. BEST VIEW is from the old arched bridge looking towards the main street and Old City. Sit on the bridge wall. It starts about 2030 hrs on or around the 14th of July. FANTASTIC but be warned about the traffic.

GOUFFRE GEANT de CABRESPINE

This cave is a huge single cavern, 80 Mtrs long and 220 Mtrs high, which is as high as the Eiffel Tower. Apart from guided tours an extended tour off the normal tourist section is also available. It lasts for five hours and takes place throughout the year. Must be booked in advance with a minimum party of six. Some of this tour is along the route of an underground river.

More information at http://www.jmlvillas.com/villa/777

Villa Sizarin est situé dans la région du Languedoc de la France juste à l'extérieur du village de Les Cammazes environ 25 km de la cité médiévale de Carcassonne. Les Cammazes se situe dans un parc national qui a beaucoup à voir et à faire.

Villa Sizarin est une nouvelle maison de vacances moderne, dans le sud de la France et est disponible pour des locations privées. Il dispose de trois chambres à coucher, journée de farniente en plein air terrasses couvertes et une piscine avec une perspective rurale paisible. Idéal pour partager un chill-out petit-déjeuner familial précoce, un après-midi à la piscine, ou une soirée tranquille avec la famille et des amis partageant un verre de vin et dîner. Entièrement meublé avec un salon / salle à manger avec une cuisine entièrement équipée

Il peut accueillir jusqu'à 6
• 3 chambres
• 1 salle de bains
• Lave-vaisselle
• Machine à laver
• TV par satellite
• Climatisation
• Piscine privée
• Commerces à proximité
• Bars à proximité
• TV
• Près de la rivière
• Restaurants à proximité
• Accès à Internet
• Micro-ondes
• Lac à proximité
• Parc à proximité
• Près de l'aéroport
• Golf

Ville fortifiée de Carcassonne est un must. Attention à l'affichage grand feu d'artifice à Le Citi (vieille ville) Il vous est conseillé d'être là au début, mais laisser la voiture loin des limites de la ville tandis que le trafic après l'affichage devient grille verrouillée. Cette vue spectaculaire le jour de Bastille - doit être vu pour être cru. Des milliers de personnes seront là. Vue spectaculaire depuis le pont aux arches séculaires en regardant vers la rue principale et vieille ville. Asseyez-vous sur le mur du pont. Elle commence autour de 2030 heures sur ou autour du 14 Juillet. Fantastique, mais être averti de la circulation.

GOUFFRE GEANT de CABRESPINE

Cette grotte est une caverne immense unique, 80 Mtrs de long et 220 Mtrs élevé, ce qui est aussi haut que la Tour Eiffel. Outre les visites guidées une longue tournée hors de la section touristique normale est aussi disponible. Il dure cinq heures et a lieu tout au long de l'année. Il faut réserver à l'avance avec une partie minimale de six ans. Une partie de cette tournée est le long de la voie d'une rivière souterraine

Plus d'informations à http://www.euro-villalocation.com/Locations_saisonieres_en_france_12.htm