Travelling allsorts

We've done both. Christmas is great with all the snow for the kids to play in but it's best if you can arrange for family or friends to stay in the same resort - the same villa, if possible, otherwise another apartment in the same block. The first time we stayed in La Plagne  (French Alps) many years ago with a bunch of friends, all on a tight budget, and we shared a two-room apartment which slept six when using a sofa-bed.  The last time, we were in a large apartment with three bedrooms; ourselves and our friends, each family having one child at primary school. We spent Christmas there, plenty of snow! After dark, there were candlelight events which looked spectacular.  In February, there is more likelihood of snow and, being higher up than the clouds (sometimes) means that there is plenty of sunshine so don't forget the factor 50 - especially for the children's fair skin. It is still quite expensive, too, as school holidays always are. La Plagne is a great choice. Upd...

The London Eye was a spectacular Catherine Wheel and the Thames reflected colours majestically. What else can London offer visitors in the winter months? London is one of the best cities to be in if you are planning a break and can't predict the weather. There is always warmth and entertainment within metres of wherever you find yourself - whether it's Covent Garden , Borough Market , Harrods, a river cruise or other tourist attraction. Here are a couple of favourites: London Transport Museum , Covent Garden (don't let the dull website put you off) London Film Museum . Covent Garden / South Bank If you can't get to London for the Fireworks and you are hosting your own event for family and friends, stay safe! Fireworks: The Law Fire & Rescue Service advice At the time of writing (2012), fireworks are available to buy from 15th October until 10th November and from 26th December until 31st December. Additionally, for Chinese New Year and Diwali, on the ...

With Halloween creeping up on us you might like to have a peep through your fingers at my favourite British chocolatier, Hotel Chocolat’s ghoulishly gorgeous Halloween goodies. Whether you’re planning a party, having a quiet night in behind the sofa, or bracing yourself for an army of trick or treaters – you’ll find the very best selection of mouth watering scary treats! Hotel Chocolat have a true passion for chocolate, they even own their own cocoa plantation, Rabot Estate in St.Lucia . If you haven’t tasted their delights Halloween is the perfect excuse as they have a fun range of spooky chocolate boxes that will be sure to keep your little monsters quiet! Camilla, 2012

discount tickets available Just got back from the slopes in time to tell you about this years UK Aware event being held at Olympia this weekend. UK AWARE is now firmly established as the UK's 'must attend' green event. With sexy green supercars, beauty makeovers, fashion shows, a kids area, business advice and thousands of green products and services on show, it can offer you a complete solution for contemporary sustainable living....something we feel passionate about. Last year our team had an amazing time meeting lots of like-minded people & businesses so if you're around London this weekend make it a date for your diary and come and join in the fun! Camilla, 2010