The kids are back to school, full season is nearly over, now is the time to get some of the best possible deals for cheap September holidays. Enjoy our Purple Travel guide to cheap September holidays and save money on your next break.
1. Paphos, Cyprus: Average temperature in September 31 0C. Cyprus in September is still hot enough to enjoy dreamy days on the beach or swim a lap around the infamous Aphrodite’s Rock.
2. Antalya, Turkey Average temperature in September 32 0C. The ‘gateway to the Turkish Riviera’ offers a wonderful clutch of beaches along the coast and loads of bars, clubs and restaurants as well as the famous Efes beer. Image via @ Burntime
3. Tunis, Tunisia Average temperature in September 32 0C. Enjoy a taste of North Africa, with the souks, medinas, salt lakes and beaches that make Tunis holidays in September unforgettable. Image via @ WomEOS
4. Valletta, Malta Average temperature in September 28 0C. The island’s capital is tiny – only 1km – but there’s plenty to see and do. Stroll down baroque-influenced streets, and wander narrow cobble-lined lanes or hop on the Sliema Ferry and work on your tan on the rocks. Remember, Valletta itself isn’t filled with sandy beaches, but makes a good base for discovering more. Image via @ Britrob
If you fancy yourself a little bit of an amateur astronomer, then we’ve got just the bit of news for you. A new craze is sweeping the tourism industry, for dark sky getaways. We’re not talking about space travel, (although that is a growing industry!) we mean places with reduced light pollution, away from the glare of street lamps and cars where you can really see the skies at night. Here are a couple of top tips for your star gazing holiday.
La Palma, Canary Islands La Palma has a local law called Sky Law, a money saving initiative that stalls pollution, radiation and outdoor lighting and therefore encourages dark sky holidays. The island is also home to the Roque de los Muchachose Observatory. It’s renowned in the Northern Hemisphere for some of the best views of the night sky with consistently cloudless skies making for almost guaranteed sights.
Provence, France You’ll find an astronomy farmhouse where the owner Olly will take you through the nebulae and galaxies far, far away. The owners even offer you the chance for sophisticated space photography with no experience necessary.
Wadi Rum, Jordan the ancient historical Bedouin Camp, offers Arabic banquets and al fresco beds, as you gaze skywards. A perfect opportunity to take in the vast twinkling lights, away from any light or air pollution. You’ll also be surrounded by the stunning ancient sites of Jordan to fill your days as well as your nights with wonder.
Spain El Milano Real Hotel near Madrid offers guided sessions in Spanish and English of the skies above. With little air or light pollution and an observatory with a 250mm telescope mirror. For anyone serious about dark sky holidays, this is certainly one to consider.
Here at Purple Travel we’re nothing if not helpful. Whether it’s finding you the best possible price for your holiday, tips on how to pack your bag, or what to wear on the beach this summer, we’re here to help.
Ladies – are you sick of that unsightly bikini tan? Have you got more lines on your body than Mother Teresa? Guys – does it look like you’ve still got your shorts on even when you’ve already taken them off? Is your behind akin to an Alaskan landscape?
Fret not. We’ve got you covered, or uncovered as the case may be.
Whether you just want to avoid unsightly marks, feel like getting down with your primal self or are a fully-fledged naturalist, the best nudist beaches can be a sandy haven for both your inner and outer self. With this list of our top naturalist beaches, you’ll be in the know as well as in the buff. And if you’re a little shyer, or perhaps travelling with your children – consider this a list of places to stay well away from…
Let’s begin our best nudist beaches with an old favourite:
Since the 1990s Spain’s Vera Playa has developed into an important naturism centre. It’s in the lovely region of Andalusia which mixes ancient cities with amazing beaches and deserts with ski resorts! So you should certainly be able to find a spot, to bare all. The infamous dunes of Maspalomas Beach in Gran Canaria provide plenty of coverage for stripping off and designated sections to get used to the new found freedom.
Next up is the Czech Republic; we hear there are over 50 recognized nudist beaches in the country, so you’ll have plenty of chances to get your kit off.
Leucate Plage in France, situated on the Mediterranean coast, just north of Perpignan is a superb bare beach of fine golden sand and warm waters. Three naturist resorts share the coastline, but the beach is open to all so there’s plenty of space for both first-time skinny-dippers and veteran nudists alike.
Greece: there are plenty of options in Greece, if you fancy whipping off your gear. Super Paradise Beach on the frankly, glorious island of Mykonos has nude friendly policy and in some parts “nudism is actually obligatory.” Another good one is on Skiathos, near Koukounaries on the south-west coast, where you’ll find Banana Beach – the collective name for three sandy coves, worshipped by naturalist bathers. And before you get any ideas, the name refers to the fact the beaches are yellow and curved…
Croatia’s Vrsar is home to Koversada, which is one of the largest nudist resorts in Europe! According to Wikipedia it can take up to 18,500 guests per day. Better bare (!) that in mind when booking…
Looking towards more tropical climates, daring to bare in the Caribbean has never been more inviting. Seven Mile Beach in Negril Jamaica, is a very nude friendly resort, although the beach itself is public property, so topless is ok, but if you’re losing your bottoms you’ll have to pay extra. The Hedonism resort, also in Negril is as the name suggest open to not only nudist sunbathers, but plenty more besides.
Heading down Mexico Way, you’ll find the Hidden Beach Resort, an ‘au naturel club’ which claims to be the only All Inclusive Nudist Resort in the Mexico Caribbean. A top choice for the best nudist beaches in the world… at least we think so.
The Sunshine State of Florida, welcomes nudity with open arms…well almost. Haulover Beach is an official tax supported public nude beach, with excellent facilities and you don’t need to worry about getting hassled in a state of undress.
Good luck!
One word of caution: While it’s true ‘topfree’ is popular in most resorts, it’s not for everyone. Be sure to check with the local authority to be sure!
It doesn’t really matter what time of year you go, the eternal springtime weather that characterises all the Canary Islands makes it a hot choice for family friendly fun. Choose Gran Canaria for great value family friendly hotels, brilliant sunshine and relaxed beaches and tonnes of activities for you and your tots.
The long beach of Playa de Las Canteras is really well organised, with changing rooms, loungers and lots of space. It’s a top choice for families thanks to its calm waters, ideal for children thanks to the shelter provided by a natural reef.
Playa de Puerto Rico is a big favourite too. There are lots of water sports available so it might suit older children who want to have a go at banana boating. There are lots of facilities and the golden sand and clear sea will impress mum and dad too.
Water Babies
Take advantage of the numerous water activities on offer in Gran Canariafor a memorable and fun-filled break with your children. Just try some underwater diving, snorkeling or kayaking.
Natural Swimming pools
A peaceful alternative to the beach, the famous natural swimming pools of the Canaries are a choice day out offering relaxation or diving, sunbathing and splashing. We like Las Salinas Charco de San Lorenzo and Los Charcones, Arucas.
A taste of the wild west in the Canaries
Fancy a wild west experience in the sunshine of Gran Canaria. It might be the other side of the world but Sioux City captures the feeling of being a cowboy with lively shows, zoos featuring snakes, bison, raccoon, meercats and an alligator swamp as well as plenty of BBQ’d treats.
Palmitos Park in Maspalomas allows kids and grownups to get up close and personal with dolphins, birds of prey, flamingos and all sorts of exotic reptiles. A combined ticket to Palmitos and Aqualand gives a 15% discount too.
A ride on the back of one of a camel is one of the most fun, exotic experiences you can have while you’re on a family holiday in the Gran Canaria. Head for the Camello Safari Dunas route to admire the stunning landscape formed by the Maspalomas Dunes, a Protected Nature Reserve. Or, why not hop on to a glass bottomed boat, and soak up the undersea view of whalers or dolphins in the waters around the island.
Along with superb beaches, the Canary Islands offer a number of natural swimming pools, with diving, sunbathing and discovering the native flora and fauna of the islands. Here are a couple of our picks for the best natural swimming pools in the Canary Islands.
El Hierro, Pozo de las Calcosas: It’s a bit of a hike to get to these natural pools, but once you arrive the gorgeous scenery more than makes up for the trek to get there.
Tenerife,Bajamar: two natural pools absolutely perfect for swimming, one is completely dedicated to children too, so there’s lots of space for fun and games for all ages.
Gran Canaria, Las Salinas: This is made up of three naturally occurring pools, connected by channels so you can swim right through from one to the other. Las Salinas is also where to go for quality diving to discover the colourful natural habitat.
Find out more about amazing places around the world, in our Off The Beaten Track series.
El Bollullo is considered one of the most beautiful beaches on the island by locals and visitors alike, however it’s a little tricky to get there. It’s a short walk, but down a couple of steps so you need take a little extra care en route. And, while it’s not as organised as some of the others on the island, what it lacks in facilities it makes up for in beauty. There are 400m of gorgeous volcanic sand, the water is crystal clear and there’s a distinct air of quiet all around. Get there on the 376 bus from Puerto de la Cruz.
Playa de las Vistas in Los Cristianos might be one of the busiest on the island, but it is certainly one of the best kept. Sandwiched between Los Cristianos and Playa de las Americas its huge sweep of sand has room for families, mates and couples and although it’s often busy, it never feels too crowded. The sheltered waters, excellent facilities and natural beauty make this a top choice for great beaches in Tenerife.
Playa Jardin in Puerto de la Cruz You couldn’t holiday in the Canaries without visiting one of its famous black sandy beaches. Head straight for Playa Jardin, one of the best beaches in Tenerife with its dramatic dark sands. A favourite with locals and visitors alike, this isn’t just for beach lovers; exotic gardens filled with plants and a playgrounds back onto the beach, while there are plenty of facilities like restaurants and bars and even a nearby family theme park.
Playa del Duque in Costa Adeje was once a black sandy beach, but it was transformed in the 90s when a truckload (or two) of white sand was taken from the sea bed and put on top. Today, it’s aged very well and is a really pretty and relaxed family friendly choice. The area nearby has a couple of 5* hotels, so you’ll find a more upmarket vibe here, reflected in the shops and restaurants too.
La Caleta close to Playa de las Americas is a good choice if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the main resort. Turn off the coast road and you’ll find a track, at the end of it, there’s a little paradise of soft golden sand, a handful of restaurants and perfectly crystal clear water. This one is definitely a winner.
La Arena Beach in the small resort of Puerto Santiago stands out for all the right reasons. This Blue Flag beach, bathed in sunshine, is a little on the quiet side, so you’ll find lots of space to retreat by the water’s edge. There are a handful of friendly local restaurants and shops and it is close to lots of hotels, so it makes a great family friendly choice and one of the best beaches in Tenerife.
Maspalomas Possibly the most famous and one of the best beaches in Gran Canaria, the rippling dunes of Maspalomas are an absolute must-see. This area is well kept and has something for everyone. If you’re into surfing, fishing or sailing you can do it from here, there are walking and hiking routes across the dunes and lots of bird watching available. For the beach part it’s well divided to suit all tastes… including nudists! It’s very popular thanks to its extensive facilities and location. Stay at the 4* Tabaiba Princes Hotel right amongst the dunes. It has excellent facilities and offers a great holiday experience.
Taurito A smallish beach, Taurito has great snorkelling right passed the cliffs on either side of the beach and is know as one of the best beaches in Gran Canaria. Days on the sand here offer the best of both worlds; have a go at some water sports, dive into the sea or sunbathe on the sand-free lido. The sheltered resort offers safe waters for children and any less confident swimmers as well as a large swimming pool nearby which looks more like a lake and should definitely be discovered! Stay at the 4* Hotel Taurito Princess in the heart of Valle del Taurito, there are fantastic views, great entertainment and it’s right on the beach. Hard to ask for anything more than that.
Mogan After a few years as a rocky outcrop, Mogan has become one of the most popular beaches on the island thanks to a huge delivery of sand from the Sahara. Now the relaxed, sheltered beach, is edged by tasty fish restaurants, its warm waters are great for children, and it’s known as having more hours of sunshine than any other part of the island. Stay at the Cordial Mogan Playa. This 4* has a wonderful Spanish feel, built in a traditional architectural style, the rooms are comfortable, the grounds are filled with lush greenery and you can’t beat its location, a stone’s throw from the beach.
Puerto Rico could be called the ‘people’s favourite’ such is the popularity of the area. A specially built resort, you’ll find Puerto Rico slap, bang in the middle of two beaches with lots of nearby shops, bars and restaurants. The beach itself is made of soft, golden sand and the waters are ideal for paddling in; there aren’t many waves and the water is quite calm so it’s a nice choice for families. Yachting is probably the most popular water sport choice here but there are also surfing or banana boating options. Stay at the 3* Altamar Aparthotel which offers delightful sea views and pretty garden surroundings. It’s just 400 metres from the beach and has a golf course a stone’s throw away.
Meloneras Right in front of a couple of the big Maspalomas hotels, Meloneras is in a great location, meaning you can get from bed to beach in no time. And of course in a place like that you’ll find top notch facilities. The beach is well organised with lots of loungers and the best bit? It’s usually not too busy! Stay at the H10 Playa Meloneras Palace. A top choice for families, (it’s also right next to an exclusive golf course) and has been recently revamped so you can be sure of an enjoyable holiday.
Arguineguin From the ancient Guanche word for ‘quiet water’ Arguineguin is a slightly quieter alternative to the big resorts like Playa del Ingles. A good choice for couples, it’s small and almost private. The sand was replaced in recent years and there are plenty of delicious restaurants serving daily fresh fish so you can enjoy a romantic meal. Check the weather forecast for the waves as surfers usually descend in good conditions. Stay at the 3* Dorada Beach apartments, with gorgeous views, an outdoor pool, and direct access to the beach. There you’ll find great value for a great holiday!
Find out more about the great hotels on the best beaches in Gran Canaria from the expert team at Purple Travel, click for our site or call us directly on 0207 993 9228.
Lanzarote beaches are the top choice for families who want to enjoy year round sunshine, exotic volcanic scenery and some of the best beaches in the Canaries. With average water temperatures of 19.5°C, you’d be crazy to miss out on the wonderful beaches of Lanzarote. Here are some of our choices for best beaches in Lanzarote… don’t forget to share yours!
Papagayo Actually more like a group of beaches clubbed together, Papagayo is a local favourite as well as being one of the best beaches in Lanzarote. It’s sheltered from the wind so you can sunbathe; build a couple of sandcastles, laze around, and maybe even hop on a banana boat for the afternoon. Just remember, a couple of beaches in this area have a clothes optional approach. Stay at the 4* Iberostar Papygayo right on the Playa de las Coloradas Beach, a top choice for families who want to spend days on the beach with great facilities nearby.
Caleta de Famara You won’t have to fight too much for space on this laidback stretch of sand. A handy choice if you’ve got a car, there are just a handful of restaurants lining the beach, a young atmosphere and great views. A good choice for couples who want to escape the crowds. Stay at the 4* Be Live Grand Playa in Costa Teguise to take advantage of both areas.
La Graciosa Not strictly on Lanzarote, but seriously, you must visit this year; before everyone gets the same idea. Its soft golden sands can only be reached by a quick ferry from the north of the island. This is one to visit if you’re after a little peace and quiet, just remember, winds tend to be a bit stronger in the northern parts of the island, so it’s not so suitable for children. Stay at a charming self catering apartment in the town of Orzola.
Las Cucharas The main beach for the bustling and vibrant Costa Teguise area is a haven for water sports fanatics (known for its windsurfing) while kids have plenty of space for mucking about. Stay at the 3* El Trebol Apartments, a handy choice if you are looking for self catering holidays in Lanzarote this year.
Playa del Reducto in Arrecife is a Blue Flag delight, in a fantastic location with excellent facilities. Why not stroll the length of the seafront, or simply hop straight into the surf and cool off from the hot Canarian sun? It’s got plenty of facilities, loungers and beach bars, so you won’t be left wanting. A little further west you’ll find the more secluded Playa del Cable beach. It’s two for the price of one in Arrecife. Stay at the Arrecife Grand Hotel & Spa, a 5* hotel with panoramic views, tasty restaurant and is the island’s tallest building.
Playa Grande in Puerto del Carmen is well organised and packed with facilities like showers, life guards and loungers. There is a wealth of water sports on offer, while the Centro strip is ideal for youngsters who want to party hard after sunset. Stay at the cheap and cheerful Arena Dorada Apartments, only a few minutes from the beach, shopping and nightlife.
The Canary Islands is more than simply glorious beaches, great hotels and buckets of sunshine. The group of Islands just a stone’s throw from the coast of Africa offers some amazing natural surroundings too and one of our favourites is its VOLCANOES!
Each Island has its own “volcanic personality” with a hugely diverse population of flowers and plants, Dr Who-like scenery, stunning views of majestic mountains bathed in clouds and spa treatments made from the amazing naturally forming landscape. You can walk on lava fields, along cliff edges or discover strange life (possibly!) in the underground galleries. Volcano holidays offer something truly incredible for all ages.
Add that to great cheap hotels, wonderful beaches and basically, it’s got everything you need for an amazing holiday in 2013. Remember you can call us any time for a great cheap holiday in the Canary Islands – or anywhere else on 0207 993 9228 or visit our website: PurpleTravel.co.uk. But first, find out more about Volcano holidays in our guide:
There have been many eruptions among the islands since the 15th century, with the last one on La Palma in 1971. Today the islands are considered to be one of the most important volcanic sites; it is home to the third biggest volcano in the world, and Spain’s highest peak Mount Teide and the islands are regularly studied for their natural plant life and seismic activity.
So, if you’re taking the kids for a cheap family holiday to Tenerife, you want a cheap couples getaway in Gran Canaria or you simply want to enjoy a little more of this varied landscape, then here are a few of our top picks for groundbreaking volcano holidays!
Fuerteventura A windsurfer’s paradise, Fuerteventura is also the oldest in the archipelago. Visit the volcanic scenes at the Peninsula de Janida, Malpais de la Arena and Isla de Lobos. Apart from the rich flora and fauna you can find there, the long plains and volcanic mountains in the middle of the island will impress even the most hardened tourist. Plus, Fuerteventura has 152 beaches along its coastline, so you can catch the best of both worlds. Reason to go: This is the oldest of the islands, dating back a whopping 20 million years!
TenerifeOne of the busiest and most popular islands in the Canaries, Tenerife’s Teide Volcano is actually visible from most parts of the island. Today you can climb to the top, (the highest point in Spain) and it’s the third highest volcano in the world and is still registered as active. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the National Park is one of the most visited in the world. Reason to go: The unbelievably spectacular view, just be prepared for a climb!
Lanzarote The scene of some of the most recent volcanic activity (in the 70s) but don’t you dare let that put you off! The strange alien-like landscape is enough to take your breath away. The Timanfaya National Park is the centre of volcanic locations in the islands, and from the moment you arrive you’ll get a feel for how hot it is. Temperatures just a few metres towards the centre of the earth can hit 400°C! You can also check out La Geria or Los Hervideros for other lava exploring. Reason to go: For the Doctor Who style pics you can take when you get there.
Gran Canaria Visit the huge rolling craters on Gran Canaria to really get a taste of an historic land formed by hot lava straight from the earth’s core. Alongside its pure sandy beaches, lush greenery and buckets of sunshine, a day trip from Maspalomas or Playa del Ingles is made all the more impressive with the site of El Dodo de Dios (or God’s Finger) a rocky spire that juts out to the sea. Reason to go: The beach is the ultimate reward after a day’s exploring a Martian landscape!
For more information visit the excellent Canary Islands Tourism site here.
Andalusia, Spain With more than 300 sunny days per year, Andalusia in Spain is considered to be Europe’s sunniest location.
Yuma, Arizona, USA The brightest spot in the US is Yuma in Arizona with a whopping 4,050 hours of sun each year.
Southern Chile, South America The stunning country of Chile receives up to 17 hours of sunlight on some days in the year. That’s a lot of sunbathing time.
Cyprus In the summer months Cyprus is bathed in sunshine for up to 13 hours each and ever day. Time to grab a space on the beach.
Canary Islands, Spain Visit the Canary Islands in the summer and soak up the sun with 11 hours of golden rays per day.
Namibia, Africa With 300 days of sunshine, Namibia is the world’s queen of sunshine!
Lisbon, Portugal In mid spring and for the whole of summer, this scenic harbour city receives between 9 and 12 hours of sun per day. What are you waiting for?
Algeria, Africa With a sunshine average of 11.3 hours per day in July, Algeria is the ideal place to soak up that all important sun!
Marseilles, France Close to the Mediterranean Coast, Marseilles gets up to 12 hours of sunshine a day in the summertime.
Rhodes Island, Greece One of the biggest islands in Greece, Rhodes is also one of Europe’s sunniest destinations with about 300 days of sunshine a year.
Get the best deal for cheap holidays in the sunniest places in the world now from Purple Travel. Call today on 0207 993 9228 for more.
4. Valletta, Malta Average temperature in September 28 0C. The island’s capital is tiny – only 1km – but there’s plenty to see and do. Stroll down baroque-influenced streets, and wander narrow cobble-lined lanes or hop on the Sliema Ferry and work on your tan on the rocks. Remember, Valletta itself isn’t filled with sandy beaches, but makes a good base for discovering more. Image via @ Britrob
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