Self-catering used to mean Mom (okay, maybe sometimes Dad) in the kitchen slaving over a hot stove, just like home, while out in the woods the kids were getting poison ivy (stinging nettle rash in the UK).
Of course, self-catering isn't like that anymore. There are all sorts of great houses, cottages and flats to rent so that any place in the UK can feel like home from home, as we say. There are even a few amazing tree houses to stay in. And lately, a lot of gorgeous, big luxury houses have come on the market, with hot tubs, swimming pools, private cinemas.
So what's that about splinters, midge bites and stinging nettle rashes?
Photo of Stuckgowan House on Loch Lomond, courtesy of House Parties
Ever fancy staying in a New York-style loft apartment, all exposed beams, huge windows, flying staircases and loads of stainless steel? Well one of the Hot Deals on offer this week is just that - a huge loft in the Brighton's North Laines that sleeps 10 in chic, minimalist style. Take it midweek for the Brighton Festival or for dates well into June. And it's just one of the Fresh Hot Deals available this week.
Check it out, and all the rest as well as a few older deals that are still available.
Recently I stayed at a famous 5-star hotel in one of Bath's most iconic buildings. I was looking forward to a luxury treat in period surroundings. But my stay at the Royal Crescent Hotel in Bath left me wondering how recently its five-star status had been reviewed.
Read a no-holds-barred review of the Royal Crescent Hotel
© Ferne Arfin
Now that the weather has finally broken and it's hard to deny that spring is here - most of the time, anyway, the song of the open road is playing in my head. Time to bite the bullet, fill up the petrol tank and point the car in the direction of adventure.
I know that I am usually a big promoter of UK train travel. And there's no denying that most of the time, if your objective is getting from point A to point B, trains are the fastest and most environmentally friendly way to go.
On the other hand, if you are after leisurely touring through scenic villages and breathtaking scenery, there really is nothing that can replace the car.
If you are going to drive, though, and sacrifice all that eco-cred you've accumulated through all other aspects of your green lifestyle, you'd better make sure those miles really count.
These scenic routes, some of my favorite to drive, are definitely going to count.
Check out these Great Scenic Drives in Britain
© Ferne Arfin
