Finding planning that perfect holiday a hassle? The Holiday Guru is here to help.
This week Taiwan, budget hotels in Australia and holidays that cater to an interest in Greek mythology are the hot topics.
Q A recent TV programme about Taiwan made me interested in the fascinating island. How can I plan a trip? Mr M. W. Belton, Birkenhead.
Want a cheap trip to Taiwan? Try Regent Holidays or Travel Republic
A selective Asia organises tailor-made holidays. Direct return flights (13 hours, 45 minutes) are from about £700. With three-star hotels, an eight-night circular tour is from £3,000pp, taking in Taipei, the bustling capital (home to the brilliant National Palace Museum), the rugged east coast, Kenting National Park and the remote temples of Alishan (01273 760 001, selectiveasia.com).
For cheaper trips, try Regent Holidays (01174 536455, regent-holidays.co.uk) or Travel Republic (020 8974 7200, travelrepublic.co.uk).
Q We are flying to Australia, but will spend a few days in Singapore or Kuala Lumpur. Will our visa for Australia still be valid?
Diane, Edinburgh.
A Yes, as long as the visa dates are correct (immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas).
Q IS there a good budget hotel chain in Australia?
C. Throp, Pudsey, W. Yorks.
A Ibis has more than 50 hotels in Australia (ibis.accorhotels.com). Rates are from £53. Also try Adina (adinahotels.com.au), Travelodge (travelodge.com.au) and Holiday Inn Express (ihg.com).
Q My sons, aged 11 and 14, are fascinated by Greek mythology. Can you please recommend a holiday that caters for their interest?
Sian Argyle, via email.
A How about a few days in Athens? As well as the Acropolis, there’s the Temple of Zeus, the National Archaeological Museum and the Temple of Hephaestus.
Golden oldie: There is a smorgasbord of interesting sights in Athens for those who are interested in Greek mythology
Return Ryanair flights cost from £159 in July (ryanair.com). Stay at Wyndham Grand Athens (wyndhamhotels.com) for about £100. Further information is at greekgodsandgoddesses.net.
WE’RE HERE TO HELP
If you need advice, the Holiday Guru is here to answer your questions and provide tips for your precious time off. Send questions to: [email protected] or write to Daily Mail Travel, Northcliffe House, 2 Derry Street, London W8 5TT — and include your contact details. We will do our best to answer your queries. Please do not send in any original documents. We look forward to hearing from you.