There is no doubt that online casinos have really taken off in the last decade or so. With the necessity no longer there to attend the table in physical form, opportunities to place a punt remotely have risen.

The appeal, though, is totally different. Indeed, the proper glitz, glamour and spectacle is still found in the real deal destinations. And these are some of the best; our 4 IDEAL casino experiences from around the world.

CASINO DE MONTE-CARLO

This is arguably the most luxurious casino experience on the planet and one which puts the sass in spectacle. Housed in (surprise, surprise) Monte Carlo, in the south of France, the stunning landscape that surrounds it seems to set the tone for decadence and a little debauchery, too. A huge gambling and entertainment complex, and so much more than just a place for bets, this one. 

It’s so iconic, in fact, that the Royale-Les-Eaux Casino in famous Bond flick ‘Casino Royale’ is based on Monte Carlo’s grandest structure. Unlike many casinos desperate to lure you in with offers of freebies and entertainment, MCC retains a more exclusive air; there’s an entry fee and further charges to gain access to private rooms. As befits a casino of such overstated elegance, a dinner jacket must be worn after 8pm. 

THE RITZ CLUB 

When talking about global casino experiences, you have to include London – home of the megarich (pay your bloody taxes guys). One of the best casinos on offer currently in the capital is the glamorous Ritz Club, which is found in the swanky Ritz Hotel – well, duh. The setting here is opulent in the extreme, with a gorgeously decorated main room and exquisite carpets to tread and lavish furniture to sit upon. Games on offer here include punto banco, roulette and three-card poker. For an extra air of exclusivity, guests can play in one of three private rooms: the Amber, Carmen or Aida.

BELLAGIO 

Well, we’ve come far enough without mentioning Las Vegas, right? While there are so many contenders along the strip, it’s the Bellagio that still tops the luxury list. Opened in 1998 and perhaps not boasting the heritage of the others on our list, the big B has since been playing catch up and has established a reputation for luxury among gambling connoisseurs. 

This is a lively casino, for sure, but one that does not get too crowded like some in Vegas – this is mainly due to its location. While found in the heart of the Strip, it seems to manage to avoid the large crowds of tourists seen at other Vegas casinos. As well as the casino itself giving a break to remember, there is also the world-famous dancing fountains to see outside and the delicious buffet-style food options within to gorge on. 

KURHAUS

If you fancy heading into Europe, then the Kurhaus in Germany could be for you. This is actually a casino and spa resort set in Germany’s Black Forest, and the sense of seclusion just heightens the experience. Corinthian columns line the entrance to welcome you in, giving the impression you’re entering some kind of Greek orgy. Sadly, the frivolity doesn’t reach those extremes.

The Kurhaus does actually boast a great deal of history; it first became popular in the mid-1800s when France banned gambling and people crossed the border to get their fix. Even movie star Marlene Dietrich has played here and described it as the most beautiful casino she had ever seen. On offer within the hallowed walls are poker, blackjack and roulette, and if you do suffer a big loss, a trip to the spa may soothe your sins.

Maybe it’s that sense of familiarity. Perhaps it’s an intimacy which has been developed through years of having your hands on each other. Or could it simply be a laziness about looking for a better model? Whatever the reason, it’s certainly true that most of us prefer our own wheels when driving abroad.

But what if you currently don’t own a car and need to rent, instead? Well, in some countries, the steering wheel and the gearbox might be on the opposite side. As such, it might take a while for you to get accustomed to the car no matter how good a driver you are.

Because of this, another option has been gaining traction in recent years; leasing a car on home turf, getting used to it, and then taking it on the road on the continent, confident. Should you be curious about the feasibility of this, then read on; our 4 IDEAL tips for using your lease car abroad.

GET THE RELEVANT PERMISSIONS

To travel by your lease car abroad, you need to get the relevant documents to present to the authorities in a particular country. Usually, when driving to, and in, a foreign country, you’ll have to provide the authorities with proof that the vehicle is yours or you have the correct permissions to have leased it and left the country. 

If you’re traveling by a lease car, you’ll need written permission from your personal car leasing company to drive the vehicle into another country. Remember traveling abroad will mean covering more mileage so ask about this and how it will affect your lease as well; some companies will put a cap on the amount of distance you can cover.

INSURANCE & BREAKDOWN 

As the driver and contract holder, it’s crucial to make sure that your car has proper breakdown and insurance cover. Additionally, make sure that your cover is valid in the country you’re going to. If it isn’t, then the whole exercise is pointless. Some companies offer the most basic protection when traveling abroad, so be aware and make the necessary changes and adjustments before leaving.

If you’re traveling by a company car, be sure to go through your company policies to know to what extent you’re covered. You should note that you might incur some out of pocket costs when adding on to your insurance cover.

ALWAYS CARRY THE CORRECT PAPERWORK

Besides having written permission from your rental company, you’ll need other documents such as a valid driving license, passport, work permit, or visa, depending on the purpose of your visit. Most importantly, you need to know if you have the right type of license.

You can currently use your GB or Northern Ireland driving licence in all EU or European Economic Area (EEA) countries, and Switzerland. Brexit-willing, these rules will stay the same. However, if you’re driving outside the EU/EEA you may need an international driving permit. You can get one from the AA, the RAC of the Post Office.

FAMILIARISE YOURSELF WITH LOCAL DRIVING LAWS

From one country to the next, each nation across the globe will have their unique set of traffic laws, some familiar, some obscure. In Switzerland, for instance, you’re not allowed to wash your car on a Sunday; so hands away from the soap and bucket! In Germany, it’s permitted to drive in nothing but your shoes; marvellous news.

Laws may differ from town to province and city, too, so you need to make sure you’re well prepared. By learning all you can about the specific rules of the road where you plan to go, such as seatbelt use, speed limits, and blood alcohol levels, you’ll avoid any hiccups (yep, stay away from the booze) with the local police. And unlike the UK, driving on the right-hand side of the road is universal throughout continental Europe.

That said, as the team at East Coast, who offer Brisbane airport car hire, tell us, it’s back to the left of the road in Australia, and many other former UK colonies like New Zealand, South Africa and India. But you knew that already, right?

With 71% of the planet covered by ocean, we think it’s fair to say that there are more incredible diving spots around the world than you can shake a snorkel at. However, one place known more than most for it’s beautiful, abundant coastline is Australia. From its colourful coral reefs to the north, to the giant kelp forests in the south, and its multitude of shipwrecks scattered throughout the sea off the cosmopolitan coastal capital of Adelaide, Australia has it all when it comes to scuba diving. So, get ready to descend into another world down under with these; our 5 IDEAL place to scuba dive in Australia. 

OSPREY REEF

Most non-divers associate diving in Australia with the Great Barrier reef, and rightly so. Exploring the world’s largest single structure comprised of living organisms is certainly the draw for scuba diving enthusiasts. There’s no shortage of shark action either for those seeking a thrill. Of course, with it being such a large body, you’ll need to narrow down your attentions. Located in the coral sea off the North Queensland coast, Osprey reef is considered to be arguably the best diving spot in the world. It includes the famous shark feed dive at North Horn so apart from your diving equipment, you’d best bring your bravery.

NEPTUNE ISLAND 

Crikey is that a great white shark I see? When you’re diving off South Australia’s Neptune Islands, the answer is probably yes. If you want to take part in surface cage diving, where you’re suspended in a steel cage just below the surface of the ocean and sharks are attracted by rolicking AC/DC playing over the underwater speakers, then you’ll be pleased to hear you don’t need any previous experience. However, if you’re a qualified diver, you have the option of travelling down to the depths of the ocean’s floor and taking in some truly unique creatures of the deep. Be sure to bring an underwater propulsion device to make that deep, deep diving a little easier. 

SS YONGALA WRECK 

It’s not only about shoals, sharks and sealife; diving around Australia is also about checking out some of the most fascinating shipwrecks on the planet. The SS Yongala wreck is just one of these. Close to Townsville in Queensland, it’s a bucket list dive, and that’s for sure. In fact, it’s considered to be one of the best wreck dives in the world. No survivors were left when a cyclone hit the luxury passenger ship back in 1911, but plenty of wreckage remains. 

FISH ROCK  

Fish Rock Cave offers just what it says on the tin; a 124 metre rock formation – full of fish – which incidentally is the only true ocean cave in Australia. This dive is located about 2 kilometres off Smokey at South West Rocks, and anyone who has dived here will tell you it’s an experience like no other. As you enter the mouth of the cave, you’re met by the silhouettes of hundreds of fish surrounding it, making a truly spectacular sight even for the most experienced of divers. What’s more, the critically endangered grey nurse shark gather here in their hundreds to feed, mate and give birth. Catch a glimpse of one before it’s too late.

JULIAN ROCKS

Situated about 2.5km from Cape Byron, Julian Rocks is a marine reserve that’s home to over 1000 marine species. Indeed, sea turtles, humpback whales, sharks and mantas, to name but a few, all like to call this nature reserve home. What makes this truly unique is that at Julian Rocks you’ll not only be swimming alongside shoals of fish and other gilled wonders, but you’ll also be rubbing shoulders with three different species of sea turtle. Wowzers!

It’s hard to find someone who doesn’t love to travel. The desire to explore new destinations, see new sights and learn new things is a narrative thread which runs through the very fabric of the human psyche, for most people at least. Whilst this is a passion that certainly unites us, it’s also true to say that one person’s idea of a dream holiday may well be another’s idea of one from hell. On the marmite spectrum of themed trips, one based around sport seems to delight and disgust travellers in much equal measure. If you’re in the former camp, then read on; our 6 IDEAL cities to visit worldwide if you’re a sports fan.

NEW YORK, USA

If North American sport is your thing, then you’ll be spoilt for choice in New York.  Whether it be ice hockey, basketball, baseball or NFL, many of the biggest teams in America ply their trade in the Big Apple. New York Yankees, Brooklyn Nets, New York Knicks, New York Giants, New York Jets, New York Islanders and New York Rangers…the list goes on. New York is also home to New York City FC and New York Red Bulls in the increasingly popular Major Soccer League.

Perhaps most spectacular is that New York hosts one of the ‘Grand Slam’ tennis tournaments each and every year, so a trip to New York isn’t only a great choice for fans of North American sports, it can be an excellent option for tennis aficionados as well. 

LONDON, UK

If you love your football, London is the place to be. During the current 2019/20 Premier League campaign there are six teams in London playing week in, week out in the competition. Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur are all elite European teams doing their thing in the capital, and each have modern, supersized stadiums (Spurs only finished their new stadium a couple of months ago) which are worth a look even if the footy isn’t on.

Teams from all over the country come to play in the capital, so whether you’re an avid Arsenal fan or a real Reading supporter, you can see some of the best clubs play in the capital. Should you be watching either of the huge North London teams, check out our article on the best places to eat in the area here.

You can also enjoy international and club cricket at Lords’ Cricket Ground and the Oval, international and club rugby at Twickenham and of course Wimbledon during the summer, which is arguably the most iconic tennis tournament of them all.

TOKYO, JAPAN

The Japanese follow baseball closely and there are two big teams to watch when in Tokyo; The Yomiuri Giants and Tokyo Yakult Swallows are the major teams in the city and both play in the Nippon Professional Baseball’s Central League.

Football also has a big following with FC Tokyo being the top team, closely followed by Tokyo Verdy. Rugby Union is progressing nicely in Japan and Tokyo is home to the Sunwolves who play in the International Super Rugby competition. With the Rugby World Cup being hosted here right now, the sport is only set to get bigger. Also, don’t forget to check in with a sumo wrestling event; a fantastic opportunity to experience an authentic Japanese sporting event when in the capital.

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL

If you want to experience football with a passion that puts our British rivalries to shame, then a trip to Rio De Janeiro is a must. Home to Botafogo, Flamengo, Fluminense and Vasco Da Gama, some of the most historic teams in world football play in this iconic city.  Not only that, but Rio De Janeiro is home to the Maracanã Stadium, which is one of the biggest and most atmospheric in the world, especially when the Brazil national team are in action.

Volleyball and basketball are also popular in Rio De Janeiro but if you want to have a game of football just head to the Copacabana Beach where you will always find the locals playing.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA

For those who enjoy cricket, Melbourne is a great place to visit as it is home to the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), which is the largest cricket stadium in the whole world. Watching the Boxing Day Test Match in Melbourne is a fine tradition indeed (and a boozy one at that) but there are plenty of sports to watch aside from cricket if you’d like your trip to be a more all-encompassing affair where sport is concerned.

Australian Football, rugby league, rugby union and the Australian Open tennis tournament are all big draws for sports fans in Melbourne, too. There’s also the Australian Grand Prix which is held at Melbourne Grand Prix Circuit for those into motor racing. Something for everyone, indeed.

CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

The main spectator sports in Cape Town are cricket and rugby union, make no mistake. If you’d like to see the international or top local teams in action then a trip to Newlands is a must. Here you’ll find Newlands Stadium and this is home to the South Africa rugby union team, the Stormers and Western Province.

The Sahara Newlands Stadium is where you will find the South Africa international cricket team, plus the Cape Cobras and Western Province cricket teams also ply their trade here. If you want to catch a football match, you can, at the 34,000 capacity Athlone Stadium, home of Santos Cape Town. 

There are few images more iconic to the United States than the open highway. From Route 66 to the Blue Ridge Parkway, the idea of the Great American Roadtrip is firmly planted in the popular consciousness – and there are few better places to enjoy this quintessential travel experience than the state of Florida. So if you dream of cruising through Sunshine State (ideally with the wind in your hair and Born to be Wild playing at full volume) then read on; our 5 IDEAL ways to plan a road trip through Florida.

BOOKEND YOUR TRIP

As a highly-sought after travel destination, accommodation in Florida can be on the expensive side, and that’s putting it bluntly. Rather than letting costs run away with you throughout your trip, it can be a great idea to bookend the start and end of your journey with something a little bit special – before choosing more rustic accommodation as you travel. That way, you settle in smoothly to the new timezone, climate and culture, and at the tail end, you can rest your weary bones after time spent on the road.

Consider beginning your road trip soaking up the sun on white-sand beaches in Destin, or end it by enjoying some theme park thrills with a villa near Disney World, Orlando – whatever you choose, by bookending your trip with some high-end indulgence, you can add a luxury element (and those all important Instagram snaps that come with it) without breaking the bank.

SET A ROUGH DAILY BUDGET

According to The Broke Backpacker, the average daily costs of a roadtrip in Florida will include: 

• Camping: $5-$20
• Hostel: $25-$35
• Rental car: $30-$100
• RV rental: $100-$300
• Gallon of gas: $2.85

Add in food costs (and perhaps the occasional drink or two; you’re only human) and you’re looking at around $150-$200 a day, at the least. To avoid getting caught out, have at least a rough plan as to where you’ll be staying every night, and determine a general food budget. Even if you decide to push the boat out at a restaurant one night and make up for it with some instant noodles the next day, knowing what your costs will be in advance really is helpful, and allows you to make the best choices along the way. 

CONSIDER AN RV

Although generally more expensive, renting an RV can be a good option due to the freedom it grants – taking away the pressure to be at a certain location at a certain time. If it includes a kitchenette, you’ll also save money on eating out, and many even come with tiny but usable showers. And that’s all you need on the road, right?

Do bear in mind that an RV road trip can be expensive if you’re staying in an RV park every night (providing electricity, water etc.), so be sure to check out the numerous dispersed camping sites throughout Florida. These sites are typically free, but may not provide all the amenities of a paid campsite. WikiCamps is a great app that highlights all the paid and free camping options throughout the U.S so have it downloaded and readied on your phone before you hit the road.

PLAN YOUR ROUTE, BUT LEAVE ROOM FOR FLEXIBILITY

Florida, while far from the largest US state (that honour goes to Alaska) is enormous. Pensacola in the north to Key West at Florida’s southernmost tip is a 12 hour and 40 minute drive – presuming you neither stop for food or hit any traffic. Which you will. If you have two to three weeks on your hands, it’s possible to explore the entire coast (and a bit extra) at an enjoyable pace, but with so much to see and do, you may prefer to focus your route on a particular region or road. 

If you are one of life’s daredevils, simply hiring a vehicle and going where the wind takes you might have some appeal. However, for most people it’s highly advisable to plan your route in advance – with knowledge of the roads, travel times and must-see destinations plotted out beforehand. Bear in mind that Florida is scattered with toll roads, and some don’t accept cash. There’s a full guide on the Visit Florida website, and the option to prepay with a SunPass, which removes a certain amount of stress.

TRAVEL TO A THEME

The different areas of Florida vary immensely in landscape, atmosphere and culture. For example, the northern region has a lot of classic Southern charm (with its connection to Georgia, Alabama and Mississippi), while Miami feels more modern, multicultural and ideal for a good party. Within the space of a few hours’ drive, you can also find yourself going from swampy wilderness to island paradise. 

While you may want to take in everything you have time for, with so much variety on offer, it can be helpful to travel to a theme. There is plenty of outdoor adventure to be had if you want to hop between state parks and natural wonders, or you can follow the AIA across the Atlantic coast to check out all the best surfing beaches. You can even go from city to city if you are more interested in culture and history, and of course, partying, or you do an epic theme park tour – the options really are endless. Keep some focus, and the Sunshine State will treat you kindly in return.

This post was written by travel professionals and Florida fans Top Villas, who offer Florida vacation villas to travellers and holidaymakers. 

This just in; Melbourne has narrowly missed out on top spot in the ‘World’s Most Liveable City List’, coming second to Vienna. Now, this shouldn’t be news. Second best in the entire world’s worth of cities certainly isn’t losing. We only mention it because for eight of the nine previous years, it’s come out on top. 

It’s easy to see why. A hugely diverse, cosmopolitan community, with artistic, inclusive vibes down every alleyway and wide open, green spaces to match, Australia’s second city has it all. We’re here today to talk about the food, and there’s no chance you’ll go hungry here. With that in mind, here are 5 IDEAL foodie things to do in Melbourne.

WELCOME TO THORNBURY

An emerging trend all over the world, not just in Melbourne, is the boom of food trucks, allowing chefs and caterers to reach new audiences in new settings and in highly unique ways. At Welcome to Thornbury, housed between Northcote and Thornbury, you’ll find a rotating cast of the finest meals on wheels. This is, in fact, the only permanent food truck and bar park in Melbourne, and a superb night out rubbing shoulders with the culinary connoisseurs – or simply the culinarily curious – of the city. 

EXPLORE QUEEN VICTORIA MARKET

If gourmands are to make one stop in Melbourne on their foodie day out, then it has to be at Queen Victoria Market (Vic Market). The market is built on an old graveyard, so be wary if you’re superstitious or fear burial grounds, but if you’re not, it’s time to go all in with hungry bellies and hands in pockets. There’s spending to be done.

Vic Market is particularly famous for its fresh food items and local produce. Expect kangaroo, durian and the country’s finest rock lobster, to name but a few of the fine items available here. During the warmer months, there’s live music events aplenty hosted here. Rocking sounds and delicious food; what could be better?

ENJOY SPANISH & LATIN AMERICAN CUISINE

In Melbourne, cultures and customs converge in a truly cosmopolitan way, and true to form, you can enjoy some superb Spanish and Latin American cuisine in the heart of the city. One place that never disappoints is Vamos, the highly regarded tapas bar on Little Bourke Street. The vibe here is lively and convivial, and their cherry flan dessert has something of a cult following.

If you’re after some quality Argentinian beef flown in from Buenos Aires, properly dry-aged and cooked over flame, then San Telmo is the ticket. The all Argentinian wine list is excellent too. And if it’s ceviche you’re after, head to Patstuso, the finest Peruvian in the city. 

GO FOR A PICNIC IN CARLTON GARDENS

Carlton Gardens, a world heritage site which sits adjacent to the Melbourne Museum, is a wonderful spot for a picnic. The vibe is ornamental and elaborate, with fountains and flower beds offering rare beauty and a great backdrop for a lunchtime feast. The park boasts picnic tables aplenty, and seeing as it’s just a four minute walk from the aforementioned Queen Vic Market, your grazing itinerary writes itself.

TREAT YOURSELF TO PIZZA IN LITTLE ITALY

Little Italy is located on leafy Lygon Street and boasts Italian restaurants, delis and plenty of pizza. Often cited as the ‘birthplace of Melbourne’s cafe culture’, it would be rude not to enjoy an alfresco espresso here and watch the world go by. After that, it’s a spot of shopping for fine charcuterie and cheese at D.O.C Delicatessen and La Latteria. To finish your foodie day, it’s got to be Mercadante, for wood-fired pizza and wine by the carafe. ‘When in Rome’, as they say. Or Melbourne.