0:00:03 > 0:00:06A holiday is the single most expensive thing
0:00:06 > 0:00:09the majority of us will buy each year,
0:00:09 > 0:00:13so there's a heck of a lot of pressure to get it right.
0:00:13 > 0:00:18Finding the perfect getaway should now be easier than it's ever been,
0:00:18 > 0:00:20because we've never had so many choices
0:00:20 > 0:00:23and so many deals to consider.
0:00:23 > 0:00:26So, why do so many of us still wind up disappointed?
0:00:26 > 0:00:30Two-thirds of Brits spend more than they planned
0:00:30 > 0:00:33when they go away, whilst more than half settle for a destination
0:00:33 > 0:00:35they've already been to.
0:00:35 > 0:00:39So, we'll be giving you all the tricks, insights and advice
0:00:39 > 0:00:43you need to up the ambition of your holidays without breaking the bank.
0:00:47 > 0:00:49Tonight, we're going to meet two sets of holiday-makers
0:00:49 > 0:00:52fed up with their normal trips away.
0:00:52 > 0:00:56You've saved all year for it. Just nothing like what you had imagined.
0:00:56 > 0:01:01Using their own cash, we're going to prove that, with a little legwork,
0:01:01 > 0:01:05it's easier to secure better breaks than they ever thought possible.
0:01:05 > 0:01:07It's lacking the confidence and the skills
0:01:07 > 0:01:10to book all these different bits and pieces.
0:01:12 > 0:01:15Also on the show, Steph McGovern is on the hunt
0:01:15 > 0:01:17for the very best up-and-coming destinations.
0:01:17 > 0:01:19Could this Middle Eastern country
0:01:19 > 0:01:21have everything your family's looking for?
0:01:21 > 0:01:23Oh, I could get used to this.
0:01:24 > 0:01:27And Richard Madeley offers his personal guide
0:01:27 > 0:01:28to one of his favourite cities.
0:01:28 > 0:01:31We were told, back home in the UK, that it was impossible
0:01:31 > 0:01:34to find a hotel with a view into St Mark's Square.
0:01:34 > 0:01:37In Venice, anything's possible.
0:01:40 > 0:01:42- I'm Ade Adepitan. - And I'm Cherry Healey
0:01:42 > 0:01:44and, together, we're going to show you...
0:01:44 > 0:01:47- TOGETHER:- How to holiday better.
0:02:01 > 0:02:04If you want help getting the most from your trips abroad,
0:02:04 > 0:02:06then this is the show for you.
0:02:06 > 0:02:08With the travel industry's leading experts,
0:02:08 > 0:02:11we've sourced all the tips, tools and advice you need
0:02:11 > 0:02:13to organise your perfect getaway.
0:02:14 > 0:02:17To show you what to do, we're heading to Greece.
0:02:17 > 0:02:20It's one of the UK's most popular destinations.
0:02:20 > 0:02:24It's blessed with over 250 days of sunshine
0:02:24 > 0:02:26and, if you play your cards right,
0:02:26 > 0:02:30it's one of the cheapest countries to visit in all of Europe.
0:02:31 > 0:02:34So, Greece is the perfect place to demonstrate
0:02:34 > 0:02:37how many exciting and affordable options there are out there,
0:02:37 > 0:02:39if only you knew where to look.
0:02:39 > 0:02:41And that's where we come in.
0:02:44 > 0:02:47We're going to take two sets of holiday-makers
0:02:47 > 0:02:49who routinely book the same type of breaks
0:02:49 > 0:02:53and help them to think outside the box.
0:02:53 > 0:02:56MUSIC: Sur Une Nappe De Restaurant by Jacques Dutronc
0:02:57 > 0:03:00First up, Jenny and Andy Berry.
0:03:00 > 0:03:04When they go away, they always choose hassle-free, pre-paid,
0:03:04 > 0:03:06all-inclusive deals.
0:03:07 > 0:03:10But, with 12-year-old Matthew to keep entertained,
0:03:10 > 0:03:12plus new arrival, baby Libby, to look after,
0:03:12 > 0:03:15they feel the time is right to try something new.
0:03:15 > 0:03:18# Evidemment ca va de soi
0:03:18 > 0:03:21# Ca va de soi evidemment... #
0:03:24 > 0:03:27So, I've come to the Berrys' hometown of Bolton
0:03:27 > 0:03:30to see if I can help and, with weather like this,
0:03:30 > 0:03:33it's no wonder they want to get away.
0:03:34 > 0:03:39- Why have you always done all-inclusive?- Ease, if I'm honest.
0:03:39 > 0:03:41You set your budget and then you go online
0:03:41 > 0:03:44and you've got your flight, your hotel, your room.
0:03:44 > 0:03:46Everything's already done for you.
0:03:46 > 0:03:48And how has that worked out for you?
0:03:48 > 0:03:51Sometimes great, sometimes not so great.
0:03:53 > 0:03:56- How small does Matthew look? - You couldn't swim there, could you?
0:03:56 > 0:03:59This is where you'd just started to learn to swim.
0:03:59 > 0:04:01A trip abroad means a rare chance
0:04:01 > 0:04:04for the Berrys to spend quality time together...
0:04:04 > 0:04:07- It's nice to, kind of...- Have the full week and enjoy yourselves...
0:04:07 > 0:04:10- Relax.- ..and all be together as a family.- Do what WE want to do.
0:04:10 > 0:04:12..but their hassle-free all-inclusives
0:04:12 > 0:04:14aren't always that hassle-free...
0:04:14 > 0:04:16I think we have been a bit let down in the past
0:04:16 > 0:04:20- by trusting photos and reviews and what websites say.- Yeah.
0:04:20 > 0:04:23On some of the holidays, we've ended up upgrading our hotel room
0:04:23 > 0:04:25because the room they've shown us weren't up to scratch.
0:04:25 > 0:04:27Or some of the excursions are so expensive
0:04:27 > 0:04:29that we can't go on them, sometimes.
0:04:29 > 0:04:32..and now baby Libby has joined the family,
0:04:32 > 0:04:34the benefits seem even less obvious.
0:04:34 > 0:04:36We're paying for this holiday that's all-inclusive -
0:04:36 > 0:04:38but do we need all the alcohol?
0:04:38 > 0:04:40It's just changing the holiday up a little bit,
0:04:40 > 0:04:42so it's a bit more compatible for us as a four,
0:04:42 > 0:04:44rather than just as a two or a three.
0:04:46 > 0:04:49Matthew, what do you love about holidays?
0:04:49 > 0:04:53I like the food, the swimming pool and the landmarks.
0:04:53 > 0:04:55So, the culture?
0:04:55 > 0:04:58God, you've got the best 12-year-old ever!
0:04:58 > 0:05:00He does. He really enjoys it.
0:05:00 > 0:05:04- So, do you know what your budget is for this holiday?- Yes.
0:05:04 > 0:05:07Around £2,500.
0:05:07 > 0:05:12So, will you trust me to spend your money
0:05:12 > 0:05:15- to get you an incredible holiday? - Yeah.
0:05:17 > 0:05:20So, with the Berrys on board and things looking brighter,
0:05:20 > 0:05:21it's time for Ade to meet
0:05:21 > 0:05:25the other brave holiday-makers willing to hand over their cash.
0:05:29 > 0:05:31# C'est le temps de l'amour
0:05:31 > 0:05:34# Le temps des copains... #
0:05:34 > 0:05:37Best friends Stella and Lyn have ambitions
0:05:37 > 0:05:39to see all the wonders of the world...
0:05:39 > 0:05:42# On ne pense a rien malgre ses blessures.... #
0:05:42 > 0:05:45..but they aren't making things easy for themselves
0:05:45 > 0:05:48because they're trying to do it all via package tours.
0:05:48 > 0:05:50I travel independently all the time,
0:05:50 > 0:05:55so I want to show them there's no reason to be afraid of going solo.
0:05:55 > 0:05:57# On se dit qu'a vingt ans
0:05:57 > 0:05:59# On est le roi du monde... #
0:05:59 > 0:06:01Bloody case!
0:06:01 > 0:06:03LYN LAUGHS
0:06:09 > 0:06:11Hello, hello, hello!
0:06:11 > 0:06:15- Hello.- Hello.- I'm Ade. - Nice to meet you.- Stella.
0:06:15 > 0:06:17Lyn and Stella met each other at their local knitting club,
0:06:17 > 0:06:21less than two years ago, and instantly became inseparable...
0:06:21 > 0:06:24You don't necessarily go looking for people like this,
0:06:24 > 0:06:27but when they come into your life, it's a bonus.
0:06:27 > 0:06:29..bonding over a mutual passion for travelling.
0:06:29 > 0:06:31If funds were unlimited, we'd be on holiday
0:06:31 > 0:06:33as much as we could, all the time.
0:06:33 > 0:06:36They've already clocked up five trips together...
0:06:36 > 0:06:37That's the one.
0:06:37 > 0:06:39..and enjoy nothing more than taking in
0:06:39 > 0:06:41historical monuments and landmarks.
0:06:41 > 0:06:45We've actually been known to cry in front of a pile of bricks.
0:06:45 > 0:06:47However, their cash is limited...
0:06:47 > 0:06:52I've got five children, 29 grandchildren,
0:06:52 > 0:06:56about six great-grandchildren, so I have to budget really, really well.
0:06:58 > 0:07:01..but prearranged tours can set you back a fair bit
0:07:01 > 0:07:04and don't leave you much room for manoeuvre.
0:07:04 > 0:07:07It would be nice to be more independent,
0:07:07 > 0:07:09so that it's more tailored to exactly what WE want,
0:07:09 > 0:07:12I would say, rather than a coach full of people.
0:07:15 > 0:07:19- What do you expect when you go on holiday?- All-singing, all-dancing.
0:07:19 > 0:07:22I'm one of these ladies - I've got champagne tastes
0:07:22 > 0:07:25- but lemonade pockets. - What about you, Stella?
0:07:25 > 0:07:28Just to make sure you don't miss something that's fantastic
0:07:28 > 0:07:30and you regret it when you get back.
0:07:30 > 0:07:32So, what's your budget?
0:07:32 > 0:07:35Well, at this moment in time, we're looking about £900 each.
0:07:35 > 0:07:37OK, I really think
0:07:37 > 0:07:40that I can match what you get on your package holiday,
0:07:40 > 0:07:42but up the ante -
0:07:42 > 0:07:44give you your dream holiday...
0:07:44 > 0:07:45but there's one catch,
0:07:45 > 0:07:49and that is you're going to have to entrust me with your money.
0:07:49 > 0:07:51- Are you up for that?- Go on.- Deal.
0:07:51 > 0:07:54MUSIC: Pictures Of Matchstick Men by Status Quo
0:08:05 > 0:08:08Instead of their usual all-inclusive,
0:08:08 > 0:08:13we've sent the Berrys on their first ever self-catering holiday.
0:08:13 > 0:08:15Hello, baba.
0:08:15 > 0:08:18Hey-hey, I'm excited!
0:08:21 > 0:08:25We've flown them to a lesser-known Greek island called Lefkada.
0:08:25 > 0:08:29There are great deals to be had by going off the beaten track
0:08:29 > 0:08:31and avoiding major resorts.
0:08:31 > 0:08:34Lefkada has sun, sea and sand galore -
0:08:34 > 0:08:36plus plenty of places to eat and drink
0:08:36 > 0:08:40and some fascinating Greek culture to experience...
0:08:41 > 0:08:44..and, by booking it at the end of the school holidays,
0:08:44 > 0:08:45when the season was winding down,
0:08:45 > 0:08:49it allowed us to achieve wonders with the Berrys' budget.
0:08:49 > 0:08:52MUSIC: Melo Dos Dois Bicudos by Azymuth
0:08:58 > 0:09:03They're going to be staying at this luxury private villa.
0:09:03 > 0:09:06- Just leave the suitcases there, Matthew.- Wow!
0:09:06 > 0:09:09- Look at our new digs, Libby. - This is well good!
0:09:09 > 0:09:13We found it using comparison websites. It's worth knowing
0:09:13 > 0:09:16that they charge commission, so you can get cheaper prices
0:09:16 > 0:09:19by going direct to the owners.
0:09:19 > 0:09:22Whoa, look at the view outside! Look at the mountains over there.
0:09:22 > 0:09:25- I was just looking at the clouds. - Amazing, aren't they?
0:09:25 > 0:09:28You have real bargaining power when demand is low,
0:09:28 > 0:09:31so we managed to negotiate a 22% discount
0:09:31 > 0:09:34from the best advertised price online.
0:09:34 > 0:09:36It's better than our kitchen at home, this.
0:09:36 > 0:09:40The villa's got everything the Berrys want -
0:09:40 > 0:09:46and the best thing about this place, it's got its very own private pool,
0:09:46 > 0:09:50which already seems a big hit with Matthew.
0:09:50 > 0:09:52What's Matthew doing?
0:09:55 > 0:09:56I did it!
0:10:00 > 0:10:03Although this is a self-catered villa,
0:10:03 > 0:10:06there's a central reception, so the Berrys still get the same support
0:10:06 > 0:10:09they're familiar with at an all-inclusive hotel.
0:10:09 > 0:10:13One thing they aren't used to, though, is the amount of space.
0:10:13 > 0:10:16The thought of being cooped up in a hotel room
0:10:16 > 0:10:17feels a bit claustrophobic.
0:10:19 > 0:10:21This is very different from our usual holidays.
0:10:21 > 0:10:24I feel like it's our home away from home. It's got everything we need.
0:10:24 > 0:10:26It's... It's beautiful.
0:10:26 > 0:10:29Even though there's other villas dotted around,
0:10:29 > 0:10:30you can't hear anybody.
0:10:30 > 0:10:33To be honest, it's what we didn't like about going all-inclusive,
0:10:33 > 0:10:35cos it's the fact you're in with the masses -
0:10:35 > 0:10:38and it's really nice just to be on your own as a family
0:10:38 > 0:10:39and chill out and relax.
0:10:45 > 0:10:47In the north of the country,
0:10:47 > 0:10:50it's time to start Lyn and Stella's Greek adventure.
0:10:50 > 0:10:53We've ditched the package tours and, instead, organised a bespoke trip
0:10:53 > 0:10:58that I hope will be a much better way for them to enjoy the country.
0:10:58 > 0:11:01I've done my best to come up with an itinerary that I think will work,
0:11:01 > 0:11:06but the ladies have never travelled on their own in this way before.
0:11:06 > 0:11:08An awful lot could go wrong.
0:11:10 > 0:11:13Starting in the second city of Thessaloniki,
0:11:13 > 0:11:14they're going to head south,
0:11:14 > 0:11:17travelling almost 400 miles through the mainland,
0:11:17 > 0:11:19before reaching the capital, Athens.
0:11:19 > 0:11:21They'll be travelling by road, rail and sea,
0:11:21 > 0:11:25taking in some of the country's most stunning sights along the way.
0:11:27 > 0:11:30- Take a pew.- Hello.- Thank you.
0:11:30 > 0:11:33- How are you both doing? - Fine, thanks.- Not bad, not bad.
0:11:33 > 0:11:36Why are you looking so nervous?! Relax, chill.
0:11:36 > 0:11:40We're going to show you some of the best things you can do over here
0:11:40 > 0:11:42and you're going to do it all on your own -
0:11:42 > 0:11:44but first things first.
0:11:44 > 0:11:46I want you to catch a train
0:11:46 > 0:11:49to a town called Kalabaka. Can you do that?
0:11:49 > 0:11:51Yeah...
0:11:51 > 0:11:52Come on!
0:11:52 > 0:11:54To your journey through Greece.
0:11:54 > 0:11:58- Lovely.- Cheers. - Cheers.- Cheers, me dear.- Mm.
0:12:02 > 0:12:05They've entrusted me with their money,
0:12:05 > 0:12:08and holidays are such personal things
0:12:08 > 0:12:10and what I might think is amazing, they might look at
0:12:10 > 0:12:12and think, "He's having a laugh. What is he doing?"
0:12:14 > 0:12:16I'm sort of bubbling at the minute.
0:12:16 > 0:12:19I don't know if it's the excitement being here or what.
0:12:19 > 0:12:23The hairs on the back of my neck are all sort of, ba, ba, ba.
0:12:27 > 0:12:29Getting a foreign train may seem daunting,
0:12:29 > 0:12:33but there's no check-in to contend with, no baggage restrictions.
0:12:33 > 0:12:35If you buy tickets far enough in advance,
0:12:35 > 0:12:37it's great value for money.
0:12:40 > 0:12:43Can I have two tickets to Kalabaka, please?
0:12:44 > 0:12:4621 per person?
0:12:48 > 0:12:54- Bags wrestled on board, our ladies are bound for Kalabaka.- Oh, my God.
0:12:54 > 0:12:57MUSIC: Postcards From Italy by Beirut
0:13:00 > 0:13:03If you're planning a European train journey,
0:13:03 > 0:13:06check out the Deutsche Bahn website.
0:13:06 > 0:13:08It has full timetable info for the whole continent,
0:13:08 > 0:13:11it's available in English and it's free.
0:13:11 > 0:13:14This experience is the first time we've done anything like this
0:13:14 > 0:13:16on a train or anything,
0:13:16 > 0:13:21but this is not a bad way of seeing all what's going past.
0:13:21 > 0:13:23It's great, the view and what you're seeing -
0:13:23 > 0:13:26but I didn't think getting the bags on was very good.
0:13:26 > 0:13:27THEY LAUGH
0:13:27 > 0:13:31Three hours and 180 miles later, the ladies arrive
0:13:31 > 0:13:35and pick up a little message from yours truly.
0:13:35 > 0:13:38- Oh, it's from Ade.- Oh, go on, then. Quick, go on. What's next?
0:13:38 > 0:13:41- What's next?- Good afternoon, ladies.
0:13:41 > 0:13:43I hope your train journey was comfortable,
0:13:43 > 0:13:44you've behaved yourselves.
0:13:44 > 0:13:47Now, I've booked a hotel nearby. Unpack, settle in.
0:13:51 > 0:13:54Hotels are generally busier and more expensive at weekends
0:13:54 > 0:13:58but, because the ladies were flexible enough to travel midweek,
0:13:58 > 0:14:01they got a £24-a-night rate reduction.
0:14:02 > 0:14:05That's gorgeous! Oh, look!
0:14:07 > 0:14:09There is, however, one neat way to bag a bargain room
0:14:09 > 0:14:11on a Friday and Saturday.
0:14:13 > 0:14:15If you're staying in a city over a weekend,
0:14:15 > 0:14:17you can save yourself a lot of money
0:14:17 > 0:14:20by booking a hotel in the financial district.
0:14:20 > 0:14:22Most of the business customers head home,
0:14:22 > 0:14:26the demand for the rooms decreases, and so do the prices.
0:14:26 > 0:14:28Where did HE go?
0:14:29 > 0:14:33Whenever you're staying, always compare B&B rates
0:14:33 > 0:14:34with the cost of a room on its own.
0:14:34 > 0:14:36Breakfast is often much cheaper
0:14:36 > 0:14:39if you just buy it at a cafe round the corner.
0:14:41 > 0:14:45Signing up to hotels' online loyalty schemes is also a good idea.
0:14:45 > 0:14:47They're free to join and you'll be sent offers
0:14:47 > 0:14:50that aren't available to the general public.
0:14:54 > 0:14:57It's the first time I've been in a vineyard.
0:14:57 > 0:14:59They say there's a first time for everything, I suppose.
0:15:01 > 0:15:04It's spectacular.
0:15:04 > 0:15:07Bags unpacked, Stella and Lyn head straight out
0:15:07 > 0:15:10for a tour of a local winery.
0:15:11 > 0:15:15- Here, we have the Syrah. It's a red one.- It's a red wine.
0:15:15 > 0:15:18- It's a full-bodied wine?- Yes.
0:15:18 > 0:15:21- Are we allowed to go and taste some? - Yes.
0:15:21 > 0:15:23- I think it's time!- I do, too!
0:15:24 > 0:15:28- My shoes are getting dirty.- And you know the way to taste the wine.
0:15:28 > 0:15:30Lovely.
0:15:32 > 0:15:35- So, what's "Cheers"?- Yamas.
0:15:35 > 0:15:38- Yamas.- Yamas.- Yamas.
0:15:40 > 0:15:42Can we take a couple of crates with us?
0:15:42 > 0:15:45- I'm sure we can fit them in our cases.- Bottles or barrels?
0:15:45 > 0:15:49- Barrels!- Barrels! - THEY LAUGH
0:15:49 > 0:15:52I think we'd best leave them to it.
0:15:58 > 0:16:01The most popular type of holiday for Brits is the city break,
0:16:01 > 0:16:05with over half of us embarking on one every year -
0:16:05 > 0:16:09but getting to grips with an unfamiliar metropolis
0:16:09 > 0:16:12can be a daunting task.
0:16:12 > 0:16:16Guide books and online review sites can all be very useful
0:16:16 > 0:16:18but there's nothing like tapping into local knowledge
0:16:18 > 0:16:22to help you get the best out of a place.
0:16:22 > 0:16:24MUSIC: The Edge by David McCallum and David Axelrod
0:16:26 > 0:16:29With its picturesque canals, elegant bridges
0:16:29 > 0:16:33and breathtaking architecture, it's no wonder, every year,
0:16:33 > 0:16:3825 million visitors are drawn to the stunning city of Venice.
0:16:38 > 0:16:42However, it's also notorious for leaving people out of pocket,
0:16:42 > 0:16:44so we've asked Richard Madeley,
0:16:44 > 0:16:49a frequent visitor here for over 20 years, to share his survival tips.
0:16:49 > 0:16:53Just as it can entrance, it can overwhelm, with its heaving crowds
0:16:53 > 0:16:56and its bustling waterways and its hefty price tags.
0:16:56 > 0:17:00So, here's my guide to getting the best out of this magical place.
0:17:06 > 0:17:09When you're choosing a place to stay,
0:17:09 > 0:17:11it can be seriously difficult to find an address here.
0:17:11 > 0:17:15That's because almost none of the streets have names on them.
0:17:15 > 0:17:17Even the postmen get confused.
0:17:17 > 0:17:18So, it's a good idea to pick somewhere
0:17:18 > 0:17:21that's close to a notable landmark, and that way,
0:17:21 > 0:17:24you'll be reasonably sure of finding your way back home again.
0:17:24 > 0:17:27I do vividly remember the time I was here with Judy
0:17:27 > 0:17:28and I'd gone out by myself for a while
0:17:28 > 0:17:31and we were due to meet in a restaurant for lunch.
0:17:31 > 0:17:33Could I find it? Nope!
0:17:33 > 0:17:35She was furious.
0:17:36 > 0:17:39That's one of the many reasons why we always return
0:17:39 > 0:17:44to this particular hotel - and, thanks to its deceptive location,
0:17:44 > 0:17:47there is absolutely no chance you'll get lost if you stay here.
0:17:51 > 0:17:55See what I mean? St Mark's Square. Perfect.
0:17:55 > 0:17:58Any trip to Venice will inevitably involve a visit here,
0:17:58 > 0:18:01as it's home to the city's three most iconic attractions -
0:18:01 > 0:18:03the Doge's Palace...
0:18:03 > 0:18:05the Basilica of St Mark's
0:18:05 > 0:18:09and, of course, the bell tower, the San Marco Campanile.
0:18:11 > 0:18:13Locals call this place
0:18:13 > 0:18:16Triangolo delle Bermuda, the Bermuda Triangle,
0:18:16 > 0:18:19and that's because tourists come here in their masses
0:18:19 > 0:18:21but they never leave.
0:18:21 > 0:18:24That means that this is, by far, the busiest part of the city,
0:18:24 > 0:18:26so expect crowds.
0:18:26 > 0:18:30Now, instead of queuing around the block to visit the Doge's Palace,
0:18:30 > 0:18:33you can book what they call a "secret itinerary" tour
0:18:33 > 0:18:35before you get here.
0:18:35 > 0:18:37They'll take you anywhere you want to go inside -
0:18:37 > 0:18:41but, crucially, the guides leave at allocated times at fixed points
0:18:41 > 0:18:44and that means you just turn up and go. No waiting.
0:18:46 > 0:18:48The sheer number of people it attracts
0:18:48 > 0:18:51means that prices are sky-high.
0:18:51 > 0:18:54A regular plate of pasta in one of the many cafes
0:18:54 > 0:18:56that surround St Mark's Square is going to cost you,
0:18:56 > 0:18:59if you're lucky, 15 euros,
0:18:59 > 0:19:01if you're not lucky, 50 euros!
0:19:01 > 0:19:04Even a cup of coffee could be as much as 25 euros.
0:19:04 > 0:19:08So, instead, take a wander through the back streets.
0:19:08 > 0:19:11That's where you'll find both the true character of the city
0:19:11 > 0:19:13and the best prices.
0:19:13 > 0:19:16I'd recommend eating at one of the many cicchetti bars.
0:19:16 > 0:19:18Cicchetti's like Spanish tapas.
0:19:18 > 0:19:22It's the best-value, most authentic Venetian cuisine you'll find -
0:19:22 > 0:19:25and here's another tip. When it comes to coffee,
0:19:25 > 0:19:27don't sit at a table. Instead, do what the locals do
0:19:27 > 0:19:29and drink at the bar.
0:19:29 > 0:19:32That way, an espresso costs just a euro.
0:19:33 > 0:19:34- Grazie.- Prego.
0:19:34 > 0:19:38And, speaking of tips, 5% here is considered more than enough.
0:19:38 > 0:19:39It's perfectly ample -
0:19:39 > 0:19:42or you just round things up to the nearest five or ten euros,
0:19:42 > 0:19:46and if your bill - any bill - says "servizio incluso",
0:19:46 > 0:19:49nothing to worry about. It's all taken care of. Grazie.
0:19:51 > 0:19:55For dessert, gelato - artisan ice cream. But be careful.
0:19:55 > 0:19:59Some shops charge top whack for gelato that is far from authentic.
0:19:59 > 0:20:02So, how do you spot a fake?
0:20:02 > 0:20:05Well, if the ice cream comes to you piled really, really high,
0:20:05 > 0:20:08that is a dead giveaway. It means it's been whipped.
0:20:08 > 0:20:11True Italian ice cream has to be churned
0:20:11 > 0:20:14and that's what gives it its unique dense texture.
0:20:16 > 0:20:18Ah, thank you.
0:20:18 > 0:20:24Here, at La Boutique del Gelato, it's the real deal. It's delicious.
0:20:26 > 0:20:30Getting around Venice's main canals is cheapest by vaporetto,
0:20:30 > 0:20:34the water bus. A pass for two days costs 30 euros -
0:20:34 > 0:20:36but, of course, no trip here is complete
0:20:36 > 0:20:38without a ride on a gondola.
0:20:38 > 0:20:42The trouble is, prices reflect their popularity.
0:20:43 > 0:20:47The city of Venice sets the official hire rate for gondolas
0:20:47 > 0:20:49at 80 euros for 30 minutes,
0:20:49 > 0:20:52but not many people know that that same rate - 80 euros -
0:20:52 > 0:20:55covers six people in the same boat.
0:20:55 > 0:20:59So, if you don't mind sharing, you can spilt the cost six ways.
0:21:00 > 0:21:03Ahead of us is one of the most photographed sites
0:21:03 > 0:21:05in the whole of Venice - the Bridge of Sighs,
0:21:05 > 0:21:08so-called because it was the walkway
0:21:08 > 0:21:11that condemned men used to leave the city's courts.
0:21:11 > 0:21:13Nowadays, the only thing to sigh about
0:21:13 > 0:21:16is the amount of time it'll take you to queue up to get a look inside.
0:21:18 > 0:21:23Honestly, this angle is the only one you need to experience.
0:21:24 > 0:21:27Then, as evening draws in and you're looking for a nightcap,
0:21:27 > 0:21:29there's nothing I'd recommend more highly
0:21:29 > 0:21:33than a visit to my favourite watering hole - Harry's.
0:21:33 > 0:21:36And it was in this bar, nearly 70 years ago,
0:21:36 > 0:21:38that they actually invented the bellini.
0:21:38 > 0:21:40It's made up of peach juice and prosecco.
0:21:40 > 0:21:43- Thank you very much indeed, Marco. - Thank you, sir.
0:21:43 > 0:21:46And it's simple, it's elegant, it's understated,
0:21:46 > 0:21:50but it's ineffably classy. Just like this place.
0:21:50 > 0:21:53So, there you have it.
0:21:53 > 0:21:55With a few of these tricks up your sleeve,
0:21:55 > 0:21:56you'll be in a much better position
0:21:56 > 0:21:59to tackle this most intriguing of cities.
0:22:01 > 0:22:03And I promise you, if you come to Venice,
0:22:03 > 0:22:06you will never, ever forget the experience
0:22:06 > 0:22:09and, more than that, you'll want to come back.
0:22:10 > 0:22:13Wherever you're going, you're likely to use the internet
0:22:13 > 0:22:17to book your holiday - but the choice can be overwhelming.
0:22:17 > 0:22:20So, we've come to meet Lonely Planet editor in chief Tom Hall
0:22:20 > 0:22:23to help you work out which deals you can trust.
0:22:24 > 0:22:28It's easy to be tempted by a low price on an unfamiliar site
0:22:28 > 0:22:31but, actually, using British companies,
0:22:31 > 0:22:35where you can see ATOL and ABTA certificates on their site,
0:22:35 > 0:22:37that should give you a degree of confidence
0:22:37 > 0:22:39that you'll be protected in what you're doing.
0:22:39 > 0:22:42So, if a deal looks too good to be true
0:22:42 > 0:22:45from a site you've never heard of, it might be.
0:22:45 > 0:22:46Do approach them, do ask questions
0:22:46 > 0:22:48before you hand over your credit card details.
0:22:48 > 0:22:52- So, take your time and go to trusted sources.- Absolutely.
0:22:52 > 0:22:55How seriously do you take the star ratings on the reviews?
0:22:55 > 0:22:57Reviews are a fantastic tool
0:22:57 > 0:23:00that we just didn't have at our disposal 20 years ago -
0:23:00 > 0:23:04but it's worth taking an average temperature of a particular place.
0:23:04 > 0:23:07Can you give us some tips on how to budget a holiday?
0:23:07 > 0:23:10It's tempting to look at a cheap flight and say,
0:23:10 > 0:23:12"OK, that's the one we want.
0:23:12 > 0:23:15"It's going to save us £50 or £100 per head",
0:23:15 > 0:23:17but if you then have to spend a lot of money on a taxi
0:23:17 > 0:23:20or to get your car into a long-stay car park,
0:23:20 > 0:23:22then that has cancelled itself out,
0:23:22 > 0:23:24so think about the total cost of your journey,
0:23:24 > 0:23:28from the moment you close your front door to the moment you return,
0:23:28 > 0:23:30and that's where your budgeting should be going.
0:23:32 > 0:23:36And here are a few more top tips to keep the price of your flights down,
0:23:36 > 0:23:39courtesy of our travel industry experts.
0:23:44 > 0:23:45The best day to book a flight
0:23:45 > 0:23:49is Tuesday because weekend sales are usually assessed on the Monday
0:23:49 > 0:23:50and if a flight isn't selling,
0:23:50 > 0:23:53then you're most likely to bag a bargain on a Tuesday.
0:23:55 > 0:23:57Whenever you're booking a flight,
0:23:57 > 0:23:59make sure you clear the cookies from your computer first.
0:23:59 > 0:24:01Websites remember when you visit,
0:24:01 > 0:24:03what you search for, which flights you look at,
0:24:03 > 0:24:06and if you go repeatedly, they hoick the price up.
0:24:07 > 0:24:10Don't presume that a return flight with one airline
0:24:10 > 0:24:11is the cheapest option.
0:24:11 > 0:24:14Sometimes two single flights on two different carriers
0:24:14 > 0:24:17will work out more cost-effective.
0:24:19 > 0:24:22This is the best trip I've ever had.
0:24:22 > 0:24:24- Pretty cool, isn't it?- Yeah.
0:24:26 > 0:24:27In the past,
0:24:27 > 0:24:31the Berry family has always holidayed in all-inclusive hotels,
0:24:31 > 0:24:33but we've used their money to book them
0:24:33 > 0:24:36their first ever self-catering villa.
0:24:36 > 0:24:38So, how are they finding it?
0:24:38 > 0:24:39Want a bit more?
0:24:43 > 0:24:45Bit different to if you went all-inclusive, isn't it?
0:24:45 > 0:24:48At least you've got a nice choice to go to different beaches and things.
0:24:48 > 0:24:51- We don't normally leave the resort beach, do we?- No.
0:24:51 > 0:24:54- We can go on our own adventure. - OK, let's go. Come on, Jen.
0:24:54 > 0:24:57MUSIC: Passin' Me By by The Pharcyde
0:25:01 > 0:25:04# Who loves the sun...? #
0:25:04 > 0:25:08Their villa is out of town, so we had to hire them a car.
0:25:08 > 0:25:10It cost £139 for the week -
0:25:10 > 0:25:11but the cheaper accommodation
0:25:11 > 0:25:14meant that the cost was immediately offset.
0:25:14 > 0:25:18It also means that they have the freedom to explore.
0:25:20 > 0:25:23Always choose your rental company before you go.
0:25:23 > 0:25:26It's worth selecting one with a full-to-full fuel policy.
0:25:26 > 0:25:30- It is off the beaten track, isn't it? It's nice.- Yeah, I like that.
0:25:30 > 0:25:33That way the tank is full when you pick it up
0:25:33 > 0:25:37and you return it full, so you only pay for the petrol you use.
0:25:37 > 0:25:40It's weird how you get an island that's got such good weather
0:25:40 > 0:25:44and so chilled out and it's not built up or anything.
0:25:44 > 0:25:47- It's not too touristy, yeah.- Yeah.
0:25:49 > 0:25:52And don't bother hiring a satnav with your vehicle.
0:25:54 > 0:25:58Instead, there are loads of apps for your phone.
0:25:58 > 0:26:03These apps have pre-downloaded maps that use the GPS on your handset,
0:26:03 > 0:26:05so you can still use them
0:26:05 > 0:26:08even when you've switched off your data roaming.
0:26:09 > 0:26:11I should really start taking my own advice.
0:26:11 > 0:26:14MUSIC: 96 Tears by The Mysterians
0:26:18 > 0:26:20# Too many teardrops... #
0:26:20 > 0:26:23Self-catering means buying your own food and drink but do it right,
0:26:23 > 0:26:25and it makes real financial sense.
0:26:25 > 0:26:27Can I get some hummus, please?
0:26:27 > 0:26:29- Do we want some wine?- Yeah.
0:26:29 > 0:26:31Are we better off getting a box and then it'll last?
0:26:31 > 0:26:34By doing one big shop and making some meals at the villa,
0:26:34 > 0:26:38there's much more to spend when you do eat out.
0:26:38 > 0:26:41It's very different compared to an all-inclusive
0:26:41 > 0:26:44cos we've never really had to do our own food shopping,
0:26:44 > 0:26:46but I see the value in it, as well, because we're eating
0:26:46 > 0:26:49what we want to eat, rather than what is being given to us.
0:26:49 > 0:26:51An hour in a supermarket is worth it -
0:26:51 > 0:26:53so bring on the rest of the holiday.
0:26:57 > 0:27:01- Oh, the cat's drinking her milk! - Oh, no! Tch, tch!
0:27:02 > 0:27:04The view's so beautiful, isn't it?
0:27:04 > 0:27:08Matthew, your challenge is you've got to swim over there and back.
0:27:08 > 0:27:12- Ha, ha, you like it, don't you? - Do you like that water?
0:27:12 > 0:27:13Ooh!
0:27:13 > 0:27:16- Look at her!- Splishy-splashy.
0:27:16 > 0:27:20MUSIC: Tomorrow by William Onyeabor
0:27:22 > 0:27:24If relaxing on a beach is your thing,
0:27:24 > 0:27:27the Greek islands are pretty hard to beat.
0:27:27 > 0:27:29Whether you prefer long stretches of sand,
0:27:29 > 0:27:32impressive cliffs or secluded bays,
0:27:32 > 0:27:37this part of the world has some of the best coastline in Europe.
0:27:37 > 0:27:40Definitely had some R & R whilst we've been here this afternoon.
0:27:40 > 0:27:43Then, tonight, for dinner, we're going to go into Lefkada Town
0:27:43 > 0:27:46try and sample some of the local cuisine
0:27:46 > 0:27:49and, yeah, hopefully, it'll be great.
0:27:51 > 0:27:55But here's something you and they probably didn't realise
0:27:55 > 0:27:57about eating out abroad.
0:27:59 > 0:28:02On the Continent, some restaurants will charge you extra
0:28:02 > 0:28:06for seating outside, so check before you take your seat.
0:28:06 > 0:28:11And be careful, because some English menus can be more expensive.
0:28:11 > 0:28:15So, order from the local menu using a translation dictionary,
0:28:15 > 0:28:17so you're not charged over the odds.
0:28:20 > 0:28:22What?!
0:28:22 > 0:28:25MUSIC: For Your Love by The Yardbirds
0:28:31 > 0:28:33Lyn and Stella's tour through Greece has brought them
0:28:33 > 0:28:35to one of the country's treasures -
0:28:35 > 0:28:39the spectacular mountain-top monasteries of Meteora.
0:28:39 > 0:28:40Looks huge, doesn't it?
0:28:40 > 0:28:45For them, this is what holidaying is all about - sightseeing.
0:28:45 > 0:28:50# For your love. #
0:28:55 > 0:28:57So tranquil, so beautiful.
0:29:00 > 0:29:03- It's amazing.- It's like being on top of the world, isn't it?
0:29:03 > 0:29:05Think about the man hours.
0:29:05 > 0:29:07People must have devoted their lives to building them.
0:29:07 > 0:29:11In the past, Lyn and Stella would rely on organised tours
0:29:11 > 0:29:12to get to places like this,
0:29:12 > 0:29:15so they had little chance to plan trips on their own terms...
0:29:15 > 0:29:17Makes you wonder how they built them.
0:29:17 > 0:29:19..but here, with the money saved
0:29:19 > 0:29:21by booking travel and accommodation independently,
0:29:21 > 0:29:24we've been able to afford a driver and a private tour guide.
0:29:24 > 0:29:28In the 15th century, the monastery was abandoned by the monks.
0:29:30 > 0:29:34The monasteries stand 1,200 feet above the valley floor
0:29:34 > 0:29:39and, amazingly, 70 monks and nuns still live and worship here.
0:29:39 > 0:29:41Stunning, absolutely stunning.
0:29:44 > 0:29:47If I ever thought of coming to Greece,
0:29:47 > 0:29:50this is the number one spot that I would want to see. I've...
0:29:50 > 0:29:54I'm lost for words, basically. It's just so brilliant to be here.
0:29:54 > 0:29:56MUSIC: Bam Bam by Sister Nancy
0:29:56 > 0:29:59But their cross-country journey moves on.
0:29:59 > 0:30:03Travelling by minibus, Lyn and Stella head 200km south
0:30:03 > 0:30:05to the port of Arkitsa,
0:30:05 > 0:30:08where they catch a ferry to the island of Edipsos.
0:30:12 > 0:30:17- Message.- Ladies, I thought you deserved a little R & R.
0:30:17 > 0:30:20This is the Thermae Sylla Wellness Hotel.
0:30:20 > 0:30:23It was built in 1897 on hot springs
0:30:23 > 0:30:28and it's considered one of the best spa hotels in all of the world.
0:30:28 > 0:30:31Enjoy the pampering. It's well-deserved.
0:30:31 > 0:30:34MUSIC: Gangsta Gangsta by Ife Jie
0:30:48 > 0:30:50I wonder how much it costs to stay here, then -
0:30:50 > 0:30:53including, obviously, you get all this.
0:30:53 > 0:30:55Pfft... Don't know.
0:30:55 > 0:30:58- For me, probably more than I could afford.- Me too.
0:30:58 > 0:31:02- Well, we're affording it! We're doing it.- I know, I know!
0:31:02 > 0:31:05MUSIC: I Found A Reason by The Velvet Underground
0:31:05 > 0:31:08Once again, because the hotel isn't full,
0:31:08 > 0:31:10we were able to negotiate a deal.
0:31:10 > 0:31:14The advertised price of a twin is £102.25,
0:31:14 > 0:31:16but we got it for £86.60.
0:31:16 > 0:31:20We pushed our luck even further and asked what else they could do
0:31:20 > 0:31:24and the management threw in treatments worth £75 each for free.
0:31:34 > 0:31:37- Look at this. - ADE LAUGHS
0:31:37 > 0:31:41- Hi, Ade.- Thank you for sending us here to this beautiful place.
0:31:41 > 0:31:43As you can see, first treatment.
0:31:43 > 0:31:46- Just about to get the rest. Bye!- Bye!
0:31:46 > 0:31:48Love it!
0:31:52 > 0:31:55Though Brits have been coming to popular countries like Greece
0:31:55 > 0:32:00for decades, new destinations are opening up all the time.
0:32:00 > 0:32:02On this show, we want to give you the inside track
0:32:02 > 0:32:05on the up-and-coming options heading your way.
0:32:05 > 0:32:08Thanks to a major tourism push,
0:32:08 > 0:32:12the Middle Eastern country of Oman is quickly gaining popularity -
0:32:12 > 0:32:16but will what it has to offer suit you and your family?
0:32:16 > 0:32:19We sent Steph McGovern to find out.
0:32:21 > 0:32:23For most Brits, a holiday in this part of the world
0:32:23 > 0:32:27usually means a trip to the soaring skyscrapers of Dubai.
0:32:27 > 0:32:30Yet the country right next door is on the up,
0:32:30 > 0:32:35with BA and Oman Air now flying there direct 19 times a week -
0:32:35 > 0:32:39but can it really compete and win over UK tourists?
0:32:39 > 0:32:44Phew! Well, the first thing to tell you about Oman is it is hot.
0:32:44 > 0:32:47It can get up to 49 degrees in the summer.
0:32:47 > 0:32:50Now, the best months to come are between November and March.
0:32:51 > 0:32:54# My tambourine is still shaking... #
0:32:55 > 0:32:59This is the five-star Chedi Hotel in the capital Muscat.
0:32:59 > 0:33:02Top-end places like this will set you back
0:33:02 > 0:33:04an average of £240 a night -
0:33:04 > 0:33:08more budget hotels cost in the region of £85 -
0:33:08 > 0:33:11and with food and drink on the pricey side too,
0:33:11 > 0:33:14this isn't really a place to holiday on a shoestring.
0:33:16 > 0:33:20Oh, I could get used to this.
0:33:20 > 0:33:22Now, you can't get alcohol in the supermarkets here,
0:33:22 > 0:33:25but you can get it in pretty much all hotels
0:33:25 > 0:33:29and some clubs and restaurants, so, don't worry if you like a drink.
0:33:32 > 0:33:35I've never actually been to this part of the world before
0:33:35 > 0:33:37but what I'm expecting is something like Dubai, you know,
0:33:37 > 0:33:41swanky hotels like this, posh shops, skyscrapers.
0:33:41 > 0:33:43It's time to explore.
0:33:43 > 0:33:46MUSIC: Marcus Garvey by Burning Spear
0:33:48 > 0:33:50If you've got sand and surf in mind,
0:33:50 > 0:33:55Oman has over 3,000 kilometres of unspoilt beaches -
0:33:55 > 0:33:58but you need to be appropriately dressed,
0:33:58 > 0:34:02so, I'm afraid, no bikinis for the ladies or Speedos for the lads -
0:34:02 > 0:34:04but if you're in one of the big hotels,
0:34:04 > 0:34:07then often, they will have a private beach
0:34:07 > 0:34:09and you can wear whatever you like on them.
0:34:09 > 0:34:11And if shopping's your thing,
0:34:11 > 0:34:14well, Muscat's malls offer some serious retail therapy.
0:34:14 > 0:34:18Oman has lots of different places to offer you - like this centre,
0:34:18 > 0:34:21which gives you that mix of the brands you've never heard of
0:34:21 > 0:34:23with all the high-street favourites too.
0:34:23 > 0:34:25So far, so Dubai -
0:34:25 > 0:34:28but the longer I spend here, the more I realise
0:34:28 > 0:34:30there's one very obvious difference.
0:34:30 > 0:34:32There's some gorgeous architecture,
0:34:32 > 0:34:35but the buildings are a lot smaller than I thought they'd be.
0:34:35 > 0:34:38I assumed there'd be, like, huge skyscrapers.
0:34:38 > 0:34:42By law, all Omani buildings must be Islamic in style
0:34:42 > 0:34:44and, to protect views of the landscape,
0:34:44 > 0:34:47be no more than nine storeys in height.
0:34:49 > 0:34:52So, why the difference with the neighbours next door?
0:34:52 > 0:34:56I'm hoping Omani blogger Ali Mohammadi can explain.
0:34:56 > 0:35:00So, Ali, I was expecting Muscat to be more like Dubai,
0:35:00 > 0:35:03- but it isn't really, is it? - No, not at all.
0:35:03 > 0:35:07I mean, we, as Omanis, are very proud of our history and our culture
0:35:07 > 0:35:09and we don't want to lose this.
0:35:09 > 0:35:12It's something that we are happy to show to tourists,
0:35:12 > 0:35:14especially for someone visiting from Britain.
0:35:14 > 0:35:18If it's the middle of December and it's cold and miserable,
0:35:18 > 0:35:21come to Oman, you know? Very nice adventure destinations.
0:35:21 > 0:35:23We have beautiful beaches.
0:35:23 > 0:35:26This combination of our culture and history
0:35:26 > 0:35:28and natural wonders, I would like to call them,
0:35:28 > 0:35:31I think it's a very unique proposition for any visitor.
0:35:31 > 0:35:34MUSIC: Nissim by The Gaslamp Killer
0:35:36 > 0:35:38So, taking Ali's advice,
0:35:38 > 0:35:41it's time to experience the traditional side of Oman.
0:35:41 > 0:35:46First off, Muscat's most visited attraction - the Grand Mosque.
0:35:46 > 0:35:49This place is absolutely spectacular.
0:35:49 > 0:35:50The level of detail!
0:35:50 > 0:35:53This carpet is the second largest in the world
0:35:53 > 0:35:57and it took 600 women four years to make it.
0:36:00 > 0:36:03In search of the authentic Arabian experience,
0:36:03 > 0:36:09I'm heading 100 miles inland to the ancient city of Nizwa...
0:36:11 > 0:36:12Ali, get the engine on.
0:36:12 > 0:36:14- ENGINE STARTS - Thank you!
0:36:14 > 0:36:17MUSIC: Galvanize by The Chemical Brothers
0:36:19 > 0:36:23..and what better way to see this beautiful country
0:36:23 > 0:36:25than by hiring your own four-by-four?
0:36:33 > 0:36:36This is Nizwa's famous cattle market.
0:36:36 > 0:36:39Here, you can experience first-hand
0:36:39 > 0:36:43the way locals have bought and sold livestock for centuries.
0:36:43 > 0:36:46Look at this guy here trying to sell this little goat.
0:36:46 > 0:36:50They're obviously taking them round this ring to show the goats off.
0:36:52 > 0:36:56Everywhere you go, Omani heritage is really on show here -
0:36:56 > 0:37:00like this 400-year-old house, now a living museum...
0:37:00 > 0:37:02It's massive, this place.
0:37:02 > 0:37:04..and here, nuts and seeds are being used
0:37:04 > 0:37:06to make traditional remedies.
0:37:06 > 0:37:08This lady here is pushing them together
0:37:08 > 0:37:11to get the oil out and make a skin product.
0:37:11 > 0:37:13Oh, can I try?
0:37:14 > 0:37:15Shukran.
0:37:20 > 0:37:22GOAT BLEATS
0:37:26 > 0:37:29For my final stop, we climb high into the mountains
0:37:29 > 0:37:34to visit Wadi Ghul, also known as Oman's Grand Canyon.
0:37:37 > 0:37:40Wow! This view is incredible!
0:37:47 > 0:37:50Just to give you a sense of how vast this area is,
0:37:50 > 0:37:54I can see hikers down there, tiny little dots.
0:37:54 > 0:37:55This is hikers' paradise.
0:38:00 > 0:38:04I think it's fair to say, if you want to do Oman on a tight budget,
0:38:04 > 0:38:06you might struggle, because the food's expensive,
0:38:06 > 0:38:08as is the accommodation.
0:38:08 > 0:38:10Now, there are good beaches and good shops,
0:38:10 > 0:38:14but there are lots of alternative cheaper countries
0:38:14 > 0:38:15where you can get that.
0:38:15 > 0:38:19But in terms of history and culture, this place is hard to beat.
0:38:19 > 0:38:21It's unlike anywhere I've ever been
0:38:21 > 0:38:23and, as a woman traveller, I felt completely safe,
0:38:23 > 0:38:26which is something I didn't necessarily expect.
0:38:26 > 0:38:30The great thing about Oman is this, the natural beauty -
0:38:30 > 0:38:33but the highlight for me, I think, has been the fact
0:38:33 > 0:38:36that I felt really welcomed and I've really been able
0:38:36 > 0:38:40to immerse myself in the tradition here and that is a real attraction.
0:38:50 > 0:38:53If you're about to embark on a trip abroad,
0:38:53 > 0:38:57here's some expert advice to bear in mind before you leave.
0:39:01 > 0:39:05When you're packing, put a "Fragile" sticker on your hold luggage.
0:39:05 > 0:39:07That way it goes to the top of the pile in the plane
0:39:07 > 0:39:09and it's likely to come out first on the baggage carousel
0:39:09 > 0:39:11when you reach your destination.
0:39:15 > 0:39:18You generally get a better exchange rate online than you do in stores.
0:39:18 > 0:39:21Order your currency, then have it delivered to your home
0:39:21 > 0:39:23or pick up from an airport location.
0:39:24 > 0:39:27If you've got a choice of queue at airport security,
0:39:27 > 0:39:30you may find that going left is quicker,
0:39:30 > 0:39:33because most people are right-handed and may naturally go to the right.
0:39:37 > 0:39:41Liquids are banned through airport security, but food isn't.
0:39:41 > 0:39:43So, if you're flying with a budget airline, take a picnic with you,
0:39:43 > 0:39:45rather than paying for overpriced snacks on board.
0:39:45 > 0:39:49MUSIC: Body And Soul by William Onyeabor
0:40:01 > 0:40:04Lyn and Stella's tour across Greece has come to an end -
0:40:04 > 0:40:06fittingly, in Athens.
0:40:08 > 0:40:11What better place for our history-loving ladies
0:40:11 > 0:40:15to complete their journey than the most famous landmark of them all?
0:40:17 > 0:40:20I didn't realise it was as big as that!
0:40:20 > 0:40:24The Acropolis is over 25 centuries old.
0:40:25 > 0:40:28The knobbly ends remind me of Lego.
0:40:28 > 0:40:30Oh, yeah, yeah.
0:40:31 > 0:40:33Oh, wow!
0:40:34 > 0:40:37That's brilliant! I'm impressed!
0:40:37 > 0:40:41It has survived bombings, fire and earthquakes,
0:40:41 > 0:40:44yet remains the most complete monumental complex
0:40:44 > 0:40:46from ancient Greece...
0:40:46 > 0:40:48Right, I've had the man, now let's find the horse.
0:40:48 > 0:40:50I wonder why he's so intact.
0:40:52 > 0:40:55..but look who's just round the corner.
0:40:55 > 0:40:56This is the first time I've been here
0:40:56 > 0:41:01since the Olympics in 2004 and I'm going to surprise Lyn and Stella.
0:41:01 > 0:41:04They don't know I'm here. I'm looking forward to this!
0:41:05 > 0:41:07Let's go that way.
0:41:12 > 0:41:15- Fancy seeing you two here!- Aah! - Lyn and Stella!
0:41:15 > 0:41:18- THEY LAUGH - Fancy seeing you two!- Hello!
0:41:18 > 0:41:19What do you think we're doing here?
0:41:19 > 0:41:23- Mwah! Have you missed me? - Always!- Not really.
0:41:23 > 0:41:26Trouble, isn't she? Cheeky!
0:41:27 > 0:41:32- So, what's it been like?- Fabulous! - Yes?- Experience.- Yes?- Yes.
0:41:32 > 0:41:35I tell you what, let's talk about it a bit more over some coffee.
0:41:35 > 0:41:39- Yeah?- No worries.- Good idea. - You buying?- Yeah.- Alcoholic.
0:41:40 > 0:41:44- This is amazing, isn't it?- Ain't it just?!- So, you've seen more than me.
0:41:44 > 0:41:46Yeah, but you've missed so much!
0:41:46 > 0:41:49You're going to tell me all about it, aren't you?
0:41:52 > 0:41:56So, has this new style of holiday been value for money,
0:41:56 > 0:41:59and is it enough to make independent travellers out of Lyn and Stella?
0:42:01 > 0:42:06- You guys gave me a budget of £1,800. - Mm-hm.- Yeah.
0:42:06 > 0:42:08Do you reckon I came in on budget?
0:42:10 > 0:42:13- He better have! - THEY LAUGH
0:42:13 > 0:42:18- Just. I don't know.- I'm sceptical.
0:42:18 > 0:42:20After seven days away, and all that you've done -
0:42:20 > 0:42:24travelling round the country, five-star hotels, tour guides -
0:42:24 > 0:42:29you're both going to be going home with £62.17 each.
0:42:29 > 0:42:33THEY LAUGH
0:42:33 > 0:42:35Round of applause for Ade.
0:42:38 > 0:42:41You've put us in a better place for our budget.
0:42:41 > 0:42:42And we've still got change.
0:42:42 > 0:42:45You've still got change in your back pocket.
0:42:45 > 0:42:47So, are you going to give us details of how you did it?
0:42:47 > 0:42:50- No, absolutely not! It's my secret!- You are.
0:42:50 > 0:42:52- Come on.- All right.
0:42:52 > 0:42:55So, once you start saving money on different bits,
0:42:55 > 0:42:58then you can afford to spend a bit more money on other bits.
0:42:58 > 0:43:02- Like the spa.- How much do you think the spa came in at?
0:43:02 > 0:43:06- My guess was about £150 each. - At least.
0:43:07 > 0:43:09- £86.- Each?
0:43:09 > 0:43:14No, no, for both of you. All the facilities, the room and everything.
0:43:14 > 0:43:17We thought that was way beyond our budget, and it's really not.
0:43:17 > 0:43:21Would this change how you approach holidays in the future?
0:43:21 > 0:43:23- Definitely.- Yeah, it's given us, definitely, more options.
0:43:23 > 0:43:25We're doing it. We're going to do it, definitely.
0:43:25 > 0:43:28It gave us options, which we didn't have before.
0:43:28 > 0:43:30And would you do this sort of holiday again then?
0:43:30 > 0:43:32We were already thinking we'd give it a go, but now we know,
0:43:32 > 0:43:35- actually you really DO get more for your money...- Yeah.
0:43:35 > 0:43:36..it's the way to go.
0:43:36 > 0:43:38Yeah - I think high fives are there.
0:43:38 > 0:43:40- Come on, come on, give me some of that.- Oh, definitely, darling.
0:43:40 > 0:43:41Give me some of that!
0:43:47 > 0:43:51For a final day treat, the Berrys are throwing caution to the wind
0:43:51 > 0:43:54and splashing out...
0:43:58 > 0:44:00# It's another year for me and you
0:44:00 > 0:44:03# Another year with nothing to do... #
0:44:04 > 0:44:07..by hiring a speedboat for the day...
0:44:14 > 0:44:19MUSIC: Foxy Lady by The Jimi Hendrix Experience
0:44:19 > 0:44:22..but, back on dry land, I'm waiting for them
0:44:22 > 0:44:24and have a bit of a surprise in store.
0:44:24 > 0:44:25Hello!
0:44:27 > 0:44:32- You gave me a budget of £2,500. - Yeah.
0:44:32 > 0:44:35Compared to your normal holiday of all-inclusive,
0:44:35 > 0:44:37do you think that you did more
0:44:37 > 0:44:40- than you would normally do for that budget?- Yeah.
0:44:40 > 0:44:44Yeah. We've done excursions. We've not had a day that's been the same.
0:44:44 > 0:44:47Yeah, it's been really enjoyable, so yeah, I think it was worth it.
0:44:47 > 0:44:51- You think that's what you spent, roughly?- Yeah.- Yeah?
0:44:51 > 0:44:53We were just expecting you to spend
0:44:53 > 0:44:57the whole lot and, you know, we were quite happy for you to do that.
0:44:59 > 0:45:01You actually spent...
0:45:04 > 0:45:09..£1,905.70.
0:45:09 > 0:45:12- Oh, my God!- Wow!- Whoa! What?
0:45:12 > 0:45:15So, I believe that belongs to you.
0:45:15 > 0:45:18- Thank you very much!- Thank you! - Excellent!
0:45:18 > 0:45:20Is it nice to be going home
0:45:20 > 0:45:22with nearly £600 in your pocket?
0:45:22 > 0:45:25Yes, that's just a massive added bonus.
0:45:25 > 0:45:26- How do you feel?- Rich!
0:45:26 > 0:45:29THEY LAUGH
0:45:29 > 0:45:33Have you ever gone home with extra money in your pocket?
0:45:33 > 0:45:35No, we normally go into the credit card.
0:45:35 > 0:45:38- Never mind going home with money. - No, we don't go home with money.
0:45:38 > 0:45:42- So, what's that going to go on? - Another holiday!
0:45:42 > 0:45:46- Yeah, let's book another holiday. - But Cherry's planning it.
0:45:46 > 0:45:49- Cherry's planning it. - I'll plan it, I'll plan it.
0:45:49 > 0:45:53Thank you, Cherry. It's really amazing. It's really good.
0:45:53 > 0:45:56No, pleasure. I'm so glad you had a lovely time.
0:45:57 > 0:46:02# I wish that I knew what I know now... #
0:46:02 > 0:46:05So, there you have it - happy holidays all round.
0:46:05 > 0:46:09All that's left is to celebrate - Greek-style, of course!
0:46:11 > 0:46:13I think we've learnt how to stop being lazy
0:46:13 > 0:46:15and research our own holidays a bit.
0:46:15 > 0:46:17- It's opened our eyes a lot, hasn't it?- It's been lovely.
0:46:17 > 0:46:19We've had a laugh and a great holiday.
0:46:19 > 0:46:23And now we know how to do it, we can go away and do it for years to come.
0:46:23 > 0:46:27BAND PLAYS TRADITIONAL GREEK MUSIC AND PEOPLE CLAP ALONG
0:46:27 > 0:46:29PLATE SMASHES
0:46:38 > 0:46:41# Ceux qui me cassent la figure
0:46:41 > 0:46:44# Ceux qui me marchent sur les pieds
0:46:44 > 0:46:46# Ceux qui me cognent en voiture
0:46:46 > 0:46:49# Ceux qui me cognent sur le nez
0:46:49 > 0:46:52# Papa, Maman, toute la famille
0:46:52 > 0:46:54# L'Eglise, l'armee et la patrie
0:46:54 > 0:46:58# Je les aime, je les aime Je les aime... #