Holidays 2018: Where is best to go in August? Last minute deals to Turkey and Menorca

Where is best to go on holiday in August? Reigo Eljas, Country Director for lastminute.com, advises travellers to try Bournemouth, Menorca, and Turkey for a trip and great last minute deal.

Bournemouth

The coastal charms of Bournemouth enjoy an average of seven hours of sunshine in the summer – but in 2018 expect the numbers, and the temperature, to be even higher. Bournemouth is buzzing now, the beaches and pier have been revamped while still retaining its Victorian roots, and there are plenty of attractions for 21st Century holidaymakers to enjoy.

Add vast stretches of golden sand (nearly a seven miles of beach) and a cracking nightlife and it means you’ve got everything you need for a dynamite time down in Dorset.

What to see and do

The Jurassic Coast is an UNESCO World Heritage Site, so you’re walking or biking among 185 million years of history.

Jump on the train for a quick ride to Hengistbury Head or visit the Isle of Purbeck and the idyllic village of Studland. It has got a National Trust beach, nature reserve and views of the white chalked Old Harry Rocks, and we should probably mention it’s home to one of Britain’s most popular naturist beaches.

Bournemouth’s beautiful Grade II listed Victorian Gardens run three kilometres from the pier to Poole and the award-winning Lower Gardens has live events throughout the year.

If you want a change of pace from swimming and sunbathing – try the world’s first pier-to-shore zip wire (PierZip). You’ll fly for about half a minute up to 80 feet above the sea.

You’ll find  independent shops in Southbourne and the beach there has Blue Flag status. Westbourne is good for fashion boutiques, art galleries and cafes. Bournemouth’s next door neighbour, Poole, has a great quayside, with bars, restaurants and shops including the award-winning ceramics at Poole Pottery.

What to eat

Fish and chips taste all the better when you eat them by the seaside – and there are plenty of places to tuck in. There are a couple of restaurants on the pier to try, like the Key West Bar and Restaurant, which overlooks the sea and has fantastic views of the beach whereas some people swear by Chez Fred in Westbourne – you can get your fish and chips to takeaway if you want something more informal.

It’s not a beach break without an ice cream. You can grab a cone on the seafront or treat yourself at an ice cream parlour – Giggi Gelateria has some Italian ice cream, made onsite, to enjoy in the sunshine.

There are some great pubs and bars for a refreshing drink. Urban Reef on Boscombe promenade has a sun terrace and balcony while the centrally located The Goat and Tricycle has hand-pulled cask ales. If you visit Studland for a stroll, visit the Bankes Arms for a pint, and enjoy the view, in their pub garden.

Bournemouth deals

3* – The Cottonwood boutique hotel, 1 night from £69 per night

3* Carrington house hotel, 1 night from £39 per night

4* Best Western hotel Royale – Oceana collection, 1 night from £69 per night

Menorca

Majorca’s less noisy neighbour’s name actually means “smaller island”. But it most certainly punches above its weight when it comes to sensational beaches, beautiful scenery and that oh so welcoming blue water.

While Ibiza’s summer club season is in full swing and Love Island has all eyes on Majorca, now’s the time to sneak off to Menorca and enjoy the heatwave in a little more peace and quiet. Here’s why you should have Menorca in your sights for the summer.

What to see and do

This is one beautiful island, and UNESCO recognised Menorca as a natural biosphere reserve – so it’s begging to be explored. And the landscape is perfect for getting out and about, whether that’s on foot, by bike or horse riding. The best way to do this is by travelling along the Cami de Cavalls (Path of Horses). The whole way is a 185 mile coastal path around the island, but it has 20 stages so you can dip in and out of it – while enjoying the exceptional views.

You could just hang out at in Mahon – which has one of the largest natural harbours in the world. It’s going to be hot – so cool down in the water. This island is famed for its water sports – so hire a kayak or paddle board or even a boat for the day and get out on the sea.

Of course a holiday should have plenty of lazing about on the beach. Depending on where you’re staying there are plenty of options – in the south Cala Macaralleta, Cala Macarella​, Cala Mitjana and Cala en Turqueta while in the north head to Playa de Cavalleria, ​Cala Pilar or Cala Pregonda.

What to eat

One fabulous food fact is that according to legend, mayonnaise (mahonesa) was invented on the island by a French chef to celebrate winning the siege of Port Mahon in 1756.

While there may be some argument to this, there is no disputing that you’ll find some fantastic fresh seafood here. Caldereta de langosta – lobster cooked in a rich stock to make a sumptuous stew, is a great place to start.

Make sure you try the local Mahon cheese, this delicacy is made on the island – and you’ll be probably packing some in your case to bring home. If you fancy something sweet try Menorcan crespells or carquinyols – traditional biscuits.

While its very hot, go easy on the Pomada, gin (a legacy from the British days) with lemonade. Like Pimms, its deceptively strong. The local wine is also getting better and better each year.

Menorca deals

3* Ilunion Menorca, flights & 4 nights, Bed & Breakfast. Departing from London on 9th August. From £509pp

4* Sol Beach House Menorca, flights & 5 nights, Bed & Breakfast. Departing from London on 30th August From £509pp

4* Occidental Menorca, flights & 4 nights, Half Board. Departing from London on 28th August. From £459pp

4* Zafiro Menorca, flights & 5 nights, Room Only. Departing from London on 30th August. From £509pp

Antalya – Turkey

The southern resort of Antalya is made for holidaymakers, and there are some superb bargains to be had – particularly if you plump for one of the fabulous all-inclusive hotels and resorts. They’re a huge draw, but try and go for one with a water park, especially if you’re taking the family. And it’s going to be super hot in August, with temperatures well into the thirties. But if you tire of the hotel, there’s some great spots to go and explore the more authentic side of Turkey.

What to see and do

There’s loads of all-inclusive resorts lining the beaches to choose from and you’re really not going to get bored. Because once you’ve had a dip in the sea and hung out on the beach there are pools, water parks, kids clubs (if you’ve got children), bowling alleys, ping-pong and all types of sports – as well as entertainment and excellent restaurants. There’s also plenty of golf courses. Key areas are Lara Beach and Belek which have the mega hotels and 5* resorts.

If you’re venturing out to Antayla you’ll find an old port city waiting to be wandered. Kaleiçi (the old town) dates back to Roman times and some interesting archaeological sites such as Hadrian’s Gate. There are some nice beaches there, decent shopping area and some authentic Turkish restaurants.

Take a day trip to see the Temple of Apollo at Side, the Roman ruins have great views over the Mediterranean Sea. The Manavgat Waterfalls are worth a visit, and you can cruise or even kayak or canoe there. It’s very pretty, and Manavgat is a nice little tourist town in itself too. Take a gulet (a traditional boat) cruise along the coast. You’ll see the Taurus Mountains and caves as you sail through the crystal-clear waters.

What to eat

It’s more than likely you’ll be going all-inclusive here – so expect a variety of different cuisines to try on site – including traditional Turkish food. And of course if you’re out and about here’s some of the best things to try.

Nothing sets you up for a day at the beach or sightseeing than a traditional Turkish breakfast. Think cheese, eggs, olives, salad, pastries, honey and hot (and strong) Turkish tea.

You’ve got great choice of surf and turf here – you’ve probably had a wide range of kebabs, but these are on another level to a late-night high street snack.

Seafood wise, try sea bass (levrek) – they cook it in many different ways. For pudding, sütlaç is like a kind of rice pudding and the famous baklava is a sticky, gooey treat to end a meal on. Of course you have to try the traditional local liquor, and in Turkey its raki (lion’s milk). Aniseed in taste, once mixed with a little water, it turns a cloudy, milky colour.

Antalya deals

Side, Antalya: 5* The Raga Side (brand new hotel in 2018). Flights and 7 nights, Ultra All Inclusive. Return flights from London Stansted. Departing 30th August. From £679pp

Side, Antalya: 5* Seher Sun Palace. Flights and 7 nights, All Inclusive. Return flights from London. Departing 15th August. From £729pp

Lara Beach, Antalya: 5* Barut Lara (had occupied number 1 spot on Trip Advisor for many years). Flights and 7 nights, All Inclusive. Return flights from London. Departing 29th August. From £1049pp

Belek, Antalya: 5* Crystal Waterworld Resort & Spa. Flights and 7 nights, All Inclusive. Return flights from London. Departing 29th August. From £749pp

Kemer, Antalya: 5* Armas Labada. Flights and 7 nights, Ultra All Inclusive. Return flights from London. Departing 15th August. From £799pp