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According to a recent news report from China Daily, IPK International, a world travel research monitor that assesses trends in outbound travel demand, points out that Chinese outbound travel is set to enjoy a four per cent increase this year in tourism.

Rolf Freitag, the CEO of IPK International told Xinhua on Wednesday: "China is very dynamic and is finding its place in the world. This year's economic recovery will start from the East and then influence the West."

The latest report from Reuters also indicates that TUI Travel, Europe's largest tour operator, announces a considerable revival in tourism since the economic recession last year, with more winter holiday bookings than a year ago. As mentioned in The Guardian, Thomas Cook also reported a 4.9 per cent rise in their shares, with a 30 per cent increase in their UK summer holiday bookings, while over 90 per cent of their winter holiday packages were already sold.

Most people have a limited time for planning their next holiday trip and, budget aside, it is not easy to choose from the numerous travel destinations and holiday packages available. Other than looking at the travel guidebooks and the obvious, the below are a few interesting travel-related websites and online resources which are useful for holidaymakers:

• Gridskipper (www.gridskipper.com): a refreshing blog for those who are looking for a city break in one of the major cities in Europe and the US.
• Mr and Mrs Smith (www.mrandmrssmith.com): this website offers free booking service to those who are looking for a luxury stay at one of the world's best boutique hotels.
• Laterooms (www.laterooms.com): this may be familiar to some, and offers an efficient search engine for holiday stay discounts and booking service to last-minute travelers on a budget.
• A Luxury Travel Blog (www.aluxurytravelblog.com): this site gives quite useful advice and exotic recommendations for the luxury-minded.
• Home exchange (www.homeexchangetravel.blogs.com): this provides a platform for home exchange for those who are more adventurous and wish to escape expensive hotel stays so that they can spend more on sightseeing and excursions.
• What's On When (www.whatsonwhen.com): this website offers a comprehensive listing of world events, attractions and activities so that travelers can better plan their holidays to synchronise with major festivals and events happening around the world.
• MeNoGo (www.menogo.com): the website offers a platform for travelers to share and exchange travel experiences, including comments, complaints and travel suggestions. There is a lot of sharing on insider information such as how to avoid excessive charges, problems or unpleasant experiences with specific air carriers, hotels and restaurants. This may be especially useful for travelers going to exotic or unfamiliar travel destinations.
• Conde Nast (www.concierge.com/cntraveler/listspolls ): this is a rather handy resource to check out the hottest destinations, hip hotels and resort experiences. Another section of the same site, Travel Tips (www.concierge.com/cntraveler/traveltips), also features great information on how to maximise your travel budget, avoid unwanted journey hassles, and contain advice on car rentals, personal safety and travel technology, and so is especially informative when planning long-haul DIY holidays. Their It List featured under the Interests and Ideas section (http://www.concierge.com/ideas) is also useful for coming up with holiday ideas that best match your interests and lifestyle.

Regardless of the travel destinations, booking a valid travel protection policy before the trip is essential in minimising potential travel risks involved. For just £3.81 single trip or £24.50 multi-trip option throughout the year, our travel insurance offers the following coverage:

• Emergency medical expenses of up to £10 million
• 24/7 emergency helpline provided
• Children under age 18 travel free

The policy protects you against all potential risks of travel disruptions and rescheduling, luggage loss or theft, and emergencies. Medical expenses of up to £10 million in claims are also provided of in case of personal injuries.

Moreover, the policy offers up to £2,000 claims in the event of any unforeseen emergencies that necessitate additional accommodation booking. This can be especially helpful when going on long-haul trips or exploring exotic travel destinations.

Those travelling as a family also enjoy the benefits of getting the travel insurance cover for your children at no extra cost.

As is the case with most insurance policies, exclusions and limitations apply. Please refer to the full terms and conditions to understand what is and what is not covered under the policy.