Going skiing or snowboarding for the first time can conjure up a mix of emotions – excitement, but at the same time apprehension about the prospect of stepping onto the white stuff in a pair of skis/on a snowboard for the first time. That’s completely normal. The trick to getting the most out of your holiday is in the preparation. There are some really handy videos out there to help you get an idea of what to expect, including this fab one on how to survive the chairlift – a daunting prospect for many first timers! Team GP know first-hand what’s required to ensure your trip is everything you want it to be. We also know that forgetting to bring something can cost you dearly, having learned the hard way! We’ve done the dry run so that you, or the newbie skier in your group, will have no problem adapting to life on the slopes... Get your equipment in order There are lots of websites offering skiing equipment checklists. But we wanted to bring you some really nif...

There’s nothing like booking a weekend staycation to cure the January Blues. Whatever you’re looking for, we’ve got just the answer…from the wrap-up-warm outdoor adventurist to the massage-loving spa breakers, there’s something to suit every budget here… Spa lovers For many people, January is about purging the body of Christmas excesses and returning to a healthier lifestyle. A spa stay is a great way of kick-starting that process – or, if you book it for later in the year, it can act as a reward for the hard work and discipline it takes to live healthier. On a budget: Mallory Court Country House Hotel and Spa, Leamington Spa With prices from £79.50 per person, Mallory Court offers a luxurious experience without breaking the bank. Booking through Great Little Breaks gets you an evening meal in the two AA Rosette awarded The Brasserie restaurant, breakfast and access to the spa plus 20% off treatments. Blow the budget : Lucknam Park, Bath If you’ve co...

The term ‘city break’ is synonymous with classic destinations like Paris, Rome, Barcelona and Venice. And these places are popular for good reason – we’ve even written an article that showcases many of these fantastic cities. But perhaps you’ve explored them already or are looking for an alternative destination… then why not make 2019 the year you go off the beaten track? You can get some real bargains in January and if you choose to travel off-peak, then the majority of destinations will be a lot quieter too. Here’s some top-drawer ideas to fire your imagination in 2019… 1. Ljubljana, Slovenia The capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana has been transformed over the last 10-15 years into one of Europe’s greenest cities, making us like it even more! The core of the city is now almost entirely pedestrian, so you can stroll carefree through the pretty medieval streets, enjoying the wide range of culture and cuisine that Ljubljana has to offer.     GP’s top t...