Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
offered by the
Landmark Trust
( 01628-825925;
www.landmarktrust.co.uk
) , an architectural charity that rescues
unique old buildings and supports the work by renting them out.
Hostels in Wales are generally basic affairs with bunk beds in dormitories. However, they're often spectacularly loc-
ated, very handy for long-distance walkers and can be a great place to meet fellow travellers.
Free camping is rarely possible in Wales but there are plenty of campgrounds around the country, concentrated in the
national parks and along the coast. Most campgrounds have reasonable facilities, though quality can vary widely and
some can be tricky to reach without your own transport. Price structures vary widely but will often include a per-person
charge, an additional charge for a vehicle or a powered site, and sometimes a minimum site charge at busy times regard-
less of how many people are staying.
PRACTICALITIES
»
Weights & Measures
Wales uses the metric system for weights and measures. However, speed and distance
are measured in miles, and pubs still pull pints.
»
DVD
Wales uses the PAL system.
»
Newspapers
The popular
Western Mail
is Wales' only national English-language daily newspaper.
»
Magazines
For the low-down on what's happening around the country, try the magazines
Cambria, Planet
or
Golwg
(Vision), the latter only available in Welsh.
»
Radio
Tune in to BBC Radio Wales (103.9FM) for English-language news and features, or BBC Radio Cymru
(a range of frequencies between 103.5FM and 105FM) for the Welsh-language version.
»
TV
The national Welsh-language television broadcaster is 4C (Sianel Pedwar Cymru).
Prices & Booking
Wales is a popular 'weekender' destination for people throughout Britain. Consequently prices shoot up and availability
plummets on Friday and Saturday nights, regardless of the season, especially in popular beauty spots such as Pembroke-
shire and Snowdonia. In business-orientated establishments in Cardiff, prices sometimes drop over the weekend, de-
pending on what's on in the city. If there's a big rugby game scheduled, you won't get a room in the city or its surrounds
for love or money.
It's essential to book ahead for Easter and Christmas. Otherwise, the high season runs from mid-May to mid-Septem-
ber, with the absolute peak (especially in seaside towns) between July and August. Prices are generally cheaper for
longer stays and advance bookings.
Outside the high season, room rates are often reduced and special offers may be available - it's always worth enquir-
ing. Some establishments, especially hostels and camping grounds, shut up shop completely from November until
Easter.
Most tourist offices will book accommodation for you for a small fee. Almost all B&Bs charge £60 to £100 for a
double room; in many places it's hard to find anything cheaper or more expensive.
