Cover charge
A new range of specially-reduced travel-insurance prices for single-parent families has been launched by Club Direct. A family of one adult and unlimited children can have full insurance cover for a two-week holiday in Europe for £27.90, more than £20 cheaper than the equivalent for a two-parent family. Details on 0800 074 4556.
Cheap 'n' cheerful
The latest edition of Cheap Sleeps Europe by Katie Wood is now available, featuring more than 10,000 suggestions in 31 European countries. The guide includes campsites, student halls, B&Bs, with advice on sleeping rough. (Robson Books, £10.99.)
Don't even go there The latest list of countries to avoid has been published by the Foreign & Commonwealth Office. Among those they advise against travelling to are: Afghanistan, Burundi, Comoros (Anjouan and Moheli), Democratic Republic of the Congo (not Kinshasa), Republic of the Congo (not Brazzaville and Pointe Noire), Ecuador (Napo, Sucumbios and Cordillera del Condor), Eritrea, India (Jammu and Kashmir only), Indonesia (Maluku Province), Iraq, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka (north and east only). For full details, contact the Travel Advice Unit (020-7238 4503/4)
Lunch time
On Bastille Day (July 14), up to 3 million people in France are expected to gather to picnic on the Paris Meridian Line that runs for 620 miles through 337 towns and villages from Dunkirk to Prats de Mollo. In Paris, the "Incredible Picnic" sites include the courtyard of the Louvre and Montmartre.
Heritage trail
The Historic Houses Association has produced a map detailing 350 houses and gardens in Britain open to the public. It is on sale, for £4.95, at most historic house locations, and also lists 44 Heritage hotels.
Recruitment drive
Global Vision International (01582 831300), which carries out marine conservation and community development overseas, is looking to recruit volunteers to take part in five- and 10-week expeditions in August and October on the Caribbean island of Roatan, Honduras. Contributions of £1,500-£2,600 are required.
Outdoor pursuits
The National Adventure Sports Show and Exhibition takes place at the Bath and West Showground, Somerset July 21-23. Details on 0906 5531221.
