Vacation Rentals in Wales

Surrounded by sea on three sides, Wales' border with England (to the east) still runs roughly along Offa's Dyke, the giant earthwork constructed in the 8th century. Wales is a country of great geographical variation with many long stretches of attractive and often rugged coastline. South Wales is mainly known for its industrial heritage but the western part of the coast between Carmarthen Bay and St David’s is similar to that of the more pastoral west country of England, and backed by some equally beautiful countryside. The scenery of mid-Wales includes rich farming valleys, the broad sandy sweep of Cardigan Bay and rolling hill country. North Wales is one of the most popular tourist areas in the British Isles, with many lively coastal resorts. Inland, the region of Snowdonia has long been popular with walkers and climbers. Much of the central inland area of the country is mountainous, with some breathtaking scenery.

Climate in Wales

Wales tends to be wetter than England, with water falling from the sky all year round. Westerly and south-westerly winds can also make life pretty miserable. The coastal areas can get very warm in summer, but because of the closeness of the mountains to conditions in upland areas can be changeable within short distances at all times of the year. Temperatures in Cardiff get up to 20°C (68°F) at the height of summer (August), but rarely drop below freezing even in the depths of winter (January).

Best Time to Travel to Wales

Spring and autumn are probably the best times to visit Wales if you want to avoid the July and August crowds. It's even less busy in winter, but many attractions close in mid-October and don't reopen until Easter.

Events in Wales

The patron saint of Wales is celebrated on St David’s Day (March 1). Although it is not a public holiday, schoolchildren celebrate and learn about their culture through music, poetry and cookery on this day. Many Welsh villages hold an Eisteddfod once a year – a contest for local poets, singers and musicians. All but the largest ones are generally only advertised inside the town itself but visitors are welcome to attend. Other special events celebrated include:
January Mari Llwyd Torchlit Walk, Llanwrtyd. March Folk and Ale Festival, Llanwrtyd Wells. May/June Hay Festival (literary festival), Hay-On-Wye. July Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, Llangollen; Royal Welsh Show (agricultural show), Builth Wells; Fishguard International Music Festival, Fishguard; Welsh Proms, Cardiff; The Big Cheese (summer festival in celebration of cheese), Caerphilly. July/August Cardiff International Festival, Cardiff. August National Eisteddfod of Wales, St Davids; Herb Festival, Carew; Brecon Jazz Festival, Brecon; Big Snorkelling Competition, Llanwrtyd Wells; Cardiff Pride (gay and lesbian parade), Cardiff. October Swansea Festival of Music and the Arts, Swansea. November Mid-Wales Beer Festival, Llanwrtyd Wells. November Cardiff Round Table Firework Display, Cardiff. December 6 A Tudor Advent (themed Christmas event with costume competition), National Botanic Gardens, Llanarthne.

Society of Wales

Handshaking is customary when introduced to someone for the first time. Normal social courtesies should be observed when visiting someone’s home and a small present such as flowers or chocolates is appreciated. It is not customary to start eating until everyone is served. Use of public places: Topless sunbathing is allowed on certain beaches and tolerated in some parks. Smoking or non-smoking areas will usually be clearly marked. Cigarettes should not legally be sold to children under 16 years of age.
Tipping: taxi drivers, hairdressers, barbers and waitstaff 10-15% of the final bill. Some restaurants include a charge for service in the bill, so check before paying.

Food in Wales

In most major centres, British and continental food is available. Welsh cooking is, in general, simple with abundant fresh local produce, particularly meat and fish. Near the coast, seafood is also widely available. Local dishes include Welsh rarebit (cheese on toast), leek soup, bara brith (a type of tea bread) and laver bread, which is made with seaweed.

Visa for Wales

EU citizens may live and work free of any immigration controls. Citizens of the USA, Canada, Australia, South Africa and New Zealand are generally allowed to stay six months without a visa.