They always say, particularly in darker times, that the future's always bright. After a gloomy 2011, it's about time British travellers had something to look forward to for next year. Then again, with all manner of great coach holidays in 2012 , you can ensure that certain things will always tickle your fancy, even if you have to deal with average weather once again. With the new year fast approaching, it seems only right that you book ahead to avoid disappointment and have something to look forward to after ushering in January.
So, to start us off with our trio of things to do...
1) London Olympics 2012
The capital will be an extremely exciting place to be in next year. Coach holidays will continue to run in and out of the city on a daily basis because of its cultural hub-like nature, though the Olympics will make it a melting pot of people from all nations - even if it already is!
As it becomes the first city in the world to host the Olympic Games three times, London will also become home to the tallest building in all of Europe upon the May completion of Shard London Bridge, which will stand at 310m (1,017ft) tall. Clad entirely in glass, Shard will host the UK's highest viewing deck at the 72nd floor, eclipsing the likes of the London Eye and St Paul's Cathedral. With all that sport and the perfect view to see just how busy it may be in the summer, it just seems like the best place to spend your time and money, especially if you're taking in a few shows, doing some shopping and generally having the best food and drink that the UK has to offer.
2) The Diamond Jubilee, London
The Queen has a special place in the hearts and minds of her loyal British subjects. After working so hard for her many millions of pounds, it only seems right that you would spend some time in the capital saluting her. Get yourself down to London to applaud 60 years of the Queen's reign, centring around an extended weekend from the 2nd to the 5th of June.
The government will be co-ordinating Her Majesty's celebrations alongside Buckingham Palace; obvious additions like fireworks and parades will woo the crowds, but all manner of surprises lie in wait for travellers.
3) Edinburgh Tattoo
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is the most revered series of military gatherings and is carried out by the British, Commonwealth and International Armed Forces in the Scottish capital. While it's long been seen as something that only older generations have an interest in, missing out on this spectacle is not fair on yourself. Taking place throughout August as part of the Edinburgh Festival itself (including the world-famous Fringe), you should definitely involve yourself in this excellent tradition.
You may as well make the most of 2012; after all, if you subscribe to Mayan folklore and other scholarly accounts, you will understand that December 21st is believed to be the day the world ends. Enjoy this Christmas while you can should you subscribe to this notion, though ensure you get the most out of Britain while it lasts. After all, it's well worth it - especially with great deals from coach holiday offerings.
