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The EU is issuing a stern travel warning against unnecessary travel to Zimbabwe as tensions mount following a controversial presidential poll.

Earlier this week, Britain stripped Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe of his knighthood, which was awarded to him by Elizabeth II in 1994.  The British mission in Zimbabwe also issued travel warnings as violence mounted even after the withdrawal of opposition Movement for Democratic (MDC) leader Morgan Tsvangirai.

In a statement, the British mission said: “We are now advising against all but essential travel to Zimbabwe at this time due to the continuing tension surrounding the election and the deployment of uniformed forces (police and military) and war veterans across the country.”

Officials in Germany have also encouraged tourists to be on high alert, saying:  “Tourist trips must be put on hold and only necessary business trips taken as there are no signs that the violence will decrease.”

Zimbabwe’s political situation went into crisis mode on Sunday after Tsvangirai announced that he was pulling out of Friday’s presidential election, saying violence had made a fair vote impossible.  Tsvangirai had beaten Mugabe in the first round of the election, but failed to get the majority required to take the presidency of his rival. 

The UN Security Council has condemned the violence in Zimbabwe.  Meanwhile, Britain, France and the United States have branded Mugabe’s regime as “illegitimate.”

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European tourism has exceeded all expectations, despite higher fuel prices, higher taxes and tougher security at airports across the continent.

The findings of the European Commission’s ETC Tourism Insights Report 2007, reveals international arrivals and overnight stays rose by 4-5%, beating forecasts made by the World Tourism Organisation. 

The figures show that a huge percentage of the increase came from the short break market.

The big hitters for 2007 were Montenegro, Serbia, Iceland, and Turkey, all gaining 20% or more.  Meanwhile, Greece, Lithuania and Malta also enjoyed double growth in arrivals. 

Commenting on the figures, ETC Executive Director Rob Franklin said: “By contrast, governments of many emerging economies have earmarked tourism as a means of diversification and as a result, are making huge investments in tourism infrastructure development and marketing to support the sector, as well as facilitating and stimulating private sector investment in tourism.”

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The independence and flexibility offered by driving holidays is undeniable.  This summer, break out of your usual routine, opt for car hire and discover the true delights of your holiday destination.  To whet your appetite for a summer of action-packed adventure, we’ve compiled a selection of the world’s best-loved routes.

Get Your Kicks On Route 66 with US Car Hire

This route, which extends from Chicago to Los Angeles, has got to be the world’s most famous drive.  Travelling along the historic Mother Route, you’ll discover a variety of interesting towns, cultures and regions. 

Along the way, you’ll uncover many hidden gems including the steel and glass canyons of the Miracle Mile in Chicago and the Grand Canyon National Park.  Experience the wonderful spectacle of the lush fields of the Midwest drifting into the red rock desert and back again, once you arrive in California.
You can even catch a movie at a fifties-style outdoor theatre on the way.  For a selection of up-to date maps and suggested routes, check out Stanfords.

Four Wheels Are Better Than Two With Car Hire France

Follow the roads most travelled by the Tour de France.  Marvel at the mountains of the Alps and the Pyrenees and take a tour of the wine regions of southern France and shop ‘til you drop in Paris. 

The tour kicks off in Brittany this year, but it’s well worth checking out the official Tour de France website for more information on the route.

Get the Job Done with Car Hire Italy

Follow the famous ‘Italian Job’ route from Imola to Monza.  The 1960s classic has been luring copycat drivers for decades.  With a rental car it’s possible to enjoy all the film’s famous locations in Turin, Venice and Monza.

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