They're growing hysteria ... down on the farm

Overnight, the Costa Concordia disaster shattered the image of the most durably successful travel sector. The giant ship belonging to the world's biggest cruise firm, Carnival, struck a rock on 13 January. By dawn the next day, more than 30 passengers and crew had died. The big question for the cruise industry is: has that tragedy put off some potential customers for life?

City Slicker: Montevideo - This capital city claims to run the world's longest carnival. Declan McGarvey finds many more reasons why it's worth a visit

Terry Kirby selects the best bottles to buy

1. Cockburn's Special Reserve

Don't leave anything to chance! The key to a successful festive season is military planning, says our wine expert.

British sailor Dee Caffari became the only woman to have sailed around the world non-stop three times when she finished the Barcelona World Race today.

Poitou-Charentes is a region of contrast, balancing the natural beauty of the Atlantic coast and the Cognac country along the river Charente, with an array of activities and sights that will delight visitors of all ages.