Deciding where to go on holiday is one question, followed by the time of year, type of accommodation and very often, travel companion.  Now a new question has become even more important, should we go by air or sea?

The recent problems associated with the ash cloud that dominated the travel headlines across Europe meant that a whole new angst had entered the mindset of the seasonal traveller. What to do for the best. Should we be looking more closely at ferry travel?

Millions of people travel by ferry every day, most will be lorry drivers with heavy loads often sleeping on the slower over night ferries, many will be van drivers taking a ferry to France on a short trip that will not be much longer than a trip across a busy city in the UK on any work day afternoon. Then there are the seasoned ferry travellers on holiday who cross the sea with their caravans, motor homes, trailer tents and bike racks. No hanging around in airports or intensive security checks, just a quick boarding procedure and a pleasant walk about the decks a spot of civilised shopping and on the longer trips, a night in a cabin before breakfast.

Ferry travel is, less stressful on many levels and although sea sickness can be a problem, pills or wrist bands can usually put a stop to that inconvenience.  Ferries are subject to weather conditions, but so are aircraft and at least once you are on a ferry you can stretch your legs and move around.

Ferry travel is not just a popular choice for day trippers and although a bit of planning and forethought is needed to circumnavigate Europe to arrive at exactly your chosen destination, you are always able to stop off, have a bite to eat or explore a new town or village otherwise missed. The Dover to Calais ferry route is one of the most popular routes in Europe; it is also one of the shortest between two countries and is a good one to practice on, just to see if you have sea legs.  Visits to France on a ferry, and unlike a trip on a plane, means you bring back all of those lovely foods and wine that would be disallowed at the airport.