Destination:

Orlando

Depart:
Gatwick

Dates / Times:
Departing 01/09/2011
Returning 15/09/2011
Duration:
14 Nights

Staying in:

Champions World Resort

Star Rating:
2

Room Type:
Board Basis:
RO

Description:
Located on 15 tropical acres, this resort is less than 6.5km from Walt Disney World Resort, with complimentary shuttles. All 435 spacious guestrooms, accessed via exterior corridors, include dial-up Internet access and complimentary premium channels. The resort has an outdoor pool, a children’s pool, a spa tub, and an additional covered outdoor pool. Other recreation includes a fitness room, a playground, two tennis courts, half-court basketball, sand volleyball, and shuffleboard and golf is available within a mile of the resort. Complimentary equipment is provided. Kids under 12 years may have daily buffet breakfast free of charge when accompanied by a paying adult. The resort also houses a playing field for soccer and baseball. Pool tables and video games are located in the lobby lounge. Howard Johnson Maingate West is located just 6km from the main entrance of Walt Disney World and approximately 40km from the airport.

 

To book this deal call 01823 478305 and quote reference no: 404315-HAY

Places on this offer are limited so please click here to check availability or call me NOW on 01823 478305

 

Experience the ultimate in luxury and relaxation with this exclusive getaway to Dubai. Spend four unforgettable nights on an all inclusive basis at the Ibn Battuta Gate, a landmark five star hotel boasting exceptional levels of comfort and service. Located in New Dubai , next to the stunning shopping mall of the same name, the Ibn Battuta Gate offers impressive facilities in a great location. The all inclusive package here gives you a choice of eight different dining venues, each one serving first-class global cuisine. Take the complimentary shuttle transfer to the hotel’s very own private beach club on manmade island The Palm. Here, you can unwind by the infinity pool and lazy river and enjoy snacks, drinks and ice cream – all included in the cost of your holiday. Prices on this luxurious break start from £749 per person, including return flights from a choice of UK departure airports.

Dubai

With its desert climate, pristine beaches, golf courses and outstanding hospitality, Dubai is one of the world’s most desirable holiday destinations. From the glossy shopping malls of new Dubai to the charming markets in the old part of town, this Emirates city is one of contrasts. Discover rolling sand dunes, towering skyscrapers, exciting water parks and white sands. Visit The Palm (the world’s largest manmade island), scale the heights of Burj Khalifa (the tallest building on earth) and check in to one of the planet’s grandest hotels. Dubai allows you to combine a unique city break with a relaxing beach getaway - all in one amazing holiday.

The Hotel

Recently opened, the iconic, five star Ibn Battuta Gate hotel and its neighbouring shopping mall are themed around the worldwide adventures of explorer Ibn Battuta. Offering the rare opportunity to enjoy an all inclusive holiday in Dubai, the Ibn Battuta Gate gives you a choice of eight different dining venues, serving cuisine from Sicily to Shanghai. The plush, spacious rooms are decorated in a contemporary style with Arabian influences. The impressive facilities include a gym, spa, kids’ club, nightclub, rooftop pool and an exclusive private beach club on The Palm*.

 

When
For stays from 1st to 30th September. Stays also available to 7th January 2013 at a supplement

Where from
Based on London Heathrow, Birmingham, Manchester, and Newcastle departures.

Savings
Hays Travel bring you this exclusive deal making use of the amazing all inclusive programme at the Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel and its private Oceana Beach Club on the Palm.

Best bits about the deal
A rare opportunity to experience 5* luxury in a All Inclusive concept within Dubai – get the best of both worlds by immersing yourself in the culture that Dubai City has to offer, as well as the hotel’s private and exclusive Oceana Beach Club on the Palm Dubai, giving unprecedented access to an all inclusive city and beach experience, in such luxurious surroundings.

 

GO FURTHER FOR LESS WITH EXCLUSIVE FARAWAY DEALS

Mediterranean Stay & Cruise

 

6 nights HB in Fuengirola

7 nights FB Western Mediterranean Cruise, PLUS a FREE bottle of Champagne in your cabin on arrival, from us to say thank you !

Flying from your local airport

Exclusive price from only £759PP

Prices are correct at 21st July 2011. Prices are “from” per person based on two persons sharing lowest available inside stateroom. Lead in fares are based on the 06th May 2012 departure.

Onboard service charges are additional to the fares shown. Prices are subject to increase/withdrawal at anytime & subject to availability. Flights may be on indirect gateways and are subject to availability.

Full Terms and Conditions apply.

 

From relaxing spa breaks and gourmet tours to the great outdoors, Switzerland has a broad appeal.

They take healthy living seriously, the Swiss. And through slogans like ‘Switzerland, get natural’ the tourism board is encouraging us Brits to get in on the act, too.

It shouldn’t be a hard sell – their rejuvenating lakes and mountains and fresh air have been attracting active types and convalescents year-round for generations, and as you’d expect from a country that gave us household names such as Kuoni, local operators know a thing or two about meeting travellers’ expectations.

The country attracts a loyal following and remains a steady seller for the likes of Kuoni. Jack Kirsch, the company’s market co-ordinator for Switzerland says: “Wengen is still our top-selling resort, along with Interlaken and Zermatt, but we are starting to see considerable growth in Adelboden, Grindelwald, Davos and St Moritz.

"We are also seeing more demand for three-star properties, but the four-star sector remains strong.”

Diversity

Part of the country’s charm lies in its ethnic make up. Its different regions, or ‘cantons’, boast distinct French, German and Italian influences, evidenced in the local architecture, culture and cuisine.

Whether loading up on hearty staples such as raclette in the Valais, sampling Italian food in Ticino canton or splashing out at one of the country’s 93 Michelin-starred eateries, food is a highlight of any trip. As is exploring the picturesque towns and cities such as Lucerne, with its mix of contemporary and medieval architecture; Thun, with its fairytale castle; Chur, the country’s oldest city; and Zurich, the country’s largest city, with its charming old town.

Active

Outside of the ski season, resorts like Les Diablerets are alive with possibilities such as paragliding and mountain biking. Klosters, home to the Swiss Bike Masters in July, is a good bet for cyclists.

Golfers will appreciate St Moritz, in Graubünden, with its five golf courses, while summer skiing in Zermatt is offered by Thomson and Crystal. Family-friendly active bases include Hoseasons’ Landal resort on Lake Walensee.

Having declared 2011 the Year of Walking, the tourism board is promoting the many hiking trails, details of which can be found at myswitzerland.com/hiking.

New products include UTracks’ seven-day Bernese Oberland walking tour, from £750, and Neilson’s guided Mont Blanc Snowshoe Week, which also visits France and Italy, and costs from £995 in January and February, excluding flights.

Relaxing

The many excellent spas offer another major selling point. Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, home to Grand Hotel Quellenhof & Spa Suites and Grand Hotel Hof Ragaz, recently invested €95 million refurbishing its accommodation and spa facilities.

Other options include the Grand Hotel Kronenhof, near St Moritz, with its 2,000sq metre spa, and the Cinq Mondes Spa at the Beau-Rivage Palace, which has cracking views of Lake Geneva and the Swiss Alps. At the Just Pure Spa at The Cambrian, in Adelboden, treatments are tied in with the cycles of the moon.

Other relaxing options include cruising Lake Geneva on a paddle steamer, taking a helicopter flight over the Weisshorn, Matterhorn and Monte Rosa mountains (20-minute flight from £165 with Kuoni); and hitching a ride on the Rotair, the world’s first revolving cable car (from £45 with Kuoni).

Gelmer funicular railway

Trains

Switzerland is also a rail-lover’s paradise. There are trains everywhere, in all shapes, sizes and gradients –106% in the case of the Gelmer, the world’s steepest funicular.

It’s home to Europe’s highest railway station, at Jungfraujoch, and Europe’s highest open-air cog railway, which runs between Zermatt and Gornergrat, offering glimpses of 29 mountain peaks and the Gorner Glacier (from £29 with Kuoni).

The iconic Glacier Express, from Zermatt to St Moritz, is sold by everyone from Thomson to Dertour and it’s the top seller for Great Rail Journeys, which also offers a standard class option through its value brand, Treyn. Another popular option is a ride on the Belle Époque-style Swiss Chocolate Train, topped off with a tasting session at the Nestlé factory in Broc (£35, Kuoni).

Other top picks include the William Tell Express and the Golden Pass Classic, with its vintage Orient-Express carriages, as featured in Thomson’s ten or eleven night Golden Pass Tour and Vintage Orient-Express independent train tour.

New products

For its new nine-day Swiss Classic tour, Great Rail Journeys has chartered a vintage train, with restored 1940s carriages. Departing September 10, it starts at £2,355, including return rail travel from London, eight nights’ hotel accommodation, some meals and excursions

Crystal’s new summer ‘immersion holidays’ offer experiential holidays based around resort centres such as Interlaken, Montreux and Zermatt. Thomson, meanwhile, has expanded its range of ‘Platinum’ hotel stays at properties like the four-star Hotel Parco Paradiso in Lugano, and introduced a new tour. A Taste of Switzerland includes a ride on the Chocolate Train and trips to Gruyère Castle, a cheese factory and the foodie centre of Gstaad.

Thomson and Crystal have also added Hotel Aristella in Zermatt, and the Hotel Royal Plaza and Swiss Majestic Hotel in Montreux. Plus, a new Thomson flight route is servicing the resort of Lugano via Zurich from Heathrow, Birmingham and Manchester.

Kuoni’s new family-friendly Swiss Adventure Tour includes activities such as tobogganing and zip-wiring, while Inghams has added a new property – the all-inclusive chalet Hotel Ambassador in Saas Fee, available on ‘chalet board’.

Send super-sleuths on Travelsphere’s 10-day Best of Switzerland tour (from £759), which visits the Reichenbach Falls, where Sherlock Holmes battled Professor Moriarti, and a museum devoted to the fictional detective

 

New hotels in Lucerne include the Renaissance Lucerne Hotel. The nearby 23-room Hotel Villa Honegg, a five-star boutique country hotel, has an infinity pool and private cinema, while the renovated Hotel Pilatus Kulm, which opened last summer, is a historic gem perched on a mountainside.

In Bern, the five-star Hotel Schweizerhof opened last month, offering 100 rooms and suites. New offerings in Zürich include the four-star, 159-room Ramada Hotel Zürich City and the 300-room Renaissance Zürich Tower Hotel (opening in August).

New Zürich openings for 2012 include the funky 25hours Hotel and the B2 Boutique Hotel. Housed in a former brewery it includes a thermal spa, which is already open and offers 360-degree views of Zürich.

Deals and offers

Some resorts like Klosters and Davos provide passes offering free transportation, and free entry to local attractions.

Inghams includes a half-price travel card in all its Swiss holidays worth £60. Many Swiss hotels offer free nights. The Meierhof Davos, available through Kuoni, is giving up to seven free nights (with breakfast) for stays of seven nights or more until October 8.

Jack Kirsch, Kuoni, says: “Even though Switzerland is expensive, most hotels offer a four or five-course evening meal as part of the half-board, which represents real value for money.”

 

source: www.travelweekly.co.uk

The tourist board wants holidaymakers to look beyond coastal resorts - and there's plenty to see…..
San Miguel de Allende

The beaches of Mexico’s Caribbean coast are stunning. So stunning, in fact, that’s it’s easy for tourists to get stuck on them. With BA’s new flight to Cancun hogging the headlines, there’s a danger the natural and cultural delights on offer in the rest of this vast country could be forgotten.

To draw attention to the country’s sightseeing wonders, the Mexico Tourism Board is basing its promotional activities on 10 routes, which connect different areas of the country around a series of themes including tequila and music, Mayan culture, and wine and water sports.

Whether it’s a day trip, a short excursion or an entire tour, clients can inject some extra flavour into their holiday by going beyond the beach and seeing some of Mexico’s other sights.

Mexico highlights

Mexico City: This is one of the world’s largest cities, with masses to see, including the largest cathedral and the largest zocalo (main square) in Latin America, and artworks by famous Mexican artists such as Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo.

More unusual experiences include cruising the Aztec-era Xochimilco canals in a brightly coloured boat, or seeing a highly-entertaining Lucha Libre wrestling match – the Mexican version of WWF. An hour’s drive north of the city is the pre-Aztec site of Teotihuacan.

Archaeological sites: While Europe was still in the Dark Ages, the Mayans built huge jungle cities without metal tools or even the wheel. Their stupendous pyramids and statues are a big tourist draw, and famous sites include Chichen Itza, Tulum and Uxmal on the Yucatan Peninsula, and Palenque in Chiapas.

Colonial cities: Mexico is dotted with picturesque towns and cities full of colonial buildings, brightly coloured markets and wonderful Mexican atmosphere. In San Miguel de Allende, north of Mexico City, a new Rosewood resort opened in January, with a luxurious spa and activities such as hiking and horse riding.

The town is home to the Casa de Sierra Nevada, an Orient-Express hotel with an acclaimed cooking school. South of Mexico City, Oaxaca is known for its culinary delights and local arts and crafts. Other pretty choices include San Cristobal de la Casas, Campeche and Merida.

Copper Canyon: The best way to see the breathtaking scenery of these 20 canyons in northwest Mexico is by taking the Chepe, the Copper Canyon railway, which runs 375 miles daily between Los Mochis and Chihuahua City. The views are amazing, and many tourists stop off at some point to explore local villages.

Baja California: This peninsula of land stretches 775 miles from the border with California in the north down to the tip of Cabo San Lucas. It’s separated from the mainland by the Sea of Cortes, a whale breeding ground. There are deserts and mountains but most tourists come for the beaches and world-class golf. Luxury resorts abound, including the One & Only Palmilla, Rosewood’s Las Ventanas al Paraiso and Capella Pedregal (pictured below).

Pacific Coast: The jungles of the Sierra Madre back Mexico’s Pacific beach resorts, which include Puerto Vallarta and Acapulco.

Caribbean Coast: The Brits' favourite. Clear waters, white sands and a wide range of accommodation make this the perfect winter-sun location. From lively Cancun itself to the quieter, more upmarket Riviera Maya, there are options for most budgets.

Pool bar at Capella Pedregal

Excursions

For those who simply want a few opportunities for activity and sightseeing on their beach holiday, day excursions are simple to book.

All operators, hotels and add-on specialists have a wide range, including day trips to Chichen Itza and Tulum, visits to Xel-Ha and Xcaret Eco-Waterparks, catamaran cruises to Isla Mujeres, and swimming with dolphins and snorkelling with whale sharks.

Attraction World has added a range of dolphin experiences at the Wet’n Wild waterpark in Cancun, with a Dolphin Swim package starting from $115. This includes time in the water, a ‘dorsal tow’ or a ‘foot push’ ride, plus a food and drinks plan.

Tours and twin-centres in Mexico

For a lovely taster without too much travelling around, suggest a few days in Mexico City followed by time on the Caribbean Coast. This way, clients can explore the vibrant and exciting capital before relaxing, incorporating days out to see Mayan ruins. Kuoni offers a 13-night break, with three nights in Mexico City, 10 in Cancun and international and domestic flights, from £1,705 in September.

Or combine a Caribbean coast beach stay with time exploring the area’s historic sights. Travel 2 offers a range of beach hotels, plus a five-day Discover Yucatan’s Mayan Ruins tour. The latter costs from £829 land-only.

Tours usually start in Mexico City and most commonly venture south, curving down through Oaxaca to San Cristobal de las Casas and then heading for the Yucatan Peninsula. Cox & Kings’ 12-night Highlights of Mexico tour starts from £2,639 and covers these bases, and clients can choose add-on options including the Copper Canyon and the Pacific or Caribbean coasts.

Of the tours that head north instead, some concentrate on Copper Canyon. W&O Travel offers a six-night package exploring the canyon by the Chepe train, from £595, including accommodation and excursions.

Others venture to the colonial cities north of Mexico City. Journey Latin America’s new self-drive itinerary, Colonial Cities and the Pacific Coast, costs from £1,902 excluding transatlantic flights, while Page & Moy offers an escorted tour called Butterflies and Mexican Culture from £1,855, including flights.

Specialist operator Cathy Matos Mexican Tours covers every inch of the country and tailor-makes trips to clients’ specifications.

Adventure operators have plenty of options in Mexico. Exodus has a new family trip called Magic of Mexico suitable for children aged eight and above. It centres on the Yucatan peninsula and includes visiting Chichen Itza on horseback, swimming in natural pools, visiting a working hacienda and seeing the sights in the colonial city of Merida. The tour costs from £1,499 (£999 child), including flights.

souce:www.travelweekly.co.uk

Joanna Booth visited California’s sunniest city ahead of BA’s direct service from Heathrow, launching in June…

“Paddle, paddle, paddle,” says Whitney. “That’s great. Now press up on your hands and toes, and pop up on to your feet.” I leap forward, and land left-foot first in the middle of my surfboard. Perfect.

If only it was that easy once you’re actually in the sea. What seemed relatively simple on the beach’s firm golden sand is another matter when the board is scudding over the waves. Most of my attempts to “pop up” end with a faceful of foam. But the sun is shining brightly and the ocean is warm, so it’s all part of the fun. And on the few occasions that I do make it upright, the sensation is exhilarating – and I have my own one-woman cheerleading squad in the shape of Whitney, whooping in support.

Surf Diva’s motto is that the best surfer in the water is the one having the most fun, and this easy, breezy attitude means the surf school’s lessons are wildly popular with children and adults.

The school is based on the long, sandy beach at La Jolla, a well-heeled coastal resort 20 minutes from Downtown, and the Surf Diva motto translates rather well for the whole of San Diego. This sunny, laid-back city just wants its visitors to have fun. There’s no pressure to see an exhausting list of sights, but there’s a whole host of things to do, whether you’re on the lookout for family fun, beachside pursuits or city slicking.

San Diego is set to welcome a greater influx of visitors from the UK when British Airways relaunches a daily direct flight from Heathrow in June. The flight will last 11 hours and the Boeing 777 offers Club World, World Traveller Plus and World Traveller cabins.

Previously, many Brits have tended to explore the stretch of California between San Francisco and Los Angeles, but now they will have the chance to easily extend their reach down to San Diego. It’s California’s most southerly city, sitting 120 miles down the coast from LA, but only 15 miles north of Tijuana, and Mexican influences can be seen in cuisine and architecture.

It’s a destination of districts, with each area offering something different, from the world-class museums and exhibitions of Balboa Park, to the buzzing bars of the Gaslamp Quarter.

Downtown

The centre of San Diego is manageably sized and easy to navigate once you get a handle on the usual US grid system. An easy way to get around is the Old Town Trolley, which loops around the main hotspots, allowing tourists to jump on and off as they please.

The Gaslamp Quarter is the dining and nightlife centre – a strip a couple of blocks wide and 16 long is home to more than 100 restaurants and 40 nightclubs and bars. There are plenty of grand Victorian buildings, in keeping with the old-style street lights that give the area its name.

If the Padres are playing in Petco Park, the baseball stadium at the Gaslamp’s southern end, clients without tickets should head for the rooftop bars of the Hotel Indigo and the Marriott Gaslamp Quarter, which have views over the field.

At the north end of Gaslamp, Horton Plaza is a five-storey shopping centre with 130 stores, including Stateside favourites such as Macy’s, Nordstrom and Abercrombie & Fitch.

Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego

East of Gaslamp is the up-and-coming East Village. Visitors will find trendy bars and restaurants, including the charming Cafe Chloe, which serves a Californian take on French bistro eating.

West of Gaslamp is the waterfront, with the cruise ship terminal, a large convention centre, and two museums providing the main focus for tourists. The city has a massive naval presence, and the USS Midway Museum is the quickest way to get a military flavour. Once aboard the hulking aircraft carrier, visitors can get up close to jet fighters, visit the bridge and the engine room and even loop the loop on the Strike Fighter flight simulator.

North of Gaslamp is Balboa Park, one of the most important addresses for tourists to remember. Rather conveniently, San Diego has taken many of its headline sights and museums, and built them all together within a large landscaped park. These include the brilliant San Diego Zoo – one of the world’s best – a number of art museums, a natural history museum, a space and science centre, a car museum and a sports museum. Pick a couple and spend the day there.

Further north is Old Town, the site of the first Spanish settlement on the West Coast and the city’s Hispanic heart between 1821 and 1872, when Mexico gained independence from Spain and took over the area. The five-hectare site is slightly cartoonish in nature, with Mexican restaurants, margarita bars and themed gift shops in among the museums and original wood and adobe buildings.

The beaches

San Diego’s most beautiful city beach is on the peninsula of Coronado. Always referred to as an island, Coronado sits across the bay from Downtown and can be reached over the huge, arching bridge, or by ferry. It’s a quiet spot, with some quaint old houses. Recommend clients visit for a day and start with brunch at the delicious cafe-bakery Tartine and spend some time on the wide, white, family-friendly expanse of sand.

Behind the beach is the Hotel Del Coronado, one of America’s earliest and best known resort hotels. Clients may recognise the white clapperboard and pointed roofs of the hotel from the Marilyn Monroe film Some Like It Hot, which was filmed here in 1959. If clients don’t have time to stay in the famous Hotel Del, book them in for a treatment at the spa. The therapists are excellent, and there’s a private seafront pool with comfortable loungers and great amenities.

Moving north up the coast, Ocean Beach is known as San Diego’s hippy beach, with family-owned and independent shops rather than chain stores. Above this, Pacific Beach and Mission Beach are where the party is to be found, popular with students and young sun-worshippers. Mission Beach is home to SeaWorld San Diego, where guests can watch trained killer whales, manatees, seals, dolphins and penguins perform, and enjoy behind-the-scenes animal encounters and water rides.

North again is La Jolla. This upscale neighbourhood really is stunning, with picture-perfect beaches suiting families and surfers and a central village of upmarket shops, destination restaurants and a fine Contemporary Art Museum.

• Find out more at sandiego.org

Tried and tested: San Diego hotels

La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club

A sprawling, Hacienda-style property, the La Jolla resort sits on a private beach. It’s a paradise for families, with studio rooms and suites available that include kitchen and living room facilities. The beachfront rooms offer stunning sunset views, and direct access to the beach where every evening families gather for barbecues – the hotel provides all the equipment.

There’s a pool, gym, and 12 tennis courts, plus two restaurants. The Marine Room is renowned for its exquisite seafood and amazing location – the waves break right over the glazed front of the restaurant. It’s worth a visit, even if clients are staying elsewhere.

Borrego Valley Inn

The low-rise, sandy coloured buildings of Borrego Valley blend into the desert scenery, so guests feel at one with the landscape. There are just 15 rooms, done out in Southwestern style with Saltillo-tiled floors, Native American pictures and private patios, with their own sun loungers and a lemon tree. Rooms face each other across a courtyard filled with fountains and desert flora, and there are two swimming pools.

It’s the ultimate place to relax, sunbathing in the day and stargazing at night. The owners, Rich and Gwenn, are welcoming hosts who will help and advise with any activities, from desert tours, golf or cycling to spa treatments or restaurant recommendations. Buffet breakfasts are home-made and delicious. Hotel Indigo

The Indigo is a funky design hotel located on the outskirts of the Gaslamp Quarter, so it’s really convenient for downtown sightseeing. The 210 rooms have hardwood floors, bright bedspreads and large-scale graphic prints on the walls.

The open-plan lobby is home to the lounge, bar, and dining area for breakfast, but in the evenings head for the bar on ninth floor, which overlooks the nearby Petco Park baseball stadium.

 

source: www.travelweekly.co.uk

Cyprus is widening its appeal, with short breaks, golf trips and cultural tours luring back the Brits.

News that the number of UK tourists fell by 6.8% in 2010 cast a small grey cloud over the 300-plus days of annual sunshine enjoyed in Cyprus. As Brits make up nearly half of the inbound market any dip is noticeable.

However, with operators reporting buoyant sales, and the island having seen a 5% year-on-year increase in bookings for summer 2011, it looks like the sun has come out again.

Gary Boyer, head of purchasing at Classic Collection Holidays, says the operator’s bookings for Cyprus finished 4% up for winter 2010-11, with summer 2011 sales showing a 35% increase. Generally speaking, walking and activity holidays are on the up, and figures also show that 20% of sales are for three to five-night breaks, bucking the perception that Cyprus caters solely for traditional seven and 14-night stays.

Cyplon managing director Harry Hajipapas also reports an increase in the number of people travelling to Cyprus for shorter breaks of about four nights.

“Having said that, the most popular duration among our customers is now for between seven and 10 nights compared to the 14-night duration that used to be the most booked,” he adds.

This feedback is music to the ears of the Cyprus Tourism Organisation, whose recent marketing activity, including the Cyprus in Your Heart branding, is geared to show the diverse appeal of the Mediterranean’s third largest island beyond the obvious attraction of year-round sun.

“The philosophy behind the new brand is that Cyprus is an island of contrasts, offering countless possibilities and choices, whether it is the beautiful sandy beaches, exciting historical sites, mouth-watering cuisine, wonderful scenery or the genuine hospitality of the locals,” says Orestis Rossides, the CTO’s director for the UK and Ireland.

Short breaks

With a flight time of four-and-a-half hours, increased airlift, daily flights from Manchester, Heathrow and Gatwick, and weekly flights from regional airports, it’s easy to see the appeal of Cyprus as a destination for long weekends and short breaks.

What’s more, sun is virtually guaranteed, making winter and shoulder-season stays a good-value choice, either for relaxing on the beach or taking in Unesco-listed cultural attractions such as Kourion and the Tombs of the Kings.

A top short-break destination is Larnaca. The island’s third-largest city is only 10 minutes from the airport and there’s plenty to see and do on Larnaca’s lively mile-long promenade, which is lined with shops, restaurants, bars and pubs, so clients don’t have to venture far afield.

Golfers’ paradise

Cyprus is an emerging golfers’ paradise where players can tee off year-round in an ideal Mediterranean climate. In the absence of wind and rain the only things likely to put golfers off their stroke are the breathtaking views from the greens. Mainly located in the Paphos region, courses are away from the bustle of the main resorts but easily accessible.

New for 2011 is Elea Golf Club, dubbed Nick Faldo’s Mediterranean masterpiece. The 71-par course is centrepiece of the Elea Estate where an on-site boutique hotel and spa is due for completion in summer 2012.

Already well established on the Cyprus golf scene is Aphrodite Hills, the five-star resort complex with plenty on offer for golfing widows and for non-golfers travelling with players.

Golf at Aphrodite Hills, Cyprus

Family favourite

A former British colony until 1960, Cyprus’s historical links have always made it popular with the mature market, with many repeat visitors and a large number of ex-pats living on the island.

But it also has plenty to offer families, with safe beaches, a relaxed lifestyle, tavernas and restaurants that actively welcome youngsters, and accommodation ranging from self-catering to all-inclusive hotels with kids’ clubs and excellent family facilities. Recent developments include a new children’s activity centre, Pirates Village, at Aphrodite Hills.

An added bonus is that everyone speaks English and it’s easy for families to hire a car and get around as Cypriots drive on the left.

Budget options

While Cyprus doesn’t immediately spring to mind as a budget destination there are good deals to be found. Sales of Sunvil’s core product, self-catering villas, remain steady and the operator reports plenty of interest in the rural boutique hotels recently introduced to the programme. These properties, plus village rooms, are excellent for clients seeking a really authentic experience.

Olympic Holidays has seen a swing towards Paphos, which has a good choice in the three and four-star bracket for clients who don’t want to stay in the resort’s five-star hotels.

New to Olympic’s 2011 budget Smart Choice brochure are the four-star Crown Resorts Horizon at Coral Bay and a trio of three-star hotels – the Agapinor in Paphos, Nissiana in Ayia Napa and Crown Resorts Henipa in Larnaca.

Sample product

Sunvil Holidays has seven nights’ B&B at Antony’s Garden House, a 19th-century village inn at Episkopi, from £681 in August, including British Airways flights from Gatwick and car hire.
,

Olympic Holidays offers seven nights’ self-catering at Stavrolia Hotel Apartments on the outskirts of Ayia Napa from £505 per adult and £355 per child for travel in August, based on two adults and two children sharing a one-bedroom apartment that sleeps four. Price includes Fly Hellas flights from Manchester.

Prestige Holidays offers seven nights’ B&B in a junior suite at the InterContinental Aphrodite Hills Resort from £4,437 for two adults and two children (aged under six) for travel in August, including Monarch flights from Gatwick.

Destination:
Costa Blanca

Depart:
Newcastle

Dates / Times:
Departing 24/05/2011

Returning 07/06/2011

Duration:
14 Nights

Staying in:
Albir Gardens
Star Rating:
3

Room Type:
Board Basis:
SC

Description:
This attractive complex comprises of apartment blocks situated around a large lake style pool with appealing terrace areas and offers basic, spacious and comfortable accommodation. A short walk will take you to Albir’s beaches and shops along with a great variety of local and international bars and restaurants to take in the relaxed nightlife.

We have many other departure dates and airports available – search online or call one of our travel advisors today.

To book this offer call us on 01823 478305

and quote reference no: 244666-HAY

Prices are subject to change and availability. Hays Travel reserve the right to withdraw promotional prices at any time. All prices are based on maximum occupancy in standard rooms.

Destination:
Thailand
Depart:
Heathrow

Dates / Times:
Departing 07/06/2011
Returning 17/06/2011
Duration:
10 Nights

Staying in:
Ambassador Bangkok and Best Western Premier
Star Rating:
3 and 4

Room Type:
Standard
Board Basis:
BB

Description:
Ambassador Bangkok
The Ambassador Hotel Bangkok Is situated at a prime spot in the heart of fashionable Sukhumvit Rd., Bangkok's legendary commercial district. Half an hour from Bangkok's Don Muang Internation Airport, close to Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre, and near great shopping and entertainment venues, the Ambassdor is only two minutes walk from Nana Skytrain Station.
Best Western Premier Signature
Best Western Premier Signature Hotel Pattaya is an ideal hotel for either a business trip or leisure travel. Our guests may enjoy a wide range of attractions, such as the seaside city of Pattaya, located in the center of the town and boasting beautiful bay views with its convenient location. We offer easy access to the beaches, shopping, restaurants and pubs, a beauty salon, Spa Royal Park, taxi rentals, motor bikes, market convenience store, banks and public transportation. All the city prime entertainment and leisure outlets are within casual distance known as 'Walking Street'.

We have many other departure dates and airports available – search online or call one of our travel advisors today.

To book this offer call us on 0182 347 8305

and quote reference no: 233092-HAY

Prices are subject to change and availability. Hays Travel reserve the right to withdraw promotional prices at any time. All prices are based on maximum occupancy in standard rooms.

 

Combine a hip beach and city break with a tropical island getaway with this special twin centre holiday to Miami and the Florida Keys.

Spend three nights bed and breakfast at the 3* Wyndham Garden Hotel in Miami's South Beach, then discover the stunning Florida Keys with a five night, room only stay at the 4* Hilton Key Largo Grande Resort and Beach Club, all from just £689 including flights.

Miami

Miles of pristine beaches, lively nightlife, great shopping and a Latino vibe – Miami is a glamorous city that begs to be explored. Take a walking tour to appreciate the colourful, art deco architecture, or peruse one of the city's many art galleries. Enjoy freshly-caught fish and the popular 'Floribbean' cuisine in great value restaurants. Visit Little Havana for a taste of Cuba, or go celebrity-spotting on Ocean Drive. After dark, Miami comes to life with an array of glossy cocktail bars and all-night clubs. Shopping fans can choose between unique boutiques in South Beach, bargain outlet malls just out of town and high-end designer stores in Coconut Grove. For families, Jungle Island wildlife park and Miami Children's Museum offer exciting days out. Don't miss fascinating sea life shows and the chance to swim with dolphins at Miami Seaquarium. There's far more to Miami than the beach, but it's world famous for a reason: enjoy energetic water sports, take a boat trip, or simply lie back and soak up the Floridian rays.

Key Largo

With stunning natural beauty and lots to see and do, Key Largo is a unique tropical holiday destination. The island is the first stop on the highway that snakes over the sea from the mainland, connecting the Florida Keys. Sandwiched between the Everglades National Park and North America's only living coral reef, Key Largo offers the chance to spot some fascinating wildlife, from bears to barracudas. Relax on white sandy beaches, take a boat trip through the dazzling jade green waters, or go snorkelling and diving (locals call Key Largo 'The Diving Capital of the World'.) Key Largo has a thriving artistic community, meaning that there are plenty of galleries to visit. You'll also find chilled-out bars and cool nightclubs, as well as in-hotel entertainment. The fishing off Key Largo is world famous, so it's little wonder that seafood is the local culinary speciality. There's an array of international restaurants too, including Mediterranean, Italian and fast food joints. Key Largo's got it all, but don't miss a road trip down the scenic highway to discover more of the Florida Keys.

Wyndham Garden Miami South Beach

Art Deco style hotel close to the beach
More information...

Key Largo Grande Resort and Beach Club

Tropical hideaway in a stunning location
More information...

This exclusive offer is limited and can only be booked by calling

01823 478305

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Combine a relaxing all inclusive break on the island of Majorca with an action-packed Mediterranean cruise on this exclusive stay and cruise summer holiday – all from just £679 per person.

Spend four nights at the 3* Aparthotel Novo Park in Paguera, then head to Palma to board Royal Caribbean’s Grandeur of the Seas. This magnificent, 4* ship is packed with family-friendly facilities and an array of dining and entertainment options. You'll stay on a full board basis for seven nights as you sail the Spanish Mediterranean, stopping off at exciting ports like Barcelona and Gibraltar.

The stay

You'll spend four nights on an all inclusive basis at the 3* Novo Park Hotel in Paguera. Nestled in well-tended gardens and surrounded by pine forests, it's a relaxing base for exploring the bustling coast of South Majorca. The lively resort centre, just 250 metres away, has a long promenade and good selection of shops, bars and restaurants. There's a pool, jacuzzi and Sauna on site at the hotel and the sandy beach is just 350 metres away. To find out more about the Novo Park Hotel, click here.

The cruise ship

With over two acres of glass canopies, skylights and breathtaking floor-to-ceiling windows, Royal Caribbean's Grandeur of the Seas is a ship with a view.

With over two acres of glass canopies, skylights and breathtaking floor-to-ceiling windows, Royal Caribbean's Grandeur of the Seas is a ship with a view. The Grandeur doesn't just look good – she carries an impressive list of facilities on board, including an outdoor pool, solarium pool with retractable roof, six whirlpools, a full service spa and a rock climbing wall. There's also a choice of formal and casual dining, eight bars and lounges, a casino and a nightclub. Royal Caribbean's Adventure Ocean® youth programme means that children from babies to teens won't get bored at sea. Click here to find out more about the Grandeur of the Seas.

Novo Park Hotel

Set in Mediterranean style gardens and sun terraces

Grandeur of the Seas

Grandeur of the Seas is a ship with a view.

Cruise itinerary

Palma De Mallorca, Spain

Barcelona, Spain

Ibiza, Spain

Cruising

Málaga, Spain

Gibraltar

Cruising

Palma De Mallorca, Spain

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This exclusive offer is limited and can only be booked by calling 01823 478305

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Click HERE to get started!

 

 

If you like the freedom to choose your own flights and accommodation separately then try our ‘Build Your Own’ search facility to pull together your ideal getaway.

With this tailor made holiday search  you can pick and mix from a wide range of airlines and hotels to create your own perfect holiday. Doing things this way means you can spread your holiday budget out exactly as you choose. For example, you might prefer to book a cheap flight from one of the low cost airlines in order to spend more on your hotel.

Some of today’s best deals - for hundreds more call 0800 408 4048

Corfu

Newcastle

7nts

06 May 2011

SC

£115pp

Algarve

Gatwick

7nts

30 Sep 2011

BB

£215pp

Costa Del Sol

Manchester

14nts

22 Apr 2011

SC

£229pp

Costa Blanca

Birmingham

7nts

13 Jul 2011

SC

£269pp

Majorca

Luton

14nts

02 Jun 2011

SC

£269pp

Costa Dorada

Gatwick

14nts

16 Apr 2011

HB

£285pp

Ibiza

East Midlands

7nts

08 Jul 2011

HB

£309pp

Turkey

Newcastle

14nts

17 May 2011

AI

£349pp

Kos

Gatwick

7nts

31 Aug 2011

AI

£409pp

Sharm El Sheikh

Stansted

14nts

24 Apr 2011

AI

£449pp

 

Search and book your holiday online

Call one of our agents on 01823 478305

Click here for help and advice

Submit your holiday enquiry here

For more information or to book call: 01823 478305

 

 

 

American Dream

Experience two of America's most glamorous cities with our unforgettable twin centre Las Vegas and Los Angeles holiday. Begin with seven nights at the landmark 3* Stratosphere Hotel on Las Vegas' world-famous strip, then take an internal flight to LA. Here, you'll spend three nights at the 3* Sportsmen's Lodge hotel on Ventura Boulevard in Studio City. Prices for this amazing ten night, two-stop holiday start from just £699 per person, including international and domestic flights and room only accommodation. This special offer can only be booked by calling 01823 478305

Las Vegas

Neon lights, late nights the highest concentration of casinos on the planet – no wonder Las Vegas is nicknamed 'Sin City'. Holidays in Las Vegas are about 24/7 entertainment, from roulette wheels to white knuckle rides, cabarets to cocktail bars. Take a tour bus along the strip to see the wacky, themed hotels, many of which pay homage to cities around the globe: Find yourself in Luxor, Paris, New York or Venice and look out for the iconic white wedding chapels. Shopping in Vegas is an attraction in itself, from the designer labels at Forum Shops in Caesar's Palace, to the high street names on sale in the enormous Fashion Show Mall. Out of the city, take a helicopter ride over the Nevada Desert and the spectacular Grand Canyon. Back in Vegas, you'll find an array of international restaurants, with enormous burgers and steaks the local speciality. After dark, there are a host of late night venues, including glossy nightclubs and stylish bars. Don't miss the dancing fountains of the Bellagio Hotel, or a ticket to the breathtaking Cirque du Soleil.

Plus for a limited time only

Exclusive Stratosphere benefits

- Free upgrade to premier view room - 2 for 1 dinner buffet

- 2 for 1 unlimited thrill ride pass (Excluding Skyjump)   - $20 Spa Credit on services over $60

Los Angeles

Beaches, boutiques and movie stars – Los Angeles is one of the world's glitziest cities. With attractions including Disneyland, Universal Studios and the celebrity Walk of Fame at Hollywood, holidays in Los Angeles are packed with plenty to do. Head to Santa Monica Beach to catch the West Coast rays, or look out for stars in glamorous Beverley Hills. Go to Little Tokyo or Chinatown for international cuisine, or enjoy fresh seafood near the beach. For designer shopping, visit upmarket Rodeo Drive, or for bargains, venture out of town and hit the discount outlets. Nightlife in LA combines upmarket cocktail bars with hip nightclubs and celebrity haunts. Holidays in Los Angeles combine beach relaxation with must-see sights and attractions, for a city break destination that's like nowhere else on earth.

Plus for a limited time only

Exclusive Sportsman's Lodge benefits

- One night free

Las Vegas Stratosphere

Topped by the highest observation tower.
More information...

Los Angeles Sportsman's Lodge

Top location on Studio City's Ventura Boulevard.
More information...

This exclusive offer is limited and can only be booked by calling 01823 478305

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What could be better than shopping in Barcelona one day and bronzing on Majorca's golden beaches the next? Or perhaps you fancy island hopping round the Caribbean, feeling the powdery white sand between your toes and scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters. Hays Travel specialise in luxury cruises with first-class accommodation, a wealth of amenities, and round the clock entertainment.

                     Overview

Whether you're seeking a Mediterranean cruise featuring ancient cities, magnificent museums and idyllic beaches or a Caribbean cruise of the tropical islands with picture-perfect beaches and cloudless skies, we offer a wide choice of cruises to suit all tastes and budgets. Our cruise liners offer the very best in cruise comfort, with luxurious health and beauty spas, state-of-the-art gyms, elegant bars, cafes, fine restaurants, and a wealth of activities including: swimming pools, tennis courts, golf simulators, mini golf, children's play areas, excellent shopping, libraries and glitzy casinos.

Whether the aim of your cruise holiday is to relax and revitalise or to try your hand at a wealth of activities, our cruises can cater to your every need. All our accommodation is spacious and comfortable with air conditioning and en-suite bathrooms. Other in-room facilities can include: TVs, radios, Internet, safes, direct-dial phones, refrigerators, minibars, tea and coffee facilities and hair dryers.

 

 

            For more details or  to book call: 01823 478305 today

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                        Caribbean Cruising

 

A cruise in the Caribbean islands is a picture-perfect paradise combining white sandy beaches, swaying palm trees, sparkling turquoise waters, tropical climates, and breathtaking sunsets. Popular destinations for Caribbean cruises include: the pretty coral island of Barbados with its British-style seaside towns, cricket games and colonial architecture; the verdant island of St Lucia with its lush mountains and dense rainforests; the stunning 870-mile golden coastline of the Dominican Republic; the 365 beaches of Antigua with its world-class scuba diving and evening entertainment; and the natural beauty of Tobago with its abundance of wildlife and traditional fishing villages.

Caribbean cruises offer an abundance of activities. Scuba diving and snorkelling are particularly popular, as the warm, crystal-clear waters are home to untouched coral reefs teeming with marine life. Swimming with dolphins is something most people only dream of, but a Caribbean cruise offers this experience of a lifetime. The islands also boast world-class championship golf courses. Sailing is massively popular, and tourists can hire sailboats and catamarans.

Caribbean cruises also feature a range of on-land excursions, including exploring ancient cities and busy ports, browsing local markets for souvenirs, and visiting an abundance of historic museums and monuments. Caribbean cuisine features curried meat dishes, freshly caught seafood, and delicious desserts with coconut, vanilla and fruit. Nightlife in the Caribbean offers something for everyone, with numerous chilled-out beach bars, rum punch, breathtaking sunsets, relaxing reggae rhythms, live shows, glitzy casinos and late night drinking and dancing.

           For more details or to book call: 01823 478305 today

 

                                    Mediterranean Cruising  

 

Cruises in the Mediterranean combine golden sandy beaches, charming harbours, picturesque fishing villages and a rich history. A cruise in the Mediterranean suits all tastes due to its diverse range of attractions, from its sun-drenched beaches to historical cities. The Mediterranean has long been a favourite destination for cruise liners. You can be browsing the designer boutiques in Barcelona one day and sipping cappuccinos in the Italian Riviera the next.

Popular destinations for Mediterranean cruises include: the cosmopolitan city of Barcelona with its Gaudi architecture, excellent shopping and vibrant nightlife; the Majorcan capital of Palma with its fine restaurants and beautiful medieval buildings; the vibrant city of Naples, set at the foot of Mount Vesuvius, with its Baroque architecture; the Renaissance city of Florence with its picturesque squares, historic churches and wealth of museums; the Greek capital of Athens with its abundance of ancient sights; the stylish Monte Carlo with its glitzy casinos and designer boutiques; the Portuguese capital of Lisbon with its Romanesque cathedral; the golden sandy beaches of the Greek Islands; and the legendary nightlife of the Balearics.

Whether you're looking for a fun-packed family break or romantic retreat, cruises in the Mediterranean appeal to everyone. Excursions combine: exploring historic cities and world-renowned landmarks, strolling along ancient streets, visiting magnificent museums, soaking up the sun on the golden sandy beaches, trying your hand at a wealth of water sports, sampling the local cuisine, haggling at local markets, and enjoying the vibrant nightlife.

         For more details or to book call: 0800 408 4229 today

 

Barely 10 miles of sparkling Mediterranean waters separate the islands of Corsica and Sardinia but despite the proximity, the two offer distinct, unique holiday experiences. One is Italian and the other is French, for a start, but the differences don’t end there.

It’s not for nothing that Corsica is known as the Island of Beauty. It’s home to a wild coastline, mountainous national parks, pine forests, fishing villages and ancient walled towns such as Calvi.

Sun seekers head south to Porte Vecchio, its hillside location overlooks a picturesque bay, and during spring and early summer, the island’s famous blanket of shrubs, maquis, is in full bloom. Corsica’s railway is another draw, covering 180 miles from lively Bastia on the east coast to seaside town Ajaccio on the west. Hikers often stop at Vizzavona village for the GR20, one of Europe’s best walking routes.

Beaches are what Sardinia does best, and holidaymakers attracted to the high-end accommodation and restaurants of the famous Costa Smeralda in the northeast find respite in the resort of Santa Teresa di Gallura. The northwest coast around Alghero offers equally alluring family-friendly white sand beaches and beyond the coast lie traditional villages, forest-covered hillsides, fine cuisine and the lively capital, Cagliari.

Other sights include Sardinia’s mystical stone fortresses, or nuraghi, which dot the island; the archaeological gems at Nuoro; medieval Bosa and the archipelago of La Maddalena.

Choosing between the two islands can be hard. Amandine Blanchard, product manager at Corsican Places and Sardinian Places, says: “Corsica is more unspoilt, greener and more mountainous, which makes it more spectacular. It’s full of character, authentic seaside resorts and has better walking opportunities.

“Sardinia has more beaches – about 240. There are more festivals on the island, a welcoming Italian feel and it’s richer in archaeological sites.” If you’re still in doubt, a number of operators offer both as part of a twin-centre break.

What’s new in Corsica?

Corsica is offered by several operators including Thomson, First Choice and Mark Warner. Specialist operator Corsican Places offers the largest accommodation options to the UK market and its collection features more than 130 products, many exclusive to them.

The majority are self-catering properties near the coast, but they also offer rural properties and hotels, with 25 new ones selected for 2011. They initially specialised in northern Corsica, but they have now expanded to the south of the island and the new brochure includes handy Beach and Family Guides.

 

New properties include the Bergerie Olivella (pictured above) and Bergerie Murtetu, part of the operator’s Premium Collection in Olmeto on the west coast. There are also family-friendly properties such as the traditional Casa Monica villa in Palavesa, outside Porto Vecchio, and Marina Serena, which consists of five modern villas, and is a short drive from Palombaggia and Porto Vecchio. New hotels include the three-star Hotel Costa Salina near Porto Vecchio’s lively harbour.

Rail specialist Ffestiniog Travel has added Corsica to its escorted programme this year with a rail tour through the island’s verdant interior, passing dramatic gorges and waterfalls. Corsica’s single-track railway, which climbs to its highest point at Vizzavona from sea level, is one of Europe’s most picturesque.

General manager Gina Warren says: “It’s an unusual way to see Corsica, offering amazing scenery, especially between Corte and Bocognano, which is part of the tour.” The operator also offers tailor-made rail journeys in Corsica.

What’s new in Sardinia?

Hilton made its Sardinian debut last year with the opening of the Doubletree by Hilton Olbia-Sardini in the northeastern Gallura region, close to Olbia’s historic port. Its leisure amenities include a heated outdoor pool, spa and links to the Robert Trent Jones-designed Pevero Golf Club. Opening in April, La Maddalena Hotel & Yacht Club is in the national park archipelago between Sardinia and Corsica.

This summer will also see the return of the Austin Healey and Will Greenwood Rugby Academy at the family-friendly Forte Village Resort after it launched last year. This complements the Chelsea Soccer School and Five-Star Tennis Academy.

Specialist operator Sardinian Places, specialising in northeast/northwest Sardinia, launched its new brochure in January, featuring nine new properties. While the focus remains on detached countryside villas with private grounds and a pool within easy driving distance of the coast, it is expanding to seafront properties. New this year is the Residence Riva Azzurra, a 21-apartment beachside complex in Cannigione. Plus, for the first time, the brochure features package prices alongside accommodation-only prices.

In addition to these, the operator added two more properties in late February. Both Villa Pineta, a three-bedroom property sleeping six, and Villa Le Saline, a converted three-bedroom traditional-style Sardinian farm-house with a pool, sleeping six, are located in the northeast.

Cresta Holidays has also expanded its Sardinian portfolio, adding five new hotels near the resorts of Palau and Isola Rossa in the north, in addition to those in Baia Sardinia and Porto Cervo. The selection includes self-catering Lantana Residence, Forte Village Resort, and resort and spa properties such as the Pullman Timi Ama, and Valle dell’Erica Resort Thalasso & Spa.

Family specialist Mark Warner has added the traditional, family-run Hotel Perdepera, where half of the 120 rooms are now reserved for Mark Warner guests. New properties in Sardinian specialist Sardatur’s latest, 100-page brochure include the re-opened Monteturri Resort Relais on the east coast and the new Casai Resort on the southwest’s ‘island within the island’ Sant’Antioco.

Managing director Gianni Bonuglia says: “With more flights and accommodation available, Sardinia is ideal for a family holiday; romantic getaway; culinary, historical or cultural tour; or to relax.” The lead-in brochure price is £430 for a seven-night stay at Riviera Hotel in San Pietro in May including return flights to Cagliari, bed-and-breakfast accommodation and transfers.

Other companies featuring the island include Just Sardinia, which sells about 10%-15% of its product through the trade. New this year is the Residence Riva Azzurra. Kirker Holidays, whose options includes the Superior Su Gologone near Gennargentu National Park. Kirker can also arrange tailor-made holidays to both Sardinia and Corsica.

Getting there

With more low-cost airlines flying to Corsica, access has become easier. Last summer Corsican Places launched a new weekly charter flight from Stansted to Calvi, with Ryanair adding a service from Stansted to Figari, on the southern tip of Corsica and Bmibaby adding summer-only flights to Bastia from East Midlands.

Low-cost and charter flights have also been key to Sardinia’s success. Ryanair’s routes to Alghero and Cagliari are well established and in May 2010 Bmibaby launched summer-only flights to Alghero from East Midlands airport, with easyJet launching a Stansted-Cagliari service.

Having enjoyed great success with its British Airways chartered flights from Heathrow, Edinburgh and Manchester to Cagliari, Sardatur is launching a new weekly Heathrow-Olbia flight for the summer starting on May 21. Sardatur’s Gianni Bonuglia says: “This will considerably open up the market to the north/northeast region, making it more accessible and affordable to the British market.”

Ahead of the move, Sardatur has added 12 new properties, ranging from self-catering villas to five-star deluxe hotels.

Sample product

Corsican Places offers seven nights at Casa Anna, a two-bedroom apartment in Calvi Citadel from £349, based on four sharing. Price includes return flights from Stansted to Calvi, taxes and transfers, an early booking offer discount of £50 per person and is based on May 22 departures.

Cresta Holidays has a seven-night half-board package based on two sharing at the Resort Le Dune & Spa at Badesi Mare near Isola Rossa, Sardinia from £539. Price includes flights from Gatwick to Olbia with easyJet, an early booking discount and is based on departures from May 14-June 17.

source: www.travelweekly.co.uk

 

Big and brash it may be, but the resort of Marmaris is steadily reinventing itself.

When it comes to big holiday resort towns in Turkey, Marmaris still flexes its muscles with the best of them. It was one of the first areas that Brits started visiting in Turkey and over the years it has grown from a small resort on the Turquoise Coast to a massive, extremely popular holiday spot, running the gamut from cheap and cheerful hotels to luxury, upmarket properties.

The resort still works well for clients on a budget or those sore from the bloated euro, not least as the fierce competition among the bars and restaurants helps to keep the prices down. Looking ahead, the challenge now is for the resort to raise the quality of what’s on offer while maintaining its reputation for delivering value-for-money that keeps its loyal customers coming back year after year.

Keep the change

Progress is being made. “The region is working hard to change its image,” says Vanessa Freeman, product manager for Turkey at Thomas Cook. “The whole beachfront was knocked down and rebuilt last year to try to improve the look of the area.”

There are also more five-star hotels in the region now, while a couple of others are being renovated, such as the Ideal Prime. This is helping to raise the overall calibre of accommodation away from the traditional self-catering apartments that were once the mainstay of holidaymakers here.

The season for Marmaris is also lengthening, with resorts now open from April to October, and tour operators offering multiple flying days to Dalaman, giving greater flexibility.

Strength and depth

Gemma Carroll, product manager for Turkey at Cosmos, says the tourism product is now very well developed. “Marmaris is more than just a busy resort full of nightlife,” she says. “It really does have layers and depth that are waiting to be explored.”

The point is echoed by Joe Lavers, sales director at Holidays4U. “There are a lot of people who are drawn to Marmaris because it’s so lively. Families that want a quieter time for most of their holiday, but like visiting the action occasionally, have plenty of options too.”

Hotels offer a wide choice of excursions from mud baths or authentic Turkish nights with belly dancing to gulet cruises – the name for traditional wooden yachts. Attraction World has added 22 new tours in the area this year.

It is also a popular base for sailing holidays and there’s still a touch of Riviera-chic here with luxury yachts moored in the Netsel Marina, which Freeman believes can compete with any of the more famous resorts in Europe. This is the reason why Neilson is adding a new property to its portfolio when it offers up the Beachplus Club Adakoy in May, with packages that include sailing, waterskiing, windsurfing and kayaking. 

Pip Tyler, overseas director at Neilson Active Holidays, says: “We ordered 24 yachts this winter. The first are coming out of the French yard as we speak, and a number will sail onto Turkey and Adakoy ready to start work in May.”

Quiet time

As Marmaris’s crescent beach has got busier so people have moved out in to the surrounding area.

There is now increased demand and availability at more peaceful resorts, with tour operators such as Cosmos boosting their offerings on the edge of town. 

Nicky Shafe, marketing manager at Prestige Holidays comments: “Our clients are more interested in staying outside of Marmaris as the centre is very busy. For this reason, we opted to include a beautiful property just outside called the D-Hotel Maris.” 

Similarly, Photis Lambrianides, commercial director, Olympic Holidays, says: “Quieter properties away from the centre of the resort appeal to older clients, so they are now an important part of our product mix.”

Family friendly

In recent times those visitors wanting a relaxed or more family-friendly atmosphere have been heading to the Armutalen area. There are now a number of hotels and self-catering units with a few shops and restaurants that give this suburb a small village feel – clients won’t feel as if they are staying in a large, lively resort.

Other satellite spots include Siteler along the coast, which also has some quality properties, while the area between Marmaris and Icmeler has a number of hotels that are far enough away from the madding crowds, yet are still close enough to the action via a short minibus or dolmus ride.

Smaller resorts such as Turunc, which is very close to Marmaris as the crow flies, are increasingly popular. Turunc is separated by mountains and therefore offers a totally different experience to the larger Marmaris. This year Thomas Cook has added the Turunc Hotel, which has its own water park.

“Any agent selling Marmaris should certainly add Turunc to their portfolio as it gives consumers a very different alternative but still within the region and still within easy reach of Dalaman airport,” says Anatolian Sky’s managing director Akin Koc.

“Turunc is a fabulous resort that offers a slightly more traditional holiday than those found in nearby Marmaris. Customers can not only get a feel for the real Turkey but also do so in a far more relaxed and tranquil resort.”

Increasingly holidaymakers are also visiting Datca. This unspoilt rugged promontory at the southwest tip offers a real getaway from the hustle and bustle of Marmaris. This is one of the reasons why Exclusive Escapes is now featuring Mehmet Ali Aga Mansion, a museum-hotel, for 2011, located in a working village just outside the peninsula.

A seven-night twin-centre option, combining the property with nights at the Dionysos Estate, costs from £850, including flights.

Other options on the peninsula include a week’s stay at D-Hotel Maris, from £667 in May through Prestige Holidays, including flights from Gatwick.

 

Local hot spots

Ephesus, for long the second-largest city of the Roman Empire, is Turkey’s most spectacular ancient city and is readily accessible as a day trip from Marmaris. The World Heritage town of Pamukkale, famous for its hot springs, is also easy to visit.

Laid back Calis Beach has two and a half miles of shingle fringed by restaurants and is a beautiful spot to watch the sun set.

Icmeler, lying in a sheltered bay, is ideal for water sports. It’s a cosmopolitan resort with a strong European flavour and lifestyle and its curved beach is framed by stylish hotels.
Dalyan is a small charming town in an environmental conservation area that oozes natural beauty and historical interest. The Dalyan river winds past the ancient Rock tombs to the sea

Sample product

A seven-night self-catering break in early May at the two-star Golden Orange apartments in the Armutalen area costs from £212 with Holidays 4U, including flights from Gatwick.

Seven nights’ all-inclusive at the Hotel Club Viva with Cosmos Holidays costs from £299 in early May, including flights from Manchester to Dalaman.

Olympic Holidays offers seven nights’ half-board at the five-star Maritim Hotel Grand Azur in Marmaris in October from £479, including flights from Gatwick.

Thomas Cook MyStyle has seven nights at the five-star Hotel Marti in Icmeler on half-board basis from £489 in May, including flights from Gatwick.

source: www.travelweekly.co.uk

 

 

Prices starting from as little as £109pp*

*Offer departing 03/05/11 from Stansted

Holidays in Ibiza are known as a paradise for hedonistic sun-seekers. While it is true that Ibiza is best known for its hardcore party culture, the island is also home to fine white sandy beaches, beautiful architecture, wild countryside, rolling olive groves, wooded hillsides and hidden coves.

Overview:

Holidays in Ibiza offer a choice of more than 60 beautiful beaches. Some of the most popular beaches include the lively Figueretes, Playa Den Bossa and pretty pine-fringed sands of Cala Bassa. Those seeking a quiet escape can head to Es Cana , Cala Llonga or Santa Eulalia , all of which are particularly popular with families and couples.

Holidays in Ibiza offer a wealth of attractions, with water sports, luxurious golf courses, water parks, boat trips, cave excursions, and hiking and biking trails. The island's capital, Ibiza Town boasts a picturesque fortified old quarter with pretty cobbled streets, whitewashed Spanish architecture, a striking 13th-century cathedral and numerous street cafes. Visitors can while away afternoons enjoying a coffee next to the harbour, visiting the galleries and museums or browsing chic boutiques and market stalls.

At night, Ibiza Town comes alive with pulsating bars and nightclubs. The resorts of Ibiza Town and San Antonio are the liveliest and home to world-renowned clubs, including Pacha, Privilege and El Paradis. Ibiza boasts an unrivalled reputation for nightlife, in particular the dance scene. Young partygoers flock to the island to soak up the exhilarating atmosphere, hear big-name DJs, drink in the buzzing bars, and dance in the booming nightclubs.

Suitable for

Families:

Couples:

Honeymoons:

Young & Lively:

 

For more details or to book call: 0182 347 8305 today

The ancient Greek Mycenaeans knew a thing or two when they landed in Cyprus in the Bronze Age and built the settlement of Paleokastro on the northwest headland of Coral Bay.

Thousands of years on it’s still waiting to be discovered by many tourists heading for the larger and better-known resorts on the south and west Cypriot coastline. But with one of the island’s best beaches, and situated just 30 minutes from Paphos airport, Coral Bay is as accessible as it is attractive.

In 2009, a new airport link bus was launched, making it cheaper for visitors without transfers to reach Coral Bay. The eight-mile drive north of bustling Paphos on the south-western coastline takes visitors through banana plantations and vineyards, setting the scene for Coral Bay’s laid-back charms.

With its safe bathing and nightlife more suited to mature types than party animals, it’s a good choice for families. The flagship Coral Beach Hotel & Resort is the first and only five-star property on the island to offer a family plan. There are a selection of rooms, some inter-connecting, to accommodate two adults and up to three youngsters on an all-inclusive basis, plus a children’s restaurant with optional early meals and daytime entertainment programme.

While it doesn’t have the historic interest of nearby Paphos, Coral Bay is an ideal base to explore the rest of Cyprus and there are plenty of attractions and activities nearby served by a regular bus service.

For clients needing some rest and relaxation the beach is an obvious draw and there are some excellent spa hotels. Coral Bay also has a good selection of restaurants and local shops making it an attractive option for self-caterers who want to go it alone in a villa.

 

Families

The classic horseshoe-shaped beach is set in the natural bay protected by two headlands and is widely considered to be the finest on the island. Perfect for swimming and sunbathing, the soft golden sand leads to the shallow sea edge, making it very safe for children.

The beach has earned a European Blue Flag for its facilities, water quality and cleanliness and there are lifeguards on duty during the main season. Pedaloes, banana boats, water skis, jet skis and windsurfing provide fun for all age groups.

A popular family attraction close to Coral Bay is the Pafos Bird and Animal Park, the only one of its kind on the island. Open year-round, it’s home to a large collection of birds and there are daily parrot and owl shows in the 350-seat air-conditioned amphitheatre.

The Coral Beach Hotel & Resort (pictured) operates a crèche and children’s club for hotel guests and the facilities are also open to non-residents on a chargeable basis.

Active

One of the major attractions of Coral Bay is its diving. There are several dive companies in the area and everyone from beginners to seasoned divers are catered for.

First-timers can take the plunge with a dive around the Coral Bay harbour wall and Manijin Island, with its spectacular cave, which is just a 10-minute boat ride away. The entrance to Akamas National Park offers fantastic underwater scenery and experienced divers can go on a day trip to the wreck of Zenobia, one of the world’s largest wreck dive sites.

Back on dry land the Akamas peninsula is a beautiful part of the island to swim, cycle and walk. For clients who want to move up a gear, Coral Bay Karting has adult and kiddy karts and horse riding is available near Coral Bay.

 

Spa

For couples and spa enthusiasts the area has some notable boutique properties. Anagenisis, the spa at the Thalassa Boutique Hotel & Spa, was the first holistic spa in Cyprus. Overlooking Coral Bay, and with rooms and suites named after Greek gods and goddesses, spa treatments are geared to soothe the mind, body and soul.

On the road to Coral Bay is the Azia Resort and Spa, a three-in-one boutique hotel featuring three properties with distinctive characteristics on the same site. One is the Club and Spa, which is perfect for privacy and pampering.

This hotel also boasts another first for the island, a butler allocated to every suite from a superior suite upwards. And at Esthisis, the spa at Coral Beach Hotel & Resort, there’s a new romantic candlelit body massage for two in the outdoor Roman tent.

 

 

Excursions

Just outside Coral Bay are the Adonis Baths, a natural pool beside a waterfall and restored watermill. According to Greek mythology, this is where the goddess of love Aphrodite frolicked in the waters with Adonis. It’s worth the climb to reach the baths and many visitors go for a dip as legend has it that swimming in the baths makes women beautiful and men stronger.

A top attraction is the Unesco-listed Kato-Paphos Archaeological Park at Paphos, famous for its Roman mosaics and the Tombs of the Kings burial site. Coral Bay is also a good base for exploring the northern coastline, with its coves and isolated beaches, and protected turtle nesting ground at Cape Lara.

Other day trips can take in the mountain monasteries of Ayios Neophytos and Chrysoroyiatissa and hillside villages of Peyia and Yeroskipou with their traditional tavernas and panoramic views.

 

source: www.travelweekly.co.uk