Escape by Advantage Travel Centres

Summer 2009

happy camper hitting the open roads of Oz

double up twin- and multi-centre holidays

time to

relax

exclusive offers inside

ho lid W or ay IN Au to ! st Ma ra la lia ys ia

late getaways, safaris, theme parks, watersports, city breaks and more...

Exclusive to Advantage 12 night Canaries cruise on board Boudicca Departing 06 December 2009 Prices from

£889

Escape the Winter for some time in the sunshine and welcoming waters around the colourful Canary Islands, without the hassle of ﬂying and baggage limitations.

PLUS £75 per cabin

on board spend

Boudicca is equipped with extensive facilities including 2 outdoor pools, jacuzzis; 4 restaurants, alfresco dining; library; ﬁtness centre; beauty salon; roulette and black jack tables and of course you can’t forget the legendary Fred. Olsen service.

Portsmouth | Funchal (Madeira) | San Sebastian (La Gomera) | Santa Cruz (Tenerife) Las Palmas (Gran Canaria) | Lisbon (Portugal) | Portsmouth Prices quoted are per person based on two adults sharing the lowest grade cabin and are subject to availability. Offer cannot be claimed retrospectively or combined with any other offer. Fred. Olsen’s terms and conditions apply. Offer is subject to availability and can be withdrawn or amended at any time, without prior notice. Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines reserves the right to amend itineraries and other arrangements for operational reasons. Errors and omission excluded.

For more information and to book call Advantage FREE on 0800 215 5909

EXCLUSIVE OFFER FROM Choose one of these great shows:

and get a 3-course meal at no additional cost from £52.50 per person! For more information and to book call Advantage FREE on

0800 215 5912

Various booking periods and validity periods apply. Terms & conditions apply. Prices/offers subject to change/availability

contents escape

Summer 2009

CONTENTS what

4 introducing... Advantage, Specialists in Travel 6 world view Luxury for less in the Maldives 9 make a date Hot summer events 10 around the world Headlines from across the globe

where

15 30

12 snapshots Top city breaks 15 a weekend for... Spa goers in Lake Geneva 18 summer hotspots Top 10 late getaways 22 tastebuds Moreish Morocco 25 tailormade Get more for your money with a twin- or multi-centre holiday 30 making waves New ships, short trips 32 notebook Happy camping in Australia 36 special interest Get wet and wild this summer

COVER IMAGE: GETTY

why 38 spotlight African safaris 42 experience Theme parks and holiday thrills 45 travel spy Onboard two great train journeys 49 travel clinic Your travel queries answered 50 competition Win a holiday to Malaysia!

38 escape with Advantage 3

escape Advantage

INTRODUCING...

WHO ARE ADVANTAGE? Advantage has been established for over 30 years and has more than 700 independent travel agents nationwide, from Inverness to St. Ives and Belfast to Brighton. With a wealth of experience and knowledge, providing a friendly, face-to-face service, our agents can help ﬁnd the holiday that's right for you. We have access to a wide range of holiday companies and can also dispel the myth that online holidays are cheaper.

needs, providing you with the beneﬁts of great choice, competitive pricing and knowledgeable staff; enabling you to book the holiday you want, with all the optional extras that’ll help make your trip just that bit more memorable. WHAT ELSE? Don't forget many of the prices and offers within this magazine are exclusive so are only available through Advantage travel agents. Plus, call any of the phone numbers featured and you won't be charged a penny.** Let us take care of your holiday so you can sit back, relax — all you'll need to do is pack! *Participating travel agents only. Enquire on booking. **Calls may not be free from mobiles. Check with your service provider.

IMAGE: ISTOCKPHOTO

WHY BOOK WITH ADVANTAGE? Our agents are not tied in to any one holiday company and so can offer a huge choice of holiday options:  Package holidays: available with all the top holiday companies

 Specialist holidays: tailor holidays to your speciﬁc needs and requirements  Worldwide hotels: no destination is too near or too far  Flights: any airline, anywhere, with a choice of value-for-money options or ﬁrst class all the way  Attractions and sightseeing: book before you go, save money and avoid disappointment  Airport hotels: avoid that early morning start and begin your holiday stress free  Airport parking: combine parking with your hotel or book it on its own  Foreign currency* With such a breadth of choice, Advantage agents really are a one-stop shop for all of your travel

4 escape with Advantage

welcome escape

Summer 2009

WELCOME Advantage 21 Provost Street London N1 7NH Chief Executive: John McEwan Marketing Executive, Leisure: Annette Sherrard Marketing Communications Executive: Emma Smith escape is published on behalf of Advantage by Absolute Publishing Ltd Editorial Director: Maria Pieri Editor: Chris Peacock Senior Editor: Katie Reich-Storer Contributing Editors: Alex Dalzell, Jo Gardner, Kellie Smith, Pat Riddell, Sam Lewis, Sonia Soltani Sub Editor: Brian Richards Art Editor: Chris Hudson Production Manager: Adam Smith Production Controller: Gemma Bruce Sales Director: Matthew Midworth Chief Executive: Anthony Leyens Managing Director: Matthew Jackson Publisher: Peter Levinger Ofﬁce Manager: Carly Bell Ofﬁce Assistant: Corinne Pickup Financial Controller: Taurai Mangezi Credit Control Manager: Craig Chappell Credit Control Assistant: Siobhan Grover

Absolute Publishing Ltd 197-199 City Road London EC1V 1JN Editorial Tel: 020 7253 9906 Email: editorial@absolutepublishing.com Sales/Admin Tel: 020 7253 9909 Sales/Admin Fax: 020 7253 9907 Email: sales@absolutepublishing.com Advantage travel agents are agents for ATOL protected operators. Prices are correct at the time of going to print (May 2009) and subject to availability. Tour operators’ terms and conditions apply. The entire contents are protected by copyright and all rights are reserved. Reproduction of this magazine in whole or part is not permitted without written permission. The views expressed in the magazine are not necessarily the views of Advantage or the publisher. Whilst care has been taken to avoid inaccuracy, no responsibility can be taken for errors or omissions.

SUMMER IS OFFICIALLY here and if all the weather geek’s predictions ring true it looks set to be an absolute scorcher. If you haven’t yet booked your holiday, don’t panic, there are still plenty of options for you to choose from, be it in the UK or overseas. Check out our choice of top 10 late  It’s never too getaways (p.18) for inspiration. late to get your If you’re looking to try something hands on a last different this year, read our twinminute holiday and multi-centre feature (p.25) to to chase the ﬁnd out how you can combine two or sun. Check more destinations into one holiday. out our top 10 Doubling up on countries can mean late getaways double the memories. Short on time? A spa weekend in Lake Geneva (p.15) could be for you and if you’re a city slicker, head to our snapshots pages (p.12) for a rundown of what to do downtown in cities across the world. But if it’s the great outdoors you’re craving, the open road of Oz (p.32) could prove just the trick while our choice of safaris (p.38) is sure to get you packing those binoculars. To top it all off, we reveal the best places to get wet and wild for watersports this summer (p.36) and the biggest theme parks for all the family (p.42). Congratulations to Mrs Susan Marsden from Somerset who was the lucky winner of our spring issue West End Theatre Break competition. Why not enter this issue’s competition (p.50). Good luck! Feel free to drop me a line to share your views of the magazine at escape@absolutepublishing.com  Chris Peacock Editor

escapeONLINE Read escape wherever you are. Find our online magazine at www.loveyourtravelagent.com

escape with Advantage 5

what world view

luxury for less

PICTURE THIS. TRANQUIL, emerald waters stretching far into the distance dotted with sugar-white, sand islands. You’re whisked away by private boat to your chosen resort for some unadulterated indulgence, where the hardest decision of your day is going for another swim or kicking back with a few cocktails. Welcome to the Maldives, an archipelago of over a thousand islands scattered in the Indian Ocean, with a long-held reputation for

6 escape with Advantage

Synonymous with exclusive ﬁve-star luxury, the Maldives is opening up to everyone, says Chris Peacock

offering incomparable luxury and exclusivity — the majority of resorts are situated on their own private islands. Catering for the rich and famous — Tom Cruise and Madonna have holidayed here over the years — with ﬁve-star resorts galore, you might think the Maldives simply out of your league. Good news though: the new man in charge — president Mohamed Nasheed — is looking to make the islands more affordable with plans to develop the country’s mid-range market of hotels and resorts.

Nasheed, who’s already been called the ‘Obama of the Indian Ocean’ said: “The average British person should be able to come to enjoy the Maldives and see the sun, the sea and the sand.” Eventually it’s believed locals will beneﬁt through more jobs with money ploughed back into eco-projects and preservation work, while more visitors will mean a greater understanding of Maldivian culture and heritage. Soon you could be getting luxury for less...

IMAGE: PHOTOLIBRARY

world view what

escape with Advantage: for more information on the Maldives call FREE on 0800 215 5923 or visit www.loveyourtravelagent.com

escape with Advantage 7

ATLANTIS, THE PALM DUBAI from £679pp A 5 Star hotel with 42 acres of thrilling water slides, river rides, plunges and pools and 65,000 marine animals swimming amid ancient Atlantean ruins.

THIS EXCLUSIVE PRICE FOR ADVANTAGE’S CUSTOMERS INCLUDES: • 3 nights accommodation at the 5 Star Atlantis, The Palm • Return flights with Emirates • Daily breakfast PLUS • Complimentary entry to the exclusive Sanctuary nightclub • Preferential prices on dolphin play at Dolphin Bay • Unlimited access to Aquaventure and The Lost Chambers

For more information and to book call Advantage FREE on 0800 215 5905 Terms & Conditions: Prices are per person based on twin share. Price includes return Economy Class flights, 3 nights accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis as specified and pre-payable taxes. Valid for departures from London Gatwick, from 07 Jun - 15 Jul 09. Regional departures are available at an extra supplement, please ask at time of booking. Book by 14 Jul 09. Subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply. Prices correct at time of print.

make a date what

make a [date]

[16-19]

Alex Dalzell tracks down the hottest events this summer...

JULY BRITISH OPEN

The oldest of the four major golf championships and one of the world’s most prestigious competitions. This year, Tiger Woods and co. will be battling it out on the par-70 Turnberry golf course in Scotland for a share of the generous £4 million prize pot.

[23]

JULY — 4 AUGUST ANTIGUA CARNIVAL The colourful parades, the Miss Antigua Pageant and the Caribbean Queen Competition are just a few highlights here. But it’s the sunrise J’ouvert Carnival that shouldn’t be missed — it’s surprising how good rum punch tastes in the morning!

[7-9] AUGUST BERLIN BEER FESTIVAL Can’t wait for Oktoberfest? Then how about drinking in the world’s longest beer garden — 1,600 metres to be precise. Berlin’s annual beer festival attracts around a million punters with over a mile of stalls offering the ﬁnest beer from across Germany.

[14] AUGUST — 6 SEPTEMBER EDINBURGH INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL For three weeks this summer, theatre companies and upcoming acts the world over descend on the Scottish capital. Pretty much any space that can hold seats and a stage is turned into a venue with the city buzzing with energy 24/7.

IMAGES: BRITAINONVIEW; GERMAN NATIONAL TOURIST OFFICE; SPANISH TOURIST BOARD

[26] AUGUST LA TOMATINA On the last Wednesday of August around 40,000 people from all over the world come to chuck tomatoes in the Spanish town of Bunol, 40km west of Valencia. Why? Well, in theory to honour the town’s patron saint, but in practice we think it’s for the sheer thrill of lobbing several hundred tonnes of squishy fruit at complete and utter strangers!

escape with Advantage: travel to all these top destinations by calling FREE on 0800 215 5923 or visit www.loveyourtravelagent.com

escape with Advantage 9

what around the world

Kellie Smith searches the globe for travel headlines

EUROPE Fancy sailing around the Med or the Baltics to taste wine and tuck into tasty food? Then hop aboard a Crystal Cruise and take a Crystal Adventures culinary shore excursion, introduced this year. Enjoy a hosted dinner in a Bordeaux chateau, wine tasting with a four-course lunch at a Sorrento farmhouse, or sign up for cooking lessons in Lisbon. Back on board, the good living continues with an eclectic wine cellar and speciality restaurants featuring signature dishes from Nobu Matsuhisa and Piero Selvaggio.

AFRICA Now’s the perfect time to head to Kenya as the wildebeest migration season gets underway. From July to October, nearly 1.5 million animals head for the pastures of the Masai Mara. Get your camera lens ready as wildebeest and zebra battle the raging currents of the Mara River — and the submerged snapping crocodiles — to reach the lush vegetation on the other side.

USA If adrenalin-pumping theme park rides are your thing, head over to the States to experience one of this year’s hottest new attractions. the Hollywood Rip, Ride & Rockit rollercoaster at Universal Orlando. Rising 167ft into the air before plunging riders through crazy loops and corkscrew turns, the wow factor is its personalised touch, allowing you to choose your own music during the ride for a customised take-home video. Add some funky sight and sound options and you have a roller coaster experience like no other. Intrigued? We certainly are... 10 escape with Advantage

IMAGES: ISTOCKPHOTO; DUBAI DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM &

around the world

around the world what

ASIA IMAGES: ISTOCKPHOTO; DUBAI DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM & COMMERCE MARKETING; KENYA TOURIST BOARD; TAIWAN TOURISM BOARD; UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT

As the far eastern island of Taiwan gears up to host two major summer sporting events, why not look to holidaying somewhere different this year. The World Games, under the patronage of the International Olympic Committee, kicks off in Kaohsiung on 16 July, featuring non-Olympic sports such as orienteering, water-skiing and squash. The island also hosts the 21st Summer Deaﬂympics in the capital Taipei (5-15 September), showcasing sports such as basketball, beach volleyball, wrestling and athletics.

MIDDLE EAST Dubai continues to astound the world, with the widely anticipated completion of Burj Dubai — the world’s tallest building — on schedule to open on 9 September 2009. As well as housing luxury hotels and apartments, the building will feature an impressive public viewing tower. And surrounding it, Downtown Burj Dubai will be the site of the new Dubai Fountain — an incredible water feature spanning the length of two football ﬁelds! Dubai’s new metro system also opens in September, making it easier to see the city’s attractions.

NEW ZEALAND Bird twitchers will be happy to hear that after a 100-year absence, one of New Zealand’s nationally endangered bird species — the South Island tieke or saddleback — has found its way home to South Island’s mainland. A population of 40 birds have been released into the Orokonui Ecosanctuary, one of New Zealand’s newest wildlife projects. Orokonui hopes to reintroduce other species including kiwi. Clockwise from left: Universal Orlando; grapes in the sun; Taipei at sunset; the Burj Dubai; kiwi crossing

escape with Advantage: for more details on all these fantastic regions, call FREE on 0800 215 5923 or visit www.loveyourtravelagent.com

sign; migrating wildebeest escape with Advantage 11

where snapshots

snap//shots

Jeannine Williamson puts the spotlight on top city breaks around the world

venice//for romance  Why: The watery city home of gondoliers, the Grand Canal, Bridge of Sighs and St Mark’s Square has been a legendary destination for centuries.  Stay: Overlooking the Grand Canal, Hotel Principe is perfectly placed for discovering Venice by foot or by water on a vaporetto. The 11-room Feel Inn is a cosy, aﬀordable property in Campalto, 15 minutes outside Venice.  See: Start with St Mark’s, the

london//for attractions  Why: One of the world’s most visited capital cities, London is packed with bags of royalty, pageantry and history. And with more than 200 free attractions, you can see a lot for very little.

the Changing of the Guard takes place at 11.30am every day. After other classic photo opportunities, such as Big Ben and Tower Bridge, head for Covent Garden, packed with shops and cafes.

 Stay: In a leafy riverside spot,

 Eat: The rooftop OXO Tower restaurant, brasserie and bar serve up great food and enviable views in equal measure.

the bright and airy Chiswick Moran Hotel is quiet and close to the Underground. But Bayswater’s good value Byron Hotel, originally two Victorian houses, is a great location for exploring.  See: Buckingham Palace, the

Queen’s oﬃcial residence, where 12 escape with Advantage

 Hot spot: The buzzing South

Bank is home to iconic attractions such as the London Eye, along with galleries, theatres and al fresco bars overlooking the Thames.

grandest square in Venice. It’s dominated by the Basilica of the same name and the Doges’ Palace, where Venetian rulers lived from the ninth century. Then stroll along the Grand Canal, with its famous Rialto Bridge and shops.  Eat: A hop from St Mark’s Square, Restaurant Al Giardinetto has been serving traditional Venetian cuisine for over 50 years.  Hot spot: Venice is a city made for wandering (and getting lost in), but art lovers should head to the Accademia Gallery, packed with breathtaking European art treasures on a grand scale.

snapshots where

next next//time...  EDINBURGH Writer Robert Louis Stevenson said: “Edinburgh is what Paris ought to be.” Discover its mix of medieval lanes, elegant terraces and imposing castle alongside a surprisingly modern and dynamic city.

IMAGES: BRITAINONVIEW; ISTOCKPHOTO

From left: the Lon don Eye; mask in Venice; taxi s on Fifth Avenue; Tallinn sky line

 KRAKOW

new york//for shopping

tallinn//for history

 Why: From nights on Broadway to the towering architectural landmarks of Manhattan, few cities conjure up such an evocative image. New York is the stuﬀ of dreams, movies and surely one of the world’s most exciting cities.

 Why: Estonia’s capital is an incredibly stylish city, with one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval Old Towns and fairytale architecture reﬂecting Tallinn’s Golden Age between the 15th and 16th centuries.

 Stay: SoHo takes its name from SOuth of HOuston Street, with the SoHo Grand a cool and sophisticated retreat. Meanwhile, be it bunk beds or themed suites, the eclectic Gershwin Hotel oﬀers rooms to suit all budgets.

 Stay: The four-star ﬂagship of the Meriton group, the Meriton Grand occupies a prime location overlooking the historic city wall. The reasonably priced City Hotel Portus is also within easy walking distance of the main sights.

 See: Top of the list is the Statue

 See: Pass through the Viru

of Liberty, one of the world’s ﬁ nest icons, and the equally seminal art deco Empire State Building. Next, draw breath in Central Park, before heading to Times Square to enjoy a taste of the Big Apple by night.

Gates to the Old Town for ornate houses and magniﬁcent churches. Then climb the steps of the 13thcentury St Olav’s Church, once the world’s tallest building, for rewarding panoramic views.

 Eat: The award-winning Union Square Cafe serves seasonal American food with a distinctly Italian soul.

 Eat: Go medieval with food and entertainment from the Middle Ages at Olde Hansa, inside a former merchant’s house.

 Hot spot: Shop ’til you drop, or simply people watch, on Fifth Avenue and Madison Avenue, where shop front names read like a ‘who’s who’ of fashion greats.

 Hot spot: The square in front of Tallinn’s Town Hall has been a focal point for centuries and today it’s home to outdoor cafes, markets and open-air concerts.

Poland’s ancient royal capital until 1596, Krakow has a UNESCO-listed Old Town with Europe’s largest market square, jaw-droppingly beautiful buildings and a Gothic cathedral that’s the burial place of kings.

 BUDAPEST Divided by the Danube and built on thermal springs, Budapest is the only capital city in the world that’s also a major spa town. Grand Hungarian boulevards and majestic buildings contrast with quaint cobbled streets.

 TORONTO From the glass ﬂoor observation deck of the world’s highest public building, CN Tower, to the natural wonder of Niagara Falls, less than two hours’ drive away, Canada’s largest city offers plenty of amazing sights to wow you.

 SINGAPORE It may be small, covering just 240sq miles, but south-east Asia’s ultra-safe garden city packs a punch with stunning temples, colourful tropical parks, a colonial heritage and great shopping malls.

escape with Advantage: for further details on all these top city breaks, call FREE on 0800 215 5923 or visit www.loveyourtravelagent.com

escape with Advantage 13

E X C LU S I V E to Advantage Customers – COMPLIMENTARY DINNER FOR T WO AT YOUR HOTEL IN CYPRUS FLY TO

CYPRUS

FROM YOUR LOCAL AIRPORT USING SCHEDULED CHARTER & “NO-FRILLS” FLIGHTS FOR INFO & TO BOOK CALL:

PLUS FREE car hire for Winter 2009 -10 holidays ask your Advantage Agent for more info

0800 215 5914

Terms and conditions apply. Offers applicable to selected winter 2009/10 departure dates. Free meal subject to two adults sharing a standard room for a minimum of 7 nights. Subject to availability.

91202952

891

V5573

SAIL FROM SOUTHAMPTON ONBOARD INDEPENDENCE OF THE SEAS IN 2010 10 night Canary Islands

FROM £899pp* Plus, receive $50†† per stateroom onboard spend exclusive to Advantage customers.

E SUPATOV£T2E0R0OOM **

† REE TF GE RKING D AN R PA CA

PER

STA

For more information and to book call Advantage FREE on 0800 215 5907 * Price is per person based on two people sharing a category Q Interior Stateroom departing Southampton on 25 April 2010 (cruise only). Price subject to increase/withdrawal at any time & subject to availability. **Save up to £200 per stateroom offer is £100pp (maximum saving £200 per stateroom) for new bookings created & confirmed by 31 July 2009 & applicable to selected Independence of the Seas sailings departing Southampton in 2010. Savings are included in the price featured. † Free car parking at Southampton is applicable to new bookings created & confirmed by 31 July 2009 & must be booked by 31 December 2009, one free car parking space per booking, subject to availability. Free car parking and the save up to £200 offer applicable to sailings of 10 nights or more excluding transatlantic sailings. ††Onboard spend applicable to new bookings created & confirmed by 30 June 2009 & applicable to bookings for the Independence of the Seas 25 April 2010 departure, only when booked through Advantage. Terms & conditions apply.

a weekend for... where

a w e ekend for... SPA GOERS IN LAKE GENEVA

Crisp, clean air, laid-back activities and top-of-the-range spas make Lake Geneva a hit for a relaxing weekend break, says Leo Bear — and then there’s the Swiss chocolate... LAKE GENEVA HAS long been regarded as one of the world’s best spa destinations by virtue of its cutting edge treatments and expert therapists, not to mention the region’s clean air and rolling green hills backed by snowy alpine peaks.

Recently, Lake Geneva has upped its glamour factor, too, with hotels such as the Lausanne Palace & Spa becoming one of the ﬁ rst members of the prestigious group of Leading Spas of the World; and the Fairmont Le Montreux Palace adding a snazzy Freddie Mercury Suite to its plush corridors. There are plenty of resorts to choose from, no matter what your budget is, from three-star chalet-style hotels to palatial award-winning destination spas.

But best of all, Lake Geneva has a wealth of activities on offer, so while you wrap yourself in a fluff y dressing gown, your friends and family can enjoy a break, too. Take your pick, from swimming, hiking and cycling to discovering the secrets of cheese and chocolate making. The lake itself is a paradise for watersports enthusiasts and for a change of scenery, just a short train ride away are some of Switzerland’s prettiest towns, including St Moritz and Gstaad. 

MORE TOP SWISS SPA RESORTS IMAGES: ISTOCKPHOTO; SWISS TOURISM

 Beau-Site Hotel: Two minutes from the centre of Adelboden, this three-star hotel boasts spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Its spa offers a sauna, steam baths, massages and oriental spa baths for soothing away any aches and pains.  Ferienart Resort & Spa: This ﬁve-star chalet-style resort in Saas Fee provides excellent service, outstanding cuisine and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. It features a great spa offering Ayurvedic treatments, hot stone therapy and a beautiful indoor pool. Try a Rasul Bath for two.

 Solis Cambrian Hotel & Spa: If it’s luxury you’re after, then look no further — nestled within the picture-perfect village of Adelboden, this worldclass hideaway is a true Alpine sanctuary. Spa Solis is ideal for indulging in a facial or massage.  Chalet RoyAlp Hotel & Spa: This new resort opened at the end of last year and is built like a typical yet chic chalet in the village of Villarssur-Ollon. The spa impresses with an extensive treatment list and top-of-the-range Swiss products, Cellcosmet and Cellman.

escape with Advantage 15

where a weekend for...

FRIDAY First up, check into the Fairmont Le Montreux Palace featuring the Willow Stream Spa, before visiting Lausanne on the shore of Lake Geneva for a relaxed morning wandering the Old Town’s cobbled streets. Discover the many gift shops and boutiques, and some good value restaurants. In the afternoon, pop into the International Olympic Museum, housing an excellent exhibition recounting the story of the Olympic Games. Back at the hotel, treat yourself to some pampering with the Edelweiss Escape (90mins). The treatment starts with an invigorating salt exfoliation to improve circulation, followed by an energy stone massage and soothing wrap high in antioxidants. Fully revitalised, head for the world-famous Harry’s Bar within the hotel for some well-earned cocktails.

SATURDAY

Gstaad. Above: The

travelBUDDY  When to go: June to September, when alpine temperatures are warmer so you can enjoy the outdoors in between treatments.  Flying time: 1.5hrs.  Currency: Swiss franc. £1 = CHF1.70.

 Time: GMT +1.  Languages: French, Italian, German, Romansh and English.  Typical cost: Spa weekend packages for two start from £1,383 at the Fairmont Le Montreux Palace.

escape with Advantage: travel to Lake Geneva. Call FREE on 0800 215 5923 or visit www.loveyourtravelagent.com

16 escape with Advantage

Willow Stream Spa

SUNDAY Take a trip to Gstaad, easy to reach by train and well worth a visit. Not only is it breathtakingly beautiful, but you might ﬁ nd yourself rubbing shoulders with the odd celebrity. The pedestrianised promenade is lined with designer shops, great for posing and browsing. For lunch, grab a table on the grand terrace of the world-famous Gstaad Palace Hotel. In the afternoon, you could either check into the Gstaad Palace’s new Spa & Health Club or take a cable car into the mountains for an exhilarating hike. Back at the Fairmont, you’ll have earned yourself some ‘Peace and Quiet’ — a relaxing Ayurvedic treatment (60mins) where warm herbinfused oil is massaged on to your head, neck and shoulders. Afterwards, try the Pure Luxury Facial (60mins), which feeds, moisturises, stimulates and protects your skin. It’s a holistic therapy promoting relaxation as well as smoother, more radiant skin.

IMAGES: ROBERT HARDING; FAIRMONT HOTELS & RESORTS

Embrace your inner child with a visit to Callier Chocolate Factory in Broc — just a short journey by train. Here you can dip your fi nger in lots of different types of chocolate and learn the meaning of ‘proper’ tasting techniques. If you’re not well and truly sated on sugar, why not continue the decadent theme back at the hotel with a Choco Fango anti-ageing treatment (60mins). You’ll be enveloped in a decadent wrap and applied with lotion featuring cocoa (of course), a cocktail of natural ingredients to fight free radicals and shea butter — an active fat extracted from the seeds of the shea tree, which helps fi rm the skin. After letting the chocolate work its magic for the afternoon, dine in style at La Brasserie du Palace, the hotel’s authentic Parisian brasserie.

SILVER SAILING SAVINGS OF UP TO 50%

Aboard Silversea’s award-winning fleet you will find a most accommodating place to view our world. Here are days relishing the rare and embracing the exotic. With no more than 382 guests, our intimate vessels deliver the ultimate all-inclusive holiday providing the highest standards of all-suite accommodation and sublime service that is both refined and relaxed. For a limited time, Silversea is offering astonishing savings of up to 50% on select voyages and with fares from £1,398* per person, there has never been a better time to experience the unparalleled, all-inclusive luxury of Silversea. For further information or to book your ocean-view suite call Advantage FREE on 0800 215 5910. * Fare shown is per person based on double occupancy of a vista suite on a Mahé to Mahé voyage departing 13 December 2009. Port charges, government fees and taxes are included. Savings are capacity controlled, subject to availability and may be withdrawn without notice. Full terms & conditions apply.

GET CLOSER TO NORWAY FOR LESS! BERGE

KE N ~ KIR

BERGE NES ~

HTS FREE FLIG

ENJOY FREE INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS AND £100 WORTH OF ONBOARD CREDIT THIS SUMMER WHEN YOU BOOK A CLASSIC ROUND VOYAGE WITH HURTIGRUTEN!

PE RS O N 20 PE R P TO £4 SAVE U LY 20 09 JU B Y 31 BOOK

Norway’s coastal scenery is spectacular and its wildlife captivating. Hurtigruten, having been an integral part of Norwegian coastal life for over a century, know these waters better than anyone else. On your 12-day voyage you will call at over 30 ports, many of which are in areas inaccessible to other, larger cruise lines, ensuring that you’re taken closer to the heart of Norway. From the midnight sun of summer through the changing seasons that set the rhythm of life for the locals, you will experience the friendly and truly Norwegian way of life on the authentic Norwegian voyage.

12 DAY A FULL FULL-BOARD BOARD VOYA VOYAGE Y GE £100 ONBOARD CREDIT† PLUS 1 NIGHT STAY IN BERGEN FROM

£1302pp*

For more information and to book call Advantage FREE on

0800 215 5908

V7545 Terms & Conditions: Free ﬂight offer is subject to availability of appropriate economy class seats and only applicable on selected voyage departure dates from selected airports from 1 June to 27 September 2009 if booked by 31 July 2009. Open to new bookings only and cannot be applied retrospectively. All known taxes and fees are included. No cash or equivalent or alternative value can be placed with this offer. *Price is per person on a full board basis based on two people travelling together sharing a twin inside cabin/room. Included is an overnight stay in Bergen on B&B basis. †£100 onboard credit is valid for two people sharing a cabin. Single travellers will receive £50 onboard credit.

where summer hotspots

the

REAL

DEAL There’s never been a better time to book a late getaway. Paul Oswell suggests the hottest places to visit — all just a short hop from the UK

SUMMER IS HERE, but if you’ve

yet to book a holiday, don’t fret, as there’s still a huge variety of great deals to be snapped up. And with non-euro destinations now getting their fair share of the holiday limelight too, there’s never been so much choice on oﬀer. So whether your idea of holiday heaven is two weeks tanning on a sun lounger; playing golf by day and gorging on gourmet food by night; or just time wandering around the old town in a new city, there’s a holiday out there waiting for you, even if you’ve decided to book last-minute .

From left: Rovinj, Croatia; Sark coastline; the Blue Mosque, Istanbul; Bedouin and camel

CHANNEL ISLANDS

If you don’t want to go far this year, these five islands offer the best of British and the fi nest of France, with an island to suit every tempo. Herm, Sark and Alderney serve up relaxed, seaside village-like escapes, with quiet coastal inlets and lots of flora and fauna to enjoy, while Guernsey and Jersey offer everything from cosy pubs to slick restaurants. The islands are easily accessible by air and ferry and this year, new low-cost fl ights from Plymouth to Guernsey provide another affordable option. Just the ticket!

CROATIA

Croatia’s been hot on the radar for some time now, but as more Brits consider countries outside the eurozone that aren’t too far from home, this could be a scorching summer for the country. It’s an incredibly diverse and timeless European destination with an

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enviable 1,200-mile stretch of Dalmatian coastline, featuring fantastic beaches and sleepy ﬁ shing villages. Renaissance architecture and the Adriatic coast make Dubrovnik a perfect backdrop for a city break, while the medieval streets of Zagreb are also winning fans.

Sun-starved Brits have been ﬂocking to Egypt’s Red Sea resorts for years, but numbers are set to swell as more of us are curious to discover what bargains await. Egypt is hard to beat for truly top-class historical treasures, with some of the most impressive wonders of the ancient world. Relax on a seven-night Nile river cruise, visit Luxor’s impressive Valley of the Kings or soak up the bustling atmosphere of Cairo before heading out to see the Great Pyramids and Sphinx.

IMAGES ISTOCKPHOTO BRITAINONVIEW CROATIAN

EGYPT

summer hotspots where

5 FRANCE

The proximity of France, and frequent channel and rail services, makes it easy for Brits to hop across the channel. Food, wine and seductive landscapes are among the things the French do best and you can appreciate them all with a spot of chateau-hopping in the Loire Valley. Wine lovers will appreciate the centuriesold vineyards in the viticulture hotspots of Languedoc and Burgundy, while beach-friendly island life is high on the agenda in the current holiday hotspot of Corsica, served by a number of airlines and holiday companies.

IMAGES: ISTOCKPHOTO; BRITAINONVIEW; CROATIAN NATIONAL TOURIST OFFICE; PICTURES COLOUR LIBRARY

ﬁve

TURKEY

TUNISIA

Another hotspot for bargain hunters looking to escape the eurozone, Turkey oﬀers beach life and culture in droves without breaking the bank. Istanbul is where Asia meets Europe, and this incredible city mixes mosques and minarets with stylish bars and restaurants. Beach resorts are also well-established, with the harbour of Antalya and the South Aegean blue seas of Bodrum perfect for families and couples alike. Take to the seas in a traditional gulet for a mini-cruise with a diﬀerence.

Just two-and-a-half hours from the UK, Tunisia is one of the most accessible African destinations for Europeans. The maze of souks and mosques in the medina of Tunis are a perfect distillation of the local atmosphere. Hammamet and Monastir are well-established beach resorts, with all the facilities a family could need. Romantic couples might want to consider the rural hideaways of Djerba or the sand dunes in Douz, while golfers should look at the country’s seriously cheap green fees. 

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where summer hotspots

ITALY

it’s hard to beat Rome, Florence and Venice for sheer beauty and sightseeing. If the stunning Tuscan countryside, along with its gourmet food, doesn’t appeal to you, the Mediterranean coastlines of Sardinia and Sicily surely will. Alternatively, why not add to your designer wardrobe in trendy Milan or relax in the rural splendour of the Amalﬁ coast.

Child playing on the beach, Cyprus. Left: Florence. Below: Spanish tapas

CYPRUS

Not many places can rival Cyprus for getting some last-minute summer sun. But it’s the ancient mosaics and temples found in Paphos, the beaches and yearround weather pulling in the bigger crowds these days. Cyprus is now in the eurozone, so budget by opting for an all-inclusive or ask Advantage about any late villa deals going. With new ﬂ ights running from Gatwick to Larnaca, Cyprus is getting more and more accessible with prices becoming more competitive.

9 GREECE

10 SPAIN

Last year’s blockbuster Mamma Mia! put a smile on many Brits’ faces and as Greece oﬀers value for money, the islands could prove more than a Hollywood dream for holidaymakers. For culture vultures, it’s hard to beat ancient Athens, but the Greek islands are as varied as they are numerous, with party islands such as Mykonos, elegant hideaways like Santorini and rural idylls such as Symi. Crete and Corfu have great choices for families and there are some top villa deals, too.

Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia are big hitters for truly memorable city breaks, each oﬀering an individual take on Spanish culture. Expect plenty of buzz this summer, as 2009 marks the 70th anniversary of the end of the Spanish Civil War. The museums, architecture and tapas bars are perfect for couples, while the Spanish Costas are legendary family resorts and, coupled with the Canary Islands, are unparalleled for sun, sea and sangria.

nine ten

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escape with Advantage: for details on all these summer hotspots, call FREE on 0800 215 5923 or visit www.loveyourtravelagent.com

IMAGES: ISTOCKPHOTO; CYPRUS TOURIST BOARD; ITALIAN STATE TOURIST BOARD

There’s no one like 007 to put somewhere on the map, as Italy’s Lake Garda found out this year thanks to key scenes in Bond’s Quantum of Solace. But while housing half the world’s art treasures, Italian cities are like living museum exhibitions, and

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£67 per person for 7 nights based on 6 sharing a chalet, Hemsby Beach Holiday Park in Great Yarmouth, Norfolk. Prices applicable on selected arrival dates between 25 July and 29 August 2009 and are subject to availability. Hoseasons’ terms and conditions apply. +Exclusive free family games bag applies to bookings with at least one child in the party, booked between 1st – 30th June for any 2009 holiday. One games bag per booking only. Applies to new bookings only and is subject to availability. Exclusive free family games bag includes: playing cards, Frisbee, beach ball, colouring book and crayons.

5924

where tastebuds

moreish morocco Ben Lerwill ﬁnds foodie heaven in the carnivorous tagines, sweet pastries and ubiquitous mint tea of Morocco MOROCCO HOLDS MANY

treasures — it’s a land of swarming souks, ancient mosques and spicescented mysticism, and while the bustle of the street and colours of the market are integral parts of the overall experience, so too are the treats of the dining table. Nowhere are the country’s traditions more in evidence than in its famed national cuisine. When you fi nish a long lunch and fi nd yourself immediately looking forward to the evening meal, you know you’re somewhere that takes its food seriously. Like all aspects of Moroccan life, its cooking is brimming with diverse influences, a fact stemming from the nation’s eventful history. Over the generations royal cooks have perfected the use of herbs and spices — saff ron, cumin, ginger, turmeric and coriander all still figure prominently. Today’s menus incorporate Arab, Middle Eastern, Jewish, Berber, African, French and

Mediterranean ﬂavours, among others. Meals will often start with a selection of soups or hot and cold salads, before moving on to a heartier main course. Dessert usually comes in the form of sweet pastries or seasonal fruit, while mint tea is the drink of choice. The most famed dish is the tagine, an aromatic stew, steam-cooked in an earthenware dish. Found across the country, it has its origins in the portable clay ovens carried by nomads and remains a staple of the local cuisine. Classic tagines include chicken with lemon and olives and lamb with prunes and almonds — the thick, spicy sauce is served with couscous, or mopped up with bread. A tagine in a good traditional restaurant, complete with rich decor and low ornamental tables, has become a quintessential part of the Moroccan holiday experience. Many other popular dishes are also based on a similar blend of meat, spices and fresh vegetables.

Lamb is considered the tastiest meat by locals (and is generally the most costly), although beef, chicken and — particularly on the coast — seafood are also common options. While the country is still something of a carnivore’s delight, fresh and tasty vegetarian dishes are increasingly available, too. Moroccan food comes in many forms, from the sizzling grills of Djemaa el Fna in Marrakech to the honeyed delicacies of elegant restaurants. Its evolution over the centuries into one of the world’s most inventive cuisines continues to prove a high point for holidaymakers.

 Djaja Mahamara: Chicken stuffed with almonds, raisins and couscous. It can be found in most parts of the country, usually in traditional restaurants.  Fez-style couscous: An aromatic dish of couscous served with a stew of lamb, chicken or beef, together with a multitude

of vegetables, including onions, carrots and squash.  Mechoui: Popular at festivals, mechoui is a roasted leg of lamb, historically cooked on a slowing-turning spit. The Arabic word means ‘to roast on a ﬁre’. The meat is heavily spiced before being served.

 Pastilla: Served as a succulent savoury pie, pastilla consists of puff pastry stuffed with squab (pigeon) meat, ﬂ avoured with assorted spices like cinnamon.  Harira: A thick spicy soup, usually based on chickpeas and lentils. Popular over Ramadan, harira can be served as a starter or as a meal in itself.

22 escape with Advantage

IMAGES STOCKFOOD

ON THE PLATE

tastebuds where

in the kitchen

how to cook...

LAMB TAGINE 6 tbsp olive oil 4 onions, sliced 2 tsp chopped ginger 2kg lamb shoulder, cut into chunks 4 tsp ground cumin 2 tsp paprika and

Lamb tagine. Below left: Pastilla

IMAGES: STOCKFOOD. RECIPE: WWW.BBCGOODFOOD.COM

TABLE SERVICE  Palais Gharnata, Marrakech: Beautifully appointed with billowing drapes and ornate pillars, this restaurant occupies a 16th-century house in Marrakech. Pastilla and roast lamb are specialities.  Al Fassia, Fez: Located in the 130-year-old Palais Jamai Hotel, Al Fassia offers the full ‘Arabian

Nights’ experience, complete with belly-dancing and live music. The menu is classic Moroccan and diners are seated on banquettes.  La Licorne, Essaouira: Serving up traditional Moroccan fare, La Licorne has won a number of awards. Royal couscous and sweet-and-sour tagines are celebrated dishes.

ground coriander 2 cinnamon sticks 850ml passata 700g chopped sweet potatoes 350g pitted dates Sliced almonds Fresh coriander

Serves 10  Heat oil in large pan. Add onions, then gently fry until softened. Stir in the ginger, add the meat in batches.  Fry until meat lightly coloured. Return all the meat to the pan, stir in the spices and cinnamon sticks, then cook for 1min.  Add the passata and 800ml water, bring to the boil, stirring. Season well. Cover and simmer for 1½hrs, until lamb is tender.  Add sweet potatoes, stir well, cover again, then cook for 20mins or until the potatoes are just tender.  Stir in the dates and heat for 5mins. Season if necessary. To serve, spoon the tagine into a dish and scatter with almonds and fresh coriander to ﬁnish. escape with Advantage: for further details on travelling to Morocco, call FREE on 0800 215 5923 or visit www.loveyourtravelagent.com

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With our new twin centre itineraries you can explore everything that Hong Kong and Macau have to offer: Hong Kong:

Hong Kong is a non-stop, fast-moving metropolis with one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most recognisable skylines, its scintillating atmosphere is almost impossible to describe - you have to see it, smell it, feel it. As the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Culinary Capital of Asiaâ&#x20AC;?, Hong Kong has brought together a rich combination of the finest ingredients, superb award-winning restaurants and a dazzling range of international cuisines. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no better time to enjoy Hong Kongâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rich gastronomic heritage than now as throughout 2009 there will be a sparkling array of events celebrating Hong Kong Food and Wine Year!

Macau:

Only an hour from Hong Kong, Macau is a delightful surprise for visitors, with its fascinating blend of Portuguese and Chinese culture and heritage delivering a unique mix of sights, sounds and tastes. Despite its size at only 29 sq km it packs a lot in and visitors can easily spend a few days enjoying its UNESCO listed â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Historic Centreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, its tranquil countryside on the islands of Taipa and Coloane, its amazing restaurants and, of course, its fabulous deluxe hotels and resorts, spas and entertainment.

Exclusive Twin Centre Offer: 3 nights in Hong Kong, staying at the Harbour Plaza Metropolis Hotel 4V, Room Only 3 nights in Macau, staying at the Sofitel Macau at Ponte 16, 4V+, Bed & Breakfast Daily flights with Virgin Atlantic from London Heathrow to Hong Kong From just ÂŁ849* per person including road and ferry transfers between Hong Kong and Macau Plus book by 31 Jul â&#x20AC;&#x2122;09 and receive an exclusive FREE room upgrade at the Sofitel Macau at Ponte 16â&#x20AC;

Terms and conditions apply. *Prices are per adult and based on 2 adults travelling between 17 Aug-08 Sep â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;09 and sharing accommodation as stated with return economy flights and include all applicable taxes and fuel surcharges, which are current at the time of print and are subject to change. Prices are â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;fromâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; prices and prices within each dateband may vary. A ÂŁ20 per person supplement each way applies for Friday, Saturday and Sunday travel. Peak seasons supplements may apply. â&#x20AC; Free room upgrade valid at Sofitel Macau at Ponte 16 only, for bookings made before 31 Jul â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;09 for travel completed before 31 Dec â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;09, room upgrade offered to next available room category and subject to availability. All offers are for new bookings only and subject to availability and Virgin Holidays standard terms and conditions. Information correct at time of print. We reserve the right to withdraw offers at any time.

$'9$17$*( +21* .21* $1' 0$&$8 $' L GG

tailormade where

DOUBLE UP

IMAGES: THE TRAVEL LIBRARY; PHOTOLIBRARY

With so much variety on the horizon, don’t limit yourself to just one destination or experience — why not try a combination, says Ben Lerwill CHOOSING WHERE TO go on holiday isn’t always straightforward. As soon as summertime comes around, the same annual questions arise. Back to where we loved last year or on to somewhere new? Head to the beach or make for the mountains? Stick close to home or go far away? Maybe try a cruise ship? A city break? A jungle trek? The world might be getting smaller, but its roll call of holiday options seems to lengthen with each passing month. One look at a globe can send us into fits of indecision. All of which makes the idea of a twin- or multi-centre break a fetching one. Combining two or more destinations on a single holiday is a hassle-free way of bringing something extra to the overall experience. A week soaking up the sun in Bali is an attractive proposition in itself, but imagine taking in four nights of urban thrills in Singapore as well — you’ll be landing back in the UK with double the memories. And it doesn’t have to cost much more, either. In other words, not only are you benefiting from a more diverse experience, you’re also getting far more bang for your buck. The range of possible pairings is huge. south-east Asia is brimming with senseassaulting city-beach combinations, the Caribbean is ripe for island-hopping and South America offers a world of different adventures all on one continent. Elsewhere, the US is perfect for fly-drive getaways, Africa offers holiday contrasts aplenty and Europe is a veritable treasure-trove of cities, mountain ranges and seaside resorts. On the following pages, we give you a few of the best ideas for memorable twin- and multi-centre holidays. The only downside? You’ll have to write a lot more postcards. 

Relaxing on a pristine beach. Above: Singapore’s bustling night market

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where tailormade

TWIN TIME SKYSCRAPERS & JUNGLE

Hong Kong’s cinematic skyline and Borneo’s dense jungle canopy don’t have much in common — and that’s the beauty. Pairing the two destinations, facing each other across the South China Sea, is a way of sampling some of the endlessly eclectic flavours on offer in this corner of Asia. Th row yourself into the neon thrum and colonial traditions of Hong Kong, taking in high-end restaurants, harbour tours and designer shopping malls, before heading to the wilderness of Borneo, where Mother Nature still rules the mountains. Meet orang-utans, climb shaggy summits and explore national parks before relaxing on the beach or golf course. It’s a combination perfectly suited to outgoing couples of all ages, and both destinations offer fi rst-rate accommodation. To neatly round it off, tag on a couple of nights in cosmopolitan Kuala Lumpur on the way home. For two weeks of full-blown luxury, expect to pay around £2,500 per person (pp).

 Throw yourself into the neon thrum and colonial traditions of Hong Kong before heading to the wilderness of Borneo, where Mother Nature still rules the mountains

Special events call for special backdrops. Seychelles has developed a solid reputation as an idyllic wedding setting over the years, and the islands are certainly well accustomed to laying on VIP treatment for ring-bearing couples, often also welcoming close friends and family for the special day. Described as ‘pearls floating on crystal waters’, the islands are among the most picturesque in the world and boast a string of five-star hotel options. And here’s the best part: when the knot’s been tied and the sun sets on the celebrations, the bride and groom can then make the short hop south to Mauritius, also in the Indian Ocean, for an equally intimate honeymoon. The much eulogised island is just as romantic and blessed, with stunning and unspoilt beaches. It’s comfortably warm year-round Clockwise from above: The and its ongoing neon lights of Hong Kong; rice popularity with a fields in Vietnam; Kuta beach, discerning clientele Bali; Yosemite National Park means it offers superb in the USA; beach in Mauritius; cuisine and a full luxury resort in Seychelles range of activities and watersports. A two-week trip can cost around £2,000 pp.

IMAGES SUPERSTOCK PHOTOLIBRARY SEYCHELLES

WEDDINGS & HONEYMOONS

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TWO’S COMPANY TRADITION & TAN-TIME

One of south-east Asia’s up and coming stars, Vietnam is a hauntingly beautiful destination with its sweeping paddy fields, rich heritage and swirling street life. Time-honoured traditions are apparent, from its ancient temples to its distinctive food, and bustling stop-offs like Hanoi, Hoi An, Hue and Ho Chi Minh City all offer cultural riches of their own. A trip to Vietnam is a riveting experience, with time in the serene surrounds of Bali the perfect complement. The Indonesian island is renowned for its golden coastline and formidable good-time vibe, often drawing a young crowd but also offering potential for discerning holidaymakers out there. Bali is also home to a proud culture, and after the hubbub and colour of Vietnam it’s somewhere to come and re-energise — even surf — among beautiful scenery. Costs vary greatly, but a 10-night stay in Vietnam and a week in Bali, going four-star, can cost around £2,000 pp.

IMAGES: SUPERSTOCK; PHOTOLIBRARY; SEYCHELLES TOURISM MARKETING AUTHORITY

OPEN ROADS & CITY LIVING

The USA is somewhere that attaches a true romance to the open road, so fly-drive holidays have become a popular way of getting a taste of a region. It’s a vast country, of course, and there are numerous states well suited to four-wheel exploration — Alaska, New England and Alabama among them — but up there with the very best is California. Start with a few days in San Francisco before venturing out to the wine regions and on into Yosemite National Park, then join the famous Pacific Coast Highway to head south through Carmel and Santa Barbara, ending the journey with time in Los Angeles and San Diego. Road trips of this calibre don’t come along too often, and for anyone looking to get under the surface of the States, it makes for an unforgettable experience. Expect to pay around £1,450 pp for a 15-day trip, including fl ights and car hire. 

 For anyone looking to get under the surface of the States, a ﬂy-drive holiday makes for an unforgettable experience. It’s a vast country, with numerous states well suited to four-wheel exploration

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where tailormade

ALL IN ONE Cuba on its own can offer some fantastic twincentre and touring options — the country is diverse and colourful enough to offer multiple contrasting destinations dotted around its vast expanse. To think of its capital, Havana, is to conjure up images of vintage cars, cigar smoke and salsa clubs — it never fails to seduce visitors and its multi-hued history helps make it one of the most remarkable city break destinations on the planet. Naturally, with Cuba sitting in the Caribbean, it also plays home to holiday spots of the more traditional kind. The resort town of Varadero has more than 12 miles of white sand, as well as all the tourist trimmings that go along with sunny stretches of coast. Whether your ideal beach break involves throwing yourself into watersports or sitting back with a chilled Cuba Libre, there’s plenty to keep the holiday spirit flowing. Prices for a twin-centre holiday start at around £700 pp.

From top: iconic car in Havana; beach near Varadero; Sorrento harbour

 Cuba’s capital Havana never fails to seduce visitors and its multi-hued history helps make it one of the most remarkable city break destinations on the planet

ITALIAN STYLE & ISLAND LIFE

For something closer to home, Italy has proven potential for multi-centre trips. The north of the country offers the tantalising pairing of Milan and Lake Como, but matching it in the style stakes is the southern combination of Sorrento and the island of Capri. Sitting pretty on the legendary Amalfi Coast, Sorrento is a town of cobbled streets, gourmet restaurants and breathtaking shoreline vistas. After a few days soaking up the laid-back Italian ambience, cross by ferry to Capri — a destination that has attracted the international jet-set for more than half a century — where even over a short time you’ll get the chance to explore this most captivating of islands. Italy is ideal for those who like to keep their fl ight times to a minimum but won’t compromise on comfort. For a week-long taste of la dolce vita, with fl ights and deluxe accommodation throughout, you can expect to pay around £900 pp. 28 escape with Advantage

escape with Advantage: to book a package or tailormake your holiday call FREE on 0800 215 5923 or visit www.loveyourtravelagent.com

IMAGES: PHOTOLIBRARY; SUPERSTOCK; GAVIN BRIGHTMAN

SALSA & SUNSHINE

THE MOST EXTRAORDINARY JOURNEYS begin right here. Cruising at its finest is surprisingly affordable with Holland America Line’s special fares. Timeless ports, plus unspoiled, lesser-known locales come together in creative itineraries that offer true explorers uncompromised elegance.

$25 FREE Onboard Spending Money per person, plus a bottle of complimentary champagne - EXCLUSIVE to Advantage customers* 12 Night Med Romance Fly/Cruise Oosterdam - 4 Sep 2009

Venice to Barcelona Inside from

1,119

17 Night Europe Serenade Fly/Cruise Oosterdam - 17 Oct 2009

Barcelona - Ft. Lauderdale Inside from

1,299

17 Night China & Vietnam Fly/Cruise Volendam - 24 Oct 2009 Roundtrip Hong Kong

Inside from

1,859

21 Night Panama Canal Fly/Cruise Oosterdam - 1 Nov 2009 Ft. Lauderdale - San Diego

Inside from

1,879

37 Night Americas Discovery & South America Explorer Fly/Cruise Veendam - 30 Oct 2009 San Diego - Rio de Janiero Inside from

2,849

For more information and to book, call Advantage FREE on 0800 215 5903

SPACIOUS ELEGANT SHIPS - GRACIOUS, AWARD-WINNING SERVICE - WORLDWIDE ITINERARIES EXTENSIVE ACTIVITIES AND ENRICHMENT PROGRAMMES - SOPHISTICATED FIVE-STAR DINING *Free spending money and champagne only applicable to sailings featured in the advert, excluding Oosterdam 1st Nov 2009 sailing on which Champagne isn’t included. All lead fares are published per person sharing a twin stateroom on a fly/cruise basis in UK£ and include cruise accommodation as specified. All prices and accommodation are subject to availability at the time of booking. Offers are capacity controlled. For full terms and conditions please refer to the current Holland America Line Worldwide Cruises brochure.

where making waves

With a whole host of exciting new ships and cruises being launched, Jeannine Williamson takes a look at what’s on offer DITCH THE IMAGE of the blue rinse

brigade and cheesy entertainment — cruising has become cool and affordable. A record 1.5 million UK holidaymakers took a cruise in 2008, and the cruise boom is set to continue with 14 ship launches planned this year. From gigantic city-like ships with shopping centres, surf pools and climbing walls through to ultraluxury liners with stylish interiors and spas offering some unabashed indulgence, there’s never been a better time to hop aboard. And for those not wanting to fly, there are now 11 UK departure ports, which means, of course, no restriction on the amount of luggage you can take. Brand new ships include P&O’s massive 3,100-passenger Azura, featuring 900 private balconies 30 escape with Advantage

and 11 restaurants! But the biggest waves created this year will be by Royal Caribbean International’s Oasis of the Seas. Launching in November and sailing from Florida to the Caribbean islands, this will be the world’s largest cruise ship — and faced with 16 decks, passengers may need a GPS to ﬁ nd their way around. Cunard’s eagerly awaited liner Queen Elizabeth, due to launch in 2010, recently sold its inaugural cruise in just 28 minutes. Another top cruise expected to sell like hot cakes is Holland America Line’s Signature Class ship, Nieuw Amsterdam. With the option of luxury spa staterooms this is one for those who really want to be pampered. Tempted? Why not ﬁ nd your sea legs on one of these great taster cruises...

making waves where

IMAGES: PHOTOLIBRARY; ISTOCKPHOTO; 2009 ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD; HURTIGRUTEN LTD

Clockwise from top left: Brussels; sport aboard RCI; Blarney Castle, Cork; Tromsø, Norway

europe

mediterranean

 Cruise: Four-night Charms of the Channel on Holland America Line’s Eurodam.  When: 6 July 2009.  Why go: The high-profi le on-board activity programme includes fitness guru Diana Moran, aka The Green Goddess, former royal correspondent Dickie Arbiter and OXO Tower chef, Jeremy Bloor.  The route: Departing from Dover, Eurodam arrives at Zeebrugge early next day, with time to visit Bruges or Brussels. Next up is Cherbourg, gateway to historic Normandy, then a day at St Peter Port, Guernsey.  Best for: Culture vultures and fi rst-timers.  Price: From £359 pp.

 Cruise: Five-night Western Med fly-cruise on Royal Caribbean International’s Navigator of the Seas.  When: 10 October 2009.  Why go: Th is is a great choice for those who want to combine plenty of time onboard with some sightseeing. Days at sea can be packed with activities, or you can just spend time relaxing.  The route: After the fl ight to Malaga and a day cruising, the ship calls at Ajaccio in Corsica and the chic French port of Toulon.  Best for: Sporty and young-at-heart passengers, with rock-climbing, basketball and ice-skating on offer.  Price: From £568 pp, including fl ights.

arctic

uk & ireland

 Cruise: Th ree-night Northern Lights: A Taste of the Arctic cruise with Hurtigruten.  When: Between October 2009 and March 2010.  Why go: There’s no better way to experience nature’s fi nest light show than from a ship set against a dark sky, free from artificial light. Norway offers fantastic opportunities to see wildlife and experience exciting shore activities, including husky dog sledding.  The route: Travelling from Tromsø, the capital of Arctic Norway, to the medieval city of Trondheim, Hurtigruten’s smaller ships hug the coast, calling at coastal communities unreachable by larger ships.  Best for: Seekers of an authentic Arctic experience.  Price: From £495 pp, including fl ights.

 Cruise: Four-night Cork Short Break on Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Eclipse.  When: 29 April 2010.  Why go: Th is mini-cruise oﬀers plenty of time to explore some of Ireland’s most famous attractions. Shore excursions take in Blarney Castle, the lakes of Killarney and Ireland’s gourmet capital Kinsale.  The route: Sailing from Southampton, it oﬀers an afternoon and day in Cork before cruising home.  Best for: Luxury seekers looking to be spoilt rotten.  Price: From £626 pp. escape with Advantage: for cruise information, call FREE on 0800 215 5923 or visit www.loveyourtravelagent.com

escape with Advantage 31

where notebook: australia

happycamper Heading out on the open road and sleeping under the stars, Teresa Machan experiences the great outdoors of Oz — with a little help from the locals SWAPPING BAREFOOT LUXURY

in favour of some good, old honest camping was a liberating experience. Yes, it was pitch black and raining, with probably all manner of indigenous creepy crawlies lurking outside, but what better way to spend my ﬁ rst night in Australia than sleeping outdoors under the stars — even if I did get a little wet.

32 escape with Advantage

Luckily, this was New South Wales in the Australian summer and although the ﬁ rst night proved to be a wet one, the following morning dawned sunny. With only a piece of canvas between me and the great outdoors, I woke to a dawn chorus of native birds that included the melodic kookaburra and whip-crack call of the eastern whipbird. I trotted down to the beach in time to watch the sun rise over a butter-curl white bay. Jervis Bay Marine Park was living up to its reputation as one of the most beautiful spots in the world. The only diﬃculty now

was deciding whether to go whale watching, diving, snorkelling, bush walking or guided sea kayaking... I usually avoid driving on holiday, but on this trip Down Under I’d decided to ‘do as the locals do’ and travel by campervan. Despite my baptism of water, getting behind the wheel proved a lot of fun and I found the ‘home on wheels’ concept very empowering. The Britz Adventurer 4x4 was kitted out with everything a novice camper could possibly need. Roads were pretty empty and wellmaintained, and the well-stocked visitor centres en route provided

notebook: australia where

access to more information than I could ever hope to digest. New South Wales is a remarkable state. Not only does it house some of Australia’s biggest icons, it also boasts rich tablelands, eucalyptﬁ lled valleys, mountains clad in sub-tropical rainforest, islands rich in marine life and wilderness areas jumping with wildlife.

IMAGES: PHOTOLIBRARY; ISTOCKPHOTO

SEDUCTIVE SCENES

The beauty of New South Wales’ southern coast unfolds in a series of bays and coves that truly lends itself to a self-drive. Drive an hour south of Sydney and you come to one of the world’s oldest national parks, the Royal National, one of 39 national parks and reserves this region oﬀers along with a handful of wine regions and two World Heritage areas — the Greater Blue Mountains and Lord Howe Island.

 According to the Guinness Book of Records, the world’s whitest sand is found here at Jervis Bay and, when you’re dazzled by the sand at 7am, it’s not hard to believe

Jervis Bay and neighbouring Booderee National Park were my ﬁ rst stop but the drive through the Royal National Park and along the sinuously seductive Sea Cliﬀ Bridge was a treat in itself. Flanked by the Tasman Sea on one side and forested Illawarra escarpment on the other, the route meanders through rainforest, dips into villages and whisks you along a sensational stretch of coast. So sensational, in fact, you might lose track of time in its countless beachside cafes and arrive at your campsite two hours later than you had planned. Booderee is an Aboriginal word

Sisters , amaroo. Right: Three Sunrise over Lake Pam oos gar kan Red : ure n pict Blue Mountains. Mai

meaning ‘bay of plenty’. Current statistics indicate more than 206 species of bird, 27 species of land mammals, 15 frog species, 23 reptile species and 650 species of plants inhabit the park — among them blue cockatoos, eastern rosellas, penguins and kangaroos. Its hinterland oﬀers waterfalls, creeks, bush walking and 55 miles of beaches. Part of this coastline is made up of the Jervis Bay Marine Park, boasting 216 species of ﬁ sh as well as whales and dolphins. According to the Guinness Book of Records, the world’s whitest sand is also found here and when you’re dazzled by the sand at 7am, it’s not hard to believe. 

escape with Advantage 33

where notebook: australia

Win a W h o holiday for ttwo tw wo to Dunk Island and the Lakes Cairns an Sp in Australia, Resort & Spa courtesy of Advantage, Anzac Biscuits and Gold Medal Travel. Visit www.advantage4travel. com/sainsburys for more details. Good luck!

The evocative sounding Green Patch, where we stayed for two nights, lives up to its reputation as one of Booderee’s most soughtafter locations. Book early to secure a spot; more than 450,000 visitors, many regulars, stay here each year and with good reason. The site gives access to the stunning sheltered beach with crystal-clear waters, where you can walk for miles, scrunching the world’s whitest sand between your toes, and gulp bellyfuls of tea-tree and eucalypt-scented air. BBQ IN THE BUSH

From top: Cape Jervis; rosella bird; New South Wales vineyard; Booderee National Park

34 escape with Advantage

Our second (drier) evening was spent chatting with a couple who have been coming to Jervis Bay since the mid-1980s. Hanging out with the locals has its advantages as not only did the pair possess the world’s most powerful gas lamp — useful for fi nding our way at night — but we also got to dine on their freshly caught snapper. “Yep, she’s a beauty,” confi rmed Dale as he fl ipped the fat fi sh on the barbie. Under brooding skies next morning, I drew comfort in the knowledge that today I was moving on to a campsite with a difference. In Paperbark Camp, a 20-minute drive away, I’d found the perfect foil for the capricious weather. Located in a natural bush setting, Paperbark is Australia’s fi rst luxury tented camp. My safari style ‘tent’, named Gang Gang after the eponymous cockatoo, sat on a timber platform beneath a canopy of gums and paperbark trees. The carbon footprint here is minimal: lights and hot water are solar powered and there are no phones or TVs. Eco-tourism is taken seriously and the owners employ a tree doctor to perform regular ‘medicals’. There are canoes for paddling on the Currambene Creek and bicycles for bush forays. Locals come for gourmet treetop dining at the Gunyah restaurant, a

stilted eyrie set in the tree canopy. The Gunyah doubles up as the camp’s nerve centre, a place to chat by the ﬁ re. Dining on the balcony was like camping ‘a la carte’, with a menu featuring kangaroo kebabs with lemon and myrtle yoghurt, salmon baked in paperbark and kaﬃ r lime, and ginger sorbet with lychees and Bacardi. Dinner over, I padded back through the bush, eyes peeled for wombats, kangaroos and possums — the latter having a penchant for sticking their noses through unzipped tents. Fond as I had become of my rooftop tent, I admit I preferred the sound of torrential rain lying in Gang Gang. Roughing it, without roughing it.

travelBUDDY  When to go: Australia’s seasons are the opposite of ours. Summer (December to February) is ideal for outdoor activities, although Queensland and the north experience high humidity. Winter (June to August) is the best time to visit the Northern Territory, northern Queensland and Australia’s north-west.  Flying time: An average of 21hrs.  Currency: Australian dollar: £1 = A$1.93.  Time: GMT +10.  Typical costs: Holiday prices vary massively, depending on the type of tour and experience, but a 14-night self-drive tour of the East Coast typically costs from £1,200 per person, including ﬂights and 15 days’ campervan hire.

escape with Advantage: for further details on travelling to Australia, call FREE on 0800 215 5923 or visit www.loveyourtravelagent.com

IMAGES: GETTY; PHOTOLIBRARY; ROBERT HARDING; SOUTH AUSTRALIAN TOURISM COMMISSION

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To book call your local Advantage Agent

FREE on 0800 215 5915 Prices are per person including all taxes and charges and valid for selected travel dates in 2009. Accommodation based on two people sharing a twin room on a room only basis unless otherwise stated. ** Min 7nt stay applies, valid until 30 Sept 09. Prices correct at time of going to print but subject to change and limited availability. Terms and conditions apply.

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where special interest

t s u j s u j t

add water

Matt Carroll takes a look at some of the best places to get wet and wild this summer — don’t forget the swimming gear!

m editerra mediterr Some of the best sailing on the planet is only a couple of hours’ fl ight away. Those with experience can charter their own boat and take to the seas on a self-guided adventure, stopping off at whichever island harbour takes their fancy. Or if your captain’s log is looking a bit thin, why not explore the islands of Greece, the bays of Italy or the ports of Corsica as part of an organised flotilla?  We suggest: Sailing away to the Ionian Islands of Greece

caribbean With secluded bays, reliable winds and water so warm you won’t need a wetsuit, the Caribbean has some of the top conditions for watersports in the world. The British Virgin Islands is the place to go sailing — with calm seas and islands only a couple of hours apart — while surfers should head to Barbados, where Atlantic swells guarantee good waves. Particularly hot in St Lucia and the Dominican Republic right now is kitesurﬁ ng, a grin-inducing blend of paragliding, wakeboarding and windsurﬁ ng. Professional kiters and daredevil windsurfers from around the globe 36 escape with Advantage

ﬂock to St Lucia’s shores to catch the afternoon breeze, so although beginners are welcome, you’ll need to get in pretty early if you want a gentler ride.  We suggest: Reduit Beach in the north of St Lucia is a long stretch of golden sand oﬀering snorkelling, scuba diving and sailing. Kitesurf Anse de Sable in the south-east or dive the fantastic reefs of the south-west.  When to go: St Lucia is a yearround destination but the best weather is November-March.  Typical cost: Seven-night packages start from £650 pp.

From left: Making a splash in the British Virgin Islands; scuba diving off Ari Atoll in the Maldives; Kassiopi harbour, Corfu

special interest where

rrranean anean

in a ﬂotilla. Th is way you get the privacy of your own boat, a ready-made itinerary and help on demand from the lead crew if you need it. With Lefkas as your base, you can explore the turquoise waters and rocky islands of Kefalonia and Ithaka, stopping to investigate sea caves and deserted beaches along the way.  When to go: Early summer for consistent sunshine and calm seas.  Typical cost: One week aboard a ﬂotilla costs from £699 pp.

IMAGES: GETTY; SUPERSTOCK; PHOTOLIBRARY

ocean indian dianocean in Dip below the surface in this part of the world and you’ll fi nd vibrant coral reefs so stunning, words can’t describe. Whether you’re an experienced diver or are trying on a pair of fl ippers for the fi rst time, the sheer amount of marine life is staggering. Many Maldivian islands have their own ‘house reefs’, where you’ll fi nd submerged wrecks, stingrays and sharks. And if that’s not enough to have you yearning to get wet, you can always try your hand at waterskiing, canoeing and deep-sea fi shing.  We suggest: The exclusive Anantara Resort in the Maldives, accessible only by speedboat. Its PADI Dive Centre has courses catering for all skill levels.  When to go: December to April, when the weather is cooler with temperatures around 28C.  Typical cost: Seven-night packages start from £680 pp. escape with Advantage: for further details on watersports holidays call FREE on 0800 215 5923 or visit www.loveyourtravelagent.com

where else?  New Zealand: The South Island features some of the world’s most exciting rivers and rapids for kayaking or canoeing, with clusters of wriggling trout for company as you paddle on through the crystal clear Buller Gorge, known in Maori as Kawatiri, meaning ‘deep and swift’.  Hawaii: Regarded as the birthplace and mecca of surﬁng, the Hawaiian islands have waves to suit all abilities. But if standing on a moving board is beyond you, you could always try parasailing, jetskiing or sailing instead.  Egypt: The Red Sea resort of Sharm El Sheikh is surrounded by vibrant and colourful coral reefs, making it an international hotspot for divers and snorkellers. But those who prefer to get their kicks above the surface can have a go at wakeboarding or waterskiing.

escape with Advantage 37

why

spotlight

safaris safari

 Need to know: Namibia offers a refreshing twist on the classic safari. Forget wide open savannahs and think vast swathes of sand and scrubland, where tribes eke out a living alongside lions and leopards. In contrast to the upmarket cottages of South Africa and Kenya, expect eco lodges and low-key camping; head to Etosha National Park and you can spy on lions stalking their prey before returning to camp to sleep under a star-ﬁlled sky.  Highlight: Book a self-drive safari to explore at your own pace. Grab a car at Windhoek and head south to Sossusvlei to climb the 300 metre high sand dunes. From here, move north along the Skeleton Coast to Etosha, where you’ll mingle

From left: Fish River Canyon, Namibia; lion in Kruger National Park; elephants drinking, Kenya; sunset in Botswana 38 escape with Advantage

SOUTH S O AFRICA big b i ﬁ ve time  Need to know: It’s home to some of the best-known game reserves on the planet, including Kruger National Park and Table Mountain National Park. Located in the north-east, Kruger features 147 mammal species, more than any other African game reserve, and includes exotic creatures like the black-backed jackal. Most visitors come to see the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo and elephant) and if you don’t mind opting for a back-to-basics camp, you’ve a good chance of getting up close and personal with all of them.  Highlight: Luxury seekers should try the Mala Mala private reserve in Sabi Sands for traditional-style cottages surrounded by lush lawns that give way to rolling wilderness.

IMAGES: MARK EVELEIGH;

NAMIBIA N A to spy sspace p

spotlight

why

IMAGES: MARK EVELEIGH; PHOTOLIBRARY; WWW.FOTOSEEKER. COM; BOTSWANA TOURISM

KENYA K collection cclassic l

BOTSWANA B O winging it w  Need to know: From dry land to wetlands, Botswana’s inland Okavango Delta is the largest of its kind in the world. Bird twitchers will be in their element, with more than 400 species circling the buffalo and crocodiles lolloping about at the water’s edge. A must-see is nearby Chobe National Park, where you’ll witness entire herds of elephants taking their daily dip in the river. Most ﬁve-day packages offer accommodation in luxury ﬁvestar tents around the Delta and National Park; from here you can travel by river to see the breathtaking Victoria Falls.  Highlights: Creep around the clear waters of the Okavango in a traditional dugout canoe, or mekoro, allowing you to get close to feathery residents.

 Need to know: Mention the word ‘safari’ and this is the country most people think of ﬁrst. From the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro to the unending plains of the Masai Mara, Kenya packs exotic wildlife, ancient tribes and beautiful landscapes under one enormous sky. Mara Buffalo Camp is great for families, with the Game Ranger ‘taster’ course giving you the chance to learn how to track and look after the animals. Another must-see is the Rift Valley, where eight lakes teem with crocodiles and hippos.  Highlights: Take a trip in a hot-air balloon over the Masai Mara or watch elephants, ﬂamingoes and pelicans from the family-friendly Tortlis Camp and dine under the starlit sky. 

escape with Advantage 39

why

spotlight

TANZANIA T A migration magic m

RWANDA R W to the trees

Gazelles in Tanzania. Above: Rwandan tribes people

 Need to know: Swap dry, exposed plains for majestic, tree-covered mountains. Rwanda’s lush landscape and breathtaking animal life are a far cry from typical safaris; instead of open-topped Land Rovers, you’ll head deep into the Nyungwe Forest to ﬁnd 13 species of primates hiding among the bamboo trees and waterfalls — including chimpanzees, monkeys and baboons. Accommodation is simple, but the scenery stunning, and with just 32 tourist permits per day, it’ll feel like you’ve got it all to yourself.  Highlights: Picking up the trail of the magniﬁcent mountain gorillas, during a trek along the Volcanoes National Park. Sigourney Weaver eat your heart out!

escape with Advantage: for further details on all these great safaris call FREE on 0800 215 5923 or visit www.loveyourtravelagent.com

40 escape with Advantage

IMAGES: PHOTOLIBRARY; THE RWANDA TOURISM BOARD

 Need to know: The numbers alone say it all about Tanzania. Every year, between June and October, more than a million herding wildebeest, 300,000 zebra and half a million Thomson’s gazelles head north across the Serengeti on their way to Kenya, heralded by the sound of pounding hooves echoing across the plains. Equally vast is the Ngorongoro Crater, where more than 25,000 animals roam the sunken ground of this extinct volcano.  Highlights: Relax in the spacious and airy Sopa Lodges dotted around the region to take in the fantastic views and watch the annual migration of the wildebeest. You’ll also stand a good chance of spotting over 400 species of bird, the Big Five, or herds of gazelle and zebra.

FREE flights on selected 2009 cruises* Up to $500 per person additional shipboard credit EXCLUSIVE to Advantage customers on the following sailings 9 August 12 August

12 nights 11 nights

Athens to Barcelona Stockholm to Dover

from £3,980 from £3,665

All prices include free economy flights

For more information and to book call Advantage FREE on 0800 215 5916

VOTED WORLD’S BEST LARGE SHIP CRUISE LINE Travel + Leisure 13 years • Condé Nast Traveler USA 15 years • Condé Nast Traveller UK 2007 * Free Flights valid on selected sailings. Prices are per person based on 2 adults sharing an outside stateroom and include return economy flights from London, transfers, port taxes and basic gratuities. Valid for bookings made by sailing date. Terms and conditions apply. Subject to availability. ABTA, ATOL Protected 2980.

$50per

xperiencing the E best cruise line is

onboard stateroomexclusive spend – antage to Adv ers** custom

closer than you think With sailings from Southampton in 2010 onboard Celebrity Eclipse

For more information and to book call Advantage FREE on 0800 215 5906

Prices from

£619 pp*

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* Price is per person based on two people sharing a category 2C Balcony Stateroom onboard Celebrity Eclipse departing Southampton 03 May 2010 on the 4-night Cork Short Break itinerary (cruise only). Price is subject to increase/withdrawal at any time and subject to availability. ** Onboard spend is applicable to new bookings created & confirmed by 30 June 2009 & applicable to bookings for the Celebrity Eclipse 03 May 2010 departure, only when booked through Advantage. Terms and conditions apply.

why

experience

park li Theme parks can provide the ultimate in holiday thrills, as Sam Lewis discovers

1. europe

42 escape with Advantage

Clockwise from top left: Tutuki Splash, PortAventura; Wild Wadi at sunrise; Tokyo Disneyland; Dolphins

2. usa  We suggest: Discovery Cove, Orlando, Florida  Why: A tropical paradise where you’ll have the rare opportunity to swim and play with bottlenose dolphins, snorkel around a coral reef with thousands of tropical ﬁ sh, hand-feed exotic birds or sunbathe on a man-made sandy beach.  When: Go any time from April to October when you can make the most of Florida’s glorious sunshine.  Where else: Nearby, Aquatica is the perfect combination of animal experiences, water rides and slides, with high-speed thrills and relaxing sandy beaches. If you like this, you’ll also love diving into Disney’s water park Typhoon Lagoon, Universal’s Wet ‘n’ Wild and the Congo River Rapids at Busch Gardens. Not forgetting there’s Orlando’s SeaWorld with rides, shows and animals galore.

IMAGES: ISTOCKPHOTO; JUMEIRAH; PORTAVENTURA; DISNEY

 We suggest: PortAventura, Costa Dorada, Spain  Why: Situated on Spain’s sunny east coast, visitors can enjoy the thrill of the theme park with a classic sun, sea and sand combo. Relax in the private Beach Club or jump on over 30 rides and ﬁ nd out what it’s like to go from 0 to 135 km/h in just three seconds.  When: May-September for sun.  Where else: Tenerife’s Siam Park features some of the world’s largest man-made waves — up to three metres in height. Nearby, animal magic can be found in Loro Parque, home to some 30,000 animal species including silverback gorillas, panthers and penguins.

experience

ife

3. middle east

3 4

why

4. asia  We suggest: Tokyo Disney Resort, Tokyo, Japan  Why: Tokyo Disneyland features attractions and high-speed rides similar to those found in Disney’s US parks except it’s, well, larger and has a somewhat Oriental flavour. The resort now comprises a second park, Tokyo DisneySea, with live entertainment, rides and the chance for kids to meet their favourite Disney characters.  When: The milder seasons of autumn or spring. Summers can be very hot while winters are freezing.  Where else: Singapore’s Wild Wild Wet has Asia’s highest flume ride and is the perfect way to escape the heat. Also, next year the city’s resort island of Sentosa will house south-east Asia’s fi rst and only Universal Studios theme park and the world’s largest oceanarium, Marine Life Park.

 We suggest: Wild Wadi, Dubai  Why: Situated between Burj Al Arab and Jumeirah Beach Hotel in Dubai, this Arabian-themed water park is spread over 12 acres and features 30 rides and attractions. Most are interconnected so you never have to leave the water. Sit in inﬂatable rings propelled uphill by water jets; relax on the lazy river ride; or make a splash on the tallest free-fall speed slide outside the US.  When: October to March for the best temperatures when there’s also guaranteed sunshine.  Where else: Dubailand currently has ﬁve attractions open including Autodrome, Sports City and an Outlet Mall. When completed, it’ll be twice the size of Florida’s Disney World incorporating parks from Universal Studios, Six Flags, Marvel, Dreamworks and Legoland.

TOP TIPS  Be prepared: kids have to be a certain height for many rides.  Beat the crowds by working backwards through a park instead of starting at the front.  Booking an ‘on-site hotel’ has its perks. At a Disney-owned resort for example, guests get Extra Magic Hours — access to the park outside regular hours.  Multi-park tickets and buying before you go can save you time and money. Some theme parks only have a limited number of daily tickets so be sure to book with Advantage before you go.

escape with Advantage: for further details on theme park holidays around the world, call FREE on 0800 215 5923

escape with Advantage 43

W H AT W IL L YOU DI SCOV E R ? Bringing together so many thrilling elements of wonder and awe from the planet that we all share, our parks offer a variety of experiences not available anywhere else in Orlando, or Florida or even the wider world! Collectively they are ® now known as Worlds of Discovery. Individually they are SeaWorld , the world’s ® most popular marine life park; the tropical oasis Discovery Cove ; the African ® themed adventure park Busch Gardens and Aquatica™, SeaWorld’s new waterpark.

travel spy

why

In this issue, we hop onboard two epic railway journeys with our intrepid team of travellers

The Taj Mahal

 THE PALACE ON WHEELS, INDIA

IMAGE: INCREDIBLE INDIA

BY JANE DUNFORD STRETCHING FROM THE soaring peaks of the Himalayas in the north to the lush greenery of Kerala in the south, India is a vast and varied country lending itself to exciting and epic journeys, whether you’re travelling by rail, river or road. Board one of the legendary trains and watch the world unfold beyond the window as you cross sprawling hills, follow the coast and skirt villages en route. Cocooned in comfort, you’ll cover a lot of ground and still be immersed in the country’s bustle, stopping to explore all the sites along the way. First developed under the British more than 150 years ago, India’s rail network is now the second largest system in the world, stretching nearly 40,000 miles with over 13 million train journeys a day. Life is played out in colourful chaos on station platforms, where mini-bazaars are set up and people sleep, eat, wash and chat. Travel on the ordinary rail service and you’ll strike up conversations with locals and get a glimpse of everyday

life. But for those who want to experience rail travel in comfort, there are plenty of luxury trains too. Perhaps the most famous historic train is the Palace on Wheels — travelling maharaja-style, with 16 period carriages furnished in classic, opulent Rajput-style. From Delhi, the seven-night circular trip winds its way through Rajasthan, crossing the desert landscapes of the north west and taking in the key sights, from the Taj Mahal to Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur and Udaipur. With all meals included, ﬁve-star accommodation in Delhi before and after rail travel and compact ensuite cabins onboard, the Palace on Wheels is ideal for people wanting to see a lot in a short space of time while always travelling in comfort. You’ll have your own private guide in Delhi and the services of a tour manager onboard, with all off-train excursions guided by expert local English-speaking guides. And if you’ve got time to play with, you can even extend your journey; why not try the beaches of Goa?

the route  Day one: Leave Delhi for Jaipur, travelling overnight.  Day two: Sightseeing in Jaipur, including the Amber Fort. After lunch visit City Palace and Jantar Mantar Observatory.  Day three: Sightseeing in Jaisalmer. Visit sand dunes and take a camel ride with evening entertainment in Jaisalmer.  Day four: Sightseeing in Jodhpur, including Mehrangarh Fort and Jaswant Thada.  Day ﬁ ve: Visit Ranthambore National Park. Depart for Chittaurgarh to see the fort.  Day six: Sightseeing in Udaipur then on to Bharatpur.  Day seven: Arrive in Bharatpur and visit the Keoladeo Ghana Bird Sanctuary. Then to the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort before Delhi.  Cost: An 11-day holiday with seven nights on the Palace on Wheels, including ﬂights, costs from £2,745 per person.

escape with Advantage 45

why

travel spy

Glacier Express

 THE GLACIER EXPRESS, SWITZERLAND BY ANTHONY LAMBERT

46 escape with Advantage

series of spirals and curves. The descent into Val Poschiavo, for example, is so steep and sinuous, it’s actually possible to see the front of the train from the back, but going in a different direction! It’s because of this epic combination of engineering genius and breathtaking landscapes that the railway, between Thusis and Tirano, became a UNESCO World Heritage Site last summer. It’s little wonder the whole railway line carries more than 10 million people a year with 250,000 alone travelling on the Glacier Express. The most romantic way to begin the journey is to stay overnight at St. Moritz and pray for a clear night and sunrise. The following morning, and with the efﬁciency for which the Swiss are renowned, the Express doors close dead on time as the train begins its 7hr 30min journey. Spend a day taking in the stunning views, sipping coffee and enjoying a spot of lunch — it’s amazing how quickly time passes when there’s so much going on outside.

the route  Day one: Arrival. Flight or rail from the UK to Zurich and rail transfer to St. Moritz.  Day two: Free day. Go up to the spectacular Corvatsch glacier or visit the Swiss National Park.  Day three: Today take the world famous Glacier Express for a thrilling ride in the panorama carriage to Zermatt. A three-course lunch is included. Overnight in Zermatt.  Day four: Free day. Explore one of the world’s most popular mountain resorts at the foot of the awe-inspiring Matterhorn.  Day ﬁ ve: Rail transfer to Zurich and return to the UK.  Cost: A 5-day Glacier Express holiday costs from £582pp including ﬂights.

escape with Advantage: for details on great train journeys around the world call FREE on 0800 215 5923 or visit www.loveyourtravelagent.com

IMAGE: SWITZERLAND TOURISM

THE GLACIER EXPRESS between St. Moritz and Zermatt in Switzerland is by far one of the most scenic railway journeys in Europe and regularly touted as one of the things you should do before you die. Crossing 291 bridges, passing through 91 tunnels and mastering the 6,670 ft-high Oberalp pass, the Glacier Express offers landscapes on a grand scale — the kind of views that keep you gazing out the window for hours. Even its carriages are special. Panoramic coaches have clear glazing from below waist height right into the roof so you can appreciate the spectacular views, while an insightful headphone commentary, in eight languages, explains all the sights of interest. It’s not just the scenery exciting travellers — you can’t help but be astonished by the ingenuity of 19th-century builders in forging this Alpine pass. The colossal scale of the mountains is rather daunting as the quaint train climbs through dense forests masking the winding

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For more information and to book call Advantage FREE on 0800 215 5901 Terms and Conditions: This advert should be read in conjunction with the P&O Cruises 2009 fourth edition brochure published March 2009. This brochure contains descriptions of the cruises including stateroom accommodation, itinerary details and port descriptions as well as important information on passport, visa and health requirements and booking conditions which you must read before booking. Price shown is per person based on two adults sharing the lowest grade stateroom for the cruise shown. This offer is subject to availability and the fare is subject to change. This special fare cannot be applied to existing bookings is not combinable with any other promotional or discounted offer. Fares for sole occupancy and supplementary beds are available on request. *Price is inclusive of applicable savings and correct at the time of going to print. On board spending money can be spent in the on board shops, bars, spa and on shore excursions. On board spending money only applies to the ďŹ rst two occupants in a stateroom and cannot be redeemed for cash or applied to existing bookings. Terms and conditions apply.

S1492 Advantage ad indd 1

15/5/09 12:44:26

travel clinic

why

travelclinic The Advantage team is always on hand to sort out your travel queries. Whatever the issue, be it where to go or how to get there, we’re here to help

 I’m travelling to Australia to visit my daughter in November but I’m not sure how to go about getting my visa. Can you help? Nicola, London

IMAGE: ISTOCKPHOTO

Unless you’re an Australian or New Zealand citizen, you’ll need a visa to enter the country. A whole range of visas are in place, including tourist and working holiday visas, and they’re fairly straightforward to sort out. If you’re planning on staying in Australia for up to three months, to holiday, travel around the country or visit friends and family, then you’ll need a tourist visa — or eVisitor. You won’t need a stamp or visa label as the eVisitor is automatically linked to your passport number and it’s completely free. Just ask your Advantage agent for more information on how to apply for visas at the time of booking your trip to Australia.

escape with Advantage: for further details on all the issues discussed in this feature, from arranging holiday visas to hand luggage queries, call FREE on 0800 215 5923

 My wife and I have booked a long weekend in Paris and we’d like to be able to see as much of the city as we can. What’s the best way for us to do this? Alex, Birmingham Why not book a two or four-day Paris city pass through your local Advantage travel agent. The pass gives you free entry to museums, historical buildings and cruises, and enables you to skip the queues and save plenty of time. The pass includes free admission to over 60 top Paris sights and attractions including The Louvre Museum, Picasso Museum, Arc de Triomphe, Chateau de Versailles, Cathedrale Notre-Dame, River Cruise and Open Top Bus Tour, plus free public transport and a map of Paris to ﬁnd your way around. It also enables you to budget for your holiday more easily as all sightseeing will be paid for before departure.

 I’m confused about what I can take as hand luggage on planes, particularly liquids. What are the rules? Emily, Manchester The amount of hand luggage you can take varies with each airline so it’s best to check sizes before travel. But when it comes to what you can actually take as hand luggage, there are some clear-cut rules:  All liquid items, including drinks, creams, sprays, pastes and gels, must be contained in a single transparent, resealable plastic bag, like a small freezer bag.  Each liquid item should be in a separate container with a capacity no greater than 100ml each.  Baby food, essential medicines and dietary foodstuffs can be taken through but might be subject to prior authority from the airline. If in doubt, check with the airline ﬁrst or talk it over with an Advantage agent.

ANY QUESTIONS? If you’ve got any burning travel questions, email the Advantage team at travelclinic@advantagetravelcentres.com Unless stated otherwise, we’ll assume you’re happy for your question to be printed in the magazine.

escape with Advantage 49

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Terms and conditions: All correct answers received by 5 July 2009 will be entered into the draw. The judge’s decision is final. All entrants must be aged 18 years or over, proof of age may be required. There will be no cash alternative, the prize will not be transferable and only one prize will be awarded. The competition is open to all UK residents except employees (and their families) of Absolute Publishing, Kuoni, Advantage and Advantage’s travel agents. Entries must be sent on this original escape magazine entry coupon or visit www.loveyourtravelagent.com to enter online. Prize valid for travel 5 Jul 09 - 31 May 10 staying in a Bungbung room on a room & breakfast basis, subject to availability. Travel dates exclude 1-31 Aug 09, 20 Dec 09 - 10 Jan 10 and 11-17 Feb 10.

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