Skills Group: Departure Lounge Magazine - Winter by Skills | Holidays | Coachstyle

Lounge departure

Winter Edition

Welcome...

Winter Edition | Published Nov 2016 | FREE COPY

magazine

NEW YEAR

to the Winter edition of our annual Departure Lounge magazine.

It’s not too late to getaway for New Year. Find all of our late availability tours inside and we recommend booking soon to avoid disappointment. (see page 2-3)

Christmas is just around the corner and inside you will find our favourite New Year trips with places still available to book (see page 2-3), but with spaces filling fast we recommend booking your place soon to avoid any disappointment.

DRIVER’S TALES Hear all about life on the road as one of our Laver Tour Drivers with a feature article by driver Gary Mee (see page 4)

You will also find our most popular CoachStyle, Skills and Laver Party Breaks (see page 2), where you are invited to join the holiday team, alongside friends and family as we celebrate the festive season together. Following the release of our 3 brand new 2017 summer brochures. Inside we have included a short explanation of new services that we are providing throughout our 2017 CoachStyle, Skills and Laver breaks - including the return of Laver’s Inclusive Holiday Insurance on our holidays travelling for 3 days or more, as well as a new Skills Self Drive option and a range of escorted tours all on selected Skills holidays (see page 3). Finally, we’ve also taken the opportunity to remind you that now is the time to begin reserving your place on your next 2017 adventure. With our largest range of the very best events, breaks and holidays throughout Great Britain and Europe these are already selling out quick. REMEMBER - you don’t have to pay the full amount now; pay a small deposit to reserve your place and pay the full amount just before you travel. Give us a call today and let us help make sure your 2017 is truly unforgettable. - you’re in good company.

PARTY BREAKS There’s still time to join us for a fantastic evening on one of our fabulous Party Breaks coming up at the end of the year (page 2)

GREAT OFFERS Turn to our back page for news about our retail branches and the latest information about our unique coffee mornings (page 12)

GIFT VOUCHERS The Johann Strauss Ball - see our ‘Vienna & The Johann Strauss Ball’ tour p.8

2017 Brochure Launch!

Treat someone special at any time of the year to a Skills Group Holiday Gift Voucher with values from just £5 to £100 you can make any occasion that extra bit special.

OUT NOW: 3 brand new Summer 2017 brochures full of the very best events, breaks and holidays throughout Great Britain and Europe from January to October!

Skills Group Open Day!

Turn to our back page for a special thank you and a feature about our recent Open Day that took place on Sunday 9th October at Skills Head Office (p.12)

financial protection Full details can be obtained at www.bch-uk. org

Skills Holidays, Coachstyle and Laver Holidays are members of the Bonded Coach Holiday Group of the Confederation of Passenger Transport UK Ltd who provide a government approved consumer protection scheme. This ensures that our clients’ monies are protected by a Bond. Book your holiday with confidence book with Skills.

book your holiday today: departures available from notts, derby & leics Sign up to our mailing list to get our NEW holiday brochures, call 08456 66 5544* or visit Skills.co.uk SKILLS TRAVEL SHOPS: Skills Travel & Laver Holidays Nottingham - 3-3a Mansfield Road, NG1 3FB | Skills Holidays: Bulwell - Skills Head Office, Belgrave Road, Bulwell, NG6 8LY; Skills Worldwide Travel: Beeston - 104 Chilwell Road, Beeston, NG9 1ES | Laver Holidays: Derby, Unit 24BCD, Eagle Centre Market, Derby, DE1 2AZ Laver Holidays: Loughborough, 25 Swan St, Loughborough, Leicester LE11 5BL

Tours operated by Skills Holidays, Coachstyle and Laver Holidays. Prices are per person based on two people sharing a twin room (standard inside twin cabin if applicable) and are subject to availability. NIL single room supplements are limited. Terms & Conditions apply. Please call 0845 666 5544* or visit www.skills.co.uk for details. All credit card transactions are subject to a 2.5% charge Head Office: Belgrave Road, Bulwell, Nottingham, NG6 8LY. VAT Reg. No. 660 5538 34 | Skills Travel Limited trading as Skills Holidays, CoachStyle and Skills Days Out company reg in England. No.546349. Registered Office: the white house, Claridon Street, Nottingham NG1 5GF. For Laver Holidays Terms & Conditions see www.Laverholidays.co.uk or see the holiday brochure.

Welcome Back! As we look forward to the Festive season, I wanted to take this opportunity to bring you up to date with some of the latest news from the Skills yard. Since our last Lounge Magazine, we’ve been busier than ever before opening our doors to two Open Days at our Head Office and hosting a number of regular coffee mornings and special events throughout all of our holiday branches across the East Midlands, Derby and Loughborough. 2017 promises to be much of the same as we continue to welcome you along with even more invitations as we introduce more exciting trips and excursions to our programme. As ever, if you have any comments please send them in and in the meantime, see you soon.

YOUR FEEDBACK! On all of our trips we collect feedback from our passengers on various information including the quality of the hotels, excursions, meals and, of course our service. This feedback is incredibly important and please be assured that we take every comment onboard. It helps us to plan for the future, route out problems and strive for a better service each time a coach leaves the yard - Thank you!

In 2016,- 93% of all CoachStyle and Skills passengers rated the knowledge of our drivers and booking staff between ‘Good’ and ‘Excellent’

NEW YEAR LATE AVAILABILITY

Nigel Skill Chairman

4* NEW YEAR IN LAKE GARDA

Escape this New Year and celebrate with friends in paradise! Lake Garda is filled with enchanting towns, delicious cuisine and for New Year we’ve teamed it with an unbeatable New Years Eve package.

7 DAYS from £579

Return ferry sailing; 2 nights’ BB enroute; 4 nights’ DBB in resort; New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner; Excursion to Venice & Verona; Free time in Lake Garda departuredate date departure

HOTEL ****

NEW YEAR IN IRELAND

days (from) (from)s s /supp /supp days

Wed 28 Dec

7 £579 CALL

4 DAYS from £395

This New Year celebrate in true traditional Irish style, come together in a city as rich in heritage as it is in natural beauty, Waterford.

departure date

PICTURE PERFECT SUFFOLK NEW YEAR

days (from) s /supp

Fri 30 Dec

4 £395 CALL

4 DAYS from £349

LONDON’S NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS

WHAT’S NEW FOR 2017? Each year we work continually to ensure our passengers have the best experience possible on all of our trips and 2017 is no exception. Below you will find a number of brand new services that we have introduced to our CoachStyle, Skills and Laver brands. WHAT’S NEW LAVER: • Inclusive Holiday Insurance All holidays travelling for 3 days or more will have personal travel insurance included.

Celebratory drink on coach; 1 night bed & breakfast; Free time in London

departure date

HOTEL ****

days (from) s/supp

Sat 31 Dec

Copthorne Tara Hotel, Kensington

NEW YEAR SOUL PARTY MINI CRUISE

1 nights’ cabin accommodation and full english breakfast; Entertainment onboard; Excursion to York

2 £129 CALL

2 DAYS from £119

• Door-to-Door on all 2 day breaks Now available on our 2-day Laver Savers. • NEW: Super Singles breaks For 2017 we have secured even more single rooms on our programme. • NEW: Club Class Gift Bags All passengers will receive a free travel bag with treats and useful items for your journey.

INCLUDES

departure date

HOTEL ***

4 £299 NIL

2 DAYS from £129

Door-to-Door Service; Club Class coach travel; 3 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Visits to Woodbridge & Clactonon-Sea; Free time in Cambridge & St. Alban’s

Legacy Mill Hotel, Sudbury

days (from) s/supp

Fri 30 Dec

INCLUDES

days (from) s/supp

Fri 30 Dec

4 £349 CALL

WHAT’S NEW SKILLS HOLIDAYS:

*The ship remains in dock at Hull throughout your stay

HOTEL

departure date

days (from) s/supp

Sat 31 Dec

P&O Cruise Ferry

2 £119 CALL

1 CHILD PL

INCLUDES: Local pickups; Welcome drink; 3-course Christmas Lunch; Entertainment

CoachStyle Party Break

INCLUDES: xx; Return coach travel; 1 night dinner, bed & breakfast; Party night with disco & 2-4-1 drinks offers (6pm - 11pm) Free time in Liverpool

Skills Party Break

Sat 21 Jan - 2 Days from £89 INCLUDES: xx; Return coach travel; 1 night dinner, bed & breakfast; Party night with disco; Free time inm Chester

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44* 9am-9pm or3p book online at www.skills.co.uk *calls cost per minute plus your network provider’s standard charge

• Skills Self-Drive Option Drive yourself to the destination and still enjoy the same hotel and excursion itinerary. A Skills representative will accompany you on your break.

• Inclusive Insurance Included in the price on selected holidays.

Christmas Lunch with Skills & Laver Sun 04 Dec - Day Trip ONLY £36

• Extra Pickups & 2-day Park & Ride We have added extra pickups and Park & Ride services to selected tours.

ACE FREE WITH EVER Y PAYING A DULT • Escorted Tours

Party Breaks

data collected from January 1st 2016. Correct as of June 1st 2016.

HOTEL ***

The Georgian Hollies Hotel

Enjoy live entertainment from ‘Soul Kinda Wonderful’ on this special New Year Soul Party! Bringing you the best soul and Motown classics for a night you wont forget.

Celebrate this New Year in luxurious style, with friends, on this beautiful break to Suffolk.

Sat 07 Jan - 2 days from £75

In 2016, - 92% of all CoachStyle and Skills passengers rated the location of the hotels on our trips as between ‘Good’ and ‘Excellent’

departure date

INCLUDES

Return ferry sailing; 3 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast including a Gala Dinner & entertainment on New Year’s Eve; Excursion to Kilkenny

HOTEL ***

3 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Welcome reception; Entertainment, party games & prizes; Happy hour 2-3pm & Late Bar*; Glass of bubbly on New Years Eve; Afternoon Tea; Hotpot supper

On this break you’re sure to see in the New Year with a bang! Whatever you choose to do London promises to be a truly exceptional experience.

INCLUDES

Dooleys Hotel Waterford, Waterford

“Tis the season to be jolly,” and that’s exactly what this brilliant break is all about! Celebrate the New Year with plenty of food & drink in the company of great friends!

4 DAYS from £299

INCLUDES

Hotel Europa, Lake Garda OR Hotel Sole, Lake Garda

NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS IN BLACKPOOL

In a magical kingdom not so far away – somewhere between a place where you wish upon a star and where dreams come true – Disneyland® Paris is a place like no other, a place where make believe comes true and magic fills the air. With 5 incredible themed lands and the Walt Disney Studios® Park you can step into your favourite Disney tales and interact with your most loved DisneY Characters on a holiday you’ll never forget.

INCLUDES

WHAT’S NEW COACHSTYLE: • Extra Pickups & 2-day Park & Ride We have added extra pickups and Park & Ride services to selected tours. • Longer Duration Breaks By popular demand we’ve added extra days on some tours.

• Return ferry sailing • 3 nights’ bed & Continental

breakfast • 4 day Disney park hopper ticket

Ready to use as soon as you arrive!

STAYING AT Disney’s Hotel Santa Fe A fun and exciting place to stay. Located within easy reach of the Disney parks by a free shuttle bus.

REQUEST OUR FREE 2017 BROCHURES TODAY For more information about any of our services for please request your free copy of our new 2017 brochures today by calling: 08456 66 55 44* Or visit: www.Skills.co.uk

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10 FEB - 4 DAYS FROM £369PP Call to book on 08456 66 55 44* 9am-9pm or3pbook online www.skills.co.uk *calls cost per minute plus yourat network provider’s standard charge

9/7/2016

1:03:57

SKILLS GROUP ON THE ROAD LAVER: PICTURE PERFECT SUFFOLK: ON THE HUNT FOR ANTIQUES

ENTERTAINMENT WEEKENDS

Carol Traynor with Robin Stone.

Carol Traynor brought a small bowl for just £4, the bowl turned out to be Quimper Ware from France which ended up being worth an amazing £75.

When I was first asked to trial the ‘hunt for antiques’ day I have to confess I didn’t know what it was, in fact I spent a whole day watching ‘Bargain Hunt’ on catch up TV before our new Picture Perfect Suffolk break. But I’m pleased to tell you that this is now one of the best tours I’ve ever done. On the day of the ‘antiques hunt’ we visited a nearby Antiques centre where the passengers were given £15 and an hour to find a bargain for valuation later that day.

Shirley Wasden with Robin Stone.

Shirley Wasden purchased a thermometer originally from a car that had been modified to the piece you can see in the picture. She paid £20 for it and Robin valued it at £45.

That afternoon, back at the hotel with cakes and sandwiches the group were joined by an expert valuer Robin Stone. Robin evaluated each passenger’s antique and told them exactly what it was worth. He had a great sense of humour and made the experience fun for everyone, we even had a couple of passengers who purchased some really good bargains. I’m already looking forward to doing this tour again next year in June! Written by Gary Mee, Laver Holiday Tour Driver

“I came on this tour because the Bargain Hunt caught my eye, I’m so glad I did because it’s been a great day” Ms Carol Traynor - August 2016

ENTERTAINMENT WEEKENDS IN BLACKPOOL WHAT A GREAT WEEKEND!

The in-house entertainment on Friday started after dinner with a FREE BAR (8pm – 10pm) on all house-drinks, followed by an evening of bingo, quizzes, raffles a live performance and karaoke.

SATURDAY NIGHT AT VIVA The evening was amazing from start to finish! Arriving around 7pm we were shown over to our seats and the show started a little after 8pm.

All night we were singing and dancing along to the resident entertainers who each performed big hits from Michael Bublé, Adele, Beyonce, 80’s music and show tunes (they even did a bit of Disney.) For those who didn’t want to go to Viva, there was another night of entertainment at the hotel. PLUS: Free time in Blackpool. What more could anyone want from a weekend?

Written by Louise Smith, Skills Group Marketing & Designer

NEW TRIPS JAN - APR

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44* 9am-9pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk Tours operated by Skills Holidays and Coachstyle. Prices are per person based on two people sharing a twin room (standard inside twin cabin if applicable) and are subject to availability. NIL single room supplements are limited. Terms & Conditions apply. Please call 0845 666 5544 , visit www.skills.co.uk for or refer to our brochures for full details or terms and conditions.* Calls cost 3p per mintue plus your network provider’s standard access charge. All credit card transactions are subject to a 2.5% charge

3 DAYS from £139

Great times are guaranteed on our NEW Entertainment Breaks in Torquay & Blackpool! With drinks offers, entertainment & excursions this is not to be missed!

INCLUDES

Return coach travel; 3 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Free time in Torquay; Excursion to Exeter

Return coach travel; 2 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Hotel entertainment

TLH Victoria Hotel Leisure Resort, Torquay Georgian Hollies, Blackpool

SCARBOROUGH: DISCOVERING THE YORKSHIRE COAST

departure date

Fri 20 Jan Fri 03 Mar Fri 28 Apr

days (from) s/supp

3 3 3

£139 £20 £139 £20 £139 £20

5 DAYS from £229

Beat the blues this winter and discover the seaside gems along the stunning Yorkshire Coast.

BONNIE SCOTLAND: CASTLE GARDENS & SNOWDROPS

departure date

Mon 13 Feb

days (from) s/supp

£229 NIL

5 DAYS from £359

HOTEL • • • • •

Park Hotel, Tenby

FRENCH EXPLORER

departure date

Mon 06 Mar

days (from) s/supp

£359 £60

3 DAYS from £189

HOTEL • • • • •

On this break we use various 3 and 4 star hotels

MINI CRUISE - ST MALO The ancient walled city of St Malo is considered to be one of the most attractive places in France and a walk through St Malo’s Old Town feels like you’ve stepped back in time..

Return coach travel; 2 nights’ DBB; 1 Packed lunch; Guided tour of Bodnant Welsh Food Centre; Wine & cheese tasting afternoon; Cookery Demonstrations with Beaufort Park’s head chef; Free time in Chester, Conwy & Nantwich

Return ferry sailing; 2 nights’ cabin accommodation; Excursion to St Malo

INCLUDES

Beaufort Park, Mold

EXPLORING PRAGUE

departure date

Sun 26 Mar

days (from) s/supp

£189 £40

7 DAYS from £569

Mon 13 Feb

days (from) s /supp

£339 NIL

6 DAYS from £349

departure date

Sun 26 Mar

days (from) s /supp

£349 £130

3 DAYS from £139

HOTEL • • • • •

Brittany Ferries Cruise Ferry

SIGHTS OF SCOTLAND

departure date

Mon 03 Apr

days (from) s /supp

£139 CALL

3 DAYS from £129

Fancy a getaway from the everyday? Discover Scotland’s fabled and glorious history that will leave you with your own great story to tell.

INCLUDES

Return ferry sailing; 2 nights’ BB en route; 4 nights’ DBB in resort; Walking tour of Prague; Guided tour of historical Pilsen; Visit to Prague Castle & Pilsner Urquell Brewery; Ride on the funicular up to Petrin Hill; Meal in a traditional brewery restaurant

HOTEL • • • • •

departure date

INCLUDES

Without a doubt Prague is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, so go ahead and explore its amazing sights.

Hotel Belvedere, Prague

5 DAYS from £339

INCLUDES

An unmissable treat for any budding chef or food lover! Enjoy this fun tour with included excursions and discover the rich flavours used to make some of the best Welsh food.

HOTEL • • • • •

£99 NIL

Return ferry sailing; 4 nights’ BB in Paris & La Rochelle; 1 night BB in Rouen; Introductory tour of Paris; Free time in Paris; Free time to explore La Rochelle; Visit to Honfleur; Free time in Rouen

Door-to-Door Service; Club Class coach travel; 4 nights’ DBB; Afternoon Tea; Free time in Largs, Irvine & Ayr; Admission to Greenbank Garden & Culzean Castle Garden

WELSH FOOD: TASTES, DEMOS & TOURS

Become a French Explorer on this adventure across France and visit Paris, La Rochelle & Rouen - the perfect mix of history and culture of France.

INCLUDES

Hallmark Hotel, Irvine

SINGLES: PEARLS OF PEMBROKESHIRE

Fri 10 Feb

days (from) s /supp

Door-to-Door service; Club Class coach travel; 4 nights’ DBB; Afternoon Tea; Free time in Ledbury, Tenby, Saundersfoot, Newport, Fishguard & Worcester; Visit to the Lovespoon Workshop

On this break we have gathered together some of the best gardens and woodlands where you can see plenty of snowdrops. We also visit places of historic interest in Scotland.

HOTEL • • • • •

Coppice Hotel, Torquay

departure date

INCLUDES

Return coach travel; 4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Excursions to Beverley, Whitby, Scarborough, York & Bridlington; Optional excursion to Castle Howard

HOTEL • • • • •

Hidden away in South Wales you’ll uncover a beautiful corner of the UK with visits to Saundersfoot, Newport and the Lovespoon Workshop.

INCLUDES

Red Lea Hotel, Scarborough

4 DAYS from £99

More than just a beach spot Torquay has a pretty harbour and elegant Victorian villas. This is the perfect opportunity to visit this popular tourist hot spot, before the Summer season starts!

INCLUDES

HOTEL • • • • •

4 DAY BARGAIN BREAK: TORQUAY

Return coach travel; 2 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Entertainment at the hotel; Excursions to Gretna Green, Dunfermline & Edinburgh departure date

Mon 03 Apr

days (from) s/supp

£569 £137

HOTEL • • • • •

Rob Roy Hotel, Aberfoyle

departure date

Fri 21 Apr

days (from) s /supp

£129 NIL

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44* 9am-9pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

Tours operated by Skills Holidays and Coachstyle. Prices are per person based on two people sharing a twin room (standard inside twin cabin if applicable) and are subject to availability. NIL single room supplements are limited. Terms & Conditions apply. Please call 0845 666 5544 , visit www.skills.co.uk or refer to our brochures for full details or terms and conditions.* Calls cost 3p per mintue plus your network provider’s standard access charge. All credit card transactions are subject to a 2.5% charge

SOUTH COAST ADVENTURE

NEW 2017 Summer Brochure Out Now

Holidays Ltd part of the Skills Group

5 DAYS from £309

LAVER SAVER: SNOWDROPS IN THE COTSWOLDS

INCLUDES

Door-to-Door Service Club Class coach travel 4 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast Free time in Arundel, Worthing, Brighton, Lewes & Eastbourne

Door-to-Door Service 1 night dinner, bed and breakfast Free time in Bourton-on-the-Water Cream Tea Admission to Batsford Arboretum

DURING YOUR STAY

Day 1 – We travel to the hotel in Brighton.

Day 4 – We visit Lewes & Eastbourne.

Day 2 – Enjoy a full day excursion to Arundel and Worthing.

Day 5 – After breakfast we begin our journey home.

Day 1 – We visit Bourton-on-the-Water, regularly voted as one of the prettiest villages in England, here we have arranged a Cream Tea for you to enjoy. Later a hot drink will be served on our arrival at the hotel.

2 DAYS from £119

Day 2 – After breakfast we visit Batsford Arboretum, this is the perfect season to wander through drifts of Snowdrops,daffodils and narcissi. Later we travel home.

Day 3 – Enjoy a free day in Brighton.

Providing the best in Luxury coach travel across Britain and Europe for over 25 years. Each year we try to review our services and breaks to make the experience even better for our passengers and 2017 is no exception. Starting from January we have re-introduced our inclusive holiday insurance for all tours 3 days or more and our popular door-to-door service is now included on our 2 day breaks. Here we have included a selection of our favourite tours departing from January to June. OUT NOW: Request the NEW Laver 2017 brochure, call our team on 0845 666 5544*, visit us at one of our travel shops, online at LaverHolidays.co.uk or email enquiry@laverholidays.co.uk.

SINGLES: SNOWDONIA & THE MERSEY

TOUR DIARY date 12 Jan 13 Feb 20 Feb 25 Feb 04 Mar 06 Mar 13 Mar 18 Mar 20 Mar 27 Mar 27 Mar 03 Apr 03 Apr 08 Apr 09 Apr 09 Apr 14 Apr 14 Apr 14 Apr 18 Apr 18 Apr 24 Apr 29 Apr 01 May 01 May 07 May 08 May 08 May 13 May 15 May 15 May 22 May 22 May 29 May 02 Jun 04 Jun 05 Jun 05 Jun 05 Jun 07 Jun 09 Jun 10 Jun 10 Jun 11 Jun 12 Jun 17 Jun 18 Jun 19 Jun 19 Jun 20 Jun 24 Jun 26 Jun

destination days Lavers Annual Get-Together 4 Singles: Pearls of Pembrokeshire 5 South Coast Adventure 5 NEW Laver Saver: Snowdrops in the Cotswolds 2 NEW Laver Saver: Hereford & Brecon Mountain Railway 2 Bonnie Scotland: Castle Gardens & Snowdrops 5 Singles: Snowdonia & The Mersey 5 Laver Saver: Daffodils & Duxford 2 Windermere Warmer 5 Singles: Yorkshire’s Stunning Coast 5 Scenic Rail Journeys of North Wales 5 Shropshire Secret Gems & Ludlow 5 County Durham & Pennine Landscapes 5 Laver Saver: Bath & Weston-Super-Mare 2 Singles: Scottish Island Memories 5 Escape to the Country & Dean Forest Railway 5 NEW Easter - Enchanting Cheshire 4 NEW Easter in Wonderful Weymouth 5 FILLING FAST: Easter Mystery Tour 4 Constable Country & Seaside Villages 5 Extraordinary Edinburgh & the Kelpies 5 NEW Kent Contrasts: Castles, Gardens & Vineyards 5 Laver Saver: Cambridge & Knebworth House 2 Singles: Luxury in the Scottish Lowlands 5 NEW Guernsey By Air * 7 Scarborough: Gem of the Yorkshire Coast 6 North Devon: Bideford, Bude & Barnstaple 5 FILLING FAST: Elegant Sidmouth & the Jurassic Coast 6 NEW Laver Saver: Dambusters & Lincolnshire 2 Scotland in Miniature 5 Colourful Cornwall: Land of Legends 5 Isle of Wight Experience 5 Eastbourne & the Beautiful South 6 Holy Isle & Northumberland Coast 5 NEW Llandudno & Snowdonia 5 Ilfracombe, Lynton & Exmoor 7 Bournemouth & the Glorious New Forest 5 Warner’s Corton Village 5 Picture Perfect Suffolk 5 Scotland’s Hidden Railways 5 FILLING FAST: Laver Saver: Chatsworth Flower Show 2 NEW Laver Saver: Botanical Gardens & National Trust 2 NEW Jersey By Air* 7 Pembrokeshire & the Gower Peninsula 6 Paignton & Dartmoor Delights 5 Discovering Cornwall’s Charms: St Ives, Lands End 7 Charming Lancashire & Forest of Bowland 5 Chartwell, Leeds & Hever 5 Summer Cruising in the Lake District 5 NEW British Isles Discovery Cruise* 10 Captivating Houses & Gardens of Sussex 5 Norfolk Coast & Country 5

from £259 £339 £309 £119 £119 £359 £399 £119 £419 £369 £399 £399 £399 £109 £479 £379 £299 £339 £289 £399 £399 £379 £119 £459 £679 £459 £349 £599 £119 £419 £429 £389 £449 £399 £429 £519 £409 £429 £419 £399 £149 £119 £669 £459 £429 £599 £379 £409 £479 £1079 £389 £379

* For Air, Rail & Cruise booking please visit our Skills Worldwide Travel Shop in Beeston, Chilwell Road, Beeston, Nottingham, NG9 1ES: ABTA (E0259)

5 DAYS from £399

INCLUDES

Day 3 – Free time at leisure today. Day 4 – We catch the ‘Ferry Across the Mersey’ this morning for a lunchtime break at the historic Albert Dock. After we visit Ness Botanic Gardens. Day 5 – We call into ‘Black & White’ Nantwich for an early lunch, before continuing our journey home.

HOTEL

Beaufort Park Hotel, Mold

This hotel is set in the idyllic North Wales countryside.

SHROPSHIRE SECRET GEMS & LUDLOW

LAVER REF: LXSM

departure date

Mon 13 Mar

ROUTE: CALL

days (from) s /supp

£399 NIL

5 DAYS from £399

INCLUDES

DURING YOUR STAY

Day 2 – We visit National Trust’s Benthall Hall – a family home for 500-years! Our afternoon is spent in Bridgnorth where we have included a return ticket on the funicular railway.

Day 3 – Enjoy a free day today. Day 4 – Visit Acton Scott’s Working Farm. We spend the afternoon in pretty Ludlow. Day 5 – We take you to Warwick for a couple of hours free time before we continue home.

HOTEL

Gainsborough House Hotel, Kidderminster The Gainsborough House Hotel is a listed Georgian house situated in the beautiful county of Worcestershire.

Mon 20 Feb

ROUTE: CALL

days (from) s/supp

£309 £80

5 DAYS from £419

INCLUDES

Day 4 – Enjoying a couple of hours in Lakeside with admission to the Lakes Day 2 – We visit the Rheged Visitor Aquarium. Later we visit Rydal Mount Centre for free time. This afternoon we & Gardens. Here we have a guided have a cruise around Derwentwater. garden tour and a private house viewing which includes a poetry Day 3 – Enjoy a free day today exploring reading of some of Wordsworths’ the ancient village of Shap. Afternoon most famous poems and a glass of Tea will be served at the hotel. wine and a gingerbread.

HOTEL

This classic country house hotel offers spacious rooms and a warm welcome.

KENT CONTRASTS: CASTLES GARDENS & VINEYARDS

LAVER REF: LXWW departure date

Mon 20 Mar

ROUTE: CALL

days (from) s/supp

£419 £60

5 DAYS from £379

departure date

Mon 03 Apr

ROUTE: CALL

days (from) s /supp

£399 £20

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44* 9am-9pm or enquire online at www.laverholidays.co.uk

Tours operated by Laver Holidays Ltd. Prices are per person based on two people sharing a twin room and are subject to availability. NIL single room supplements are limited. Terms & Conditions apply. Please call 0845 666 5544 , visit www.laverholidays.co.uk or see our current brochures for full details terms and conditions. *Calls cost 3p per minute plus your network provider’s access charge All credit card transactions are subject to a 2.5% charge.

St. Kilda Hotel, Llandudno

Built in 1854, this elegant family-run hotel is close to Llandudno’s Victorian seafront promenade.

EASTER IN WONDERFUL WEYMOUTH

DURING YOUR STAY

Day 3 – Enjoy a free day in Folkestone. With Afternoon Tea served at the hotel.

Southcliff Hotel, Folkestone

Overlooking the English Channel, the Southcliff Hotel is situated on the Leas Promenade.

£119 £18

5 DAYS from £399

HOTEL

Day 5 – We travel home

Russell Hotel, Weymouth

Day 2 – Visit RAF Manston Spitfire & Hurricane Memorial Museum, home to the RAF fighter planes of World War II.

DURING YOUR STAY

INCLUDES

Day 1 – Visit Chatham Docks for a tour of Dickens World.

Sat 25 Feb

ROUTE: CALL

days (from) s /supp

Day 1 – We travel to our hotel via Chester. Day 4 – This afternoon we have arranged your final train journey Day 2 – Free day to explore Llandudno. aboard the Llanberis Lake Railway. Afternoon Tea will be served at the hotel. Day 5 – We travel home via Day 3 – Today enjoy 2 great train Trentham Village. journeys: The Ffestiniog Railway, and the Welsh Highland Railway.

INCLUDES

HOTEL

LAVER REF: LBSS

SCENIC RAIL JOURNEYS OF NORTH WALES

LAVER REF: LSSN

departure date

INCLUDES

Day 1 – Travel to the hotel

Best Western Shap Wells Hotel, Shap

Surrounded by countryside this hotel offers stylish rooms designed to provide guests with all the comforts of home.

Door-to-Door Service; Club Class coach travel; 4 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast; Afternoon Tea at hotel; Free time in Chester, Llandudno, Porthmadog & Llanberis; Visit to Trentham; Journey on the Ffestiniog Railway, the Welsh Highland Railway & the Llanberis Lake Railway

LAVER REF: LXWR

departure date

Mon 27 Mar

ROUTE: CALL

days (from) s /supp

£399 NIL

5 DAYS from £339

Door-to-Door Service; 4 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast; Free time in Weymouth; Admission to Bennetts Water Garden; Visit to West Bay, Poole & Bournemouth

Door-to-Door Service; Club Class coach travel; 4 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast; Admission to Dickens World, Walmer Castle & Pashley Manor Gardens; Visit to RAF Manston & Polhill Garden Centre; Free time in Folkestone Journey on the RHDR Railway; Tour & tasting at Biddenden Vineyard

Door-to-Door Service; 4 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast; Admission to Sunnycroft, Benthall Hall & Acton Scott Farm Funicular cliff railway ride Free time in Bridgnorth, Kidderminster, Ludlow & Warwick Day 1 – We travel to National Trust’s Sunnycroft. After a little free time we continue the journey to the hotel.

WINDERMERE WARMER

LAVER REF: LXSE

departure date

DURING YOUR STAY

Day 2 – Visit the Electric Mountain in Llanberis where we have a tour of Dinorwig Power Station. Later enjoy a journey on the Ffestiniog Railway to Blaenau Ffestiniog.

This seafront hotel is less than a mile from the Theatre Royal & the Royal Pavilion Palace.

HOTEL

Jurys Inn, Swindon

Door-to-Door Service; Club Class coach travel; 4 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast; Afternoon Tea at the hotel; Visit to Rheged Visitor Centre; Derwentwater cruise; Admission to Lakes Aquarium; Guided tour of Rydal Mount with a poetry reading, glass of wine & gingerbread.

Door-to-Door Service; Club Class coach travel; 4 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast; Visits to Trentham & Albert Dock; Free time in Porthmadog, Mold & Nantwich; Admission to Electric Mountain & Ness Gardens; Train journey & Mersey Ferry Day 1 – After pickups we travel to Trentham Village. After some free time we continue to the hotel where tea and coffee will be served on our arrival.

HOTEL

Holiday Inn Brighton-Seafront

HOTEL

Day 4 – We have a journey on the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway. Then visit Pashley Manor Gardens for free time to enjoy their annual Tulip Festival. Spend the afternoon at Biddenden Vineyard for a tour and tasting. Day 5 – We travel home via Polhill Garden & Shopping Centre at Sevenoaks. LAVER REFL: LXKC

departure date

Mon 24 Apr

ROUTE: CALL

days (from) s/supp

£379 £36

LAVER SAVER: CAMBRIDGE & KNEBWORTH HOUSE

LAVER REF: LBWY

departure date

Fri 14 Apr

ROUTE: CALL

days (from) s /supp

£339 NIL

2 DAYS from £119

INCLUDES Door-to-Door Service 1 night dinner, bed and breakfast Free time in Cambridge Admission to Knebworth House

HOTEL

Novotel Stevenage, Knebworth Park

ROUTE: CALL

LAVER REF: LSCA departure date

Sat 29 Apr

days (from) s /supp

£119 £15

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44* 9am-9pm or enquire online at www.laverholidays.co.uk

INCLUSIVE INSURANCE BENIDORM

ANDRÉ RIEU IN PARIS

INCLUDES

Return ferry sailing; Inclusive insurance Escorted tour; Breakfast bags; 2 nights’ bed & breakfast en-route; 2 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast en-route; 9 nights’ dinner bed & breakfast in resort; Excursions to Guadalest, Alicante, Altea and Valencia; Free time in resort; Visit to Lladro porcelain factory

HOTEL • • • • •

Hotel Poseiden Resort, Benidorm

INCLUDES

14 DAYS from £659 departure date days (from) s /supp

*Upgrades available*

Mon 23 Jan

Novotel Paris, Creteil Le Lac

14 £659 £195

Return ferry sailing 3 nights’ bed & breakfast Excursions to Brussels, Ypres & Arras

2017 is no different. Travelling further than ever before, this year we have packed itineraries and excursions to some of Europes most renowned events.

Novotel Lille Lesquin, France

OUT NOW: Request the NEW Skills 2017 brochure, call our team on 0845 666 5544*, visit us at one of our travel shops, online at skills.co.uk or email enquiry@skills.co.uk.

NEW CARNIVAL OF VENICE FEATURING VERONA

TOUR DIARY

Return ferry sailing; 2 nights’ bed & breakfast en route; 5 night’s dinner, bed and breakfast in resort; Full day excursion to Verona, Murano & Burano; Return transfers & free time in Venice to enjoy the carnival; Free time in resort

date 21 Jan 23 Jan 27 Jan 28 Jan 28 Jan 10 Feb 13 Feb 15 Feb 17 Feb 18 Feb 25 Feb 26 Feb 02 Mar 04 Mar 11 Mar 14 Mar 16 Mar 18 Mar 18 Mar 20 Mar 24 Mar 25 Mar 25 Mar 26 Mar 26 Mar 26 Mar 30 Mar 31 Mar 01 Apr 01 Apr 03 Apr 03 Apr 03 Apr 07 Apr 09 Apr 10 Apr 10 Apr 14 Apr 14 Apr 15 Apr 17 Apr 21 Apr 22 Apr 22 Apr 23 Apr 24 Apr 28 Apr 28 Apr 28 Apr 29 Apr

4 DAYS from £195 days (from) s/supp

departure date

destination days Skills Party Break 2 Benidorm 14 Brussels, Ypres & Arras 4 Imperial War Museum & Bletchley Park 2 Chinese New Year in London 2 NEW Disneyland Paris 4 Scarborough: Discovering the Yorkshire Coast 5 RENOWNED EVENT: Vienna & The Johann Strauss Ball 7 Mini Cruise - Amsterdam 3 NEW The Carnival of Venice Featuring Verona 8 Railways & Waterways of Lancashire 2 The Waldorf: 5* Luxury in London 2 Amsterdam 4 NEW Mini Cruise - Bruges & Ghent 3 Settle to Carlisle Railway 2 NEW 40s & 50s Vintage Mini Cruise Featuring Amsterdam 3 St Patrick’s Day in Ireland 4 FILLING FAST: Imperial War Museum & Bletchley Park 2 Swiss Alps by Rail: Matterhorn & Mont Blanc Express 8 Dunoon & The Isle of Bute 5 Mini Cruise - Amsterdam 3 FILLING FAST: Spa Break 2 Costa Brava & Barcelona 9 The Waldorf: 5* Luxury in London 2 NEW Welsh Food: Tastes, Demos & Tours 3 NEW French Explorer: Paris, La Rochelle & Rouen 6 André Rieu in Paris 4 Dublin City Break 4 Lake Garda & Venice 9 Severn Valley Railway & Shrewsbury 2 NEW Spring Colours in the Lake District 5 NEW Mini Cruise - St. Malo 3 NEW Exploring Prague 7 London Mini Break 3 NEW Big Band Weekend in Blackpool 2 NEW Kent: TV & Movie Magic 5 The Spectacular Loire Valley 5 Easter in Eastbourne 4 Easter in Yorkshire & The North Yorkshire Moors Railway 4 NEW Settle to Carlisle Easter Special 3 Belfast: Legend of the Titanic & Giant’s Causeway 4 Mini Cruise - Keukenhof Gardens 3 Harrogate Flower Show 2 Bluebells at Kew Gardens 2 All Inclusive Austrian Tyrol 8 Isle of Man 5 NEW Strictly Dance Breaks with Skills 4 NEW Llandudno’s Victorian Extravaganza 3 NEW Cologne & Dusseldorf 4 Bluebells at Kew Gardens 2

from £89 £659 £195 £99 £79 £369 £229 £549 £119 £499 £99 £149 £259 £119 £99 £135 £259 £99 £629 £289 £129 £89 £439 £149 £189 £349 £299 £259 £509 £99 £319 £139 £569 £179 £109 £385 £379 £229 £235 £159 £299 £145 £99 £99 £565 £389 £279 £159 £229 £99

Fri 27 Jan

£195 £75

INCLUDES

Day 3 – Full day excursion to Verona. Day 4 – Join a private motorboat to take you over to Venice for the magnificent Venice Carnival.

HOTEL • • • • •

Hotel American, Lido De Jesolo

This family-run hotel is 50-yards from the beach.

Day 5 – Enjoy a day at leisure. Day 6 – Visit Murano. Afterwards we visit Burano, famous for its lace-making and brightly-coloured fishermen’s houses. Day 7 – 8 – We leave our resort and return to our overnight hotel for 1 night bed & breakfast before arriving home on day 8.

8 DAYS from £499 departure date days (from) s/supp Sat 18 Feb

£499 £125

NEW VIENNA & THE JOHANN STRAUSS BALL INCLUDES

Return ferry sailing; Escorted Tour; 2 nights’ bed & breakfast en-route; 4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast in resort; Guided tour of Vienna; Viennese Waltz dancing lesson with coffee & cake; Ticket to Johann Strauss Ball with 3 course gala dinner, drinks, entertainment & dancing Free time in Vienna

DURING YOUR STAY

Day 1 – Following an early morning we travel to our overnight hotel. Day 2 – Travel to our hotel in Vienna.

HOTEL • • • • •

Hotel Ananas, Austria

Located in the centre of Vienna near the Mariahilfer Straße shopping street.

Thu 30 Mar

£299 £85

HOTEL • • • • •

Queens Hotel, Paignton

INCLUDES

1 night dinner, bed & breakfast; Welcome tea/coffee at hotel; Excursion to the East Lancashire Steam Railway with Cream Tea; Cruise on the AwardWinning Widebeam Canal Boat Kingfisher with a hot drink; Free time

1 night dinner, bed & breakfast; Club Class coach Travel; Settle to Carlisle Railway Journey*; Free time to explore Carlisle

HOTEL • • • • •

Best Western Lancashire Manor

from £99 2 DAYS departure date days (from) s/supp Sat 25 Feb

£99 £15

VALENTINES WEEKEND IN CHELTENHAM & GLOUCESTER

Day 5 – Enjoy a day at leisure. Day 6 - 7 – We wave goodbye to Vienna and travel home.

DURING YOUR STAY Day 1 – We travel to Cheltenham, this Regency spa town offers award-winning gardens and restaurants, splendid architecture and stylish shops.

HOTEL • • • • •

Mercure Gloucester Bowden Hall

Surrounded by beautiful grounds, this elegant hotel boasts stylish rooms.

*N.B. - The journey will not be on a Steam train.

HOTEL • • • • •

Gretna Hall Hotel, Gretna

Wed 15 Feb

£189 NIL

from

£549

days (from) s/supp

£549 £132

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44* 9am-9pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

2 DAYS from £99 days (from) s /supp

departure date

Sat 11 Mar

£99 £15

RETURNING FAVOURITE DUNOON & THE ISLE OF BUTE

DURING YOUR STAY explore the magnificent fan-faulted cloisters and see if you can spot the filming location of ‘Sherlock Holmes’, ‘Wolf Hall’ or ‘Harry Potter!’

2 DAYS from £99

departure date

Sat 11 Feb

days (from) s/supp

£99 £25

Day 1 - We travel to our hotel in Scotland.

Day 3 - Day at leisure, Afternoon Tea will be served in the hotel.

Day 2 - After breakfast we visit the Isle of Bute. Rich in heritage and unrivalled panoramic views this distinct island provides an overwhelming natural experience which is not to be missed.

Day 4 - Scenic drive round loch eck and then an afternoon to Benmore botanical garden.

HOTEL • • • • •

Argyll Hotel, Dunoon

Situated in a landmark 19th Century building, the Best Western Argyll Hotel offers luxury accommodation with majestic views.

Day 5 - After breakfast we go home.

from £289 5 DAYS departure date days (from) s /supp Mon 20 Mar

£289 £40

NEW KENT: TV & MOVIE MAGIC

NEW STRICTLY DANCE BREAKS WITH SKILLS

4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Free time in Cambridge & Chatham Docks; ‘Call the Midwife’ tour; Entry to Knole House & Groomsbridge Place

3 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Dancing entertainment each evening; Dance Workshops on days 2 + 3; Tea/coffee served at hotel; Free time in Leeds, York, Grassington & Harrogate; Self drive option available - Please call

INCLUDES

DURING YOUR STAY Day 1– Visit Cambridge, where “The Theory of Everything” a film based on the life of world famous Stephen Hawking was filmed.

Day 3 – This afternoon visit Groomsbridge Place Gardens & Enchanted Forest, this was the stage for the 2005 film adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic story ‘Pride and Prejudice’. Day 4 – Today we visit Chatham Docks for a “Call the Midwife Tour.”

DURING YOUR STAY Day 1 – After pick ups we make our way to Leeds for free time before heading to the hotel. Tonight’s dinner will be followed by an evening of dancing, our dance leaders will be on hand after dinner. Day 2 – Prepare for your first dance workshop at 10am! Afterwards tea &

Day 5 – We begin our journey home.

7 DAYS

Fri 24 Feb

4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Return ferry crossing to the Isle of Bute; Free time to explore Dunoon; Scenic drive around Loch Eck; Excursion to Benmore Botantical Garden;

Day 2 – Visit Gloucester, this Cathedral city dates back to Roman times. More recently the city has become popular as a film and television location, why not

Day 2 – We head to the National Trust Knole House, recognisable from “The Other Boleyn Girl”.

departure date

4 DAYS from £189 days (from) s /supp

departure date

INCLUDES

Day 3 – Half-day guided tour of Vienna. Afterwards we have a Viennese Waltz dancing lesson and finish the day with a coffee and a piece of cake! Day 4 – Tonight we enjoy the Johann Strauss ball.

from 4 DAYS £299 departure date days (from) s/supp

NEW Club Class coach travel; Breakfast bags on coach; 1 night dinner, bed and breakfast; Welcome drink; Excursions to Cheltenham & Gloucester; Self Drive Option Available - Please call

DURING YOUR STAY Day 1 – 2 – Sail to Calais, tonight we have 1 night bed & breakfast at our overnight hotel before arriving in Venice on day 2.

HOTEL • • • • •

4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Excursions to Exeter; Scenic drive via Dawlish & Teignmouth; Free time in Paignton

NEW RAILWAYS & WATERWAYS OF LANCASHIRE SETTLE TO CARLISLE RAILWAYS

INCLUDES

HOTEL • • • • •

INCLUDES

Return ferry sailing; 3 nights’ bed & breakfast; Introductory tour of Paris; Free time in Paris; Andre Rieu concert ticket; Optional River Seine Cruise

NEW BRUSSELS, YPRES & ARRAS

Skills Holidays aims to offer you the very best in luxury coach exploration and touring across Britain and Europe.

NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENTPAIGNTON 4 DAY BREAK

HOTEL • • • • •

Mercure Brands Hatch, Dartford

A modern hotel situated in beautifully landscaped grounds.

£385 5 DAYS from departure date days (from) s/supp Mon 10 Apr

£385 £75

HOTEL • • • • •

The Cairn Hotel, Harrogate

Grand original features welcome you to this charming Victorian hotel. Located only a short walk from the centre of town.

coffee will be served and then we visit York for free time. Another evening of dancing is planned for tonight. Day 3 – Enjoy a dance workshop followed by refreshments. Afterwards we take you to Grassington. This evening show off your dance moves with dancing after dinner. Day 4 - Enjoy free time in Harrogate before we travel home.

4 DAYS from £279

departure date

Fri 28 Apr

days (from) s /supp

£279 £55

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44* 9am-9pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

LONDON THEATRE BREAK WEEKENDS

2 DAYS from £115

INCLUDES

Return coach travel; 1 night dinner, bed and breakfast; Matinee performance of chosen theatre show; Free time in London; Optional excursion on London Eye

HOTEL • • • • •

Novotel Stevenage

NEW NORFOLK’S JANUARY ESCAPE

departure date

days (from) s /supp

Sat 14 Jan Sat 21 Jan Sat 28 Jan Sat 11 Feb Sat 18 Feb

2 2 2 2 2

5 DAYS

£129 £115 £145 £125 £125

from

£15 £15 £15 £15 £15

£179

INCLUDES

Great value coach trips for even less £££ Our CoachStyle brand prides its self on offering excellent value for money coach trips on a wide range of destinations throughout the UK and Europe. OUT NOW: Request your copy of CoachStyle 2017 brochures, call our team on 0845 666 5544*visit us at one of our travel shops, go online at skills. co.uk or email enquiry@skills.co.uk

TOUR DIARY date 07 Jan 14 Jan 21 Jan 04 Feb 09 Feb 10 Feb 11 Feb 11 Feb 18 Feb 18 Feb 25 Feb 25 Feb 03 Mar 04 Mar 04 Mar 10 Mar 11 Mar 11 Mar 13 Mar 18 Mar 18 Mar 18 Mar 18 Mar 20 Mar 20 Mar 24 Mar 24 Mar 25 Mar 27 Mar 03 Apr 03 Apr 08 Apr 08 Apr 08 Apr 10 Apr 10 Apr 14 Apr 14 Apr 15 Apr 17 Apr 21 Apr 22 Apr 24 Apr 28 Apr 29 Apr 29 Apr 01 May 01 May 01 May 06 May 06 May 08 May 08 May 08 May

destination CoachStyle Party Break London & Harry Potter FILLING FAST: Donny Osmond LIVE in Concert Saturday Specials: Liverpool & Manchester NEW Emmerdale TV Studio Experience FILLING FAST: 4 Day Bargain Breaks: Torquay Cardiff & Bristol London Theatre Break Weekend London & Greenwich London Theatre Break Weekend London & Harry Potter Winter Warmers: York & Whitby NEW Entertainment Weekend Cotswolds & Bath London & Cambridge NEW Super Saver: Mystery Explorer Europe Fawlty Towers London Theatre Break Weekend Torquay London & Harry Potter London Theatre Break Weekend Oxford & Blenheim Palace Saturday Specials: Cardiff & Worcester Isle of Wight Weymouth A Weekend at the Adelphi Scarborough, Whitby & Bridlington UPGRADED: London Theatre Break Weekend Pembrokeshire St Ives Weston-Super-Mare Dr Who Experience London Theatre Break Weekend FILLING FAST: Mystery Explorer Tours Bournemouth FILLING FAST: Rhine Valley Easter in Torquay A Welsh Easter London & Cambridge Isle of Wight FILLING FAST: Sights of Scotland Murder Mystery NEW 4 Day Bargain Breaks: Scarborough NEW Entertainment Weekend London & Harry Potter Leeds & York Cumbria & The Lake District NEW Longer Duration: St Ives Weymouth London & Greenwich Warwick Featuring Shakespeare’s Stratford Bournemouth Mill Rythe Holiday Village FILLING FAST: Rhine Valley

days 2 2 2 2 2 4 2 2 2 2 2 2 3 2 2 3 2 2 5 2 2 2 2 5 5 3 4 2 5 5 5 2 2 2 5 5 4 4 2 5 3 2 4 3 2 2 5 7 5 2 2 5 5 5

from £75 £99 £129 £65 £99 £99 £65 £125 £69 £125 £99 £69 £139 £77 £59 £119 £79 £145 £159 £110 £119 £89 £65 £179 £179 £139 £159 £199 £199 £219 £199 £89 £115 £49.95 £209 £199 £165 £179 £59 £205 £129 £79 £119 £139 £110 £75 £229 £339 £219 £69 £69 £229 £199 £219

Return coach travel; 4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Free time in Great Yarmouth; Excursions to Norwich, Cromer & Sheringham

HOTEL • • • • •

Hotel Victoria, Great Yarmouth

NEW ENTERTAINMENT WEEKEND: TORQUAY

departure date

days (from) s/supp

Mon 16 Jan

£179 NIL

3 DAYS from £139

NEW EMMERDALE TV STUDIO EXPERIENCE

departure date

2 DAYS

£139 NIL

from

£99

INCLUDES Return Coach Travel; 1 night dinner, bed & breakfast; Entrance to Emmerdale TV Studios for guided tour; Free time in York & Leeds

HOTEL • • • • •

NEW PARIS

RHINE VALLEY

Fri 20 Jan Thu 09 Feb

2 2

£99 £15 £99 £15

4 DAYS from £179

Day 1- We travel to our hotel to begin our romantic weekend break. Day 2 - Free time in Liverpool. This grand port has become one of England’s most vibrant cities, bustling with culture and character.

Day 3 - After breakfast we visit the historic town of Chester before continuing our journey home.

This renowned hotel is located in the heart of Liverpool city centre it is conveniently located for leisure and shopping.

FAWLTY TOWERS

departure date

Fri 10 Feb

5 DAYS

departure date

days (from) s/supp

Fri 17 Feb

£139 N/A

2 DAYS from £79

Your mystery hotel will be minimum 2 stars with a bar, restaurant and lift.

ISLE OF WIGHT INCLUDES

Return coach travel; 1 nights dinner, bed & breakfast; Evening themed entertainment at the hotel; Free time in Scarborough & Bridlington

Return coach travel; 4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Nightly entertainment; Excursions to Newport, Ryde; Free time in Sandown; Full day Island Tour

DURING YOUR STAY

Day 1 – Travel to Leeds enjoy this great, thriving city with an abundance of shopping opportunities. In the evening arrive at your hotel for the themed evening.

Day 1 – We travel to our resort for a four night dinner, bed and breakfast stay with entertainment each night.

Overlooking North Beach, this 19thcentury hotel is 1.5 miles from the Scarborough Sea Life Centre.

WESTON-SUPER-MARE

Day 2 – Explore two great towns today; Newport and the seafront town of Ryde.

HOTEL • • • • •

departure date

Fri 10 Mar

days (from) s /supp

£119 £40

5 DAYS from £179

days (from) s /supp

from

£179 £77

departure date

days (from) s/supp

Sat 11 Mar

£79 NIL

5 DAYS from £199

£199

£199 £25

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44* 9am-9pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk/coachstyle

Tours operated by Skills Holidays and Coachstyle. Prices are per person based on two people sharing a twin room (standard inside twin cabin if applicable) and are subject to availability. NIL single room supplements are limited. Terms & Conditions apply. Please call 0845 666 5544 , visit www.skills.co.uk for or refer to our brochures for full details or terms and conditions.* Calls cost 3p per mintue plus your network provider’s standard access charge. All credit card transactions are subject to a 2.5% charge

The Sandringham Hotel

Across the road from the beach, this traditional seafront hotel is a short stroll from the Grand Pier.

Day 5 – Return home after breakfast.

Situated on the seafront the hotel is centrally located in Sandown, with less than 2 minutes walk away from the high street.

NEW SWISS TOWNS & CITIES

departure date

Mon 20 Mar Mon 17 Apr

days (from) s /supp

5 5

£179 NIL £205 NIL

8 DAYS from £449

INCLUDES

DURING YOUR STAY Day 4 – Full day excursion to Ilfracombe, visit the unique Tunnels Beaches, this award-winning attraction is a set of tunnels which provide access to a beautiful area of coastline inaccessible by any other means. Day 5 – Travel home.

Day 2 – We continue to Leysin.

Day 5 – Cross the border into France and visit the pretty town of Chamonix in the French Alps and home to Mont Blanc.

Day 3 – Free day in Leysin.

Day 6 – Full day excursion to Geneva.

Day 4 – Explore Lausanne, home to the International Olympic Committee and Olympic museum.

Day 7 – Travel back to overnight hotel.

Alpine Classic Hotel, Leysin, Switzerland

departure date

Day 1 – After our ferry sailing, tonight we stay at an overnight hotel.

Day 8 – Continue our journey home.

HOTEL • • • • •

HOTEL

days (from) s /supp

Day 4 – Full day Island tour! The coach travels to some of the Isle’s most iconic places including Ventnor, Freshwater Bay and The Needles Park.

Return ferry sailing; 2 nights’ bed & breakfast en-route; 5 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast in resort; Free time in Leysin; Excursions to Lausanne, Chamonix (in France) & Geneva

DURING YOUR STAY Day 1 – We travel to our hotel in Weston-Super-Mare.

Day 3 - Free time in Sandown.

Royal Pier Hotel

Return coach travel; 4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Excursion to Bath and Ilfracombe; Free time in Weston-Super-Mare

Day 3 – Explore Weston-Super-Mare today at your own leisure.

Mon 10 Apr

Day 3 – After breakfast we re-board the coach and begin our journey home.

HOTEL

Now we wouldn’t want to ruin the surprise!

INCLUDES

Day 2 – Visit Bath, a unique destination where you can shop until you drop.

departure date

Day 1 – Following local pickup’s we drive to meet the ferry, and sail across to the continent. When we arrive at the hotel, wherever it may be we enjoy 2 nights bed & breakfast.

Day 2 – Today we will take you on a mystery excursion!

INCLUDES

Return ferry sailing; 4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; 1 hour free bar on 3 nights; Welcome Schnapps wine tasting; 2 nights’ entertainment, fancy dress & dancing; Excursions to Rudesheim, Cochem & Boppard; Visit to the Asbach Brandy Centre

The Hotel Wagner, Kamp Bornhofen

DURING YOUR STAY

Royal Hotel, Scarborough days (from) s /supp

INCLUDES

HOTEL

DURING YOUR STAY

HOTEL • • • • •

INCLUDES

HOTEL • • • • •

INCLUDES Return coach travel; Return ferry sailing; 2 nights’ bed & breakfast; 1 mystery excursion & free time

Day 2 – Enjoy free time in Hull.

Return coach travel; Return ferry sailing; 3 nights’ bed & buffet breakfast; introductory tour of Paris; Excursion to Montmartre and Sacre- Coeur; Optional extra’s

Novotel Creteil Le Lac

INCLUDES

3 DAYS from £119

days (from) s/supp

Fri 20 Jan

departure date

NEW SUPER SAVER: MYSTERY EXPLORER EU

Return coach travel; 2 nights’ dinner bed & breakfast; Visit to Chester; Free time in Liverpool

HOTEL • • • • •

INCLUDES

HOTEL • • • • •

3 DAYS from £139

The Adelphi Hotel, Liverpool

Return coach travel; 2 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Evening entertainment; Use of outstanding leisure facilities; Full programme of daytime activities; Free time in Torquay

TLH Leisure Resort, The Victoria Hotel

VALENTINES WEEKEND AT THE ADELPHI HOTEL

departure date

Mon 03 Apr

days (from) s/supp

£199 NIL

This is a modern hotel with classic décor in the centre of Leysin.

Sat 22 April

days (from) s /supp

£449 £125

MONTHLY SHOP COFFEE MORNINGS A quick reminder that all of our shops hold regular coffee mornings every month. Remember to pop in and have a complimentray hot drink with our friendly, knowledgeable team who are there to answer any questions you may have whilst taking you through some of the newly released tours in our programme. There are also exclusive discounts and promotions at every coffee morning so be sure to stop by.

NOTTINGHAM Next coffee morning: 10am-2pm Thursday 24th November (then every 8 weeks)

T: 01159 507 982

LOUGHBOROUGH Next coffee morning: 10am-2pm Wednesday 23rd November (Then second Thursday of every month)

DERBY Next coffee morning: 10am-2pm Tuesday 22nd November (then first Wednesday of every month)

BEESTON

Next coffee morning: 10am-2pm Monday 21st November (Then first Tuesday of every month)

Recommend a friend for £20 off your next booking! At Skills we appreciate that we’d be nothing without our dedicated return passenger who often spread the word about their trips onto friends and family. Next time a friend books with Skills for the first time as a result of your recommendation, just let us know and we will send you a £20 voucher to say thank you.

DEAL OF THE DAY

Each day we have brand new offers in all of our branches and we regularly rotate our discounts to make sure all of our passengers have the chance to go on our newest and best tours. Call today to find an offer for you.

08456 66 55 44*

BULWELL HQ

Located at our Head Office in Bulwell, Tahlia is always happy to help and our free car parking makes our HQ a convenient location to book!

WE WOULD LIKE THANK EVERYONE WHO JOINED US LAST MONTH FOR OUR ANNUAL OPEN DAY AT SKILLS HEAD OFFICE. Each year we open our doors to our passenger’s, friends and family, inviting them to join the team for a day of exclusive offers, prizes, competitions and entertainment. It was one of our most sucessful events with a special guest appearance from a Queen Elizabeth lookalike!

On Friday 30th September at our Head Office in Bulwell, the Skills team took part in supporting Macmillans Coffee Morning. Thanks to everyone involved we managed to raise a massive £190 for Cancer Research UK!

THANK YO FOR ATTEN U OUR OPENDING DAY

“My wife & I spent a very enjoyable couple of hours at your open day. All the staff we met were very friendly & very helpful. Thankyou for a lovely morning & we look forward to our holidays with Skill’s in the future.” Michael & Susan Fletcher.

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44* 9am-9pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

Tours operated by Skills Holidays and Coachstyle. Prices are per person based on two people sharing a twin room (standard inside twin cabin if applicable) and are subject to availability. NIL single room supplements are limited. Terms & Conditions apply. Please call 0845 666 5544 , visit www.skills.co.uk for or refer to our brochures for full details or terms and conditions.* Calls cost 3p per mintue plus your network provider’s standard access charge. All credit card transactions are subject to a 2.5% charge