WEEKENDS HOLIDAYS
LEISURE
ADVENTURE
SOCIAL
www.spiceuk.com
Autumn 2013 Spice is the UK’s leading adventure, social and leisure group. Enjoy a jam-packed social life with over 100 events every month to choose from. All events are arranged for you, all you have to do is book and turn up. Spice membership is equivalent to a glass of wine or a ‘designer’ coffee a week.
Be part of it and join today to make friends, meet people, have fun
welcome! Hello and welcome to our Autumn newsletter, and another huge batch of excitement, fun, entertaining events for you to get out there and make a difference to the quality of life, all in an instant! Once again, if you’re new here, the front and back sections relate to things of interest to the whole of Spice around the country, and the middle section from page 7 onwards, relates to your local Spice Group. However, much as we try, this newsletter is pretty much out of date the day it is sent to the printers, so with new events being added every day to the Spice Programme, do keep an eye on the website listings to keep up to speed and not miss anything. We also communicate with our members with weekly email updates dropping in to your in box, along with our Facebook pages. Our National Spice Facebook Page is found at www.fb.com/spiceuk and all the local Groups Facebook pages have links to them there. It’s great fun to see the newsfeeds swell with photographs and posts after each weekends events, and we love to see what you have been up to around the Spice world. With the darker nights now approaching, you are perfectly positioned to make sure you keep the momentum up and reach a few of your own goals! If its health and fitness on your training list, Spice can help you with that with all the walks and activities on offer, which has got to be more fun than the gym, or jogging round the park. Get that bucket
list out (if you haven’t got one yet – write one today!) and decide what thing you are going to knock off it in the coming few weeks. Being a member of Spice brings so many opportunities on a plate for you, with people to do them with and all the organisation taken care of, so let’s do that Scuba Dive, Tandem Skydive or Fire Breathing workshop, and live life to the full. You’ll find it’s the usual story, get that first ‘pickle’ out of the jar, and the rest will tumble out no problem! Christmas and New Year fall in this quarter, and again, Spice will be here presenting you with a myriad of opportunities, parties, weekend breaks and holidays. However be fair warned they tend to book out soon, so remember the Spice motto – you snooze, you lose – you rest, you rust (lol) and get that Christmas Party booked and in your diary! We have selected a few festive events to give you an idea of what’s available, and do check out the websites. So, I guess- given I won’t be speaking to you until 2014 – I could be the very first to wish you a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year 2014!!
Dave National co-ordinator
Lauren Fawkes
Neal Morris
Richard Coulter
Spice Manchester
Spice Yorkshire
Spice West Midlands
meet the team
Steve Dell
Jamie Morris
Spice East Midlands
Spice Scotland
Dianne Livingstone Dominic Renshaw Spice London and Spice
Spice Thames Valley & Solent
Bristol / Cardiff
We are excited to put the spotlight on our greatest asset, the members and will be featuring two or three Member Profiles each edition.
Donna Beanland Group: Manchester Group Member for: 2 years
Pip Gorringe Group: West Midlands Member for: 2 years
Why did you join Spice ? I joined Spice as I found that with a combination of work commitments, and my friends getting married, I was being restricted as people either could not afford to go out as much or had family ties and didn’t want to. I wanted to meet like minded people who wanted to have fun, were social and out to make friends and just have a great time. Spice fitted around my commitments and filled in the gaps!
Why did you join Spice? Because I was in desperate need of a social life. There are only so many times that you can stalk yourself on facebook...
What has been your favourite event? .I have struggled to pick one event. From clay pigeon shooting to Llama Trekking, from Hangover Hobbles to a day at the races I have loved all of my events and try to book on as much variety as possible...you have to try these things! What would be your advice for a new member? Stick with it and don’t be scared! We all had a first event and know how much courage it takes so embrace it, I promise it pays off. I went to a few events before I found my feet and felt comfortable. I nearly gave up after the first couple of events but then you see the same friendly faces and get to know people and, as much as it sounds a cliché, it does feel very much like an extension of my family with some of the friends I have made. I’ll never forget the advice someone gave me when joining Spice...look for freedom, friendship and fun! What is your funniest memory in Spice? Funniest memory...shouldn’t be admitting this as opening myself up to women driver comments! On the way to an event, this weekend, I followed the sat nav to the letter. When it told me to go right I did...up a public footpath. Knowing I was 800 yards from where I needed to be, and I was looking for a farmhouse, I carried on over what appeared to be a bridle path getting narrower and narrower. Still I carried on and ended up in a field. Now only 400 yards from where I needed to be I drove across the field and over a path only suitable for a 4x4 with its rocky road (God bless my Fiat 500). Still I continued and went across another bridle path before joining the road again. Looking back I do not know how I made it through the narrow public footpath but I did... never be late for an event, even if it means literally going across country!! Safe to say I followed someone else home... What is your life philosophy in one sentence? I always live by the philosophy that you only get one shot in life and you should take it. Never have regrets and live your life to the max. Most treasured belonging? What could I not live without my family and friends were my immediate choice, without hesitation. The more I thought about it the more I realised, rather sadly, that my phone needs to be on this list!
What has been your favourite event? The summer ball by far! I met some of my greatest friends at the summer ball so I will never forget it. What has been your most challenging event? I don’t do challenging events! I’m more of the sitting and drinking events kind of girl... What is your funniest memory in Spice? Getting up on stage with Jimmy Carr! Hilarious! What would be your advice for a new member? JOIN and don’t look back! Say hello to everyone and get yourself in the middle of it. No one at Spice is thinking ‘I don’t want to make any friends’. Everyone will welcome you, everyone will talk to you and everyone wants to be your friend! Have you been on a Spice UK Holiday? Not yet - watch this space! Have you an embarrassing Spice moment? You’re not a proper spicer if you haven’t made a complete tit of yourself, and I honestly wouldn’t know where to begin! What is your life philosophy in one sentence. I’d rather regret the things I did do, than the things I didn’t! Four people (alive or dead) you’d invite to your dream dinner party? NO ONE! More food for me :D ....... And possibly my daughter... I can never seem to get a babysitter... Your favourite movie? Phantom of the opera. Hands down. Most treasured belonging? My phone. I’m literally attached to it. Most people would assume my daughter, but no, it’s my phone.
Ian Lucas Group: West Midlands Member for: Over 10 years Why did you join Spice? I’d had heart surgery the year before and my New Year’s Resolution was ‘To Surprise Myself’. I trolled along to a preview at Warwick Arts Centre because I thought the listing for it was mad. I just fell in love with the whole idea. What has been your favourite event? I love the ones where you do surprise yourself – fire eating, abseiling (I HATE heights) hanggliding. My first event was snake fondling. What is your funniest memory in Spice? Almost getting married by accident in Las Vegas when a bride turned up at my door ... What would be your advice for a new member? Don’t censor yourself. Have you been on a Spice UK Holiday? Have I ever – highlights being Sri Lanka, the Rockies, Grand Canyon rafting experience (I hate getting wet and hate camping, but it was an absolute blast) Moscow/St Petersburg (where the Tour Leader got arrested in the Kremlin for unfurling a Spice Banner), new year in New York and most recently Iceland (the Northern Lights were awesome, and we met Bill Oddie by accident) Have you an embarrassing Spice moment? I represented SPICE on a competition on my first holiday on a Caribbean Cruise where the MC dared contestants to wear a bra and remove our ‘pants’ – fortunately the lovely Louise Davies reminded me that ‘Pants’ was American for trousers and not underwear, before I made a complete spectacle of myself ... What is your life philosophy in one sentence? Break hearts, wind and rules Four people (alive or dead) you’d invite to your dream dinner party? All 11 Doctor Whos (technically 1 person...), Bear Grylls (he brings his own drink...) Lizzie Windsor (so she could drop the airs and graces and leave that dreadful Philip behind), Bobby Farrell of Boney M (I learnt all my dance moves from him!) Your favourite movie? The Wizard Of Oz – but Brokeback Mountain really broke my heart. I’ve never been the same since.
It won’t be long now before the festive season is once again in full swing, and obviously Spice will be presenting you with a veritable array of amazing parties and weekends away packed full of festive cheer! Here’s a brief listing of some of the things you could consider to lighten up the dark nights, and make
sure you see 2012 out in style. It’s no way an exhaustive list, with many many meals and other holiday themed events, so as ever, keep on eye on the websites, but here’s a glimpse of some of the balls, Parties and Breaks available to you over the holidays… All details on your local Spice Group Website.
Bristol and Bath Christmas Markets Weekend Christmas Party Weekend, Center Parcs, Whinfell, Cumbria Spice National Christmas Break, Manchester (Hilton) Twixmas Walking Break , Lake District, Borrowdale Twixmas Walking Snowdonia Twixmas Walking White Cliffs Dover New Year Walking Break, Horsely & North Downs New Year Walking Break, Lake District, Borrowdale New Year Walking Break, Snowdonia New Year Nottinghamshire Walking / Social Break Edinburgh Hogmany, Scotland Venice New Year Break London New Year Break & Cruise
Fri 29th Nov – Sun 1st Fri 6th Dec – Mon 9th Tue 24th Dec – Fri 27th Fri 27th Dec – Sun 29th Fri 27th Dec – Sun 29th Fri 27th Dec – Sun 29th Sun 29th Dec – Wed 1st Sun 29th Dec – Wed 1st Sun 29th Dec – Wed 1st Sun 29th Dec - Wed 1st Mon 30th Dec – Wed 1st Mon 30th Dec – Thu 2nd Jan Tue 31st – Wed 1st
£189 £139 £259 £185 £179 £179 £329 £339 £329 £299 £259 £629 £245
Spice Manchester Festive Friday Dine & Dance Spice Manchester Crazy Wendys Christmas Party Spice East Midlands Christmas Dinner Dance Spice West Mids Christmas Dinner Dance Spice Bristol Christmas Party Spice London Christmas Casino and Party Night Spice Kent Christmas Party & Meal, Fawkham Spice Guildford Christmas Party & Disco Spice Manchester Christmas Masked Ball Spice Yorkshire Christmas Ball
Fri 29th Nov Fri 13th Dec Fri 20th Dec Sat 14th Dec Sat 14th Dec Sat 14th Dec Wed 18th Dec Sat 21st Dec Sat 21st Dec Sat 21st Dec
£25 £27 £34 £46 £46 £33 £45 £46 £37 £25
Spice Scotland Hogmanay Break, Edinburgh Spice Manchester New Year Glitz and Glam Party Spice Yorkshire NYE Ceilidh Party Spice East Mids NYE Party, Nottingham Spice West Mids NYE Party, Magical Circus Sleepover Spice London NYE Cruise Party, Spice London NYE Party, Cobham Spice London NYE Party, Cobham Spice Scotland January Ball
Mon 30th Dec – Wed 1st Tue 31st Dec Tue 31st Dec Tue 31st Dec Tue 31st Dec Tue 31st Dec Tue 31st Dec – Wed 1st Tue 31st Dec Sat 11th Jan
£259 £37 £34 £35 £109 £159 £175 £35 £40
Ski Christmas, Tignes France Ski New Year, Chamonix, France Venice New Year Break
Sat 21st – Sat 28th Dec £775 Sat 28th – Sat 4th Jan £999 Mon 30th Dec – Thu 2nd Jan £629
WHEN Tue 24 Dec 2013 - Fri 27 Dec 2013 (Arrive from 12 noon) WHERE The Double Tree By Hilton, Manchester M1 3DG COST £ 259 Member Twin Share/Double, £279 Guest Twin Share/Double,
£339 Member Single, £359 Guest Single (Deposit £50) *Early bird price until 1st November when price increases by £30 Includes • 3 nights’ accommodation with breakfast, • 2 x 3 course evening meals • 1 x evening buffet • 3 course Christmas Dinner in the fabulous Spice exclusive Skylounge • Mulled Wine & Mince Pies on Xmas Eve, Cocktail Making Class • Treasure Hunt & much more! This Christmas we are thrilled to be staying at the 4* Double Tree Hotel by Hilton in Manchester. Christmas eve dinner will be a 3 course meal at the delightful City Café Restaurant (the name doesn’t do it justice – this is fine dining at its best!). Then if you have the energy, there is the option of late night mass or a visit to Canal Street or The Northern Quarter for a lively atmosphere. Be back for midnight if you don’t want to miss out on our mulled wine and mince pies at the hotel! Christmas day will comprise of breakfast, followed by Secret Santa before we head up to the fabulous Skylounge for our 3 course exclusive Christmas dinner – the Skylounge is a private glass walled penthouse room with fabulous views over the City Centre and beyond, and we have it all to ourselves. How often do you get to enjoy Christmas dinner whilst admiring the Manchester skyline from daylight to dusk? We will be served a light evening buffet in our Spice breakout area in the evening before we have the option to head out in to party in Churchill’s bar in the Canal Street area a few minutes’ walk away. On Boxing day after breakfast there is a treasure hunt in the city centre, you can enjoy some retail therapy or simply just take the time to explore. In the evening we sit down to our 3 course meal in followed by a cocktail making class; expect bottle juggling and plenty of high spirits. Then for those with the energy we can head out to party again in one of the local bars! On the final day you will enjoy a buffet breakfast before saying our goodbyes. However subject to numbers there will be the option of a canal walk to Castlefield Basin a few miles away and to have lunch (extra) in one of Castlefield’s lovely bars. Accommodation: The Doubletree by Hilton provides for a comfortable stay in contemporary surroundings. All bedrooms are air-conditioned and have Apple iMacs, complimentary WiFi access, Skype and an array of satellite & digital channels, a mini fridge and tea & coffee making facilities. All bathrooms have power showers & hairdryers and bathrobes are provided by the hotel. There are two bars to relax in serving an array of drinks and of course we have our Spice exclusive breakout area in the mezzanine area of the hotel where we can relax, chat & generally socialise. We have a maximum of 40 places for this event, so don’t snooze & lose!!!
WHEN Fri 6 Dec 2013 - Mon 9 Dec 2013 WHERE Whinfell Forest Holiday Village, Penrith CA10 2DW COST £139 Member Twin/Double Share, £159 Guest Twin/Double Share,
£214 Member Single Occupancy (Deposit £50 Member Twin/Double Share, £70 Guest Twin/Double Share, £50 Member Single Occupancy) Extras Single Supplement of £75 Includes •
welcome drinks
•
an exclusive Disco
•
l ate Disco until the early hours on Saturday night. (Our easy Sat Night Disco fancy dress theme this year is ‘Christmas Around the World’ which helps us recognize who’s in our party!)
•
Fun Quiz
•
Sports Events
•
Flash Mob Meet up
•
Group Swim the rapids
•
Ten Pin Bowling
•
Farewell Drinks, etc.
Country lodges situated in deep forest in, beautiful surroundings paths leading to an unrivalled choice of sports and leisure facilities, health and beauty treatments, restaurants, cinema, cafes, bars...all just a short stroll or cycle from your lodge. The ultra modern, state of the art World of Water offers an incredible swimming experience with heated pools, flume rides, wave machines, jacuzzis, wild water rapid rides, water cannons and much more - including the mud treatment room! All Lodges are fully furnished, warm and very comfortable and hold 6 people – two twin rooms and one double (single supplement for double is £75). The fully equipped lodge includes microwave, fridge / freezer, telephone, satellite TV, bathroom, patio and barbecue area. As usual with Spice Events - don’t hesitate to book as an individual as we will find you a roommate and once you have met up with your lodge - you’ll quickly be part of our big happy family Food is not included but easily available from the on site supermarket, pub, bars and restaurants.
WHEN Mon 30 Dec 2013 - Wed 1 Jan 2014 WHERE Edinburgh - Home of Hogmanay EH4 1PW COST £259 Member, £279 Guest (Deposit £50) Includes •
nights bed and breakfast at the Travelodge Learmonth Grove (a short 2 walk to the city centre),
•
Ticket for the Torchlight Procession
•
Hogmanay Street Party ticket
Edinburgh’s Hogmanay welcomes 2014 in style, with over 200,000 revelers enjoying spectacular events throughout the New Year. Now entering its 21st year, Edinburgh’s Hogmanay 2013 promises to be the biggest and best party ever and Spice Scotland invite you to join us! This year Headlining are The Pet Shop Boys! We are delighted to offer a superb 2 night break to experience the world famous Edinburgh’s Hogmanay. Including live music stages, giant screens, light and laser shows and the spectacular Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Midnight Fireworks. You arrive on Monday. We will then head to Edinburgh’s Royal Mile for the stunning Torchlight procession. We’ll head out for some evening drinks afterwards. Tuesday is yours to explore the city. Ice Skating on Europe’s largest outdoor manmade ice rink is always popular or perhaps an afternoon dance at a local Ceilidh. During the evening you will have the option to book on our Hogmanay Champagne Dinner. After dinner we head the Hogmanay celebrations. The big stage, live music and a great atmosphere – this is one of those nights everyone should experience. For those who still have the energy on Wednesday morning there will be the chance to book The Loony Dook – a fancy dress dip in the Forth of Firth – brrrrrr. A fantastic break and one of the best reviewed in the Spice programme. Spaces will go fast so please book early.
Spice Gallery
Recent Events
Sack Race at School Sports
Brave Wing walker
Ballooning over Yorkshire
Llama Trekking
Color Run Volunteers
Surf School
Zebra Crossing
Adrenalin Junkie
Key Spice Holiday Partners For many years Spice has enjoyed an excellent relationship with our travel partner Exodus Holidays – the UK’s leading adventure travel company.
5% discount for independent direct bookings! We know however that sometimes our scheduled group departures won’t always fit in with everyone’s personal travel needs. We also know that often members would like to visit some of the places we are not featuring in the group holiday programme… To book your independent holiday with Exodus and claim your Spice member discount call 0845 863 9606. To qualify for the Spice Discount, simply advise them you are a Spice Member AT THE TIME OF BOOKING. This discount cannot be used in conjunction with any other discount, i.e., you are unable to add Loyal Customer Discount with an Early Booking discount to your Spice Discount!
5% Discount with Club Dance Holidays We are delighted to be working with Spice to promote our dance holidays whether it is salsa, Ceroc, ballroom or tango we cover it all – UK weekends or 7 or 14 night breaks . Club Free Sprit have taken 23,000 customers to various destinations over the years from Cuba, Miami, Jamaica to Calpe, Spain, Austria and Malta. We have increase our portfolio of activities from dance to fitness, ski and golf. In order to qualify for the Spice Discount, simply call reservation number on 0207 099 4816 and let them know you are a Spice Member AT THE TIME OF BOOKING. This discount cannot be used in conjunction with any other discount, i.e., you are unable to add Loyal Customer Discount with an Early Booking discount to your Spice Discount! SOLOS Regretfully SOLOS have withdrawn their Spice Member Discount as from 1st August 2013.
Spice Cancellation Policy
Information Packs. Cancellation must be in writing. A back up phone call is recommended. You should assume you are still booked until you have written confirmation of your cancellation.
Providing you give us more than seven days (includes weekends and bank holidays) notice you will receive a full refund as a Credit Note, less a Cancellation Fee of 20% of the cost of the event OR loss of deposit (whichever is lower) with a minimum of £3. (Except where stated otherwise in the Newsletter event description). Credit Notes are valid for 12 months and only redeemable against events.
General
Ticketed events
Should Spice Cancel an event.....
Evening and one day events
Note: Theatre, Concerts, etc. These are non-refundable unless we can resell your place, as tickets will have already been purchased. Overnight Events and events costing over £100 Note: This excludes overseas trips which have a separate Holiday Cancellation Policy. Providing you give us more than twenty eight days (includes weekends and bank holidays) notice you will receive a full refund as a Credit Note, less a Cancellation Fee of 20% of the cost of the event OR loss of deposit (whichever is lower). (Except where stated otherwise in the Newsletter event description). Credit Notes are valid for 12 months and only redeemable against events.
Holidays and Overseas trips Note: More than three overnights or outside UK. Cancellation is as per the Tour Operators Terms and Conditions as supplied with Holiday
Where cancellation is received within the cancellation period prior to an event, you will lose all monies paid (and also be liable for any balance) unless we can replace you. If you simply do not turn up for an event without contacting us you will automatically forfeit any monies paid, and will be liable for any balance. Should Spice cancel any event you will be refunded directly back by the payment method used. Our policy is that wherever possible we will always issue a refund.
Holidays and overseas trips Note: more than three overnights or outside UK. Cancellation is as per the Terms and Conditions as supplied with Holiday Information Packs. Cancellation should be in writing. Where cancellation is received within the cancellation period prior to an event, you will lose all monies paid (and also be liable for any balance) unless we can replace you. If you simply do not turn up for an event without contacting us you will automatically forfeit any monies paid, and will be liable for any balance.
Spice International Holiday Programme As at 15th September 2013
Welcome to the Spice international holiday programme, available to all Spice members as an exclusive benefi t of membership! Over the years Spicer’s have travelled with us to every corner of the world enjoying action and adventure, amazing sights, interesting cultures and always great company with plenty of laughs along the way! Whether you’re after an easy going leisurely break, an active walking week or a trip of discovery we hopefully have something to suit. Over the next few pages we’ve picked out a few of our current holidays to highlight plus there’s a full listing of everything currently available including some of next seasons ski trips (more to follow so keep an eye on the web and Facebook!). If you do find something that you want some more information for then more information is available on the Spice UK website www.spiceuk.com – alternatively if you want to discuss anything at all don’t hesitate to call Spice UK on 0161 873 8788.
Happy holidays from your Spice UK team – Dave, Ian & Lindsay
Spice Holidays Date
Nights
07/10/13
7
09/10/13
5
10/10/13
7
15/10/13
7
03/11/13
3
04/11/13
4
10/11/13
4
21/12/13
7
28/12/13
7
30/12/13
3
11/01/14
7
2013/14
Spice Trip Turkey Gulet Cruise Holidays don’t come much more chilled than this!
Lake Garda Autumn Special Always a popular trip with Spice including 3 hours free bar on 4 evenings!
La Santa Sports Holiday A brilliant sports holiday & this will be our 28th consecutive year!
Crete – Yoga & Walking! Combining walks with beachside yoga and delicious local cuisine – a Solos holiday!
Mickey’s Magical Fireworks & Bonfire (Euro Disney) Travel by coach Dover/Calais inc 2 day Hopper Ticket
Mickey’s Magical Fireworks & Bonfire (Euro Disney) Travel by coach ovrenight Hull/Zeebrugge inc 2 day Hopper Ticket
Iceland Discovery Visit the land of Fire & Ice and may be even experience the Northern Lights!
Ski Christmas –Tignes Ski the massive Espace Killy this Christmas!
Ski New Year – Chamonix Our 3rd year to this resort and always with fantastic feedback!
New Year Mini Break – Venice (almost!) Enjoy New Year in Italy with Spice!
Ski St. Christoph – Austria A definite skier’s resort without all the distractions of too many bars!
Deposit
Price from
n/a
£799
Waitlist only n/a
£629
n/a
£1019
n/a
£369
n/a
£419
Waitlist only £130
£775
£130
£999
£150
£629
£130
£749
Date
Deposit
Price from
Ski Sauze D’Oulx – Italy
£130
£599
Ski Val D’Isere
£130
£689
Ski Deluxe
£130
£739
Ski Alpe D’Huez – France
£130
£649
Nights
18/01/14
7
26/01/14
7
02/02/14
7
01/03/14
7
05/03/14
10
09/03/14
7
09/03/14
7
15/03/14
7
22/03/14
7
09/03/14
4
15/03/14
7
16/03/14
4
10/04/14
3
02/05/14
3
14/05/14
4
18/05/14
7
06/06/14
3
14/06/14
8
17/06/14
12
19/06/14
3
05/07/14
9
02/08/14
20
09/09/14
13
14/09/14
6
29/09/14
7
Spice Trip Great skiing & plenty of place’s to party! This price for 1st 10 bookers then £50 increase! A Mark Warner holiday – ski the huge Espace Killy! A small group trip for just 12 in a beautiful Mark Warner chalet! High altitude skiing! This price for 1st 10 bookers then £50 increase!
Ski Canada – Banff
Regional flights available at no extra charge!
Waitlist only
Ski Meribel
£130
£764
Austrian Ski Jive Spectacular
£130
£590
Ski Morzine – France
£130
£694
£130
£699
A Mark Warner holiday – ski one of the world’s most famous areas! Book direct with our new Spice Partner. £140 Early Bird discount included until 31 Oct! A first for Spice & a huge ski area!
Ski Mayrhofen – Austria
One of Austria’s favourite resorts and a short transfer! This price for 1st 10 bookers then £50 increase!
Arctic Dog Sledding
An amazing wilderness adventure with 3 days Husky mushing above the Arctic Circle!
Walking in Lanzarote
Price includes an Early Booking Discount until 1st Nov!
Arctic Dog Sledding
An amazing wilderness adventure with 3 days Husky mushing above the Arctic Circle!
Waitlist only £150
£799
Waitlist only
Rome Mini Break
£150
£399
Granada Delights – Mini Break
£150
£465
£150
£699
Cultural Andalusia
£150
£799
Hidden Gems of Barcelona
£150
£469
Western Canada Highlights
£150
£1895
Best of the Baltics Cruise
£150
£979
Italian Cuisine
£150
£669
Sicily – Myths & Legends
£150
£1089
Best of the West
£270
£2685
Grand Canyon Rafting Experience
£250
£2899
The Italian Lakes
£150
£979
Turkey Autumn Chillout
£150
£565
Enjoy a short break away to this wonderful city! A lovely weekend break – enjoy Tapas & the Alhambra!
Moscow Discovery
Moscow Discovery – subtext should now read The Kremlin, Red Square, Bolshoi Theatre – a break with a difference! Enjoy the cultural delights of Spain! Get under the skin of this great city with our local guide & party with the locals! Banff, Jasper, Whistler, Vancouver & Victoria – enjoy stunning Canada with Spice! Visit Tallinn, St. Petersburg (including 2 excursions), Helsinki, Stockholm & Copenhagen! Prepare pasta & chillout on the great lake! Join us and explore this magical island! Experience the West of America from San Francisco to Las Vegas and lots in between! The Ultimate Spice Experience!
Enjoy Como, Maggiore & Garda on this wonderful break! Our 8th consecutive year and it’s as popular as ever!
All Spice UK air holidays are protected by the Civil Aviation Authority under the ATOL scheme in the event of failure of the tour operator. Each tour operators ATOL number is stated at the end of every holiday write up on our website www.spiceuk.com plus full terms and conditions. Your money is protected via our Trust Account in compliance with EC Package Travel Regulations.
Highlighted Holidays TURKEY COAST CRUISE 8 days, Mon 7th October 2013 from £799 Flights from London Gatwick & Manchester • A real Spice favourite • If you want to relax then look no further Sailing from Marmaris in the clear turquoise waters of the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas you will discover the delights of the Turkish Coast. The Captain and crew expertly handle the traditional sailing gulet, East Meets West leaving you free to explore the secluded coves and bays. You’ll have no worries about cooking meals, sailing or dropping anchor.
CRETE – YOGA & WALKING 7 days, Tue 15th October 2013 from £1019 Flights from London Gatwick & Manchester • A first for Spice & all rooms sole occupancy • Combine scenic walks with 5 yoga sessions Experience the real Crete on a holiday with a difference, combining scenic walks in the stunning countryside, relaxing beachside yoga and delicious local cuisine. This is an easy, entry level holiday with neither walks nor yoga sessions too taxing (hopefully!). Feel invigorated and refreshed as you not only revitalize your body, but your mind and soul too.
MICKEY’S MAGICAL FIREWORKS 4/5 days, Mon 4th November 2013 from £369/£419 Coach from south via Dover / Coach from North via Hull • 2 day Hopper Ticket included • Staying at a Disney Resort Hotel Everyone loves Mickey Mouse and this great value short break to Euro Disney by coach gives you the opportunity to be a big kid once again! With regional coach pickups available and the choice of an overnight ferry crossing from the North or shorter crossing from the South this is your chance to enjoy the wonderful World of Disney with Spice!
NEW YEAR MINI BREAK – VENICE (almost!) 4 days, Mon 30 Dec 2013 from £629 Flights from London Gatwick & Manchester • New Year’s Eve Party included • Experience New Year Italian style This is something a little bit special and we are pleased to be able to offer you this wonderful mini break to Treviso, nr Venice. While it isn’t actually Venice itself (we did look at it and you would not believe the price!), Treviso is the next best thing! A small town near Venice we have a lovely 4* hotel for you to enjoy plus a fabulous New Year’s Eve Party that should really be something to look forwards too!
SKI CHRISTMAS 8 days, Sat 21st Dec 2013 from £775 Flights from Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol & Edinburgh • Spend Christmas on the slopes • Ski one of the world best areas Ski Tignes and the huge combined ski area is a true skier’s dream, with an enormous variety of pistes for all levels of skier to enjoy, and plenty of seriously ‘steep & deep’ offpiste too, including some spectacular adventures only to be tackled with a professional guide. Named after France’s most famous ski racer, Espace Killy combines the two ski domains of Tignes and Val d’Isère. The whole area is one of the most snow-sure in Europe.
SKI NEW YEAR
8 days, Sat 28th Dec 2013 from £999 Flights from Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham & Edinburgh • Spend New Year on the slopes • Ski one of the world best off piste resorts Join us on the slopes this New Year and enjoy excellent intermediate and advanced skiing and superb snowboarding. This is one of France’s prettiest Alpine resorts. A skiing holiday in Chamonix delivers fantastic all round skiing for confident skiers. The Nursery slopes are lovely too, with ski tuition that’s nothing short of excellent.
SKI DELUXE MERIBEL
8 days, Sun 2nd Feb 2014 from £739 Flights from Gatwick, Manchester & Birmingham • Small deluxe chalet for just 12 • Ski the massive 3 Valleys area
the Eternal City. None has a past so colourful and few have shaped western civilisation in such a way. Rome is as much a feast for lovers of art, as for lovers of good food.
MOSCOW DISCOVERY
5 days, Wed 14th May 2014 from £699 Flights from Gatwick & Manchester • Includes introduction visa letter • Visit the Kremlin & Red Square Following the huge success of our extended trips to Russia over past years we felt that it would be a great to visit Moscow on its own on this short break! We’ve included excursions that cover the major highlights of this great city and packs plenty into a short time; we’ve also included the cost of your introductory letter and Russian Tourist Visa to make things simpler for you to enjoy the break! So join us and let’s do Moscow ‘Spice Style’!
For Spice Skiers who want the traditional chalet experience with a smaller intimate group we offer Mark Warners’ beautiful Chalet Loden in Meribel. If you’re looking for a boutique cosy retreat offering you a truly pampered stay, the Chalet Loden fits the bill perfectly. With gorgeous views over the village of Méribel, and easy access to the slopes, the Chalet Loden is a traditionally styled chalet with antique furniture, elegantly styled rooms and a superb fine dining experience.
WALKING IN LANZAROTE
8 days, Sat 15th Mar 2014 from £799 Flights from Gatwick, Manchester & Birmingham • Enjoy a winter walking trip in the sun • 5 included guided walks We explore the length and breadth of the island and in doing so we can fully appreciate it’s amazing diversity. Although not widely known for its walking there is a well-developed network of paths that link villages, the coast and the volcanos thereby enabling us walkers to fully experience all the island has to offer.
ROME MINI BREAK
4 days, Thu 10th Apr 2014 from £399 Flights from Gatwick & Manchester • A super city for a short break • Visit the Vatican, Coliseum & more Get away from it all and treat yourself to a weekend break in Rome. The culture and beauty of Rome leave a deep impression on all who see the city for the first time, so rich in history and so alive. It is no surprise that Rome is known as
BEST OF THE BALTICS CRUISE
13 days, Tue 17th Jun 2014 from £979 Departs Southampton • Visiting Stockholm, Helsinki, St Petersburg, Copenhagen & Tallinn • Includes 2 excursions in St Petersburg After the success of our Norway Cruise this year we have followed the same cruise ship to offer this extended cruise around the Baltic States. On board you’ll find that things have been done properly; MSC Opera features plenty of real wood and marble and rich, traditional fabrics and trimmings abound. Her public areas boast a sweeping marble reception area and lovely open spaces with huge glass walls overlooking the sea. Indeed wherever you go, inside or on deck, you’ll find that a true sense of operatic grandeur and spaciousness prevails.
To book visit www.spiceuk.com or call Spice UK on 0161 873 8788 All Spice UK air holidays are protected by the Civil Aviation Authority under the ATOL scheme in the event of failure of the tour operator. Each tour operators ATOL number is stated at the end of every holiday write up on our website www.spiceuk.com plus full terms and conditions. Your money is protected via our Trust Account in compliance with EC Package Travel Regulations.
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spiceuk.com
Only 27,375 days in the average lifetime What did you really want to do today? Spice membership benefits! • Spice is the largest adventure, social and leisure group in the UK. • Established in 1981, with over 10,000 members across the UK, split into 8 regional groups. • 100s of events every month, professionally organised. All you have to do is book and turn up! • Unique events you normally wouldn’t have the chance to do, in the company of likeminded people. • Free personal accident insurance. • Meet new people, make new friends and widen your social circle. • Guest spaces so you can bring a friend along. • Book events with friendly staff during office hours, or online at your convenience. • Regular email updates for events local to you. • Regional and friendly Volunteer event Coordinators to host our events and make you feel welcome. • Member profiles of our Volunteer Coordinators so you know who to look out for on the events. • Events discounted wherever possible. • Transport Share List allows you to contact other members prior to attending events. • Free events, including cinema nights, gigs and member link ups. • Your local group for local people.
With always something to do and something to look forward to, life will never be boring again!
Spice Scotland Local Pages Welcome to the Autumn edition of the Live It Spice Scotland Newsletter. Inside you’ll find event listings for the coming 3 months and our Festive and New Year programme. We’ve enjoyed a fantastic summer and the great weather has followed us well into September. We’ve enjoyed Fringe weekends, a superb Newcastle Party Break, brilliant sailing trips, Walked in Carrbridge and a lovely visit to Inverurie for a Castles and Glens Break. Our congratulations to Steven Terry who won the first ever Spice Masters Golf trophy, Steven gets to keep the trophy for 1 year and we’ll be playing for it again next summer. We’ve had lots of fun and we look forward to continuing that theme for the remainder of 2013. There’s something for everyone so get booked now. Particular highlights include the Christmas lunches, dinners, quizzes and the brilliant January Ball. If it’s a great trip away then we have loads of them from Centre Parcs Parties, Ballachullish, Edinburgh Hogmanay and the legendary February Bargain Break. We are skiing in France with 1 male slot remaining and skiing again in Glenshee in March. We are also heading overseas for our Stockholm short break. Do you have a favourite walk? Would other Spice members enjoy the walk? Could you lead a walk for our members? We are currently seeking friendly members to lead walks in your area – can you help? We’ll thank you so will the members. If you are interested please call for a chat and we’ll see where it goes – it may result in free Spice weekends away – you never know. Enjoy the events, I’ll see you on few I’m sure.
Jamie
Welcome to New Members You’ve taken the first steps and joined Spice, and the next step is to come along to your first event. I know this can be a daunting prospect when you don’t know anyone else in the group, but there’s no need to be apprehensive – Spicer’s are a friendly bunch. Most of us come along on our own to events so we are all well used to meeting and welcoming new people. You have nothing to fear except a new and exciting circle of friends – and other people just like you. A great way of ‘getting into’ Spice is by booking st a soon as you can and getting the 1 event ‘under your belt’. Even better, try a weekend away and this way you get to know a smaller group of people extremely well. If you’ve not been to a Preview Evening we probably won’t know you, so next time I am on the same event please come up and say hello so I can put a face to the name! If you have any queries at all please give me call at the office and I’ll always do my utmost to help you.
Spice Free Preview Evenings No need to book, simply turn up! Each is in an area exclusive to Spice Scotland.
Glasgow & the West Mondays 7th October, 4th November & 6th January at 8.00pm prompt Conservatory, O’Neill’s, 71 Albion Street, Glasgow, G1 1NY O’Neill’s is on the corner of Bell Street and Albion Street, the Preview Night is in the Conservatory (rear and left of bar), which is exclusive to Spice for the evening. Please get your drinks from the bar before joining us.
Edinburgh & the East Tuesdays 5th November & 7th January at 8.00pm prompt The Outhouse, 12a Broughton Street Lane, Edinburgh, EH1 3LY The Outhouse is in Broughton Street Lane, off Broughton Street (through archway near top). We are in the upstairs lounge which is exclusive to Spice for the evening. Please get a drink from the bar and join us.
Aberdeen & the North
Mondays – 14th October, 11th November & Weds 8th January at 8.00pm prompt O’Neill’s, 9 – 10 Back Wynd, Aberdeen, AB10 1JN We will be in the upstairs function suite. Please get your drinks from the bar downstairs before joining us.
Events October & November 2013 Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
14 October Preview Night Aberdeen
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16
17 Badminton Glasgow
18 Meal - Fine Dining at West End Bistro
19 Who Do You Think You Are Trace Your Family Tree
20 Curling Taster Session – Aberdeen
Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour
Rock Climbing and Abseiling with Epic Ventures
Meal and Casino Night Glasgow 21 October
28 October
4 November Preview Evening - Glasgow O'Neill's
11 November Preview Night Aberdeen
18 November
25 November Workshop Connecting with Angels
22
29 Pool Night Glasgow
5 Glasgow Guy Fawkes
23 Skittles at The Sheep Heid Inn Edinburgh
30 New Members Meal – Tempus Edinburgh
24 Badminton Glasgow
31 Badminton Glasgow
19 Theatre - Shang A Lang
26 Workshop Connecting with Angels
26 Highland Adventure Safari - Roaring Stags
Meal and Music - Cafe Source & Cosmopolitan Big Band
Codona's Party Night - Golf, Bowling, Dodgems and Dinner
1 November Edinburgh Haunted Pub Crawl
2 Haunted Cabaret and Lunch
Walking Weekend Cheddar Gorge and Mendips
Cocktail Evening - Glasgow
27 Narrow Boat Day and Picnic
3 Anne's Walk – Fochabers Guided Tour Torness Nuclear Power Station The Trickery Luke Jermay
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7 Badminton Glasgow
8 Ballachulish Bargain Break WAIT LIST
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13 Meal - New Members at Cafe Rogano Glasgow
14 Badminton – Glasgow
15 Meal B4 Bar Night - The Living Room
16 A Play a Pie and a Pint - Janis Joplin - Full Tilt
17 Margaret's Walk - Swanston Circuit
Tenpin Bowling Glasgow
Rock Climbing Indoor – Aberdeen
23 A Night at The Dogs - Dinner and Racing
24 Eezee Trapezee with Spinal Chord
Murder Mystery at The Maitlandfield
Quad Biking
29 Bar Night Buffet at Arthenaeum – Aberdeen
30 A Play - Pie and a Pint - Guilty – Aberdeen
1 December Curling Taster Murrayfield Ice Rink
Meal - Greek @ Zorba's
Bar Night Buffet at Arta
Ice Climbing Taster at The Ice Wall
Fireworks Preview Night – Edinburgh 12
25 Meal - Simpsons Restaurant Edinburgh
Edinburgh Art Fair Charity Preview Evening
20 Meal - New Members - La Lombada Aberdeen
21 Badminton Glasgow
27 Skittles at The Sheep Heid Inn
28 Badminton Glasgow
22 3 City Team Digital Photo Challenge
The Balmoral Cocktail Tastings
Spice Scotland Ltd, 81 – 85 Portland Street, Edinburgh, EH6 4AY. 0131 5530026 info@spicescotland.com www.spicescotland.com Registered in Scotland: Company No. SC375093 Vat Reg. 990853577
Events December 2013 Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
2 December
3
4 Pool Night
5 Badminton Glasgow
6 Christmas Center Parcs
7 A Christmas Panto, Pie and a Pint - The Uglies
8 Karen's Walk Old Aberdeen and Beach Circuit
9 December
10 Christmas Quiz Night Aberdeen
11
12 Badminton Glasgow
13
14 Edinburgh's Winter Wonderland Mark's Glasgow Christmas On Ice
15 Spice Aberdeen Christmas Lunch at Cosmo Spice Edinburgh Christmas Lunch at Maison Bleue Spice Glasgow Christmas Lunch at Verona
16 December Christmas Quiz Night - Glasgow
17 Christmas Quiz Night Edinburgh
18
19 Badminton Glasgow
20
21 Glasgow Christmas Party Night 2013
22
23 December
24 Spice National Christmas Break
25
26
28
Merry Christmas from all at Spice
29 Walking Break New Year in Glaramara
Boxing Day
27 Meal and Music - Cafe Source and Cosmopolitan Big Band
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5
Walking Break Twixtmas Winter Break in the Lakes 30 December Edinburgh's Hogmany 2013
31 Aberdeen Hogmanay Ceilidh An Indian Hogmanay – Glasgow Meal Champagne Hogmanay Dinner at Merchants
1 January
2 Badminton Glasgow
3
Happy New Year
Edinburgh's Hogmanay Concert in the Gardens Hogmanay Ceilidh at Lauriston Hall
Spice Scotland Christmas and New Year Office Opening Hours Monday 23rd December 2013 – 10am – 1pm Tuesday 24th December 2013 - Christmas Eve – Office Closed – Emails will be monitored Wednesday 25th December 2013 – Christmas Day – Office Closed Thursday 26th December 2013 – Boxing Day – Office Closed Friday 27th December 2013 – 10am – 1pm Monday 30th December 2013 – 10am – 3pm Tuesday 31st December 2013 – Hogmanay – Office Closed st Wednesday 1 January 2014 – New Years Day – Office Closed nd Thursday 2 January 2014 – Office Closed – Emails will be monitored
Online Booking will be monitored and available throughout. Please ensure you book in advance for all your events over the Christmas period to ensure your slot.
Spice Scotland Ltd, 81 – 85 Portland Street, Edinburgh, EH6 4AY. 0131 5530026 info@spicescotland.com www.spicescotland.com Registered in Scotland: Company No. SC375093 Vat Reg. 990853577
Spice Scotland Weekends and Holidays Weekend/Holiday
Date
Walking Weekend – Oban Loch Lomond Murder Mystery Ballachullish Bargain Break Christmas Center Parcs Twixtmas Walking in the Lakes New Year Walking in the Lakes Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Spice Ski 2014 – Alpes d’Huez February Bargain Break 2014 Ski Glenshee Stockholm in Spring
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11 - 13 October 2013 11th - 13th October 2013 th th 10 November 2013 8 th th 9 December 2013 6 27th – 29th December 2013 29th - 1st January 2014 th st 30 Dec – 1 Jan 2014 th th 26 January 2014 19 21st - 23rd February 2014 7th 9th March 2014 th th 24 - 27 April 2014
Cost
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£169 £149 £99 £129 £185 £339 £259 £679 £109 £139 £499
Due Due Due £30 £50 £70 £50 £130 £30 £40 £150
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All Spice Scotland Weekends can be booked with a deposit (amounts vary depending on weekend cost) – full balance st will be due the month preceding weekend date, ie. Ballachullish Break Balance will be due 1 October 2013. For the most accurate and up to date availability on all Spice breaks please visit www.spicescotland.com
Walking Weekend: Oban, Highlands and Islands WHEN: Friday 11th October – Sunday 13th October 2013 WHERE: The Caledonian Hotel, Oban, PA34 5RT PRICE: £169.00 Members, £189 Guest – Full Wait List in operation INCLUDES: 2 nights accommodation, 2 evening meals, 2 breakfasts, 2 picnic lunches & 2 guided walks EXTRA: Transport to walks where taken. SLOTS: 30 (10 single, 8 twin/2 doubles) Overview: This excellent WalkWise Weekend is one of our personal favourites for lots and lots of reasons, this great hotel lies right on the seafront, there’s great food and absolutely superb walking from exquisite high mountains to forgotten islands. Oban is the unofficial capital of the western highlands and also the gateway to the islands which makes it an ideal location from which to explore the area; and we have some superb walks in store for you! WalkWise Walking Programme: We have done our research and will exploit the hotels enviable location to the full. Obviously our plans are somewhat weather dependent but as always we have back up just in case. However I really hope we are lucky with the weather as I believe that our planned walks are something very special indeed. On both days there will be a harder walk of 9-12 miles with 3000+ft of ascent, and a gentler walk of 6-9 miles with less ascent. All walks are weather dependent and own transport may be taken to the walk starts. Accommodation: Originally built around 1882 The Caledonian Hotel is situated in the centre of Oban on the waterside next to the harbour, amid spectacular Scottish surroundings. It has been restored to offer all the comfort and luxury you could wish for. This event is organized and supplied by WalkWise UK Ltd, whose terms and conditions apply, obtainable on request and for whom your local SPICE group acts as an agent. Those booking enter into a contract directly with WalkWise UK Ltd. For availability and bookings contact your local SPICE group directly.
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WHEN: Friday 11 October - Sunday 13 October 2013 WHERE: The Winnock Hotel, The Square, Drymen, Loch Lomond, G63 8BL PRICE: £149.00 Member, £169.00 Guest. Full – Space may be available upon request INCLUDES: 2 nights bed, breakfast, dinner, Murder Mystery Dinner on Saturday evening. SLOTS: Max. 24 (16 twin/doubles, 8 single) Join us for a Murder Mystery Weekend at the Winnock Hotel in the heart of Loch Lomond National Park, These Murder Mystery nights at the Winnock are widely regarded as some of the best Scotland has to offer. Will someone sitting next to you be another guest or an actor who will shortly slump to the floor? Keep your super sleuth hat on all evening and a keen eye out for clues and overheard conversations. After arrival on Friday you can explore the local area before dinner. After dinner we can relax and unwind for the evening. On Saturday we have the opportunity to visit Loch Lomond and enjoy as much as we can fit in – a think a loch boat trip may be required! (not included). Our Murder Mystery starts at dinner on Saturday evening and plots conclude after breakfast (depending on numbers). We don’t know the theme of the Murder Mystery yet but if numbers permit we will encourage fancy dress for the evening. The Murder Mystery evening is not an exclusive Spice event and as such we have no control over theme, running times etc as we will be part of a bigger group. A simple format but a wonderful weekend with a bit of sleuthing thrown in, don’t miss it. 10
Ballachulish Bargain Break WHEN: WHERE: PRICE: INCLUDES: SLOTS:
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Friday 8 November - Sunday 10 November 2013 Based at the Isles of Glencoe Hotel and Leisure Centre, Ballachulish, PH49 4HL £99.00 Member, £119.00 Guest. Single Rooms available at £35 supplement (Deposit £30) 2 nights bed, breakfast, dinner, plus excursions/walks on Sat & Sun Max. 62 (54 twin/doubles, 8 single) Full – Wait List in Operation
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One of our most acclaimed Bargain Breaks of recent years is back once again and at the same great price! This legendary weekend at a super hotel right on the loch with superb food, is one of the best deals we have ever been able to offer. Back in the programme, and at under £100, this is your chance to stay at the fantastic Isles of Glencoe Hotel right on the shores of beautiful Loch Leven a short drive from either Glasgow or Edinburgh. The Hotel: Isles of Glencoe Hotel and Leisure Centre - Almost afloat, nestling on the lochside on the side of a peninsula reaching into Loch Leven, this friendly hotel offers everything for which you dream whilst on a weekend away; spacious bedrooms with loch and mountain-views and a relaxed , convivial ambience. Luxuriate in the Leisure Centre - pool, sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, exercise room and solarium, marvel at the awesome surroundings - enjoy all aspects of The Isles experience. Listen as the water laps outside your bedroom. Step down to the spectacular lochside conservatory restaurant and savour a lively Bistro by day or casual fine-dining by night. Dive into the sparkling waters of the heated pool as they entice to the delights of the Leisure Centre: jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, exercise room and solarium. Outside you can explore easy lochside trails. There will be an additional Spice programme of optional activities during the day on both Saturday and Sunday, we will be offering one of our reasonably easy VC walks on each day led by one of our VC walk leaders there will also be a visit to a local place of interest on Saturday and Sunday. On previous visits many members have enjoyed the fantastic Ballachullish Guy Fawkes Fireworks Display and the plan (if on this weekend) is to ensure dinner is later so all can go along to the quarry and enjoy. The scenery will be stunning, the hotel fantastic and in the excellent company of Spice members a weekend to remember is certain. A joining pack will be sent out 2 weeks beforehand to help with lift share planning, directions etc.
Christmas Center Parcs WHEN: WHERE: COST: SLOTS:
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Friday 6 to Monday 9 December 2013 Center Parcs Whinfell Forest Holiday Village, Penrith, Cumbria, CA10 2DW Standard Lodge Member £134.00, Guests £154. Deposit £30 Double Bed Room for Single Occ £75 Supp. Subject to availability. 200 Max. (Shared between all Spice Groups).
Our Annual Spice Christmas weekend away with all your mates (some of whom you haven’t met yet!). Country lodges situated in deep forest surrounded by towering scots pines, beautiful surroundings, lakes, streams, forest paths leading to an unrivalled choice of sports and leisure facilities, health and beauty treatments, restaurants, cinema, cafes, bars…you name it - all just a short stroll or cycle from your lodge. The Lodges are situated in small clusters, and in order to keep Spice members together we have had to block book a number of different types and styles. All are fully furnished, warm and very comfortable – lodges hold 6 people, with differing locations and layouts - so there is an element of potluck where you will be allocated. Two rooms are twin with 2 beds, but one room in each lodge is a double bed for couples, or can also be offered for a single supplement of £70. The fully equipped lodge includes microwave, fridge / freezer, telephone, satellite TV, bathroom, patio and barbecue area. Bed linen is also provided. As usual with Spice Events - don’t hesitate to book as an individual as we will find you a roommate and once you have met up with your lodge - you’ll quickly be part of our big happy family. Please advise at the time of booking if you have rooming requests, we will do our best to accommodate these but due to the mix of rooms, and villa sizes, cannot be guaranteed. For more information, pics, etc - check out the Center Parcs Website at www.centerparcs.com and use the Spice message boards under the event at www.spiceuk.com to link up with others / make plans/ etc.
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Twixtmas Winter Break in the Lake District Glaramara, Borrowdale A WalkWise Break WHEN: Friday 27th – Sunday 29th December 2013 (2 nights) WHERE: Glaramara, Borrowdale, the Lake District, CA12 5XQ COST: £185.00 Member; £205 Guest. Single Room Supp £5; Deposit £50 INCLUDES: 2 nights accommodation, 2 evening meals, 2 picnic lunches, 2 breakfasts, 2 days guided walks EXTRA: Transport if taken to walk starts SLOTS: Max 39 (19 Single, 20 Twin) Overview: Christmas is past, and we're not quite at New Year…which leaves a wonderfully peaceful gap in our schedules! The Walkwise Lake District Twixtmas break this year falls across the weekend which is too good an opportunity to miss, so why not squeeze in a fantastic winter weekend escape amongst some of the finest mountains in Britain! And Glaramara just keeps getting better and better, in addition to some absolutely superb food, some great walking they have now added 10 stunning new ensuite bedrooms so now you have no excuse. Plus if you want an extended break, you can easily link it with one of the New Year events, either staying at Glaramara, or moving on to another WalkWise Venue in the Snowdonia or The North Downs! WalkWise Walking Programme: Quite simply this centre is one of the finest walking locations anywhere in the country, truly immersed in the deep Lakeland valleys and surrounded by majestic mountains and inviting Lakeland fells. By contrast, there are delightful river valleys with tranquil lakes, dancing waterfalls and peaceful woodland, providing enchanting scenery for all levels of walkers. To allow you to choose a walk that suits you best, WalkWise UK will provide a minimum of two walks on each day, three if we fill the centre! And they will all be led by professional and knowledgeable walking guides. On both days there will be a harder walk of 10-12 miles with 2500+ft of ascent, and a gentler walk of 6-9 miles with less ascent. However, the programme is flexible and can be altered to suit your needs. All walks are weather dependent and own transport may be taken to the walk starts. Accommodation: Is in Glaramara, a purpose built walking centre at the foot of the Borrowdale Valley in the heart of the beautiful Lake District National Park.
The Lake District & Glaramara, Borrowdale New Year – A Walkwise Break Sunday 29th December 2013–Wednesday 1st January 2014 Glaramara, Borrowdale, The central Lake District, CA12 5XQ £339.00 Member; £359 Guest. Single Room Supp £5; Deposit £70 3 breakfasts, 2 evening meals and a New Year Gala dinner, and New Years Party 3 picnic lunches, 3 days of guided walks EXTRAS: Any local transport costs to the walks, such as own cars or coaches. SLOTS: Max 39 (19 Single, 20 Twin) Overview: Following the traditional overindulgence of the festive period, why not take a wonderful opportunity to escape? WalkWise UK is running their traditional New Year Lake District Walking Events. The excellent centre has a superb location, surrounded by stunning valleys, amazing mountains and wonderful countryside this will be a new year to remember!!! Oh and there’s a black tie new years eve gala dinner and party too! Glaramara in Borrowdale is understandably one of our most popular locations and once again it will play host to three days of fantastic walking in the heart of the Lake District, culminating in what always proves to be an excellent New Year's Eve party! And by popular request, to make New Year's Eve Disco and party, go with an even bigger swing, and to celebrate the continuous improvements that the centre is making we have decided to make this New Year Party a Black Tie Affair. So don’t forget to pack your posh frock or Dickie Bow and remember to have a Happy Christmas but save some energy for a great New Year! WalkWise Walking Programme: To allow you to choose a walk that suits you best, WalkWise UK will provide a minimum of two walks on each day, three if we fill the centre! And they will all be led by professional and knowledgeable walking guides. On your walking days there will be a minimum of 2 walks, so hopefully we will be able to keep you all happy. All walks are weather dependent and own transport may be taken to the walk starts. Accommodation: Is in Glaramara, a purpose built walking centre at the foot of the Borrowdale Valley in the heart of the beautiful Lake District National Park. These walking events are organized and supplied by WalkWise UK Ltd, whose terms and conditions apply, obtainable on request and for whom your local SPICE group acts as an agent. Those booking enter into a contract directly with WalkWise UK Ltd. For availability and bookings contact your local SPICE group directly. WHEN: WHERE: COST: INCLUDES:
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Edinburgh’s Hogmanay 2013 ..the World’s Best New Year Celebrations WHEN: WHERE: COST:
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Monday 30 December 2013 – Wednesday 1st January 2014 Edinburgh – Travelodge, 18 Learmonth Terrace, Edinburgh, EH4 1PW – A great location, just a short walk to Princes Street and the Hogmanay Events. £259 Member, £279 Guest. (Deposit £50) Twin/Double rooms available (includes 2 nights bed & breakfast accomodation; Street Party & Concert in the Gardens Ticket; Torchlight Procession Ticket; services of a Spice Scotland Coordinator) Max. 40 (40 twin/doubles)
Edinburgh’s Hogmanay welcomes 2014 in style, with over 200,000 revellers enjoying spectacular events throughout the New Year. Now entering its 21st year, Edinburgh’s Hogmanay 2013 promises to be the biggest and best party ever and Spice Scotland invite you to join us! We are delighted to offer a superb 2 night break to experience the world famous Edinburgh’s Hogmanay. Join us at the ‘Home of Hogmanay’, with live music stages, giant screens, light and laser shows and the spectacular Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Midnight Fireworks when over 4.5 tonnes of fireworks light up the Edinburgh sky in one of the world’s largest New Year displays. Included in the cost of your weekend are 2 nights bed and breakfast at the Travelodge Learmonth Grove (a short walk to the city centre), a ticket for theTorchlight Procession and a Hogmanay Street Party ticket that gives exclusive entry to the Concert in the Gardens Enclosure. You arrive on Monday, get checked in and Jamie will see you at a welcome meeting. We will then head to Edinburgh’s Royal Mile for the stunning Torchlight procession. Imagine the scene – 15000 people all carrying flame torches to Carlton Hill. This really is a sight to behold. We’ll head out for some evening drinks afterwards. Tuesday is yours to explore the city with the option of bus tours, Edinburgh’s markets and Princes Street Fair there’s no shortage to things to do. Ice Skating on Europes largest outdoor manmade ice rink is always popular or perhaps an afternoon dance at a local ceilidh. During the evening you will have the option to book on our Hogmanay Champagne Dinner (this is a bookable extra, details will be notified nearer the time). After dinner we head to Princes Street Gardens and the world best Hogmanay celebrations. The big stage, live music and a great atmosphere – this is one of those nights everyone should experience.
Spice Scotland Ski Trip 2014 – Alpe d’Huez, France WHEN: WHERE: PRICE: INCLUDES: EXTRAS:
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Sunday 19 January- Sunday 26 January 2014 Chalet Hotel Les Cimes, Alpe d’Huez, France £679 Member Twin, £685 Guest Twin (Deposit £130) SLOTS: Max. 30 Last Spaces Flights, transfers, 3* chalet hotel accommodation (local rating), 7 breakfasts, 6 evening meals, wine with dinner, afternoon tea and coffee and cake, free Wi-Fi access available (public areas). Single Trip Insurance £37, Drinks, some meals, ski extras. Ski Alpe d'Huez! Skiing holidays in Alpe d'Huez offer a high sunny plateau surrounded by an amazing snow bowl, with mile after mile of varied pisted and off piste opportunities. From challenging black runs to wide open blues and greens, the 249km of skiing is spread over a huge area, providing endless opportunities for all levels of skier and boarder. Skiing holidays in Alpe d'Huez boast excellent snow records due to the high altitude, the Sarenne Glacier and over 800 snow cannons. The Pique Blanc summit at 3300m affords breathtaking views across the whole of the Southern Alps and provides a wonderful starting point for the Sarenne descent - one of the longest black runs in the world at fully 16km from top to bottom!
Chalet Hotel Les Cimes – This comfortable Chalet Hotel is located just 5 minutes’ walk (500m) to the resort centre and only 1 minute’s walk (50m) to the Grande Sure chairlift. The bedrooms all have en suite facilities and many have a south facing balcony. They are all well equipped and all have flat screen TV, safe and hairdryer. The hotel's attractive dining room also has lovely views of the Oisans valley and a convivial atmosphere, perfect for enjoying our choice of menus and of course the complimentary wines. There is also a bar and cosy lounge with fireplace and here is where the pre-dinner canapés are aperitifs are served and you can also relax here after dinner with coffee and maybe a nightcap. The centre of the resort is just 5 minutes' walk away including a selection of après ski bars and restaurants and also the resort swimming pool and ice rink (included with your lift pass). Free Wi-Fi is available in the public areas. 13
February Bargain Break 2014 Friday 21st February - Sunday 23rd February 2014 Based at the Fishers Hotel, Atholl Road, Pitlochry, PH16 5BN £109.00 Member, £124.00 Guest. Single Rooms £35 supplement (Dep £30) 2 nights bed, breakfast, dinner, entertainment including ceilidh and disco, walks with VC Walk Leaders, Mark’s Meander & Treasure Hunt, and Friday Welcome Spice Rotating Dinner SLOTS: Max. 100 (86 twin/doubles, 14 single) th Now into its 10 year, join us for the biggest and best weekend in the Spice calendar – our February Bargain Break. This year we head to Pitlochry and The Fishers Hotel. The Fishers Hotel 3 Star hotel situated in the lovely town of Pitlochry and offers exceptional accommodation and facilities for the perfect Spice weekend. At just over 1 ½ hrs from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Aberdeen this weekend is easily accessible to all. The hotel is also in a great location for those wanting to travel by train with a station nearby. Fishers Hotel, sits within two acres of spectacular, award-winning gardens and a putting green, it is one of the town's finest, a reminder of the Grand Days blending Victorian elegance with modern day luxury and comfort. All public areas have been refurbished to a high standard and provide wonderful lounges with open fires, an exclusive cocktail lounge, a Courtyard restaurant and a lively public bar and bistro. All bedrooms are en-suite with colour tv, tea and coffee making facilities, hairdryer, wireless internet and direct dial telephone.There is a lift to the bedrooms in the main building. Your weekend includes a 3 course sit down dinner on Friday and Saturday evening in our own exclusive function rooms. Each morning begins with a full Scottish breakfasts. The Area: Pitlochry is a delightful Victorian town nestling on the River Tummel, amidst mountains, lochs and forests and some of the most beautiful scenery in Europe. A popular holiday resort for over 150 years since first visited by Queen Victoria, famous for its Festival Theatre, salmon ladder and woollen shops and activites including, hill-walking, fishing, boating and golf, it is well placed for exploring the scenic beauty of the Perthshire Highlands. Pitlochry has grown into an attractive, busy town, solid with a strong Victorian air and a lot of stone buildings. Activities: This excellent weekend is jam packed with activities to suit everyone. On Friday evening we will attempt a Spice Rotating Dinner – 100 members moving between courses! The perfect chance to meet loads and loads of your fellow Spice weekenders in one action packed evening. Beware – if you come with a friend we cannot guarantee you will sit together during dinner. Each evening offers entertainment including a ceilidh and disco. Our VC walk leaders will be leading a choice of walks suitable for all on Saturday and Sunday (there will be 2 options – a gentle short walk of around 5 miles and a moderate walk of about 6 – 8 miles). or you If you don’t fancy either walk there is the option of joining Mark Biagioni for a very special Pitlochry Meander and an afternoon Treasure Hunt on Saturday and Mini Meander on Sunday – great fun and a great way to mix and mingle. WHEN: WHERE: COST: INCLUDES:
Spice Ski Scotland Weekend Friday 7th March - Sunday 9th March 2014 Based at Gulabin House, Spittal of Glenshee, PH10 7QE £139 Member, £159 Guest. (Dep £40) 2 nights bed, breakfast, dinner, transport to and from Glenshee Ski Centre on Sat and Sun 2 Day Hire £32 (Skis/Boots/Poles); 2 hrs tuition £25pp am or pm session; Beginners Area Lift Pass £17pp per day; Full Area Lift Pass £29pp per day. st SLOTS: Max. 12 (4 x twin/double and 1 x 4 bed ensuite – rooms will be allocated on a 1 come basis) Glenshee Ski Centre offers the UK's most extensive skiing and snowboarding facilities - we hope you will enjoy the mountains of adventure. Only a short drive from our base Glenshee offers the opportunity to ski in Scotland for skiers of all abilities. Size of Area: 2,000acres (790 hectares); Pisted Runs: 40km; Opening Hours: 0830-1700 (7 days a week); Vertical Descent: 1,500ft (457m); Summit Elevation: 3,504ft (1068m); Longest Run: Glas Maol - 2km (1.25m); 22 Lifts - 3 Chairlifts, 16 Pomas and 3 T-Bars; 36 Runs - 8 Green (22%) 13 Blue (36%), 13 Red (36%) and 2 Black (6%) Gulabin House is a beautifully designed modern building with fantastic features. The lounge is open plan with a 60 inch flat screen TV, a feature swedish log burning stove (16kw) and a spiral staircase to the upper level. The kitchen is equipped with all the modern appliances including a diswahser and wine cooler. There is a bathroom downstairs, and a further family bathroom upstairs and 2 ensuite bedrooms. In total there are 5 bedrooms sleeping 12 in total (4 upstairs/1 downstairs). Underfloor heating provides the heating on the lower level with standard radiators on the upper level. Gulabin House offers self catering accommodation but breakfast and dinner is included in the cost of your weekend (dinner Friday and Sat, breakfast Sat and Sun - we will need to coordinate between those booked who brings tea, coffee, snacks, treats and your favourite tipple etc – details will be provided nearer the time).
WHEN: WHERE: COST: INCLUDES: EXTRAS:
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Stockholm in Spring WHEN: WHERE: COST: INCLUDES:
SLOTS:
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Thursday 24th - Sunday 27 April 2014 Based at the Hotel Rex, Stockholm £499 Member, £519 Guest. Single Rooms £130 supplement (Dep £150) Includes: Return Flights from Edinburgh to Stockholm, transfers to/from hotel, 3 nights accommodation in a central hotel, Breakfast each morning of our stay; Stockholm Tour & Vasa Museum entrance; Services of a Spice Coordinator throughout. Max. 16 (12 twin/doubles, 4 single) – 16 Already Booked! Stockholm is the largest city in Scandinavia. It’s the place towards which people from all over Scandinavia gravitate. Beauty, food, design, music, shopping and history – Stockholm has it all.
Stockholm, one of the most beautiful capitals in the world, is built on 14 islands connected by 57 bridges. With its 750 year history and rich cultural life, Stockholm offers a wide selection of world-class museums and attractions. Most of the city's attractions can be reached on foot, and there’s a good chance of experiencing a lot of things in a short time. You can visit Stockholm City Hall and climb the City Hall tower for a fantastic view of Stockholm. Don't miss Gamla Stan, Stockholm's oldest attraction and one of the best preserved medieval city centers in the world. Walk through small winding streets lined with stores full of handicrafts, antiques, art galleries and cafés. The Royal Palace and Stockholm Cathedral are also located in Gamla Stan. The green island of Djurgården is home to some of the city's most popular attractions. Visit the world-famous warship the Vasa, the world’s oldest open-air museum Skansen, or Astrid Lindgren’s Junibacken. And don't miss the chance to see Stockholm from the water. Naturally a city built on fourteen islands offers marvellous views over the water. There are many different sightseeing tours to choose from. And if fourteen islands aren’t enough, Stockholm offers a wonderful archipelago with 30,000 islands, islet rocks and skerries. Provisional flight info Thur 24 Apr 2014 12.50pm Edinburgh – 4pm Stockholm, Arlanda Sun 27 Apr 2014 7pm Stockholm, Arlanda - 8.15pm Edinburgh Our Tour (Saturday Morning): “Introducing Stockholm and the Vasa Museum”: Stockholm is widely acknowledged as one of the world’s most beautiful cities and is often called the Venice of Scandinavia. Dramatically situated at a point where the cobalt blue Lake Mälaren meets and clashes with the darker hue of the Baltic Sea, the city has been splendidly endowed by nature. At the hotel we board our coach and drive to Fjällgatan from where you will have a magnificent view of 8 out of the 14 islands, which Stockholm is built upon. The drive continues as we pass the medieval Old Town, the Royal Palace, the Parliament building, the National Museum, the Royal Dramatic Theatre and along the quayside boulevard Strandvägen to Djurgården and the Vasa Museum. The great new warship Vasa keeled over and sank on her very first voyage on August 10, 1628 and was found almost intact, after 3 centuries on the bottom of Stockholm Ström. The Vasa is now the oldest fully preserved ship in the world. Adorned with more than 700 carved sculptures; she is also a unique treasury of arts. You will have free time to explore the museum after your guided tour. Our tour lasts 3 hours and includes bus, English speaking guide and entrance fee to the Vasa Museum. Eating & Drinking: A buffet breakfast is included to start the day, but other meals are not. There is no shortage of places to eat out in the evening. It is usual for us to split into smaller groups for eating out and then to meet up in the many bars. Exploring: This is very much a “go as you please” trip, and I am sure that people will have a variety of “must sees” on their agenda. The trip coordinator will always have a “group option” for those who wish to explore together. You can opt in or out of the main group as you wish, but this approach means that there is always a sociable option available. Our Hotel: Hotel Rex is housed in a charming 19th-century building, just 2 minutes’ walk from Rådmansgatan Metro Station. All rooms feature flat-screen TVs, heated bathroom floors and free wired internet. The Hotel is only 2 metro stops from Stockholm Central Station and Drottninggatan shopping street is a 5minute walk away. A comprehensive buffet breakfast includes many healthy options. Web: http://rexhotel.se/en/Rex_hotel Balance: Is due 12 weeks before departure. Deposit is non refundable upon cancellation. The tour operator for this flight inclusive holiday is Spice UK (Atol 9046). This holiday is protected by the Civil Aviation Authority under the ATOL scheme in the event of failure of the tour operator. Spice UK holiday terms and conditions apply, as supplied with the full holiday information pack. Your money is protected via our trust account in compliance with EC travel regulations. Spice further protect your payments through our own Trust Accounts.
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Spice Scotland January Ball 2014 Date: Place: Time: Cost: Includes:
Saturday 11th January 2014 The Hilton Edinburgh Grosvenor, 21 Grosvenor St, Edinburgh, EH12 5EF 7pm till 1am £40 per Ticket (£10 dep) (Price will increase to £47 per ticket on 1st Nov 13) Welcome Drink, 3 Course Dinner with Coffee/Tea and Glass of Wine/Bottle Beer, Entertainment courtesy of the amazing Hip Operation
The highlight of the Spice programme and the must do event to kick start your year in style. Don’t be fooled by the amazing ticket price – we are heading to one of Edinburgh’s best function venues – The Roseberry Suite of the Hilton Edinburgh Grosvenor for an evening of fabulous food and excellent entertainment. Dinner Menu Slow roasted plum tomato soup with basil oil **** Roulade of chicken with wild mushroom and tarragon mousse, chive mash and chardonnay cream or Sweet potato and mixed bean cassoulet topped with a cous cous crust **** Lemon torte with a white chocolate sauce **** Freshly brewed coffee or tea For your entertainment we welcome back Edinburgh’s top cover band - Hip Operation – brilliant, awesome – some of the words used to describe this 7 piece band last time out! Enjoy an enormous spectrum of classic pop, rock and soul from the past fifty years with commitment and style sure to keep you partying all night. Dress to impress: Ladies – Cocktail/Evening Dresses; Gents – Kilts/Lounge Suits/Tuxes. Bring along a friend – All member, guest and ex member tickets are priced the same and everyone is welcome. All tickets must be pre booked in advance for this event. This year we will be arranging a table plan so we can look after you all even better – this is great if you want come alone and if you want to sit next to friends please let us know when booking and we can arrange that too. Secure your ticket with a £10 deposit (balance due 1st November 2013) Want to stay over? – We have secured a great deal on overnight accommodation – Twin/Double room just £47.50 per person (requires 2 booking per room) or Double for sole occupancy just £85 – breakfast included – Why not make a real night of it and perfect for those members in Glasgow, Aberdeen and beyond. Rooms are subject to availability and must be booked by mid December to get the special rate. Accommodation needs to be booked using the following link You will also find even more affordable accommodation in the local surroundings if required.
Make a date to join us at The Hilton Grosvenor in January – you’ll have a great night and something to really look forward to after Christmas & New Year! 16
SPICE SCOTLAND EVENT LISTINGS AUTUMN & CHRISTMAS 2013 Full Event Write Ups and Sample Menus are available at www.spicescotland.com
Preview Night - Aberdeen Date: Monday 14th October 2013 Place: O'Neill's, 9 - 10 Back Wynd, Aberdeen (AB10 1JN) Time: 8pm See Page 7 for full details
Badminton - Glasgow th
Date: Every Thursday – except Thursday 26 December. Place: Scotstoun Leisure Centre, 72 Danes Drive, Glasgow (G14 9HU) Time: 7pm to 9pm Cost: £5 Member, £6 Guest Badminton suitable for all standards. Come along, get some light exercise. You can pay the coordinator on the night for this event.
Meal - Fine Dining at West End Bistro - Aberdeen Date: Friday 18th October 2013 Place: West End Bistro, 122 Huntly Street, Aberdeen (AB10 1SU) Time: 7:30pm Cost: £29 Member, £32 Guest Part of the four star Copthorne Hotel, the West End Bistro and Bar can be found on Huntly Street in central Aberdeen. A warm and inviting space for the Bistro offers freshly prepared, often locally sourced food; a great wine list and a cocktail menu that rewards close examination. Put simply, the West End Bistro and Bar is a welcoming spot for a lovely meal. Tonight we dine on 3 course set menu with glass of wine, tea or coffee and service included. Everything you need for a perfect night out. Includes: 3 Course Dinner, Glass of Wine, Tea/Coffee, Service. Extras: Cheese Supplement and Extra Drinks
Who Do You Think You Are - Trace Your Family Tree Date: Saturday 19th October 2013 Place: Scottish Genealogy Society, 15 Victoria Terrace, Edinburgh (EH1 2JL) Time: 11am Cost: £8 Member, £9 Guest Do you know your heritage? The Scottish Genealogy Society offers a comprehensive Family History Research Centre in central Edinburgh with a large collection of information in microform to help you trace your ancestors. In this taster session, we will enjoy a brief tour and talk and will then get down to the practicalities of finding out our own family histories, with expert guidance on hand from one of the Society’s volunteers. Obviously, this will be most useful to those whose family tree stays in Scotland for a few generations but the Society does have the English Census dating back to 1881 and, even if your roots spread afar, it will still be a fascinating insight into the field of genealogy. This is a must for those wanting to get started in tracing their roots and the evening could lead to some interesting discoveries! Please BOOK EARLY. NOTE: The price includes a day membership and a charitable donation to the Society.
Stockholm in Spring – Taking off from Edinburgh 24tt April 2014
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SPICE SCOTLAND EVENT LISTINGS AUTUMN & CHRISTMAS 2013
Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour Date: Saturday 19th October 2013 Place: Edinburgh (EH1 2AS) Meet: Outside The Beehive Inn, The Grassmarket Time: 7:10pm Cost: £14 Member, £15 Guest Always a very popular event as we return to this unique tour around some of the best hostelries in the city. This will be a public tour for which we will purchase tickets. The Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour combines literary history with drinking…what better way to spend 2 hours on a Friday night! We meet at the historic Beehive Inn in the Grassmarket (please arrive at 7.10 p.m. prompt) and then follow a route past the Martyr’s Cross, the site of the old gallows, through the winding streets, wynds and courtyards of the Old Town, over the Mound and down to Rose Street in the New Town. Led by a professional group of actors this is an entertaining, witty and dramatic th romp through the life and work of Scotland’s great poets and novelists from the early 18 century to the present day (Burns, Scott, Stevenson, Spark, Welsh and many more). Performed in and out of Edinburgh’s famous taverns and ‘howffs’, the tour takes the form of an impassioned debate between two fictional characters, Clart (as in muck!) and McBrain. A great night out – PLEASE BOOK EARLY!
Meal and Casino Night Glasgow Date: Saturday 19th October 2013 Place: Grosvenor Casino, 18 Glassford St. Glasgow (G1 1UL) Time: 7:30pm Cost: £24 Member, £26 Guest Includes: Welcome Drink, 2 Course Dinner, 1 Hours Tuition, £10 Tokens Join us in Glasgow for what is always an excellent fun evening with super food and a few laughs for an event which has proved to be hugely popular in the Spice programme. We begin at 7.30 p.m. with a welcome drink before we sit down to a superb 2-course dinner in the Casino’s restaurant. After dinner we will spend 1 hour with our own croupier to show us the ropes. You will learn the basics of various casino games. Everyone will then receive £10 in chips to play the tables for real. PLEASE READ MEMBERSHIP TERMS (BELOW) CAREFULLY: Membership can now be obtained (free of charge) on the night upon production of a current passport or driving licence – please remember to bring either of these forms of ID on the night to claim your membership if you are a non-member. Please DO NOT come without them! Failure to do so will result in exclusion from the event. (New members will receive a free drink on arrival) Dress Code: Smart Casual. No sportswear. Book now for this high (or low) stake fun night out!
Curling Taster Session - Aberdeen Date: Sunday 20th October 2013 Place: Curl Aberdeen, Eday Walk, Aberdeen (AB15 6LN) Time: 10:45am to 12pm Curling is one of Scotland's growing sports and a most enjoyable way to get your exercise and meet new people at the same time. Curling is a straightforward and uncomplicated sport suitable for all. Curl Aberdeen offers a world class venue for our introduction and an excellent opportunity to learn the basics. The session will taken by a qualified coach and provide an insight into the sport. The event is free but spaces are limited and must be booked in advance. Please do not turn up to this event unless you have booked a slot. Please wear clean flat shoes and warm clothing.
Saturday 11th January 2014 - Spice Scotland Ball The Edinburgh Hilton Grosvenor. The best night of the year – make a weekend of it and stay over – great hotel rates Full details page 16
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SPICE SCOTLAND EVENT LISTINGS AUTUMN & CHRISTMAS 2013
Rock Climbing and Abseiling with Epic Ventures Date: Sunday 20th October 2013 Place: Blackford Quarry Time: 1:15pm to 5pm Cost: £28 Member, £31 Guest Host: Martin McKay We head to Blackford Quarry and under the expert guidance of Martin McKay of Epic Ventures. Today you will experience the thrill of climbing and abseiling on real rock. This event is suitable for all but does offer climbs about 10-20 metres high. All equipment is provided, please wear sturdy footwear for this fantastic experience. Places are strictly limited so please book early to secure your slot. Directions: From Edinburgh city centre (Princes Street). Head up North Bridge from the east end of Princes Street. Continue down this road (becoming Minto St.) until you come to a roundabout. (You'll see Cameron toll shopping centre behind it). From here, go straight across and head for Liberton Brae. Blackford Glen Road will be on your right-hand side. Turn up there and park at the end. www.epic-ventures.com
Skittles at The Sheep Heid Inn Date: Wednesday 23rd October 2013 Place: The Sheep Heid Inn, 43 The Causeway, Duddingston, Edinburgh (EH15 3QA) Time: 8pm Cost: £7 Member, £8 Guest A great night….. the chance to mix and mingle over a game of skittles in Scotland’s oldest surviving public house – The Sheep Heid Inn. The evening includes 2 games that usually take around 2 hours. Teams will be allocated on the night. Early dinner? If you would like to meet at 7pm for dinner (payable on the night) please let us know when booking and we’ll reserve a table. Spaces are limited so please book early.
Meal - Simpsons Restaurant Date: Friday 25th October 2013 Place: Simpsons, 79 Lauriston Place, Edinburgh (EH3 9HZ) Time: 7:30pm Cost: £20 Member, £22 Guest Part of the Edinburgh City Hotel on Lauriston Place, Simpsons Restaurant is a cosy and friendly restaurant in between the capital’s Old Town and Meadows. The kitchen’s aim is to provide creative, yet simple and wholesome dishes. As welcoming to non-residents as it is to guests, Simpsons Restaurant offers a range of Scottish and international dishes close to Edinburgh’s popular Tollcross. At Simpsons Restaurant on Lauriston Place, all dishes are prepared to order and use the best local produce. Tonight we dine on 2 courses from the Market Menu (Starter/Main or Main/Dessert) with glass of wine and service included. Book Now. rd Includes: 2 Course Dinner, Glass of Wine, Service. Extras: 3 Course, Drinks
Meal and Music - Cafe Source & Cosmopolitan Big Band Date: Friday 25th October 2013 Place: Cafe Source, 1 St Andrews in the Square, Glasgow (G1 5PP) Time: 7:30pm Cost: £30 Member, £33 Guest We’ve featured the Cosmopolitan Big Band a few times over the years with fantastic feedback. This time to ensure we get the best seats we will enjoy dinner at Café Source before relaxing to enjoy our evening. We will enjoy a sumptious 3 courses. After dinner the Cosmopolitan Big Band entertain - The Band features a selection of high quality guest vocalists from across the city to round off a highly entertaining evening. We only have 10 slots for this evening so early booking is strongly encouraged. Includes: 3 Course Dinner, Entertainment. Extras: Service, Extra Drinks
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SPICE SCOTLAND EVENT LISTINGS AUTUMN & CHRISTMAS 2013
Highland Adventure Safari - Roaring Stags Date: Saturday 26th October 2013 Place: Drumdewan Farmhouse, Aberfeldy (PH15 2JQ) Meet: Meeting Details will be sent Time: 1:10pm Cost: £39 Member, £42 Guest This Highland Adventure Safari is a real chance to see the Scottish hills at their best, without getting cold, wet or tired. Spot the wildlife as we ascend to over 3,000ft. Some members opt for a long hard walk – others choose to do it the easy way! You will go on an exciting Landrover Safari into a secret Scotland – all off road and all on wild and unspoilt private land between Aberfeldy and Rannoch. At this time of the year the stags are at their roaring best – a real bonus. The Safari will be 2½ hours of sheer adventure taking you into a wild wonderland with a stop for tea/coffee and shortbread – not to forget a wee dram! On the hill, a bothy has been built to enable the group to experience the hill environment in greater comfort when the weather is less than perfect. The wilderness of Highland Perthshire at its finest awaits… BOOK NOW! Note: There is a café at the start and end point of your trip which will depart at 1.30pm prompt! Directions: A9 Perth to Ballinluig, A827 to Aberfeldy. From Aberfeldy follow the B846 for 2½ miles past castle Menzies until you see the Highland Safaris sign at Dull Village. Follow signs up to the Highland Safaris reception.
Codona's Party Night - Golf, Bowling & Dinner Date: Saturday 26th October 2013 Place: Cordona's, Aberdeen Beach (AB24 5ED) Time: 7pm Cost: £25 Member, £27 Guest Includes: 2 Course Meal, 18 Hole Adventure Golf, 1 Game Tenpin Bowling, Dodgem's Ride. Cordona’s at Aberdeen Beach is Scotland’s greatest entertainment complex – or so they say – let’s go and find out as we enjoy an action packed evening of fun! There’s so much going on and in no particular order we’ll play 18 holes of mini golf, 1 game of ten pin bowling, 1 ride on the dodgems and enjoy a 2 course meal, there’ll also be best and worst bowling certificates. We require a minimum of 10 for this event to run - a fun filled evening awaits you so please book early.
Narrow Boat Day and Picnic Date: Sunday 27th October 2013 Place: Leomington, Canal Basin, Manse Road, Linlithgow (EH49 6AJ) Time: 11am Cost: £20 Member, £22 Guest We have chartered the Leamington Narrow Boat, a traditional narrow boat 30ft long with a diesel engine. There is an enclosed cabin and an open foredeck (with curtains), a toilet and sink. The Leamington can carry 12 passengers each of whom takes turn of being the skipper for the day. We will have full and private access to the narrow boat from 11am to 4pm as we take it in turns to drive this remarkable boat along the Linlithgow Canal. The Leamington is a simple vessel but the best (and possibly) and only way of experiencing the Linlithgow Canal at it’s very best – on the water. Also included in this unforgettable day out will be an excellent picnic consisting of Sparkling Wine & Soft Drinks, Continental Cheeses & Oatcakes, Fresh Fruit along with other delights to enjoy. (eating utensils, plates, wine glasses etc will also be provided). This event is easily accessible by train and a great opportunity to leave the car at home.
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SPICE SCOTLAND EVENT LISTINGS AUTUMN & CHRISTMAS 2013
Pool Night - Glasgow Date: Tuesday 29th October 2013 Place: Reardon Snooker Centre, 24 Hope St. Glasgow Time: 7pm Cost: £6 Member, £7.50 Guest Join us for a relaxed evening enjoying a leisurely game of Pool. The price includes a day membership pass and all table costs for two hours - it doesn’t matter if you’ve ever played before…this is purely for fun and laughs! Our format will ensure that you get lots of games! Go along and give it your best shot! BOOK EARLY!
Meal - New Members - Tempus - Edinburgh Date: Wednesday 30th October 2013 Place: EH2 Tempus, 25 George St. Edinburgh (EH2 2PB) Time: 7pm Cost: £19.50 Member, £21 Guest The Tempus @ The George Hotel is set in sumptuous surroundings, with high ceilings and traditional decor whilst s still being a relaxed venue for a meal. The cuisine is modern Scottish and has been sourced from the very best local suppliers. New members evenings are a great way to get started with Spice and we encourage existing members to come along and share their Spice experiences. The evening includes a 2 course dinner rd with service paid too (£3.30 supplement payable on the night for 3 course). rd Includes: 2 Course Dinner, Service. Extras: 3 Course, Drinks
Edinburgh Haunted Pub Crawl Date: Friday 1st November 2013 Place: Edinburgh City Centre Meet: Meeting Details will be advised Time: 7:30pm A spooky pub crawl with a guarantee in place – we’ll definitely see some spirits tonight. Join us for an evening visiting some of Edinburgh’s haunted hostelries. All the venues tonight will have a spooky story to tell and this is our chance to explore a few. This bar night will be a good chance to mix and mingle over a few drinks. Meeting details will be sent beforehand but please book in advance if you plan on coming. We won’t know where we will be later in the evening and you’ll need to be advised of the start point.
Cocktail Evening - Glasgow Date: Saturday 2nd November 2013 Place: Blythswood Square Bar, 11 Blythswood Sq. Glasgow(G2 4AD) Time: 7:30pm Cost: £8 Member, £9 Guest A little bit of luxury for a Saturday evening as we head to the upmarket Blythswood Square Hotel for an evening of cocktails. The cocktail menu at the Blythswood Hotel is simply stunning offering one of Glasgow’s biggest (and reasonably priced) cocktail chioces. The first cocktail of the evening is included in the cost and after that you can explore the menu at your leisure. Book Now
Haunted Cabaret and Lunch Date: Saturday 2nd November 2013 Place: Brittania Panoptican and Qua Italian (G1 1LX) Meet: Brittania Panoptican Time: 12pm Cost: £12 Member, £14 Guest Includes: 2 Course Lunch, Service, Haunted Show, Donation to Panoptican A Spooky afternoon for you as we head to the Britannia Panoptican for a Haunted Cabaret Show with Billy Bones – the host with the ghost. Good old fashioned entertainment. After our show we head to Qua Italian for a late lunch and the opportunity to calm down after our ordeal!! Includes: Haunted Cabaret, 2 Course Dinner, Service, Panoptican Donation. Extras: Drinks
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SPICE SCOTLAND EVENT LISTINGS AUTUMN & CHRISTMAS 2013
Anne's Walk - Fochabers Date: Sunday 3rd November 2013 Place: Fochabers Meet: Details will be sent beforehand Time: 10:30am Cost: £5 Member, £6 Guest Join Vc walk leader Anne Sim for a walk from Fochabers 8 mile circular, undulating walk starts at Fochabers Cricket Club Car Park at 10.30am. Initially we will walk on the Speyside Way meandering through Fochabers on to the quiet Ordiquish Road to Aulderg where we take a rough track into the Slorach Woods. Capercaillie and Pine Marten are resident in these woods but unfortunately seldom seen by walkers passing through. Several uphills take us to Jean Carr's Stone for a well earned early lunch break. (Please take a packed lunch) Here the sad tale of Jean Carr will unfold. After lunch we will head down through the woods towards Fochabers taking in some spectacular views over the Moray Firth. To complete our day after the walk we can venture over to Baxters of Speyside to sample a very large pancake or have afternoon cream tea. Small gift and craft shops also on site. Directions - A96 towards Fochabers; first left at main roundabout; straight on at mini roundabout through village; go through two sets of traffic lights; 100 metres on left turn into Car Park for start of walk. Paths - road, woodland and forest tracks (all good underfoot) Duration - 4 hours approximately and suitability for all abilities. Map - OS Explorer 424
Guided Tour - Torness Nuclear Power Station Date: Sunday 3rd November 2013 Place: Torness Power Station, East Lothian (EH42 1 QS) Meet: Meeting details will be provided Time: 11am Cost: £6 Member, £7 Guest st This is a real coup for Spice and one of the 1 opportunities for the general public to get inside and explore a nuclear facility in over a decade – this is not an April Fool event – this is the real deal. Torness Nuclear Power Station is owned and run by EDF energy and was the last of the United Kingdom's second generation nuclear power plants to be commissioned. This famous land mark on the East Lothian coastline are opening their doors and giving us a full guided tour of amny of the facilities features. During our visit we will head to the brand new visitor centre, see the on site nuclear reactors, the control room, turbines and as much as we can fit in our allocated time. Please be aware the event will invlove walking around 2 km and 100 steps as a guide. The whole visit will last in the region of 1 ½ to 2 hours. Security are Torness is extremely tight and as such all bookings MUST be made by the following dates. If you do not book by the dates outlined below you will not be able to attend. Security checks will be carried out beforehand and photo ID will also be required on the day. th British Passport Holders must book by Friday 18 October 2013 (before midday) th Non British Passport Holders must book by Wednesday 16 October 2013 (before midday) Spaces are strictly limited so please book now to secure your slot. Meeting details will be sent to those booked st beforehand. EDF Energy make to charge for this event so Spice will be making a donation to Children 1 on your behalf.
The Trickery - Luke Jermay Date: Sunday 3rd November 2013 Place: Club Snafu, 1 Union Street, Aberdeen (AB11 5BU) Time: 7pm Cost: £12 Member, £13 Guest Luke Jermay is the most incredible man you’ve probably never heard of. He can read your mind. No really; he can read your mind. He doesn’t use mind games or psychological tricks; he is not a trickster, there are no smoke and mirrors. He can simply read your mind. His awe inspiring intuitive abilities have gained him high profile fans such as Derren Brown, Dynamo and Uri Geller who all agree Jermay is astonishing. ‘Luke Jermay’s – Sixth Sense’ has gained critical acclaim with 5 Star reviews from Edinburgh to London’s West End. You’ll be amazed at Jermay’s incredible powers; he knows your past, present and future, sometimes better than you do. From your favourite schoolteacher, childhood pet even the colour of your underwear, Jermay impossibly knows all, sees all and tells (almost) all in an expert display of telepathy developed to amazing razor sharp accuracy.
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SPICE SCOTLAND EVENT LISTINGS AUTUMN & CHRISTMAS 2013
Preview Evening - Glasgow - O'Neill's Date: Monday 4th November 2013 Place: The Conservatory, O' Neill's, 71 Albion St, Glasgow (G1 1NY) Time: 8pm Please see Preview evenings Page 7 for details
Glasgow Guy Fawkes Fireworks Date: Tuesday 5th November 2013 Place: Glasgow Green, Glasgow Time: 6:45pm It’s Bonfire Night and what better way to enjoy the evening than the annual Glasgow Fireworks at Glasgow Green. Mark Biagioni will be on hand to meet and greet members before the event starts. This is a free event but we ask you book in advance so we know you are going. For those who would like to meet earlier for a bite to eat (around 5.30pm) please let us know and we’ll book a table at a nearby restaurant (Pizza Hut on Jamaica Street – payable on the evening). Meeting details will be sent beforehand.
Preview Night - Edinburgh Date: Tuesday 5th November 2013 Place: The Outhouse, 12a Broughton St. Lane, Edinburgh (EH1 3LY) Time: 8pm See Preview Evenings Page 7 for full details
Ballachulish Bargain Break Date: Fri 8th Nov 2013 - Sun 10th Nov 2013 Place: Isles of Glencoe Hotel and Leisure Centre (PH49 4HL) Cost: £99 Member, £134 Member Single, £119 Guest, Slots:WAIT LIST ONLY Includes: 2 Nights Dinner, Bed and Breakfast, VC Walks See page 11 for full details
Preview Night - Aberdeen Date: Monday 11th November 2013 Place: O'Neill's, 9 - 10 Back Wynd, Aberdeen (AB10 1JN) Time: 8pm See Preview Evenings Page 7 for full details
Meal - New Members at Cafe Rogano Date: Wednesday 13th November 2013 Place: Cafe Rogano, 11 Exchange Place, Glasgow (G1 3AN) Time: 7:30pm Cost: £18 Member, £20 Guest Our new member meals are a great way to get started with Spice but are suitable for all. We welcome bookings from new and old members alike and a great night is always enjoyed. Tonight we head to Café Rogano – downstairs from Rogano the iconic, seafood restaurant on Exchange Place, just off Buchanan Street. Decked out in the Art Deco style, Rogano is said to be Glasgow’s oldest restaurant while the downstairs Café Rogano, is suggested as being the ‘perfect introduction to fine dining’. Café Rogano has a bistro style menu which combines classic dishes and old favourites. Scottish seafood is the main attraction at Café Rogano although diners who are less keen on fish are by no means left out – Thai beef salads, lamb tagines, steaks and vegetarian choices are all available. From oysters au naturel to smoked salmon and seafood linguini, Café Rogano’s a la carte is packed with classic dishes. Other choices take their culinary cues from more exotic places. Tonight we will dine from 2 courses from the A la Carte menu with service included. rd Includes: 2 Course Dinner, Service. Extras: 3 Course, Drinks, Supplements
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SPICE SCOTLAND EVENT LISTINGS AUTUMN & CHRISTMAS 2013
Edinburgh Art Fair Charity Preview Evening Date: Thursday 14th November 2013 Place: The Edinburgh Corn Exchange, 11 Newmarket Rd. Edinburgh (EH14 1RJ) Time: 6:30pm to 9:30pm Cost: £10 Returning for its 9th outing this November, The Edinburgh Art Fair will bring together 60 galleries from around the world to Scotland’s capital city. Once again the Edinburgh Corn Exchange, Best Large Venue 2011and 2012 at the Scottish Event Awards, plays host to Scotland’s premier art fair and looks forward to welcoming the thousands of art lovers and buyers who regularly descend upon the event to indulge themselves in their love of all thing’s artistic. With literally thousands of original artworks and showcasing the work of hundreds of professional artists in a friendly and relaxed setting, the fair is an event to be experienced by everyone who loves art and is not solely the preserve of the social elite. For those who have always wanted to visit an art gallery but have maybe felt a little intimidated, it is a fantastic opportunity to shed those fears and let yourself be immersed in the atmosphere and guided by those gallery curators who are on hand to discuss and explain their work in a relaxed and friendly way.. Tonight is the Charity Preview Evening in aid of Maggies. The evening includes a glass of wine and all proceeds st go the Maggies Centres. Tickets are available on a 1 come basis and will be purchased according to demand.
Meal B4 Bar Night - The Living Room Date: Friday 15th November 2013 Place: The Living Room, 113 George St. Edinburgh (EH2 4JN) Time: 7pm Cost: £20 Member, £22 Guest Includes: 3 Course Dinner, Service. We head to the acclaimed Living Room Bar and Restaurant in Edinburgh. The Living Room is a cool, airy piano bar & restaurant in earthy tones and has the added bonus of being in the city centre. We meet at 7pm and will dine on a great menu of 3 courses from a set menu. This is the perfect event to enjoy a night on the town and meet and mingle with other Spice members. After dinner we will head to the bar area and enjoy a bar night. Includes: 2 Course Dinner, Gratuity. Not Included: 3rd Course, Drinks
A Play a Pie and a Pint - Janis Joplin - Full Tilt Date: Saturday 16th November 2013 Place: Oran Mor, Great Western Rd, Glasgow (G12 8QX) Time: 12pm Cost: £16.50 Member, £18 Guest We return to Oran Mor where entry includes a drink of your choice, a pie, and a short play. On stage a woman stands, the greatest rock singer of her generation. Standing around her is the hottest band that a record company can buy. In front of her, an audience of thousands of expectant fans. She is Janis Joplin. She is utterly alone. A celebration of a sound, a scream of protest at the universe. Full Tilt Boogie. Please meet at the ticket office at Oran Mor.
Tenpin Bowling - Glasgow Date: Saturday 16th November 2013 Place: AMF Bowling, Unit 2, Springfield Quay, Glasgow (G5 8NP) Time: 7:45pm Cost: £12 Member, £13 Guest Ten pin bowling is a great way to enjoy a group evening. Tonight we head to Springfield Quay to AMF Bowling. We have booked 2 lanes for 2 games of bowling. Shoe hire is also included. Please meet your coordinator at the shore hire desk.
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SPICE SCOTLAND EVENT LISTINGS AUTUMN & CHRISTMAS 2013
Margaret's Walk - Swanston Circuit Date: Sunday 17th November 2013 Place: Swanston-Castlelaw-Boghall Circuit (EH10 7DS) Meet: See Event Write Up Time: 10am Cost: £3 Member, £4 Guest Duration: 4-5 hours Distance: 7 miles, 1600ft ascent Enjoy a circular walk from Swanston where we follow good tracks and paths, taking us up and through the Allermuir-Castlelaw Hill, where we have open views of the southern Pentland Hill range skyline. We then drop to Castlelaw where we will take a quick detour to visit Castlelaw Iron Age hill fort and souterrain before taking the (relatively) newly opened footpath that connects this area up with Woodhouselee, Boghall and the east end of Caerketton. A final short but steep climb brings us to the top of the ski slope at Hillend where we contour around the hill before descending through the historic village of Swanston to return to the start. Though this walk is on good tracks and paths, standard hill walking equipment (walking boots, waterproofs, poles if you use them) are recommended as paths can be muddy/moderately steep and we will be exposed to the elements of the Scottish summer when up the hill! Please bring a packed lunch and a drink as we will be out on the hill at lunch time. Directions Meet at Swanston Public Car Park which is for the use of visitors to the Pentland Hills. The car park is located next to the Golf Club House at Swanston (Post Code for golf club house is EH10 7DS). Margaret’s mobile phone number is 07407 649269. Please let her know if you are delayed or unable to make the walk.
Rock Climbing - Indoor - Aberdeen Date: Sunday 17th November 2013 Place: Transition Extreme, Links Rd. Aberdeen (AB24 5NN) Time: 11am Cost: £19 Member, £21 Guest Transition Extreme is a world class extreme sports facility right on your doorstep and its here we will participate in our very own Spice exclusive Rock Climbing Taster session. Today we will receive a private 1 hour group session under the watchful eye of our own instructor. Slots are limited to 6 which will give us a full insight into this active sport. Whilst this activity is suitable for most a certain standard of fitness is required. All equipment is st provided but please wear sturdy trainers and loose comfortable clothing – no jeans. This is our 1 visit to the centre and won’t be our last, we are also planning a private 2 hour session on the airpark – not to be missed – full details in the spring.
Theatre - Shang A Lang Date: Tuesday 19th November 2013 Place: Kings Theatre, 297 Bath St. Glasgow (G2 4JN) Time: 7:10pm Cost: £18 Member, £20 Guest Shang-a-Lang is the unmissable, feel good play from Catherine Johnson, the writer of the smash hit musical Mamma Mia! Three forty-something Scottish women decide to relive their youth by going to a 70s revival weekend in Butlins, where the Bay City Rollers are playing. Our three girls were Rollerettes back in the day but lack rock and roll in their middle age. Can you ever recapture your youth, and if you could, would you really want to? Join us as our three heroines; sex mad and gallus Lauren, dissatisfied and scunnnered Jackie and sad-sack and slightly desperate Pauline, take a trip back in time to the decade where the fashion was unforgettable and the music memorable. Will Lauren stay sober, will Jackie stay married and will Pauline ever find her own ‘Woody’? Presented by Rapture, Shang-a-Lang continues their reputation for combining quality and populism with a top notch cast of Scottish performers bringing the humour and drama of the script to thrilling life! Laced with laughs, tears and a fabulous soundtrack, book now for a guaranteed good night out!
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SPICE SCOTLAND EVENT LISTINGS AUTUMN & CHRISTMAS 2013
Meal - New Members - La Lombada - Aberdeen Date: Wednesday 20th November 2013 Place: La Lombada, 2 King Street, Aberdeen (AB24 5AX) Time: 7pm Cost: £15.50 Member, £17 Guest La Lombarda is a traditional, rustic Italian restaurant located on King Street in Aberdeen city centre, which claims to be to the oldest Italian in the UK, having been established in 1922. La Lombarda uses only the freshest, local produce to create its trademark Italian fare. The restaurant has a cosy and relaxed atmosphere with a traditional Italian décor – dark wood, gingham table cloths and opera in the background – suggesting all the comforts of home. Whilst this is a new members dinner everyone is welcome as most are relatively new anyway! A great way to get started with Spice and a great way to break up the week. We will dine on 2 courses from a set menu with service included. rd Includes: 2 Course Dinner, Service. Extras: 3 Course, Drinks, Main Course Supplements on a couple of dishes.
3 City Team Digital Photo Challenge Date: Friday 22nd November 2013 Place: Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Glasgow Meet: See Event Write Up Time: 7pm A 3 City Digital Team Photo Challenge. One of the most unusual and fun nights you’ll have. Let me explain……. You can enter as a team or just come along and we’ll put you in a team. Our Team Photo Challenge is the perfect way to spend an evening enjoying a good laugh with some drink, some strolling, some scrounging and some snapping! This is a true test of Spice initiative and sense of humour. Each team will require a digital camera (please advise when booking if you have one available) – the quality of camera, and photography, is unimportant – this is a test of initiative not of photographic expertise. We will provide you with a list of photographs to be obtained, these could be film extracts, people based ie a photo of the tallest person you can find etc, all improvised and a couple of handy props will be available. You have artistic license to create the shot you think will be funniest/most accurate etc. We will have teams competing in Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Glasgow and all photos will be uploaded to the web (we will create a private page for us all to view and marks awarded). The winning team gets the honour of being the Spice 3 City Digital Team Photo Champions! Meeting Details for each city will be advised beforehand. When booking please state (if not obvious by your postcode) which city you would like to take part in. This event is free but please book in advance so we know you are coming. If you do not book you wont know the start points!
A Night at The Dogs - Dinner and Racing Date: Saturday 23rd November 2013 Place: Shawfield Greyhound Stadium, 137 Rutherglen Road, Glasgow (G73 1SZ) Time: 7pm Cost: £27.50 Member, £30 Guest Spice head to Shawfield Greyhound Racing Track for an excellent evening of dog racing. This is a top night at the dogs…guaranteed great fun and possibly quids in if your dog comes home! Shawfield Stadium is Scotland’s premier greyhound racing venue where we will enjoy the full spectacle of Greyhound Racing from the comfort of the Race View Restaurant, with a 3-course meal! We will gather at 7.00 p.m. for our meal in the restaurant from where we can watch the races in warmth and comfort and even have a flutter without leaving our seats, although four bars are open in the stadium, which all overlook the racetrack. Entry is included in the price as well as a racecard for the greyhound racing which will start at 7.50 p.m. and end at around 10.00 p.m. This night just may be your lucky night but even if it’s not, a sure bet is that you’ll have loads of fun and excitement! BOOK NOW! Includes: 3 Course Dinner, Entry to Stadium, Racecard, Service. Extras: Drinks, Betting Money!
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SPICE SCOTLAND EVENT LISTINGS AUTUMN & CHRISTMAS 2013
Murder Mystery at The Maitlandfield Date: Place: Time: Cost:
Saturday 23rd November 2013 Maitlandfield House Hotel, 24 Sidegate, Haddington (EH41 4BZ) 7:30pm £34.50 Member, £37 Guest
Could you murder a good night out? The Maitlandfield House Hotel provides a really super night out with a difference as we return for one of their famous Murder Mystery Dinners. The event will include a five course dinner and the theatre, so you have the best of both worlds - food and entertainment. Imagine the scene, stepping straight into the pages of a medieval story set in history and savour a unique atmosphere that has been centuries in the making. From the time of the early English Conquests. A feast of fine local food, local ale and entertainment awaits you. This is a new plot combining murder, intrigue, suspense and entertainment, with audience participation. This is a must for all budding detectives. A group of actors will present a plot and remain in costume and character, mixing with you throughout the meal and giving you the opportunity to question and grill them. You guess who the murderer is and after the meal all will be revealed in the final act with prizes for the winners.
Eezee Trapezee with Spinal Chord Date: Sunday 24th November 2013 Place: Firhall Complex, 87 Hopehill Road, Glasgow (G20 7HH) Time: 12:15pm to 1:30pm Cost: £18 Member, £20 Guest Welcome to this gradual introduction to the amazing world of aerial acrobatics. A class for those who want to experience the adrenaline rush and gratification of a very unique activity. Start with trapeze and rope and gradually move to other equipment used in the world of new circus. This activity provides new and exciting skills with a great alternative to exercise and keep fit, to socialise and meet people and in general to boost your motivation and self confidence. It is best to wear comfy, layered clothing that is reasonably snug and bring socks. Don't wear skirts or shorts, you want to keep your legs covered. Full meeting and direction details will be sent beforehand. Please are limited so please book early.
Quad Biking Date: Sunday 24th November 2013 Place: Craigluscar Activities, Dumfermline, Fife (KY12 9HT) Meet: Directions will be sent beforehand Time: 11:40am Cost: £42 Member, £46 Guest We head to Fife and Craigluscar Activities for an amazing 1-hour trek – these four-wheeled all terrain vehicles (ATVs) allow the rider to experience the thrills of off-road driving in the beautiful surroundings of Craigluscar Hill. After instruction on controls and safety procedures, we will test these machines to their limits by following an experienced leader over winding hill and forest tracks. You will see wonderful views over the Forth Valley and a variety of wildlife. All the bikes are easily controlled providing a safe but thrilling challenge. All instruction, safety equipment and insurance are supplied, including helmets, gloves and coveralls. The trek lasts for an hour and is suitable for all. This will be an exhilarating experience – Book Now. Meeting details and directions will be sent beforehand.
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SPICE SCOTLAND EVENT LISTINGS AUTUMN & CHRISTMAS 2013
Workshop - Connecting with Angels Date: Monday 25th November 2013 Place: Conservatory, O'Neill's, 71 Albion St. Glasgow (G1 1NY) Time: 7:30pm Cost: £14.50 Member, £16 Guest Tonight we have a real treat for Spice members as we welcome spiritualist and Angel expert Lauren Robertson to present a workshop on the fascinating subject of Angels. Angels are a mystery to many, Angels may be used to help you in your daily life. Angels are not actually religious, they are here to help humanity, but can only help if you ask them. They can assist us with everything! From helping people to get better, and see the bigger picture. Lauren will teach you all about Angels, how to connect with your guardian angel, how to talk to angels, and also how to meditate with them. Angel workshops are fun, informative and interactive, and involve a bit of fact finding, drawing, meditation, energy work and card reading. Whether you are a sceptic or a believer, this workshop will help all of us understand this fascinating subject better. Having Lauren present this workshop is a real coup for Spice Scotland. Lauren is a student of Dorren Virtue (the world's leading Angel practitioner) and world class medium Paul Jacobs. A group evening in Lauren's company will normally cost in excess of £25 each - here's your opportunity to meet and learn from a leading light in the field. For more information about Lauren please visit http://angellauren.wix.com/laurenrobertson
Workshop - Connecting with Angels Date: Tuesday 26th November 2013 Place: The Outhouse, 12a Broughton St. Lane, Edinburgh (EH1 3LY) Time: 7pm Cost: £14.50 Member, £16 Guest Tonight we have a real treat for Spice members as we welcome spiritualist and Angel expert Lauren Robertson to present a workshop on the fascinating subject of Angels. Angels are a mystery to many, Angels may be used to help you in your daily life. Angels are not actually religious, they are here to help humanity, but can only help if you ask them. They can assist us with everything! From helping people to get better, and see the bigger picture. Lauren will teach you all about Angels, how to connect with your guardian angel, how to talk to angels, and also how to meditate with them. Angel workshops are fun, informative and interactive, and involve a bit of fact finding, drawing, meditation, energy work and card reading. Whether you are a sceptic or a believer, this workshop will help all of us understand this fascinating subject better. Having Lauren present this workshop is a real coup for Spice Scotland. Lauren is a student of Dorren Virtue (the world's leading Angel practitioner) and world class medium Paul Jacobs. A group evening in Lauren's company will normally cost in excess of £25 each - here's your opportunity to meet and learn from a leading light in the field. For more information about Lauren please visit http://angellauren.wix.com/laurenrobertson
Connecting with Angels - Lauren will be coming to Aberdeen in the New Year
Skittles at The Sheep Heid Inn Date: Wednesday 27th November 2013 Place: The Sheep Heid Inn, 43 The Causeway, Duddingston, Edinburgh (EH15 3QA) Time: 8pm Cost: £7 Member, £8 Guest A great night….. the chance to mix and mingle over a game of skittles in Scotland’s oldest surviving public house – The Sheep Heid Inn. The evening includes 2 games that usually take around 2 hours. Teams will be allocated on the night. Early dinner? If you would like to meet at 7pm for dinner (payable on the night) please let us know when booking and we’ll reserve a table. Spaces are limited so please book early.
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SPICE SCOTLAND EVENT LISTINGS AUTUMN & CHRISTMAS 2013
Bar Night Buffet at Arthenaeum - Aberdeen Date: Friday 29th November 2013 Place: Artehnaeum, 5 - 9 Union St. Aberdeen (AB11 5BU) Time: 7:30pm Cost: £8 Member, £9 Guest We are delighted to have reserved an area in the fantastic Arthenaeum for our first ever Bar Night Buffet in Aberdeen. This simple formula has been a real hit in the central belt of Scotland and is the perfect start to your weekend. Arthenaeum is a happy, bustling place with a quirky, welcoming interior that is well established as having one of the most adventurous drinks and food menus in the city. Great wines, beers and cocktails ensure every taste is catered for. Included in the cost of the evening is a light buffet (a selection of the chefs specials) that will be served at 8pm. Whilst there should be plenty to eat this shouldn’t be your main meal of the evening – this is a lite bite. This is the perfect start to your weekend and great way for members to enjoy an excellent mix and mingle in the city. Meeting details will be sent beforehand. Please do not turn up to this event booking as we need to confirm numbers in advance,
Meal - Greek @ Zorba's Date: Friday 29th November 2013 Place: Zorba's, 25 High St., Merchant City, Glasgow (G1 1LX) Time: 7:30pm Cost: £20 Member, £22 Guest A welcome return to Zorba Mediterranean Taverna, located on High Street just north of Glasgow Cross, always a great evening! We have arranged a two course Greek meal from an extensive menu and with half a bottle of wine included, the fun starts here. Includes: 2 Course Dinner, Service, Spice Host, Half Bottle of Wine. Extras: What else could you want!
A Play - Pie and a Pint - Guilty - Aberdeen Date: Saturday 30th November 2013 Place: The Lemontree, 5 North West St. Aberdeen (AB24 5AT) Time: 12pm Cost: £13 Member, £14 Guest We head to the Lemontree for a lunch time Play, a Pie and a Pint. It really is that simple – a one hour theatre production by some of the countries top writers with tasty bite and tipple included. Today we will see Guilty by Rona Munro - A child murder. A suspect. A police inspector. An interview. Two women face each other in a small st windowless room. What is revealed is the nature of innocence. Tickets are limited and available on a 1 come basis. Meeting details will be sent beforehand. Price includes booking fee and Spice host.
Bar Night Buffet at Arta Date: Saturday 30th November 2013 Place: Arta, 62 Albion Street, Glasgow (G1 1 NY) Time: 7:30pm Cost: £5 Member, £6 Guest Join us for another of our popular bar nights in the Merchant City. Arta for those who have yet to visit is a stunning venue in the heart of the Merchant City. This event is popular with members in the West of Scotland. An excellent social Spice evening as we enjoy a bar night in Arta. A light buffet will also be served around 8pm. The evening is a great way for new, returning and existing members to enjoy a night on the town. We ask that all attending book in advance to help planning and table allocations.
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SPICE SCOTLAND EVENT LISTINGS AUTUMN & CHRISTMAS 2013
The Balmoral Cocktail Tastings Date: Saturday 30th November 2013 Place: The Balmoral Bar, Princes St. Edinburgh (EH2 2EQ) Time: 7:30pm Cost: £32 Member, £35 Guest The Balmoral Bar is Edinburgh's most elegant and stylish bar, located within the city's most prestigious address – 1 Princes Street. Formerly known as NB's, The Balmoral Bar has been transformed by Rocco Forte Hotels' Director of Design – Olga Polizzi - who created a chic and modern destination. The Bar is adorned with plush purple velvet and vibrant moss-green leather chairs and banquettes, complemented by natural fabrics such as linen and tweed in warm Scottish tones. The cocktail tastings consist of a 5 course menu
Curling Taster - Murrayfield Ice Rink Date: Sunday 1st December 2013 Place: Murrayfield Ice Rink, Riversdale Crescent, Edinburgh (EH12 5XN) Time: 9:15am to 11:30am Cost: £22.50 Member, £25 Guest We head Murrayfield Ice Rink to ‘try’ curling - your opportunity to learn the basics and get started. Curling is great fun and provides a little light exercise and is the perfect sport for the winter as it’s played indoors. You will see a major development in your game during this visit, that’s what makes it such great fun and almost anyone can play. A professional coach will teach us the basics before we have a go ourselves. You’ll need to wear loose, warm clothing (inc. warm socks!) and extremely clean flat shoes or trainers. Curling is great fun for beginners and proficient players alike. We can expect to be on the ice for almost 2 hours so please arrive promptly for 11.15pm. Cost includes all equipment, tuition and ice time.
Ice Climbing Taster at The Ice Wall Date: Sunday 1st December 2013 Place: The Ice Wall, Snow Factor, Xscape, Braehead, Glasgow (PA4 8QX) Time: 1:45pm Cost: £35 Member, £38 Guest A truly remarkable experience - become an Ice Warrior! Experience the challenge of climbing up steep ice at the world's biggest urban ice climbing walls at Snow Factor, Xscape Braehead. Your instructor will coach you on the basic skills required and supervise your session throughout to ensure your safety and enjoyment. Starting on easy angled slabs, you will get the opportunity of climbing and belaying (holding your climbing partner's rope, through an approved belay device and helping lower them slowly back to the ground) with as much climbing as you can handle during your session. Your instructor will issue you with boots and crampons (the metal points for climbing up the ice), ice axes and harness/helmet. You should bring warm clothing with you (clothing can be hired on site if needs be). The session is not a skills session, the emphasis is on fun and enjoyment. This is a private group session lasting around 1 ½ hours with a maximum of 4 spaces. Please book early to secure your slot.
Pool Night Date: Wednesday 4th December 2013 Place: The New Yorker, 25 Jocks Lodge, Edinburgh (EH8 7AA) Time: 7pm Cost: £6 Member, £7 Guest A pool night in the convivial surroundings of The New Yorker at Meadowbank. – a welcoming fully licensed venue with good quality pool tables. The price includes day membership (if you don’t have a membership and 2 hours’ table time. We will mix the players around and play a mix of singles and doubles. Don’t worry if you don’t play as we will be playing a very relaxed game, probably doubles, which should be great fun for all. BOOK EARLY!
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SPICE SCOTLAND EVENT LISTINGS AUTUMN & CHRISTMAS 2013
Christmas Center Parcs Date: Fri 6th Dec 2013 - Mon 9th Dec 2013 Place: Center Parcs Whinfell Forest, Penrith (CA10 2DW) Cost: £139 Member, £159 Guest, £214 Member Sole Occ (Deposit £30) See Page 11 for full details
A Christmas Panto, Pie and a Pint - The Uglies Date: Saturday 7th December 2013 Place: Oran Mor, Great Western Rd, Glasgow (G12 8QX) Time: 1pm Cost: £16 Member, £17.50 Guest We return to Oran Mor where entry includes a drink of your choice, a pie, and a short Christmas Panto. Òran Mór’s annual Christmas Panto by Dave Anderson and David MacLennan for grown up children has become a not to miss Festive Season comedy treat. Boo, cheer and sing-along, Oh,yes you will. Only suitable for real children with very liberal parents. This year the Panto is The Uglies – full details have yet to be released but they will appear here when they do. Includes Booking Fee. Please meet the VC outside Oran Mor.
Karen's Walk - Old Aberdeen and Beach Circuit Date: Sunday 8th December 2013 Place: Old Aberdeen (AB24 5NR) Meet: Beach Ballroom, The Promenade Time: 11am Cost: £3 Join Vc walk leader Karen Cochlan for a lovely winter walk that’s close to home. The walk features an unexpected mixture of fabulous sea front, picturesque riverside and woodland combined with an exploration of the cobbled streets. The walk is 5 miles in distance and should take around 3 hours. This walk is on designated paths and is suitable for all. Please wear appropriate footwear and dress for the weather. Please meet at The Beachfront Ballroom (there is plenty of parking on the Promenade and local bus services run to the start point too.
Christmas Quiz Night - Aberdeen Date: Tuesday 10th December 2013 Place: O'Neill's, 9 - 10 Back Wynd, Aberdeen (AB10 1JN) Time: 7pm Cost: £5 Member, £6 Guest An annual favourite – super fun and an event that will definitely get you in the festive swing! Be prepared for anything as we have a laugh during the build up to Christmas. Our Christmas Quiz will have the usual mix of General Knowledge and Music trivia plus a bit of yuletide knowledge and some special features! This is always one of the most popular and fun quizzes of the year so please BOOK EARLY! There will be prizes on offer.
Edinburgh's Winter Wonderland Date: Saturday 14th December 2013 Place: East Princess Street Gardens Meet: The Scott Monument Time: 2pm A good opportunity to get out and enjoy Edinburgh’s Christmas festivities with Jamie acting as group leader. We have a plan, albeit not set in stone…… There is so much going on we will try to do as much as time permits, expect to enjoy the Christmas Markets, sample some Christmas cuisine and mulled wine. Try or watch the ice skating and even try a few rides at the fairground. Afterwards we may even find a local tavern and enjoy a warming drink. This is free day and everyone just pays as they go. This will be a lovely Edinburgh experience and there may even be time to do some Christmas shopping afterwards. Please book in advance so we know you are going and meet Jamie outside the Scott Monument entrance.
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SPICE SCOTLAND EVENT LISTINGS AUTUMN & CHRISTMAS 2013
Mark's Glasgow Christmas On Ice Date: Saturday 14th December 2013 Place: George Square, Glasgow Meet: See Event Write Up Time: 2pm Not a meander as such but an opportunity to get out and enjoy Glasgow’s Christmas festivities with Mark Biagioni acting as group leader. We have a plan, albeit not set in stone…… There is so much going on we will try to do as much as time permits, expect to enjoy the Christmas German Markets, sample some Christmas cuisine and mulled wine. Try or watch the ice skating and even try a few rides at the fairground. Afterwards we may even find a local tavern and enjoy a warming drink. This is free day and everyone just pays as they go. This will be a lovely Glasgow experience and there may even be time to do some Christmas shopping afterwards. Please book in advance so we know you are going and meet Mark outside the Blue Lagoon under Central Station Bridge.
Spice Aberdeen Christmas Lunch at Cosmo Date: Sunday 15th December 2013 Place: Cosmo, LSU3 Union Square, Aberdeen (AB11 5RG) Time: 1:30pm Cost: £20 Member, £22 Guest st For our 1 ever Spice Aberdeen Christmas we are going global we enjoy the Pan Asian and Global Kitchen at Cosmo. That said the Christmas menu reflects this world food theme but with a traditional feel too. We will dine on 3 courses from the menu (buffet style) and as always with Spice, in great company. Please book in advance th to help with table planning. Meeting details will be sent beforehand but make Sunday 15 December your Spice Christmas Lunch day. After dinner we’re sure to make an afternoon of it and enjoy the festive mood. Includes: 3 Course Christmas Lunch, Spice Host. Extras: Drinks, Service
Spice Edinburgh Christmas Lunch at Maison Bleue Date: Sunday 15th December 2013 Place: Maison Bleue, 36 Victoria St. Edinburgh (EH1 2JW) Time: 1:30pm Cost: £24.50 Member, £27 Guest Includes: 3 Course Christmas Lunch, Service An annual highlight and stunning when we visited last year as we head to the excellent Maison Bleue for our Spice Christmas Lunch. Maison Bleue Restaurant offers French, North African and traditional Scottish cuisine using cooking skills from each of these regions. Using only fresh local produce, delivered daily by highly reputable suppliers, Maison Bleue offers a lovely dining venue. The food is then prepared and cooked by the experienced and highly skilled chefs, most of whom are native to these regions. The restaurant is set in the heart of Edinburgh's historic old town and has several outstanding features. These include impressive stone arches, a spiral wooden staircase and a unique interior design scheme. This adds both charm and character and enhances the overall effect, giving the diner a real sense of old Edinburgh. Last, but not least, service is provided by the friendly, knowledgeable and efficient staff whose sole purpose is to ensure that we enjoy a highly pleasurable dining experience. Today we will dine on 3 courses from the Christmas menu. After dinner we will enjoy what the city can offer and make an afternoon of it. Includes: 3 Course Dinner, Service. Extras: Drinks
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SPICE SCOTLAND EVENT LISTINGS AUTUMN & CHRISTMAS 2013
Spice Glasgow Christmas Lunch at Verona Date: Sunday 15th December 2013 Place: Verona, 88 West Regent St. Glasgow (G2 2 QZ) Meet: Venue Time: 1:30pm Cost: £18.50 Member, £20 Guest rd Our Glasgow Christmas Lunch is now in its 3 year and this year we have arranged a great 3 course Christmas Lunch with wine for a brilliant price. Verona – in Glasgow, not Italy – is a modern Italian restaurant on the city centre side of West Regent Street. The staff are very attentive and the atmosphere is friendly making it perfect for a Spice gathering. Today we will dine on 3 courses from the Christmas menu with glass of wine and service th included. Make Sunday 15 December you Christmas Spice Day and book now. Includes: 3 Course Christmas Lunch, Glass of Wine, Service. Extras: Extra Drinks
Christmas Quiz Night - Glasgow Date: Monday 16th December 2013 Place: The Conservatory, O'Neill's, Albion Street, Glasgow (G1 1NY) Time: 7pm Cost: £5 Member, £6 Guest An annual favourite – super fun and an event that will definitely get you in the festive swing! Be prepared for anything as we have a laugh during the build up to Christmas. Our Christmas Quiz will have the usual mix of General Knowledge and Music trivia plus a bit of yuletide knowledge and some special features! This is always one of the most popular and fun quizzes of the year so please BOOK EARLY! There will be prizes on offer.
Christmas Quiz Night - Edinburgh Date: Tuesday 17th December 2013 Place: The Outhouse, 12a Broughton Street Lane, Edinburgh (EH1 3LY) Time: 7pm Cost: £5 Member, £6 Guest You can get Book-It to insert an event write-up here for you automatically. Simply go to the events screen and find this event then click on the button labelled 'Edit Write-Up' on the write-up page. When you have saved and closed your write-up just run the newsletter again. You can include text, images, tables and just about anything else that your Word is capable of in your write-up.
Glasgow Christmas Party Night 2013 Date: Saturday 21st December 2013 Place: Menzies Hotel, 27 Washington Street, Glasgow (G3 8AZ) Meet: Glasgow Time: 7pm Cost: £34.50 Member, £37 Guest Our annual Xmas Party Night – a great night of entertainment – the perfect opportunity for Christmas celebrations. This year we head to a brand new venue – The 4 star Menzies Hotel. This great venue offers everything in one place, dining, dancing and drinking at a great price. We meet at 7pm before we sit down to a fabulous 3 course festive dinner. After dinner the dancing begins and with a DJ playing till late a great night is on offer. Get your glad rags on and get ready to PARTY! Includes: 3 Course Dinner, Entertainment. Extras: Drinks
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SPICE SCOTLAND EVENT LISTINGS AUTUMN & CHRISTMAS 2013
Meal and Music - Cafe Source & Cosmopolitan Big Band Date: Friday 27th December 2013 Place: Cafe Source, 1 St Andrews in the Square, Glasgow (G1 5PP) Time: 7:30pm Cost: £30 Member, £33 Guest We’ve featured the Cosmopolitan Big Band a few times over the years with fantastic feedback. This time to ensure we get the best seats we will enjoy dinner at Café Source before relaxing to enjoy our evening. We will enjoy a sumptious 3 courses. After dinner the Cosmopolitan Big Band entertain - The Band features a selection of high quality guest vocalists from across the city to round off a highly entertaining evening. We only have 10 slots for this evening so early booking is strongly encouraged. Includes: 3 Course Dinner, Entertainment. Extras: Service, Extra Drinks
Walking Break - Twixtmas Break in the Lakes Date: Fri 27th Dec 2013 - Sun 29th Dec 2013 Place: Glaramara, Borrowdale (CA12 5XQ) Cost: £185 Member, £205 Guest, £190 Member Single, £210 Guest Single (Deposit £50) Includes: 2 nights accommodation, 2 evening meals, 2 picnic lunches, 2 breakfasts, 2 days guided walks Full details available on Page 12
Walking Break - New Year in Glaramara Date: Sun 29th Dec 2013 - Wed 1st Jan 2014 Place: Glaramara, Borrowdale (CA12 5XQ) Cost: £339 Member, £359 Guest, £344 Member Single, £364 Guest Single (Deposit £70) Includes: 3 breakfasts, 2 evening meals and a New Year Gala dinner, and New Years Party 3 picnic lunches, 3 days of guided walks Full details available on Page 12
Edinburgh's Hogmany 2013 Date: Mon 30th Dec 2013 - Wed 1st Jan 2014 Place: Edinburgh - Home of Hogmanay (EH4 1PW) Cost: £259 Member, £279 Guest (Deposit £50) Includes: 2 Nights bed and breakfast accomodation, Concert in the Gardens ticket, Torchlight Procession Ticket, Services of a Spice Coordinator throughout. See Page 13 for full details
Aberdeen Hogmanay Ceilidh Date: Tuesday 31st December 2013 Place: The Beach Ballroom, Beach Promenade (AB24 5NR) Time: 7:30pm Cost: £43 Member, £45 Guest Bring in the New Year with a traditional Hogmanay ceilidh with music from Clachan Yell at The Beach Ballroom. The evening includes the Bucksburn Mini Pipe Band, Piper, Scottish stovies and a glass of bubbly to bring in the New Year! st Tickets are limited and available on a 1 come basis. This is a public event that we have secured tickets for. Price includes booking fee. Meeting details will be sent beforehand.
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SPICE SCOTLAND EVENT LISTINGS AUTUMN & CHRISTMAS 2013
An Indian Hogmanay - Glasgow Date: Tuesday 31st December 2013 Place: Masala Twist, 192 Byres Rd. Glasgow (G12 8SN) Time: 8pm Cost: £35 Member, £38 Guest Having searched high and low for an alternative Hogmanay Celebration this year we have found a real treat. We are heading for an Indian Hogmanay at the Masala Twist’s Hogmanay Bash. This night really has it all – we begin with a 4 course Hogmanay Bash Menu, a Belly Dance Show, Bubbly at the Bells and disco till late – everything you could possibly want for this lively fun evening. Please book early to help with planning as a great night is on offer. Includes: 4 Course Dinner, Belly Dancing, Bubbly at the Bells, Disco till late. Extras: Drinks, Service.
Meal - Champagne Hogmanay Dinner at Merchants Date: Tuesday 31st December 2013 Place: Merchants, 17 Merchant Street, Edinburgh (EH1 2QD) Time: 7pm Cost: £30 Member, £33 Guest Includes: 3 Course Dinner, Glass of Wine, Coffee/Tea, Champagne Welcome As part of our Spice Hogmanay Celebrations we are delighted to feature a Champagne Hogmanay Dinner at our favorite restaurant Merchants. You will be greeted with a Champagne welcome followed by a 3-course gourmet dinner from an extensive choice, freshly ground coffee/tea, a glass of red or white wine with your meal and the tip has already been paid! Book now for the perfect start to your Hogmanay evening. Includes: Champagne Welcome, 3 Course Dinner, Glass of Wine, Coffee/Tea, Service. Not Included: Extra Drinks. Please arrive prompt at 7pm. NB. We will not be at Merchants for the Bells.
Edinburgh's Hogmanay - Concert in the Gardens Date: Tuesday 31st December 2013 Place: Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh Time: 10pm Cost: £47 Member, £50 Guest We have secured tickets for Scotland’s flagship Hogmanay event – The Concert in the Gardens but this year with VIP Enclosure tickets! It’s the party of the year. Most of the tickets have been allocated to our Hogmanay weekenders but we some spares for Scottish Spice members to book. These tickets are only available if booking the Champagne Dinner at Merchants too – make a real Hogmanay and book now. The headline act has been announced as The Pet Shop Boys. Tickets will be given at the Champagne Hogmanay Dinner at Merchants on the evening.
Hogmanay Ceilidh at Lauriston Hall Date: Tuesday 31st December 2013 Place: Lauriston Hall, 28 Lauriston St., Edinbu (EH3 9DJ) Time: 10am Cost: £23 Member, £25 Guest A Hogmanay celebration at Lauriston Hall near Tollcross. One thing you always get at these ceilidhs is a great night of dancing and a friendly crowd. The first 10 tickets are available at a reduced rate, after these 10 have sold the cost will rise by £5 for any extra tickets required. As per cancellation policy tickets cannot be refunded unless resold if you need to cancel. Make a real evening of it book the Champagne Hogmanay Dinner at Merchants earlier in the evening. From here you can head to ceilidh with the crowd. If you do not book dinner will need to collect your ticket for the evening from Merchants Restaurant between 8pm and 9pm on the evening. If you have any queries please contact the Spice office.
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SPICE SCOTLAND EVENT LISTINGS AUTUMN & CHRISTMAS 2013
Preview Evening - Glasgow - O'Neill's Date: Monday 6th January 2014 Place: The Conservatory, O' Neill's, 71 Albion, Glasgow (G1 1NY) Time: 8pm Please see Preview evenings Page 7 for details
Preview Night - Edinburgh Date: Tuesday 7th January 2014 Place: The Outhouse, 12a Broughton St. Lane, Edinburgh (EH1 3LY) Time: 8pm See Preview Evenings Page 7 for full details
Preview Night - Aberdeen Date: Wednesday 8th January 2014 Place: O'Neill's, 9 - 10 Back Wynd, Aberdeen (AB10 1JN) Time: 8pm See Preview Evenings Page 7 for full details
Spice Scotland January Ball 2014 Date: Saturday 11th January 2014 Place: The Edinburgh Hilton Grosvenor, 21 Grosvenor Street, Edinburgh (EH12 5EF) Time: 7pm to 1am Cost: £40 (Deposit £10) Includes: Welcome Drink, 3 Course Dinner with Coffee/Tea and Glass of Wine/Bottle of Beer, Entertainment courtesy of the amazing Hip Operation - and of course a great night! See Page 16 for full event details
Theatre - West Side Story Date: Wednesday 15th January 2014 Place: Kings Theatre, 297 Bath Street, Glasgow (G2 4JN) Time: 7:10pm Cost: £40 Member, £44 Guest With ground breaking choreography by the legendary Jerome Robbins, book by Arthur Laurents, an unforgettable score by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, West Side Story changed the face of musical theatre for ever.
Alison's Walk - Water of Leith - Part 2 Date: Sunday 19th January 2014 Place: Water of Leith (EH14 1TQ) Time: 10:30am Cost: £2 Member, £3 Guest Water of Leith part 2 - The Water of Leith walkway is approx 12 miles long and passes through many areas of Edinburgh: Colinton Village and Dell, the Union Canal, Saughton Winter Gardens, Murrayfield Stadium, the Scottish Gallery of Modern Art, Dean Village, Stockbridge, then finally on to the waterfront at Leith. In this second walk we will follow the route from Slateford down to Leith, approx 6.5 miles. Parts of the route through Stockbridge have been closed for a while due to extensive flood prevention works. This work should be completed over the summer and we will be able to enjoy the re-opened path, including some new sections. Once we get to Leith there are plenty options for refreshments. We will get the bus back to the start to collect any cars that have been left there. Meet Alison at 10:30 outside the Water of Leith Visitor Centre at Slateford. Distance 6.5 miles, flat, approx 3 hours.
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SPICE SCOTLAND EVENT LISTINGS AUTUMN & CHRISTMAS 2013
The ‘Nuts & Bolts’ of Spice… Office Hours: The Spice Office is open between 10am and 5pm Monday to Friday and you can call on 0131 553 0026. There is also a 24hr answer service. In the event of a real emergency, try the mobile 07584 285817. How to Join Spice: • • •
You can join online at www.spicescotland.com/about/join-spice If you’ve received and enquiry pack, simply complete and return the membership form along with completed DD mandate. Alternatively, just call the Spice office and we’ll complete the paperwork for you over the phone.
Booking onto Events: • •
A secure booking service is available at www.spicescotland.com or.. Call us on 0131 553 0026 to book over the phone or..
Please note: Bookings are only secure when payment has been received. You may lose your slot if another member books whilst your ‘cheque is in the post’. Never simply ‘turn up’ at an event as it’s unfair to all concerned – particularly to those who have taken the time to book. It may also mean a wasted journey if we can’t accommodate you. Late Bookings: We often have slots available at the last minute due to cancellations etc. Please call the office for details and be ready to pay by card to secure your place. Some events do fill up so the best advice is to book early to avoid disappointment. Confirmation of Bookings: We confirm all bookings by email if you have given us your email address. You can also check your bookings at www.spicescotland.com. We will contact you if there is a problem with your booking or if the event has been postponed or cancelled. You will be sent a text on the day (or on Friday for a weekend event) with final meeting details. For some events (particularly weekends away) you will receive a joining pack about 2 weeks before departure. This will be sent by email and will include directions, what to take, itinerary and transport share options. If you can’t make an event: If at all possible, please contact the Spice office or the event coordinator if you have their number. This is important for several reasons. Firstly, other members may be left waiting for you to arrive and this is unfair. Secondly some events require minimum numbers and your no show could mean we drop below these numbers. Finally, if you let us know you cannot attend we may be able to issue a refund depending on the type of event and whether we can resell your place. For full details please see the Spice Cancellation Policy. Guests: You may see an event with a Guest Fee applicable. Guests are welcome to attend Spice Events at a special price. The member who books a guest is responsible for their conduct on the event and is responsible for passing on any event information, particularly late changes to the event etc. We also ask that each guest attend only 3 events, after which time we would expect them to join – in the long run this can work out cheaper as they avoid paying premiums. Transport Share: We are always happy to do our best to link up members for travel share. Once you have booked an event, you can obtain car share info by pressing the ‘Transport’ tab on the relevant event online. Pleas eremember to indicate when booking should you require a lift, are willing to offer or share transport. There is also an option for your details to remain confidential, please let the Spice office know if you want to be removed. Please note: Lift sharing is done by the goodwill of the members and cannot be guaranteed. Cancellation of Membership – To cancel your membership please contact the Spice Scotland office. If you email and get no reply it means your email didn’t find us and your membership has not been cancelled. Most Importantly: Above all, Spice is all about enjoying yourself – so remember to have fun!
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SPICE SCOTLAND EVENT LISTINGS AUTUMN & CHRISTMAS 2013
Spice Facebook Page To view photos you will need to visit Facebook. If you are unfamiliar with Facebook here are some simple instructions. 1. Visit www.facebook.com 2. If already a member log in. If not a member follow the instructions and ‘Sign up for Facebook’ 3. Search for ‘Spice Scotland’ and remember ‘like’ our page
Spice Extras Package As part of your Spice membership you receive Spice Extras - FREE! with new and exclusive deals for a Spice Members nationwide including entry into the Best Rewards Discount Package. In addition to established Partners Discounts with Exodus, Crystal, Trek America, Dateline and many more, Spice Extras now gives access to discounts for shopping, travel, motoring and entertainment. Save on high street gift vouchers including Next, Debenhams, John Lewis, Argos, M&S, Asda, Tesco, Sainsburys! SAVE on your weekly shopping; Breakdown Cover, Days Out, Weekend Breaks and Holidays! Shopping Discounts for gadgets, flowers, chocolates, cosmetics and much more! Visit Spice Extras! on the website @ www.spiceuk.com to register, it takes less than a minute to register and you can start saving straight away. With Spice you could save more than your membership in discounts over the year alone!
Give the Gift of Spice Are you struggling to find the perfect gift for the relative, friend or workmate who has everything? Why not give something different this year for that birthday, anniversary, leaving gift or even the festive period because everyone will appreciate a little bit of extra Spice in their life!
3 Month Package £30 - Three Months Membership plus £30 event vouchers
Spice Scotland Event Vouchers Vouchers are available in multiples of £10 and are perfect for Birthdays, Christmas or simply a kind gesture to a friend - for further details or to arrange a purchase please call us now on 0131 5530026. Vouchers can be used in part or in full towards any scheduled Spice Scotland events. To purchase Spice Vouchers please email us at info@spicescotland.com or phone us on 0131 553 0026.
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