Dragons International Brochure 2017

Your Road To Europe

SCHOOL TOURS BY COACH 2017

• SHORT BREAKS • DAY TRIPS • EXCHANGE TRAVEL INCLUDING CHRISTMAS MARKETS 2016

WELCOME We are delighted to present to you the Dragons International School Tours by Coach brochure for 2017 in which you will find a wide selection of European tours at competitive prices.

Eurotunnel – Shuttle train

P & O Ferries – Spirit of Britain

Brittany Ferries – Mont St Michel

DFDS Seaways – Dover Seaways

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ABOUT DRAGONS INTERNATIONAL

We are proud to be part of the Leons Travel Group Limited, an independentlyowned family company with considerable experience in organising holidays, school tours and tailor-made coach travel.

Dragons International is dedicated to providing an opportunity for young people to experience the culture of another country, improve language skills and to flourish in an environment outside the classroom. From initial enquiry to final destination, we offer a personal, professional and reliable service which gives real value-for-money. Your dedicated Travel Advisor will be committed to ensuring that you receive the very highest levels of service. We take the time to understand your needs in order to create an individual tour programme which will meet your expectations.

OUR COACHES AND DRIVERS

We have a large fleet of executive, airconditioned 49 and 53-seater executive coaches, all with reclining seats, air suspension, seat-belts, DVD player, PA system and toilet. Most of our coaches are provided by our sister companies, Leons Coach Travel Ltd and our most recent acquisition, Happy Days (Woodseaves) Ltd. However, at peak periods, we may use coaches from other carefully selected reputable companies with standards comparable to our own. Unlike many other tour operators, we do not use standard coaches for any of our trips.

Our co-operative and friendly drivers rigorously comply with strict EU regulations governing the number of hours they can work and drive. These regulations will always be taken into account when preparing your tailor-made itinerary.

OUR TRAVEL OPTIONS

For your flexibility, choice and convenience, we work with all the major cross Channel operators: • Eurotunnel – your coach stays on board the Shuttle for the 35 minute journey between Folkestone and Calais.

• Ferry – we normally use P & O ferries for crossings from Dover to Calais (journey time 1½ hours) and DFDS Seaways for crossings from Dover to Dunkirk (journey time 2 hours). Groups wishing to visit certain areas of Normandy may travel with Brittany Ferries from Portsmouth to Caen or Cherbourg.

FINANCIAL SECURITY AND SAFETY

Dragons International is a member of ABTA with membership number W5467. ABTA and ABTA Members help holidaymakers to get the most from their travel and assist them when things do not go according to plan. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you

by ABTA’s Code of Conduct.

For further information about ABTA, the Code of Conduct and the arbitration scheme available to you if you have a complaint, contact: ABTA Ltd. 30 Park St, London SE1 9EQ Tel: 020 3117 0500 or Email: abta@abta.co.uk The safety of our customers is our primary concern and all our team are committed to maintaining our high standards. We monitor the standards of our suppliers to ensure that they meet our high levels of care as well as complying with appropriate regulations.

Group leaders are provided with an emergency telephone number giving direct access to a senior member of our staff.

OUR TOURS CONTENTS

SHORT BREAKS

We offer a wide range of short breaks to popular destinations in France, Belgium and Germany. In the careful selection of our accommodation, we endeavour to provide a safe and secure environment for pupils as well as a choice to suit all tastes and budgets.

MAGICAL CHRISTMAS MARKETS

Visit the magical Christmas markets of Aachen and Köln on a mini-trip with Dragons International. Alternatively, you may wish to stay longer in one of our recommended accommodation centres.

CUSTOMISED TRAVEL AND TOURS

With our large fleet of executive coaches and extremely competitive prices, Dragons International provides the ideal solution to all your coach travel requirements.

DAY TRIPS

The perfect introduction to the culture, history and language of another country, our day trips to France are extremely popular with all ages of pupils. We will tailor-make your day to suit your group’s requirements.

BROCHURE DETAILS / TERMS AND CONDITIONS Brochure Details

The basic prices, offers and information printed in our brochure are valid at the time of publication. We reserve the right to increase or reduce these prices or amend these offers or information at any time after publication and in future editions of the brochure. You will be advised of any changes at the time of booking (if known at that time) or at any subsequent time up to 30 days before departure. In addition, we reserve the right to correct mistakes in advertised, quoted or confirmed prices. All our tours are subject to the availability of transport and accommodation.

Terms and Conditions

Our full terms and conditions will vary slightly depending on the type of tour you choose.

Therefore, we will send you a comprehensive copy with your written quotation/ provisional reservation for our short breaks and with your written quotation for our day trips, travel only and Christmas market options. They are also available on request at any time.

USEFUL INFORMATION Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is included in the price of our short breaks and is non-refundable. For our other tours, we offer an optional travel insurance or alternatively, you can make your own arrangements provided that the resultant policy affords cover comparable to that offered

by Dragons International. A detailed summary of our insurance cover will be sent to you with your quotation. It is also available on request at any time.

Passports, Visas and Health Requirements

British citizens travelling abroad must hold a valid personal passport or be included on a collective passport. The party leader must ensure that all participants, including adults, carry individual passports or are included on a collective passport and that non-British nationals

have appropriate visas. For further information, please contact: www.ips.gov.uk/passport/index. asp Travellers from the United Kingdom to mainland Europe, who are eligible to free or reduced cost emergency medical treatment in the European Economic Area (EEA), will need a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). You can apply by telephone on 0845 606 2030, by picking up an application form from the Post Office or online on www.ehic. org.uk Information from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office produces up-to-date travel information to help British travellers make informed decisions about travelling abroad. For further information, please visit www. gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice Information Collection and Use

In order to assist you with your enquiry, you must provide us with certain contact information and brief details of your requirements. We use this information to contact you about the products and services in which you have expressed interest. Your personal details will only be shared with other companies when it is necessary to obtain information from them to respond to your queries.

Your details will be transferred to our mailing list in order to provide you with our current and future brochures and flyers. If you do not wish to be on our mailing list or if you have any other queries, please email us on: info@dragonsinternational. co.uk or write to us at: Dragons International, Paton Drive, Tollgate Park, Stafford, ST16 3EF Company registration number: 03459625 VAT Registration number: 785 3971 75 Legal Disclaimer: We reserve the right to disclose your personal information as required by law and when we believe that disclosure is necessary to protect our rights and/or comply with a judicial proceeding, court order or legal process.

SHORT BREAKS Introduction

FRANCE

Opal Coast Normandy Loire Valley Futuroscope Paris Disneyland® Paris Parc Astérix Battlefields: The Somme

BELGIUM

Battlefields: Ypres Salient Brussels Ostend

GERMANY

Rhine Valley Introduction Rhine Valley Towns Rhine Valley Cities Moselle/Eifel Berlin Black Forest

GERMAN CHRISTMAS MARKETS 2016 Aachen and Köln

CUSTOMISED TRAVEL Exchange Visits and Tours

DAY TRIPS TO FRANCE Introduction Explore the Towns Visit the attractions Taste the difference

For more information or a quotation call 01785 224420

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SHORT BREAKS TO EUROPE CHOOSE DRAGONS INTERNATIONAL FOR: • A personal, professional and reliable service.

• Extremely competitive prices.

• Executive coaches with reclining seats, seat-belts, DVD player and toilet.

• Experienced, co-operative and friendly drivers.

• Single or twin rooms for staff at no extra cost (subject to availability).

• Minimum pupil numbers of only 24.

• Financial security with full ABTA bonding.

HOW TO BOOK...

• Obtain permission to travel from your Headteacher and Governors.

• Call us to discuss your preferred accommodation centre, travel dates, timings, channel crossings and the estimated size of your group. We will provide you with a customised quotation based on your requirements together with our booking conditions.

• Subject to your acceptance of our quotation, we will check availability at your chosen accommodation centre and will make a provisional reservation without obligation for your group, details of which will be sent to you.

Options are usually held for 3-4 weeks, longer if possible. You may cancel your provisional reservation at any time during this period without any charge.

• Advertise the tour within your school or college and prepare a letter to students/ parents advising them of the visit details, price and payment schedule.

• Send us your deposit of £50 per pupil together with your option confirmation form. On receipt of your deposit, all bookings will be made firm and you will receive a full confirmation pack.

• Some of our accommodation centres may ask for a higher deposit. If this is the case, we will advise you at the time of booking.

• At your convenience, we will discuss your full visit programme in detail and make any necessary arrangements/advance bookings.

• We will require your final payment and details not later than 8 weeks prior to departure.

• Naturally, we would expect you to inform us of any alterations to your group size if they should occur during the intervening period. Details of any relevant price changes due to additions or cancellations will be advised to you.

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BOOKING WITH DRAGONS IS EASY...

At Dragons, we recognise the increasing demands on your time. We aim to make booking with us as easy as possible for you. There are no complicated discount structures or multi-deposit payments – just a few simple steps and you’re almost there.

PRICES

The prices shown in our brochure are our lowest basic prices. These may vary depending on the travel dates, timings and channel crossings you choose.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN YOUR QUOTED TOUR PRICE? • Return travel by executive coach from your school in mainland England or Wales.

• Channel crossings by ferry or shuttle as specified in your quotation. Ferry crossings are normally via Dover /Calais or Dover/Dunkirk. For some of our Normandy tours, we may use crossings from Portsmouth to Caen or Cherbourg.

diets. We will advise you of this if applicable.

• Comprehensive insurance package for all group members (full details available on request).

• Pre-tour confirmation/information pack for group leaders, comprising: • C onfirmation letter and invoice.

•P ersonalised itinerary with dates, times and travel arrangements.

•C hecklist, advice, safety information and notes for your group.

• Relevant forms for completion.

• Tourist information on the areas you have chosen to visit including an appropriate guide book where available.

• Luggage labels.

• Programme research and itinerary booking service.

• Security of ABTA bonding.

• 24 hour emergency helpline.

WHAT IS EXCLUDED?

• All road tolls and taxes.

• Packed lunches (unless otherwise specified). These can usually be preordered – prices on request.

• Use of your coach throughout your tour subject to agreed programme and EU driving regulations.

• Meals on route.

• Free staff places at the ratio of one member of staff to eight paying pupils.

• Drinks with meals at your centre (except for breakfast).

• Certain facilities/activities at your centre – contact us for full details and prices.

• Single or twin rooms for staff (subject to availability).

• Half Board Accommodation (unless otherwise specified). A few of our accommodation centres offer excellent prices for a full board package (breakfast, packed lunch and dinner). Where this is the case, we offer a full board rather than a half board package. Other specific meal packages for certain destinations are clearly shown. Some accommodation centres charge a supplement for special

• Collective/individual passport fees.

• Admission charges to places of interest.

• Personal expenditure.

• Any contingency fund.

FRANCE THE OPAL COAST The Opal Coast provides the perfect opportunity for school groups to experience a genuine French atmosphere with short journey times and a wide range of excursion possibilities.

ACCOMMODATION

CALAIS PLAGE

Éthic Étapes Centre Européen de Séjour Description: Modern, purpose-built centre.

CALAIS and LE TOUQUET

Calais: Calais is an interesting combination of old and new. The flamboyant Town Hall, completed in 1925, is fronted by Rodin’s famous statue of the Six Burghers of Calais. The colourful past of Calais can still be seen in landmarks such as the Watch Tower and the church tower of Notre Dame. Not to be missed are three fascinating museums – the War Museum, the Fine Arts Museum and the contemporary International City of Lace and Fashion Museum. In addition, a large variety of shopping opportunities and a fine public beach ensure that Calais will always remain a popular choice.

Le Touquet: An attractive seaside resort, Le Touquet, nicknamed “Paris-Plage” (Paris-by-the-Sea), was built in the 1920’s when it was a popular destination for wealthy Parisiens and the British aristocracy. Today, Le Touquet is still very appealing with elegant architecture, vast green areas, interesting shops and a fine sandy beach. Aqualud, the water adventure park by the beach, adds to Le Touquet’s many attractions.

Location: 800 m from the town centre and 50 m from the beach.

Capacity: 162 Rooms for pupils: Mostly 2 beds; shower & WC shared by every 2 rooms.

LE TOUQUET

Hotel Résidence Hippotel Description: Large, modern hotel set in spacious grounds in residential/forest area.

Location: 1 km from town, 2 kms from the beach.

Capacity: 300 Rooms for pupils: 4 to 6 beds; all with shower and WC.

Facilities: Library, games room, pool, table-football, bar, TV, WiFi access.

Meetings rooms (supplement payable).

Facilities: Reception/games area with pool table and table football. Free internet access. Municipal play area 5 minutes walk from hotel.

POPULAR ATTRACTIONS

TRAVEL NOTES & PRICES

• Boulogne Old Town • Nausicaa Sea Life Centre • Becasuc Sweet Factory • Saint Omer •L a Coupole – History Centre & 3D Planetarium • St Joseph Village • Montreuil-sur-Mer – medieval town • Chocolaterie de Beussent • Boulangerie Le Fournil •E scargot Mon Ami Snail Farm – Wierre Effroy •L es Escargots du Bocage Snail Farm – Airon-St-Vaast • Arc International – Glassware & Factory Tours • Agincourt – Medieval History Centre • Aqualud Water Park • Biscuit Factory

Minimum length of tour: 3 days / 2 nights Full Board Staff free 1:8 Channel Crossing: Dover – Calais by ferry or Folkestone – Calais by shuttle Approximate journey time from Calais: Calais Plage 10 mins; Le Touquet 1¼ hrs Prices from: Éthic Étapes Centre Européen de Séjour £195 per pupil (40-47 paying) £210 per pupil (32-39 paying) £235 per pupil (24-31 paying) Additional nights £80 per pupil Hotel Résidence Hippotel £210 per pupil (40-47 paying) £225 per pupil (32-39 paying) £250 per pupil (24-31 paying) Additional nights £85 per pupil Packed lunches included

For more information or a quotation call 01785 224420

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FRANCE NORMANDY An area of great historical importance together with fascinating towns, charming villages, picturesque harbours and sandy beaches – an extremely popular choice for school groups.

ACCOMMODATION CENTRES 01 Dieppe Domaine les Roches 02 Espins La Grange d’Espins 03 St Fraimbault Gîte de Bellevue 04 Bernières-sur-Mer La Closerie des Djinns 05 St. Aubin du Perron Château du Perron 06 Asnelles-sur-Mer Les Tourelles 07 Merville-Franceville Bon Séjour

ACCOMMODATION 01

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Le Mont St Michel

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POPULAR ATTRACTIONS WORLD WAR II VISITS: • The Landing Museum and 360 Cinema, Airborne Museum, Sainte-Mere-Eglise.

• Battle of Normandy Memorial Museum Caen Memorial Centre.

• Pegasus Memorial Museum, Ranville, Omaha Beach Memorial Museum.

• Overlord Museum, Omaha Beach.

HISTORICAL SITES: • Claude Monet’s House & Gardens – Giverny, Le Mont St Michel.

• Famous tapestry in Bayeux, William the Conqueror’s Castle – Falaise.

• Abbaye-aux-Hommes and Abbaye-auxDames – Caen.

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INTERESTING TOWNS AND CITIES: •D ieppe: Attractive and lively port with Cité de la Mer Museum.

•B agnoles-de-l’Orne: beautiful lakeside resort.

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•R ouen: Historic city with magnificent cathedral, one-handed clock, Joan of Arc museum and tourist train.

•H onfleur: Picturesque harbour.

FUN AND PLEASURE VISITS: • Toffee, chocolate & biscuit manufacturers • Choice of cheese farms, Choice of Calvados producers.

• W ater Parks at Thury-Harcourt and Flers, Festyland Amusement Park.

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TRAVEL NOTES & PRICES 01 SEINE MARITIME – Dieppe Domaine les Roches Description: Impressive building set in own grounds.

Location: 5 mins walk from the centre of Dieppe. Capacity: 72 Rooms for pupils: 2 to 4 beds; all with washbasin, shower and WC. Facilities: Activity room with TV/DVD and CD player, classroom allocated to each group, table-tennis, volley-ball, badminton.

02 CALVADOS – Espins La Grange d’Espins Description: Former 16th century priory set in extensive grounds.

Location: Small rural village, 5 kms from Thury Harcourt, 20 kms from Caen.

Capacity: Grand Gîte: 40 persons in rooms of 2-4 beds; most with shower, some with WC, ample shared facilities. Small Gîte (adjoins Grand Gîte): 8 persons in rooms of 2-3 beds with shared facilities. New Gîte: 30 persons in superior rooms of 4-6 beds with private bathroom.

Facilities: Football pitch and volleyball court, meeting room.

03 ORNE – St Fraimbault Gîte de Bellevue Description: Renovated and converted old village school. Single school occupancy.

Location: Traditional rural village, 13 kms from the medieval town of Domfront.

Capacity: 50, Rooms for pupils: 2-5 beds; all with washbasin, shower and WC. Facilities: Extensive grounds with football pitch and basketball court. Meeting room. TV, CD, DVD and video player. Boules pitch in village.

Optional Activities at extra charge: Cookery demonstration with student participation; French language course, crêpe-making, town quiz with prizes (pre-booking essential).

04 CALVADOS – Bernières-sur-Mer La Closerie des Djinns Description: Attractive centre in convenient location Location: Private grounds in village centre, short walk from beach. Capacity: 100 Rooms for pupils: 4-5 beds; All with washbasin, shower and WC. Facilities: Meeting/relaxation room, TV room, table-tennis, volley-ball, boules, disco (on request).

05 LA MANCHE – St. Aubin du Perron Château du Perron Description: Delightful 19th century Château set in 100 acre parkland area. Single school occupancy. Location: Near Coutances. Capacity: 52 Rooms for pupils: 3 to 8 beds; many rooms with bath/shower and WC. Facilities: 3 reception rooms, TV, Video, karaoke, table football, pool. Football pitch and volleyball area. Indoor treasure hunts and discos can be arranged on request.

06 CALVADOS – Asnelles-sur-Mer Les Tourelles Description: Three attractive chalet-type buildings in the gardens of Les Tourelles Manor House with direct access to the beach.

Location: In the small village of Asnelles-sur-Mer, 2 kms from Arromanches and ideally situated for visits to D-Day landing beaches. Capacity: 165 Rooms for pupils: 2-4 beds; All with washbasin, shower and WC. Facilities: Meeting rooms. Large relaxation room. Dining room with views of Mulberry harbour. Free WiFi, outdoor games area. Disco (on request, supplement payable).

Heated outdoor swimming pool (pre-booking essential, supplement payable for lifeguard).

07 CALVADOS – Merville-Franceville Bon Séjour Description: Superb centre with direct access to the beach.

Location: Near to Cabourg. Capacity: 230 Rooms for pupils: Mostly 4 beds; all with washbasin, shower, WC & TV. Facilities: Meeting rooms, leisure and games areas, pool table, table football, beach games, table-tennis, entertainment every evening, Free WiFi for teachers. Mini golf and tennis (small charge). Heated outdoor swimming pool (pre-booking essential, supplement payable for lifeguard).

Minimum length of tour: 3 days / 2 nights Full Board Staff free 1:8 Channel Crossing: Dover – Calais by ferry or Folkestone – Calais by shuttle Approximate journey time from Calais: Dieppe 3 hrs Prices from: Domaine les Roches 01 £200 per pupil (40-47 paying) £215 per pupil (32-39 paying) £240 per pupil (24-31 paying) Additional nights £80 per pupil Packed lunches included Minimum length of tour: 3 days / 2 nights Half Board Staff free 1:8 Channel Crossing: Brittany ferry crossings: Portsmouth – Caen or Cherbourg Approximate journey time from Caen: Espins ¾ hr; Bernières-sur-Mer ¾ hr; St Fraimbault 2 hrs; St Aubin du Perron 2 hrs; Asnelles-sur-Mer ¾ hr; Merville-Franceville ½ hr Approximate journey time from Cherbourg: Espins 2½ hrs; Bernières-surMer 2¼ hrs; St Fraimbault 3 hrs; St. Aubin du Perron 1¼ hrs; Asnelles-sur-Mer 2 hrs; Merville-Franceville 2½ hrs Prices From: La Grange d’Espins* 02 £195 per pupil (40-44 paying) £210 per pupil (32-39 paying) £240 per pupil (24-31 paying) Additional nights £70 per pupil Gîte de Bellevue* 03 £200 per pupil (40-44 paying) £215 per pupil (32-39 paying) £245 per pupil (24-31 paying) Additional nights £70 per pupil La Closerie des Djinns* 04 £200 per pupil (40-44 paying) £225 per pupil (32-39 paying) £255 per pupil (24-31 paying) Additional nights £75 per pupil Château du Perron* 05 £215 per pupil (40-44 paying) £230 per pupil (32-39 paying) £265 per pupil (24-31 paying) Additional nights £80 per pupil Les Tourelles and Bon Séjour* 06 & 07 £225 per pupil (40-44 paying) £245 per pupil (32-39 paying) £275 per pupil (24-31 paying) Additional nights £85 per pupil *Packed lunches available at extra charge Maximum length of stay: 5 days / 4 nights

For more information or a quotation call 01785 224420

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FRANCE THE LOIRE VALLEY

Chateau de Chaumont-Sur-Loir

Renowned for its châteaux, regal symbols of a bygone era, the lush valley of the Loire is rich in both history and architecture.

ACCOMMODATION

ROMORANTIN

ANGERS

Description: Modern, well equipped centre in convenient location.

Description: Youth centre in an area of exceptional beauty.

Location: In the town of Romorantin, capital of the Sologne region.

Location: 5 minutes from town of Angers, near the Lac de Maine.

Capacity: 166

Capacity: 155

Rooms for pupils: 2 to 5 beds; all with washbasin, shower and WC.

Rooms for pupils: 2 to 5 beds; all with shower and washbasin, some with WC.

Facilities: Well-equipped meeting rooms/ classrooms. Recreation room with internet access, table-football, billiards and bar.

Lounge with TV and internet access.

Ample space outdoors for football, basketball, volleyball, boules and tabletennis. Attractive patio area. Evening entertainment (on request) – karaoke, dance party (supplement payable).

Facilities: Relaxation room, TV/DVD lounge, internet access, games room, meeting rooms (supplement payable), table-football, billiards, table-tennis, tennis, basketball, football pitch, volleyball court, small golf course, disco on request (supplement payable), swimming in lake (lifeguards May to September), windsurfing on lake (supplement payable).

Terra Botanica

Éthic Étapes Jean Monnet

Éthic Étapes Lac de Maine

TRAVEL NOTES & PRICES Minimum length of tour: 4 days / 3 nights Half Board Staff free 1:8 Channel Crossing: Dover – Calais by ferry Folkestone – Calais by shuttle Approximate journey time from Calais: Romantin 7½ hrs; Angers 8 hrs

POPULAR ATTRACTIONS • Angers – Ancient capital of Anjou

• Parc Leonardo Da Vinci

• Terra Botanica, Anjou – Experience great plant adventure

• Troglodyte Village of Rochemeiner

• Saumur – Fairytale Chateau, Mushroom Museum & Sparkling Wine Cellars

• Troglodyte zoo de Doue • Aquarium du val de Loire

• Sparkling Wine Caves – Monmousseau • Blois, Royal Chateau & House of Magic • Chateau Royal de Chambord

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• Abbaye de Fontevraud • Chocolat Vauche & Bigot Patissier Chocolatier • Futuroscope Theme Park near Poitiers

Prices from: Éthic Étapes Jean Monnet* £220 per pupil (40-47 paying) £240 per pupil (32-39 paying) £270 per pupil (24-31 paying) Additional nights £65 per pupil Éthic Étapes Lac de Maine* £235 per pupil (40-47 paying) £255 per pupil (32-39 paying) £285 per pupil (24-31 paying) Additional nights £70 per pupil Packed lunches available at extra charge.

FRANCE FUTUROSCOPE With more than 40 million visitors since it opened, Futuroscope is one of the best-known and best-loved theme parks in France.

It is the ideal place where pupils can learn whilst having fun…

In a 60 hectares area, they can discover 25 unique experiences they won’t find anywhere else…The spectacular theatres inside Futuroscope are gigantic sculptures and their futuristic lines blend in smoothly with the surrounding landscape…. Make 2017, a year of unique educational experiences, and also amazing shows for your group!

2 DAYS IN THE PARK PACKAGE

Highlights include: The Time Machine – An incredible journey back in time with the Raving Rabbids!

Hubble Mission – This 3D adventure propels young audiences out to the Hubble Space Telescope to join the crew of the space shuttle Atlantis on a high-stakes repair mission.

Aerobar – The Aerobar lifts twelve lucky guests 115 foot in the air with drink (and snack) in hand to have 12 minutes of spectacular views over the Park. An utterly breathtaking experience!

Arthur 4D – Shrink and become a Minimoy, climb onto your flying ladybuggy and join Arthur in a hair-raising race around the fairy-tale world of the Minimoys. This attraction received the 2011 THEA award for ‘Outstanding Achievement’!

ACCOMMODATION

HOTEL DU PARC POITIERS

HOTEL JULES VERNE POITIERS

HOTEL DU FUTUROSCOPE

Location: 8 minutes walk from Futuroscope.

Location: 8 minutes walk from Futuroscope.

Capacity: 669

Capacity: 425

Location: Footbridge straight to Futuroscope Theme Park.

Rooms for pupils: Mostly 5 beds; all with shower/WC and TV.

Rooms for pupils: 3-4 beds; all with shower/WC and TV.

Facilities: Foyer with drinks/snack machines.

Games and pool table at Les Pirates.

Facilities: Free WiFi, pool table and gift shop.

Description: Friendly, 1-star hotel.

Meals: Continental breakfast and evening meals (all-you-caneat buffet) are taken at the nearby Les Pirates restaurant. Lunch on the first day of your visit is taken at a cafeteria or fast-food restaurant in Futuroscope.

Description: Comfortable, 2-star hotel.

Meals: Continental breakfast and evening meals (all-you-caneat buffet) are taken at the nearby Les Pirates restaurant. Lunch on the first day of your visit is taken at a cafeteria or fast-food restaurant in Futuroscope.

Description: Fully renovated, 1 star.

Capacity: 700 Rooms for pupils: Rooms for 1 to 5, some with bunk beds. Shower / WC and TV. Facilities: Free WiFi, snack area in Reception Lobby.

TRAVEL NOTES & PRICES Minimum length of tour: 4 days / 3 nights Half Board Staff free 1:8 plus lunch on the first day of your visit at a cafeteria in Futuroscope Channel Crossing: Dover – Calais by ferry or Folkestone – Calais by shuttle Approximate journey time from Calais: 8½ hrs A guide will be allocated to your group on the first day of your visit.

Free discovery packs on various subjects available for group leaders on request. Alternatively, during part of your second day, you may wish to choose one of the following optional excursions: Guided walking tour of Poitiers, the “town of 100 bells” with a rich architectural heritage.

La Vallée des Singes (Monkey Valley), over 350 free-roaming monkeys.

Les Géants du Ciel (Giants of the Sky), birds from around the world.

A visit to the Abbaye de Fontevraud, the largest monastic city in France.

Prices from: Hotel du Parc & Hotel du Futuroscope £295 per pupil (40-47 paying) £315 per pupil (32-39 paying) £345 per pupil (24-31 paying) Hotel Jules Verne £305 per pupil (40-47 paying) £325 per pupil (32-39 paying) £360 per pupil (24-31 paying) Packed lunches on subsequent days available at extra charge. Optional excursions are not included in the above prices.

For more information or a quotation call 01785 224420

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FRANCE PARIS Lively, elegant and sophisticated, Paris is an outstanding destination for school groups.

ACCOMMODATION

The perfect choice for art, culture, fashion and of course, pure enjoyment. ÉTHIC ÉTAPES EUGÈNE HÉNAFF

ÉTHIC ÉTAPES CIS LE BOIS DU LYS

Location: in the centre of Aubervilliers, within walking distance from the Cité des Sciences and Stade de France.

Location: Dammerie-les-Lys, 50 kms south-east of Paris, near to Fontainebleau.

Capacity: 194

Rooms for pupils: 2-4 beds; all with shower and WC.

Description: Purpose-built youth centre, close to Paris.

Rooms for pupils: 2-4 beds; all with shower and WC. Facilities: Meeting rooms with audiovisual equipment (supplement payable).

WiFi access (supplement payable).

Occasional video, disco and indoor games evenings. Private disco evenings (supplement payable, pre-booking essential). Outdoor table-tennis. Heated swimming pool nearby (small charge).

Description: Popular international youth centre in a woodland park.

Capacity: 160

Facilities: Bar area with table-football, pool table and TV. Meeting rooms (supplement payable). Football pitch, basketball, volleyball and tennis court.

Outdoor swimming pool (June to September, subject to availability).

Free disco evenings may be arranged.

Free WiFi access.

POPULAR ATTRACTIONS • Eiffel Tower

• Musee Carnavalet

• Arc de Triomphe

• Musee JacquemartAndre Grevin Waxworks Museum Centre Georges Pompidou

• C athedral of Notre Dame • Sacre-Coeur Basilica

Musée du Louvre

• The Montparnasse Tower Montmarte Chamos-Elysees Place du Tertre • Place de la Concorde

• Les Etoiles des Rex, Art Deco Cinema Bateaux Parisiens Seine Boat Trips Aquaboulevard

• Place des Vosges

• Stade de France

• Musee du Louvre

• Football Stadium

• Musee Picasso

• Air & Space Museum, Le Bourget Parc de Thoiry Wildlife Park

• Musee d’Orsay

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• Cite des Sciences et de I’Industrie

• Chateau de Breteuil, take a trip through history & fantasy • Choco-Story, Gourmet Chocolate Museum • Parc Asterix* • Disneyland® Paris*

TICKETS CAN BE PURCHASED THROUGH DRAGONS INTERNATIONAL

FRANCE PARIS ACCOMMODATION

ÉTHIC ÉTAPES RÉSIDENCE INTERNATIONALE DE PARIS

Description: Attractive, spacious and modern accommodation offering an exceptional welcome to school groups.

Ample coach parking.

Location: In a quiet side street in the east of Paris, close to the Cité des Sciences.

Capacity: 297 Rooms for pupils: 2-4 beds; all with shower and WC, TV and telephone.

Facilities: TV lounge. Well-equipped meeting rooms (supplement payable).

WiFi access (small charge). Within ½ km from this centre, there are facilities to play football, basketball, volleyball and tennis.

FIAP JEAN MONNET

Description: Well-equipped centre, conveniently located.

Location: Paris centre, near Latin quarter.

Capacity: 500 beds (200 rooms) Rooms for pupils: 2 to 7 beds; all with shower, WC and telephone.

Facilities: TV lounges, internet room.

Meeting rooms with audio-visual equipment (supplement payable).

Exclusive disco for Fiap guests on some evenings. Bar with garden terrace. Tabletennis.

TRAVEL NOTES & PRICES Minimum length of tour: 3 days / 2 nights Half Board Staff free 1:8 Channel Crossing: Dover – Calais by ferry Folkestone – Calais by shuttle

Sacré- Coeur Basilica

Approximate journey time from Calais: Aubervilliers 4 hrs; Dammerie-les-Lys 5 hrs; Paris 4½ hrs Prices from: Éthic Étapes Eugène Hénaff*, Éthic Étapes CIS Le Bois du Lys* £200 per pupil (40-47 paying) £210 per pupil (32-39 paying) £245 per pupil (24-31 paying) Additional nights £75 per pupil

Éthic Étapes Résidence Internationale de Paris* £200 per pupil (40-47 paying) £220 per pupil (32-39 paying) £250 per pupil (24-31 paying) Additional nights £80 per pupil Fiap Jean Monnet* £220 per pupil (40-47 paying) £235 per pupil (32-39 paying) £260 per pupil (24-31 paying) Additional nights £85 per pupil Packed lunches available at extra charge.

For more information or a quotation call 01785 224420

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FRANCE DISNEYLAND® PARIS Disneyland® Paris

A magical dream destination

Imagine a land where the wonderful world of Disney comes alive.

Imagine a Disneyland® Park, where make believe is real. And Walt Disney Studios® Park, where the magic of Disney meets the magic of cinema.

DISNEYLAND® PARK

Dream with your eyes open.

In a magical kingdom not so far away, classic Disney heroes and heroines live once upon a time in fairytales that are, happily never ending.

Disney® has developed a website to make school trips to Disneyland® Paris a truly educational experience! www.disneylandparis4schools.com

Welcome to the storybook world of Disneyland Park.

Where enchantment lives.

WALT DISNEY STUDIOS® PARK Welcome to the Walt Disney Studios® Park…Where it’s Lights! Camera! 360° Magic! Everywhere! All the time!

All images © Disney

Also available Disney Enchanted Christmas Package

Step through the Studios Gates and let your imagination soar. Time to immerse yourself in the never-ending, always fascinating world of movies, animation and television. Four Zones. One single focus: Entertainment!

ACCOMMODATION

TRAVEL NOTES & PRICES Minimum length of tour: 3 days / 2 nights Half Board Staff free 1:8 Channel Crossing: Dover – Calais by ferry Folkestone – Calais by shuttle Approximate journey time: From Calais: 4½ hrs Prices from: £225 per pupil (40-47 paying) £240 per pupil (32-39 paying) £265 per pupil (24-31 paying) Additional nights £85 per pupil

KYRIAD HOTEL at Disneyland® Paris

Description: 3-star hotel with attractive architectural style.

Location: 8 minutes drive to the Disney® Parks. Free Shuttle Bus at regular intervals.

Capacity: 1000 Rooms for pupils: 2 to 4 beds; all with shower/bath and WC, air-conditioning; TV, telephone, free wireless internet connection and hairdryer.

Facilities: Lounge area, TV corner, Disney® Shop. Meeting rooms and video games corner (supplement payable).

Meals: Decorated in the style of the local region, “Le Marché Gourmand” restaurant offers a hot buffet breakfast and tasty buffet dinner.

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Packed lunches available at extra charge.

The above prices do not include entrance charges.

Tickets for Disneyland Park® and Walt Disney Studios® Park can be purchased through us, including one-day hopper tickets which allow entrance to both Disney® Parks.

Optional extras on request: Packed lunches, meal coupons and tickets for Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show with Mickey and Friends.

FRANCE PARC ASTÉRIX fun, laughter, and adventure! Unique shows bringing together skilled actors, technical prowess and humour, not forgetting what sets us apart, the Gallic characters at the heart of the village and our incredible dolphins with tricks to amaze all the family. All of this is put together in themed worlds packed with Gallic humour, transporting visitors right to the heart of the comic book.

PARC ASTÉRIX THE MOST GALLIC OF THEME PARKS

The only remaining place in France where the true “Gallic spirit” prevails. Here, humour, daring and fun set the tempo.

WELCOME TO PARC ASTERIX!

Right in the heart of the forest and only about 30 kilometres from Paris, Parc Astérix offers high quality entertainment for all the family, a tried and tested formula since 1989 by thousands of indomitable visitors looking for thrills, fun and adventure.

Parc Astérix: an explosive mix!

36 original attractions full of adrenaline,

ACCOMMODATION HÔTEL DES TROIS HIBOUX

Description: Nestling in the heart of the forest right on the edge of Parc Astérix, this comfortable 3-star hotel welcomes your school group to a rejuvenating and unique experience.

Location: Your forest hideaway has direct and exclusive access to Parc Astérix by means of a pleasant short walk.

Capacity: 400 Rooms: 4 beds (2 twins, 2 bunk beds).

All with shower/bath/WC and TV. Facilities: Cosy lounge area, pool table and library. Large outdoor terrace. Free WiFi throughout the hotel.

Meals: Breakfast (buffet) and dinner are taken in the hotel restaurant.

General Excursions: Depending on your location and itinerary, we may be able to incorporate a variety of interesting optional excursions on your travel days.

All images © Parc Asterix

From Prehistoric times to the 19th century, taking in the Roman Empire, Ancient Greece and Egypt, Parc Astérix offers a fun, audacious panorama of history.

Astérix remains your guide during this incredible adventure during which he invites visitors to meet in turn a wide range of heroes who each made their mark on history: Roman legionaries, the great Caesar, Zeus, Icarus and the Hydra of Lerne, Marcel the intrepid painter in love with the Mona Lisa, not forgetting the Gauls and the Egyptians.

Without losing their sense of humour or ability to laugh at themselves, visitors experience here what they cannot find elsewhere: the true essence of Gallic spirit.

So come along to Parc Astérix to share this culture and to experience tailormade adventures!

2 DAYS IN THE PARK PACKAGE

TRAVEL NOTES & PRICES Minimum length of tour: 3 days / 2 nights Half Board Staff free 1:8 plus lunch on the first day of your visit at a cafeteria in Futuroscope Channel Crossing: Dover – Calais by ferry Folkestone – Calais by shuttle Approximate journey time: From Calais: 3½ hrs Prices from: £295 per pupil (40-47 paying) £310 per pupil (32-39 paying) £335 per pupil (24-31 paying) Prices include packed lunch on your day in the park.

Additional packed lunches available at extra charge.

These prices are currently valid for school groups arriving between Sunday and Wednesday.

2016 opening dates and times to be confirmed.

Extended Day Trips: For those groups with less time available, we offer extended day trips involving overnight travel in both directions.

For more information or a quotation call 01785 224420

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AN OPPORTUNITY TO BRING HISTORY ALIVE IN AN INTERESTING AND MEMORABLE VISIT. We offer a flexible programme visiting France or Belgium or a longer stay with a combination of visits to both countries. A customised itinerary will be prepared to suit your group’s own particular requirements and any necessary advance bookings will be made.

THE SOMME

Historial de la Grande Guerre: In 1916, one of the most terrible battles of the First World War took place in the Somme. It was undoubtedly the conflict in which the largest number of armies of different nationalities participated. The Historial gives an insight into the vastness of this war, its effect on the world and its political, social and cultural dimensions. This trilingual museum compares the experiences of the major participants in the war.

Delville Wood and the South African Memorial and Museum at Longueval: The capture of Delville Wood, essential to any further advance eastwards, was assigned to the South Africans. Their experience was an unimaginable nightmare; only 143 men from the 3,200 who launched the attack came out of the wood unscathed. The memorial is set in a park of oak trees grown from acorns from South Africa.

Thiepval, the British Memorial to the Missing: In 1932 the British Government decided to build the great Somme memorial.

This imposing monument, 45 metres high and visible for many miles around, commemorates more than 73,367 British and South African men who have no known grave.

Ulster Tower: The Ulster Tower is a memorial to the men of the 36th Ulster Division. It marks the site against which the men of Ulster advanced on 1st July 1916.

Newfoundland Park: The national war memorial of Newfoundland was built here in memory of their volunteer army. From a vantage point on top of the Caribou mound, the entire battlefield is visible and the trench system can be understood.

Lochnagar Crater at La Boisselle: This immense crater, measuring 100 metres across and 30 metres deep, is the remains of a series of explosions that occurred on 1st July 1916.

Accrington Pals Memorial, Serre: This Memorial was erected in 1980 in the Sheffield Memorial Park, just behind one of the trenches from where the Accrington Pals advanced on 1st July 1916. It is made from Accrington brick and the ruined wall symbolises the ruined village of Serre.

Albert: Well-known in the nineteenth century as an industrial centre with a rich historial past. Albert had 7,343 inhabitants in 1914. The town was subjected to ceaseless bombardment and by January 1919, the total number of inhabitants was 120. In the former shelters beneath the centre of Albert the “Somme 1916” museum presents realistic scenes from the trench warfare of 1916.

Vimy Ridge: Although not part of the Somme proper, the victory at Vimy Ridge was a turning point for the Allied forces. The Vimy Memorial is a monument to all Canadians who died or risked their lives for freedom and peace in the First World War.

CHRISTMAS MARKETS

Visit the entertaining Christmas market of Lille, the largest in Northern France.

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© G.WAIT OT Bayeux

FRANCE BATTLEFIELDS OF WORLD WAR I

GENERAL EXCURSIONS Depending on your location and itinerary, these may be incorporated into your programme on your travel days: • Arras with its monumental squares, cathedral • St. Vaast Abbey, Town Hall • Belfry and underground passages including Wellington Quarry Cité Nature, cultural and scientific centre • La Coupole, History Centre and 3D Planetarium • Boulogne, old town and port

TRAVEL NOTES & PRICES

ACCOMMODATION

Minimum length of tour: 3 days / 2 nights Half Board Staff free 1:8 Channel Crossing: Dover – Calais by ferry Folkestone – Calais by shuttle Approximate journey time: From Calais: 1½ hrs Prices from: £245 per pupil (40-47 paying) £260 per pupil (32-39 paying) £285 per pupil (24-31 paying) Additional nights £100 per pupil Packed lunches available at extra charge.

Spend an extra day in the Somme area or explore further afield in the Ypres Salient.

New Optional Extra: A fully-experienced Battlefield Guide to accompany your tour.

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS ARRAS Description: Modern 3-star hotel with excellent facilities.

Location: Arras Centre, 5 minutes walk from the main squares.

Capacity: 149 Rooms for pupils: 2-3 beds; all with shower and WC, hairdryer, flat-screen TV, telephone and internet access.

Facilities: Large reception/ lounge area with flat screen TV and pool table (small charge).

Attractive terrace bar. Meeting rooms with overhead projector and flip charts. Free WiFi. Breakfast: Continental buffet in hotel Evening Meal: Typical French food in restaurant “Le Carnot” or “Le Passe-Temps” opposite hotel.

New Optional Extra: a fully-experienced Battlefield Guide to accompany your tour

BELGIUM BATTLEFIELDS OF WORLD WAR I TRAVEL NOTES & PRICES Prices from: £225 per pupil (40-47 paying) £235 per pupil (32-39 paying) £255 per pupil (24-31 paying) Additional nights £85 per pupil

© Amanda Slater

Minimum length of tour: 3 days / 2 nights Half Board Staff free 1:8

YPRES SALIENT

In Flanders Fields Museum, Ypres: The renovated In Flanders Fields Museum, located in the Cloth Hall, confronts the visitor with the consequences of the Great War. The In Flanders Fields Museum has always emphasized the personal stories in the larger story of a conflict that co-defined the history of the world. Besides hundreds of authentic objects and images that are presented in an innovative and experienceorientated layout, there is attention for the story of the ‘ordinary people’ in the new museum too.

To increase the experience even more, every visitor receives a personal ‘poppy’ bracelet on arrival. The microchip in the bracelet automatically sets the language choice and enables the visitor to discover 4 personal stories throughout the permanent exhibition. The new scenography of the museum gives a lot of attention to the current landscape as one of the last tangible witnesses of the war history.

The Menin Gate: The famous British war memorial of the First World War and by far the most important edifice in Ypres to the British visitor. Designed by Sir Reginald Blomfield, the names of 54,896 missing soldiers are engraved on its walls. Every evening since 1928, the Last Post has been sounded beneath its imposing arches. Your group may wish to stay for the Last Post in which case a packed lunch would be provided instead of dinner on that day.

Canadian Forces Memorial at St. Julien: This was erected in remembrance of the 3,000 dead soldiers of the first Canadian Division who fell during the counter-attack after the German gas attack of April 1915.

The Platoon Experience – the Road to Passchendaele: A unique programme where your

Channel Crossing: Dover – Calais or Dunkirk by ferry Folkestone – Calais by shuttle

Packed lunches available at extra charge.

Approximate journey time: From Calais: 1½ hrs. From Dunkirk: 1 hr.

Spend an extra day in the Ypres Salient area or explore further afield in the Somme.

group puts itself in the position of an Australian platoon in 1917 following the bloody track to Tyne Cot Cemetery. Your day includes a guided tour in the Memorial Museum Passchendaele 1917; a hot “Tommy Tucker” meal; personal stories to experience; battlefield walk in authentic kit; guided tour at Tyne Cot Cemetery and educational support by one or two guides.

Passchendaele and Tyne Cot: The village of Passchendaele gave its name to one of the most gruelling battles of the Great War. Many of those who died in 1916 fighting to capture the village are buried in the nearby Tyne Cot cemetery, the largest Commonwealth war cemetery in the world. In the Memorial Museum 1917, completely renovated in 2013, visitors are given an overview of the five battles of Ypres by means of authentic material and artefacts. A new wing, entirely dedicated to the Battle of Paschendaele, focuses on the contributions of the differeS0nt Commonwealth nations involved in the battle with an outdoor trench experience and remembrance gallery.

Essex Farm Cemetery: On the bank of the canal you can see the impressive memorial column of the 49th West Riding Division. During the war, Essex Farm was used as an Advanced Dressing Station, an important aid station of the Field Ambulances. It was here, in one of the bomb-proof dug-outs, that the Canadian doctor, John McCrae, wrote the famous poem “In Flanders Fields the poppies blow”.

German Cemetery at Langemark: The four figures of the Munich sculptor, Emil Krieger, add an interesting touch to this rather foreboding cemetery of 44,061 German soldiers.

Sanctuary Wood Museum: This museum contains a wealth of war relics. A piece of authentic war

landscape was conserved here with trenches, craters, vaulted passages and weapons.

Talbot House, Poperinge: In the heart of the bustling town of Poperinge, the Army chaplains, Philip Clayton (known as Tubby) and Neville Talbot opened an “Every Man’s Club” on 11th December 1915, where soldiers of all ranks could come to regain physical and mental strength. The inspired way in which Tubby ran his ‘home from home’ turned Talbot House, or ‘Toc H’, into the bestknown soldiers’ club of the British army. An audio-visual staging of a Concert Party in the newly-restored Concert Hall entertains today’s visitors and they can also see the hop store, bath-house and garden.

NOT INCLUDED IN YOUR TOUR PRICE: ADMISSION CHARGES WHERE APPLICABLE. THE SERVICES OF A BATTLEFIELDS TOUR GUIDE IF REQUIRED.

CHRISTMAS MARKETS

Visit the atmospheric Christmas market at Ostend with its open air ice rink.

ACCOMMODATION

PEACE VILLAGE, YPRES

Description: Very recent purpose-built hostel with 40 small ‘houses’.

Location: Messines, 10 minutes from the Ypres Market Square or the Menin Gate.

Rooms for pupils: 24 bedded duplex bedrooms (some exceptions have 6 beds) with separate bathroom & WC, living room with comfy seats and desk.

Facilities: Evening activities on site, free WiFi, bar, conference room, two football fields, netball, camp fire, ping-pong, pool table, table football, board games, library, live sports, karaoke, basketball, disco (payable – pre booking essential).

GENERAL EXCURSIONS Depending on your location and itinerary, these may be incorporated into your programme on your travel days: • Medieval City of Bruges • Bellewaerde Adventure Theme Park in Ypres • The Battle of Dunkirk and Operation Dynamo, World War II Museum in Dunkirk • The Ultimate Shopping Centre at the mouth of the Channel Tunnel

For more information or a quotation call 01785 224420

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BELGIUM BRUSSELS BRUSSELS

An excellent choice for school groups of all ages. Belgium is packed with history, culture and charm. Historic medieval cities, busy harbours, clean sandy beaches and charming seaside resorts are just some of the many reasons for visiting this delightful, friendly country.

The capital of the EU is a sophisticated city, rich in history, with a lively, friendly atmosphere.

ACCOMMODATION

Brussels town hall

Any visit should start with a stroll around the Grand Place, a magnificent cobbled square with its flamboyant architecture, lively cafés, chocolate shops and, of course, its cheeky Mannekin Pis statue.

In the Royal Quarter, marvel at the Cathedral of Saints Michel and Gudule and the delightful Parc de Bruxelles which is overlooked by the Belgian Parliament.

At the southern end of the park lies the impressive Royal Palace. For the most amazing view, a trip to the top of the Atomium is not to be missed.

SLEEP WELL STAR Part of the Comic Strip Trail

Description: “Star” facilities for Dragons’ groups in modern, comfortable youth hostel.

CHRISTMAS MARKETS

Location: Central location, approximately 10 minutes walk from the Grand Place.

Visit the Winter Wonderland of Brussels Christmas market.

Capacity: 90 Rooms for Pupils: 2-3 beds; all with bath or shower, WC, TV and fridge.

POPULAR ATTRACTIONS • The Grand-Place and Brussels Town Hall • Cathedral of Saints Michel and Gudule • Royal Palace • Royal Museums of Fine Art • Belgium Comic Strip Centre • Moof, Museum of Original Figurines, dedicated to the heroes of comic stri • Sablon Antiques Market • Autoworld Car Museum • Musical Instruments Museum • Museum of Natural Sciences • National Bank of Belgium Museum • The European Parliament and fantastic new visitors centre, The Parlamentarium • Magritte Museum Bozar, a Victor Horta building and centre for culture and art • Planète Chocolat Brussels on Stage, Discover the Legend of Brussels in a Sound and Light Show • The Atomium, unique symbol of Brussels CITIES AND MAJOR ATTRACTIONS In and around Antwerp

In and around Ypres

• Historic City Centre

• Cloth Hall and Belfry

• Rubens’ House • Cathedral of Our Lady

• In Flanders Fields Museum with new Knowledge Centre and Café

• MAS – Museum on the Water Diamond Museum

• Town Hall • St Martin’s Cathedral

• Antwerp Zoo

• St George’s Memorial Church

• Aquatopia, Sealife Centre

• Menin Gate • Bellewaerde Park, Adventure Theme Park

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Facilities: TV room with internet access, pool table and table football, Zinneke bar with dance floor and karaoke. Pleasant outdoor terrace. Meeting rooms with TV, video, CD player and flip charts (supplement payable).

TRAVEL NOTES & PRICES Minimum length of tour: 3 days / 2 nights Half Board Staff free 1:8 Channel Crossing: Dover – Calais or Dunkirk by ferry Folkestone – Calais by shuttle Approximate journey time: From Calais: 1½ hrs. From Dunkirk: 1 hr.

Prices from: £205 per pupil (40-47 paying) £220 per pupil (32-39 paying) £245 per pupil (24-31 paying) Additional nights £75 per pupil Packed lunches available at extra charge.

BELGIUM OSTEND OSTEND

Belgium’s premier sea resort has much to offer. With miles of wide, sandy beaches and an attractive, sea-front promenade, Ostend is a very popular choice for school groups.

Magnificently laid out parks and lively pedestrian shopping streets add to its attractions.

Culture lovers will enjoy the prestigious Provincial Museum of Modern Art and the Museum of Fine Arts. The impressively restored Fort Napoleon is the most important monument from Napoleonic times in Flanders. For hands-on activities, discover Earth Explorer, an adventurous journey through the four natural forces of earth, air, fire and water. Ostend is ideally located for excursions to most of the cities and attractions of major interest in Belgium.

CHRISTMAS MARKETS

Visit the atmospheric Christmas market at Ostend with its open air ice rink.

ACCOMMODATION

HOTEL ALBERT II

Description: Stylish 2-star hotel offering an excellent service.

Location: Ostend town centre, 150 m from the beach.

POPULAR ATTRACTIONS • Ostend City Museum, recounting the history of Ostend using the latest techniques Leopold Park and its Famous Floral Clock • Museum of Modern Art • Museum of Fine Arts • Royal Galleries • Three-master Sailing Ship Mercator • Amandine Interactive Fishing Museum • Equestrian Statue of Leopold II • Seamen’s Memorial • North Sea Aquarium • Fort Napoleon • HMS Vindictive, now partially restored • Earth Explorer Domain Raversijde, comprising the Atlantic Wall Museum, Prince Charles’ Memorial and Walraversijde, with reconstructed medieval fishermens’ homes CITIES AND MAJOR ATTRACTIONS In and around Ghent

In and around Bruges

• St Bavo’s Cathedral • St Nicholas’ Church • The Belfry • The Graslei and Guildhouses • St Michael’s Bridge • Castle of The Counts • Museum of Contemporary Ar • Museum of Fine Arts • Museum For Industrial Archaeology and Textiles • Design Museum Ghent • Illuseum, The World of Optical Illusions

The Belfry • Gothic City Hall • Basilica of The Holy Blood • Church of Our Lady • Historium, experience the magic of the Middle Ages in Bruges • The Lace Centre • Museum of Folklore • Groeninge Museum of Fine Art • Gruuthuse Museum of Applied Art • Diamond Museum • Beguinage • “Choco-Story”, Chocolate Museum • Boudewijnpark and Dolfinarium, Theme Park at Saint Michiels • Seafront Maritime Theme Park at Zeebrugge

Capacity: 160 Rooms for Pupils: 2-6 beds; all with bath or shower and WC, TV and telephone.

Facilities: Quizzes may be arranged in advance. Disco on request (supplement payable, pre-booking essential).

TRAVEL NOTES & PRICES Minimum length of tour: 3 days / 2 nights Half Board Staff free 1:8 Channel Crossing: Dover – Calais or Dunkirk by ferry Folkestone – Calais by shuttle Approximate journey time: From Calais: 1½ hrs. From Dunkirk: 1 hr.

Prices from: £215 per pupil (40-47 paying) £230 per pupil (32-39 paying) £250 per pupil (24-31 paying) Additional nights £80 per pupil Packed lunches available at extra charge.

For more information or a quotation call 01785 224420

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GERMANY RHINE VALLEY INTRODUCTION EUROPE’S NOBLEST RIVER, WINDING ITS WAY THROUGH A VARIETY OF LANDSCAPES, IS A GREAT FAVOURITE WITH SCHOOL GROUPS.

The beauty and rich history of this region never fail to astound.

Fairy-tale castles, medieval villages and theme parks are all easily accessible from our wide choice of accommodation centres ACCOMMODATION CENTRES 01 Köln Deutz Jugendherberge 02 Köln Riehl Jugendherberge 03 Bonn Jugendherberge 04 Bad Honnef Jugendherberge 05 Festung Ehrenbreitstein Koblenz Jugendherberge 06 Boppard Hotel Spiegel Garten 07 Boppard Hotel Bergschlösschen 08 Rüdesheim Carat Hotel Rheingau

POPULAR ATTRACTIONS Highlights include: Köln: cosmopolitan city, famous for its magnificent Gothic cathedral Bonn: university city and the birthplace of Ludwig van Beethoven Königswinter: take a ride on the Drachenfels funicular railway and visit Schloss Drachenburg Linz: historic old town with its famous castle Maria Laach Abbey: a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture Remagen Bridge Peace Museum: the only bridge to be left intact at the end of the Second World War Koblenz: Stolzenfels Castle, Deutsches Eck and Ehrenbreitstein fortress Castle Marksburg: the only hilltop castle on the Rhine never to have been destroyed Burg Maus: now a falconry centre offering eagle and falcon flying displays Lorelei Rock: steeped in legend and folklore Rheinfels Castle: St. Goar, the most extensive castle ruins on the Rhine Bingen: with its unusual Mäuseturm, a stone tower on a small island in the Rhine

spinning Talocan, a suspended top-spin and the only ride of its kind in Europe to date.

In Berlin, Oscar Koslowski is calling all mousers with a taste for adventure! MAUS AU CHOCOLAT! Experience this worldexclusive interactive ride – a riot of fun and adventure in glorious 3D!

PHANTASIALAND, situated in Brühl near Cologne in the heart of the Rhineland, is one of Europe’s top entertainment parks.

Take your students on a day-journey round the globe from China, Mexico and Africa to Old Berlin.

One of the top attractions is the inverted rollercoaster Black Mamba, which hurtles through ravines and waterfalls with twists, screws, loop the loops and hair-raising drops. Another highlight is the head-

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© Phantasialand

Six themed areas with worldwide unique attractions and internationally multi-award- winning shows promise to be great fun and an educational experience for all your pupils.

Come and visit PHANTASIALAND this winter for an experience to remember!

Lose yourself in a Winter Wonderland at Phantasialand. As well as the all-weather rides and attractions, you can look forward to a whole host of winter specials including a huge ice rink where you can practice your pirouettes.

Magical moments: You know that winter has arrived at Phantasialand when the entire park is lit up by thousands and thousands of lights, with the ice glittering and sparkling under the bright street lamps. It’s a truly unforgettable sight.

The magic continues on stage with DIE MAGISCHE ROSE, a winter story which awakes the goodness in people and warms the heart. At the end of the show, there is a fantastic firework display.

Phantasialand reserves the right to make alterations.

Food & drink deals are available.

GERMANY RHINE VALLEY TOWNS Boppard offers a host of attractions to its visitors, with its splendid river promenade, well preserved Roman and medieval town fortifications, the historic noble houses, churches, former monastries and an unusual museum. Not to be missed is the chairlift ride to the “Vierseenblick”, the view of the four lakes or the train ride with the Hunsrück Mountain Railway.

RÜDESHEIM-AM-RHEIN

Rüdesheim, the heart of the Rheingau region, is one of the most visited towns in Germany. The quaint Drosselgasse, just six feet wide, is always bustling and lively. A cable car ride to the Niederwald monument and falconry is a real delight. The Winzerexpress, a miniature train, winds through the vineyards on sightseeing tours. Siegfried’s

Mechanical Music Museum, in the historical Brömserhof, houses one of the largest collections of self-playing musical instruments. The rooms and vaults of the 1000 year old Brömserburg castle are home to the Rheingau folk and wine museum and from the top of its tower, the visitor is offered a truly magnificent panorama.

BAD HONNEF

Bad Honnef is a lively town of historic charm, with a variety of old half-timbered houses as well as buildings dating from the Classical period and late 19th century.

It enjoys an enviable location between the Siebengebirge National Park and the Rhine river. The most famous district of Bad Honnef is Rhöndorf, where the former residence of Dr. Konrad Adenauer, the first Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany, is located.

© Mohamed Yahya

BOPPARD

2 DAYS IN THE PARK PACKAGE

CHRISTMAS MARKETS Visit the traditional Christmas market of Rüdesheim-am-Rhein with the largest nativity scene in Europe.

ACCOMMODATION

TRAVEL NOTES & PRICES Minimum length of tour: 4 days / 3 nights Half Board Staff free 1:8

BAD HONNEF Jugendherberge Bad Honnef

Description: Modern, welcoming youth hostel.

Location: On the southern outskirts of Bad Honnef in the Selhof district.

Capacity: 193 Rooms for pupils: 2 to 10 beds; all with shower and WC. Facilities Indoor: Small games room. Meeting rooms, theatre with stage, disco room, bistro (supplements payable).

Outdoor: Spacious grounds for various activities including tabletennis and basketball.

Fun-court with spectators’ stand. Large amphitheatre.

Terrace with sun umbrellas.

BOPPARD Hotel Bergschlösschen

RÜDESHEIM-AMRHEIN Carat Hotel Rheingau

Location: In a scenic, peaceful area, ten minutes walk from Boppard town centre and the river Rhine.

Location: In the historic centre of Rüdesheim-amRhein.

Capacity: 90

Rooms for pupils: 2 to 4 beds; all with shower or bath and WC, TV, telephone.

Description: Attractive family-run hotel with a friendly atmosphere.

Rooms for pupils: 2 to 7 beds; all with shower, WC and TV. Facilities: Leisure room with bar area, large TV/ video screen and CD player, covered outdoor terrace. Disco room on request (supplement payable).

Description: Attractive hotel with excellent amenities.

Capacity: 220

Facilities: Sun terrace, relaxation room, indoor swimming pool and sauna.

Channel Crossing: Dover – Calais or Dunkirk by ferry Folkestone – Calais by shuttle Approximate journey time: From Calais: Bad Honnef 6½ hrs; Boppard 7 hrs; Rüdesheim-am-Rhein 8 hrs. From Dunkirk: Bad Honnef 6 hrs; Boppard 6½ hrs; Rüdesheim-am-Rhein 7½ hrs Prices from: Jugendherberge Bad Honnef* and Hotel Spiegel Garten* £220 per pupil (40-47 paying) £240 per pupil (32-39 paying) £275 per pupil (24-31 paying) Additional nights £65 per pupil Hotel Bergschlösschen* £230 per pupil (40-47 paying) £250 per pupil (32-39 paying) £285 per pupil (24-31 paying) Additional nights £70 per pupil Carat Hotel Rheingau* £255 per pupil (40-47 paying) £275 per pupil (32-39 paying) £310 per pupil (24-31 paying) Additional nights £80 per pupil Packed lunches available at extra charge.

For more information or a quotation call 01785 224420

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GERMANY RHINE VALLEY CITIES KÖLN RHINE VALLEY CITIES Köln

A lively, cosmopolitan city, Köln is famous for its magnificent Gothic cathedral which took more than 600 years to complete.

Climb the south tower for a splendid view of the bustling city centre with its Romanesque churches and the impressive Römisch-Germanisches Museum. A visit to the Chocolate Museum with its freshlystocked chocolate fountain, production line and shop is not to be missed. Gain an insight into the history and ever-changing face of sport at the neighbouring German Sports and Olympic Museum. Enjoy a breath-taking view of the City from the top of the Panorama Köln Triangle, with free admission for under 13’s.

ACCOMMODATION

TRAVEL NOTES & PRICES Minimum length of tour: 4 days / 3 nights Half Board Staff free 1:8 Channel Crossing: Dover – Calais or Dunkirk by ferry Folkestone – Calais by shuttle

KÖLN DEUTZ Jugendherberge

Description: Impressive youth hostel.

Location: Close to the Rhine within easy walking distance of Köln cathedral and old town.

Capacity: 506 Rooms for pupils: 4-6 beds; all with shower and WC Facilities: Large reception, bistro and bar area. TV, games rooms and WiFi/ internet access. Attractive chill-out zone.

Well-equipped meeting rooms and disco room (pre-booking required, supplement payable).

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KÖLN RIEHL Jugendherberge

Description: Completely refurbished welcoming youth hostel.

Location: Directly on the Rhine, surrounded by ample green areas yet only 10 minutes drive from the city centre.

Approximate journey time: From Calais: 6 hrs. From Dunkirk: 5½ hrs.

Prices from: £235 per pupil (40-47 paying) £255 per pupil (32-39 paying) £285 per pupil (24-31 paying) Additional nights £70 per pupil Packed lunches available at extra charge.

Capacity: 508 beds Rooms for pupils: 3 to 4 beds; all with shower and WC Facilities: Bistro with terrace, bar area and coffee bar. TV, games rooms and WiFi/internet access. Well-equipped meeting rooms and disco room (prebooking required, supplement payable).

CHRISTMAS MARKETS Visit the historic markets of Köln.

3 days / 2 nights Half Board Prices start from: £195 per pupil (40-47 paying)

GERMANY RHINE VALLEY CITIES BONN & KOBLENZ RHINE VALLEY CITIES Bonn Old Town

Bonn: Known as the “Gateway to the Romantic Rhine”, Bonn is an attractive and cultural city with an interesting history dating back over 2000 years. The top class museums of Bonn’s “Museum Mile” include the distinctive Art and Exhibition Hall, the House of the History of the Federal Republic of Germany and the Museum of Modern Art. A tour of the Beethoven House, birthplace of Ludwig van Beethoven, the world famous composer, is a must-see for all visitors to this inviting city.

Koblenz Germany’s most beautiful “corner”. This 2000-year old town, situated in the picturesque landscape of the Rhine and Moselle is surrounded by four low mountain ranges. The view from the Ehrenbreitstein fortress high above the Rhine across the river down to “Deutsches Eck” with its re-erected equestrian statue of Emperor William I, is spectacular. An abundance of cultural monuments and historic buildings together with pretty lanes and bustling squares make Koblenz a relaxed and friendly town to visit.

ACCOMMODATION

TRAVEL NOTES & PRICES Minimum length of tour: 4 days / 3 nights Half Board Staff free 1:8 Channel Crossing: Dover – Calais or Dunkirk by ferry Folkestone – Calais by shuttle

BONN Jugendherberge Bonn

Description: Comfortable, friendly youth hostel Location: Bonn-Venusberg on the edge of the Kottenforst Nature Park Capacity: 249 Rooms for pupils: 2-4 beds; all with shower and WC Facilities: TV room, relaxation lounge, games room, table-tennis (indoor and outdoor), large garden terrace. Well equipped meeting rooms (supplement payable).

KOBLENZ Jugendherberge Festung Ehrenbreitstein

Description: Newly-built youth hostel with excellent facilities Location: The hostel is located in the southern part of Ehrenbreitstein fortress, with views of the Rhine and Moselle valleys, the City and the “Deutsches Eck”

Approximate journey time: From Calais: Bonn 6 hrs; Koblenz 6½ hrs. From Dunkirk: Bonn 5½ hrs; Koblenz 6 hrs.

Prices from: £235 per pupil (40-47 paying) £255 per pupil (32-39 paying) £285 per pupil (24-31 paying) Additional nights £70 per pupil Packed lunches available at extra charge.

Capacity: 157 beds Rooms for pupils: Mostly 2-4 beds; all with shower and WC Facilities: Café-bar, bistro, restaurant, snack-area, internet terminal, indoor games and table-tennis. Well equipped relaxation/ meeting rooms of various sizes. Ample space outdoors for games. Barbecue area.

CHRISTMAS MARKETS

Visit the historic markets of Bonn and Koblenz 3 days / 2 nights Half Board Prices start from: £195 per pupil (40-47 paying)

For more information or a quotation call 01785 224420

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GERMANY MOSELLE/EIFEL BITBURG THE GENTLY FLOWING MOSELLE RIVER MEANDERING THROUGH VINE COVERED UNSPOILT NATURE OF THE BEAUTIFUL EIFEL REGION PROVIDE A WIDE VARIETY BITBURG

Porta Nigra © Dennis Jarvis

Bitburg is an attractive town with an idyllic location in the heart of the Eifel region, just 30 minutes drive from the Roman City of Trier.

A range of interesting excursions in the Moselle and Eifel regions as well as the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg are easy to reach from Bitburg. For pure enjoyment in Bitburg itself, choose from “Cascade” the water-world swimming centre or Funpark Eissporthalle offering roller-blading, climbing, hockey, darts, table-tennis and trampolining. Of course, the famous

POPULAR ATTRACTIONS Trier: Roman City

Bitburger Pils is brewed here in Bitburg.

Guided tours of the brewery, one of the biggest in Europe, provide a real insight into the technology involved.

Ring Werk: Motorsport Theme Park Nürburging Backstage Tour Idar: Oberstein – Centre of the German jem & jewellery Industry Saarburg: Old Town & Castle Burg Eltz: castle, near Cochem Eifel region: with its famous Crater Lakes Trier Haup Markt, Trier © Loren Clark

ACCOMMODATION

TRAVEL NOTES & PRICES Rooms for pupils: Mostly 4 beds; bathroom shared by two rooms.

Facilities Indoor: Meeting rooms, bar with TV/CD player, cinema/video room, internet access in reception, pool table, table football and table tennis. Weekly disco and barbecue evenings.

JUGENDHOTEL BITBURG

Description: Modern, purpose-built centre with excellent amenities.

Location: 4 kms to Bitburg centre, 30 minutes drive from Trier.

Capacity: 270

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Facilities Outdoor: Patio area, spacious grounds for various sports activities including table-tennis, football field, beach volleyball and basketball. Prebookable activities with a supplement payable include archery, guided jogging, climbing wall and night hike (all subject to availability and minimum numbers).

Activities within walking distance: Indoor ice rink (winter only); activity park with inline-skating, table football, streetball, basketball and trampolining; bowling alley; go-kart track. Costs for the above can be advised on request.

Minimum length of tour: 4 days / 3 nights Half Board Staff free 1:8 Channel Crossing: Dover – Calais or Dunkirk by ferry Folkestone – Calais by shuttle Approximate journey time: From Calais: 6 hrs. From Dunkirk: 5½ hrs.

Prices from: £230 per pupil (40-47 paying) £250 per pupil (32-39 paying) £280 per pupil (24-31 paying) Additional nights £70 per pupil Packed lunches available at extra charge.

CHRISTMAS MARKETS

Visit the charming Christmas market of Trier with its romantic setting on the medieval Main Market and the Cathedral Square.

GERMANY MOSELLE/EIFEL COCHEM

Cochem CCErik Söderström

Ring°Werk © Nurburgring

Cochem Marketplace

VALLEYS AND PICTURESQUE TOWNS TOGETHER WITH THE OF INTERESTING EXCURSIONS FOR SCHOOL GROUPS.

The attractive wine town of Cochem is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the Moselle area.

Perched high above the town, Cochem’s fairytale Reichsburg Castle is an impressive sight, from which narrow streets with gabled houses, interesting shops and a lively town square can all be easily reached. The Cochem chair-lift takes you to the Pinnerkreuz for panoramic

views of the Moselle valley.

An animal and leisure park is located here. See how mustard is made on a tour of Cochem’s historic mustard mill which produces award-winning mustard specialities to its own recipes.

For fun and relaxation, the water adventure park at the Freizeitzentrum is a perfect choice.

ACCOMMODATION

POPULAR ATTRACTIONS Bernkastel-Kues & Traben-Trabach – Wine towns Moselle River Cruises Monschau: attractive town Phantasialand Theme Park Luxembourg: stylish capital city Vianden: medieval town with Castle

TRAVEL NOTES & PRICES Minimum length of tour: 4 days / 3 nights Half Board Staff free 1:8 Channel Crossing: Dover – Calais or Dunkirk by ferry Folkestone – Calais by shuttle Approximate journey time: From Calais: 7 hrs. From Dunkirk: 6½ hrs.

JUGENDGÄSTEHAUS COCHEM

Description: Attractive, well-equipped youth hostel.

Location: Overlooking the river just over the bridge to the main town centre.

Capacity: 146 Rooms for pupils: 2 to 4 beds, all with shower and WC. Facilities Indoor: Café-bar and bistro with terrace, games room with table-tennis, pool table and table football. Well-equipped relaxation/meeting rooms of various sizes.

Facilities Outdoor: Grassed area for ball games and barbecues, table-tennis.

Prices from: £230 per pupil (40-47 paying) £250 per pupil (32-39 paying) £280 per pupil (24-31 paying) Additional nights £65 per pupil Packed lunches available at extra charge.

CHRISTMAS MARKETS

Visit the quaint Christmas markets in the beautiful Moselle towns of Cochem and Bernkastel-Kues.

For more information or a quotation call 01785 224420

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GERMANY BERLIN BERLINER DOM AT NIGHT, BERLIN

Welcome to the exciting and fascinating city of Berlin.

Here, where East meets West, where cultures and religions from all over the world unite, the European Community has its heart. Experience the past and future of Germany’s reinstated capital.

TRAVEL NOTES & PRICES Minimum length of tour: 6 days / 3 nights Half Board Staff free 1:8 Channel Crossing: Dover – Calais or Dunkirk by ferry Folkestone – Calais by shuttle

Charlottenburg Palace

Approximate journey time: From Calais: 13 hrs.

From Dunkirk: 12½ hrs.

Overnight travel by executive coach.

Meal provision (half board): Evening meal on Day 2 to breakfast on penultimate day. (Lunch on your day of arrival only).

Prices from: £315 per pupil (40-47 paying) £345 per pupil (32-39 paying) £400 per pupil (24-31 paying) Additional nights £80 per pupil Packed lunches available at extra charge.

Extras included in your price: 3 hour guided sightseeing tour of Berlin on your day of arrival.

Brandenburg Gate © Visit Berlin

ACCOMMODATION

POPULAR ATTRACTIONS • Reichstag Parliament Building • Charlottenburg Palace • Olympic Stadium • Kurfürstendamm • Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church • Kadewe • Tiergarten • Brandenburg Gate • Checkpoint Charlie • Gendarmenmarkt • Berlin Wall Memorial • East Side Gallery • Topography of Terror • Unter den Linden • Pergamon Museum • Bode-Museum

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• TV Tower at Alexanderplatz Nikolaiviertel • Berlin Cathedral • Sony Centre at Potsdamer Platz • Jewish Quarter • Jewish Museum • Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe • German Museum of Technology • Aquadom and Sea Life Centre • The Story of Berlin, Multi-Media Exhibition • Marienfelde Refugee Centre Museum • Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp • Potsdam – Schloss Sanssouci, Schloss • Cecilienhof, Neues Palais and Filmpark Babelsberg

COMFORT HOTEL LICHTENBERG

Description: Comfortable hotel with excellent facilities.

Location: North-east outer city centre.

Capacity: 338 Rooms for pupils: Rooms have 2 to 3 beds; apartments have a maximum of 6 beds; all with bath or shower and WC, TV, hairdryer, telephone.

Facilities: Bowling alley, billiards, tennis (available at small charge).

Other accommodation centres available.

Contact us for details and prices.

GERMANY THE BLACK FOREST THE BLACK FOREST

This highland region offers a wealth of natural beauty, with forests, streams and lakes all steeped in legend, a healthy climate and charming towns.

Schonach Cuckoo Clock

A wide range of cultural sights and interesting activities are available to appeal to school groups of all ages.

POPULAR ATTRACTIONS • Europe Park • Freiburg – University City • Strasbourg – Medieval Old City with Gothic Cathedral • Triberg – Highest Waterfall in Germany

Experience fantastic moments in Germany’s biggest theme park!

With more than 100 breathtaking rides and spectacular shows, you will enjoy an unforgettable trip!

There is a great deal more besides to discover in Germany’s biggest theme park! 13 different European themed areas displaying typical national architecture, vegetation and culture are spread across the 90-hectare site – great surroundings to get to know Europe in one day! In Greece, guests can take off

on a thrilling ride between sky and sea on the “Poseidon” water roller coaster.

The French section has an exceptional adrenalin kick in store, with the “Silver Star”, which reaches speeds of up to 130 kms per hour. Moreover, what better way to cool down than the aquatic “Fjord Rafting” ride in Scandinavia.

Anyone who prefers to take things at a slower pace can look forward to the excellent show programme including an ice-skating show, variety performances, knights’ contests and a host of unforgettable moments.

ACCOMMODATION

• Baden-Baden – Spa Town • Picturesque Schiltach • Furtwangen – Clock Museum • Schonach – With World’s 1st Giant Cuckoo Clock • Railway trip from Blumberg to Weizen – Sauschwanzlebahn • Vogtbauernhof Livin Museum • World of Living – Infotainment Park • National Motor & National Railway Museum – Mulhouse • Steinwasen Wildlife & Adventure Park • Monkey Mountain – Kintzheim

TRAVEL NOTES & PRICES HOTEL REBSTOCK

Description: Attractive hotel in peaceful surroundings with a friendly atmosphere.

Location: In the pleasant town of Rust, famous for Europa-Park. Rust is conveniently located for visits to most of the attractions of the Black Forest and Alsace areas.

Capacity: 120 Rooms for pupils: 2 to 6 beds; all with shower/WC and TV. Facilities: Meeting room and games room.

Accommodation is also available at Hotel/Gästehaus Anker in Kippenheim.

Minimum length of tour: 4 days / 3 nights Half Board Staff free 1:8 Channel Crossing: Dover – Calais or Dunkirk by ferry Folkestone – Calais by shuttle Approximate journey time: From Calais: 9 hrs. From Dunkirk: 8½ hrs.

Prices from: £265 per pupil (40-47 paying) £285 per pupil (32-39 paying) £320 per pupil (24-31 paying) Additional nights £80 per pupil Packed lunches available at extra charge.

For more information or a quotation call 01785 224420

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GERMANY CHRISTMAS MARKETS 2016 VISIT THE MAGICAL GERMAN CHRISTMAS MARKETS

Our most popular Christmas markets are Aachen and Köln but we also offer trips to Koblenz, Bonn, Cochem, Trier, Rüdesheim and many more destinations. If you need more time to explore the Christmas markets, why not take a Short Break instead?

TYPICAL ITINERARY FOR YOUR EXTENDED DAY TRIP Travel by 49 seater executive coach with reclining seats, seatbelts, DVD player and toilet.

DAY 1: Evening – Executive coach collects your group and drives to Folkestone/Dover DAY 2: Early morning – Channel crossing by shuttle or ferry.

Mid morning – Arrival at Aachen or Köln. Approximately 10 hours free time to enjoy the Christmas Markets.

Evening – Coach departs.

DAY 3: Early morning – return Channel crossing.

Mid/late morning – arrive back at your destination SUPPLEMENTS MAY BE APPLICABLE: on certain days/ peak periods if you choose to travel one way by ferry and one way by shuttle if you are more than 250 kms from Folkestone/Dover if you require a 53 seater executive coach

AACHEN

AACHEN TOURIST SERVICE E.V. 18.11.2016 – 23.12.016 Open daily from 1100 – 2100 hrs (22.11.16 – 1800 – 2100 hrs only) Closed 22 November 2016 Approximate journey time: From Calais: 5 hrs inc. breakfast stop on route From Dunkirk: 4½ hrs inc. breakfast stop on route Prices from: £2,600 per coach.

Enjoy the Christmas celebrations in the historic heart of Aachen. The festive array of stalls around the Cathedral, Town Hall and Old Town

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offer an impressive range of crafts and gifts. decorations.

The local speciality you must try is Aachen Printen, a type of tasty gingerbread which is unique to Aachen. Your coach will drop you off and collect you from the Bendplatz parking area from which you can walk to the well-signposted Christmas market in about 20 minutes.

Optional Activities: guided walking tour of Aachen’s historic old town in English.

Duration: approximately 1½ hours.

Price: 105€ per group of 25 persons or less.

Aachen’s historic old town is perfect to stroll around. You will be led though narrow lanes and historic squares and be inspired

by Aachen’s history of nearly 2000 years.

KÖLN

EVENTLEUTE GMBH www.harbour-christmas-market.com 23.11.2016 – 23.12.2016 Open daily from 1100 – 2100 hrs (some markets have extended opening hours) Closed 22 November 2016 Approximate journey time: From Calais: 6 hrs inc. breakfast stop on route From Dunkirk: 5½ hrs inc. breakfast stop on route Prices from: £2,650 per coach.

Delight in the magical atmosphere of the Christmas markets of Köln.

Your coach will drop you off and collect you from Komodienstrasse near to the Cathedral, within easy walking distance to many of the main markets.

Christmas market at Köln Cathedral: Set against the backdrop of the Gothic Cathedral, you will find a fascinating array of high-quality arts & crafts with many gift ideas, delicious food and drinks as well as more than one hundred stage events under the resplendent starlit tent.

Köln Old Town “Home of the Elves: This rustic and welcoming Christmas market lies in the heart of the old town. Traditional artesian stalls, lovingly decorated huts, pretty lanes, and hidden Heinzelmännchen (legendary gnomes who are said to have done the work of the people of Köln at night) give this market its particular charm.

Angels’ market – Christmas at Neumarkt: Visitors will be enchanted by this lovingly decorated Christmas market with its charming chalets and highquality products located in the heart of the Cathedral city.

Fairytale Christmas market at Rudolfplatz: Just a ten minute walk from Neumarkt, the Fairytale Christmas market is situated at Rudolfplatz. The theme of the sixty huts at the Hahnentorburg is the Brothers Grimm fairy tales.

Therefore, this Christmas market particularly delights younger visitors.

Köln Harbour Christmas market at the Chocolate Museum: In a picturesque setting overlooking the Rhine, the Köln Harbour

Christmas market at the Chocolate Museum will bring the gateway to the Rheinauhafen to life and give festive Köln a maritime flavour.

Christmas market at Stadtgarten: This Christmas market combines several different characteristics: dynamically artful, attractively different, ingeniously stylish and yet bound to nature and tradition.

Optional Activities: Guided walking tour of Köln in English.

Duration: approximately 1 hour.

Price: 100€ per group of 25 persons or less.

Take a journey through the centuries and explore the area around the Cathedral, town hall and historic old town. See the Romanesque church of Gross St. Martin, the Roman Dionysos Mosaic and the Jewish Ritual Bath.

Two-Hour Advent Boat Cruise on MS RheinEnergie or MS RheinFantasie. Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 1530 hrs from 26th November to 20th December.

School group price: 8.50€ per pupil; Teachers free ratio 1:10 See, feel and taste chocolate at the unique Chocolate Museum.

Open: Tuesday-Friday 1000-1800 hrs and Saturday-Sunday 11001900 hrs.

School group price: 6.50€ per pupil Teachers free ratio 1:8 (non-guided) Visit the Deutsches Sport & Olympia Museum for an insight into the history and ever-changing face of sport.

Open: Monday-Friday 1000-1800 hrs and Saturday-Sunday 11001900 hrs.

School group price: 3€ per pupil; one teacher in group free: additional teachers 6€ each (non-guided).

Prices for optional activities may be subject to change. Please contact us for confirmation on prices, availability and pre-booking (if applicable).

CREDIT VISIT ENGLAND ANDY TRYNER - VE13567

An ideal opportunity to practise language skills and experience this fascinating German tradition.

CUSTOMISED TRAVEL AND TOURS EXCHANGE VISITS AND TOURS Dragons International has the expertise and flexibility to arrange coach travel for your school exchange visits at competitive prices.

We can arrange coach transfers to and from your chosen destination or, alternatively, you may wish the coach and driver to remain with your group for the duration of your stay.

Town twinning partnerships and special interest tours also provide an excellent opportunity to improve language skills, experience the culture of another country and make lasting friendships.

Velmead Junior School

From initial enquiry to final destination, we offer a personal, professional and reliable service which gives real value for money.

BOOKING WITH DRAGONS IS EASY! REQUEST A QUOTATION

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU BOOK?

In order to assist us in preparing your quotation, we would appreciate the following information from you:

• Confirmation letter and invoice (30% deposit is required on receipt of the confirmation pack with the balance payable one month before departure).

We welcome quotation requests from schools and groups in mainland England and Wales.

• Full contact details.

• Estimated number of passengers.

• Departure and arrival points.

• Preferred method of channel crossing i.e. eurotunnel or ferry.

• Proposed dates of travel.

• Do you need to keep the coach?

A written quotation based on the information you have provided will be sent to you as quickly as possible together with a copy of our terms and conditions and details of our optional travel insurance. Our travel only quotations are based on a coach price as this type of trip is frequently subject to fluctuation in numbers.

On acceptance of our quotation in writing, you will receive our full confirmation pack including:

• Personalised itinerary with dates, times and travel arrangements • Checklist, advice, safety information and notes for your group • Relevant forms for completion.

• Follow up service after your return.

JUST A FEW SIMPLE STEPS AND YOU’RE ALMOST THERE!

We would also be pleased to arrange transport for your exchange partner in France, Germany or Belgium. Please ask them to contact us directly.

For more information or a quotation call 01785 224420

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FRANCE DAY TRIPS From £1,650 for a 49 seater *executive coach

*Includes reclining seats, seat-belts, DVD player and toilet

Courtesy of information france.com

Courtesy of information france.com

Experience the difference of a day trip to France with Dragons International. Our day trips are the perfect introduction to the culture, history and language of your chosen destination. Suitable for all ages of pupils, we will tailor-make your day to suit your group’s requirements.

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

EARLY MORNING: Executive coach collects your group and drives to Dover/ Folkestone MID MORNING: Channel crossing by ferry or shuttle LUNCHTIME: Arrival in France FREE TIME TO:

SUPPLEMENTS MAY BE APPLICABLE • On certain days/peak periods

• If you choose to travel one way by ferry and one way by shuttle • If the duration of your day exceeds 20 hours If your chosen destination is further than those listed

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU BOOK

On acceptance of our quotation in writing, you will receive our full confirmation pack including: • Confirmation letter and invoice (Deposit only £400 per coach; Balance due one month before departure)

Explore the towns: Calais – Boulogne – Saint Omer

• If you are more than 250 kms from Dover/Folkestone

• Personalised itinerary with dates, times and travel arrangements

Visit the attractions: Nausicaá, National Sea Centre, La Coupole, History Centre and 3D Planetarium, Agincourt, Medieval History Centre, Saint Joseph Village, Reproduction Artisan Village.

ALTERNATIVE DAY TRIP DESTINATIONS

• Relevant forms for completion

Take a look at the Popular Attractions on Page 5 for additional possibilities

Day trips to alternative destinations such as Dunkirk, Lille, Arras, Ypres and Bruges are also available. We would be pleased to discuss your requirements.

Taste the Difference: Chocolate Factory, Bakery, Sweet Factory

EXTENDED DAY TRIPS

Shop until you drop at: Auchan hypermarket and shopping centre at Calais or Saint-Martin-Boulogne Your detailed itinerary will depend on which options you choose and the time you wish to allocate to each activity.

Coach available for use throughout visit subject to drivers’ hours regulations. Most day trip attractions can be pre-booked through Dragons. You just pay on arrival.

EARLY EVENING: Return channel crossing LATE EVENING: Arrive back at your destination

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We offer extended day trips involving overnight travel in both directions to Disneyland© Paris and Parc Astérix©

• Checklist, advice, safety information and notes for your group • Tourist information on the areas you have chosen to visit • Follow-up service after your return

Saint Omer

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR DAY

BOULOGNE

Boulogne, awarded the title of “Ville d’Art et d’Histoire” has much to offer its visitors.

Perched on a hill, the charming old town with its cobbled streets and ramparts boasts an impressive cathedral, a Town Hall of classical design, a belfry dating from the 12th century and a superb Château Museum. The multi-purpose port of Boulogne with its commercial harbour and yachting marina is also a leading European centre of fish and seafood processing.

Shopping: The main shopping streets in the lower town are the Grand Rue, rue Thiers, rue Victor Hugo and rue Nationale. The old town is good for gifts and restaurants. Freshly caught fish is sold on the quayside, boulevard Gambetta, every day. Market days are Wednesday and Saturday mornings at Place Dalton.

Courtesy of information france.com

Nausicaá: The French National Sea Experience Centre, is devoted to discovering the marine environment and to raising public awareness of the need to live in harmony with the sea.

The Château Museum: Constructed in the 13th century at the same time as the ramparts, this was the first castle to be built without a keep in the history of military architecture. The Museum houses fascinating collections of Egyptian antiquities, antique Greek vases, Eskimo masks, pottery, porcelain, fine and medieval arts.

SAINT-OMER

Saint-Omer, a delightful market town situated on the edge of Flanders and surrounded on three sides by a vast area of farmed marshland, has a rich architectural heritage.

Opposite the famous splendid park, the Cathedral of Notre Dame rises up from its close in the original centre of town. The Hotel Sandelin, the ruins of the Abbey of Saint Bertin and the former Jesuit Colleges all bear witness to an illustrious past. In this lively and pleasant town, you may experience the vivid atmosphere of pedestrian streets or take a picturesque walk around the ramparts.

Shopping: Place Foch, rue de Dunkerque, rue des Clouteries, rue Louis Martel are the main shopping areas in Saint-Omer.

Market day is held on Saturday morning in the Place Foch.

For more information or a quotation call 01785 224420

Courtesy of information france.com

Hotel Sandelin Museum: This mansion house was built in 17761777 as a winter residence for Marie-Josephe Sandelin, countess of Fruges. Three adjoining salons on the ground floor look onto the gardens. These three rooms are listed and protected under the Monuments Historiques initiative. The tour of the house, which focuses on history, fine arts and ceramics, has been extended to 21 exhibition rooms, which bring the museum’s collections to life in a remarkable setting.(s)

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MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR DAY HISTORY CENTRE & 3D PLANETARIUM

THE ENVIRONMENT MARINE WORLD

A DOME OF…

MORE THAN 50 AquARIuMS AND POOLS

72 metres in diameter, 5.5 metres thick, 55,000 tons of reinforced concrete sheltering an underground city consisting of more than 7 kilometres of galleries

35,000 marine, freshwater and land animals

LA COUPOLE AN AMAZING PLACE

NAUSICAÁ NATIONAL SEA CENTRE

1,000 species housed in 4.5 million litres of water Much more than ust an aquarium, Nausicaá is dedicated to the marine world and its links with mankind.

La Coupole, situated 5 km from Saint Omer, is one of the most impressive vestiges of the Second World War in Europe. This immense bunker, built by the Todt Organisation in 19431944, was to be the launch base for V2 rockets aimed at London. After massive bombing by the Allies, La Coupole was abandoned in the summer of 1944 after the Normandy landings.

PLANET NAUSICAÁ • Sink to the bottom of the world’s oceans • Head south in the Atlantic Ocean down the African coast and meet the African penguins.

• Enjoy the thrill of the turbulent Northern Seas.

This impressive military complex has been home for one of the greatest History and Remembrance Centres since 1997. An ultramodern centre based on images and audiovisual techniques, two theatres, films created from rare archives, animated models, more than 10,000 photographs and not forgetting a genuine V2 rocket, the only one on view in France.

• Stopover in the Mediterranean before heading off to the big blue ocean.

• Enjoy the sea life experience live via an interactive TV platform. Here, correspondents from the åçwhole world will share their experience with you.

• Surprise yourself in the submerged forest of the Caymans.

You will visit two very different tours:

• Take part in surprising events including sea lion training and feeding sessions in the lagoon, the mangrove, åçthe touch tank and don’t forget the penguins!

Life under the Occupation: Relive in images the major incidents during the Occupation of Northern France by the German army (19401944) – the invasion, the exodus, the problems of daily life, the resistance of the population and the Liberation.

• Watch a diver cleaning the glass inside the fascinating shark pool See nearly 3,000 multicoloured fish up close in the tropical lagoon.

Stroke the rays in the touch pool.

Rockets, from war to the moon: Discover the programme of the German V1 and V2 secret weapons. Infra-red audio-guided headsets in English enable you to visit the centre at your own pace.

Accompanied by a guide, the tour is punctuated with audio and visual documents explaining how this major international group operates and the secrets of glass-making.

Group Price: Pupils: 3.50€ Teachers free: ratio: 1:8 45 minutes from Calais; 1 hour from Boulogne

CERAMIC MUSEUM, DESVRES

The museum presents 600 items offering a broad overview of more than 300 years of ceramic production in Desvres. The town is famous throughout the world for this beautiful earthenware pottery.

Group Price: Pupils: 4.00 € Pupils aged 8 and under: Free Teachers free: Ratio: 1:10 Note the museum is closed on Mondays Approximate visit: 1 – 2 hours 45 minutes from Calais

Group Price: Pupils up to 18 years: 8.95€ Teachers free: ratio 1:10 Additional Teachers: 15.35€ Themed workshop activities, teaching kits and a picnic room to hire are all available to enhance your visit. Food may be pre-ordered to enjoy at the Tropical Lagoon Village Bar or the Bistrot du Port. Please contact us for details and prices.

3D Planetarium Visit the 3D Planetarium, offering an unforgettable journey into space!

Put on your active 3D glasses and discover the mysteries of the universe. Fed by a rich database of almost 100,000 stars, galaxies and planets and featuring a 360˚ hemispherical screen with a diameter of 15 metres span and a 5.1 surround sound system, the planetarium offers viewers a total immersion in Space and the Sciences. An educational brochure with the description of the films may be downloaded from: www.lacoupole-france.co.uk/education. html

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On entering the factory in Arques, you discover a completely new world, lit by the glimmer of molten glass being transformed into coloured goblets, elegant champagne flutes or smart stemmed glasses.

• Visit the brand new Californian Sea Lions’ reserve and watch the sea lions exercise in their tank from brand new covered terraces.

The Sea has finally landed!

Group Price: Pupils: 4.50€ Teachers free: ratio 1:10 Additional Teachers: 8.50€ Lunch packs available: from 6.50€ each Approximate visit duration: 2 hours

Approximate visit: 2 – 3 hours 30 minutes from Calais; 5 minutes from centre of Boulogne

Nausicaa - © Flament 2013

Group Price: Pupils: 4.50€ Teachers free: ratio 1:10 Additional Teachers: 6.50€ Approximate visit: 1 hour

ARC INTERNATIONAL GLASS & CRYSTAL MANUFACTURERS

OUR DAY TRIP QUOTATIONS DO NOT INCLUDE ENTRANCE CHARGES TO ATTRACTIONS. ENTRANCE CHARGES MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. MOST DAY TRIP ATTRACTIONS CAN BE PRE-BOOKED THROUGH DRAGONS. YOU JUST PAY ON ARRIVAL.

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR DAY CHOCOLATERIE DE BEUSSENT, BEUSSENT

BOULANGERIE LE FOURNIL, WIERRE EFFROY

CONFISERIE BECASUC, BOULOGNE

This is paradise for chocolate lovers. From the initial plantation of the cocoa trees to the coating of the final product, all will be revealed. Owners, Bruno and Alain Derick travel to the Rain Forest each year to personally select the cocoa beans from their own plantations. Your tour will end with a chocolate tasting and an opportunity to visit the factory shop to take some of your favourites home with you.

Take a tour around the modern part of the bakery to see croissants in production and then conclude your visit in the original part of the bakery to watch a baker at his work using a traditional wood oven.

Watch carefully as the ingredients are heated in a copper pan, allowed to cool on a special table and fed through a machine to create their unique fruit shapes.

You may even be asked to assist!

In addition to 16 different fruitflavoured sweets; nougat, truffles, marzipan, lollipops and fruit jellies are also made here. Their shop will be hard to resist.

Discover the mysteries of chocolate making.

Enjoy a visit to a family-owned bakery.

Approximate visit: 1 hour Group Price: Pupils: 2.80€ Teachers free ratio: 1:25 Additional Teachers: 2.80€

AGINCOURT, MEDIEVAL HISTORY CENTRE

France was in turmoil in the 15th century. On 25th October 1415, on fields near the village of Agincourt, a vastly outnumbered English army, led by Henry V, crushed a French army under the command of Constable d’Albret. Relive this historical event of the Middle Ages using the latest in audio-visual technology.

Approximate visit: 1 hour Group Price A: Pupils: 3.50€ Teachers free: ratio 1:10 Additional teachers: 5€ Group Price B: Guided battlefield tour by coach: 10€ total (½ hour) 75 minutes from Calais or Boulogne

Approximate visit: 1 hour Group Price: Pupils: 4€ Teachers: Free of charge 35 mins from Calais; 25 mins from Boulogne

1 hour from Calais; 40 mins from Boulogne

Open daily (except on Tuesdays between November and March)

He will be happy to respond to your questions. Depending on availability, you may take away samples of delicious croissants and pains aux chocolats.

SAINT JOSEPH VILLAGE, REPRODUCTION ARTISAN VILLAGE

Step back in time at “Saint Joseph Village” situated in Guines, just 6 kms from Calais.

This faithful reproduction of an old “artisan” village includes a primary school, blacksmith’s workshop, sawmill, clockmaker’s shop, tavern, chapel, windmill, museum of farm machinery, fun fair and grocer’s shop.

Enjoy the authentic atmosphere of village life between 1900 and 1950.

An ideal visit for younger groups.

Approximate visit: 1 hour Group Price: Pupils: 5.00€ Teachers: Free Lunches available: from 7.00€ per pupil, Adults 10€ 20 minutes from Calais; 40 minutes from Boulogne

Take a trip down memory lane at a traditional sweet factory. Boulogne.

Approximate visit: 1 hour Group Price: Pupils: 3.50€ Teachers: Free of charge 35 mins from Calais; 5 mins from centre of Boulogne

MUSÉE DE L’ABEILLE, D’OPALE – BEE MUSEUM

Learn about the wonders of bees by an experienced bee-keeper at this fantastic bee museum. You will be taken on a guided tour, where you will learn about the hives, how the bees produce honey and the role of a bee-keeper.

You will be led through gardens, be shown interesting documentaries and have the opportunity to taste some honey or learn how they use beeswax in candle making.

ESCARGOTS MON AMI, WIERRE EFFROY

Learn about the famous French delicacy at a snail farm. Perfect for primary groups!

On this little farm, you will learn all about the life of a snail whilst also taking part in practical activities.

The guides will encourage your students to ask questions in French. Perfect to combine with a visit to Boulangerie le Fournil, which is just 10 minutes away.

Approximate visit: 1 hour 30 Group Price: Pupils: 3€ Teachers: Free of charge 35 minutes from Calais; 25 minutes from Boulogne

LES ESCARGOTS DU BOCAGE, SAINT AIRON VAAST

Les Escargots du Bocage offers a guided tour of the breeding park followed by a slideshow and tasting session.

Approximate visit: 1 hour 30 Group Price: Pupils: 4,80€ Teachers: Free of charge Located 30 mins south of Boulogne

Open daily (except on Tuesdays between November and March) Approximate visit: 2 hours Group Price A: Pupils: 2,80€ Teachers: Free of charge 1 hour 30 from Calais

OUR DAY TRIP QUOTATIONS DO NOT INCLUDE ENTRANCE CHARGES TO ATTRACTIONS. ENTRANCE CHARGES MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. MOST DAY TRIP ATTRACTIONS CAN BE PRE-BOOKED THROUGH DRAGONS. YOU JUST PAY ON ARRIVAL.

For more information or a quotation call 01785 224420

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Your Road To Europe

Paton Drive, Tollgate Park Stafford ST16 3EF Tel: 01785 224420 Fax: 01785 214217 Email: info@dragonsinternational.co.uk Web: www.dragonsinternational.co.uk Dragons International is a division of Leons Travel Ltd. Company registered in England No. 03459625 VAT Reg No. 785 3971 75