TRAVEL STOP
Your local independent travel agency
Happy New Year to all and I do hope that the festive season has been enjoyed. As usual, the travel industry faced countless challenges in 2019, some predicted and some not, but I do not want to dwell on any of the negative aspects that arose. I have some very positive items of news from last year, many in respect of new staff. 2018 had seen the retirement of three members of my team and this left a ‘hole’ in three out of four of my offices. However, as they say, as one door closes another opens and I have been delighted to welcome to the team new and experienced staff. The only change regarding staffing that is predicted for 2020 is in respect of the Elmswell shop. I am delighted to share with you that Hannah Moore, the Manager, will be taking some time out on maternity leave as her first baby is due in March. We all wish her and Kelvin well with their forthcoming sleepless nights ……………………….! In July I was delighted to receive the Travel Agent of the Year (East Of England) award, on behalf of the Claydon office, at the Agent Achievement Awards in London. The company has achieved many awards, and continues to do so, due to the strength of my team and for this, I am very grateful. It always makes me happy when their hard work and efforts are recognised.
Service is not expensive, it is invaluable …… Whenever I travel myself and I receive ‘over and above’ service, I endeavour to deliver the same in my offices. I remember once being told the following: ’You may not remember who said it, or even what was said, but you will always remember the way it made you feel’. During a recent trip to China, I experienced some of the best service I have ever received …... and also some of the worst! But at least this allows me to recognise what it is we want to achieve as well as what we want to avoid at all costs. Travel Stop’s aim is to ensure that we deliver the best experience possible from the first meeting, call or email, right the way through to your return from holiday and beyond. That is my personal pledge to each and every one of our customers. We work with so very many tour operators, but especially enjoy our relationships with the niche market and specialist travel providers. A lot of these may initially look the same as many of the mass market holiday companies but, in reality, are quite simply poles apart offering quite unique holiday experiences. Whist chatting to one representative who visited our offices recently, it was emphasised that there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ holiday and no off-the-shelf itinerary that they feature. What they guarantee is that a customer will get the best possible advice at the planning stage, unique experiences that won’t be found anywhere else, first-hand hotel recommendations and, ultimately, a holiday that is remarkable in the eyes of the traveller. This mirrors exactly what we want to ensure we deliver. We want to demonstrate how your ideas could come to life, based around starting points and conversations, and planning an individual holiday that will excite. Therefore when we work with operators who have the same aspirations as ourselves, we believe we will get it right, ultimately for you as our customer. Once again this year you will read about many of our staff’s travel experiences. I am a true believer that selling holidays is being passionate about what we sell and knowing what we are talking about. Therefore each time an opportunity is presented, or an invitation is received, I encourage it’s acceptance. As a result, most of the team have taken advantage of some fantastic travel experiences which I hope that, not only will you enjoy reading about, but you will use their experiences to help with your own plans. In frantic and fast moving times, it is all too easy to overlook common courtesies. I genuinely appreciate your custom and you may rest assured that I will never take for granted, or indeed become complacent. At Travel Stop I am aware that you have a choice and am grateful that you give us your business. Thank you for your continued custom and loyalty and I wish you all a happy, healthy and prosperous 2020. With very best wishes
Bridget This year Travel Stop is offering the chance to win £100 by solving our riddle: “Angler pursues his pastime in the altogether” You will find the 3-word answer in one of our pages. Email: enquiries@travel-stop.co.uk with your answer by 31st January 2020
Lima, Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca, Cuzco & Train to Machu Picchu Only ÂŁ3,995 per person
(last few places still available - ask for terms and conditions)
HONEYMILES
For weddings and honeymoons abroad
Hundreds of couples have used our free ‘Honeymiles’ service, the Hundreds of couples haveyour usedwedding our freepresent ‘Honeymiles’ service, the easy way for to solve dilemma. Hundreds ofyou couples have used our free ‘Honeymiles’ service, the easy way for you to solve your wedding present dilemma. What are Honeymiles? easy way forandyou solvetoyour wedding present dilemma. The perfect way for friends familyto to contribute your honeymoon as their wedding gift to you. What are Honeymiles? areway Honeymiles? TheWhat perfect fordo? friends and family to contribute to your honeymoon as their wedding gift to you. What should you Thejust perfect way forsee friends and we family contribute to your honeymoon as their wedding gift to you. Firstly, come and us and willto find and book you the perfect honeymoon or wedding abroad. What should you do? What Firstly, justshould come you and do? see us and we will find and book you the perfect honeymoon or wedding abroad. What next? Firstly, just come and see us and we will find and book you the perfect honeymoon or wedding abroad. Inform your friends and family that you would like their What next? to you to be a contribution to your honeymoon. wedding Whatgift next? Inform your friends family thatofyou would liketotheir We will provide youand with anfamily insert choice include Inform your friends and that your you would like their wedding gift to you to be a contribution to to your withwedding your wedding invitations. gift to you to be a contribution yourhoneymoon. honeymoon. We We will will provide youyou withwith an an insert of of your choice provide insert your choicetotoinclude include with your wedding invitations. Howwith do your friends and family donate to your Honeymoon? wedding invitations. They contact us and quote your name and file number to How do friends andand family donate toto your Honeymoon? donate. How do friends family donate your Honeymoon? TheyThey contact us and quote your name and filefilenumber contact us and quote your name and numbertoto donate. donate. What if friends and family want to contribute to a more individual gift? What if can friends andand want to to contribute more What if friends family want contribute toa ato more Guests donate tofamily any special experience for to you individual gift? individual gift? enjoy. Previous examples have been a sunset cruise, a Guests can donate tobeach, any special experience youtoto Guests can donate special experience forforyou candle-lit dinner on to theany a balloon ride and swimming Previous examples have been a sunsetcruise, cruise,aa enjoy. Previous examples have been a sunset withenjoy. dolphins. candle-lit dinner beach, a balloon rideand andswimming swimming candle-lit dinner on on thethe beach, a balloon ride with dolphins. with dolphins. What if my friends and family are really generous? Any amount received over the total of your trip will be What if my friends family really generous? What if my andand family areare really generous? refunded to friends you.received Any amount over the total of your tripwill willbe be Any amount received over the total of your trip refunded to you. refunded How will to weyou. know who has contributed? We How will provide with a list ofcontributed? all the friends and family who made a contribution. will weyou know who has HowWe will we knowyou who has contributed? will provide with a list of all the friends and family who made a contribution. We will provide you with a list of all the friends and family who made a contribution.
And voila - a honeymoon paid for by your friends and family. Much better than a toaster. And voila - a honeymoon paid for by your friends and family. Much better than a toaster. And voila - a honeymoon paid for by your friends and family. Much better than a toaster.
“TRIP” “TRIP” “TRIP”
Recommend a anew you with withpoints pointswhen whenthey theybook. book. Recommend newcustomer customerand andwe we will will reward reward you Recommend a new customer “Points and we will reward you with points when they book. mean prizes!” “Points mean prizes!” “Points mean prizes!” We havealready alreadygiven given ourcustomers customers wine, champagne, We have our champagne,afternoon afternoonteas, teas, airport loungepasses, passes, theatre tickets wine, off holiday. airport theatre tickets and money money offtheir their holiday. teas, We havelounge already given our customers champagne, afternoon airport lounge passes, theatre tickets and money off their holiday.
THE CAPE TOWN AREA OF SOUTH AFRICA
By Hannah Moore
I recently visited South Africa for the first time, mainly visiting the Cape Town area. Our first stop on this trip was Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, which Africa is approximately two mainly hours visiting from Cape I recently visited South for the first time, the Town, offers variety of experiences Cape near TownGansbaai. area. Our The first Reserve stop on this tripa was Grootbos Private for their guests including, riding,two forest walks, botanical Nature Reserve, which ishorseback approximately hours from Cape 4x4 tours, watching and more. has two villas, Town, nearwhale Gansbaai. The Reserve offersGrootbos a variety of experiences completely private from each other,riding, and both located away for their guests including, horseback forestare walks, botanical from Forest andwatching Garden lodges. Although you are dine 4x4 the tours, whale and more. Grootbos has able two to villas, atcompletely either lodge, a chef is provided in the villas. private from each other, and both are located away from the Forest and Garden lodges. Although you are able to dine Day 2 We werea taken our guide, at either lodge, chef isby provided in theJoanita, villas. on a coastal safari, followed by a 4x4 drive around the reserve learning about the Day 2 We wereand taken by our guide, Joanita, on a coastal safari, different flowers fauna which are used to infuse their local gin followed by a 4x4 drive around theOn reserve learning about the and the toiletries used in the rooms. the way back to the villa, different flowers fauna which are all used infuse localherbs gin we stopped off atand their farm to see of to their owntheir grown andvegetables. the toiletriesFor used in the On the back cellar, to the which villa, and dinner werooms. were taken to way the wine stopped off at their farm to see all which of theirthey owntrygrown iswe a beautiful private dining experience, to giveherbs to all and vegetables. For dinner we their were stay. taken They to the also wine cellar, guests at least once during offer awhich wine is a beautifulwhere private dining experience, which they to give wines to all experience, the guests are taught about thetry different guests at leastand once during their stay. They also offer from a wine and a tasting, where they can make a selection the experience, guests are taught about the different wines cellar, which where is full ofthe exclusive bottles of wine. and a tasting, and where they can make a selection from the cellar, which is full of exclusive bottles of wine.
Day 3 We made our way to Cape Town. En-route we made a stop atDay Hermanus and our Boulders to see En-route the penguins, which was 3 We made way toBeach Cape Town. we made a stop aatpersonal highlight for me. Beach On arrival in the Cape Town, we checked Hermanus and Boulders to see penguins, which was into Cloud 9highlight for thefor night, small boutique in the a personal me. aOn arrival in Capehotel Town,located we checked downtown hasnight, a rooftop bar boutique with pool,hotel and amazing into Cloudarea. 9 forItthe a small located inviews the over Table area. Mountain. evening, we dined at the Chef’sviews Table downtown It hasThat a rooftop bar with pool, and amazing atover TheTable Mount Nelson That Hotelevening, which iswe 121 years old Chef’s and has 198 Mountain. dined at the Table rooms seven buildings, is is known as theold ‘pink This at Theover Mount Nelson Hotel and which 121 years andhotel’. has 198 hotel is over moreseven like abuildings, resort, with spa andhotel’. gym.This The rooms and ais shop, knownpool, as the ‘pink hotel isTable moredining like a resort, with a in shop, spa Aand Theis Chefs takes place the pool, kitchen. setgym. menu Chefs Table diningcourse takes prepared place in the set menu is offered, with each by akitchen. differentA chef, who will offered, with eachand course prepared by a different chef, who will serve it personally explain the dish. serve it personally and explain the dish.
Day 4 We had hotel inspections followed by the Hop-on-hop-off bus exploring Cape Town. Unfortunately the cable car to the top of Table Mountain was closed due to high winds, despite the Day 4 We had hotel inspections followed by the Hop-on-hop-off beautiful sunshine. Instead we took the Camps bus exploring Cape Town. Unfortunately the bus cabletocar to the Bay top ofand spent Mountain some timewas at the beach, was winds, beautiful and I the would Table closed duewhich to high despite definitelysunshine. recommend clients visiting stay Cape beautiful Instead we took the during bus to their Camps Bayin and town.some Our second night in Cape Town, stayed at Ithe Cape spent time at the beach, which was we beautiful and would Grace Hotel on the Waterfront. This hotel is in a wonderful location definitely recommend clients visiting during their stay in Cape and rooms either have of the waterfront or Table town. Our second night views in Cape Town, we stayed at theMountain. Cape The Cape really think This about andiscare for their guests, Grace Hotel Grace on the Waterfront. hotel in a wonderful locationand go above to make thewaterfront stay enjoyable. Complimentary and rooms and eitherbeyond have views of the or Table Mountain. The Grace is really think and care for their guests, and portCape and sherry offered in about the lounge at 6pm, and complimentary go above and beyond to make the in stay enjoyable. Complimentary wine tasting. We enjoyed dinner their main restaurant, which is port sherry is offered in the lounge at have 6pm, and complimentary a laand carte dining, although guests can a lighter menu at the wine enjoyed dinner in their main restaurant, whichtoisthe pooltasting. area orWe in the Bascule whisky bar, which is also open apublic la carte dining, although canThe havefourth a lighter at the and offers whiskyguests tasting. floormenu of the Cape pool area in the Bascule whisky bar,private which check is alsoin, open the Grace is or adults only, and has its own withtosnacks, public and offers whiskysotasting. fourth or floor of the Cape and concierge service, perfect The for couples honeymooners. Grace is adults only, and has its own private check in, with snacks, and concierge service, so perfect for couples or honeymooners.
Day 5 was Bushman’s Kloof Private Nature Reserve. During our first 5game we saw some springbok and ostriches, as well Day was drive Bushman’s Kloof Private Nature Reserve. During our as enjoying stopweforsaw drinks to springbok watch theand sunset. Onceaswewell finished first game a drive some ostriches, as our drinks, we for carried the shepherds we were enjoying a stop drinksonto to watch the sunset. hut, Oncewhere we finished having dinner. The hutonwas only candlelight and awe fire,were and is our drinks, we carried to lit thebyshepherds hut, where the perfect location a romantic Theyand useathis having dinner. The hutforwas lit by onlydinner. candlelight fire,mostly and is for special occasions such as anniversaries or engagements, but the perfect location for a romantic dinner. They use this mostly forany guestsoccasions are able such to reserve a dinner here. On arrival but theyany offer special as anniversaries or engagements, bubblyare andable canapes around the outdoor fire,arrival and then guests to reserve a dinner here. On they serve offer a buffet-style 3-coursearound dinner.the After dinner, drove bubbly and canapes outdoor fire,weand thenback servetoathe lodge, and 3-course were lucky to seeAfter a herd of zebra. buffet-style dinner. dinner, we drove back to the lodge, and were lucky to see a herd of zebra.
Day 6 was spent in Franschhoek where we used the Wine Tram to Day was spent in Franschhoek used the Wine Tram to visit6local vineyards. We visitedwhere three we in total, including Môreson, visit local vineyards. We visited Bridge. three in I total, including Môreson, Leopard’s Leap and Rickety preferred Leopard’s Leap Leopard’s and preferred out of theLeap ones weRickety visitedBridge. which Igave good Leopard’s value for Leap a wine out of the we visited which gave good value for a wine tasting for ones six premium wines. tasting for six premium wines. (For Hannah’s full report please go to our website blog page) (For Hannah’s full report please go to our website blog page)
Exceptional South Africa Escape the obvious with Exsus Travel South Africa is full of awe-inspiring landscapes and epic wildlife, with a world-renowned food and wine scene and fascinating history and culture. It is a fantastic year-round destination for everyone from families to couples and honeymooners. Get the most out of your visit by booking with an expert who knows it inside out.
Enjoy exemplary scenery, wine and local hospitality
See the Big Five in style
Experience Cape Town’s gourmet food, rich history and friendly locals. Sip world-renowned wines alongside more exceptional cuisine at stunning vineyards and hotels in the Winelands. Hop in a car in Cape Town for a scenic coastal self-drive adventure along the Garden Route, sampling fresh seafood along the way. It will feel familiar too, as you’ll drive on the same side of the road as the UK.
South Africa is synonymous with wildlife – but make sure you go to the very best places to come face to face with your favourite animals. The northern game reserves and national parks such as Kruger, Madikwe and Sabi Sands allow you to enjoy memorable wildlife adventures without stinting on luxury: in between safaris, stay in wow-factor lodges overlooking the plains.
Witness Instagrammable canyons
Get off the beaten track
The Panorama Route is aptly named – you are rewarded with panoramic vistas everywhere you look. The Blyde River Canyon, which extends for 50km along the northern part of the impressive Drakensberg mountain range, is like a living postcard. Marvel at natural wonders such as the Bourke’s Luck Potholes, the Three Rondavels, Pinnacle Rock and God’s Window.
The Karoo is one of South Africa’s hidden gems, a gorgeous, undiscovered wilderness of vast, open desert-like plains (‘Karoo’ comes from a Bushman word for ‘dry place’). It has long attracted artists, writers, musicians, craftspeople and intrepid adventurers – and you can join them. Stay on a traditional South African farm and experience a slice of South Africa that few people get to see.
South Africa is perfect for a self-drive adventure Exsus Travel offers a one-week self-drive holiday from £2,599pp, including flights and accommodation.
Africa • Asia • Australasia • Europe • Indian Ocean • Middle East North America • South America • Caribbean
ABTA No.Y6561 ABTA No.Y6561
*For all the details on our Exclusive Departures go to our website www.travel-stop.co.uk or just give us a call
THE MADRID AREA OF SPAIN
By Helen Pardy-Taylor
Day 1 Bridget, Anna, Emma and I checked in for the Ryanair flight at Stansted and arrived in Madrid 2½ hours later. We transferred Daybeautiful 1 Bridget, Anna, Emma de andMontijo, I checked for the Ryanair to the Hotel Eugenia a 5instar hotel in theflight city at Stansted and arrived in Madrid hours later. We transferred centre of the UNESCO world heritage2½ city of Toledo. to the beautiful Hotel Eugenia de Montijo, a 5 star hotel in the city Day 2 Today met with a local city city guide for a tour of Toledo. centre of thewe UNESCO world heritage of Toledo. Comfortable shoes are recommended for the cobbled streets, Daydisplay 2 Today with a Jewish local cityand guide for a tour of Toledo. which a we mixmet of Arab, Christian monuments. Comfortable are marzipan recommended for the cobbled According to theshoes Spanish, was invented by nunsstreets, of the which display a mix of Arab, Jewish and Christian monuments. Convent of San Clemente and you will find marzipan products According to the Spanish, marzipan was invented by nuns of the being sold inofallSan cafes. Convent Clemente and you will find marzipan products being sold in all cafes.
Day 3 After breakfast we were driven to ‘Parque Natural de Las Day 3 After driven ‘Parque Natural de Lasand Lagunas de breakfast Ruidera’ we a were wetland of to small groups of lakes Lagunas deSome Ruidera’ a wetlandyet of others small groups of swim, lakes dive and or waterfalls. are protected you may waterfalls. Some arewe protected you may dive or take a canoe. Next stoppedyet at others Tomelloso, with swim, 45m chimneys, take symbol a canoe.ofNext stoppedRevolution. at Tomelloso, with 45m the the we Industrial Finally we chimneys, reached the the symbolde of the Industriala Revolution. Finallyformer we reached the Parador Cuenca, 16th-century monastery. Parador is de Cuenca, a 16th-century formershelters monastery. Cuenca a Unesco-protected fortress city which some of Cuenca finest is a Unesco-protected which shelters Spain's contemporary artfortress within city its ancient walls. some of Spain's finest contemporary art within its ancient walls. Day 4 We were introduced to the Puente de San Pablo, a bridge Day 4 We introduced to theour Puente Pablo, bridge across the were Huecar Gorge. With guidede weSan visited theaCathedral across the Huecar Gorge. With our guide we visited the Cathedral de Cuenca, visited the clock tower and learned about the hanging de Cuenca, visited the clock tower and learned about the hanging toilets! toilets!
Burial CountofofOrgaz Orgazpainting paintingisis on on display display in in the the TheThe Burial of of thetheCount church Santo Tome.The Thechurch churchopens opensdaily daily and and charges charges 33 church of of Santo Tome. Euros. This is the same fee mostmuseums/religious museums/religious buildings. buildings. Euros. This is the same fee forformost However, there alsoa awristband wristbandfor for10 10Euros Euros which which includes includes However, there is is also seven of the most important emblematicmonuments monumentsof ofToledo:Toledo:seven of the most important emblematic
Royal College Noble Maidens Royal College of of Noble Maidens Church of the Jesuits Church of the Jesuits Juan Reyes SanSan Juan de de loslos Reyes former mosque Cristo Luz former mosque of of Cristo dede la la Luz Santo Tome Santo Tome The Church of the Savior The Church of the Savior Old synagogue of Santa Maria la Blanca. Old synagogue of Santa Maria la Blanca. Even though we experienced very hot weather in the 80’s, the Even though we and experienced very hot weather in the the narrow streets tall buildings cast welcome shade. We80’s, enjoyed narrow streets and buildingsbefore cast welcome We enjoyed a tapas lunch at tall Alfileritos24 boarding shade. the mini-bus for our a tapas lunch at Alfileritos24 before boarding our next destination, the ten windmills in Campothe de mini-bus Criptana. for Dating next destination, the tenitwindmills Campobyde“Don Criptana. Dating from the 16th century was madeinfamous Quixote”. We from the 16th was it’s made famous by “Don Quixote”. Wea drove on to century Almagroit with ‘Corral de Comedias of Almagro’ drove to Almagro it’s ‘Corral de theatre, Comedias a wellon preserved 17thwith century open-air still ofin Almagro’ use today. wellAlmagro preserved 17th very century open-air theatre, still which in useruns today. is also popular for lace-making for Almagro is also very popular for lace-making runs for generations in families. We checked into Paradorwhich de Almagro, a generations in families. We checked into just Parador dewalk Almagro, a 16th-century former convent in the town, a short from the central plaza. 16th-century former convent in the town, just a short walk from the central plaza.
During the city walk we were told of the “Fiesta de San Mateo“ During the city weSeptember. were told Bulls of the de San Mateo“ which takes placewalk every run“Fiesta the streets but none which takes place every September. run the Raff, streets but none are harmed. We stopped for lunch at Bulls Restaurante which is are We locals stopped lunch alike. at Restaurante which is very harmed. popular with andfor tourists We said ourRaff, goodbyes very popular our withmini-bus locals and tourists goodbyes and boarded back to the alike. airportWe butsaid still our managed a and our mini-bus to the airport still managed a brief boarded five minute stop to viewback the Royal Palace of but Madrid. brief five minute stop to view the Royal Palace of Madrid. What a full-on weekend that was! What a full-on weekend that was! Many thanks to Mariam Sajjad from Typically Spain Holidays for creating many to wonderful Many thanks Mariammemories. Sajjad from Typically Spain Holidays for creating many wonderful memories.
Discover the beauty of Italy
Owing to its fabulous climate, enviable gastronomy, fantastic wines, beautiful scenery, magnificent architecture and rich heritage, Italy has long been a favoured haunt for British travellers. With so many stunning locations, whether a city break, trip to the lakes or relaxing on the beach, holidays to Italy have something for everyone. Whether you’re a family looking for the perfect beach holiday in Sardinia, a couple searching for a romantic break in Sicily or on the spectacular coastline of Sorrento and Amalfi, or someone wanting to enjoy the gastronomic delights of Tuscany and Umbria, holidays in Italy are there to be indulged and enjoyed. Experience the sights and shopping on a city break in one of Italy’s fantastic cities, or discover the beauty of the Italian lakes and the largely untouched region of Puglia, enjoy the glamour of the Italian Riviera, or you’re simply in need of a bit of pampering at a spa hotel on Capri & Ischia. Italy is an exceptional destination which caters for your every need. With so much on offer, why not choose an Italian multi-centre holiday? Spend your time tasting decadent delights in Italy’s vibrant
cities, walking across striking mountainous landscapes, gazing out over enchanting lakes or soaking up the sunshine on a golden sandy beach. Popular multi-centre itineraries include spending a few days exploring the hidden secrets of Florence on a walking tour, then renting a car and heading to the Tuscany Coast where the rolling hills of the Italian landscape meet the Mediterranean Sea. Alternatively, journey from the vibrant city of Rome with its majestic historical buildings intermingled with modern designer shops, to the beautiful coastal vistas and tantalising cuisine afforded in Sorrento. With so many locations to choose from and a variety of excursions available, including cooking classes, opera tickets and visits to historical landmarks, there is no easier way to make the most of your Italian escape. Classic Collection Holidays looks forward to working with Travel Stop to create your perfect holiday.
Let us inspire you...
Venice & Lake Garda from £1099pp Venice, a romantic city famed for its palaces, basilicas, grand squares, and gondolas which glide around its delightful waterways. Spend 2 nights here before travelling by first class rail to Bardolino, Lake Garda. An area of outstanding natural beauty where the foothills of the Alps meets the mesmerising shoreline. PRICE INCLUDES:
Aqualux Hotel Spa Suite & Terme
• Flights from Stansted • 2 nights at the 5* Baglioni Hotel Luna, Venice, on bed & breakfast basis • 3 nights at the 4* Aqualux Hotel Spa Suite & Terme, on bed & breakfast basis • Private transfers and first class rail
Per person ‘from prices’ are based on two adults sharing a room, including private resort transfers and return economy flights on selected dates shown. Savings are per couple against original system pricing for selected properties on selected dates. All holidays are limited and subject to change, and may include offers promoted previously. Prices correct as of publication date: 15 November 2019. Full booking conditions at www.classic-collection.co.uk.
SPOTLIGHT ON…
Sarah Yandell and the Hadleigh Sales Team
Sarah Yandell, Manager Sarah Yandell joined Travel Stop in Sarah Yandell, Manager November as the Manager of our Hadleigh
Sarah Yandell joined in team, having worked in theTravel travel Stop industry Manager of our Hadleigh forNovember more thanas 30the years. team, having worked in the travel industry She her30 career forstarted more than years.in hotel sales before then moving to tour operating which took her She started her sourcing career inaccommodation. hotel sales before around the world then moving to tour operating which took her After taking a career break to complete a around the world sourcing accommodation. Master of Business Administration (MBA) After taking a career break to complete a degree, she has worked for a rail holiday Master of Business Administration (MBA) company, Travel Counsellor and,holiday more degree, as shea has worked for a rail recently, for a Scandinavian specialist tour company, as a Travel Counsellor and, more operator. enabled her to witness recently,This for arole Scandinavian specialist tour theoperator. Northern Lights, try out her snowmobiling This role enabled to witness and mushing. thehusky Northern Lights, try out snowmobiling and husky Her favourite destinations are Italy,mushing. South Africa and Australia and is planning to destinations revisit Japan 2021 with herand family, having Her favourite are in Italy, South Africa Australia and previously visited is planning to Tokyo. revisit Japan in 2021 with her family, having previously visited Tokyo. Not only is her list of destinations visited extremely Not only issheheris also list qualified of destinations comprehensive, to crew avisited yacht. extremely She has comprehensive, also qualified crew a yacht. She has sailed in Kefaloniashe andis more recently todiscovered the beautiful sailed Kefalonia and more recently discovered the beautiful coast and in islands of Croatia. coast and islands of Croatia. So, does an itinerary to include the Northern Lights appeal? And does an itinerary to include the Northern Lights And are So, you aware of just how many options areappeal? available? are you aware of just how many options are available? “The Arctic adventure playground, which stretches from Norway’s “The Arctic playground, which stretches fromofNorway’s Russian borderadventure westwards to Greenland offers a wealth exciting Russian border westwards to Greenland offers a wealth of exciting experiences. For some, it is the opportunity to spend a night in an experiences. For some, it is the opportunity to spend a night in an ice ice or or snow hotel or orananaurora snow hotel auroradome domewhich which inspires inspires them; them; for for others, it’s simply the search for the aurora borealis others, it’s simply the search for the aurora borealis which which provides thethe inspiration to to visit this provides inspiration visit thisbeautiful beautifulwilderness. wilderness.And And some some justjust want to to experience thetheadventure want experience adventureofofsnowmobiling, snowmobiling, reindeer reindeer sledding or or husky mushing; sledding husky mushing;ororwant wanttotosee seethe theunique unique wildlife wildlife of of thisthis region whales, region- -seals, seals, whales,eagles eaglesand andpolar polar bears. bears. Whatever Whatever youryour desire, it’sit’s anan area which is isreadily desire, area which readilyavailable availabletotoexplore explore by by air, air, landland or sea.” or sea.” Draw from Sarah’s first-hand experience Draw from Sarah’s first-hand experienceofofthis thisarea area of of the the world world in to discuss your plans.Let Lether hermake makesuggestions suggestions and and andand callcall in to discuss your plans. recommend some itineraries yousosothat thatyou youcan canget get the the most most recommend some itineraries forforyou of your planned trip. out out of your planned trip.
“The Maldives has a hot, tropical climate with sunshine all year round. The most popular months to visit are between November and April whenhas theadays are drierclimate with very wind. all The flying “The Maldives hot, tropical with little sunshine year round. TheLondon most popular months November time from to Male directtoisvisit just are overbetween ten hours and is an and when the are drier with with Abu very Dhabi, little wind. TheSri flying idealApril destination to days be combined Dubai, Lanka time from London to Male direct azure is just over hours andturquoise is an or India. The cobalt ocean, coralten reefs and ideal destination be combined with based Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sri Lankaand lagoons offer atovariety of water adventure. Diving or India. The ocean, reefs and snorkelling are cobalt a popular way azure to passcoral the blissful days.turquoise Influenced lagoons offer aand variety of water based Divingisand by Sri Lankan Keralan cuisine, foodadventure. in the Maldives spicy, snorkelling are a popular way to pass the blissful days. Influenced flavoursome and not to be missed.” by Sri Lankan and Keralan cuisine, food in the Maldives is spicy, Island-hopping recommended flavoursome andisnot to be missed.”and easily arranged. Karin will be happy to make suggestions for that perfect itinerary. Island-hopping is recommended and easily arranged. Karin will be happy to make suggestions for that perfect itinerary.
Camilla Packard
Camilla Packard Camilla has
“Florida
is
the
number
one
holiday
“Florida is in thethenumber destination World. one From holiday the world destination in the World. the world class theme parks and From attractions to the class and themedining parks on and offer, attractions the is huge array of shopping theretotruly huge array for of everyone. shopping There and dining offer, truly which is something is also on huge partthere of Florida something for everyone. There is also huge part of Florida which many tourists (even the ones who return year on year) have yet to many tourists (even the ones who return year on year) have yet to discover. Despite what you may think, there is more to Florida discover. Despite what you may think, there is more to Florida than the bustling theme parks of Orlando. The state also offers than the bustling theme parks of Orlando. The state also offers award winning winning beaches, beaches, beautiful beautifulwildlife wildlifeandandyear yearround round award sunshine.” sunshine.”
For first-hand first-handadvice adviceon onyour yournext nextDisney Disney holiday, Camilla would For holiday, Camilla would be delighted delightedtotohelp. help. be
Emma Price Price Emma
Emmajoined joined Travel Stop upon return Emma Travel Stop upon herher return toto the having lived theUK UKfrom fromAustralia, Australia, having lived there years. Her career, both before thereforfor1515 years. Her career, both before leaving living leaving forforAustralia Australiaandandwhilst whilst living there, travel there, has hasalways alwaysbeen beenin inthethe travel industry. industry. Emma Emma has hastravelled travelledquite quite extensively, to to extensively, her herlatest latesttrips tripsbeing being Greece Thailand. Greeceand and Thailand.
KarinHenry Henry Karin
Karinhas hasbeen beenwith with Travel Travel Stop Stop since since Karin leavingThomas ThomasCook Cookinin2013. 2013. She She loves loves leaving travelling and and has has been been to to many many travelling destinations around the world and enjoys destinations around the world and enjoys sharing her first-hand knowledge with her sharing her first-hand knowledge with her customers. customers. In Europe she particularly likes Italy and In the Europe particularly and Greekshe islands, havinglikes beenItaly twice in thetheGreek having in last islands, couple of years,been as twice well as theMorocco last couple of years, as well as and Spain. Morocco and Spain. Since joining Travel Stop she has been Since joining Stop she and hasvisited been on a river cruise and cruised on the Travel Celebrity Edge, on Grenada, a river cruise cruisedZanzibar, on the Celebrity Edge, and India,and Tanzania, Mexico, Majorca and,visited most recently,India, the Maldives. Grenada, Tanzania, Zanzibar, Mexico, Majorca and, most recently, the Maldives.
been with Travel Stop for
three years, havingwith moved to the Hadleigh Camilla has been Travel Stop for officeyears, fromhaving Claydon at to the three moved thebeginning Hadleigh of 2019.from Her Claydon extensiveatknowledge of Florida office the beginning of and, Her in particular, Disney, isof second 2019. extensive knowledge Florida to none. been iseight times and, in Having particular,now Disney, second to in recentHaving years (twice in both 2018times and 2019) none. now been eight in recent years both 2018 andwhom 2019) to she is the(twice idealin person with she is the idealplans. person with whom to discuss Disney discuss Disney plans.
“Thailand enchanting country withwith a a “Thailandis isanan enchanting country rich thethe people richcultural culturaltradition, tradition,where where people are warm and friendly and the scenery is are warm and friendly and the scenery is often breathtaking. This is a land of often breathtaking. This and is atropical land of ancient temples, tantalising cuisine, pristine beaches ancient temples, tantalising cuisine, pristine tropical rainforests. From elephant camps to world classbeaches resorts, and Thailand rainforests. From elephant camps to world class resorts, Thailand has something for everyone. Despite the fact that Thailand is a has something everyone. Despite the fact thattoThailand huge country, thefor majority of visitors continue to flock the sameis a huge country, the it’s majority of visitors visitorstocontinue flocktotostick the same handful of places; as if all France to decide to handful it’s as if all visitors to France decide to stick to Paris andofStplaces; Tropez.”
Paris and St Tropez.”
We believe that you’ll have a more enriching and enjoyable We believein Thailand that you’ll have a more enriching and enjoyable experience if you do something a little bit different.
experience in Thailand do something a little different. At Travel Stop, we loveif you making suggestions and bit helping plan itineraries it is what do best! At Travel - Stop, wewe love making suggestions and helping plan itineraries - it is what we do best!
THAILAND
By Emma Price
Day 1 On arrival in Phuket we were met for a speed boat transfer Day 1 On arrival in Phuket we were met for a speed boat transfer to Koh Yao Noi Island where we were staying at the Paradise Koh to Koh Yao Noi Island where we were staying at the Paradise Koh Yao. on Yao.Koh KohYao YaoNoi Noiisisa alovely lovelyunspoilt unspoilt island island that that depends depends on fishing, farming and Koh fishing, farming andtourism. tourism.When Whenwe wearrived arrived at at the the Paradise Paradise Koh Yao wewe were greeted Yao were greetedwith withcold coldtowels towelsand and drinks drinks before before walking walking along thethesandy were along sandybeach beachtotothe themain main reception. reception. Our Our rooms rooms were lovely, with clean and The lovely, with clean andbright brightdécor décorand andaabalcony balcony swing swing chair. chair. The Treehouse Villas and Treehouse Villasnext nextdoor doorare arenestled nestledback back from from the the beach beach and have their have theirown ownindividual individualstyle. style. Each Each has has an an individual individual plunge plunge pool, seating area and pool, seating area and“E“EButler” Butler”totoorder orderdrinks drinks via via an an iPad.
Day 2 We were taken by speed boat to the other side of the Island Day 2 Wethe were taken speed boattwo to the other side of the where locals livebyand to see other properties. TheIsland first where the was locals and to see other isproperties. The who first property thelive Cape Kudu – thistwo property ideal for those property theeat Cape Kudu – this property is idealmore. for those who would was like to in local restaurants and explore It is very would eat in localand restaurants and explore It is very cleanlike andtocomfortable again we were greeted more. with cold towels clean and are comfortable again we greeted with towels (which very welland received in were the humidity). All cold rooms are decorated the same theindifferent room types. foodare in (which are very well across received the humidity). All The rooms the restaurant wasacross delicious mainly local Thai The food.food After decorated the same the and different room types. in the hotel before going to the next we food. had aAfter tour theleaving restaurant wasand delicious and mainly localone, Thai of thethe Island to and meetbefore some locals seenext howone, theywe live.had They are leaving hotel going and to the a tour friendlytoand humble The see next how property went to see of very the Island meet somepeople. locals and theywe live. They are was Six Senses Yao Noi whichThe is set onproperty a hill. All villas are very friendly and humble people. next wethe went to see lovely and if you type isofset person to are be was Six Senses Yaoare Noithe which on a that hill. would All the like villas isolated is theare place you.of person that would like to be lovely andthis if you thefortype isolated this is the place for you.
Day 3 Today was a boat transfer back to the mainland for three Day 3 Today was a boat transfer back to the mainland for three hotel inspections. First was the Devasom Khao Lak Beach resort. hotel inspections. First was the Devasom Khao Lak Beach resort. The beach beachfront frontvillas villasoffer offerspellbinding spellbinding sea views again The sea views andand again the the food atat this this property propertycannot cannotbebefaulted. faulted. The next food The next visitvisit waswas TheThe Sands Khao KhaoLak LakbybyKatathani Katathaniwhich which caters both families Sands caters forfor both families andand couples.This Thishotel hotelisisvery verypopular popular with families it has its very couples. with families as as it has its very ownsplash splashpark. park. own
After leaving The Sands we checked in to the La Flora Khao Lak, After leaving The Sands we checked in to the La Flora Khao Lak, another stunning property where we were to stay for the next two anotherIt stunning property where we to were to and staytoforthe the next two nights. is in a great location to walk town market. nights. It is in a great location to walk to town and to the market. Our deluxe sea view rooms were beautiful. Our deluxe sea view rooms were beautiful. Day4 The next day we visited the Manathai and The Sarajin. The Day4 The isnext day we visitedbuilt the on Manathai andThe Therooms Sarajin. Mandathai a 4-star property the beach. areThe Mandathai is a 4-star property built be on the beach. The rooms clean and comfortable and would great for families and are clean and and wouldproperty be great families couples. The comfortable Sarajin was my favourite of allfor those that weand couples. Thegrounds Sarajinare wasstunning my favourite property all those visited - the and so are theofrooms. Withthat its we visited - the grounds are stunning and so are the rooms. contemporary Asian style this a boutique property not toWith be its contemporary Asian thisand a the boutique property notsotoif be missed. The food here style is 5 star selection amazing, missed. The food here is 5 star and theI selection so if you are looking for something unique then feel this isamazing, the one for you. you are looking for something unique then I feel this is the one for you. 5, 6 & 7 We travelled to Elephant Hills Elephant Camp to Day
meet All I can to sayElephant is WOW!Hills TheElephant interaction you to Day the 5, 6elephants & 7 We- travelled Camp have is amazing. highlightThe of the trip and ifyou meetwith the them elephants - All IThis can was saythe is WOW! interaction elephants your thing, thenThis this was is a once-in-a-lifetime must have withare them is amazing. the highlight of the tripdo. and if Come and talk mething, at Hadleigh andisI will be happy to tell you all do. elephants are to your then this a once-in-a-lifetime must about Comeit.and talk to me at Hadleigh and I will be happy to tell you all about it.
I must give a huge thank you to Inspired by Asia for arranging this trip and to Helen for hosting us so well. I must give a huge thank you to Inspired by Asia for arranging this trip and to Helen for hosting us so well.
ESCORTED TOURING TO ALL 7 CONTINENTS JAPAN • COSTA RICA • AMERICA’S MUSIC CITIES • AND MORE
MORE INCLUDED - YOU’RE NOT JUST GOING ON TOUR, YOU’RE HAVING A TRAVEL experience 4*+ ACCOMMODATION • CULTURAL EXPERIENCES • CULINARY INCLUSIONS
BRITISH COLOMBIA – CANADA
By Louise Gorbatov
Day 1 Prestige Holidays invited me to join them to experience Vancouver and the not so well-known Okanagan Valley region of Day 1 Prestige Holidays invited me to join them to experience British Columbia. From Heathrow we boarded our direct British Vancouver and the not so well-known Okanagan Valley region of Airways to Vancouver. On arrival were transferred to the Britishflight Columbia. From Heathrow wewe boarded our direct British Sheraton in the heart Downtown Vancouver. AirwaysWall flightCentre to Vancouver. On of arrival we were transferred to the Sheraton Wall Centre in the heart of Downtown Vancouver.
DAY 4 Our first visit today was to Davison Orchards Country Village. The orchard offers local produce grown right there in DAY 4 Our first visit today was to Davison Orchards Country Vernon, British Columbia. They use all the ingredients in the Village. The orchard offers local produce grown right there in bakery, shop onsite café. met by in a native Vernon, Britishand Columbia. They We use were all thethen ingredients the Secwepemc or Shuswap as known to the bakery, shop - and onsite café. We were thennon-native. met by a Shuswap native are indigenous native to British Columbia. We heard about Secwepemc - orpeople Shuswap as known to the non-native. Shuswap the indigenous history of the people before visiting a traditional pit house are people native to British Columbia. We heard about to make our own bread overbefore a fire.visiting Our evening endedpit with a superb the history of the people a traditional house to Michelin 5 course mealOur in evening the hotel’s restaurant - Jack make our quality own bread over a fire. ended with a superb Sam’s. quality 5 course meal in the hotel’s restaurant - Jack Michelin Sam’s.
DAY 2 We headed to the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park which 2 We headed to the Capilano Suspension hasDAY 7 suspended footbridges 110 feet above theBridge forestPark floor.which Our has 7 suspended footbridges 110 feetfor above the forest floor. Our next stop was Granville Island Market a 2 hour ‘Foodie Tour’. next Island a 2 hour Here westop hadwas theGranville opportunity to Market samplefor some of the‘Foodie many Tour’. local Here wetohad the opportunity to sample thecheese many local delicacies include salmon bagels, local some meatsofand and include salmon bagels, and cheese You and notdelicacies forgettingtothe donuts. Our next stoplocal was meats FlyOver Canada. not forgetting the donuts. Our next before stop was Canada. You hang suspended, feet dangling, a FlyOver 20-metre spherical hangwhile suspended, feet dangling, 20-metre 8-minute spherical screen the film whisks you awaybefore on an aexhilarating screen while the film whisks you away on an exhilarating 8-minute journey across Canada. The special effects, including wind, mist journey across Canada. The special effects, including wind, mist andand scents, combined with the ride’s motion, created a real feel scents, combined with the ride’s motion, created a real feel good experience. good experience. Day 55 We We visited visited aaShuswap Shuswapmuseum museumwhich which gave a further Day gave us us a further insight into into the the native nativepeople. people.After Aftera aquick quicklunch lunch stop made insight stop wewe made our way way to to the the Sun SunPeaks Peaksresort resortwhich whichoffers offers second largest our thethe second largest ski area area in in Canada Canadaplus plusmountain mountainbiking, biking,hiking hiking and golfing in the ski and golfing in the summer. summer.
DAY The SuttonPlace PlaceHotel Hotelisisquite quite opulent, opulent, attracting attracting the the DAY 3 3 The Sutton custom of the rich and famousincluding includingCatherine CatherineZeta-Jones Zeta-Jones and and custom of the rich and famous Affleck. had breakfastthere therebefore beforeour our50-minute 50-minute flight flight to to BenBen Affleck. WeWe had breakfast Kelowna, British Columbia.On Onarrival arrivalinto intothe the Okanagan Okanagan region region Kelowna, British Columbia. transferred MissionHill HillWinery Wineryfor foraaSommelier Sommelier guided guided tour tour we we transferred to to Mission and wine tasting. Next stop was Quails Gate Winery for another and wine tasting. Next stop was Quails Gate Winery for another tasting experience and stroll through the vineyards. tasting experience and stroll through the vineyards.
Day 6 A leisurely start where a few of us opted for this morning's Day 6 Aactivity leisurely a few us optedWe for then this morning's optional of start yoga,where followed by of breakfast. had a optional activity ofwander yoga, around followedthebyresort breakfast. then out. had a little free time for a before We checking littlethen free made time for wander around the resort checking We oura way to Kamloops airport to before begin our journeyout. We then way to Kamloops airport begin journey home withmade a firstour flight back to Vancouver. We to had timeour to catch home a first to flight to Vancouver. WeOutlet had time to we catch the freewith SkyTrain the back McArthurGlen Designer before the free our SkyTrain to the McArthurGlen boarded night flight back to Heathrow.Designer Outlet before we boarded our night flight back to Heathrow. Thank you to Prestige Holidays for giving me this opportunity to Thank you Columbia. to Prestige Holidays giving some me this visit British I would lovefor to return dayopportunity to explore to visit area BritishinColumbia. would My lovetop to return somebe daynever to explore the more in Idepth. tip would to the area in more in depth. tip in would be As never underestimate how much time My youtop need a city. for to Vancouver, it's probably not going be enough! underestimate how much timeto you need in a city. As for Vancouver, it's probably not going to be enough!
THE YUKON TERRITORY – NORTH WEST CANADA Yukon, Canada When you consider Canada, a plethora of iconic images come to Yukon, Canada mind. Perhaps foremost are its majestic mountains and emerald When you consider Canada, of iconic images come to green lakes, but consider fora plethora a moment experiencing these mind. Perhaps foremost are bustling its majestic mountains and emerald beautiful vistas away from the tourist trails and combining green consider for a moment experiencing these them with lakes, historicbut ‘gold rush’ locations, the ethereal display of the beautiful vistas away from the bustling tourist trails and combining Northern Lights and an unimaginable array of wildlife. Sitting in the them with historic ‘gold rush’ locations, the ethereal display of the northwest corner of Canada, Yukon is one of North America’s Northern Lights and an unimaginable array of wildlife. Sitting in the most impressive you have an northwest corner wilderness of Canada, destinations. Yukon is one If of North America’s adventurer’s spirit, a love of naturedestinations. and a passion most impressive wilderness If for youexploration, have an Yukon should bespirit, at the top ofofyour holiday adventurer’s a love nature and adestination passion forlist. exploration, Yukon should be at the top of your holiday destination list.
The Wilderness is Waiting The Wilderness is Yukon Waitingis pristine wilderness. It’s impressive A staggering 80% of staggering 80%territory of Yukonis ishome pristine It’s impressive thatA this Canadian to wilderness. Mount Logan, Canada’s that this Canadian territory is home to Mount highest mountain, as well as Kluane National ParkLogan, which Canada’s is one of well as Kluane National which is one of thehighest world’smountain, largest as non-polar icefields and aPark UNESCO World the world’s largest non-polar icefields and just a UNESCO Heritage Site, but these landmarks represent the start World of its Heritage Site, but theseand landmarks represent just pursuits the start when of its overall attraction. Hiking biking are everyday overall attraction. and biking areofeveryday when exploring the iconicHiking wilderness parks Kluane,pursuits Tombstone, exploring the iconic wilderness parks of Kluane, Tombstone, Herschel Island, Chilkoot, Ivvavik and Fishing Branch. Its famous Herschel Island, Chilkoot, Ivvavik and Fishing Branch. Its famous rivers and the countless crystal clear lakes provide for leisurely rivers and the countless crystal clear lakes provide for leisurely days kayaking, sailing days kayaking, sailingororcanoeing, canoeing,not nottotomention mention some some quite quite legendary fishing. legendary fishing.
Wild about Wildlife Wild about Wildlife The statistics are quite staggering! Roughly the size of France, TheYukon statistics staggering! the size France, has aare tinyquite population of just Roughly 34,000 people, the of majority of Yukon has a tiny population of just 34,000 people, the majority of whom are concentrated around the largest city of Whitehorse. whom are concentrated around the largest city160,000 of Whitehorse. Compare this to its non-human counterparts: caribou, Compare to its22,000 non-human counterparts: 160,000 70,000 this moose, mountain sheep, 7,000 grizzlycaribou, bears, 70,000 moose, 22,000 10,000 black bears andmountain over 250 sheep, species 7,000 of birds,grizzly and it bears, brings 10,000 black bearshow and over 250 itspecies of birds, and itHome brings into perspective sensational is for wildlife watching. to intothree perspective sensational it is for parks wildlifeand watching. Home to nationalhow parks, six territorial four Canadian three national parks, six unique territorial parks and four and Canadian Heritage Rivers, Yukon’s geographic landscape varied Heritage Rivers,allow Yukon’s unique landscape eco-systems its wildlife to geographic thrive with little threat. and varied eco-systems allow its wildlife to thrive with little threat.
Join the Gold Rush Of theRush Gold Rush is synonymous with the Yukon. The Joincourse the Gold Of course Gold the Gold is synonymous with the Yukon. Thethe Klondike RushRush of 1898 drew settlers from across Klondike Gold Rush of 1898 settlers from across by thethe continent, eager to enjoy the drew extravagances afforded continent, eagerToday to enjoy the extravagances afforded byloyal the to golden bounty. this authentic frontier town remains golden bounty. Today thisitsauthentic frontier loyal to in its historic routes, with wild-west style town storeremains fronts painted its historic with its wild-west style sites store fronts painted in vivid hues,routes, a plethora of heritage and multi-cultural vivid hues, Using a plethora sitesvisitors and can multi-cultural attractions. DawsonofCityheritage as a base, take a step attractions. Using a base, visitors take a step back in time andDawson try theirCity luckasgold-panning at can Claim 33, before back in Dredge time andNo. try4their luck gold-panning at Claim 33, visiting which showcases the transition frombefore manual visiting Dredge No. 4 which showcases the transition from manual panning to machine searching. The gold rush inevitably created panning and to machine The gold rush inevitably heroes villains,searching. winners and losers and a wholecreated host of heroes and villains, winners and losers and a whole host of entertaining tales and fables which are still shared today. entertaining tales and fables which are still shared today.
Natures Magical Natures MagicalShow Show There are create thethe spine-tingling There are very veryfew fewnatural naturalwonders wonderswhich which create spine-tingling feeling and aurora feeling and magical magical awe aweyou youencounter encounterwhen whenwitnessing witnessing aurora borealis. Also thethe dense dark night borealis. Also known knownas asthe theNorthern NorthernLights, Lights, dense dark night skies created skies created by by Yukon’s Yukon’s remote remotesetting, setting,provide providethetheperfect perfect conditions for ribbons of of conditions for some some ofofthe themost mostdramatic dramaticundulating undulating ribbons green, blue green, blue and and red red light. light. Although Althoughdependent dependentononweather weather conditions and cloud cover, the best chance of dramatic aurora conditions and cloud cover, the best chance of dramatic aurora viewing is between autumn and spring. viewing is between autumn and spring. Don’t Miss Don’t * WhiteMiss Pass and Yukon Route – This vintage rail journey climbs *almost White3,000 Passfeet andinYukon This vintagecliff-hanging rail journeyturns climbs just 20Route miles –and features almost 3,000 feet in just 20 miles and features cliff-hanging turns and historic tunnels. and historicDesert tunnels. * Carcross – The smallest desert in the world at just 642 *acres. Carcross Desert – The smallest desert in the world at just 642 acres. * Emerald Lake – Yukon’s most photographed natural feature, its *shimmering Emerald Lake – Yukon’s natural turquoise watersmost draw photographed visitors from across thefeature, world. its shimmering turquoise waters draw visitors fromCity, across world. * Diamond Tooth Gerties – Located in Dawson this the old-west *style Diamond Tooth – Located in with Dawson City, this old-west gambling hall Gerties is absolutely bursting character. style gambling hall is absolutely bursting with character.
THE CALGARY STAMPEDE
By Hayley Chambers
Upon landing in Calgary, we had a short drive to our hotel and then on to our walking tour to the Sky Tower. We went up to the Upon landing in and Calgary, wethe had a short our hotel and Observation Deck took in 360° viewsdrive of thetocity. then on to our walking tour to the Sky Tower. We went up to the Observation Deck and took in the 360° views of the city.
There is a small glass platform that juts out from the rest of the There is aa glass small glass that juts frominvited the rest the deck, with floor! platform This is where weout were to of stand deck, with a glass floor! This is where we were invited to stand while we took part in our “White Hat Ceremony”, the long-standing while we took part in our “White Hat Ceremony”, the long-standing tradition in inCalgary good tradition Calgaryshowing showingtheir theirWestern Western hospitality hospitality and and good cheer, and said the White cheer, and said the WhiteHat HatOath. Oath.
We then went down one level to the Sky 360 restaurant and Weindulged then went down onefinest level Canadian to the Sky and in some of the food360 andrestaurant locally brewed indulged in restaurant some of the finest giving Canadian food andviews locally brewed ale. The revolves you excellent whilst you ale.enjoy Theyour restaurant youperhaps excellentthe views you meal, revolves which forgiving me was bestwhilst Rib Eye enjoy your meal, which for me was perhaps the best Rib Eye Steak I’d ever had. Steak I’d ever had. The next morning, we met and headed to Studio Bell, home of the The next morning, met and headed to Studio home music of the National Music we Centre, sporting exhibits on Bell, Canadian history. Music Elton John’s piano, on which he wroteonhisCanadian first four albums, National Centre, sporting exhibits music is here along withpiano, Geddy Beautiful Bassfour Exhibition. history. Elton John’s onLee’s whichBig he wrote his first albums, made our way to Smithbilt Hats to see all the is From here here alongwewith Geddy Lee’s Big Beautiful Basswhere Exhibition. proper hatsour areway made! From herecowboy we made to Smithbilt Hats to see where all the proper cowboy hats are made!
We then made our way to the Stampede grounds. It was huge like a giant fun fair. There were rides, food stalls, carnival games, We then made our waypubs, to the aStampede grounds. It was huge - for mascots, exhibitions, First Nation camp, something like a giant fun fair. There were rides, food stalls, carnival games, everyone. We followed some young Canadians and found mascots, exhibitions, pubs, a First Nation camp, something for ourselves standing right in front young of the railings as the everyone. We followed some Canadians andhorses foundand chuckwagons thundered by. ourselves standing right in front of the railings as the horses and chuckwagons thundered by.
Next day day we we were werepicked pickedupupbybytaxitaxiand and taken back to the Next taken back to the StampedeGrounds Groundsready readyforfor the afternoon events. Dressed head Stampede the afternoon events. Dressed head to toe toe inin“Western “WesternWear”, Wear”,hat hatand and boots included, went on a to boots included, we we went on a foodtour tourofofthe theStampede. Stampede.With With stomachs, made food fullfull stomachs, wewe made our our wayway backinintotothe theGrandstand Grandstandarea area and shown seats to watch back and shown to to ourour seats to watch the Rodeo. Rodeo.The Theatmosphere atmospherewas was excellent, with crowd going the excellent, with thethe crowd going wild for forthe thecowboys cowboystrying tryingtoto last 8 seconds bucking bulls wild last 8 seconds on on thethe bucking bulls andhorses! horses! and
We were shown all of the areas where the cowboys are waiting to We were allhorses. of the areas where are house. waiting to mount theirshown bucking Definitely the the bestcowboys seats in the mount their horses. Definitely the best the house. Following thisbucking jam-packed three days I would likeseats to sayinhow the flight was on thejam-packed return, but three I sleptdays up until aboutlike an to hour Following this I would saybefore how the landing! flight was on the return, but I slept up until about an hour before landing! (For Hayley’s full report please go to our website blog page) (For Hayley’s full report please go to our website blog page)
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CHINA
By Bridget Keevil
Shanghai Our hotel was perfectly positioned in the Bund area of Shanghai – a fabulous wide promenade area that runs along the river. The flowers and trees are all well-manicured and looking Shanghai Our hotel was perfectly positioned in the Bund area of superb in full bloom. Shanghai – a fabulous wide promenade area that runs along the river. The flowers and trees are all well-manicured and looking superb in full bloom.
Our guide Chee took us to the Yu gardens, which were lovely – water full of fish and turtles complementing the trees and flowers. Ourold guide Chee- took to the Yu gardens, which Centre were lovely From to new The us Shanghai Water Financial is the– watertallest full of fish and turtles complementing the trees flowers. second building in Shanghai. We travelled up and to the 100th From to new - The Shanghai Water Centre the Floor for old a good view of the city. From hereFinancial we crossed theisriver second tallest in Shanghai. travelled up to 100th again to the Westbuilding side, and visited theWe Jade Temple. Wethe learned good view theseveral city. From here wewith crossed river all Floor aboutfor thea Buddha andofhis underlings localsthetaking again to thevery West side, andToday visitedwe thearrived Jade Temple. We learned their prayers seriously. into People’s Park all about the Buddha andwith his umbrellas several underlings with locals taking to see the pathways lined each with notes pegged their prayers very seriously. Today we arrived into People’s on to each one. Some had people sitting behind them, Park not to see what the pathways lined with umbrellas notes pegged knowing these were, we read a feweach andwith ascertained the on to each one. Some had people sitting behind them, notes were describing people. We found out these were parentsnot or knowing what these were, we read a few and ascertained the grandparents advertising their child/grandchild for marriage! Later notes were describing people. We found out these were parents or we grandparents walked to theadvertising Indigo Hotel and up to the bar on the 30th floor, their child/grandchild for marriage! Later as we a good place to watch the sun As darkness fellfloor, the walked to the Indigo Hotel andgoupdown. to the bar on the 30th lights all theplace buildings came and whole transformed as of a good to watch theon sun gothe down. Asarea darkness fell the intolights a neon frenzy – an excellent finish ourwhole stay area in Shanghai. of all the buildings came on andtothe transformed into aOur neon frenzy – an finish to our stay in Shanghai. Guilin guide here is excellent Chen and it was raining cats and dogs. TheGuilin bad weather had caused theand riverit to burst its banks anddogs. had Our guide here is Chen was raining cats and flooded some roadshad on either Some poor its chap hadand parked The bad weather causedside. the river to burst banks had hisflooded tuk-tuk some just aroads little on tooeither closeside. to the waters-edge, it was Some poor chap and had parked virtually all covered. Chentoo picked next morning we his tuk-tuk just a little closeme to up thethe waters-edge, andand it was setvirtually off for all Longji. TheChen roadspicked were me among the worst I have covered. up the next morning andever we driven on – we thinkThe we roads have bad holes the in England you need set off forif Longji. werepot among worst I have ever drivenalong on – ifthis we stretch think weofhave potfinally holes arrived in England to drive road.badWe andyou theneed rain to drivethe along stretchthe of road. Wecame finallyoff arrived and camera the rain stopped, fogthis cleared, raincoat and the stopped, the fog cleared, the raincoat came –off camera went into action. The views were spectacular theand rainthe had lifted intothat action. Thethrough views were spectacular – rain amazing. had lifted intowent a mist hung the mountains. It the looked a mist through thewere mountains. It looked amazing. Theinto rows and that rowshung of rice terraces immaculate. The rows and rows of rice terraces were immaculate.
Yangshou Our activity todaywas wasa abike bikeride. ride.The Thearea area had had aa few Yangshou Our activity today cars, a few motorcycles andother otherbicycles, bicycles,but butvery, very, very very safe. safe. It cars, a few motorcycles and stop andtake takephotos photoswhenever wheneverI I wanted, wanted, the the roads roads waswas finefine to to stop and were and it was most enchantingscenery. scenery. were flatflat and it was thethe most enchanting
Rice fields flanked by the limestone mountains, the odd lotus flower field and a few small villages. We rode on the small paths the workers in the paddy fields use to get to tend their land – in Rice fields flanked by the rice limestone mountains, the tended odd lotus and out of the waterlogged crops that were being to by flower a fewknees small villages. rode onwere the small peoplefield up and to their in water.We There waterpaths buffalo the workers in the as paddy use to get tend their land – inand sharing the paths wellfields as chickens andtoabandoned cycles and out ofthat thebelonged waterlogged ricepeople crops that were being tended to by mopeds to the in the fields. people up to their knees in water. There were water buffalo sharing the paths as well as chickens and abandoned cycles and mopeds that belonged to the people in the fields.
Chen collected us this afternoon, and we went to see one of the infamous cormorant fishermen. Once the government says the Chen collected us this and wegoes wentout. to seeNot oneeven of thethe river is too high for afternoon, boats, no-one infamous thetogovernment says on thethe fishermen.cormorant So, we fishermen. had to be Once content see the birds river is too boats, no-one goes out. Not bamboo withhigh the for fisherman, and any questions weeven had the Chen fishermen. So, we had to be content to see the birds on the translated. The two birds he had were 12 years and 4 years – bamboo with the fisherman, and any questions we had Chen their normal life expectancy was around 25 years. As they are translated. The two birds he had were 12 years and 4 years – naturally fishing birds, why do they catch25 theyears. fish and give it their normal life expectancy was around As then they are to the fishermen? Hewhy tiesdograss around neck thatgive it can’t naturally fishing birds, they catch theitsfish andso then it swallow! to the fishermen? He ties grass around its neck so that it can’t swallow! Yangtze River Today we caught the CRT bullet train from Guilin to Chongqing. was awe fast train, the withCRT speeds on the notice Yangtze River ItToday caught bulletshown train from Guilin board rangingItup to a260 perwith hour. Theshown next three days were to Chongqing. was fastkm train, speeds on the notice spent ranging in the up Jade Suite front thethree Yangzi board to 260 km at perthe hour. Theofnext daysExplorer. were Beautiful. Dinner superb – I front don’t of think will beExplorer. losing any spent in the Jadewas Suite at the thewe Yangzi weight on this partwas of the trip. – I don’t think we will be losing any Beautiful. Dinner superb weight on this part of the trip.
Today we we sailed sailed through throughthe thethree threegorges. gorges.This Thisfirstfirst gorge Today gorge is is meant to to be be the themost mostbeautiful, beautiful,and andit itcertainly certainly was. And from meant was. And from ourour front balcony balconyititwas wasthe theideal idealposition positionforfor the viewing. The Yangtze front the viewing. The Yangtze can be be busy busy as asititisisan animportant importantpart partofof the transport system can the transport system andand you cruisers andand you are are sharing sharing the theriver riverwith withseveral severalother otherboats, boats, cruisers cargo andand cargo ships. ships. After After completing completingthe thejourney journeywewedisembarked disembarked went thethe best viewing sitesite of of went to to see see the theThree ThreeGorges GorgesDam. Dam.From From best viewing the lower than thethe toptop of of the Dam Dam we we were werehigher higherthan thanthe theriver, river,but but lower than the allall 2.32.3 kilometres of it. the dam. dam. ItItlooked lookedabsolutely absolutelyamazing, amazing, kilometres of it.
Chengdu After a late arrival last night, we had a fairly early start this morning as we were going to see the famous pandas. There are 195 pandas in the centre at present – they breed them and Chengdu After a late arrival night, There we hadare a fairly early start then set some of the free into last the wild. always babies this born morning we were goingthat to see famous pandas.old. There being andas there are three are the under two weeks The are 195 the centre present – they breed them and morning is pandas the bestin time to seeatthe pandas at their most active. thenofset some of busy the free into thethe wild. Therefor are always babiesI Many them were stripping bamboo their breakfast. being bornspent and there aremore threehours that are under two weeks The could have many just looking at the old. pandas morning is the best time to see the pandas at their most active. going about their daily business, they are mesmerising. Many of them were busy stripping the bamboo for their breakfast. I could have spent many more hours just looking at the pandas going about their daily business, they are mesmerising.
I will actually start today’s blog at around 11pm last night. About 100 miles from Chengdu there an earthquake at night. aroundAbout 6 on I will actually start today’s blogwas at around 11pm last the100 Richter scale, which shook our hotel and lots of others for miles from Chengdu there was an earthquake at around 6 on several miles around. We shook were on tenth andothers the bed the Richter scale, which ourthe hotel andfloor, lots of for and walls miles shookaround. quite violently – but andbed we several We were on nothing the tenthcame floor,down and the were quite safe.quite I say they shook violently – Paul woke andallwalls shook violently – but quite nothing came down and we mewere up to he Ithought had been an earthquake. all say quitethat safe. say theythere shook quite violently – Paul wokeI slept through it all…… mequite up topeacefully say that he thought there had been an earthquake. I slept quite peacefully After breakfast we werethrough taken ittoall…… the railway station for our bullet train to breakfast Xi’an. Our on this CRH trainstation was just overbullet four After wejourney were taken to the railway for our train and to Xi’an. Our journey on this train go was justinover four hours, we settled in to watch theCRH scenery past our very hours, andseats. we settled in to watch the scenery go past in our very comfortable comfortable seats.
Xi’an the Xi’anIt Itwas wastime timetotovisit visitthe theTerracotta Terracotta Warriors. Warriors. None None of the warriors wereintact intactwhen whenthey theywere werefound. found. AA farmer farmer that found warriors were found them 1974,when whenhehewas waslooking looking for for water, water, still still lives in the them in in1974, the village next door.They Theyhad hadbeen beenburied buriedfor for2200 2200 years. years. The front village next door. front part wasalmost almostfull, full,with withpainstakingly painstakingly restored restored soldiers soldiers part of of thethe pitpit was stood battle formationthat thatthey theywere werein, in,all all those those years years ago. stood in in thethe battle formation ago.
Beijing A start this morning at 9.00am from the hotel, with Laura our guide, to make our way to Tiananmen Square. Chairman Mao is laying “in state” in a mausoleum in the middle of the square. We Beijing thistomorning 9.00am from the hotel, with he Laura decidedAtostart queue go andat have a look at him. So there was – our guide, makebehind our way to Tiananmen Square. Chairman lying on atotable, glass, for all to see. I must admit, Mao if I had is state” in a mausoleum in athe middlehead. of the Itsquare. We tolaying guess“inI would have said it was plastic did look a bit decided to queueout to go have a lookmovie, at him.but So Ithere he was like something of and an old horror suppose he –has lying a table, behind see. “pickled” I must admit, if Ithen had he beenon dead since 1976glass, so if for he all hasto been since to guess I would have said it was a plastic head. It did look a bit probably will end up looking a bit plasticky. like something out of an old horror movie, but I suppose he has We then The City. “pickled” With thousands of he other been deadwent sinceinto 1976 soForbidden if he has been since then probably up looking a bitvisit plasticky. people. will Up end to 80,000 people here a day – we are in relatively low then season according to LauraCity. thereWith wasthousands hardly anyone there! We wentsointo The Forbidden of other The main thoroughfare was fairly packed, which is where most people. Up to 80,000 people visit here a day – we are in relatively of the season tour groups go. If you veer off to the to anyone see some of the low so according to Laura there wassides hardly there! other buildings there aren’t so many people there. The main thoroughfare was fairly packed, which is where most of the tour groups go. If you veer off to the sides to see some of the other buildings there aren’t so many people there.
Our last day in China – and it should be a good one. This is the one last thatday we inhave been waiting for –bea ahike along Great Our China – and it should good one. the This is theWall which a half hours Wealong arrived Jinshanling one thatwas we one haveand been waiting for away. – a hike the at Great Wall after travelling north out hours of Beijing. the lastattwo years, this which was one and a half away.Over We arrived Jinshanling area travelling has beennorth completely renovated everything is verythis new. after out of Beijing. Oversothe last two years, No queues, nocompletely umbrellas renovated just peacesoand quiet. After a cable area has been everything is very new. car ridequeues, and short walk we were not disappointed. The awall stretched No no umbrellas just peace and quiet. After cable car as far the walk eye we could see both directions. It made its way ride andas short were notindisappointed. The wall stretched along top eye of the mountain with the watch towers jutting as far the as the could see in range both directions. It made its way along the top the mountain withhad the itwatch towers jutting out every fewofhundred yards.range And we virtually to ourselves. out every few hundred yards. And we had it virtually to ourselves. Absolutely Incredible! Absolutely Incredible!
AA lovely lovely holiday. certainly lovelyend endtotoaalovely lovelyday dayand anda a lovely holiday.I can I can certainly recommend in in thisthis recommend China China – –there thereis issomething somethingforforeveryone everyone wonderful wonderfulcountry. country. (For gogo toto our website blog page) (ForBridget’s Bridget’sfull fullreport reportplease please our website blog page)
SPOTLIGHT ON…
Hayley Chambers and the Buntingford Team
Sarah Yandell, Manager
Sarah Yandell joined Travel Stop in Hayley Chambers, Manager November as the Manager of our Hadleigh
Hayley heads our team, having Chambers worked in the travel up industry Buntingford for more than 30team, years.joining Travel Stop at the beginning of 2019.
She started her career in hotel sales before the travelwhich industry thenHaving movingworked to tourinoperating tooksince her 2007 in world a variety of customer facing roles around the sourcing accommodation. including Trailfinders, Hayley manages the
Afterrelatively taking a new career team break to a in complete our only Master of Business Hertfordshire shop. Administration (MBA) degree, she has for a rail holiday Her travels tookworked her to Australia where she company, Counsellor more stayed as fora Travel three years – herand, favourite recently, forinathe Scandinavian specialist tour country world. She lived in Sydney operator. role enabled herexploring to witness for twoThis years, spent one year the the East Northern try out on snowmobiling CoastLights, and working a Banana andreturned husky mushing. Farm. She has since to Australia for holidays including touring the West Coast in a motorhome. Her favourite destinations are Italy, South Africa and Australia and is planning to revisit Japan in 2021 with her work family, having Hayley has also been involved in voluntary in various locations in the world on Whale & Dolphin research projects previously visited Tokyo. including the Azores, Hawaii, Scotland & Australia. She even
Not spent onlyfiveis weeks her inlistGranof Canaria destinations extremely counting visited scales on geckos. comprehensive, shehave is also to crew a yacht. has Hayley’s travels takenqualified her around the world, and She her latest sailed in Kefalonia and more recently discovered the beautiful trip was to Calgary. coast and islands of Croatia. “Known for its western hospitality, chef-driven cuisine, classic and
So, quirky does an itinerary include the Northern Lights appeal? And theatre andtolively music events and outdoor festivals, are Calgary you aware of just how many available? is a vibrant city centred on four options UNESCOare World Heritage
With the Rockies as the backdrop, this cosmopolitan city is “TheSites. Arctic adventure playground, which stretches from Norway’s the gateway to the Alberta Rockies. Russian border westwards to Greenland offers a wealth of exciting Calgary isFor bestsome, knownit for the opportunity annual Stampede, otherwise experiences. is the to spend a nightknown in an ’Greatest Outdoor Show in the World’, eachthem; year, for for ice as or the snow hotel or an aurora dome which when inspires ten days, Calgary the holdssearch this spectacular is the largest others, it’s simply for the event. auroraThis borealis which rodeothe in the world and cowboys and girlswilderness. from acrossAnd the some world provides inspiration to visit this beautiful descend to battle for the top rodeo honours. just want to experience the adventure of snowmobiling, reindeer Professional cowboys compete in atomultitude eventswildlife including sledding or husky mushing; or want see the ofunique of riding,- calf roping, steer eagles wrestlingand andpolar barrelbears. racing.Whatever However this bull region seals, whales, the an highlight eventis is the world-famous chuck by wagon yourperhaps desire, it’s area which readily available to explore air, which take place each evening followed by a 2-hour landraces or sea.” Grandstand Show where you will be dazzled by the lavishly Draw from Sarah’s first-hand experience of this area the world produced and choreographed non-stop musical varietyofgrandstand and show.” call in to discuss your plans. Let her make suggestions and
recommend some itineraries for you so that you can get the most If your proposed trip to Canada is planned for around these dates, out of your planned trip.
let us factor this extravaganza into your itinerary to enhance your overall Canadian adventure. Hayley will share with you her personal experiences to ensure that you get the very most out of your trip.
Karin Henry
Karin has been with Travel Stop since leaving Thomas Cook in 2013. She loves travelling and has been to many Lorna has been at ourdestinations Buntingford around office the world and enjoys sharing first-hand knowledge with her since it opened in July 2018her and has been an integral part of the development customers.
Lorna Rome
and growth of our Hertfordshire office.
In Europe she particularly likes Italy and
After having spent twelve years with having been twice in the Greek islands, Premier Travel beforethehaving family,of years, as well as last acouple she has enjoyed the returnand to Spain. the Morocco industry. Since visitor joiningtoTravel Stop she has been Lorna has been a regular the on aCaribbean river cruise and cruised for several years. on the Celebrity Edge, and visited
Grenada, India, Tanzania, Zanzibar, Mexico, Majorca and, most recently, the Maldives.
“The Maldives has a hot, tropical climate with sunshine all year round. The most popular months to visit are between November and year Aprilwas when days are with very little wind. The flying This no the exception but, drier instead of as a family holiday, was timeguest fromofLondon to Male directand is just over ten hours and is an the Caribtours to Grenada St. Lucia. ideal destination be combined with Abuwith Dhabi, Dubai,view Sri Lanka “Who would like totostay in a resort property the iconic of or India. The cobalt ocean, azure coral reefs and both the Piti and Gros Piton mountains floating uponturquoise the lagoons offer variety water based adventure. Diving Caribbean Sea?aWould youoflike to stay in a room with only three and snorkelling popular wayboth to pass theand blissful days. Influenced walls so thatare youa experience nature the real beauty of by Sri you Lankan Keralan cuisine, Maldives spicy, where are? and And yes, the fourth wallfood reallyinisthe absent, lettingisthe flavoursome andstriking not to be missed.” outside in! The and contemporary Jade Mountain, with
both its unique is room aspects andand unsurpassed location, is just Island-hopping recommended easily arranged. Karin will be one strikingly different property we can recommend from first-hand happy to make suggestions for that perfect itinerary. experience.”
Camilla Packard
To make that special holiday even more special, please call and ask for our recommendations - we have plenty up our sleeves!
Camilla has been with Travel Stop for
Isobel Lattathree years, having moved to the Hadleigh office from Claydon at the beginning of
After finishing her A-Levels, and taking a 2019. Her extensive knowledge of Florida gap year to solo-backpack around South and, in particular, Disney, is second to East Asia, Isobel came back with the none.bug. Having now been eight times in travel
recent years (twice in both 2018 and 2019)
She first ideal apprentice we have at to sheisisthethe person with had whom Travel for plans. several years. With a discussStop Disney significant improvement in the training “Florida isavailable, the number one holiday programme and the enthusiasm destination in the the world Isobel displayed sinceWorld. joiningFrom us in March class she themeis parks 2019, going and fromattractions strength to to the strength. huge array of shopping and dining on offer, there truly is
something for everyone. also huge visit part of Florida which HerThere first iseducational was to the many tourists (even theislands ones who return year year) yet to of Guernsey and on Herm, twohave of the discover.Islands Despite what may the think, is more Florida Channel which lie you between UK there and Fance and to which than the bustling of Orlando. alsowith offers have a unique andtheme variedparks heritage and thatThe are state packed award winning beaches, beautiful wildlife and year round fascinating landmarks. sunshine.” “Travel Stop’s first exclusive departure took place in 2019 to Jersey. In October, a group of 23 departed a 4-night break would to For first-hand advice on your next Disneyforholiday, Camilla the island for the annual Tennerfest. be delighted to help.
Emma Price
The Tennerfest is the Channel Islands' famous fixed price food promotion. For six weeks from the 1st October, local restaurants across Jersey and Guernsey are encouraged to create special, allEmma joined Stop upon herat return inclusive menus that provide diners withTravel fixed prices starting a to restaurateurs the UK from Australia, “tenner”. The initiative gives a platform fromhaving which tolived there 15 years. Her career, before promote their businesses andforrestaurant-goers accessboth to the leaving Australiaprices. and whilst living finest food the islands have to offer for at affordable
there, has always been and, in the travel Our exclusive departure was a tremendous success due to Emma exclusive has travelled popular demand, we haveindustry. arranged another Travel Stopquite extensively, herto Guernsey, latest trips being to departure in 2020. This 5-night break is departing and Thailand. 26th June from Stansted Greece and includes a day trip to Herm and an afternoon tea. Both couples and solo arecountry extremely “Thailand is antravellers enchanting with a welcome. rich cultural tradition, where the people We can also offer Channel Island Hopping so, if you are warm and friendly andhave the already scenery is visited the main islands ofoften Jerseybreathtaking. or Guernsey previously, can of This is awe land also arrange stays tantalising on the lesser visitedpristine islands of Alderney, ancient temples, cuisine, beaches andHerm tropical and Sark.” From elephant camps to world class resorts, Thailand rainforests.
hasfurther something for everyone. Despitedeparture, the fact or that For information on our exclusive anyThailand other trip is a huge the majority of do visitors continue to flock to the same to the country, Channel Islands, please contact us.
handful of places; it’s as if all visitors to France decide to stick to
The teams in all four offices will be able to assist you with your Paris plans and SttoTropez.” travel any of the destinations mentioned.
We believe that you’ll have a more enriching and enjoyable experience in Thailand if you do something a little bit different. At Travel Stop, we love making suggestions and helping plan itineraries - it is what we do best!
GUERNSEY
By Isobel Latta
Day 11 On On my my first first educational educational trip Day trip with with Travel Travel Stop StopI Ihad hadthe the pleasure of of visiting visiting the the beautiful beautiful Channel pleasure Channel Island Island ofofGuernsey. Guernsey.I I waslucky luckyenough enough to to stay stay in in the was the Duke Duke of ofRichmond Richmondhotel, hotel,just justa a1010minute walk uphill from St Peter’s Port. It was a brilliant, minute walk uphill from St Peter’s Port. It was a brilliant,quirky quirky hotel with excellent staff who welcomed us with open arms. Stylish hotel with excellent staff who welcomed us with open arms. Stylish and contemporary, the lobby featured various animal print and contemporary, the lobby featured various animal print upholstery among mirrored walls and chequered flooring. Our upholstery mirrored chequered flooring. the Our room had aamong magnificent view walls of the and terrace, which overlooked room had a magnificent view of the terrace, which overlooked the pool below. Our first stop took us to the most mesmerising pool below. Our first Chapel’. stop took us to the most mesmerising construction, the ‘Little construction, the ‘Little Chapel’. Made out of colourful Made outchina of colourful broken and broken china unique and pebbles, this pebbles, place almost this had a unique fairyplacefeel almost fairytale to ithad asa you tale feel to it as its you wandered through wandered through extraordinary arches andits candle-lit halls. arches The Little extraordinary and Chapel washalls. a work art candle-lit Theof Little and labour of love builtofbyart Chapel was a work Brother Deodat. Hisbuilt planby and labour of love was to create a miniature Brother Deodat. His plan version of thea miniature famous was to create grotto at versionand of basilica the famous Lourdes France.at grotto andin basilica Measuring feet Lourdes a intiny 9France. by 4.5 feet wide, it is Measuring a tiny 9 feet definitely an ‘Instagramby 4.5 feet wide, it is worthy’ spot! You cannot definitely an ‘Instagrammiss this on a visit to worthy’ spot! You cannot Guernsey. miss this on a visit to Guernsey. Day 2 The following day, the group took a ferry over to the neighbouring island of Herm. Beware, although the journey is only Day 2 The following day,get thequite group took We a ferry overofftothe the around 20 minutes, it can choppy! stepped neighbouring Beware, although thewhich journey is only boat onto theisland island of to Herm. see The White House Hotel is visible around 20 minutes, it can get around quite choppy! Weminutes, steppedI off the from Guernsey. After walking for a few soon boat ontoaware the island to seewere The no White HotelWhat whichreplaced is visible became that there carsHouse to be seen. from Guernsey. After walking around for aoffew soon the familiar rumble of traffic was the sound the minutes, ocean - itI was became aware thatlined therewith were no cars to be sand seen.with What replaced bliss! Herm was cream-coloured turquoise blue water rumble - it was of truly beautiful. There were on the- other the familiar traffic was the sound of cliffs the ocean it was side of the island, whichwith was cream-coloured where the puffinssand lived. with Sadlyturquoise we did bliss! Herm was lined not have seetruly them, but you can kayak or take boat in blue watertime - it to was beautiful. There were cliffsaon thetripother order doisland, so. side of to the which was where the puffins lived. Sadly we did not have time to see them, but you can kayak or take a boat trip in order to do so.
Upon back at at St St Peter Port, we we had had some free free time time to to Uponarriving arriving back Peter Port, some explore thethe shops before going back to the hotelhotel to get for for explore shops before going back to the to ready get ready dinner. The OldOld Quarter, as as it isitcalled, resembled ‘The‘The Lanes’ in in dinner. The Quarter, is called, resembled Lanes’ Brighton somewhat, with small boutique and souvenir shops to Brighton somewhat, with small boutique and souvenir shops to luxury chocolatiers lining the streets. That evening we went for luxury chocolatiers lining the streets. That evening we went for dinner at the Crows Nest, which is situated directly on the harbour. dinner at the Crows Nest, which is situated directly on the harbour. The view was great and the food was very tasty. Following this we The view was agreat theand foodcocktail was very this we sampled ‘RED’, grill and house bartasty. whichFollowing is definitely sampled ‘RED’, a grill house and cocktail bar which is definitely worth a visit! worth a visit!
Day 3 Our final day, both halves of our group swapped hotels for breakfast and a site inspection. We were welcomed into the Old Day 3 Our final day, both halves of our group with swapped hotels for Government House, a must-see building stunning breakfast and a site inspection. We were welcomed into the architecture. Every hallway had a ‘grand’ feel to it, each room as Old Government House, a must-see building tour, with stunning elegant as the next. Afterwards we had a walking learning architecture. had by a ‘grand’ feel toinit,the each room as about GuernseyEvery and itshallway occupation the Germans second elegant the next. we hadGerman a walking tour, learning world war.asThere is aAfterwards well preserved underground about Guernsey and signs its occupation by the on Germans in as thewell second Hospital, German road visible, painted buildings war. There is the a well asworld bunkers dotted around island.preserved German underground Hospital, German road signs visible, painted on buildings as well as bunkers dotted around the island.
Although Guernsey is part of the British Isles, it is not actually part of the UK. I would hugely recommend a visit to anyone who is thinking about it. If you like to know more about Guernsey or Herm Although is part of theStop, British Isles, it is not actually part please call inGuernsey and see me at Travel Buntingford. of the UK. I would hugely recommend a visit to anyone who is (For Isobel’s full report please go to our website blog page) thinking about it. If you like to know more about Guernsey or Herm please call in and see me at Travel Stop, Buntingford.
(For Isobel’s full report please go to our website blog page)
Magic in the Maldives Experience a world of opulent overwater villas, magical marine life and bespoke luxury touches in the Maldives, the perfect option for a honeymoon retreat or special occasion.
J OA L I M A L D I V E S An eco-chic paradise in the heart of the Raa Atoll, this enchanting property combines traditional luxury with modern comforts. Choose from a selection of stylish accommodations, with a private pool and elegant décor in every villa. Wellness takes centre stage at Joali Spa by Espa, offering eight treatment rooms and a yoga pavilion. Superlative service is guaranteed with a dedicated butler tending to your every need, from private in-villa check-in to cocktails on the beach. Connect with your creative side at the Art Studio & Gallery, learn more about native flora and fauna at the Flower Garden or channel your inner adventurer and explore local islands on a day trip.
EMERALD MALDIVES R E S O R T & S PA All Inclusive excellence awaits at this recently-opened property, taking luxury island living to a new level. A proud member of The Leading Hotels of the World, expect decadent dining, spa sensations and A-list accommodation. Your taste buds are in for a treat with the Deluxe All Inclusive dining plan which includes top-shelf drinks, Champagne by the glass and a number of à la carte eateries. Discover something to keep you entertained around the clock, from deep sea diving experiences to serene spa treatments. There’s also a focus on local conservation and preservation, with a resident marine biologist.
Arabia | Indian Ocean | Far East | India | Sri Lanka | Australasia
VA R U BY ATM O S P H E R E
C O N S TA N C E M O O F U S H I
A new addition to the esteemed Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts, VARU by Atmosphere offers guests a ‘Naturally Maldivian’ experience, incorporating aspects of local culture, melded together with tropical vibes. The VARU Plan™ guarantees guests an exceptional All Inclusive option, including speciality dining, premium spirits and an in-room minibar replenished daily. The resort also offers a plethora of non-motorised watersports, including windsurfing, catamarans, canoeing and snorkelling. Take some time out at the spa, with at least one complimentary treatment per stay or head to the Sports & Recreation Centre, complete with a gym and flood-lit tennis court.
Get the VIP treatment from the moment you arrive at this multi award-winning resort, with unparalleled service, luxurious accommodations and one of the best All Inclusive offerings in the Maldives. Toast your trip and choose from a collection of 120 wines on offer, with insightful tips from the resident sommelier. A haven for marine enthusiasts, the property boasts 32 nearby dive sites to explore, bursting with colourful corals home to turtles, stingrays, manta rays and reef sharks. Romantic moments are guaranteed with a range of intimate dining options, from a sunset cruise on a traditional dhoni, breakfast on the beach or dinner under the stars.
USA
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Cruise
THE MALDIVES
By Karin Henry
Day 1 The approach to Male airport offered amazing views of the turquoise islands down below us and I was glad of my window seat as more and more islands came into view below us. On Daywe 1 The Male airport offered amazing viewsto of the the arrival wereapproach taken totoour 45-minute speedboat transfer turquoise islands down below us and I was glad of my window OBLU by Atmosphere on Helengeli Island. seat as more and more islands came into view below us. On arrival we were taken to our 45-minute speedboat transfer to the OBLU by Atmosphere on Helengeli Island.
Day 5 This morning a snorkelling trip by boat was arranged for us , then back for lunch at The Spice buffet restaurant. This evening we were taken on a sunset cruise which is offered to guests as Day of 5 This morning a snorkelling part the all-inclusive package. trip by boat was arranged for us , then back for lunch at The Spice buffet restaurant. This evening we were taken on a sunset cruise which is offered to guests as part of the all-inclusive package.
This Island is just how I imagined the Maldives to be, small, white powder sandy beach and turquoise sea. Our accommodation here Island is just how imagined the Maldives to be, small,decks white wasThis in beach villas with Iopen air bathrooms and outdoor powder sandyonto beach and turquoise sea. accommodation here leading straight the beach. They areOur very comfortable with wasbright in beach villas This with open bathrooms outdoor lovely interiors. islandairhas its own and exotic housedecks reef straight onto thesharks, beach. lobsters They areand verysea comfortable withleading resident silver-tipped turtles sowith is lovely bright interiors. This island has itshere own are exotic house reef ideal for diving and snorkelling. Evenings very low key sharks, lobsters seaand turtles so is andwith we resident enjoyed silver-tipped dinner at ‘Spice’ followed by and drinks cocktails idealbar. for This divingisland and snorkelling. Evenings herethose are very low key in the suits couples best and looking for and we enjoyed dinner at ‘Spice’ followed by drinks and cocktails excellent diving and snorkelling. A real desert island getaway. in the bar. This island suits couples best and those looking for excellent diving and snorkelling. A real desert island getaway.
Day 6 After breakfast we took a seaplane back to Male and then a speedboat to Ozen by Atmosphere, Maadhoo Island for our final 2 Day 6 After we tookdeluxe a seaplane back Male and then a nights. Thisbreakfast is the 5-star island in tothe collection and speedboatthe to Ozen by Atmosphere, for our final 2 therefore speedboat was more Maadhoo luxurious Island with very comfortable nights. This the bumpy. 5-star deluxe islandwe in were the collection seating and isless On arrival all givenand foot therefore the was before more luxurious with very comfortable massages byspeedboat the spa team having lunch at The Palm’s allseating and less bumpy. On delicious arrival we were alllunch givenwefoot day dining restaurant, another meal. After were massages by the spa at The Palm’s alltaken by buggies on team a tourbefore of thehaving islandlunch and its accommodation. day dining restaurant, anotherlarge delicious meal. After lunch were This included the beautiful family private water we villa, The taken by buggies on a tour of the island and its accommodation. Residence at Ozen, where many rich and famous have stayed. This included the beautiful large family private water villa, The This is opposite the underwater ‘M6m’. have The restaurant Residence at Ozen, where manyrestaurant rich and famous stayed. has windows to the sea and its marine life and you can This all-round is opposite the underwater restaurant ‘M6m’. The restaurant enjoy steak and lobster specialities. This island has the wow factor has all-round windows to the sea and its marine life and you can with sand This beaches very enjoybeautiful steak andpowder lobster white specialities. islandand has athe wowupmarket factor feel. with beautiful powder white sand beaches and a very upmarket feel.
Day 2 & 3 After a smooth speedboat transfer we arrived at OBLU Dayat2 Sangeli & 3 AfterIsland. a smooth speedboat transferawe arrived OBLU Select Lunch was followed tour of theat island Select at The Sangeli Island. Lunch followed a tour of the island by buggies. over-water villas, was beachside and family villas are byabuggies. The over-water villas, beachside and soft family villas are all of high standard. They have bright décor and furnishings a high standard. They have bright décor and which soft furnishings andalla ofhuge outdoor bathroom in the beach villas I loved! and a huge outdoor bathroom in the beach villas which I loved! The island is great for families with the 2-bedroom beach villas The island is great for families with the 2-bedroom beach villas offering ample space for the whole family. Children are catered for offering ample space for the whole family. Children are catered for in ain well-equipped kids club. a well-equipped kids club.Equally Equallyit itisisideal idealfor forcouples couples and and honeymooners with its One Banyan adults-only enclave honeymooners with its One Banyan adults-only enclave housing housing Elena Spa, an an adult-only pool and two Elena Spa, adult-only pool and twofine finedining diningrestaurants. restaurants. DayDay 4 Today was 4 Today wasto tobebemymyfirst firstexperience experience ofof travelling travelling by by seaplane. After a speedboat transfer seaplane. After a speedboat transferback backtotoMale Malewe wechecked checked in in for for ourour flight to to Atmosphere Kanifushi flight Atmosphere Kanifushi– –Lhaviyani LhaviyaniAtoll, Atoll, Northern Northern Atolls. TheThe firstfirst thing I noticed, apart Atolls. thing I noticed, apartfrom fromthe thepristine pristinewhite white sand sand beaches, is is how green beaches, how greenthetheisland islandisiswith withlots lots ofof lush lush tropical tropical vegetation within which thethe beach vegetation within which beachvillas villasare arehidden, hidden,giving givingthem them aa veryvery private feel. The accommodation private feel. The accommodationisisallallvillas, villas,offering offering direct direct access beach.There Thereare are2 2bedroomed bedroomed family family villas villas access to to thethebeach. available making it suitable familiesand andcouples. couples.At At 5pm 5pm the the available making it suitable forforfamilies traditional feeding stingrays tookplace placeatatthe thebeach beachand and we we traditional feeding of of thethe stingrays took to see them close they cameinto intothe theshore. shore. got got to see them up up close asas they came
Day 7 & 8 Today there was snorkelling or free time to relax and Day 7the & beach 8 Today there was snorkelling free time to relax enjoy and swimming of which or I chose the latter. A and few of enjoy the beach and swimming of which I chose the latter. A few of us went on a short trip on the island’s submarine, another new us went on a short trip on the island’s submarine, another new experience for me. Before dinner this evening we went on the experience for me. Before dinner this evening we went on the traditional Maldivianstyle stylefishing fishingtrip. trip.Several Severalfish fish were caught, traditional Maldivian were caught, notnot by me but one of our group did manage a catch. After dinner by me but one of our group did manage a catch. After dinner wewe enjoyed drinks at at the the‘Gin ‘GinisisIn’ In’bar. bar. enjoyed drinks After breakfast our our final final day day was was spent spentenjoying enjoyingthetheIsland’s Island’s After breakfast beaches and water water sports sportsbefore beforetaking takingour ourspeed speedboat boat transfer beaches and transfer back Male for for our our homebound homeboundflight flightwith withTurkish TurkishAirlines. Airlines. back to to Male In In summary there isis aa Maldivian MaldivianIsland Islandtotosuit suitall,all,couples, couples, families summary there families and There are are small small desert desertisland islandgetaways getawaysor ormore more and singles. singles. There sophisticated resort style styleislands, islands,whichever whicheveryou youchoose choose they sophisticated resort they areare all beautiful! Thank Thankyou youtotoIf IfOnly Onlyand andAtmosphere Atmosphere all absolutely absolutely beautiful! forfor giving me this giving this wonderful wonderfulopportunity. opportunity. (For Karin’s Karin’s full blog page) (For full report reportplease pleasego gototoour ourwebsite website blog page)
THE CELEBRITY EDGE What an awesome sight! I feel that the Celebrity Edge can’t fail to impress even those to What cruising an awesome sight! I feel whom doesn’t usually that the This Celebrity can’t appeal. ship Edge is being fail to aimpress those to called ‘Gameeven Changer’ – whom doesn’t usually let’s findcruising out why! appeal. This ship is being Having called abeen ‘Gameallocated Changer’ an – Infinite Balcony let’s find out why!Cabin, I will explain the difference from a Having been allocated an traditional balcony cabin and, Infinite Balcony Cabin, I will whilst some people will like explain the difference from a them, others will prefer the traditional balcony cabin and, original style. people It has will a very whilst some like large them,window others that will opens prefer half the way to down original style. with It hasa asitting very area can that be closed off largethat window opens half with doors. the way bi-fold to down with But a sitting more unusual part is that the blind is area on thethat outer so it off is canwindow, be closed either all dark or all light. with bi-fold doors. But the more unusual part is that the blind is on the outer window, so it is either all dark or all light.
The outside area includes a huge swimming pool with plenty of sun-loungers directions. It has a great pool atmosphere here; The outsidefacing area all includes a huge swimming with plenty of thesun-loungers roof top terrace and are really modern again a really facing all bar directions. It has a greatand atmosphere here; nice place some the roof to topspend terrace andtime. bar are really modern and again a really nice place to spend some time. restaurants - a new concept for There is not one, but four main Celebrity - and, depending yourrestaurants choice of -either or late There is not one, but fouron main a newearly concept for Celebrity and,be depending on ayour choice of eitheranearly or late dining, you - will allocated table in either American dining, you will Italian be allocated a table in All either restaurant, French, or Mediterranean. four an will American have the restaurant, French, Italian or of Mediterranean. four will have the same menu with the exception three choicesAll exclusively for that same menu with theIfexception three choices for can that particular restaurant. you haveofchosen ‘Selectexclusively Dining’, you particular you have chosen ‘Select you can choose whichrestaurant. restaurantIf to dine in each night for noDining’, extra charge. choose which restaurant to dine in each night for no extra charge. In the evenings, there are many things to do with much variety In the shows, evenings, there are many things to do with much variety including dancing, acrobatics and bars to investigate. including shows, dancing, acrobatics and bars to investigate.
By Sonia Reece & Hayley Chambers Sonia’s Top Tips Cabins Having seen an array of cabins which were available to view, from Sonia’s Top Cabin Tips grades up to the Iconic Suite, I feel that the the Inside Cabins cabins are a good size and spacious. My favourites however were Having seen an of cabins available to view, from undoubtedly thearray Edge Suiteswhich with were the split-level and their own the Inside Cabin grades up to the Iconic Suite, I feel that the plunge pool. cabins are a good size and spacious. My favourites however were My top tips for cabinswith would undoubtedly theselecting Edge Suites thebe:split-level and their own plunge pool. For a traditional balcony choose a Sunset Veranda at the rear of the top shiptips for selecting cabins would be:My Try atotraditional avoid a cabin near the Magic Carpet - I would For balcony choose a Sunset Veranda at thechoose rear ofthe other side of the ship the ship Try to avoid cabin near the Magic - I would theget Some of theatop deck cabins have Carpet an overhang andchoose wouldn’t other of the so ship muchside sunshine this may suit some people and not others. Some of the thinks top deck have an the overhang andEdge:wouldn’t get Why Hayley youcabins should go on Celebrity much sunshine so this may suit some people and not others. The majority of outside state rooms Why Hayley thinks you should go on the Edge:- Veranda” have theCelebrity new “Infinite where with the touch a button your The majority of outsideofstate rooms large the window in to a have new opens “Infinite up Veranda” balcony Foryour those where with in theyour touchroom. of a button looking for an opens upgraded large window up cabin, in to there a balcony in your exceptional room. For those are some suites; looking for something an upgraded certainly to cabin, suit a there diverse are exceptional suites; rangesome of tastes. certainly something to suit a diverse Thereof are a massive 29 restaurants range tastes. & bars to choose from serving some There are afood massive 29 restaurants amazing and drink. The Edge &seems bars to to choose from serving be breaking newsome ground amazing food drink. The Edge with theirand innovative Eden seems to be breaking Restaurant, lounge &new barground with an with their innovative open-air kitchen and menu Eden inspired Restaurant, lounge & bar with an by nature. As well as the fantastic open-air kitchen and menu inspired array of eateries, there is aby very wide range facilities onboard nature. As wellofas the fantastic including an excellent gym, walking track, two swimming pools, array of eateries, there is a very wide range of facilities onboardhot tubs & a state-of-the-art spa. including an excellent gym, walking track, two swimming pools, hot tubs & a state-of-the-art spa. The Magic Carpet is a revolutionary feature on the Celebrity Edge; a suspended platform that floats above 13 storeys high. The Magic Carpet is a revolutionary featurethe on sea, the Celebrity Edge; The Magic Carpet is used as a new way embark/disembark a suspended platform that floats above thetosea, 13 storeys high.the ship Magic as wellCarpet as an isexclusive bar area. The used as restaurant a new way and to embark/disembark the ship as well as an exclusive restaurant and bar area. The performances in the theatre are excellent with some of the best performances sound and lighting on board any cruise The in the theatre are excellent withship. some There of the is everything board from on short quizzes the Grand best soundon and lighting board any in cruise ship. Plaza Thereduring is everything on board from short quizzes in in thethe Grand Plaza during the day to the spectacular performances evening. the day to the spectacular performances in the evening. The ship is sleek with a trendy design and incredible art work The ship is sleek withup a to trendy and incredible art this work throughout. Keeping date design with the modern world, ship throughout. Keeping uptoto the dateexisting with thecruising modern market. world, this offers something new It ship is also offers new to the existing cruising It is also perfectsomething to attract first-time cruisers who would market. not be disappointed perfect to attract first-time cruisers who would not be disappointed with what the ship has to offer. with what the ship has to offer.
2020-22 EARLYBIRD FARES Out Now
FREE
PRIVATE DOOR-TO-DOOR CHAUFFEUR TRANSFERS
THE NEW BENCHMARK IN ULTRA-LUXURY CRUISING The next generation of ocean cruising has arrived on board The World’s First Discovery Yacht™. With Scenic Eclipse now sailing her much anticipated inaugural season, luxury travel is being taken to extraordinary new levels – setting new standards in exploration, discovery and truly all-inclusive luxury. Let Scenic Eclipse take you to the Earth’s most mysterious and mythical stretches. Our 6-star ocean cruises in Antarctica will immerse you in lands of pristine beauty and breath-taking wildlife. Go beneath the surface with a once-in-a-lifetime submarine tour, or navigate the spectacular waterways of Paradise Bay via our fleet of sea-ready Zodiacs. Antarctica is awash with incredible scenery and unique wildlife, and Scenic Eclipse will take you closer than ever before. Book an Antarctica cruise and witness fur seals and King penguins in their natural habitat from the safety of our on board submarine^. Take our kayaks for a paddle around blue-tinged icebergs as part of Scenic Freechoice and get the chance to observe minke, humpback and killer whales (orcas) up close during our Antarctica in Depth itinerary.
ANTARCTICA IN DEPTH
Buenos Aires 1
Ushuaia
Argentina
11
South Shetland Islands South Orkney Islands
Ushuaia > Ushuaia Port Lockroy
Antarctic Peninsula Weddell Sea
Lemaire Channel
Return flights from UK airports Pre/post-cruise hotel stay Spacious all-verandah suite accommodation Butler service for every guest and 1:1 staff-to-guest ratio Up to 10 on board dining experiences Unlimited complimentary beverages* Extensive choice of all-inclusive shore excursions Scenic Enrich unique experiences Discovery Team and local experts on board Zodiac, kayak, snorkel and snow-shoe adventures The freedom of our e-bikes
Beagle Channel Drake Passage
Departing Nov 2020 – Feb 2021 & Nov 2021 – Feb 2022
16-day cruise from £10,545PP
1
Truly All-Inclusive Luxury
Antarctic Circle
550m2 Senses Spa, gym, yoga and Pilates studio Indoor and outdoor swimming pools All tipping, transfers and taxes, on board and onshore FREE private door-to-door chauffeur transfers
Terms and Conditions: Prices correct at time of going to print (25 November 2019). Prices advertised are based on two sharing a Verandah Suite paying the Earlybird fare with economy flights departing London Heathrow, subject to availability. Supplements may apply for regional departures. Private door-to-door transfers are complimentary within a 75 mile radius from your home address. For any journey over 75 miles, a £2.00 per mile supplement will be charged. Offers are valid for new bookings only and can be withdrawn at any time. Earlybird Fares are strictly limited.
Scenic Neptune
Discovery Team
On Board Helicopters
Chef’s Table
Scenic Lounge
Gastronomy inspired by the world
Indulgent spaces
Taking care of mind, body and soul
Intimate and luxurious in equal measure, the Discovery Yacht boasts world-class amenities and up to 10 dining experiences, showcasing cuisine from all corners of the world. Enjoy a theatrical Teppanyaki display over an open grill at Teppanyaki @ Koko’s, fine Italian steak and seafood at Elements or all-day casual grazing at Azure Bar & Café. Alternatively, choose to dine in the opulence of your suite.
Unlike many ocean cruisers, there’s plenty of room to roam. Just 114 suites promise a maximum of 228 guests (200 in the Arctic and Antarctica) at any time. From the generous 32 square metre Verandah Suites, to the colossal 195 square metre Owner’s Penthouse Suite, exquisite attention-to-detail, an en-suite bathroom and private verandah come as standard.
The exclusive Senses Spa consists of 550 square metres of pure indulgence, including Scandinavian-inspired temperature-controlled plunge pools, saunas and steam rooms. Stretch your legs in the well-equipped gym, find your centre in the serene surroundings of the yoga and Pilates studio, or take some time in the therapeutic thermal lounges, all at no extra cost.
Culinary direction comes from executive chef Tom Götter, who’ll be overseeing the menu development. You’ll even be able to put your own cooking skills to the test in the bespoke cooking school, Scenic Epicure, where you’ll learn to create authentic, regional recipes, taking ingredients from the hydroponic herb garden.
Executive Chef Tom Götter
Not forgetting a complimentary mini-bar – restocked daily – and a butler service for every guest. Making your suite the perfect retreat to retire to after a day of adventure.
Deluxe Verandah Suite
Awe-inspiring and unlike anything currently available, Scenic Eclipse will introduce you to parts of the world you never thought you’d be fortunate enough to see, on a yacht that heralds an exciting new era in ultra-luxury ocean cruising.
Senses Spa
*All drinks on board are included except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, champagnes and spirits. Offers can be withdrawn at any time. ^Helicopter and submarine activities are weather permitting, may incur additional costs and are subject to availability and regulatory approval. Scenic Tours Pty trading as Scenic. Registered: 05770868
ICELAND
By Anne Fisk
Day 1 My trip commenced from the North Terminal at London Day 1 My trip commenced from the North Terminal at London Gatwick flying with Icelandair. On arrival into Keflavik, after a 3 Gatwick flying with Icelandair. On arrival into Keflavik, after a 3 hour flight, wewe were met and taken hour flight, were met and takentotoour ourprivate privatevehicle vehicle to to visit visit the the famous Blue Lagoon. The journey only takes 20 minutes famous Blue Lagoon. The journey only takes 20 minutes so so itit is good to visit either on the way from, or to Keflavik airport. This is good to visit either on the way from, or to Keflavik airport. This waswas an an amazing experience amazing experience– –sosorelaxing relaxinglounging lounginginin the the huge huge outdoor lagoon filled with geothermal outdoor lagoon filled with geothermalhot hotwater watercontaining containingnatural natural mineral salts, white silica and blue mineral salts, white silica and bluegreen greenalgae. algae.Situated Situatedamidst amidst aa dramatic field of of black lava, temperatures dramatic field black lava, temperaturesaverage averageaarelaxing relaxing 353540 40 degrees centigrade. degrees centigrade.We Wehad hadthe thecomfort comfort package package which which includes a towel, drink and silica mud includes a towel, drink and silica mudface facemask maskand andyou youcan canstay stay for 2 forhours. 2 hours.
Day 2 The following morning after a lovely breakfast at The Alda Daywe2 left Thethe following morning after a lovely breakfast at The Alda Old Harbour on a RIB boat accompanied by a guide. we Unfortunately left the Old Harbour on aAtlantic RIB boat accompanied by a day guide. due to the being too rough that we Unfortunately due to the Atlantic being too rough that day weren’t able to go out far enough to view whales. However we the weren’t able toofgo enough view whales. However thea experience theout RIBfarboat alonetowas quite exhilarating. After experience of the was quiteheli exhilarating. a quick lunch we RIB droveboat overalone to Reykjavik’s base. We After met the quick lunch drove about over to base. We metfrom the team andwe learned theReykjavik’s various heliheli tours they offer, team and learned variousonheli tours they offer, from soaring over the about capital the to landing volcanos and glaciers. We soaring capital landingfive on minute volcanos and glaciers. We were over then the treated to atosample flight over the capital were thenwas treated to a– sample the capital which superb the sunfive wasminute shiningflight andover the views were which was superb – the sun was shining and the views were incredible. incredible. Leaving the heli base we started our drive into the Golden Circle, stopping thebase Thingvillir National lookout point, takingCircle, in the Leaving the at heli we started ourPark drive into the Golden panoramic whilst National our expert guide told uspoint, abouttaking the tectonic stopping at theviews Thingvillir Park lookout in the plates that meet there. Our next hotel, consists of panoramic views whilst our expert guide the toldGrimsborgir us about the tectonic a comfortable collection traditional country lodges plates that meet there. Ourofnext hotel, Scandinavian the Grimsborgir consists of and is perfectly located to access Scandinavian attractions such as Gullfoss, a comfortable collection of traditional country lodges and Thingvellir National It was such after as dinner whilst andGeysir is perfectly located to accessPark. attractions Gullfoss, staying that we National were ablePark. to getIt awas glimpse the Northern Geysir andhere Thingvellir afterofdinner whilst Lightshere – notthat to be staying wemissed! were able to get a glimpse of the Northern Lights – not to be missed!
Day 3 The spouting Strokkur geyser erupts every 6-7 minutes and Day 3 The spouting Strokkur geyser erupts every 6-7 minutes and its white column of boiling water can reach heights of 30 metres! its white column of boiling water can reach heights of 30 metres!
Following this we witnessed the white waters of Gullfoss waterfall Following this we witnessed the white waters of Gullfoss waterfall “Golden Falls”. You could feel the vapours on your face as the “Golden Falls”. You could feel the vapours on your face as the water thundered down a 32 metre drop into an impressive canyon. water thundered down a 32 was metre drop into anof impressive canyon. The Seljalandsfoss waterfall next with 60m thunderous falls The Seljalandsfoss waterfall was next with 60m of thunderous falls and when the conditions permit you can walk behind the waterfall and whenitsthe conditions permit you can walk behind the waterfall and hear roar. and hear its roar.
Day 4 Today we witnessed one of the most beautiful places along the south coast of Iceland – the magnificent glacier lagoon, Day 4 Today we witnessed one of the most beautiful places along Jokulsarlon. Here we saw bright blue and white icebergs floating in the south of iceberg Iceland lagoon, – the magnificent lagoon, the lagoon.coast Another Fjallsarlonm, glacier has floating Jokulsarlon. saw bright white icebergs floating icebergs thatHere breakwe free from the blue edgeand of the Vatnajoukull glacier in the iceberg Fjallsarlonm, floating and lagoon. chunks ofAnother ice wash up on lagoon, Jokulsarlon beach and has sparkle in icebergs that break free known from the of the Vatnajoukull glacier the sun, more famously as edge Diamond beach with its black and chunks of ice wash up on Jokulsarlon beach and sparkle in sands. the sun, more famously known as Diamond beach with its black Day 5 A trek across the Vatnajokull glacier was absolutely sands. breathtaking bringing our trip to an end. I have to say that Iceland Day 5 Aone trek across Vatnajokull was absolutely has been of the most the amazing places I glacier have ever visited and breathtaking our to tripreturn to antoend. I have Iceland somewhere I bringing would love some day to – Isay canthat certainly highly recommend it! most amazing places I have ever visited and has been one of the somewhere would love to return some day blog – I can certainly (For Anne’s Ifull report please go totoour website page) highly recommend it!
(For Anne’s full report please go to our website blog page)
SPOTLIGHT ON…
Anne Fisk and the Claydon Sales Team
Sarah Yandell, Manager Sarah Yandell joined Travel Stop in Anne Fisk, Manager November as the Manager of our Hadleigh
team,Anne having worked theintravel joined TravelinStop 2006 industry and has for more than 30 years. successfully managed the Claydon team many years. In 2019 Travel Stop She for started her career in hotel sales before Claydon were awarded the Best Travel then Agency moving to tour operating which took her East of England which reflects around world sourcing thethe management abilityaccommodation. she displays. AfterAnne’s taking most a career break complete a recent trip totoIceland is just Master Administration (MBA) oneofofBusiness many trips in which she has degree, she has worked for holiday participated and hera rail worldwide company, as a Travel Counsellor more experiences puts her in a very and, favourable recently, Scandinavian specialist tour placefortoa suggest the most accurate operator. This role enabled her the to witness recommendations to make perfect the Northern Lights, try out snowmobiling holiday choices. and husky mushing. Whilst Anne’s Iceland trip was somewhat ‘out of the norm’ with the biking, horse riding with crampons andand ice Herquad favourite destinations areand, Italy,equipped South Africa and Australia the totraversing of a glacier andhaving deep is picks, planning revisit Japan in 2021including with herridges family, crevasses, it just shows what can be arranged for the slightly more previously visited Tokyo. adventurous. After all, it isn’t just the Northern Lights that Iceland Nothasonly is So herlet Anne list of destinations visitedadventure extremely to offer. put together that perfect for comprehensive, qualified you - she did she returnistoalso tell the tale. to crew a yacht. She has sailed in Kefalonia and more recently discovered the beautiful coast and islands of Croatia.
Madeleine Carter
So, does an itinerary to include the Northern Lights appeal? And customers know are you aware of justMost how Claydon many options are will available? Madeleine as she has been part of the “The Arctic adventure playground, from Norway’s team here which for the stretches last 20 years. Russian border westwards to Greenland offers a wealth of exciting Joining Travel Stop in 1999, she has experiences. For some, ithelped is the opportunity to spend a night in an many, many customers in ice or snow hotel or anarranging aurora dome inspires them; for cruise which holidays, amongst others, others, it’s simply the over search theNot aurora which thisfor time. only isborealis Madeleine an provides the inspiration toavid visitcruiser, this beautiful wilderness. she regularly takesAnd USAsome road just want to experience the of snowmobiling, tripsadventure as part of her annual holidays.reindeer sledding or husky mushing; or want to see the unique wildlife of Over eagles the years, has cruised this region - seals, whales, and Madeleine polar bears. Whatever over 50 times with a variety of cruise your desire, it’s an area which is readily available to explore bylines air, and also managed to take to the roads of the USA in several land or sea.” states. Draw from Sarah’s experience of this of the “Fly-drives are thefirst-hand way to see the diversity of area country and world really andget callthe in feel to discuss plans. Let California her maketosuggestions and for theyour places. From Colorado, from recommend some itineraries for you so that you can get the most Massachusetts to Montana, from Tennessee to Texas - each outstate of your planned trip. to the next”. so very different Madeleine loves talking about her trips and her advice will be sure Karin to enhanceHenry any plans you may have. Please call in anytime. Karin has been with Travel Stop since Linda Cudmore leaving Thomas Cook in 2013. She loves
travelling and has been to many Linda has been with Travel Stop for 10 destinations the world and years nowaround and therefore is aenjoys well sharing her first-hand knowledge with her established member of the Claydon team. customers. Having been to Orlando five times, the Inlatest Europe particularly and trip she being five yearslikes ago,Italy Linda is the Greek been in now busy islands, planninghaving a return trip twice in 2021. the last of years, as With her couple villa already booked,asshewell is now Morocco and Spain. just ensuring she gets her flights booked nice and earlyTravel to ensure best prices. Since joining Stoptheshe has been on a river cruise and cruised the Celebrity Edge,Disney and visited “On on October 1, 2021, Walt World Grenada, India, Tanzania,Resort Zanzibar, Mexico,Florida, Majorca most in Orlando, will and, be turning 50. recently, the Maldives.
“The Maldives has a hot, tropical climate with sunshine all year round. The most popular months to visit are between November and April whentheme the days with very little wind. The up, flying Yes, the iconic park are has drier a massive anniversary coming timethey’re from London to big Male direct is just who overhas tenbeen hours is an and preparing time. As anyone to and Disney ideal to be withentire Abu resort Dhabi,isDubai, Sri one Lanka in thedestination last few years willcombined tell you, the basically or India. The cobalt coralto reefs big construction zone ocean, as theyazure prepare open and new turquoise rides, attractions, restaurants resortsbased in anticipation the bigand lagoons offer a varietyand of water adventure.of Diving birthday. snorkelling are a popular way to pass the blissful days. Influenced by Sri are Lankan andand Keralan cuisine, in the MaldivesatisWalt spicy, There dozens dozens of newfood projects happening flavoursome not much to be missed.” Disney Worldand pretty all of the time, but few will have the impact of such ismassive changesand andeasily additions. A project like be Island-hopping recommended arranged. Karin will Disney’s new transportation system, the Skyliner, happy to make suggestions for that perfect itinerary.and the new Star Wars-themed land in Hollywood Studios are going to change the entire theme park world, even beyond Disney.”
Camilla Packard
Linda will be ready and willing to assist with any Florida plans you Camilla has been with Travel Stop for may have. three years, having moved to the Hadleigh office from Claydon at the beginning of 2019. Her extensive knowledge of Florida Helen with Travel Stop isforsecond 5 years to and,has in been particular, Disney, now but is one ofnow the newest additions to in none. Having been eight times the Claydon team. Following career of 2019) 27 recent years (twice in botha2018 and years Thomas Helen haswhom loved to she with is the idealCook, person with being part Disney of the plans. ‘independent’ side of the discuss industry. “Florida is the number one holiday “Having access to the widest of destination in the World. Fromrange the world holidays imaginable and being able to sell class theme parks and attractions to the holidays which totally suit and fit a huge array of shopping and dining on offer, there truly is customer’s criteria has just been so something for everyone. There is alsopart huge partagency of Florida refreshing. Being of an whichwhich is many tourists (even the ones on year) haveand yet to able to who workreturn with year so many niche discover. operators Despite what you may is more to Florida specialist just opens up thethink, worldthere completely.” than the bustling theme parks of Orlando. The state also offers Since with Travel Stop,beautiful Helen has participated several award being winning beaches, wildlife and in year round familiarisation trips to places which are not on the obvious tourist sunshine.” map, the most recent being to an area north of Madrid reached by ForTren first-hand advice(the on Strawberry your next Disney Camilla would El de la Fresa Train). holiday, This is an excursion be delighted help. Madrid and Aranjuez, the original purpose train operatedtobetween being to connect Spain’s capital with the Royal Palace of Aranjuez. It was called the "Tren de la Fresa" as it went past vast fields of strawberries enroute which is a speciality produce of the Emma joined Travel Stop upon her return town. to the UK from Australia, having lived there for 15 years. Her career, both before leaving for Australia and whilst living Sonia will has be known to many as there, always beencustomers in the travel she has been Emma with Travel since 2007 industry. hasStoptravelled quite and has coveredher at alllatest of the Suffolk offices to extensively, trips being over the course of time. Greece and Thailand. Since her short break on the Celebrity “Thailand is an enchanting countryEdge with a earlier in 2019, Sonia is keen chat to any rich cultural tradition, where the people prospective cruisers as she will convince are warm and and the scenery is anyone to give thisfriendly ship a try. often breathtaking. This is a land of ‘This ship haspristine been beaches called a ancient temples, tantalising cuisine, and‘game tropical changer’ and to I do feelclass that itresorts, is. AndThailand 2020 rainforests. From elephant camps world will the inaugural sailing ofDespite the Celebrity secondis a has see something for everyone. the factApex, that the Thailand ship the award-winning series. Celebrity huge in country, the majority ofEdge visitors continue to flockEdge to thewas same recognised in 2019 it’s by Time it seems they've handful of places; as if magazine, all visitors and to France decide to done stick to itParis again Celebrity Apex. So experience for yourself the andwith St Tropez.” innovative outward-facing design, luxurious staterooms, 29 We believe thatvenues, you’ll bars, have lounges, a moreand enriching and enjoyable distinctive dining entertainment unlike experience in at Thailand if youan doentire something little bit anything else sea. I have photo aalbum to different. share with you - please feel free to ask.” At Travel Stop, we love making suggestions and helping plan itineraries - it is what we do best!
Helen Pardy-Taylor
Emma Price
Sonia Reece
Presentations - Save the Date 11 Jan 18 Jan 25 Jan 08 Feb 29 Feb 14 Mar
European River Cruising Amazing Destinations Incredible India Captivating Canada Sail Away Party Costa Rica
APT Cox & Kings Transindus Prestige Star Clippers Distinctive Americas
Hadleigh Woolpit Hadleigh Hadleigh Hadleigh Hadleigh
28 Mar
Classic Worldwide Holidays
Classic Collection
Hadleigh
22 Apr
Six Star Cruising
Crystal
Hadleigh
16 May
Touring in the UK & Europe
Galloways
Hadleigh
23 May
Extraordinary Africa
Africa Collection
Hadleigh
13 Jun
Scandinavian Peninsula
Best Served
Hadleigh
15 Aug
Luxury Short Breaks
Kirker
Hadleigh
5 Sep
Cultural China & East Asia
Wendy Wu
Hadleigh
03 Oct
Indian Ocean Odyssey
Kuoni
Hadleigh
These are the current confirmed presentations for 2020 however our monthly e-newsletter will always have the most up to date information, offers and competitions so if you do not already receive it please contact your local Travel Stop office to subscribe.
Our bespoke upstairs presentation area in Travel Stop Hadleigh
THE USA – CALIFORNIA, NEVADA & ARIZONA
By Bridget Keevil
At the beginning of November we took a road trip through Western USA. Starting in San Francisco, we picked up a car and headed south down the Pacific Coast Highway - thetrip longest state route At the beginning of November we took 1 a road through Western in California to Los Angeles. This iconic journey, covering around USA. Starting in San Francisco, we picked up a car and headed 450south miles, is the bestPacific takenCoast with Highway at least 1two overnight stops.route My down - the longest state recommendation be Monterey and Pismo Beach. Thisaround gives in California - towould Los Angeles. This iconic journey, covering you450 time to really enjoy the magnificent and allows youMy to miles, is best taken with at leastscenery two overnight stops. experience the sights andbe sounds along thePismo way. Beach. This gives recommendation would Monterey and you time to really enjoy the magnificent scenery and allows you to experience the sights and sounds along the way.
Wildlife is always on my list, so the elephant seals just north of San Simeon could easily up the a whole afternoon. Whilst Wildlife is always on mytake list, so elephant seals just norththe of beginning of the drive wetake found to whole have afternoon. the most Whilst dramatic San Simeon could easily up a the scenery, there new toto see around everydramatic corner, beginning of was the something drive we found have the most andscenery, anotherthere place pull over new andtotake photograph. wastosomething see another around every corner, Driving to place South to means views of and North another pull that overyou andhave takeuninterrupted another photograph. theDriving oceanNorth and to you don’tmeans havethat to cut the carriageway to South you across have uninterrupted views of theLos ocean and you have to stopover cut across to stop. Angeles wasdon’t just a short onthe thiscarriageway trip, although Angeles was just a short stopover on we this hadn’t trip, although westop. did Los manage to find a very peaceful area come we did manage to find Canal a veryHistoric peaceful area is wenear hadn’t come across before. The Venice District to Venice across before. Canal Historic District is near to Venice Beach, and is an The areaVenice that has been restored in recent years to its Beach, and is an area that has been restored in recent years to its former glory. former glory.
From Los Angeles From Los Angelesweweheaded headedover overtotoLas LasVegas, Vegas, staying staying at at the the impressive Bellagio impressive BellagioHotel. Hotel.Stay StayininaaFountain Fountain View View Room Room to see thethe fountains at at their fountains theirbest best- -the theTV TVeven evenhas has aa station station that that plays thethe music soso you get the music you get thefull fulleffect. effect. From madnessofofVegas, Vegas,drive driveover overthe theHoover Hoover Dam Dam (again, From thethe madness worth planning a stopforfora acouple coupleofofhours hourshere here as as there there is so wellwell worth planning a stop much see) and onwardstotothe theGrand GrandCanyon. Canyon. We We stayed stayed at El much to to see) and onwards Tovar Hotel, rightononthe theedge edgeofofthe theCanyon. Canyon. You You cannot cannot get a Tovar Hotel, right hotel a better position.Walk Walkout outofofthe thefront front door door and and the the vast vast hotel in in a better position. expanse rocks huesand andcolours coloursisisright rightbefore before your your eyes. eyes. expanse of of rocks of of allall hues
If you like walking or hiking, there is a free shuttle bus that will take you to the start of numerous trails from easy going to downright Or, walking for a birds eye view whole area, take helicopter Ifhard. you like or hiking, thereofisthe a free shuttle bus thatawill take flight and see the North and South Rim as well as the Colorado you to the start of numerous trails from easy going to downright River Or, flowing itsview core.of the whole area, take a helicopter hard. for athrough birds eye flight and see the North and South Rim as well as the Colorado River flowing through its core.
From the Grand Canyon we drove to Monument Valley. This is one of those places that everyone will know pictorially, but won’t From the Grand Canyon we drove to Monument Valley. This is often know what it is called or where it is. So many Westerns have one of those places that everyone will know pictorially, but won’t been filmed here in the past, Forrest Gump a little more recently often know what it is called or where it is. So many Westerns have as well as many haven’t credited. stayed at the been filmed here more in thethat past, Forrestbeen Gump a little we more recently only hotel in the National Park, The View. Perfectly positioned as well as many more that haven’t been credited. we stayed at thewith threehotel sandstone buttes Park, rising The steeply the valley floor in front only in the National View.from Perfectly positioned with of oursandstone balcony. The park is within Navajo Nation Reservation, three buttes rising steeplythe from the valley floor in front soour thebalcony. best wayThe to see hear about the Park is for a local guide of parkand is within the Navajo Nation Reservation, to the takebest youway outtofor the the guides Navajo their so seethe andday. hearAll about Parkare is for a localand guide stories telling you areNavajo seeingand makes to take and you expertise out for theinday. Allyou the what guides are theirthe whole area come to life. stories and expertise in telling you what you are seeing makes the whole area come to life.
From here here we we drove drovetotoSedona SedonaviaviaAntelope AntelopeCanyon. Canyon. A little From A little known canyon that is one of the most picturesque and very known canyon that is one of the most picturesque and very different from fromany anyofofthe theothers. others.There There quite a steep climb different is is quite a steep climb intointo the canyon, canyon,around aroundaamile miletotowalk walkthrough through and then the it, it, and then up up intointo thethe open air air again. again.Onwards Onwardsthen thentotoSedona, Sedona, where drive down open where thethe drive down into the thetown townwas wasabsolutely absolutelybreathtaking breathtaking with of sweeping into with thethe mixmix of sweeping down the the side sideofofthe themountains mountainsand andthethe vibrant colours from down vibrant fallfall colours from the thousands thousandsofoftrees treesthat thatline linethe theroute. route. real gem, the AA real gem, andand withwith a a short hike hike inin Red RedRock RockState StatePark, Park,a alovely lovely find. The stop short find. The lastlast stop before the the flight flighthome homewas wasScottsdale, Scottsdale,less less than hour’s before than halfhalf an an hour’s drive during thethe whole triptrip drive from from Phoenix PhoenixAirport. Airport.The Thetemperature temperature during whole didn’t absolutely perfect didn’t drop drop below below20 20degrees degreescentigrade centigrade- an - an absolutely perfect heat open air.air. There were fewfew heat for for walking walkingand andsightseeing sightseeingininthe the open There were crowds heavily crowds anywhere, anywhere, which whichmade madenavigating navigatingthetheusually usually heavily populated time to to go go - what is is populated tourist touristareas areasa apleasure. pleasure.A Agreat great time - what there there not nottotolike? like?
SPOTLIGHT ON …
Hannah Moore and the Elmswell Team
Sarah Yandell, Manager Sarah Yandell joined Travel Stop in Hannah Moore, Manager November as the Manager of our Hadleigh
team, having worked in thewith travel industry Hannah has been Travel Stop for more than 30 years. since the beginning of 2016, joining us her aftercareer havingin completed BTEC She started hotel salesa before qualification in Travel & Tourism. then moving to tour operating which took her far sourcing more than the qualification around theBut world accommodation. obtained, has been Hannah’s After taking a career break to her complete a passion for travel and desire to Master ofsee Business the world.Administration (MBA) degree, she has worked for a rail holiday joining Travel Stop, Hannah company,Before as a Travel Counsellor and, more went travelling for four months recently, for a Scandinavian specialist tour around Australia and New Zealand, operator. returning This roletoenabled hersave to witness the UK to enough the Northern Lights, try out to return travelling forsnowmobiling a further four and huskymonths. mushing. Since joining us, she has taken advantage of many travelling opportunities, including and her Her favourite destinations are Italy, South Africa and Australia most recent to South is planning toexperience revisit Japan in Africa. 2021 with her family, having previously visitedisTokyo. “South Africa one of the most diverse countries, offering unique travel experiences everyone. visited And withextremely the time Not only is her to listsuitofalmost destinations difference of just jetlag is almost eliminated comprehensive, shetwo is hours, also qualified to crew a yacht.completely. She has From spectacular coastlines defined by the Atlantic and Indian sailed in Kefalonia and more recently discovered the beautiful Oceans, breathtaking mountains, numerous National Parks and coast and islands of Croatia. private game reserves abundant with wildlife, to the history and
its multicultural inhabitants, this Lights countryappeal? really is And one So,traditions does an of itinerary to include the Northern be explored.” are waiting you to aware of just how many options are available? From first-hand knowledge Hannah, andstretches many of our across “The Arctic adventure playground, which fromstaff Norway’s all offices who have visited South Africa, willabe happy share Russian border westwards to Greenland offers wealth of to exciting their personal experiences with you to to spend make a appropriate experiences. For some, it is the opportunity night in an your dome overallwhich holidayinspires experience is fully ice recommendations or snow hotel orensuring an aurora them; for enhanced. others, it’s simply the search for the aurora borealis which provides the inspiration to visit this beautiful wilderness. And some just want to experience the adventure of snowmobiling, reindeer sledding or husky mushing; or want to see thebyunique of Louise will be known some wildlife of you as this region - seals, whales, eagles and polar bears. Whatever Louise Wright, prior to changing her name your desire, it’s an area which is readily available explore by air, following her fairly recenttomarriage. land or sea.” She joined Travel Stop from Thomas Draw from Sarah’s first-hand experience of thisshe area the world Cook in 2018, where hadofworked for and call in to discuss yourseven plans. Let her make suggestions and years. recommend some itineraries for you that you theyear most Louise has so enjoyed twocan tripsget this to out of your planned trip. both Switzerland and Canada. Her short two night break to Interlaken in Switzerland demonstrated just how much can be packed into such a brief trip. Karin has been with Travel Stop since “A full day excursion summit the leaving Thomas Cooktointhe 2013. She of loves Schilthorn and at 2,970 sea travelling has metres been above to many level included the ‘Thrill Walk’and - aenjoys 200m destinations around the world long steel and glass bridge that clings to the side of the rock at sharing her first-hand knowledge with her Schilthorn. The cliff path has several sections that need to be customers. navigated either by walking, climbing or crawling through, including an eight-metre tunnel area above a 250m Inlong Europe she particularly likes drop. Italy and the Greek islands, having been twice Murren, a car-free traditional Walser mountain village at the foot in of the lasta perfect couple place of years, as for well as the Schilthorn peak, provides to break lunch. Morocco Spain. Once back in Interlaken, time inand The Bernese Oberland can be maximised by taking aSince trip upjoining to Harder Kulm. Travel from the Travel Stop she ishas been Valley stationon by the modern funicular, andand travel time on Harder a river Railway cruise and cruised Celebrity Edge, visited to the top is Tanzania, just 10 minutes. FromMexico, the viewing platform, Lake Grenada, India, Zanzibar, Majorca and, most Brienzthe andMaldives. Lake Thurn can be seen below.” recently,
Louise Gorbatov
Karin Henry
“The Maldives has a hot, tropical climate with sunshine all year round. The most popular months to visit are between November and April when the days are drier with very little wind. The flying Recommendations for Male shortdirect breaks destinations be and easily time from London to is just over tencan hours is an made and readily booked, including all excursion options to ideal destination to be combined with Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sri Lanka ensure the The most is achieved in theazure time that is available. or India. cobalt ocean, coral reefs and turquoise lagoons offer a variety of water based adventure. Diving and snorkelling are a popular way to pass the blissful days. Influenced by Sri Lankan and Keralan cuisine, food in the Maldives is spicy, Annette probably does not need to flavoursome and not to be missed.” be introduced - after all, in 2020 she Island-hopping is recommended arranged. will and haveeasily completed 25 Karin years will of be service at Travel Stop and therefore happy to make suggestions for that perfect itinerary. is probably known to the majority of our Elmswell shop’s customers. During her time with Travel Stop, Camilla has has been with Travel Stopto for Annette travelled extensively three destinations years, having moved toOne the of Hadleigh worldwide. her officemore fromrecent Claydon thebeen beginning tripsathas to the of 2019.island Her extensive of Sicily. knowledge of Florida and, in particular, Disney, is second to “A departure from Southend Airport none. Having now been eight times in makes for a very speedy check-in recentand years (twice in both 2018 security and 2019) clearance through she is the the ideal5-star person withRamano whom to whilst Hotel discuss Disney plans. Palace, with views of Mount Etna, is highly recommended. And Catania is a lovely city to“Florida enjoy a guided walking tour. one holiday is the number destination From the world A tour to a vineyard which grows overinthethe lavaWorld. stone or the chance class and attractions to climb down into a Lava Cavetheme are twoparks excursions which may to be the huge array and of the shopping and medieval dining on offer, there truly considered, magnificent town of Randazzo is is something worth a visit.for everyone. There is also huge part of Florida which many tourists (even the ones whoand return on descriptions year) have yet Siracusa is a two hour drive away the year guides’ of to discover. Despite what you may think, there is ancient more tostone Florida the ancient monuments, including the massive than the which bustling theme parks Orlando. The state also offers quarries were mined by of slaves in the most terrible of award winning beaches, beautiful wildlife and year round conditions, the ruins of the Roman Amphitheatre and the Greek sunshine.” Theatre brings everything to life.” For first-hand onhome your next Disney holiday, Camilla Whether it be advice closer to or further afield, Annette will would be be delighted to help. happy to expand on your ideas to make the perfect trip.
Annette Ross
Camilla Packard
Emma PriceJackie Hall
Jackie joined joinedTravel the Elmswell team a Emma Stop upon heratreturn time from to Louise and brought a tosimilar the UK Australia, having lived wealth her. Although there forof15knowledge years. Herwith career, both before she hasforenjoyed manyand trip whilst overseas leaving Australia living and travelled with both familyinand work, there, has always been the travel Jackie hadEmma never cruised industry. has before. travelled quite extensively, latest Therefore inherJune 2019trips shebeing was to delighted have been invited to step Greece andtoThailand. aboard the Queen Victoria and “Thailand is an enchanting country with a experience her very first cruise to rich cultural tradition, where the people Northern Europe aboard the World of are warm and friendly and the scenery is Pure Elegance, courtesy of Cunard. often breathtaking. This is a land of “Any preconceived ideas youcuisine, may have of cruising too ancient temples, tantalising pristine beachesbeing and tropical formal and claustrophobic be eradicated. I found it to be the rainforests. From elephantcan camps to world class resorts, Thailand most exquisite way travel and Despite the most the relaxing has something fortoeveryone. fact holiday.” that Thailand is a huge country, majority visitorswith continue flock lines to theand same At Travel Stop,thestaff have ofcruised most to cruise therefore theto ideal itinerary and to ship to to handful ofconsider places;that it’s we as can if allmatch visitors France decide stick what suits you as an individual. This really is where we excel. Parismost and St Tropez.” Please ask Jackie any have other member the Traveland Stopenjoyable team We believe that or you’ll a more ofenriching for advice and experience in recommendations. Thailand if you do something a little bit different.
At Travel Stop, we love making suggestions and helping plan itineraries - it is what we do best!
A SHORT BREAK TO NORTHERN SPAIN
By Annette Ross
Galicia is a rural and verdant region in the northwest corner of Spain that remains remarkably unspoilt. I explored its seafaring Galicia is region inand thethe northwest of traditions in atherural portand townverdant of La Coruña stunningcorner Baroque Spain that inremains remarkably unspoilt.deI Compostela. explored its seafaring architecture Galicia’s capital, Santiago traditions in the port town of La Coruña and the stunning Baroque architecture in Galicia’s capital, Santiago de Compostela.
La Coruña in Galicia, Northern Spain is just a two-hour flight from La Coruña in Galicia, Spain Airlines. is just a two-hour flight from Heathrow Terminal 3 Northern with Vueling Upon arrival, with Heathrow Terminal 3 withcollected Vueling our Airlines. Upon with Kirker Holidays, we quickly baggage andarrival, then made Holidays, we quickly collected baggage and then made theKirker 20-minute transfer to the “HotelourNH Collection Finisterre” the 20-minute transfer thejust “Hotel NHwalk Collection located near to the marinatoand a short from theFinisterre” medieval near to the marina and just a short walk from the medieval oldlocated town surrounded by pedestrianised lanes. old town surrounded by pedestrianised lanes. A guided tour took us to The A guided tour took us to The Breogan statue and Roman Breogan statue and Roman lighthouse Torre de lighthouse Torre de Hercules which are an Hercules which are an impressive sight at at the the impressive sight entrance of La La Coruña Coruña entrance of harbour been there there harbour having having been since late 1st 1st century century since the the late A.D. A.D. Our continued toto Our tour continued Picasso’s House museum, museum, Picasso’s House the museum the archaeological archaeological museum in an an old fortress fortress and in and to to Sir Sir John Moore’s tomb. John tomb. We We strolled through through the strolled the food food markets with their markets their amazing amazing displays of of freshly displays freshly caught caught fish, fruit fruit and fish, and vegetables, vegetables, bread stalls stalls and bread and cheese cheese -- all all with an an infinite infinite variety with variety on on offer. offer.
La Coruña has the longest promenade in Europe with sweeping coastal views and five lovely beaches to explore. We encountered La Coruña the selling longest quality promenade in Europe sweeping some nicehas shops leather goods, with boutique clothes, coastal views restaurants, and five lovely beaches to explore. Weaencountered tapas bars, taverns, and cafes with lot of activities some nice shops selling quality leather goods, boutique clothes, on offer. tapas bars, restaurants, taverns, and cafes with a lot of activities Onoffer. our way to Santiago de Compostela we enjoyed a night at the on Parador Cambados, made up of converted historical houses. On our way to Santiago de Compostela we enjoyed a night at theThe city of Santiago de Compostela has its origin in the shrine Saint Parador Cambados, made up of converted historical houses. of The James the Great, now the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, city of Santiago de Compostela has its origin in the shrine of Saint as thethe destination ofthe theCathedral Way of St. James, de a leading Catholic James Great, now of Santiago Compostela, pilgrimage route since 9thofcentury. Theacity's OldCatholic Town is a as the destination of thethe Way St. James, leading designatedroute UNESCO World pilgrimage since the 9thHeritage century. Site. The city's Old Town is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Weenjoyed enjoyeda avery veryinformative informative tour of the Town a glimpse We tour of the OldOld Town andand a glimpse inside is is currently being renovated, followed insidethe theCathedral Cathedralwhich which currently being renovated, followed by and truly iconic “Parador de de byaasite siteinspection inspectionatatthethehistoric historic and truly iconic “Parador Santiago” 1499, thethe Parador waswas originally the the Santiago”hotel. hotel.Dating Datingfrom from 1499, Parador originally place rest after walking across Spain to pay placewhere wherepilgrims pilgrimscould could rest after walking across Spain to pay homage It is of the oldest homagetotoStStJames Jamesin inthetheCathedral. Cathedral. It one is one of the oldest lodgings stillstill welcomes pilgrims. Here we we hadhad a a lodgingsininthe theworld worldand and welcomes pilgrims. Here nice surroundings before ourour return to the airport. nicelunch lunchininlovely lovely surroundings before return to the airport.
Thank you to Kirker Holidays for a super trip and one that introduced me to to aKirker different region offor a much visitedtrip country. Thank you Holidays a super and one that introduced me to a different region of a much visited country.
For all the details on our Exclusive Departures go to our website www.travel-stop.co.uk or just give us a call
GRENADA AND SAINT LUCIA
By Lorna Rome
Day 1 My trip to Grenada and St Lucia started with BA Club World andDay a glass champagne all very civilised! 1 Myoftrip to Grenada- and St Lucia started with BA Club World and a glass of champagne - all very civilised!
On arrival In Grenada we were transferred to The Silversands On arrival In Grenada we were transferred to The Silversands Hotel, and greeted with another glass of champagne and cold Hotel, and greeted with another glass of champagne and cold towels. The main pool towels. The main poolis isthe thefirst firstsight sightyou yousee see when when you you arrive arrive andand really is quite spectacular. Our rooms were very modern really is quite spectacular. Our rooms were very modern with with a sea view. Our evening was a sea view. Our evening wascompleted completedwith withaahosted hosted dinner dinner with with delicious food. delicious food. Day 2 Our next stop was Spice Day 2 Our next stop was SpiceIsland IslandBeach BeachResort Resortjust just along along the the coast. This was probably one coast. This was probably oneofofmy myfavourites favouritesininGrenada. Grenada. We We had had an an amazing welcome, followed amazing welcome, followedbybya asite siteinspection inspection and and aa hosted hosted lunch. WeWe had thethe afternoon lunch. had afternoonfree freeonce oncewe’d we’dbeen been shown shown to to our rooms. I had a beach rooms. I had a beachsuite suitewith withprivate privatesunbeds sunbeds and and hammock, hammock, looking outout to to thethe ocean. We relaxed looking ocean. We relaxedbybythe thepool pooland andon on the the beach beach at different times during theafternoon afternoonbefore beforeretiring retiring to to our our rooms rooms at different times during the to get ready a tasty eveninghosted hostedmeal. meal. to get ready forfor a tasty evening
Day 3 & 4 We had a few spare hours to ‘chill’ and enjoy some spa Day 3 & 4 We had had a fewbeen spare hours to ‘chill’ and enjoy someneck spa treatments which pre-booked for us. I had a back, treatments which had been pre-booked us.relaxing. I had a back, and shoulder massage which was for very Later neck that andmorning, shoulder massageoutwhich was very relaxing. LaterResort that we checked and headed for Mount Cinnamon morning, out and headed for the Mount Cinnamon Resort locatedwe justchecked off the beach and built into mountains. There is a located just off the andwith built into the mountains. There is a Caribbean feel to beach this hotel a short walk through lush gardens Caribbean this hotel walkCalabash through lush down to feel the to beach. Nextwith stopa short was The Hotelgardens with a colonial feelbeach. to it. Next My room private plunge Hotel pool, lounge down to the stop had wasa The Calabash with a area , feel veranda spectacular views across the colonial to it.with Myseating room area had and a private plunge pool, lounge gardens overwith to seating the beach Our evening meal was area , veranda areaand and sea. spectacular views across the delicious followed by beach a relaxing morning up the meal sun. It was gardens over to the and sea. soaking Our evening time tofollowed say goodbye Grenada and travel to Stup Lucia. We arrived delicious by a to relaxing morning soaking the sun. It was late Sugar Beachtoso had a room before bedtime. time to to say goodbye Grenada and service travel tosnack St Lucia. We arrived late to Sugar Beach so had a room service snack before bedtime.
Day 5 I opened my shutters and was absolutely taken aback by the breathtaking view that and greeted me. This taken hotelaback is nestled Day 5 I opened my shutters was absolutely by between the pitons surrounded the breathtaking view and that greeted me. by Thislush hotelgreenery is nestledand rainforest the with pitons the most of thegreenery sea. Breakfast between andspectacular surroundedviews by lush and was plentiful could even have champagne. rainforest withand theyou most spectacular views of the sea. Breakfast was plentiful and you could even have champagne.
Our first full afternoon and evening in St Lucia took us by boat to Our first full afternoon and evening in St Lucia took us by boat to Anse Chastanet ChastanetResort. Resort.The Therooms roomshere hereare are unique and open Anse unique and open to to the outside with the most spectacular views. From here we went the outside with the most spectacular views. From here we went for dinner dinner at atJade JadeMountain Mountainwith witheach eachcourse course including mango for including mango – in– in season and andon onalmost almostevery everymenu. menu. season
Day 66 Today Today we we visited visitedtwo twomore morelovely lovelyhotels hotels way Day onon ourour way to to BodyHoliday. There’s There’slots lotstotododoincluding includingwater water sports BodyHoliday. sports andandtwotwo treatments at at the thespa spaevery everyday dayofofyour yourstay. stay. The food here treatments The food here waswas fantastic with withaagood goodvariety varietyofofrestaurants. restaurants. fantastic
Day 77 Our Our final finalhotel hotelinspection inspectiontook tookususto to Cap Maison – saving Day Cap Maison – saving the best best for for last! last! ItItwas wasabsolutely absolutelybeautiful beautiful from entrance the from thethe entrance to to the – all amazing. WeWe hadhad the gardens, gardens,pool poolareas, areas,the thevillas, villas,scenery scenery – all amazing. lunch – – stunning lunch at at “The “The Naked Naked Fisherman”. Fisherman”.What Whata alocation location stunning beachfront food and service to to beachfront grill, grill, lots lotsofofwine wineand andoutstanding outstanding food and service follow. follow.
Day 8 Sadly, our fantastic trip was coming to an end and I have Caribtours to thank for experiencing of tothe Day 8 Sadly, our fantastic trip was some coming anmost end amazing and I have hotels I’d ever seen.forIf experiencing you would like to of know about Caribtours to thank some the more most amazing Grenada St Lucia, in would and see Travel hotels I’dorever seen. Ifcallyou like me to at know moreStop, about Buntingford. Grenada or St Lucia, call in and see me at Travel Stop, Buntingford. (For Lorna’s full report please go to our website blog page) (For Lorna’s full report please go to our website blog page)
CARIBBEAN • MEXICO • EUROPE • INDIAN OCEAN • ARABIA
4 O Y E A R S O F L U X U R Y T R AV E L
SINCE 1979
THE CARIBTOURS DIFFERENCE
Caribtours has been arranging luxury holidays for over 40 years. We craft holidays bespoke to the individual, so whether you’re dreaming of a multi-centre island-hopping holiday, or simply looking for a week-long all-inclusive beach break, you can trust us to create something perfectly suited to your needs. Holidays with Caribtours all include accommodation, flights, private transfers and departure airport lounge access as standard, but we do much more than book generic off-the-shelf holidays. We’ve selected every hotel in the Caribtours collection with great care, only featuring properties that live up to the highest standards of hospitality. Plus, we provide 24-hour support and assistance, ensuring everything runs smoothly, from flights and transfers to in-resort experience.
BODYHOLIDAY SAINT LUCIA
BLUE WATERS RESORT & SPA ANTIGUA
BodyHoliday has the most comprehensive wellness centre in the Caribbean and offers all guests a complimentary 50-minute spa treatment for each full day of their stay.
Set in 17 acres of gardens on a secluded cove, at Blue Waters Resort & Spa, you’ll find yourself instantly relaxing into the resort’s elegant, Caribbean ambience.
7 nights from £2,589 per person on All-Inclusive.
7 nights from £1,689 per person including breakfast.
PINE CLIFFS RESORT ALGARVE, PORTUGAL
COCO BODU HITHI MALDIVES
This expansive resort offers a dizzying array of accommodation options, delectable dining venues, an incredible spa and a host of superb sports and leisure facilities.
One of the most captivating resorts in the Maldives, rich tropical gardens, interspersed with coconut trees and sandy walkways, are complemented by stunning beaches and tranquil seas.
7 nights from £649 per person on Room Only.
7 nights from £2,345 per person on Full Board.
Prices are based on low season travel with two adults sharing, and include return flights, accommodation, private transfers (shared for boat and seaplane) and the use of a UK airport lounge (where available). Displayed prices are correct at time of publication but are subject to change and subject to availability. All of Caribtours’ flight-inclusive holidays are ATOL protected.
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CONTACT TRAVEL STOP TO BOOK YOUR LUXURY HOLIDAY WITH CARIBTOURS.
Travel Stop, established in 1991, is an award winning independent travel agency with offices in Suffolk and Hertfordshire.
All our offices are members of ABTA, AITO, CLIA and TTNG. We are fully bonded. Your money is safe. All our holidays are ATOL protected.
Our Ten Point Promise to You We understand our clients and find the right holiday for them We go ‘beyond Google’ to tell you more than you can find out on your own We do not just simply book what you request but use our knowledge and expertise to make recommendations as to what we feel will best suit your needs We are creative and suggest alternatives if the first idea does not work for whatever reason We are independent and honest We are open with what we charge – in most cases there will be no extra charge for our services compared to doing it yourself online We provide reassurance. Your money is safe with us We care We provide personal service in a self-service world We are happy to be of service. You can always expect a friendly welcome
1-3 IPSWICH ROAD, CLAYDON IPSWICH, SUFFOLK IP6 0AA claydon@travel-stop.co.uk TEL: 01473 832111 THE RAILWAY STATION, ELMSWELL BURY ST.EDMUNDS, SUFFOLK IP30 9HA elmswell@travel-stop.co.uk TEL: 01359 242555 57 HIGH STREET, HADLEIGH SUFFOLK IP7 5DY hadleigh@travel-stop.co.uk TEL: 01473 828728 43 HIGH STREET, BUNTINGFORD HERTFORDSHIRE SG9 9AD buntingford@travel-stop.co.uk TEL: 01763 788222