INSPIRATIONAL HOLIDAYS SPECIAL ANNIVERSARY EDITION
What hadn’t Elmswell got? What did Elmswell need? A travel agency! I would employ a couple of experienced agents to work there, brochures would fit into the space and Elmswell certainly didn’t have a travel agency (whether it actually needed one was a matter of opinion). My aspirations were to run my own company, so a travel agency it was to be…
holidays. Half the building was still neglected so I financed expansion into the other half of the waiting room as the council did not have the funds; I grew the business for eight years until I was ready to expand. Onwards and Upwards The old post office in Claydon came onto the market, run down
Travel Stop’s Brave Beginnings Travel suffered badly in 1991 due to the first Gulf War and I had many people telling me that putting a travel agency in a village was like buying a rope to hang myself with. But I did not waver, my mind was made up and on 22 July 1991 Travel Stop was born. Initially selling UK holidays and ferries, we were inspected, deemed worthy and gained an ABTA licence. Travel Stop could now sell the full range of foreign
but what potential! Work started: beautiful oak beams were exposed and lovely hand‐made brochure shelves put in, creating real character. Travel Stop Claydon opened on 22 July 1999. Travel Stop quickly became one of the region’s most successful independent travel agencies and as the percentage of cruise bookings increased, I set up the Suffolk Cruise Centre at Claydon. In 2007 I purchased the property adjacent to the Claydon shop which enabled the Suffolk Cruise
Travel Stop ‐ From the start to the present day! This year, Travel Stop will celebrate its 20th anniversary so I am thrilled to have put together a special edition of our Inspirational Holidays newsletter. So how did it all begin? Waiting Room Revival In 1989 Elmswell Parish Council intervened to stop British Rail from demolishing the run‐down, vandal‐ ised and unused Victorian waiting room on the platform at the Railway Station. The money spent refurbishing the building and reinstating the canopy would be recouped by renting out the building. So who would be the lucky new tenants? Business Brainstorm I saw this as the opportunity to run my own business but what would fit into the small, narrow space?
In 2007, I was very proud to have been runner‐up at the East of England Business Woman of the Year Awards. Achievements
Centre to have a dedicated cruise room, offices and a travel lounge. Elmswell has just undergone a facelift with the removal of the steel mesh barriers, new cloakroom, new flooring a n d t o t a l r e d e c o r a t i o n . The face behind the brand From the beginning, my attitude was one of service excellence. My whole ethos from the word “go” has been exceeding customer expectations. I am not just running my company to make money, although as an accountant by profession
I keep a close watch on the purse strings. I employ 14 staff and am i n v o l v e d “hands‐on” on a daily basis. I am the Eastern Region representative on ABTA and sit on the Code of Conduct Committee.
In 2010 Travel Stop was a finalist in the Travel Trade Gazette “Travel Company of the Year “.
The Travel Stop Recipe for Success: *A passion for travel *An impressive 300 years of experience in the team *An established part of the community *Customers returning to book have become good friends *At the forefront of technology *Our staff go the extra mile *We recruit the right staff *Ongoing staff training *An understanding of the importance of good service What’s next? From Timbuktu to Tipperary, or Kalamazoo to Katmandu, Travel Stop will be able to book it for you ‐ and there’s a pretty good chance that one of our team will have already been there!
“At Travel Stop, a holiday will only be sold if it is right for that customer.”
Bridget
Greece & Cyprus romance culture luxury relaxation
RHODES CYPRUS CRETE MYKONOS SANTORINI KOS ATHENS HALKIDIKI
Affordable luxury hotel holidays Travelstop Greece A4.indd 1
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When and where to go? Ios, Skopelos, Alonissos, Samos, Naxos, Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, and Crete. Also featured are the ‘Undiscovered Islands’ of Amorgos, H y dr a , P at mo s , K o u f a n i s i a , Folegandros, Kithira, Ios, Serifos, Symi, and Sifnos which include an exclusive collection of private villas, boutique hotels and unique town houses. The all‐year‐round climate of Cyprus and the southernmost Greek islands prove ideal destinations out of season during the winter months, whilst the guaranteed temperatures and sunshine of both islands in the summer months, make them key destinations. The romantic setting of either Greece or Cyprus can also be
The Mediterranean is renowned for its fantastic climate, delightful beaches and relaxed way of life. And together, Cyprus and Greece boast fascinating archaeological finds, thousands of historical monuments, buildings and museums, delightful traditional villages, popular resorts, local tavernas, exquisite restaurants, exceptional seafood and delicious wine. Choose between a cultural city break to Athens, a romantic holiday on the volcanic island of Santorini, a peaceful family holiday on the peninsulas that make up Halkidiki or enjoy a lively beach holiday in a popular resort on Mykonos or Kos. Whether you’d like a few days away for a spring break, a long lazy summer holiday or a twin or multi‐centre the perfect location for your dream break taking in two or more islands, all wedding. Organisation is easy if left to can be arranged. Travel Stop. Anita has recently returned from her first visit to Cyprus, legendary birthplace of Aphrodite, the Love Goddess, and she is very eager to return. A landscape of citrus and olive groves, pine‐forested mountains, warm crystal‐clear seas and some of Europe’s sun‐soaked best beaches, Cyprus really does offer something for all. An excursion to the Troodos Mountains is highly recommended. Ilios Travel & Islands of Greece The Troodos Mountain Region These are small specialist companies stretches across the centre of Cyprus that have been providing luxury and is definitely worth considering as holiday villas with pools to Greece, a holiday destination or at least for a Italy, Turkey and Spain for more than visit during your stay. Troodos is 20 years, and offer a wide range of about 45 minutes away from the properties to suit all tastes. The Greek Mediterranean Sea resorts and here Portfolio includes the beautiful islands you will find charming traditional of Corfu, Kefalonia, Paxos, Skiathos, villages to explore, many of which
Anita
remain unspoiled by development or tourism. Mount Olympus, at approximately 1950m, is the highest mountain on the island of Cyprus and there are some stunning views to be seen from here. A hire car is a good way to get out and about as the roads are in a good condition and driving is on the left hand side just like at home! Short transfers, temperatures never dropping below 65 degrees, and just a four‐hour flight, Cyprus is the perfect destination any time of the year.
Ilios Travel also has properties in Turkey and Italy. Some of the very best privately owned villas and private houses with pools are to be found on the Bodrum and Datca Peninsulas. The extensive portfolio includes the resorts of Kas, Kalkan, Selimiye and Kumlubuk, and a small selection of boutique hotels. The select portfolio of villas in Italy include privately owned villas in Tuscany, luxury villas in Umbria, and country farmhouses and cottages with pools in Lazio, Le Marche and Abruzzo.
A holiday in Africa is the trip of a lifetime, but with so much choice, it can be hard to know where to start. By sharing our expert knowledge and experiences of travelling the continent we can advise you on the most suitable country to visit based on your particular interests. We work with like‐minded, established companies that offer specialist knowledge and expertise that means we deliver the very best holiday experience. Whether it be South Africa, Kenya, Zambia, Mozambique, Botswana, Namibia, Tanzania, Zanzibar or Mauritius, we can offer a range of accommodation in each, from safari lodges to charming guest houses and boutique hotels. So where do you begin? Experience the dramatic scenery of the Kalahari Desert; or the saltpans of Etosha National Park Namibia ; the annual flood of the Okavango Delta in Botswana which teems with wildlife; whale watching in Hermanus; the migration
across the Masai Mara in Kenya, or the beaches in Mauritius and Zanzibar? For first time visitors to South Africa we recommend a fabulous tour starting in Cape Town, then moving along the Garden Route towards Port Elizabeth. The route offers a taste of vibrant city
life, stunning scenery and, of course, some amazing game watching. It also h a s t h e a d d e d b o n u s o f b e i n g m a l a r i a f r e e ! Some of the treasures that can be found o n t h e w a y i n c l u d e Tsitsikamma National Park; Oudtshoorn with its Ostrich farms; the underground galleries of the Cango Caves; and a safari in S ha m wa r i Game R es e r v e . The award winning Shamwari Private Game Reserve is home to Africa’s Big 5 (elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion and leopard) and provides elegant and stylish, 5‐star lodges, where you can
relax following your morning and evening game drives. There is an extensive range of accommodation (including family suites), which caters for all tastes; the restaurants offer excellent traditional menus, dining can be enjoyed inside or out in the outdoor boma (weather dependent). And the game viewing is second to none. With a knowledgeable game ranger to guide you, you will get to know about the flora and fauna of Shamwari as well as track the big 5, giving you that ultimate experience when you see the magnificent game first hand. This taste of Africa will have you coming back year after year. Visions of Africa have secured fantastic long stay rates for stays of 3 nights or more at Shamwari Game Reserve. For recommendations or tailor‐made itineraries, Visions of Africa are the company to make your dreams a reality.
When and where to go? January/ February Kenya Uganda Tanzania (N) Rwanda South Africa (Cape)
March Kenya Tanzania (N) Rwanda South Africa (Cape)
April/May Malawi Zimbabwe Botswana Namibia South Africa (North)
May Malawi Zimbabwe Botswana Namibia South Africa (North) Madagascar
June Kenya Uganda Tanzania (N) Rwanda Malawi Zambia Zimbabwe Botswana Namibia South Africa (North) Madagascar
July/August/ September Kenya Madagascar Rwanda Uganda Tanzania Malawi Zambia Zimbabwe Botswana Namibia South Africa (north)
October Kenya Tanzania Malawi Zambia Zimbabwe Botswana Namibia Madagascar Rwanda South Africa (Cape)
November/ December Kenya Tanzania (N) South Africa (Cape)
Late last year, Annette Ross from o u r Elmswell office took a trip to the North West Province in South Africa staying in luxurious lodges in Madikwe.
The North West province is a great destination with a good range of accommodation and activities. Annette’s lasting impression is of the friendly, beaming faces of its people, the huge array of activities available, the variety of wildlife, the amazing enthusiasm of the rangers and the privilege of sharing in their knowledge. The Madikwe Game Reserve, bordering Botswana, 90 kilometres north of Zeerust, just three hours' drive from both Johannesburg and Pretoria, is now one of South Africa's prime safari destinations.
Madikwe is a ‘Big Five’ game reserve covering some 75,000 hectare. It is one of the largest game reserves in South Africa. The rich diversity of vegetation
ensures a wide range of game and the topography offers ideal game viewing opportunities. Annette travelled from Pretoria to Cape Town on the Blue
Train, a luxury service akin to the Orient Express. It has an aura of mystique about it. Kings and presidents have travelled on this magnificent moving five‐star hotel. Its very name has become synonymous with the ultimate in luxury and personal service. Big picture windows give good views, comfortable lounge chairs enhance the comfort – the beds hidden away in the wall. For further information on any of the rail services within South Africa, (or
any other details) please give our sales team a call. Several airlines operate daily direct services to Cape Town and Johannesburg from London. Journey time is approximately 12 hours. Recommended destinations for best game viewing:‐ Uganda: Bwindi and Mount Gahinga National Parks are the two main gorilla viewing areas, whilst Kibale National Park is used to view chimpanzee. Zambia: The Luangwa Valley is the prime destination in Zambia with excellent game viewing. Malawi: Three National Parks which offer good game viewing and Lake Malawi for superb diving and snorkelling options for cichlid fish, with over 350 species found in the lake.
Zimbabwe: Hwange National Park is the main wildlife area of the country, with excellent game viewing particular for elephant. Botswana: the unique habitat of the Okavango Delta is the main attraction for those travelling to Botswana. Moremi Game Reserve is excellent for wildlife as well as very attractive scenery.
Namibia: Not a major wildlife destination, but offers excellent value holidays for those self‐driving. Key attractions are the fantastic wilderness regions, mountains, the huge dunes of the Namib and of course Etosha National Park. Fish River Canyon is excellent for hiking. Tanzania: the Ngorongoro Crater, one of the Natural Wonders, contains a large animal population throughout the year, as well as a prolific birdlife too. The Serengeti National Park and the Selous Game Reserve (largest in Africa) are two other key areas. Kenya: The Masai Mara should be included on any itinerary and one of the Great Rift Valley Lakes. A beach extension is then a lovely way to end! M a d a g a s c a r : T h e i t i n e r a r i e s concentrate on the wildlife areas of central and southern Madagascar. The country has a unique mammal and bird population. For any African destination or itinerary, please contact one of our very experienced team.
The Calabash Hotel is one of the finest boutique hotels in the Caribbean. It combines five star service and luxury within a relaxed and intimate environment to create the ultimate Caribbean escape. The owners, the Garbutt family, and their team have lovingly created a marvellous atmosphere in this award-winning hotel. The 30 delightful suites are arranged in a horseshoe shape around the palatial gardens facing the golden shores of the Caribbean Sea. There are also five luxurious villas sitting on the peninsula to the west of the hotel, taking advantage of the awe-inspiring views. Every luxury is on offer at The Calabash; from breakfast on your private balcony prepared by your personal maid to fine dining at the famous Gary Rhodes Restaurant. The ‘Heaven and Earth’ spa overlooking the turquoise bay offers a wide range of lavish treatments to allow you to indulge and relax in some of the most beautiful surroundings in the world. Discover the true Caribbean in true luxury at The Calabash Hotel. www.calabashhotel.com
Grenada is a small island state in the Eastern Caribbean at the southern extremity of the Windward Islands, located north of Trinidad and
Out and About Here are a few suggestions for you to discover more about this lovely island. • Hike through tropical rainforest at Grand Etang and swim in the Seven Sisters or Concord falls • A hydrofoil trip across to the sister island of Carriacou is a great thrill and offers excellent scuba diving and snorkelling.
T o b a g o a n d V e n e z u e l a . Affectionately known as the ‘Spice Island of the Caribbean’, the fragrant scents of nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves and ginger surround you on Grenada, with the promise of delicious cuisine ‐ just one of the promises that are richly fulfilled on t h i s b e a u t i f u l i s l a n d . The island of Grenada is only 21 • miles long and 12 miles wide, the total area is 133 square miles. •
The often deserted palm‐fringed beaches are perfect for relaxation, but with lush rainforests, spice plantations, lakes and the prettiest harbours at St. George’s, we recommend you get out and about and explore the diversity and great friendliness of this wonderfully laid back holiday destination.
Shopping for spices in the vibrant Saturday market in St. George’s is a must Visit historic Fort George which stands guard over the island’s capital
Food and Drink When it comes to dining out, we recommend ‘Rhodes Restaurant’ at The Calabash, or the Aquarium Beach Club, especially for its lobster barbecue on Sundays. Other great places to eat include Coconut Beach (with your toes in the sand!) and Le Phare Bleu which serves gourmet cuisine on board a beautifully restored Swedish lighthouse ship. Getting There Flights to Grenada are with British Airways via Barbados or Virgin Atlantic via Tobago. Total journey time is 11 hours. Grenada is a beautiful country with a pleasant climate. The best time to travel is the driest season between January and May. Average temperatures range from 75F (24C) to 87F (30C); the lowest temperatures occur between November and February.
Held every October, the Grenada Cricket Classics is an annual event featuring two 20/20 clashes
between cricketing legends of England and the West Indies. There’s a great party atmosphere and you’ll have the chance to mix with the players at social events during the week. Grenada is regarded as one of the most beautiful and most unspoiled islands in the Caribbean. Cheryl Locke from our Claydon office has visited Grenada and will be happy to make some recommendations. In addition to Grenada are the smaller islands of Carriacou and Petit Martinique which can offer some marvellous beaches, nice resorts, beautiful forests and colorful plants. Many of our team at Travel Stop have extensive first‐hand knowledge and experience of the Caribbean and enjoy sharing their expertise. The following destinations have been visited by our staff:‐ Barbados, Saint Lucia, Antigua, Aruba, Curacao, Grenada, Jamaica, Dominican Republic, British Virgin Islands, U.S Virgin Islands, St. Kitts and Nevis, the Bahamas (including Exuma), Cuba, Mexico, Martinique, St.Maarten, St. Croix, Guadaloupe, Puerto Rico, Haiti, the Cayman Islands and St.Thomas.
Brides Stay Free
Inspirational Holidays & If Only... have an enviable reputation in planning Weddings and Renewal of Vows ceremonies in the Seychelles, Thailand, Mauritius, Sri Lanka and Malaysia and all of our luxury destinations are perfect for Honeymoons. Designed around your personal requirements, we offer expert advice on what to do, where to stay, and how to make your Wedding day perfect - all based on our personal experience of all our destinations. We can suggest a Wedding package that covers the formalities, the Ceremony and special touches that can be added on to many of our holidays from only £299 per couple. And additional extras can be added to make your special day as simply romantic or as spectacular as you wish. Our team of specialists can also ensure that those very special guests are there to witness your perfect day, whether it is just your ‘nearest & dearest’ or a larger celebratory party.
Enjoy your honeymoon in Dubai or add a stop-over after your wedding in our Indian Ocean or South East Asia destinations. Brides Stay Free at the 5 star Westin Mina Seyahi Resort & Marina on Jumeirah Beach in Dubai
The Bride stays free The Bride dines free in the Blue Orange Restaurant The Bride enjoys free spa treatments and free sports facilities (as long as her husband joins her) Complimentary rose petal bath in your room on arrival Complimentary breakfast in bed the next morning A free 30 minute couples massage lesson Open to newlyweds arriving within 60 days of their wedding who can produce their wedding certificate at check-in.
Terms & conditions apply and are subject to availability at time of booking.
DUBAI Known as the Pearl of the Arabian Gulf, Dubai contrasts ultra‐modern with the traditional, and old with the
Out and About OMAN In addition to sunbathing on uncrowded, pristine beaches there is Oman offers visitors a truly authentic the option to engage in a variety of Arabian experience. People are pursuits including watersports, friendly, welcoming and proud of their desert safaris, camel rides, carefully preserved culture and way of life, and in recent years tourism has been embraced whilst still r e t a i n i n g i t s t r a d i t i o n a l a r c h i t e c t u r e a n d c u s t o m s .
horseracing, and dune driving. For the less energetic, why not visit the fascinating Dubai museum, indulge yourself in superb duty‐free shopping at the many malls, exotic Oman's coastline stretches for 1,700 souks (markets offering gold, carpets kms of pristine beaches and in and spices), or treat yourself to addition to relaxing on the beaches, afternoon tea at the Burj Al Arab’s there is a host of activities on offer Skyview Bar. This hotel has become including desert safaris, camel racing, an internationally recognised wadi‐bashing, deep‐sea diving, turtle landmark; a symbol of the new and bird watching, browsing the souks millennium and of Dubai’s growing and visiting ancient forts. The international stature. Alternatively, capital, Muscat, nestles between visit some of the many historic rugged mountains and the Arabian mosques, palaces and Bedouin Sea, and a visit to the traditional old capital town of Nizwa is essential, with the Fort and the famous Nizwa Souk being worthy of particular attention. Oman, said to be the oldest independent state in the Arab world, has a magical appeal and visitors are always assured of a very warm welcome. desert tell only one side of the story. This intriguing oasis is quite simply the ultimate destination. It offers a villages and take a Dhow Cruise with flavour of Arabia alongside a chic and dinner on the famous Dubai Creek. cosmopolitan lifestyle. Over recent Whatever you enjoy, there is years Dubai has become an something to offer everyone. increasingly popular destination for golfing trips, with a selection of Getting There championship courses available to Emirates, British Airways and Virgin challenge the most accomplished Atlantic all offer daily direct services golfers. to Dubai, taking just 7 hours. Several of our team at Travel Stop Bridget has just returned from a trip have visited Dubai, having stayed in to Oman and is keen to share her various hotels and experienced many experiences with anyone wishing to of the recommended excursions. So make a visit. She highly recommends please do come along and chat with it as a destination during our winter months. them. very new. Even the landscapes are contrasting ‐ from the clear waters and tranquil sands of the Arabian Gulf to phenomenal rolling desert and dramatic mountain landscapes. The country really is a unique and f a s c i n a t i n g c o c k t a i l o f ’ e a s t ‐ m e e t s ‐ w e s t ’ a n d ’old‐meets‐new’. All year round glorious sunshine, warm inviting Arabian Gulf waters and the majestic
DISCOVER CHINA & INDOCHINA Experience a
orld of Cultures
Wendy WuTours is the UK’s leading specialist escorted tour operator to China, Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. We visit everywhere from the spectacular and well-known tourist attractions to hidden gems of the more remote rural areas. Together they make for an unforgettable holiday experience.
Combine your visit with a tour of Cambodia, visit breath taking temples, beautiful undeveloped beaches, unspoilt forests and old colonial cities. It is also the gentle, polite and charming personality of the Khmer people which makes Cambodia such a memorable destination.
China and Indochina are best discovered in the hands of experienced local people and Wendy Wu’s team of experts on the ground know every corner of the region. Our escorted group tours are fully inclusive ensuring there are no unexpected costs when travelling with us and our guides are second to none ensuring that your travel experience leaves you with wonderful memories.
Venture further and visit the magical land of Laos; its diverse landscape dotted with mountains, lush rainforests and the mighty Mekong River, Laos is one of the hidden treasures of Indochina.
For many, travelling to China is the fulfilment of a lifelong dream. Explore the Forbidden City, gaze in awe at an entire army of Terracotta Warriors and walk proudly on The Great Wall. These experiences are simply magical, yet they are only the first steps towards unlocking the great mystery of the Orient. You can also explore Indochina with us. Vietnam is a country of outstanding natural beauty, with small peaceful villages, soaring mountains, fertile delta plains and winding rivers. With historic cities, beautiful scenery and friendly people, Vietnam will surely hold something of interest for you.
Wendy Wu Tours great value fully inclusive escorted tours include: international flights, departure taxes (except Cambodia), current fuel surcharges, domestic transportation, accommodation, all meals, daily tours, entrance fees, guides and visa fees (except Laos) for UK passport holders.
Call Travel Stop today to book your trip of a lifetime!
01473 832 111
5140
Map courtesy of Wendy Wu Tours
Chengdu ‐ Visit the famous Panda modern Pudong area and the restored reserve to see these adorable animals Xintiandi area. being reared in wooded surroundings Beijing ‐ Stroll through Tian’anmen reminiscent of their natural habitat. Yangtze River Cruise ‐ Enjoy a tour of Square, past Chairman Mao’s Mauso‐ the Three Gorges Dam before cruising leum to the treasure‐filled Forbidden City. Walk on the Great Wall to appreci‐ Li River Cruise ‐ Guilin ‐ Cruise the upstream through some of the most ate 2,000 years of historical significance stunning Li River to Yangshuo and enjoy dramatic scenery in the world. whilst admiring the panoramic views. the breathtaking landscape of beautiful limestone hills, tranquil fishing scenes When is the best time to visit? and picturesque villages. Xian ‐ No visit to China is complete Generally April to June and September without seeing the Terracotta Warriors, to October tend to be the most one of the most important archaeologi‐ Shanghai ‐ Walk along the famous comfortable months to visit, however Bund with its colonial architecture; many people enjoy tours at other times cal discoveries of the 20th century. visit the beautiful Yu Gardens and the of the year when there are fewer old town. See the contrast between the tourists.
Where to visit
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Recently we have seen a huge in‐ crease in travel by rail. Travelling from your local station and boarding the Eurostar in London is a convenient alternative to air travel and therefore it is no wonder more and more people are taking to travel by rail. The journey is the start of your holiday. From the comfort of your seat, watch the continents unravel before your eyes. Every rail journey has its highlights ‐ the glittering coastline of the Norwegian fjords, the fairytale
castles in the Bavarian alps or Venice's carnevale, but rather than rushing, take time to let the anticipation build and to enjoy the adventure of train travel. Wherever in the world you decide to go, your journey will be on the most famous modern and historic
railways. You'll wake up relaxed and refreshed in comfortable, specially‐selected hotels. You'll travel alongside like‐minded people, with whom you can interact as much or as little as you wish. And, throughout, you'll be
accompanied by a friendly but unobtrusive Tour Manager whose knowledge and experience will add an extra dimension to your enjoyment. The Classic Glacier Express itinerary in Switzerland, journeys between Brig and Chur, along the fantastic Bernina Line on this narrow‐gauge train, now over 100 years old. The train climbs up the Rhone Valley to Andermatt and
then snakes and spirals its way towards the Oberalp pass, the highest point of the route at 6,670 feet. The train then descends through pasture and woodland to the Rhine and continues along the broad valley to Chur, whilst passengers enjoy lunch on board. Or join the Golden Eagle Trans‐Siberian Express and be transported back to the romantic age of rail travel as you wind your way across the Russian steppes to th e S ea o f Ja pan i n unprecedented luxury. This unique rail journey is not so much a holiday as a true odyssey.
Some itineraries which are usually considered as fly‐drive routes can be made by train. Climb aboard the “New England in the Fall” train to experience the s p e c t a c u l a r c o l o u r s a n d beautiful mountain scenery on a n a u t u m n a d v e n t u r e .
On this itinerary, passengers board the Cape Cod Central Railroad which has been named as one of the top ten scenic train rides in the country by ‘USA Today’. On this journey, a trip is included on the Mount Washington Cog Railway — the world’s first cog railway which opened in 1869 and climbs 6,228 feet up Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Eastern States. D u r i n g t h e f a s c i n a t i n g steam‐hauled journey, a short stop in made at the summit to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding White Mountain Range. Unlike many holidays where the journey is just a means of reaching your destination, on a Great Rail Journeys it is an integral part of the holiday. The world’s railways are explored, seeing the passing scenery and local culture from the comfort of your seat. Wherever in the world you wish to explore, there is bound to be a Great Rail Journey which ‘fits the bill’.
Designed for first time visitors, a Northern Highlights tour covers all the better‐known sights of Northern India. It will bring you closer to the local people by including a train journey and rickshaw rides, visiting a village and arranging a traditional meal with a local family. The hotels offered are a mix of deluxe and first class with heritage properties in Jaipur and Rohetgarh. The internal travel is by a combination of air, road and rail using air‐conditioning where required. New Delhi: Visit the Raj buildings of Lutyens and Baker, the Qutub Minar, built in the 12th century, and Humayun’s Tomb. Visit the bazaars of Old Delhi, Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India, and Rajghat ‐ the samadhi of Mahatma Gandhi. Short flight to Varanasi: Arrive at one of the oldest living cities in the world. Included is an excursion to Sarnath, and an evening rickshaw ride to the ceremonial aarti on the riverbanks. An early morning boat‐ride along the Ganges will enable you to see devotees at prayer. Fly to Khajuraho: Flight arrives in time for a breathtaking son et lumière show. Morning visit to the famous Chandela temples, built between 950 and 1050 AD, known for erotic sculpture. Morning drive to Orchha: Drive past temples and palaces of Bundela kings. Lunch has been arranged at Orchha Resorts, overlooking the Betwa River. Short train ride to Agra: City sightseeing including the poetry in marble, the Agra Fort and, of course, the Taj Mahal. Drive to Jaipur: Visit Fatehpur Sikri en route. Morning excursion to the hilltop Amber fort and visit a small factory for hand‐printed fabrics on return. Afternoon sightseeing to include the Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, the City Palace, the museum, and the colourful bazaars of Jaipur, considered a shopper’s paradise. Enjoy a traditional evening meal with a local family at their home. Drive to Rohet: A stop en‐route at the charming Nimaj Palace for lunch brings us to the outskirts of Jodhpur. Two night stay at the royal residence of Rohetgarh, with options for horse riding and village safaris. Jeep safari and visit to Jodhpur to see the Meheranagarh Fort. Drive to Udaipur: Visit the beautiful Jain Temple complex in Ranakpur en‐route with lunch in the pleasant surroundings of Maharani Bagh orchards. City sightseeing includes the City Palace, Jagdish Temple and Sahelion‐ki‐Bari.
Tailor-made Holiday Specialist
This tour can be either ended here or several extensions can be suggested. This can be taken as a group departure (group size to a maximum of 12) or as a private tailor‐made tour. Bridget has previously visited India, enjoying the sights of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur and last year she made a very challenging trek to Annapurna Base Camp in the Himalayas. She left the UK late October for Nepal and after a wonderful 3‐night stay in colourful Kathmandu and a 2‐night stay in a tented camp in the Chitwan National Park, she then moved on to Pokhara for the start of a two‐week trek. Michael Palin didn’t mention in his book how hard it was going to be at the beginning! Having walked for 12 days from Nayapul, through Tirkhedunga, Ghorepani, up to Poon Hill, Deurali then Tadapani, Chhomrong, Sinuwa, Bamboo, Dovan, a different Deurali, Machhaphuchhare Base Camp, she finally made Annapurna Base Camp. With a fantastic guide and porter and their very patient help and guidance, Bridget eventually climbed to 4,130 metres and back down. The sense of achievement was overwhelming and well worth the pain endured to get there. The views were spectacular and the people met on the way up and down were all so friendly. It was a real holiday with a difference. All arrangements were made by TransIndus and tailor made to Bridget’s requirements. Both TransIndus and Travel Stop will be happy to make recommendations for any trips to India, the Indian sub‐continent and journeys to east Asia from their own personal experiences.
AUSTRALIA. NEW ZEALAND TWO OF THE WORLD’S GREAT UNSPOILT FRONTIERS With a range of innovative itineraries and different ways to travel, from a day to a month, we cover the best of Australia and New Zealand. We can’t wait to show you these destinations we love—our style! Read on to discover more and let us create an experience uniquely your own.
Whether you have just started thinking about an Australian or New Zealand holiday or are already familiar with this incredible part of the world, Jetset Tours and AAT Kings can create an exciting holiday just for you. Immerse yourself in two of the world’s most ancient cultures and let us do all the hard work for you… 10 or 12 day fully escorted Australia East Coast Explorer flying from Heathrow airport on Qantas Airlines arriving into Cairns, departing from Brisbane or Sydney. Spectacular sightseeing experiences: Great Barrier Reef cruise, Millaa Millaa Falls, Billabong Sanctuary breakfast, Daydream Island, Fraser Island 4WD adventure, Opal demonstration and much more!
Price was £3,299 now from £3,197pp 14 days fully escorted New Zealand Experience New Zealand flying from Heathrow airport on Qantas Airlines arriving into Auckland and return from Christchurch or vv. Spectacular sightseeing experiences: Pancake Rocks at Punakaiki, Fox Glacier, cruise on Milford Sound, Dunedin, Arrowtown, Glow Worm Grotto and a Maori Hangi feast and concert plus much more!
Price was £2,750 now from £2,667pp Tour by luxury air-conditioned coach with an experienced Tour Director and Tour Driver. Accommodation in twin share rooms in quality hotels with private facilities and airport transfers. Most meals included.
Milford Sound - courtesy Tourism Holdings
Queensland Daintree Rainforest
Tangalooma Dolphins
Fraser Island
Conditions - *Exclusive to readers of this magazine. You must quote TravelStopJST offer when booking. Book and pay a deposit by 30 June 2012 for travel between now and 30 June 2012 for tours from the Jetset & AAT Kings Australia & New Zealand brochure. Discount is on land arrangements only. Offer based on 2 people travelling together on the same specified tour. Valid only on new bookings. Subject to availability.
OPATIJA - ONE OF CROATIA BEST KEPT SECRETS by Julia Berg
CROATIA
Prestige Holidays offers everything you could want in Croatia, 3, 4 & 5 star hotels, self-catering apartments, boutique hotels, hotels that offer all-inclusive, cruises, twin centre holidays, a volunteer experience... We offer the Istria region in the north, down to Dubrovnik in the south. Stay 3 nights or longer. Also available from Prestige Holidays
It’s a mix of quality hotels, a range of restaurants from local bistros to some serious fine dining (some of the best fish restaurants in the area are here), galleries, shops, museums and, of course the amazing, clean, blue Adriatic sea. Cool cocktail bars with a gentle chill-out vibe appeal to the younger set. Water taxis and excursions by boat are plentiful from a short cruise along the coast to a day out on a fish picnic to the islands of Cres or Krk. The famous lungo mare is a stunning seaside promenade built when those Austrians arrived and it runs the 12 kilometres between Volosko and Lovran, passing through Opatija.
Imagine the excitement on 25 June 1873 when the first train steamed into Opatija station from Vienna. Ladies in crinolines and men in formal suits disembarked at this new seaside resort which quickly became the most sought-after holiday destination for European aristocracy. The Austrians had built the railway line and soon added beautiful hotels and villas with stunning gardens. They dispatched their orchestras, pastry chefs and health experts and today, Opatija remains famous for cultural events and festivals, some serious cake shops and patisseries, parks and gardens and some world class spas. It’s an easy flight to Rijeka, Pula or Zagreb and a twin centre combining Zagreb the capital with Opatija is easily done due to the superb new motorway linking the two places in under two hours. Opatija is a great place for a holiday – for people of all ages.
WAY TO GO Essentially Prestige features 3-5 star hotels in Opatija, Lovran and Moscenicka Draga together with a gorgeous rustic farmhouse at Oraj in the hills above Lovran and also a volunteer experience at the Eco Centre on the island of Cres, home to the largest griffon vulture sanctuary in Europe. The new Festival Kvarner is series of 6 classical concerts held in the Crystal Hall at the Hotel Kvarner in Opatija. All Essentially Prestige guests staying in the region on concert dates will receive Opatija (and the whole of the complimentary tickets to the Kvarner region) is truly one of concert. Croatia’s best kept secrets. Beaches in Opatija tend to be of the concrete variety whilst Lovran has some gorgeous little bays and just 20 minutes from Opatija, one of Croatia’s best beaches is the long curving small pebble affair at Moscenicka Draga which still retains the feel of a fishing village. Staying in Opatija, Lovran or Moscenicka Draga also means you can visit three countries in one holiday as day excursions are available to both Venice in Italy and the famous Postojna Caves and the Lipizzaner horse stud in Slovenia.
(Note : Editorial feature in Daily Telegraph, 19 March 2011 stated “Opatija feels like a place getting ready to party again”).
Travel Stop is an established independent travel agency specialising in cruises, long haul and tailor‐made holidays worldwide.
Why Travel Stop? Independent: Not linked to any of the large travel conglomerates, so we can concentrate on finding the best holiday for you at a competitive price.
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