NEWELL"S TRAVEL NEWS - ISSUE 12 - JUNE 2019 by Newell's TRAVEL

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TRAVEL NEWS

Issue 12

Exploring

Budapest PLUS - | Bali | Gran Canaria| Poland | CRUISE SHOW 2019 1

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I am delighted to introduce Issue 12 to you all and, as usual, this issue is packed with interesting features from my staff and our amazing tour operators. We have some important details regarding our forthcoming Cruise Show on Sunday 6th October on the back cover, definitely a date for your diary. You can catch up on what’s been happening at Newell’s on page 26 and Sue, my Business Travel Manager, has written a feature on page 13 just to remind everyone that we have a very well established and thriving Business Travel department. This issue’s insert highlights Fred. Olsen’s cruises for 2020/21 with free door-to-door transfers when you cruise from Southampton. This has proved tremendously popular in 2019 and we are delighted that Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines have extended this offer to next year and beyond. I have no doubt you will enjoy the variety contained in this issue and perhaps learn a little more about the worldwide destinations on offer. Until next time.. Enjoy.

Contents Cover Image: Budapest - Great Rail Journeys

3 4-5 6-7 8-9 10 -11 13 14-15 16-17 18-19 20-21 22-23 26

Newell’s exclusive - India Fascinating Bali Discover Gran Canaria Incredible Iceland Cultural Doha Newell’s Business TRAVEL Krakow, Southern Poland Special Switzerland River cruise on board A-Rosa Flora Ocho Rios, Jamaica Prague, Vienna and Budapest Newell’s News & London Trip

Roger Hawke, Managing Director

Flying from Newquay Airport

Amazing tours to Italy

Lake Garda

Lake Maggiore

Offering a taste of the Mediterranean along its sunny shores, idyllic Garda is the perfect ‘lakes and mountains’ holiday choice.

Offshore islets, stunning gardens, delightful shore-side towns and truly delicious ice cream – Benissimo!

Eight days from £739

Eight days from £849

Eight days from £969

Available 2 Oct 2019

For more information or to book call into your nearest Newell’s TRAVEL

Lake Como

Rest and relaxation on the elegant shores of Italy’s most picturesque body of water.

20 Gold ★12 Silver ★4 Bronze

Prices are based on 2 sharing, very limited availability and subject to reconfirmation at the time of booking. Offers may be amended or withdrawn at any time without prior notice. Pricing and information correct as of 13/5/2019 Terms and Conditions apply. E&OE.

E NEWS w LU el SI l's VE TR TO AV EL

Newell’sNTeR AVXECL

ESSENCE OF NORTH INDIA

£1,799

10 DAY FULLY ESCORTED TOUR - 19TH OCTOBER 2019

DOOR TO DOOR

Your escort, Rachel from Newell’s TRAVEL Saltash

Taj Mahal, Agra

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

YOUR TOUR ITINERARY:

• Rickshaw ride to the landmarks of Old Delhi and a tour of New Delhi

Day 1- 3: Delhi Travel past the India Gate, President’s House and Parliament Building to the Birla Temple on a short tour of New Delhi, then marvel at the sights of Old Delhi, beginning with a rickshaw ride to the regal Red Fort.

• Tour the courtyards and pavilions of the Red, Agra and Amber Forts • Marvel at the magnificent Taj Mahal • Ranthambore National Park Safari • Discover the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur, with visits to the City Palace and Hawa Mahal • Entertaining farewell dinner & dance show

THERE'S SO MUCH INCLUDED All meals daily • Exclusive Newell's courier will travel with the group from start to finish • Scheduled direct flights from London Heathrow to India with Jet Airways • Door 2 Door return transfers from your home to the airport • Accommodation, all excursions and entry fees to sights

Day 4-5: Agra After breakfast you will travel to Agra, where you will visit the vast red sandstone Agra Fort and the spectacular Taj Mahal. Following this, travel to Ranthambore National Park where you will spend the night.

travel into the centre of the fort. An afternoon tour takes in the major sights, including the City Palace, the observatory of Jantar Mantar and Hawa Mahal, the ‘Palace of Winds’. Day 9-10: Delhi Explore the local bazaars and stalls of Jaipur with a morning at leisure. On your return to Delhi enjoy a final farewell dinner and dance show. After breakfast you will be transferred to the airport for your return flight to the UK. Bengal tiger, Ranthambore National Park

Day 6: Ranthambore Discover the vast wildlife Ranthambore National Park has to offer with two safaris. One early morning jungle safari to spot the elusive tiger then an afternoon safari to visit other areas of the park. Day 7-8: Jaipur While travelling from Ranthambore to Jaipur, you will visit the Pink City of Jaipur, famous for its distinctive earthy red coloured buildings. On your first day in Jaipur visit the Amber Fort, spanning over four huge courtyards, you will

For more information or to book, call into your nearest Newell's TRAVEL

39 YEARS OF AWARD WINNING SERVICE

A visa must be obtained before travel. All offers are subject to availability & can be withdrawn without notice. Terms & conditions apply. Prices are per person based on 2 adults sharing. E&OE.

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Fascinating

BALI I

was lucky enough to be invited to Bali by Kuoni, with a group of fellow agents, to experience this fascinating country, and the different areas it has to offer. From the moment you arrive you are made to feel so welcome, unlike anything I have experienced before. We visited various properties from Kuoni portfolio, and the first of these was Alila Villas Uluwatu. These Villas were absolutely stunning, the private pools are an added bonus, so if you don’t want to go down to the main pool area, you can just relax by your own pool, with your own personal Butler!! Leaving Uluwatu, which is in the south of Bali, we travelled through Nusa Dua and Sanur, visiting a few more properties, and seeing the stunning beaches in the area, on the way to Tembok in the north. Be warned though, the road to get to Tembok is very windy and takes approximately 3-4 hours. We broke the journey up by visiting the Sutria Luwak coffee plantation, which produces some of the most expensive coffee in the world (it tastes fantastic and is well worth a visit, how it’s made might put some people off, but the picture gives you a clue!!) Departing the coffee plantation, we headed for The Spa Village Resort Hotel. WOW, what a contrast to some of the other areas we visited. From the moment you arrive, you are welcomed with a shoulder and foot massage! This area is peaceful and tranquil, and would be a great choice for people wanting to get away from it all, to relax and to cut themselves off from the rest of the world, for a few days. Whilst here, Kuoni offer an excursion to Mount Batur to watch the sunrise, I can tell you that the views are amazing from the top, the only downside being the 1am wake up call! 4

Heading south, we then stopped in Ubud, which is known as the cultural heart of Bali, with plenty of markets, restaurants and cafes. En route to our next hotel, we visited the Sacred Monkey Forest, lots of monkeys running around freely, although bags, sunglasses, etc must be guarded with your life as they will take anything from you in a second. Departing the Monkey Forest, one of our final stays was the Viceroy Bali, located on the outskirts of the resort, it is

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an absolutely stunning property, with breathtaking views overlooking the jungle, from the lobby, restaurants, pool areas and most of the villas, all of which have private pools. The accommodation is extremely spacious and the food at the hotel is of a very high standard. I would highly recommend staying in a few areas of Bali as it then gives you a true reflection on this fascinating country, which I hope to visit again with my family one day. Adam Randall - Senior Travel Consultant, Truro

SAVE up to £2513 per couple

SAVE up to £829 per couple

* Bali Twin Centre

.* Bali

Viceroy Bali & Alila Villas Uluwatu

Spa Village Resort Tembok

Prices from £3149pp 10 Nights | Room & breakfast | Pool Suite & One Bedroom Pool Villa

Prices from £1679pp 7 Nights | Full board | Kamar Room

Complimentary two hour couples spa treatment at The Viceroy Bali. One set lunch at The Warung, complimentary 90 minute signature Spa treatment at Spa Alila & a welcome package.

Complimentary 50 minute spa treatment per person per night of stay. Selected departures in September 2019 Flights based on Qatar Airways from London Gatwick

Selected departures in November 2019 Flights based on Emirates from London Gatwick

*Holidays and oﬀ ers are subject to availability and change. Prices correct at time of going to print.

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Discover Gran C a n a r ia “S

hall we do something completely different this Christmas?” And that’s how we found ourselves heading to the warm and sunny island of Gran Canaria for a ten day stay last December. The first thing that we noticed after landing at the clean and well organised airport of Las Palmas was the smooth transit to our hotel, the government have invested a lot of money improving the roads and getting around the island can be easy. Arriving at the Cordial Mogan Playa hotel, we were met with a warm, friendly, efficient team and welcoming glass of bubbles. The impressive atrium and extensive, luscious tropical gardens completed our first, very pleasing impressions. The hotel has two pools; one for quiet relaxation and the other for water polo, aerobics and various other activities. These activities are led by an enthusiastic team who also organise: cycling, walking, tennis, crafting and ‘kids klubs’ to name but a few. Trying local food and drink is an important aspect for many people and we weren’t disappointed by the choice of both available in the hotel’s restaurants. The Christmas buffet was outstanding: succulent lobsters, oysters and whole salmons, tender sirloin of beef and the most exquisite array of mini individual desserts. The pretty harbour resort of Puerto Mogan itself has the perfect combination of amenities: a safe horseshoe bay beach, lots of great reasonably priced 6

restaurants, plenty of things to do like a submarine trip (and yes, that’s fully submerged!) ferry boat trips to neighbouring resorts, dolphin spotting and even an adventure on a pirate ship! All of which would be enough for your stay if you wanted to relax in the one resort however we decided to explore further afield to see the many other interesting and unusual sights the island had to offer.

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We hired a car and set off on the narrow, winding roads up into the mountains. Breathtaking views, and from the highest point you can even see the dormant volcano of Teide on the neighbouring island of Tenerife. We travelled on to Arucas, the towering spires of the cathedral were a sight to behold and later we saw the wooden balconied streets of Teror. Both places not to be missed. A few days later we hired a car driven by a local guide who took us to an interesting man made

For personalised luxury, look no further.

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waterfall in Figas and we ate our lunch in the Ingenio caves which had been dug out centuries ago where inhabitants of the island sought shelter from the searing heat. All in all I would highly recommend this as a destination with lots to do and see both in resort and around the island and especially for Christmas. Helen Hawke - Director

HHHH

Gloria Palace San Agustin Thalasso & Hotel

Cordial Mogan Playa

Gran Canaria

7 nights, all inclusive

7 nights, half board

2 September 2019 from Bristol

28 June 2019 from Bristol

£949 per person

£850 per person

EARLY BOOKING OFFER

For more information or to book call into your nearest Newell’s TRAVEL Prices are per person based on 2 adults sharing a room, private resort transfers and economy flights. Other UK departure airports available. All holiday offers are subject to limited availability and change. Full booking conditions at classic-collection.co.uk.

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02/05/2019 10:43

Incredible

I c e la n d T

his year the dream of discovering Iceland finally became reality, let me tell you a little about our trip and experiences! Wendy (Travel Consultant, Falmouth) and I were lucky enough to go to Iceland from Newquay with Superbreak Holidays in January on a 3 night break to experience this amazing country. As a travel destination Iceland really is unique, especially for all the different experiences it can offer from the geothermal pools of the Blue Lagoon to hiking up the glaciers and witnessing the Northern Lights dance in the night skies, visiting some of the most iconic waterfalls and whale watching in the deep seas. The landscape coming into Akureyri was out of this world. The view down the fjords took our breath away and this was before we even put our feet on the ground. During our first day in Iceland we had the time to visit Akureyri before we did the Northern Lights tour in the evening. Akureyri is a northern town and is Iceland’s fifth largest municipality after Reykjavik, it is also the best place in Iceland to witness the Northern Lights. The town offers a wide range of activities from swimming facilities, museums, hiking trails, a selection of shops, bars and restaurants to some of the best skiing in the country. The Northern Lights guided excursion was a 4 hour tour, the local guide from Superbreak was on board to give us insider knowledge of the local area and facts about the Aurora Borealis. The next day we walked down to the harbour and boarded the Hólmasól ship for our Whale Watching tour, this tour is a ‘must do’ as it gives you the opportunity to see some species of whales in their natural habitat. We were very lucky in seeing several humpback whales in the Fjords during our 8

time on board. On our last day we joined the Lake Myvatn Adventure and Land of Ice & Fire excursion. Our first stop was Godafoss Waterfalls followed by a stop at the lava columns and boiling mud pools of Namafjall and the Myvatn Nature Baths. Iceland’s natural landscape is beyond beautiful and you will find great photo opportunities around every corner. If you are searching for an unforgettable adventure travel experience, a road trip around Iceland will not disappoint, book now from Newquay or Exeter for 2020. Laura Emmett - Travel Consultant, Newquay

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Top things to do: Myvatn Baths Snowmobiling Akureyri food walk Whale watching Ski Akureyri Snowshoe Delight walking tour

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Cultural

doha I

was lucky enough to be invited by Qatar Airlines and Qatar National Tourism Council to experience their Cardiff flight and stay in Doha in March. I was the perfect person to do this trip, as this is not a destination I would have chosen for my own holiday. How wrong was I, Qatar Airlines and Doha definitely has the WOW factor. Flying from Cardiff was perfect, only a 3 hour drive from Plymouth and the airport is small, on a par with Exeter, so nice and easy. Qatar Airlines upgraded me to Business Class on the outward journey, definitely the way to travel if you have the budget. On the return journey I flew in Economy, the service was amazing, I was very impressed and will not hesitate to recommend this airline to everyone. When we arrived in Doha, we transferred to the Westin Hotel in the West Bay district of Doha, this took 30 minutes. I expected to be engulfed with the Arabian feel of the country, how wrong I was. Doha is a very multicultural city with lots of different areas and each area has a different character. There is the Corniche area, which is the waterfront promenade, the West Bay is the commercial area, with some of the largest skyscrapers in Qatar, the Pearl is an artificial island with lots of shops and restaurants, similar to the Palm in Dubai, the Souq Waqif, is authentically Qatari, with lots of traditional shops, this is also a dry area, and out of all the areas the most Arabic. The climate in Qatar is affected by the hot and arid desert lands, so ideally you should wear lightweight fibres and a light jacket or cardigan, because the air-con in the hotels can be fierce. As a courtesy to the Qataris we were asked to make sure our clothing covered our shoulders and upper arms and 10

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skirts or shorts to fall below the knees. Suitably dressed, over 3 days, we toured Doha. We started our tour in the Souq Waqif, the Souq area is spotlessly clean and very authentic. A maze of small shops offer traditional merchandise and spices, along with a mix of great restaurants and cafes. This area is dry, no alcohol is served which includes the hotels. There are lots of falcon pet shops and a falcon hospital, the Qataris love their falcons. After the Souq we went to the Pearl and the Katara Cultural Village. The Pearl is a man-made island connected to Doha by a bridge, it is mostly residential with shops and restaurants and also houses a yacht marina - it is the charm of the Arabian Riviera. The Pearl has a very Mediterranean feel to it, with the Medina Centrale, a Spanish area and the Qanat quarter known as ‘Little Venice’, the perfect area to spend a relaxing evening by the marina. The Katara Cultural Village is all about ancient Qatari culture, located on the West Bay Waterfront this is also where there are lots of theatres, mosques, concert halls and exhibitions. We visited the Museum of Islamic Art, which holds the world’s largest collection of Islamic art. The building itself is an archaeological delight, an IM Pei designed building situated in the Corniche area of Doha. It houses 14 centuries of the finest art and artefacts from across the Islamic world, and is ranked as a top international cultural landmark. After the Museum, we travelled 60kms to the south eastern corner of the country, a UNESCO world heritage natural reserve, one of the few places in the world where the sea encroaches deep into the heart of the desert, here we had a thrilling sand bashing experience. WOW, we drove very fast in a jeep over the dunes, great fun with lots of screams. In between all of this we had numerous hotel visits which led me to conclude that there is a hotel for everyone no matter the size of your group. A few hotels had 2 and 3 bedroomed apartments at very reasonable prices. It is a very technologically advanced country, spotlessly clean, with so much to do, to suit everyone. Doha is a secret gem, yet to be discovered by the holiday-maker, with direct accessibility from Cardiff Airport, what a treat. Sharon Hudson - Manager, Tavistock 11

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Experience the world like never before Find yourself in a world you have only ever imagined, immersed in rich historical cultures and bustling modern metropolises. Fly from Cardiff with us to more than 160 destinations worldwide. For more information or to book contact Newellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s TRAVEL.

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A complete Corporate Travel Management Service

n addition to the company’s 11 retail offices, you will find Newell’s Business TRAVEL located within our Head Office at Falmouth. What is business travel? Whilst our retail colleagues are booking holidays for you, our enquiries come from companies both large and small, requesting anything from a standard class rail ticket to a first class air ticket to the other side of the World, car hire at the arrival airport to a downtown hotel. From a domestic flight to Heathrow, to an unusual place such as Novosibirsk in Russia - name your destination and we will research the best and most economical way of getting you there. Utilising “Sabre”, our technological GDS airline system that we employ, gives us the ability to search live availability on most airlines around the globe. As a dedicated corporate travel agency, we are always focused on providing your company and business traveller with 100% quality service and support. We are also members of Uniglobe Travel International, which means we are able to offer our clients all the benefits of global buying power. You will benefit from an efficient and cost effective solution, no matter what size your business is. Round the clock support in an emergency means we’re always on hand, rest assured your call will be answered 24/7. As an independent agency, we deal with all aspects of travel. Our business travellers continuously tell us how much they value the service we provide, knowing that all travel arrangements are taken care of which takes the stress out of their journey plan, allowing them to concentrate on their important business in hand. Please take a look at our website www.newellstravel.co.uk and click on the Business Travel tab. Here you will see a comprehensive list of all the services we can provide. So, for your next business trip why not give us a call on 01326 315416

CONVENIENCE FLEXIBILITY VALUE QUALITY

Newell’s

BUSINESS

TRAVEL www.newellstravel.co.uk

Newell’s BUSINESS TRAVEL 26/27 Killigrew Street, Falmouth, Cornwall TR11 3PN Tel: 01326 315 416 Email: business@newellstravel.co.uk

www.newellstravel.co.uk 13

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KR A KO W Southern Poland

his year was our third visit to this wonderful city and we still found things that we hadnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t done before. Situated in Southern Poland, Krakow is known as the cultural capital and has the largest medieval commercial square in Europe. The architecture is breath-taking and there is something to look at around every corner. The main tourist areas are the main square and around Wawel Castle, which is well worth a visit. We enjoyed visiting Kazimierz which is the old Jewish Quarter. This area is full of wonderful old bars with tons of atmosphere. Most of the bars are candle-lit, one called the Singer bar is our favourite which has tables made out of old Singer sewing machines. We also found some secret bars last time we were there, more details can be given on demand! The restaurants around this area are very reasonable, a fine dining experience can cost as

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little as £20 per head for three courses. Food around the main square can be more expensive, but on the whole Krakow is a very cheap destination which makes it even more enjoyable. I would highly recommend taking a walking tour from the main square, these are offered free but you are expected to tip the guide at the end. We had a fantastic guide and we learned so much about areas we had been walking past but never knew the history or the stories of what actually happened in Krakow during World War II, some of which was very disturbing. The walking tours cover different areas of the city, an excellent way to make the most of your visit. There are also plenty of golf buggy type tours available for anybody who doesn’t fancy walking. We did two excursions while in Krakow, one to Auschwitz and Birkenau and one to the Wieliczka Salt Mines. Auschwitz

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is not an easy day out but something that has to be done, it will leave you feeling as you would expect. The Salt Mines are fantastic and well worth a visit, I wasn’t that keen on going but so glad I did, they were absolutely spectacular. We did both of these trips on one day which was a long day but if you are only in the city for a few days it may suit you to do it that way. You can, of course, do them on separate days which may be less tiring. You can fly to Krakow from Bristol and it’s a very short journey from the airport into the city. I would sum up Krakow as a beautiful, interesting, historical and very affordable city break, we will be back for a fourth visit I’m sure. Rachel Gill - Manager, Saltash

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Special SW IT ZER LA ND

ometimes I have to pinch myself. Switzerland is one of those destinations that I thought I would never visit. I was lucky enough to be invited by Titan Holidays to join a group of travel agents from around the UK in June 2018. Switzerland is a small country located in Western and Central Europe. In spite of the size, the country has got plenty to offer. It is loved by tourists for the astonishing natural heritage of lakes and mountains. I had 5 days to explore this magnificent country to see what it had to offer, from visiting cities to towns to exploring the Swiss railways. Upon arriving in Geneva, I immediately found it to be a cosmopolitan city, filled with people from all over the world, but with an overall German influence. We then took a 2 hour train journey from Geneva to the capital of Switzerland, Bern. What I loved most about Bern is, though it is small, it is beautiful and brimming with amazing places for foodies, with much to see and do. Our first trip in Bern was a guided walking tour of Bern’s Old Town. First, I must mention that the water fountains, found on every corner, are filled with drinkable, delicious water (it isn’t called “The City of Fountains” for nothing). We then visited an amazing Rose Garden, the Einstein House and museum, and many more attractions. One of my highlights was Munster Cathedral. After climbing up 344 narrow steps, you will see the most 16

amazing views of the Old Traditional Bern. No trip to Switzerland would be complete without experiencing the Glacier & Bernina Express. We travelled first class where we had the privilege also to wine and dine on board. We had a full 360 panoramic glass carriage providing spectacular views of gorges, waterfalls, mountain ranges, glaciers and crystal blue lakes. The Glacier Express is a direct train from Brig to Fillisurand and it took 8 hours. The train is also referred to as the slowest express train in the world. There is a good reason for its slow pace, the train squeezes its way through the Alps, through narrow valleys, tight curves, 91 tunnels and across 291 bridges. Our final treat, was the Bernina Express & Tirano. The Bernina Express took just over 3 hours and is one of the most spectacular ways to cross the Alps before descending into Italy. We were very lucky in having the use of the outdoor carriage, this just made the experience even more surreal and gave us totally unrestricted views of the unspoilt alpine panorama. Titan Holidays gave me an experience I will never forget and showed me what Switzerland has to offer, either as a city break or touring on the Swiss Railways. It’s beautiful and idyllic and I can see why. Laura Emmett - Travel Consultant, Newquay

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Top Tips Bern City Tour Cable car to Schilthorn-Piz Gloria and James Bond World Bernina & Glacier Express - upgrade to 1st Class for those panoramic views Trummelbach Falls Davos - Botanical Gardens Alpinum Schatzalp

Book by 28 June 2019††

Switzerland’s Spectacular Rail Journeys 8 days from • Our holidays include Titan’s VIP door-to-door travel service†

£1,699pp*

Includes 10 meals and 4 excursions Departs August 2019 - September 2020 *Lead in price based on 17 June 2020 departure

For more information or to book call into your nearest

Newell’s TRAVEL Mainland UK only. ††£99pp deposit offer valid for the majority of Titan holidays, book by 28 June 2019. Prices are per person, correct at time of print and subject to availability.

†

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River Cr u is e On board A-Rosa Flora

hat a fabulous few days and nights I spent recently with my Mum aboard A-Rosa Flora on our first ever river cruise. We were both really excited about the three cities we were going to visit as well as going to see the world famous Keukenhof Gardens. We flew with Ryanair (which was also a first for me) out of Bristol and a mere 1 hour 10 minutes later we had landed in Cologne. After a short time we were met, boarded a coach and driven for about 30 minutes to the river boat, which was moored with fantastic views of the Cathedral of Cologne. I wish I had time to go visit but sadly not this time, Cologne will be a city break for some time in the future! Boarding the A-Rosa Flora we saw that our cases were with the rest, on the sundeck, waiting to be delivered to our cabin. Phew I had packed too much so was pleased I wouldn’t be lugging it around anymore for a while! I noticed that on the sundeck there was a small putting green and a giant chess set, I filed this in the part of my brain for things to maybe try one day - not this day! I was off to explore my new home for the next 5 days. My cabin was to be found on deck 1, this is the lowest cabin deck and I was expecting our window to be a little strip at the top where wall meets ceiling - but NO! We had a large picture window more akin to ocean cruise cabins, big tick very happy with this. The cabin was very well appointed, really comfy twin beds, dressing table, lots of hanging space and draws (did I mention I had packed too much!) a hairdryer and safe. WC/Shower room was also quite roomy with a glass door 18

instead of a shower curtain. All moved in and unpacked it was time to set sail, so we went up to the sun deck and for the first time I could really get the feel for what river cruising is all about, we pulled up a couple of chairs, was handed a couple of German beers and watched the world slipping by. We noticed that a large percentage of our fellow passengers were German and the announcements were first in German and then English, this we soon got used to and it did not bother me in anyway. Our fellow travellers all seemed to be a happy bunch, this was going to be a pleasing few days. Meals were all of buffet style in an open seating dining room which meant you could either sit in couples if you preferred, or join fellow guests if you wanted more company. There was a huge choice on offer at all meal times, from starters through main course and onto pudding - hunger was not going to be an issue! Neither was thirst as Newmarket offer these cruises as Premium All Inclusive, hot drinks, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages. Evening entertainment was low key a DJ played music and there was a small dance floor if you felt so inclined. There was also a daily quiz sheet to get the grey cells working, and a small shop selling perfumes, jewellery and trinkets. Our first day and evening was spent in Amsterdam, we were moored close to Central Station so a stone’s throw

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from Central Amsterdam. We mooched about in the morning and then in the afternoon Newmarket included a trip to the magnificent Keukenhof Gardens. They had only been open just over a week so it was early season. The bulb fields were beginning to bloom so that you could get a hint of the picture postcard scene that would burst fully into being within the next few days. Once inside the sheer size of the Gardens takes over, the manicured flower beds were immaculate and then into the Pavilions where the scents, the variation in colour and size of tulips was just mind blowing. It was a happy few hours spent with my Mum wandering around on our tour. The next morning when we awoke we were in Rotterdam, only for the morning but I think this was enough time. A great city with quirky architecture, the cube houses are fascinating. The afternoon was spent cruising around Rotterdam and as time permitted, the Captain decided to give us the full tour right the way out to Euro port. This did afford us a view of actual proper windmills which was lovely as opposed to wind turbines. The next day we spent the morning in Nijmegen which is a compact town, really traditional so completely different to our other stops - I could have spent a long-time here mooching around the local markets but time was against us and we re-joined the boat in time for lunch and to sit on deck to just kick back relax and chat over the lovely time we had spent aboard with the various sights we had sailed past. I would say that the Upper Rhine is not the prettiest river but is ideal in April/May for holidays encompassing the bulb fields. I would be tempted to take another river cruise, for complete enforced relaxation I don’t think it can be beaten.

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Thank you, Newmarket Holidays and A-Rosa, for this wonderful opportunity. Kathie Ellis – Manager, Falmouth

RIVER DOURO NEW FOR 2020

SAVE £50* BOOK BY 30 JUNE

All-Inclusive European River Cruises The Douro Explorer | 8-day days from £1,769 | Jun - Sep & Nov 2020

For more information or to book call into your nearest Newell’s TRAVEL

Lisbon & the Douro Explorer | 11 days from £2,179 | Jun - Sep & Nov 2020

20 Gold ★12 Silver ★4 Bronze

Prices are based on 2 sharing, very limited availability and subject to reconfirmation at the time of booking. *Offer applies to bookings made between 23/4/19 and 30/6/19 on 2020 A-ROSA river cruise departures only. It is not valid on cruises departing in 2019. Offer may not be used in conjunction with any other offer. Offers may be amended or withdrawn at any time without prior notice. Pricing and information correct as of 13/5/2019. Terms and Conditions apply E&OE.

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Ocho Rios

J am aica H

ow lucky was I to join a FAM trip hosted by Travel2 to Jamaica! I was even up-graded to World Traveller Plus on my outward flight courtesy of British Airways. This was a real bonus as there is lots more room and a welcome glass of bubbles! You need a visa for Jamaica, but you just fill-in a form on the plane and you get your free visa on arrival, which lasts for up to 90 days. Jamaica is a very verdant island, bigger than I expected with endless greenery as you drive along the fabulous main highways that take you smoothly from one resort to another. The towns are colourful and lively and the sea is beautiful and blue with white sandy beaches. 20

One thing I did notice was that quite a few of the locals do smoke a bit of “weed”. It’s not illegal in Jamaica if small amounts are used for personal consumption. Just bear this in mind if you are offered any whilst out and about on your own! Our base for the trip was Moon Palace, Ocho Rios, a wonderful hotel with the most comprehensive facilities imaginable! Not only was there a hair dryer, but also brilliant GHD hair straighteners, not only an iron, but also a clothes steamer, not only a filled fridge, but also a whole row of optics – amazing. This hotel is suitable for the whole family with playrooms and shows for the children, along with the family pool and activities and chill areas for the over 13s. There are family rooms with child size bath robes, etc. and interconnecting rooms. Ocho Rios has excellent activities be it river rafting, looking for crocodiles, horse riding, the “Cool Runnings” ride, catamaran trips, the Bob Marley Museum, old plantation houses, caves, golf and zip-lines, the list goes on. I was lucky enough to swim with the dolphins and even had a sneaky kiss from my dolphin friend, Tony. In the same area are the Dunn’s River Falls, and nearby the jungle walk and 4 wheel buggy driving experiences. Dunn’s River Falls are a must if you are fit and able. It takes about half an hour walking and climbing over boulders up the waterfall, through the water, to the top! There is a path for viewing if someone can’t manage the climb. There is also a craft village for souvenirs. Jamaica offers so much for everyone from hotels, adventure activities, family fun, wildlife encounters, spa and sports facilities, I could write a book but I only have 450 words and I’ve already gone over! Thank you to Travel2 for such an amazing trip, and British Airways, for our upgraded flights and access to the Executive Lounge at Norman Manley International Airport, Jamaica, to start our flight home in style! Did I have a good time? Ya man!!! Jules Amis – Assistant Manager, Saltash Things to bring home: Blue Mountain coffee A bottle of Appleton Rum A Rasta T-shirt for the happy memories 21

Newell’s T R AV E L

NEWS

Three beautiful capital cities in one holiday

P r agu e , Vie n n a & B udap e st R

oger and I have been fortunate enough to visit Prague, Vienna and Budapest on separate occasions. Now so popular, you can visit each city in one trip rather than doing three individual holidays. You can choose between different modes of transport, plane and/or train, river cruise or a bit of both.

Prague

History, glorious architecture, a fascinating medieval Old Town and lively nightlife make Prague one of Europe’s most popular city break destinations. Prague’s centre has an abundance of history with wonderful architecture from across the centuries. Old Town Square is the perfect place to take time out and enjoy a little coffee break and a wonderful pastry whilst waiting to see and hear the chimes of the famous Astronomical Clock. Take a walk across Charles Bridge for the imposing Prague Castle, which contains churches, monasteries, museums and galleries and sits above the beautiful Castle Gardens. To get great views over Prague, take the funicular railway up Petrin Hill. Prague, I would say is the most reasonable of the three cities for living costs whilst you are there, but the busiest of

the destinations, particularly at the weekends, as it is a very popular destination for Stag and Hen groups, so depending on your reason to travel choose your dates carefully.

Vienna

Getting around Vienna couldn’t be easier - you have the usual choices of underground, open top bus tour, taxi, plus horse and carriage or cycling tours. We loved the balance between old and new - explore the grand palaces and elaborate gardens of Hofburg and Schönbrunn, take in one of the many art galleries and don’t forget the famous Vienna Opera House. The Spanish Riding School is a must-see, to watch the world-famous Lipizzaner horses perform dressage. Viennese cafés are integral to the city’s history and are recognised on UNESCO’s “Intangible Cultural Heritage” preservation list. If shopping is your thing there is also a great choice of local shops, main high street stores and designer shops as well. We were lucky enough to visit Vienna at the beginning of the Christmas Markets season which made the city even more beautiful than it normally is, if that is possible!

Newell’s T R AV E L

NEWS

Branch Manager’s Budapest Impressions:

Budapest

Budapest has stunning architecture, treasure-filled museums, excellent cuisine and the majestic River Danube at its heart. Its scenic position either side of the Danube makes it a more spread out city than the other two. It has three distinct areas – Buda, Castle Hill and Pest. The oldest area of the city is contained within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Castle Hill, on Buda’s west side of the river; take a funicular to the top to take in the incredible views of the city. Buda is the calmer, more relaxed side of the city. Pest on the east of the river is home to the stunning Parliament Building, the Jewish Quarter and the moving Shoes of the Danube Memorial. If shopping and nightlife are on your list of things to do then Pest is the place for this. Whatever you do don’t forget to visit the “Ruin Bars”. Budapest has something for everyone. Helen Hawke - Directer

•

Insight to a stunning riverside city of culture, can’t wait to return to Budapest - Kay Willis – Manager, Hayle

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Beautiful historical Budapest, one of the best cities I have visited - Sharon Hudson – Manager, Tavistock

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Cruising the Danube in Budapest at night is an experience not to be missed, this was certainly my highlight - Jenna Carveth – Manager, Redruth

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Straddling the Danube with amazing architecture, gorgeous goulash & stunning scenery - Budapest is the best - Lisa Hawken – Manager, Bodmin

•

It’s my first time to the city and I thought it was beautiful with the most amazing architecture and a stunning setting on the Danube, it’s certainly on my list to visit again – Carley Gower, Helston

Rail Tour & River Cruise Combinations

Imperial Cities & Five-Star Danube Cruise 2020 What’s included • •

12 Days from £2,195pp Departures between 2nd May & 11th September 2020

• • • • • • • • • •

The services of a professional UK Tour Manager from London to Budapest and from Passau to London Exclusive meeting point at our dedicated Departure Office in St Pancras All rail and coach travel throughout your tour and a fully escorted return journey by rail back to London 4 nights’ hotel accommodation 7-night cruise on board the Amadeus Queen 11 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 11 dinners Guided city tours of Berlin & Prague Entrance to Prague Castle and St Vitus’ Cathedral Tour Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna, Melk Abbey and Regensburg Cruise the Danube Bend and through the Wachau Valley Enjoy an on board recital from members of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra & a Hungarian folklore show Unique flexible excursions allowing you to choose how you spend your day with options including: Tour of Salzburg and an excursion to the Austrian Lake District

For more information or to book call into your nearest Newell’s TRAVEL

Book with 100% confidence, flight-inclusive holidays are ATOL or ABTOT protected, non-flight-inclusive holidays are protected by ABTOT. Dates and prices are subject to availability. Prices may change prior to and after publication. Terms and conditions apply. Please call for further details. Calls will be recorded. E&OE

Newell’s T R AV E L

NEWS

Event voyages. Join Cunard for a special event voyage and you may find yourself front-row of a fashion show aboard Cunard’s flagship, dropping in on the English National Ballet rehearsals mid-Atlantic, or reviewing the day’s headlines with The Times journalists. Cunard has partnered with experts within their fields to bring you a number of event voyages in 2019 and 2020, each features exclusive speakers, activities and events on board, and bespoke shore excursions in selected ports of call. Queen Mary 2

A Journey of Genealogy in association with Ancestry

Transatlantic Fashion Week

Commemorating Mayflower 400.

Eastbound Transatlantic Crossing M922 28 July 2019 Westbound Transatlantic Crossing M015 24 May 2020

Westbound Transatlantic Crossing M025 14 August 2020

World Space Week

Dance The Atlantic

Westbound Transatlantic Crossing M032 2 October 2020

Westbound Transatlantic Crossing M924 11 August 2019

Transatlantic Music Week

Anthony Inglis and the National Symphony Orchestra

Eastbound Transatlantic Crossing M035A 23 October 2020

Eastbound Transatlantic Crossing M929A 15 September 2019 Westbound Transatlantic Crossing M028 4 September 2020

Queen Elizabeth

Literature Festival at Sea In association with Cheltenham Literature Festivals and The Times and The Sunday Times. Eastbound Transatlantic Crossing M936 10 November 2019

Cunard & Southampton Centenary Celebration Westbound Transatlantic Crossing M938 19 November 2019

London Theatre at Sea With the Olivier Awards. Eastbound Transatlantic Crossing M013 13 May 2020

Big Band Ball Amsterdam Short Break Q927 4 October 2019 Singapore to Hong Kong Q010 24 March 2020

Queen Victoria Voyage du Vin Mediterranean Voyage V922 6 September 2019

Big Band Ball Amsterdam and Bruges Short Break V024 19 August 2020

Newell’s T R AV E L

NEWS

T R AVEL T H E WORLD WIT H RIVIER A T R AVEL SO MUCH IS INCLUDED Insightful guided tours and visits Return UK flights and oversea transfers Outstanding tour managers Free time to explore Financially protected by ABTA and ATOL for your peace of mind

ABTA No. V4744

POMPEII, CAPRI & THE BAY OF NAPLES

DUBROVNIK, THE DALMATIAN COAST & MONTENEGRO

SOUTH AFRICA

JAPAN – LAND OF THE RISING SUN

Departures up to November 2019

Departures up to October 2019

Departures up to November 2020

Departures from Aug 2019 to Nov 2020

8 days from only £699PP

8 days from only £899PP

16 days from only £2,299PP

13 days from only £3,659PP

To book or for more information call into your local branch of Newell’s TRAVEL:

FREE phone 0800 008 7411 www.newellstravel.co.uk Terms and conditions apply. Prices are based on 2 people sharing. Prices correct at time of print, but may change at any time and are subject to availability. E&OE.

Newell’s T R AV E L

NEWS

news

SALTASH

We are almost at the end of our refurbishment campaign with all 11 offices now decked out in our new corporate image. Every year since 2014 the grand plan has taken shape and now we are delighted to say that Redruth office is just having the final tweaks but our Saltash office has been completed. Rachel Gill, Manager of the newly transformed Saltash office, said “We are absolutely delighted with our new office, it is so bright and modern. Our customers love it too and we have seen lots of new faces since the refurbishment”. Rachel heads up a well-established team of Jules, Assistant Manager, Sarah and Faye and between them they have in excess of 62 years travel agency experience. They have a vast combined knowledge of the whole of the World, including being experts in skiing, diving, cruising and, from their own personal knowledge, weddings abroad! Whether you fancy Butlin’s, Disneyland Paris, camping, family package holidays, skiing, cruising or Round the World holidays, one of them has done it. They also specialise in tailor-made itineraries to meet your individual requirements. Unlike many travel agents in Plymouth they are able to offer independent and unbiased advise to all their customers. So, when you are next looking for a holiday why not drop in and receive a warm welcome from the Saltash ladies.

EXCLUSIVE TOUR London Trip Friday 22nd November 2019 From £225pp* 3 Day/2 Nights Bed and Full English Breakfast Return executive coach travel from selected towns in Cornwall & Devon. Escorted by a member of the Newell’s TRAVEL team. . Deposit to book £50 per person *Single supplement £130

In March Newell’s TRAVEL held their 31st annual Travel Show at a new venue, Truro College, and, as ever, it was a roaring success. The show is the largest in the South West and attracted the country’s leading tour operators who happily chatted face to face with the visitors imparting their valuable knowledge on worldwide destinations. The day was packed with cinema presentations, on the day show offers and a chance to win a fabulous star prize, just by attending on the day! Newell’s were delighted that Newmarket Holidays were this year’s Headline Sponsor and their star prize was a fabulous Lake Garda holiday for 2 flying from Newquay. Pictured are the lucky winners, Mr & Mrs Day, who said “It’s fabulous, we don’t normally win any competitions. This is a treat to look forward to and we can’t wait!” Truro College will also be the venue for this year’s Newell’s Cruise Show on 6th October so keep an eye on our website for full details www.newellstravel.co.uk

Team Newell’s TRAVEL are taking part in this Year’s 5K Race For Life Sunday 7th July 2019 from 11am in Truro. Sponsor your personal Travel Agent or the Team. Help us raise as much money as possible in aid of Cancer research UK.

Please ask for details

Newell’s T R AV E L

NEWS

Inspiring destinations and experiences… Surprise yourself on a Saga holiday New escorted tour

River cruise

Mystical India

Douro Discovery

January 15, February 5, October 7, November 18, 2020

Flying from Bristol

Flying from Heathrow

April 1, 2020

15 nights† from £2599pp^

7 nights ALL INCLUSIVE from £1379pp*

Including optional travel insurance and additional cancellation rights, or a price reduction of £71 if not required§

Including optional travel insurance and additional cancellation rights, or a price reduction of £20 if not required§

INCLUDING VIP DOOR-TO-DOOR TRAVEL#

Escorted tour

River cruise

Uzbekistan, Heart of the Silk Route

Prague and the Danube April 6, 2020

April 7, 2020

Flying from Bristol

10 nights† from £1999pp^^

9 nights from £1709pp**

Including optional travel insurance and additional cancellation rights, or a price reduction of £71 if not required§

Including optional travel insurance and additional cancellation rights, or a price reduction of £54 if not required§

INCLUDING VIP DOOR-TO-DOOR TRAVEL#

Hotel stay

River cruise

H10 Tenerife Playa Dec 3, 2019 Flying from Exeter

7 nights half board (with free bar open two hours a day)

from £629pp^^^

Including optional travel insurance and additional cancellation rights, or a price reduction of £20 if not required§

Springtime in Holland April 2, 2020

5 nights from £799pp*** Including optional travel insurance and additional cancellation rights, or a price reduction of £20 if not required§

INCLUDING VIP DOOR-TO-DOOR TRAVEL#

For more information or to book, call into your nearest Newell’s TRAVEL ^Price per person based on two people sharing with flights from Heathrow to Delhi on the scheduled services of Virgin Atlantic. Holiday Code: IN523. ^^Price per person based on two people sharing with flights from Heathrow to Tashkent on the scheduled services of Uzbekistan Airways. Holiday Code: UZ001. ^^^Price per person based on two people sharing with flights from Exeter to Tenerife on the scheduled services of TUI Airways. Holiday Code: TS7G1. *Price based on two people sharing a Main Deck (aft) cabin with flights from Bristol to Porto via Brussels, with the scheduled services of Brussels Airlines. **Price based on two people sharing a Haydn Deck (aft) cabin with flights (via Amsterdam) from Bristol to Prague, returning from Budapest, with the scheduled services of KLM Royal Dutch Airlines. ***Price based on two people sharing a Passenger Deck (aft) cabin with return travel from Folkestone to Amsterdam via Eurotunnel or ferry. Terms and conditions apply. Prices are subject to availability and must be confirmed at time of booking. †Includes one night aboard aircraft. §Includes optional travel insurance underwritten by Great Lakes Insurance SE, UK Branch (cover subject to medical questions), call for details. #VIP travel service applies to mainland England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, the Isle of Wight and Channel Islands. Not currently able in the Scottish islands, Isle of Man, Sark or the Isles of Scilly. We reserve the right to select the most appropriate form of transport and/or domestic airport for your journey. Saga holidays are for anyone aged 50 and over (a travelling companion may be 40 +). Saga Holidays is a trading name of ST&H Ltd (registration no. 2174052). ST&H Ltd and Saga Cruises Ltd (registration no. 3267858) are subsidiaries of ST&H Group Ltd (registration no. 0720588). All three companies are registered in England and Wales. Registered Office: Enbrook Park, Sandgate, Folkestone, Kent CT20 3SE. With respect to general insurance products sold in the UK, ST&H Ltd is an appointed representative of Saga Services Limited, registered in England and Wales (company no. 732602), which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct 27 Authority. For more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate, visit www.atol.org.uk/ATOLCertificate. NTA-AP6008.

R ien FO W is u r c

CRUISE SHO

Sunday 6th October 2019

NEW VENUE

TRURO COLLEGE (FAL BUILDING), COLLEGE ROAD, TRURO TR1 3XX

FREE ENTRY & FREE PARKING 10.30am to 3.30pm

Refreshments available Your chance to talk face to face with cruising experts. Join us and be inspired by the world of ocean and river cruising. Look out for your opportunity to pre-register by visiting:

www.newellstravel.co.uk

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