Newell's TRAVEL News - Issue 11 by Newell's TRAVEL

Newell s ’

Newell’s T R AV E L

NEWS

TRAVEL NEWS

Issue 11

Exclusive

India

Newell’s T R AV E L

NEWS

Welcome to the 11th edition of Newell’s News. Thank you to those of you who attended our Cruise Show in October last year. It was an amazing success and I hope all those who joined us enjoyed the show and it whetted your appetite to experience another cruise or even your first! As usual our magazine is full of promotions from our superb suppliers with holidays to destinations all over the world. My staff have also been busy experiencing familiarisation (FAM) trips courtesy of our supportive tour operators and their reports, not only make a good read, but provide invaluable insight into the destinations that they were lucky enough to visit. Our 31st annual Travel Show will soon be upon us and this year we have moved to a new venue, Truro College which has first class facilities, cutting edge technology and ample free parking. We are delighted that Newmarket Holidays are our Headline Sponsor and their Star Prize is a fabulous Lake Garda holiday for 2. For more information please go to pages 14 & 15. On page 3 we have more very exciting news. Mercury Holidays have arranged a fantastic fully escorted tour to India exclusive to Newell’s TRAVEL. As usual we have Newell’s “gossip” and top tips, so, all in all, we hope this issue has something for everyone. Enjoy. Roger Hawke, Managing Director

Contents Cover Image: India - Mercury Holidays

3 4-5 6-7 8-9 10-11 12-13 14-15 16 17 18-19 20-21 22-23 24-25 26 27

Exclusive Tour with Newell’s TRAVEL Incredible Croatia Marvellous Mauritius River Cruise with Fred. Olsen Cruise Norway Chamonix France Travel Show 2019 Flying from Newquay Airport Lapland Canada - Tempting Toronto Bruges - Culture and chocolate Captivating Cyprus Travellers Tales - Africa Newell’s News Cosmos - Adventure made easy

Discover China 2019 Take an adventure through China’s ancient and modern wonders. Travel from bustling Beijing, with its Great Wall, to ancient Xi’an and its Terracotta Warriors, cruising the Yangtze River en-route.

13 Days from £2,295pp Departures between 21st September and 9th November 2019

What’s included

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Fully escorted by a UK Tour Manager from start to finish Scheduled flights from London to Beijing and from Xi’an to London All rail and coach travel throughout your tour 7 nights’ hotel accommodation 4-night cruise on the Yangtze River Breakfast every day, 7 lunches and 10 dinners Sightseeing tours of Beijing & Xi’an Visit to the Great Wall of China Excursion to the Terracotta Warriors Guided tours of Shanghai & Chengdu Visit to the Panda Research Centre See the Leshan Giant Buddha

For more information or to book call into your nearest Newell’s TRAVEL Book with 100% confidence, flight-inclusive holidays are ATOL protected, non-flight-inclusive holidays are protected by ABTA. Dates and prices are subject to availability. Prices shown are per person, based on 2 people sharing. Prices may change prior to and after publication. Itinerary may differ depending on the departure date you choose. Terms and conditions apply. Please call for further details. Calls will be recorded.

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 - 29TH 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 Newells 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 it's 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.

Newell’s T R AV E L

NEWS

Incredible

C R OAT I A D

espite having worked in the travel industry for a fair few years, I have never visited Croatia. I was therefore delighted to be given an opportunity to visit there, courtesy of Cyplon Holidays. The itinerary was designed to give me a taste of the world famous city of Dubrovnik and the less frenetic islands of Korcula and Hvar, before returning from Split. On arrival at Dubrovnik I had a short transfer of 10 minutes to the picturesque resort of Cavtat. This offered a mix between a resort based holiday and a city break, as Dubrovnik is either a 40 minute scenic ferry trip or a 30 minute bus ride away. I stayed in the Hotel Croatia, a modern 5 star resort hotel with fabulous facilities and a location that allowed easy access to Cavtat’s waterfront with its wide choice of restaurants and delightful old streets to wander around. Dubrovnik is Croatia’s most famous city and its Old Town has appeared in many films and television series. It is also a popular cruise ship port of call and therefore always bustling. From its striking baroque architecture to the flawless coastal views of the Adriatic, there are few places quite as exciting and beautiful as this city. Start by taking the cable car to its summit and take in the magnificent views of the Old Town. Then return back down to spend the day exploring the limestone streets, walking along the city walls and visiting the baroque buildings. Make sure you wear comfortable footwear, you will walk for miles! Leaving Dubrovnik, I travelled by fast ferry to Korcula, to discover its spectacular Old Town. The day was spent wandering the meandering streets, open mouthed at the beauty of its location. The island has a reputation as being a destination for lovers of food and wine and, given this, I 4

thought it only fair to sample the freshest grilled snapper and a chilled white wine named ‘Grk’ produced on the island. Suffice to say, memories of that day on Korcula will keep me going through the Cornish winter! Another fast ferry ride of just over an hour took me to the island of Hvar, which is known as the ‘Queen of the Dalmatian Islands’. This island attracts a stylish and trendy crowd and can be lively during the summer. I stayed on the outskirts

Newell’s T R AV E L

of Hvar Town, another jaw-dropping beautiful location with many bars, restaurants and hotels overlooking the harbour full of fishing boats and yachts. The town is overlooked by its own magnificent medieval fortress. My hotel, the 3 star Pharos Hvar Bayhill, was recently refurbished and featured highly stylish ‘pop art’ décor, complete with a social media video wall! I also visited some superb ‘boutique’ style spa hotels overlooking the harbour, if that is more to your liking! I had a guided tour of the 13th century town walls, viewing the magnificent gothic palaces and traffic free marbled streets and squares and could be forgiven for thinking that I was in Venice. Reluctantly, I then had to leave ‘island’ life to travel by ferry to Split, with a journey time of 75 minutes. Split is the second largest city in Croatia, and offers a mix of beautiful architecture, shopping, beaches and the ability to island hop using the regular ferries from its waterfront. I visited the magnificent 5 star Hotel Park, located in the city, and opposite a sandy beach. A traditional older style hotel brought bang up to date by a recent stylish makeover, it would make an ideal location for a short break, or as part of a longer holiday combining the city with one (or more) of the islands. Croatia really surprised me with its short flight time, fabulous ‘world class’ cities and breath-taking scenery. I am planning to visit again soon and share its many delights with my family. Perhaps you should consider a visit too? Chris Jago – Senior Travel Consultant, Truro

NEWS

Top tips: • • •

•

Ensure you have plenty of capacity on your memory card for all the photos you will take If you suffer from mosquito bites, take some suitable precautions with you Croatian currency is called the Kuna, they do accept Euros, but give change in Kuna, which is really confusing. Better to take Kuna with you Do not be afraid to hop on a ferry to the islands, in my experience they run to schedule and allow for easy 2 centre holidays Make sure you try the local fish, washed down with a local dry white wine called Posip

DIRECT FLIGHTS from Bristol

Personalised holidays tailor-made for you Croatia two centre

Croatia

EARLY BOOKING OFFER

FREE NIGHT OFFER

dubrovnik & island of Korcula B&B 10 nights from

£1,200 pp

Departs Bristol 9 May

SAVE

£451

4H hotel Park Makarska B&B 7 nights from

£780 pp

Departs Bristol 7 May

per couple

SAVE

£118 per couple

PRE-BOOKED SEATS & PRIVATE TRANSFERS INCLUDED

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

Newells travel ad dec 18_180x123.indd 1

04/12/2018 15:58

Newell’s T R AV E L

NEWS

Marvellous M a u riti u s H

ow wrong was I for thinking it’s just a laze on a beach destination and honeymooners! I was so lucky to be invited by Premier Holidays to join a group of other travel agents to see for myself what this beautiful island has to offer and visit some amazing hotels. Mauritius is a sparkling gem in the glittering waters of the Indian Ocean. It has the most stunning beaches, beautiful coral reefs and luxury hotels with a price tag to fit all budgets. It’s an island that keeps luring you back for more. The island has a mix of heritage from African, Indian, Oriental and European so the food is varied and delicious. If you visit Mauritius please don’t stay on your sun bed at your beautiful hotel but go and explore the island as much as you can and mix with the locals who are so friendly. Visit Port Louis the capital and go to the local market to look out for a bargain and try your hand at bartering, it’s so much fun.

If you enjoy the outdoors and nature you will love the beautiful sea life, mountains, nature reserves and wildlife parks. For those that enjoy a game of golf, there are several championship golf courses to tempt you. I did quad biking at a nature reserve - it was such good fun and lasted at least 90 minutes. Hiking tours around the reserve are also popular if you prefer to take things a little more leisurely with time to stop and admire the views and you might even be lucky enough to see monkeys and wild deer. I also visited some of the main tourist spots of the Grand Bassin, Plaine Champagne and Chamarel. The Grand Bassin is a crater lake, about 550 metres above sea level, located in the mountainous south west district. On our way we stopped off at Ganga Talao which is where there are a collection of shrines and a temple dedicated to Shiva, the third god in the Hindu triumvirate and other gods. Plaine Champagne is well known for the seven coloured earths, Chamarel Falls and the Black River Gorges National Park. I also went to the main rum factory on the island, well when in Mauritius you have to do it! As a complete contrast, I watched the sunset on a catamaran – it was beautiful and so peaceful at sea and you may be lucky enough to have dolphins join you. We visited several hotels that varied in star category and board basis and there wasn’t one that I didn’t like! However,

Newell’s T R AV E L

• • • • •

NEWS

Top Tips:

Hire a car and drive around the island or contact a local tour guide to take you Visit Port Louis market Try quad biking in one of the nature reserves Visit Grand Bassin and the Chamarel Falls Enjoy a sunset cruise

if you want an adult only, all-inclusive hotel then I could not recommend more highly the Veranda Paul et Virginie Hotel. Situated on the north east coast, all rooms overlook the ocean, the food, drinks and accommodation are superb and you are spoilt for choice for water sport activities. Mauritius was so much more than I imagined and every coast is slightly different. I could not recommend it enough and I would love to go back one day. Debbie Harvey - Senior Travel Consultant - Bodmin

MAURITIUS FLYING FROM LONDON

4H Veranda Paul & Virginie

5H LUX* Grand Gaube

Travel 1st September 19 7 nights from £1349pp

Travel 1st June 19 7 nights from £1349*pp

ADULTS ONLY ~ ALL INCLUSIVE

WITH BREAKFAST

(up to 40% discount)

To book or for more information call into your nearest Newell’s TRAVEL branch FINANCIALLY PROTECTED

Prices are per person based on 2 adults sharing, including accommodation, transfers and flights with Emirates from Gatwick or Heathrow via Dubai Subject to availability at time of booking. *Must be booked by 31 January. Terms and conditions apply. E&OE.

River Cruise

With Fred. Olsen N

ot knowing really what to expect, I travelled the short six miles from Düsseldorf airport, boarded Fred. Olsen’s Brabant which was moored on the majestic Rhine, and the entire process, including check-in, took about 30 minutes. I was totally amazed, as I am more used to checking-in for an ocean cruise which can be more of a drawn out process. The staff on board were extremely helpful and the atmosphere was just so relaxed I felt instantly at ease and ready to settle into my cabin. I was pleasantly surprised with the size of the cabin which was on the Top Deck and had floor to ceiling windows. I soon realised that I could slide these open and hey presto it was a Juliet Balcony! I sat back and gazed out looking at Düsseldorf thinking that this could be a city break (my other love) and Brabant a floating hotel that is going to be in the heart of a new destination every day for the next 5 days! The cabin facilities were excellent with plenty of cupboard/wardrobe space and an en suite bathroom with a walk-in shower and the bed was extremely comfortable. There are other types of cabins available on board from lower deck cabins which are at water level with small windows to suites which have living areas as well. Brabant has 3 decks, a cosy bar and lounge area, a spa and also a small gym. Dining aboard is an informal affair and the food was really delicious, on a par with the more luxurious cruise ships. Evening meals were sumptuous 4 course affairs with choices and breakfast was an extensive buffet including the obligatory ‘Full English’. We sailed mostly late at night and into the morning which was perfect, the experience of sitting on deck early in the 8

Newell’s T R AV E L

NEWS

morning with a blanket to keep out the chill was serene, whilst we meandered through steep sided wine lands, picturesque villages with their fairy-tale castles and finally mooring right in the centre of a pretty town so that, not only could we get off during the daytime to take up a pre-booked excursion, or to make use of one of the bicycles aboard (which I didn’t) or to meander at our own pace, we could also step off after dinner and stay ashore until just before we set sail again. The entertainment aboard was very low key with a singer at a piano so the easy step ashore gives you the opportunity to soak up the local atmosphere while sampling some of the locally produced wines. There are no long days spent just sailing on a river cruise so my time was happily spent ashore. I created my own cologne at The House of 4711, visited Cologne’s spectacular cathedral and, of course sampled, the local beer. I took part in a wine tasting tour at the vineyards in Bernkastel, and climbed the cobbled streets of beautiful Cochem right up to the castle perched high on the hill. Mooring early we had the town to ourselves to visit the little shops for the holiday mementos. This trip has opened my eyes to a most relaxing slow paced way to cruise, I would definitely recommend this to anyone, obviously if you fancied a cruise, but also it’s ideal as a city break, for walking holidays as well as sightseeing, but is also excellent for foodies and wine lovers dependent on the itinerary. Lisa Holdroff – Assistant Manager, Falmouth

SAVE in Fred. Olsen’s Cruise Sale

FREE Drinks & Tips on almost all 2019 River Cruises

With just four decks and fewer than 80 rooms and suites, stylish, comfortable Brabant has the intimate ‘home-from-home’ atmosphere which Fred. Olsen guests all know and love. We have some very tempting offers from Fred. Olsen. Choose one of the following great choices: You could benefit from FREE Dining Drinks & Tips on a Fred. Olsen River Cruise or take advantage of 3 Cruises for the Price of 2 on almost all of our 2019/20 Ocean & River sailings. Book before Thursday 28th February 2019

For more information, details of regional departures, or to book, please visit your nearest Newell’s TRAVEL Terms, conditions and limitations apply. See website or travel agent for full details. Offers applicable for new bookings made between 05/12/2018 & 28/02/2019 only, subject to availability. Free Dining Drinks & Tips: Free Dining Drinks Upgrade and restaurant waiter & cabin stewardess tips covered on most 2019 River Cruises. 3 for 2: on most Ocean and River cruises. All three holidays must be booked in one transaction with the same lead name. The value of the lowest priced cruise will be divided into three with one third of this value deducted from each of the three bookings. E&OE.

Newell’s T R AV E L

NEWS

Cruise

N or w a y I

was lucky enough to be invited on a Hurtigruten Fam trip with Maria Ersmarker our Hurtigruten representative and a lovely group of travel agents. This was my first time on a Hurtigruten ship, having only experienced regular cruise ships. So I was really looking forward to it. A classic voyage would take 12 days from Bergen – Kirkenes - Bergen or you could do a 7 night northbound Bergen - Kirkenes or 7 night southbound Kirkenes - Bergen. We flew with Norwegian Air which was another first for me. The airline was extremely efficient, with large leather seats and plenty of leg room. You are able to purchase food and drinks on board. Our home for the next 4 nights was the MS Richard With (one of the 2 ships that have not been upgraded yet, but scheduled for November 2018). The other is MS Nordlys, due for her up-grade in April 2019. There are 10 other ships that have undergone an upgrade which included cabins, restaurants and public areas. Some of the ships have jacuzzis, swimming pools, fitness rooms and saunas. All of the ships have restaurants, bars, cafes and panorama lounges, excursion desks and gift shops. My cabin was a fixed twin with comfortable space between the beds. The cabin was equipped with desk, tea & coffee making facilities and plenty of storage but does lack plug sockets around the bed area. The bathroom was quite compact but a hair dryer, shampoo, conditioner and body wash were provided. Breakfast was buffet-style with a really good choice of hot and cold food, pastries and Twinings tea. Lunch was also a buffet and set dining for dinner, although if there are a lot of 10

excursions, this may vary. The restaurant was very clean with large windows and small or large tables. There was no set seating and the staff were very attentive. Our first excursion was named “A taste of Vesterålen”, and we travelled by coach to Trondenes Church, being the northernmost medieval stone church in Norway, to enjoy a service. The scenery was beautiful with traditional wooden buildings scattered en route. It was then back to the ship for an excellent buffet lunch during which time we cruised to Stokmarknes. Here we visited the Hurtigruten Museum and the landlocked MS Finnmarken, which is the world’s biggest museum artefact and quite eerie. Returning to the ship, we went on deck to enjoy the stunning scenery and the magnificent Trollfjord. The following day we experienced the crossing of the

Newell’s T R AV E L

Arctic Circle on board ship. If you sail north to south, as we did, you receive a teaspoon of cod liver oil and get to keep the teaspoon or if you sail south to north you have ice put down your back! On both occasions you can purchase a glass of bubbly for approximately £10 as a celebration of the crossing. While on board we saw Torghatten, the mountain with a distinctive hole right through it, which is said to be the Brønnøy King’s hat. It plays a heroic role in the Nordland fairy tale of trolls that froze to stone and became the mountains along the coast. Between the ports of Sandnessjøen and Brønnøysund, we saw the beautiful Seven Sisters which are seven mountaintops that local legend claims are female trolls turned to stone. The next day was a very early start to join our coach for a morning city tour of Trondheim, the third largest city in Norway. A man made harbour was specifically built for the cruise ships and businesses that grew up here. Whilst in Trondheim we visited Nidaros Cathedral, Norway’s most important Gothic building, for a private tour. On our final day, before disembarking for our coach transfer to Bergen Airport, we listened to the exhibition team talk which included clips of the highlights of the whole cruise. I could not get over the cleanliness of the ship, the friendliness of the staff or their immense pride in their country.

Stop searching start seeing

NEWS

Hurtigruten cruises are definitely about the “experience”, stunning scenery and beautiful memories. Cathy Hewitt – Travel Consultant, Hayle

Top Tips • • • • • •

Take a European 2 pin plug adaptor Lots of layers, hats, gloves and comfy boots Water is safe to drink from the tap The ships are plastic free on board Cards and cash is accepted on board Budget, as trips can be quite expensive

• Daily departures all year around • Our famous route takes you into the Arctic’s Auroral Zone and to 34 ports along the beautiful Norwegian coast • Choose from a range of winter excursions such as husky dog sledding, snowmobiling, and king crab safari

FREE VOYAGE

• Nordic gastronomy at its best on board, using fresh, local ingredients, sourced at ports during your journey

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK CALL INTO YOUR NEAREST NEWELL’S TRAVEL

if the lights don’t occur on your 12-day voyage between October and March

Flight-inclusive departures from BRISTOL 21 Mar 2019 19 Nov 2019 26 Jan 2020 15 Feb 2020

12 DAYS FULL BOARD

including flights

FROM

£1,349PP

Terms and conditions apply. Enquire for details.

Terms & Conditions apply: Price is based on 2 adults sharing, very limited availability and subject to reconfirmation at the time of booking. Pricing and information correct at time of print. E&OE.

Newell’s T R AV E L

NEWS

C h amoni x

France

magine being able to enjoy a glass of raspberry prosecco in the sun whilst enjoying a snowy mountain view in the middle of July! I was lucky enough to be invited by Inghams to join a group of travel agents to visit Chamonix in the summer of 2018 and what an experience it was! Chamonix is situated in the HauteSavoie region of eastern France and is bordered by Italy and Switzerland. If you enjoy a bit of adventure and don’t mind the early morning starts then this place has everything you could wish for. I stayed at the Hotel La Sapinière for 3 nights, in a double room with a mountain view. This accommodation is based on chalet catering which is normal in ski resorts. The hotel was family friendly and the staff could simply not do enough for you. As a group we managed to cram in the most phenomenal excursions in such a short space of time. The main attraction here is, of course, Western Europe’s tallest mountain, Mont Blanc. We took the Aiguille Du Midi cable car up to the 12

Newell’s T R AV E L

NEWS

summit and the views were simply breath-taking. There are various platforms to choose from to ensure you take in every amazing vista. There are no time restrictions but it can become extremely busy during peak times. The cable car will stop at the mid-station Plan d’Aiguille so that you can hike across the middle of the mountain to see the glacier lakes, if you have time I would highly recommend this. The afternoon was spent enjoying a guided mountain bike ride which led us through the main town of Chamonix, past the Glacier Rivers and down to the bottom of Mont Blanc. On our second to last day we took the Montenvers Railway up to the Grand Balcon and hiked to the cable car that took us down to the Ice Grotto, don’t be put off by the 430 steps it is well worth it! The Ice Grotto is man-made and is dug out and changed every summer due to the glacier moving an average of 70m per year. It features the most beautiful sculptures inside. We finished off our last day with a truly unforgettable 7km white water rafting trip through the centre of Chamonix! The Inghams resort team did a fantastic job of organising everything and I truly recommend you plan all of these trips prior to your travel so that you can guarantee your place! Chamonix was beautiful in mid-July and I can guarantee it’s even more spectacular during the ski season. You really do need a full week here to be able to appreciate it and to spread your excursions and tours out. This was a truly unforgettable experience one which I can thoroughly recommend. Tarnia Marks – Travel Consultant, Helston

2019 Brochure Out Now

• Flights available from Bristol • Great for solo travellers • Unique walking programme • Early Booking Discounts NEW Activity week in Chamonix, France

AUSTR I A • F R ANC E • G ERMAN Y • I TALY • NORWAY • S LOVEN I A • SWI T ZERL AND

52826_L&M_Newell's_Advert..indd 1

BRATIN

Best Activities Operator

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

YEARS

18/12/2018 09:43

Newell’s T R AV E L

NEWS

COME ALONG TO BE IN WITH A CHANCE TO

WIN a Lake Garda

holiday for two from Newquay worth over £1,800

Sunday 3rd March NEW VENUE Truro College (Fal Building) College Road, Truro TR1 3XX

10:30am to 3:30pm - FREE ENTRY Now in its 31st year, the Newell’s TRAVEL SHOW has moved to Truro College with its superb facilities, café, purpose-built theatre plus ample FREE car parking just outside of Truro. The Travel Show is the largest of its kind in the South West attracting over 40 of the country’s leading tour operators and the ideal opportunity to chat face to face with the leading experts in the travel industry. The day is packed with cinema presentations, on the day show offers and your chance to enter our Star Prize Draw, a fabulous Lake Garda holiday for 2 donated by our Headline Sponsor, Newmarket Holidays. Why not let our Travel Show experts open up the vast plethora of holiday experiences which are available to you throughout the world. Perhaps your preference is for holidays closer to home, we have experts on UK breaks, European tours, river cruising, adventure breaks, solo holidays, in fact, there is nothing that is not covered. Look forward to seeing you.

SPONSORED BY

Newell’s T R AV E L

NEWS

Flying from Newquay Airport

Amazing tours to Italy

Lake Garda

Portofino, Florence & Tuscany

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

Discover and explore one of the Mediterranean’s most exclusive corners, the beautiful Tuscan countryside and the stunning ‘Renaissance Cradle’.

Eight days from £719 Available 29 May & 2 Oct 2019

Eight days from £989 Available 29 May & 2 Oct 2019

Bernina Express © swiss-image.ch

Venice, Verona & the Wonders of Lake Garda

Lake Como, St Moritz & the Bernina Express

Discover and explore an idyllic corner of the world and two of Europe’s most fascinating, enthralling and historic cities.

Savour ‘lakes and mountains’ perfection and take one of the world’s great railway journeys to Switzerland’s most celebrated hideaway.

Eight days from £950 Available 29 May & 2 Oct

Eight days from £1,045 Available 29 May & 2 Oct

For more information or to book call into your nearest Newell’s TRAVEL Terms and conditions apply. Prices are based on 2 people. Prices correct at time of print, but may change at any time 1 6 subject to availability. E&OE. and are

Newell’s T R AV E L

NEWS

Levi, Finnish Lapland

Lapland 29th November 2019 (other dates available) 3 days • Exeter From £1199 per adult

was so lucky to experience this amazing and breathtaking winter wonder land on a FAM trip with Inghams Holidays. The scenery was so pretty with a light covering of dazzling snow on the ground and tree branches and I can just imagine how the scenery will change as the winter snowfall descends in December. This is the homeland of Father Christmas so a visit to meet the Big Man himself was a must! The excitement on the children’s faces waiting to see Father Christmas was just magical. The smell of gingerbread hits you as soon as you open the door to the gingerbread making house, where we made gingerbread men to take away in small bags. Whilst munching gingerbread around Santa’s homeland, we could join in cooking sausages on an open fire and drink warm berry juice. The highlight for me was when we visited the Husky farm and got to cuddle and interact with the Huskies. I didn’t manage to do a Husky ride however this is easy to book if you have the time. To keep warm and toasty whilst having lots of fun in the snow you can hire thermal suits. Levi is a small town with plenty of places to eat and drink, whilst you have the ski slopes in the background which adds to the atmosphere of your winter holiday. Claire Chapman - Travel Consultant, Bodmin

N E W E L L’ S T R A V E L - E X C L U S I V E T O U R S

British Grand Prix 2019 12th July 2019 - 3 Days/2 Nights with Dinner and Breakfast From £385pp

BELGIUM Grand Prix 2019 30th August 2019 - 4 Days/3 Nights with Breakfast From £399pp Includes: Executive Coach travel from South West- All transfers - Upgrade tickets available

British Pullman vintage train full day excursion to Historic Bath Embarkation only at Penzance or Truro 1st June 2019 From £399pp • Round-trip travel aboard the Belmond British Pullman luxury train • Welcome sparkling Bellini • Fine-dining silver service • Delicious three-course brunch on the outward journey • Morning tea and coffee • Free time in Bath • Champagne reception back on board • Sumptuous four-course dinner • Half a bottle of wine per person • Coffee, tea and petit fours

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

Terms & Conditions apply: Price is based on 2 adults sharing, very limited availability and subject to reconfirmation at the time of booking. Pricing and information correct at time of print. E&OE. 17

Newell’s T R AV E L

NEWS

CAN A DA

Tempting Toronto

ell, what an amazing surprise it was for me to be given the opportunity to visit Toronto with Jetset Flights and be part of their FAM Trip with agents from around the UK in October. I had 5 days in this wonderful city and what a way to experience a part of Canada for the first time. If you ask a Canadian, Toronto is known as “Little New York”. The first thing that struck me on my arrival was the hospitality of the Canadians, and this was apparent throughout my trip. Toronto is a wonderful city full of fantastic attractions, such as the CN Tower, enhanced by the natural beauty of the parks surrounding the city, such as Scarborough Bluffs. Our first excursion was to see one of the greatest natural spectacles on the planet, Niagara Falls. You really do need to prepare yourself for one of the most memorable days of your life - I personally will never forget it! 18

On arrival at Niagara we made our way to the Sheraton Hotel and had lunch at the Fallsview Restaurant with one of the most iconic backdrops in the world. We then boarded the Hornblower for a cruise to see Niagara Falls in all its beauty. The power from the Falls is just awesome, the ponchos you are given to wear are designed to keep off the spray, but in reality you are going to get wet and look silly, no I mean soaked, but so worth it, it is a must do for any visit to Toronto. Toronto has so much to see and do in the city itself, Canada’s most recognizable icon the CN Tower stands at 553.33m with glass floor panels and floor to ceiling windows, offering spectacular views from wherever you look. For the more daring, you can add the Edge Walk to your experience. During the next 3 days we visited Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada – it houses the largest moving sidewalk viewing platform and an extensive jellyfish exhibit. We enjoyed a scrumptious jazz brunch at the Hot House Restaurant which is one of Toronto’s destination food and wine eateries in the historic St Lawrence neighbourhood and took to a Segway to glide around the historic Distillery District! Our final treat, was joining the Original Haunted Walk of Toronto where our guide told us some of the most spine-

Newell’s T R AV E L

NEWS

tingling ghost stories from the earliest days of the city, including haunted theatres, unsolved mysteries and the terrifying encounters at Mackenzie House, this was a must as Halloween was being celebrated during our stay. Jetset gave me an experience that I will never forget and showed me a destination that really does have something to offer everyone from a short city break to an extension of a Canadian tour. I know I’ve only had a taste of Canada but there are definitely more Canadian holidays within me. Natasha Pellowe – Travel Consultant, Newquay

Canada Tours 7nts, Eastern Journey Escorted Tour

7nts, Western Journey Escorted Tour

From

£1199

£1499

per person

Travel : 11th May 2019 Toronto - Niagara Falls - Ottawa - Quebec City - Montreal Includes: • Flights from London Heathrow • 7 nights hotel accommodation • Experienced tour driver & tour director throughout • Meals: 7 breakfast • Montreal, Niagara Falls, Ottawa, Quebec & Toronto city tour & transportation by modern tour coach

0800 008 7411

Please contact your local Newell’s TRAVEL

per person

Travel : 18th May 2019 Calgary - Banff - Canmore - Kamloops - Whistler - Vancouver Includes: • Flights from London Heathrow • 7 nights accommodation • Sightseeing tours of Banff, Calgary & Vancouver • Transportation by modern tour coach • Experienced tour driver • Jonview tour director throughout

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. Terms and Conditions apply. E&OE

Newell’s T R AV E L

NEWS

BRUG ES Culture and Chocolate W

ell, my FAM trip started by experiencing something new even before leaving the UK, I was so excited to be travelling on the Eurostar for the first time. It’s a fantastic, fast and comfortable way to travel to the continent, with easy connections on the local trains from Brussels to Bruges. I was lucky enough to visit Bruges this summer with Superbreak Holidays during the Flanders Art Festival, the city was filled with huge sculptures, my favourite was by a New York artist, it was a huge whale made from blue and white plastic found in our oceans collected from around the world, plastic crates, bottles and even a toilet seat! In comparison to Bruges’ neighbouring, more vibrant cities, Antwerp and Ghent, Bruges has a wonderful traditional charm with horse & cart rides and cobbled streets. We took a 3 hour city walking tour, admiring all of the old architecture and beautiful canals lined with colourful flowers. There are 2 main squares, which are great meeting places, a real BUZZ, full of café bars and shops. The Market Square is home to a magnificent Belfry Tower, it also hosts weekly food and flower traders and during the festive season it comes to life filled with twinkling lights and stalls selling traditional Christmas gifts and serving mulled wine and the BEST chocolate treats. The Castle Square is located right next to the Market Square where you will find more historical buildings, the Town Hall, Chambers and the Basilica of the Holy Blood. The highlight for me was taking a boat trip along the canals, a very relaxing 20

way to see the sites, or more importantly a perfect way to rest your feet! No trip to Bruges would be complete without sampling the famous chocolate, waffles and beer. I can confirm they are all delicious! Well, you are spoilt for choice with over 50 chocolate shops and chocolate factory to visit, all offering unique flavours and designs, it’s great seeing the waffles being freshly made to order as well, topped with cream, strawberries and of course chocolate! On the last day we visited the De Halve Maan Brewery for a full tour and talk about the making of the local beer, we were taken all the way to the roof top which gave us a view of the whole city, we enjoyed an evening meal in their restaurant and took the opportunity to try different flavours/strengths of beer, which were all very, very tasty. I would love to visit in the winter to see the Christmas Markets and to travel on the Eurostar again. Sarah Skews – Senior Travel Consultant, Saltash

Top Tips:

• • • • •

Try the fresh waffles - delicious A boat trip on the canal Upgrade to premium class on Eurostar for comfort with meal and drinks Brewery tour If you are on a cruise and Bruges is a port of call, it is well worth a visit

KIRKER HOLIDAYS FOR DISCERNING TRAVELLERS

Kirker Holidays provides carefully crafted tailor-made holidays to over 140 destinations in 40 countries - including 70 classic cities and 250 relaxing rural locations throughout Europe and beyond. The Low Countries offer some of Europe’s most charming historic cities and our favourites include Brussels, Bruges and Ghent. We also organise a series of escorted Cultural Tours & Music Holidays, including our own exclusive Music Festivals on land and at sea. Prices are per person and include flights, private car transfers (excluding Bruges), accommodation with breakfast, Kirker Guide Notes and the services of the Kirker Concierge.

Bruges The Pand **** Deluxe

In the heart of mediaeval Bruges’ canal district, this beautifully restored 18th century mansion is just two minutes’ walk from the Market Square. There are 26 rooms, a cosy bar and an attractive breakfast room where champagne breakfast is served and hot dishes are prepared on the AGA. 3 nights for the price of 2 until 31 March, and for midweek stays all year - price from £589, saving £164

Ghent The Harmony **** Deluxe

One of the great art cities of Northern Europe – Ghent is just 45 minutes by train from Brussels and offers the discerning visitor an array of galleries, museums and excellent restaurants. The privately-owned Harmony is located on a quiet canal in the oldest neighbourhood in Ghent. There are just 40 bedrooms, a stylish bar, and a tranquil courtyard garden where drinks are served in fine weather.

Brussels Le Dixseptieme **** Superior Boutique

Rebuilt in the 17th century as the residence of the Spanish Ambassador, Le Dixseptieme is a boutique hotel in the centre of Brussels. All 37 rooms are named after famous Belgian painters and are located either in the main building or in the adjacent house across the small courtyard garden. 3 night price from £667

3 night price from £649

Includes a 72hr museum pass

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

Newell’s T R AV E L

NEWS

Captivating

C YPRUS

yprus is a country that I have heard a lot about but never thought of visiting. I was fortunate enough to be invited by the Cyprus Tourism Organisation to visit their beautiful country. We travelled from London Gatwick, however, Cyprus is accessible from Exeter and Bristol throughout the year. Cyprus is an island rich in history and mythology and is proud to be known as the birthplace of Aphrodite. As a country it definitely has something for everyone whatever your age. I visited the area from Larnaca around the coast to Paphos and then through the mountains back to Larnaca. Cyprus has a stunning coastline and a number of different types of towns that cater for all. From Ayia Napa with its busy and bustling nightlife to Paphos, which was the European Capital of Culture in 2017 and has a mix of modern buildings nestled against colonial and classical architecture. There is a lot of street art to be viewed in Limassol, together with museums of antiquities and the Sculpture Park on the seafront. Larnaca has a sandy strip of beach lined by a promenade that divides the beach from the city. Hidden away from the coast are the more traditional towns in the Troodos Mountains and I visited Omodos and Tochni. These beautiful little towns have a central church with a square and 22

small, winding roads leading off. It was in Georges Bakery in Omodos that we had a fun time making Cyprus Bread, a sweet yeasty bread that has a taste of cinnamon and topped with rose water and sesame seeds. The bread in Cyprus wasn’t the only tasty dish we ate; we had some delicious mezze of freshly caught fish, seafood and also traditional meat dishes. Cyprus also produces its own wine and we had a great morning of wine tasting and being shown around one of the small family run wineries. The wine produced at this winery was too dry even for my palate! This area is a world apart from the tourist hotspots with their remote painted churches and stunning scenery and villages where time appears to have stopped. But yet they are only about 40 minutes from Paphos and 20 minutes from Larnaca with the nearest beach 10 minutes away by car. Accommodation on Cyprus ranges from the large all-inclusive hotels to the small self-catering traditional apartments. Cyprus is a year round destination with an average temperature of 17c during the winter months. There are 3 UNESCO sites on the island, one of which is Nea Paphos, which has some of the most beautiful mosaics in the world, dating back to around the 12th Century. It is a beautiful and idyllic country that is steeped in history and I will definitely be returning and I can see why so many people return year after year. Emma Pierce – Travel Consultant, Truro

Newell’s T R AV E L

NEWS

Top Tips • Try the local cuisine • Visit the historical sites • Great short haul destination in the winter as well as the summer • Visit the local villages in the mountains as well as the beaches • Don’t forget sun-cream! 23

Newell’s T R AV E L

NEWS

Travellers Tales

Africa W

ell, what a holiday ... absolutely first rate. The local agents, Leopard Tours, fabulous guide, great rooms in the safari lodges and an upgrade at the Breezes in Zanzibar! Every courtesy and consideration was extended to us, we couldn’t have asked for better. Ngorongoro was fantastic, though the sides of the crater weren’t quite as steep as I remembered them from 1973, although the view from the top was still fabulous and the game was plentiful. We saw a wildebeest with a calf that had just been born (the placenta was still hanging outside the mother’s backside), a wonderful pride of lions very social, elephants, fairly newly born zebras, hippos, and gorgeous vistas, only blighted by the many other land cruisers and tourists that are there these days! We had one full day in the crater but that was about right. We then drove on to the Serengeti and had one and a half days game viewing. The short rains due last November/December failed so 24

Newell’s T R AV E L

everywhere was really quite dry although the guide said there had been a few short showers a couple of weeks before so some areas had greened up slightly. It meant that the annual migration was concentrated in a smaller area to feed off the green areas, so the density of the zebras and wildebeest was absolutely stunning and, although I’ve seen the migration on various wild life programmes over the years, there is nothing to beat witnessing it first-hand. There are 1.6 million zebra and between 7-9 million wildebeest which make the annual journey, everywhere you looked there they were. It also meant that there were lots of predators nearby licking their lips. We saw a pride of 18 lions, leopards in trees, three rhinos, two cheetahs (brothers), hyena a plenty - we even captured two on camera mating - jackals, more hippos, vultures on top of a carcass, gazelles being chased, action packed and compulsive viewing!

NEWS

After that we then went on to Lake Manyara. When I was there previously there were lions sitting in trees and lots of game, but our guide told us that there had been poaching and/or the animals had been killed by villagers years ago, so in the last 14 years he had never seen the lions either in trees or on the ground. It was mainly a place for birds and monkeys so we happily settled for that, but not one to necessarily recommend these days, alas. Finally we went to Zanzibar, where we stayed in a fantastic hotel. The hotel put on a Valentines night on our last evening, which was great fun. The sea here is tidal so when the tide came in we had a swim but the water wasn’t warm - it was HOT! Like a bath! After an exciting and fun-packed holiday we took stock and lounged on the beach, reading our books and enjoying doing very little - it’s tough holidaying in Africa! Jill & John Watmough

African Adventures

VIP door to door service The Land of Kilimanjaro

This amazing adventure is a great introduction to wildlife rich Kenya and Tanzania and the incredible natural wonders in the shadow of Kilimanjaro, the ‘roof of Africa.’ Staying in lodges and a tented camp you will be immersed in the natural world, as you discover the elephants of Amboseli, Lake Manyara’s blanket of flamingos, the Big 5 of the Serengeti and the teeming wildlife of the Ngorongoro Crater.

From £3599pp, 9 nights, 11th November 2019, Bristol. Includes optional travel insurance or a reduction if this is not required, 22 meals, 6 excursions/visits, return flights and transfers, local expert guide and porterage at all hotels.

Lakeside Lodge - Limpopo, South Africa

Spot the ‘big five’ on this all-inclusive safari holiday at an authentic game lodge in South Africa. The ‘big five’ roam freely – often within sight – of the African-styled and comfortable Lakeside Lodge. Set on the banks of the vast Entabeni Lake, the classic thatched, stone-built retreat offers seven magnificent game drives to ensure you don’t miss a thing on this small group holiday.

From £1799pp, 9 nights, 20th May 2019, Heathrow* Includes optional travel insurance or a reduction if this is not required, VIP door to door service, local expert guide, porterage at your hotel, return flights and transfers and excursions. *Flight upgrades available

For more information or to book call into your nearest Newell’s TRAVEL 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. Terms and Conditions apply. E&OE

Newell’s T R AV E L

NEWS

news New offices for Newell’s TRAVEL in Hayle

n 2014 Newell’s TRAVEL were approached by Kuoni Holidays and their Truro office became a partnership store and received a complete refurbishment as part of the new relationship. After receiving numerous complimentary and flattering comments regarding the new colour scheme and office appearance, it was decided that there should be a new corporate image across the whole company. By January 2019 all 11 Newell’s TRAVEL offices will have received their refurbishment and new branding. To much excitement, the Hayle office not only received an office refurbishment but moved to new larger premises just down the road at 49 Fore Street (next to Copperhouse Post Office) in October 2018. Kay, the manager, is known to many having worked for Newell’s TRAVEL since 1986, joining them straight from school. Cathy joined the team in January 2018 having moved from Winchester where she was the assistant manager at Hays Travel and the most recent team member is Maria, who worked at Harvey World Travel in St Austell. Between them all, they have pretty much covered the globe with their travels so you will be in safe, expert hands when you visit.

For the best value holidays to

BULGARIA

Book today & pay just

£49pp deposit

Direct flights from Bristol Airport

• We offer more flights, more hotels and more resorts than anyone else • Early booking discounts • Loyalty discounts • FREE child places • 20kgs luggage allowance and airport transfers included • Plus save up to an extra £160 per couple

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

Newell’s T R AV E L

NEWS

See more. Do more. Explore the world with the experts in escorted touring.

Why choose Cosmos?

Flights and overseas transfers

Accommodation and selected meals

Expertly guided excursions

For more information or to book call into your nearest Newell’s TRAVEL We are a member of ABTA and all of our flight inclusive holidays are fully protected by the CAA’s ATOL scheme. Our price match guarantee is applicable to touring holidays with the same inclusions as the Cosmos tour quoted and does not apply to cruise holidays. Please contact your travel agent for full details or visit 27 www.cosmos.co.uk/about-us/our-price-promise. Correct at time of print (8 January 2019)

COME ALONG TO BE IN WITH A CHANCE TO

WIN a Lake Garda

holiday for two from Newquay worth over £1,800

Sunday 3rd March

NEW VENUE: Truro College (Fal Building) College Road, Truro TR1 3XX

10:30am till 3:30pm - FREE ENTRY

Just visit www.newellstravel.co.uk/travel-show

Just some of the tour operators attending our show

Newell’s TRAVEL Independent and well connected

www.newellstravel.co.uk If you no longer wish to receive these mailings please contact: Newell’s TRAVEL Ltd, 26/27 Killigrew St, Falmouth, TR11 3PN.



Would you like a copy of Newell’s TRAVEL News sent to your home every issue? Let us know and we will post you a copy for FREE Name:.............................................................................. Address:............................................................................................................... ................................................................... Postcode:.........................................

Send this slip to Carol Ordidge 26/27 Killigrew Street, Falmouth, Cornwall, TR11 3PN or drop it into any branch of Newell’s TRAVEL