Escape

double uptwin- and multi-centre holidays

happy camperhitting the open roads of Oz

Summer 2009

late getaways, safaris, theme parks, watersports, city breaks and more...

relax

WIN

!

a ho

liday

to M

alay

sia

or A

ustral

ia

exclusive offers inside

time to

EXCLUSIVE OFFER FROM

Choose one of these great shows:

For more information and to book call Advantage FREE on

0800 215 5912Various booking periods and validity periods apply. Terms & conditions apply.

Prices/offers subject to change/availability

and get a 3-course meal at no additional cost

from £52.50 per person!

Prices quoted are per person based on two adults sharing the lowest grade cabinand are subject to availability. Offer cannot be claimed retrospectively or combinedwith any other offer. Fred. Olsen’s terms and conditions apply. Offer is subject toavailability and can be withdrawn or amended at any time, without prior notice. Fred.Olsen Cruise Lines reserves the right to amend itineraries and other arrangements foroperational reasons. Errors and omission excluded.

Portsmouth | Funchal (Madeira) | San Sebastian (La Gomera) | Santa Cruz (Tenerife)Las Palmas (Gran Canaria) | Lisbon (Portugal) | Portsmouth

Escape the Winter for some time in the sunshineand welcoming waters around the colourfulCanary Islands, without the hassle of flying andbaggage limitations.

Boudicca is equipped with extensive facilitiesincluding 2 outdoor pools, jacuzzis; 4 restaurants,alfresco dining; library; fitness centre; beautysalon; roulette and black jack tables and of courseyou can’t forget the legendary Fred. Olsen service.

For more information and to book callAdvantage FREE on 0800 215 5909

12 night Canaries cruise

on board Boudicca

Departing 06 December 2009

Prices from £889

PLUS £75 per cabinon board spend

Exclusive to Advantage

what

where

why

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Summer 2009

4 introducing...Advantage, Specialists in Travel

6 world viewLuxury for less in the Maldives

9 make a dateHot summer events

10 around the worldHeadlines from across the globe

12 snapshotsTop city breaks

15 a weekend for...Spa goers in Lake Geneva

18 summer hotspotsTop 10 late getaways

22 tastebudsMoreish Morocco

25 tailormadeGet more for your money with a

twin- or multi-centre holiday

30 making wavesNew ships, short trips

32 notebookHappy camping in Australia

36 special interestGet wet and wild this summer

38 spotlightAfrican safaris

42 experienceTheme parks and holiday thrills

45 travel spyOnboard two great train journeys

49 travel clinicYour travel queries answered

50 competitionWin a holiday to Malaysia!CO

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escape with Advantage 3

contents escape

CONTENTS

WHO ARE ADVANTAGE?Advantage has been established

for over 30 years and has more

than 700 independent travel agents

nationwide, from Inverness to

St. Ives and Belfast to Brighton.

With a wealth of experience and

knowledge, providing a friendly,

face-to-face service, our agents

can help fi nd the holiday that's right

for you. We have access to a wide

range of holiday companies and

can also dispel the myth that online

holidays are cheaper.

WHY BOOK WITH ADVANTAGE?Our agents are not tied in to any one

holiday company and so can offer a

huge choice of holiday options:

Package holidays: available

with all the top holiday companies

needs, providing you with the

benefi ts of great choice, competitive

pricing and knowledgeable staff;

enabling you to book the holiday you

want, with all the optional extras

that’ll help make your trip just that

bit more memorable.

WHAT ELSE?Don't forget many of the prices

and offers within this magazine

are exclusive so are only available

through Advantage travel agents.

Plus, call any of the phone numbers

featured and you won't be charged

a penny.** Let us take care of your

holiday so you can sit back, relax

— all you'll need to do is pack!

*Participating travel agents only. Enquire on booking.

**Calls may not be free from mobiles. Check with

your service provider.

INTRODUCING...

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Specialist holidays: tailor

holidays to your specifi c needs

and requirements

Worldwide hotels: no

destination is too near or too far

Flights: any airline, anywhere,

with a choice of value-for-money

options or fi rst class all the way

Attractions and sightseeing: book before you go, save money and

avoid disappointment

Airport hotels: avoid that early

morning start and begin your

holiday stress free

Airport parking: combine

parking with your hotel or book it

on its own

Foreign currency*With such a breadth of choice,

Advantage agents really are a

one-stop shop for all of your travel

4 escape with Advantage

escape Advantage

escapeONLINE

SUMMER IS OFFICIALLY here and

if all the weather geek’s predictions

ring true it looks set to be an

absolute scorcher.

If you haven’t yet booked your

holiday, don’t panic, there are still

plenty of options for you to choose

from, be it in the UK or overseas.

Check out our choice of top 10 late

getaways (p.18) for inspiration.

If you’re looking to try something

different this year, read our twin-

and multi-centre feature (p.25) to

fi nd out how you can combine two or

more destinations into one holiday.

Doubling up on countries can mean

double the memories.

Short on time? A spa weekend in

Lake Geneva (p.15) could be for you

and if you’re a city slicker, head to our snapshots pages

(p.12) for a rundown of what to do downtown in cities

across the world.

But if it’s the great outdoors you’re craving, the open

road of Oz (p.32) could prove just the trick while our

choice of safaris (p.38) is sure to get you packing those

binoculars. To top it all off, we reveal the best places to

get wet and wild for watersports this summer (p.36) and

the biggest theme parks for all the family (p.42).

Congratulations to Mrs Susan Marsden from

Somerset who was the lucky winner of our spring issue

West End Theatre Break competition. Why not enter this

issue’s competition (p.50). Good luck!

Feel free to drop me a line to share your views of the

magazine at [email protected]

Advantage21 Provost StreetLondon N1 7NH

Chief Executive: John McEwanMarketing Executive, Leisure: Annette SherrardMarketing Communications Executive: Emma Smith

escape is published on behalf of Advantage by Absolute Publishing Ltd

Editorial Director: Maria PieriEditor: Chris PeacockSenior Editor: Katie Reich-StorerContributing Editors: Alex Dalzell, Jo Gardner, Kellie Smith, Pat Riddell, Sam Lewis, Sonia Soltani Sub Editor: Brian RichardsArt Editor: Chris HudsonProduction Manager: Adam SmithProduction Controller: Gemma BruceSales Director: Matthew MidworthChief Executive: Anthony LeyensManaging Director: Matthew JacksonPublisher: Peter LevingerOffi ce Manager: Carly BellOffi ce Assistant: Corinne PickupFinancial Controller: Taurai MangeziCredit Control Manager: Craig ChappellCredit Control Assistant: Siobhan Grover

Absolute Publishing Ltd197-199 City RoadLondon EC1V 1JN

Editorial Tel: 020 7253 9906Email: [email protected]/Admin Tel: 020 7253 9909Sales/Admin Fax: 020 7253 9907Email: [email protected]

Advantage travel agents are agents for ATOL protected operators. Prices are correct at the time of going to print (May 2009) and subject to availability. Tour operators’ terms and conditions apply. The entire contents are protected by copyright and all rights are reserved. Reproduction of this magazine in whole or part is not permitted without written permission. The views expressed in the magazine are not necessarily the views of Advantage or the publisher. Whilst care has been taken to avoid inaccuracy, no responsibility can be taken for errors or omissions.

Read escape wherever you are. Find our online magazine at www.loveyourtravelagent.com

Summer 2009

Chris PeacockEditor

It’s never too late to get your hands on a last minute holiday to chase the sun. Check out our top 10 late getaways


welcome escape

WELCOME

PICTURE THIS. TRANQUIL,

emerald waters stretching far

into the distance dotted with

sugar-white, sand islands. You’re

whisked away by private boat

to your chosen resort for some

unadulterated indulgence, where

the hardest decision of your day is

going for another swim or kicking

back with a few cocktails.

Welcome to the Maldives,

an archipelago of over a

thousand islands scattered

in the Indian Ocean, with

a long-held reputation for

Synonymous with exclusive fi ve-star luxury, the Maldives is opening up to everyone, says Chris Peacockluxury for less

offering incomparable luxury

and exclusivity — the majority of

resorts are situated on their own

private islands. Catering for the

rich and famous — Tom Cruise

and Madonna have holidayed here

over the years — with fi ve-star

resorts galore, you might think the

Maldives simply out of your league.

Good news though: the new man

in charge — president Mohamed

Nasheed — is looking to make the

islands more affordable with plans

to develop the country’s mid-range

market of hotels and resorts.

Nasheed, who’s already been

called the ‘Obama of the Indian

Ocean’ said: “The average British

person should be able to come to

enjoy the Maldives and see the sun,

the sea and the sand.”

Eventually it’s believed locals

will benefi t through more jobs

with money ploughed back into

eco-projects and preservation

work, while more visitors will

mean a greater understanding of

Maldivian culture and heritage.

Soon you could be getting luxury

for less...


what world view

escape with Advantage: for

more information on the

Maldives call FREE on 0800 215 5923 or visit www.loveyourtravelagent.com

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world view what


Terms & Conditions: Prices are per person based on twin share. Price includes return Economy Class flights, 3 nights accommodation on a bed and breakfast basisas specified and pre-payable taxes. Valid for departures from London Gatwick, from 07 Jun - 15 Jul 09. Regional departures are available at an extra supplement,please ask at time of booking. Book by 14 Jul 09. Subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply. Prices correct at time of print.

ATLANTIS, THE PALMDUBAI from £679pp

For more information and to book call Advantage FREE on 0800 215 5905

THIS EXCLUSIVE PRICE FOR ADVANTAGE’S CUSTOMERS INCLUDES:• 3 nights accommodation at the 5 Star Atlantis, The Palm• Return flights with Emirates• Daily breakfast

PLUS• Complimentary entry to the exclusive Sanctuary nightclub• Preferential prices on dolphin play at Dolphin Bay• Unlimited access to Aquaventure and The Lost Chambers

A 5 Star hotel with 42 acres of thrilling water slides, river rides,plunges and pools and 65,000 marine animals swimming amidancient Atlantean ruins.

make a [date] Alex Dalzell tracks down the hottest events this summer...

escape with Advantage: travel

to all these top destinations by

calling FREE on 0800 215 5923 or visit

www.loveyourtravelagent.com

AUGUSTLA TOMATINAOn the last Wednesday of August

around 40,000 people from all over

the world come to chuck tomatoes

in the Spanish town of Bunol, 40km

west of Valencia. Why? Well, in

theory to honour the town’s patron

saint, but in practice we think it’s for

the sheer thrill of lobbing several

hundred tonnes of squishy fruit at

complete and utter strangers!

[26]

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[16-19] JULYBRITISH OPENThe oldest of the four major golf championships

and one of the world’s most prestigious competitions. This year, Tiger

Woods and co. will be battling it out on the par-70 Turnberry golf course

in Scotland for a share of the generous £4 million prize pot. JULY — 4 AUGUSTANTIGUA CARNIVALThe colourful parades, the Miss

Antigua Pageant and the Caribbean

Queen Competition are just a few

highlights here. But it’s the sunrise

J’ouvert Carnival that shouldn’t be

missed — it’s surprising how good

rum punch tastes in the morning!

[23]

AUGUSTBERLIN BEER FESTIVALCan’t wait for Oktoberfest? Then

how about drinking in the world’s

longest beer garden — 1,600

metres to be precise. Berlin’s

annual beer festival attracts

around a million punters with over

a mile of stalls offering the fi nest

beer from across Germany.

[7-9]AUGUST — 6 SEPTEMBEREDINBURGH INTERNATIONAL FESTIVALFor three weeks this summer,

theatre companies and upcoming

acts the world over descend on the

Scottish capital. Pretty much any

space that can hold seats and a

stage is turned into a venue with the

city buzzing with energy 24/7.

[14]

make a date what


around the world Kellie Smith searches the globe for travel headlines

If adrenalin-pumping theme park

rides are your thing, head over to

the States to experience one of

this year’s hottest new attractions.

the Hollywood Rip, Ride & Rockit

rollercoaster at Universal Orlando.

Rising 167ft into the air before

plunging riders through crazy

loops and corkscrew turns, the

wow factor is its personalised

touch, allowing you to choose your

own music during the ride for a

customised take-home video. Add

some funky sight and sound options

and you have a roller coaster

experience like no other. Intrigued?

We certainly are...

USA

Fancy sailing around the Med

or the Baltics to taste wine and

tuck into tasty food? Then hop

aboard a Crystal Cruise and take a

Crystal Adventures culinary shore

excursion, introduced this year.

Enjoy a hosted dinner in a Bordeaux

chateau, wine tasting with a

four-course lunch at a Sorrento

farmhouse, or sign up for cooking

lessons in Lisbon. Back on board,

the good living continues with an

eclectic wine cellar and speciality

restaurants featuring signature

dishes from Nobu Matsuhisa and

Piero Selvaggio.

EUROPE

Now’s the perfect time to head to

Kenya as the wildebeest migration

season gets underway. From July to

October, nearly 1.5 million animals

head for the pastures of the Masai

Mara. Get your camera lens ready

as wildebeest and zebra battle the

raging currents of the Mara River

— and the submerged snapping

crocodiles — to reach the lush

vegetation on the other side.

AFRICA

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what around the world

Dubai continues to astound the

world, with the widely anticipated

completion of Burj Dubai — the

world’s tallest building — on

schedule to open on 9 September

2009. As well as housing luxury

hotels and apartments, the building

will feature an impressive public

viewing tower. And surrounding it,

Downtown Burj Dubai will be the

site of the new Dubai Fountain — an

incredible water feature spanning

the length of two football fi elds!

Dubai’s new metro system also

opens in September, making it

easier to see the city’s attractions.

MIDDLE EAST

As the far eastern island of Taiwan

gears up to host two major summer

sporting events, why not look to

holidaying somewhere different

this year. The World Games, under

the patronage of the International

Olympic Committee, kicks off in

Kaohsiung on 16 July, featuring

non-Olympic sports such as

orienteering, water-skiing and

squash. The island also hosts the

21st Summer Deafl ympics in the

capital Taipei (5-15 September),

showcasing sports such as

basketball, beach volleyball,

wrestling and athletics.

ASIA

Bird twitchers will be happy to

hear that after a 100-year absence,

one of New Zealand’s nationally

endangered bird species — the

South Island tieke or saddleback

— has found its way home to South

Island’s mainland. A population of

40 birds have been released into the

Orokonui Ecosanctuary, one of New

Zealand’s newest wildlife projects.

Orokonui hopes to reintroduce

other species including kiwi.

NEW ZEALAND

escape with Advantage: for more

details on all these fantastic

regions, call FREE on 0800 215 5923 or

visit www.loveyourtravelagent.com

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Clockwise from left: Universal Orlando; grapes in the sun; Taipei at sunset; the Burj Dubai; kiwi crossing sign; migrating wildebeest

around the world what


Jeannine Williamson puts the spotlight on top city breaks around the world

Why: One of the world’s most visited capital cities, London is packed with bags of royalty, pageantry and history. And with more than 200 free attractions, you can see a lot for very little.

Stay: In a leafy riverside spot, the bright and airy Chiswick Moran Hotel is quiet and close to the Underground. But Bayswater’s good value Byron Hotel, originally two Victorian houses, is a great location for exploring.

See: Buckingham Palace, the Queen’s offi cial residence, where

the Changing of the Guard takes place at 11.30am every day. After other classic photo opportunities, such as Big Ben and Tower Bridge, head for Covent Garden, packed with shops and cafes.

Eat: Th e rooftop OXO Tower restaurant, brasserie and bar serve up great food and enviable views in equal measure.

Hot spot: Th e buzzing South Bank is home to iconic attractions such as the London Eye, along with galleries, theatres and al fresco bars overlooking the Th ames.

london//for attractions

venice//for romance

Why: Th e watery city home of gondoliers, the Grand Canal, Bridge of Sighs and St Mark’s Square has been a legendary destination for centuries.

Stay: Overlooking the Grand Canal, Hotel Principe is perfectly placed for discovering Venice by foot or by water on a vaporetto. Th e 11-room Feel Inn is a cosy, aff ordable property in Campalto, 15 minutes outside Venice.

See: Start with St Mark’s, the grandest square in Venice. It’s dominated by the Basilica of the same name and the Doges’ Palace, where Venetian rulers lived from the ninth century. Th en stroll along the Grand Canal, with its famous Rialto Bridge and shops.

Eat: A hop from St Mark’s Square, Restaurant Al Giardinetto has been serving traditional Venetian cuisine for over 50 years.

Hot spot: Venice is a city made for wandering (and getting lost in), but art lovers should head to the Accademia Gallery, packed with breathtaking European art treasures on a grand scale.


where snapshots

snap//shots

next//time...nneext

new york//for shopping

Why: From nights on Broadway to the towering architectural landmarks of Manhattan, few cities conjure up such an evocative image. New York is the stuff of dreams, movies and surely one of the world’s most exciting cities.

Stay: SoHo takes its name from SOuth of HOuston Street, with the SoHo Grand a cool and sophisticated retreat. Meanwhile, be it bunk beds or themed suites, the eclectic Gershwin Hotel off ers rooms to suit all budgets.

See: Top of the list is the Statue of Liberty, one of the world’s fi nest icons, and the equally seminal art deco Empire State Building. Next, draw breath in Central Park, before heading to Times Square to enjoy a taste of the Big Apple by night.

Eat: Th e award-winning Union Square Cafe serves seasonal American food with a distinctly Italian soul.

Hot spot: Shop ’til you drop, or simply people watch, on Fifth Avenue and Madison Avenue, where shop front names read like a ‘who’s who’ of fashion greats.

Why: Estonia’s capital is an incredibly stylish city, with one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval Old Towns and fairytale architecture refl ecting Tallinn’s Golden Age between the 15th and 16th centuries.

Stay: Th e four-star fl agship of the Meriton group, the Meriton Grand occupies a prime location overlooking the historic city wall. Th e reasonably priced City Hotel Portus is also within easy walking distance of the main sights.

See: Pass through the Viru Gates to the Old Town for ornate houses and magnifi cent churches. Th en climb the steps of the 13th-century St Olav’s Church, once the world’s tallest building, for rewarding panoramic views.

Eat: Go medieval with food and entertainment from the Middle Ages at Olde Hansa, inside a former merchant’s house.

Hot spot: Th e square in front of Tallinn’s Town Hall has been a focal point for centuries and today it’s home to outdoor cafes, markets and open-air concerts.

tallinn//for history


further details on all these top city breaks, call FREE on 0800 215 5923 or


EDINBURGHWriter Robert Louis Stevenson

said: “Edinburgh is what Paris

ought to be.” Discover its mix

of medieval lanes, elegant

terraces and imposing castle

alongside a surprisingly

modern and dynamic city.

KRAKOWPoland’s ancient royal

capital until 1596, Krakow

has a UNESCO-listed Old

Town with Europe’s largest

market square, jaw-droppingly

beautiful buildings and a

Gothic cathedral that’s the

burial place of kings.

BUDAPESTDivided by the Danube and built

on thermal springs, Budapest is

the only capital city in the world

that’s also a major spa town.

Grand Hungarian boulevards

and majestic buildings contrast

with quaint cobbled streets.

TORONTOFrom the glass fl oor

observation deck of the world’s

highest public building, CN

Tower, to the natural wonder

of Niagara Falls, less than two

hours’ drive away, Canada’s

largest city offers plenty of

amazing sights to wow you.

SINGAPOREIt may be small, covering just

240sq miles, but south-east

Asia’s ultra-safe garden city

packs a punch with stunning

temples, colourful tropical

parks, a colonial heritage and

great shopping malls.

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From left: the London Eye; mask in Venice; taxis on Fifth Avenue; Tallinn skyline

snapshots where


FOR INFO & TO BOOK CALL:

0800 215 5914

91202952 V5573891

FLY TO

CYPRUSFROM YOUR

LOCAL AIRPORT USING SCHEDULED

CHARTER & “NO-FRILLS” FLIGHTS

Terms and conditions apply. Offers applicable to selected winter 2009/10 departure dates. Free meal subjectto two adults sharing a standard room for a minimum of 7 nights. Subject to availability.

to Advantage Customers– COMPLIMENTARY DINNER FOR TWO

AT YOUR HOTEL IN CYPRUS

PLUS FREE car hire for Winter 2009 -10 holidaysask your Advantage Agent for more info

EXCLUSIVE

SAIL FROM SOUTHAMPTONONBOARD INDEPENDENCE OF THE SEAS IN 201010 night Canary Islands FROM £899pp*

Plus, receive $50†† per stateroom onboard spendexclusive to Advantage customers.

For more information and to book call Advantage FREE on 0800 215 5907SAVE

* Price is per person based on two people sharing a category Q Interior Stateroom departing Southampton on 25 April 2010 (cruise only). Price subject toincrease/withdrawal at any time & subject to availability. **Save up to £200 per stateroom offer is £100pp (maximum saving £200 per stateroom) for newbookings created & confirmed by 31 July 2009 & applicable to selected Independence of the Seas sailings departing Southampton in 2010. Savings areincluded in the price featured. † Free car parking at Southampton is applicable to new bookings created & confirmed by 31 July 2009 & must be booked by 31 December 2009, one free car parking space per booking, subject to availability. Free car parking and the save up to £200 offer applicable to sailings of 10 nights or more excluding transatlantic sailings. ††Onboard spend applicable to new bookings created & confirmed by 30 June 2009 & applicable to bookings for the Independence of the Seas 25 April 2010 departure, only when booked through Advantage. Terms & conditions apply.

UP TO £200**

PER STATEROOM

AND GET FREE†

CAR PARKING

SPA GOERS IN LAKE GENEVA

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Crisp, clean air, laid-back activities and top-of-the-range spas make Lake Geneva a hit for a relaxing weekend break, says Leo Bear — and then there’s the Swiss chocolate...

LAKE GENEVA HAS long been regarded as one of the world’s best spa destinations by virtue of its cutting edge treatments and expert therapists, not to mention the region’s clean air and rolling green hills backed by snowy alpine peaks.

Recently, Lake Geneva has upped its glamour factor, too, with hotels such as the Lausanne Palace & Spa becoming one of the fi rst members of the prestigious group of Leading Spas of the World; and the Fairmont Le Montreux Palace adding a snazzy Freddie Mercury Suite to its plush corridors.

Th ere are plenty of resorts to choose from, no matter what your budget is, from three-star chalet-style hotels to palatial award-winning destination spas.

MORE TOP SWISS SPA RESORTS

Beau-Site Hotel: Two minutes from the centre of

Adelboden, this three-star hotel boasts spectacular

views of the surrounding mountains. Its spa offers

a sauna, steam baths, massages and oriental spa

baths for soothing away any aches and pains.

Ferienart Resort & Spa: This fi ve-star

chalet-style resort in Saas Fee provides excellent

service, outstanding cuisine and a friendly, relaxed

atmosphere. It features a great spa offering

Ayurvedic treatments, hot stone therapy and a

beautiful indoor pool. Try a Rasul Bath for two.

Solis Cambrian Hotel & Spa: If it’s luxury you’re

after, then look no further — nestled within the

picture-perfect village of Adelboden, this world-

class hideaway is a true Alpine sanctuary. Spa Solis

is ideal for indulging in a facial or massage.

Chalet RoyAlp Hotel & Spa: This new resort

opened at the end of last year and is built like a

typical yet chic chalet in the village of Villars-

sur-Ollon. The spa impresses with an extensive

treatment list and top-of-the-range Swiss products,

Cellcosmet and Cellman.

But best of all, Lake Geneva has a wealth of activities on off er, so while you wrap yourself in a fl uff y dressing gown, your friends and family can enjoy a break, too.

Take your pick, from swimming, hiking and cycling to discovering the secrets of cheese and chocolate making. Th e lake itself is a paradise for watersports enthusiasts and for a change of scenery, just a short train ride away are some of Switzerland’s prettiest towns, including St Moritz and Gstaad.

a weekend for.. .

a weekend for... where


travelBUDDY

Gstaad. Above: The Willow Stream Spa

FRIDAYFirst up, check into the Fairmont Le Montreux Palace featuring the Willow Stream Spa, before visiting Lausanne on the shore of Lake Geneva for a relaxed morning wandering the Old Town’s cobbled streets. Discover the many gift shops and boutiques, and some good value restaurants. In the afternoon, pop into the International Olympic Museum, housing an excellent exhibition recounting the story of the Olympic Games. Back at the hotel, treat yourself to some pampering with the Edelweiss Escape (90mins). Th e treatment starts with an invigorating salt exfoliation to improve circulation, followed by an energy stone massage and soothing wrap high in antioxidants. Fully revitalised, head for the world-famous Harry’s Bar within the hotel for some well-earned cocktails.

SATURDAYEmbrace your inner child with a visit to Callier Chocolate Factory in Broc — just a short journey by train. Here you can dip your fi nger in lots of diff erent types of chocolate and learn the meaning of ‘proper’ tasting techniques. If you’re not well and truly sated on sugar, why not continue the decadent theme back at the hotel with a Choco Fango anti-ageing treatment (60mins). You’ll be enveloped in a decadent wrap and applied with lotion featuring cocoa (of course), a cocktail of natural ingredients to fi ght free radicals and shea butter — an active fat extracted from the seeds of the shea tree, which helps fi rm the skin. After letting the chocolate work its magic for the afternoon, dine in style at La Brasserie du Palace, the hotel’s authentic Parisian brasserie.

SUNDAYTake a trip to Gstaad, easy to reach by train and well worth a visit. Not only is it breathtakingly beautiful, but you might fi nd yourself rubbing shoulders with the odd celebrity. Th e pedestrianised promenade is lined with designer shops, great for posing and browsing. For lunch, grab a table on the grand terrace of the world-famous Gstaad Palace Hotel. In the afternoon, you could either check into the Gstaad Palace’s new Spa & Health Club or take a cable car into the mountains for an exhilarating hike. Back at the Fairmont, you’ll have earned yourself some ‘Peace and Quiet’ — a relaxing Ayurvedic treatment (60mins) where warm herb-infused oil is massaged on to your head, neck and shoulders. Afterwards, try the Pure Luxury Facial (60mins), which feeds, moisturises, stimulates and protects your skin. It’s a holistic therapy promoting relaxation as well as smoother, more radiant skin.

When to go: June to September, when alpine temperatures are warmer so you can enjoy the outdoors in between treatments. Flying time: 1.5hrs. Currency: Swiss franc. £1 = CHF1.70.

Time: GMT +1. Languages: French, Italian, German, Romansh and English. Typical cost: Spa weekend packages for two start from £1,383 at the Fairmont Le Montreux Palace.

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escape with Advantage: travel to Lake Geneva. Call FREE on 0800 215 5923 or visit www.loveyourtravelagent.com

where a weekend for...


For further information or to book your ocean-view suite call Advantage FREE on 0800 215 5910.

Aboard Silversea’s award-winning fleet you will find a most accommodating place to view our world. Here are days relishing the rare and embracing the exotic. With no more than 382 guests, our intimate vessels deliver the ultimate all-inclusive holiday providing the highest standards of all-suite accommodation and sublime service that is both refined and relaxed.

For a limited time, Silversea is offering astonishing savings of up to 50% on select voyages and with fares from £1,398* per person, there has never been a better time to experience the unparalleled, all-inclusive luxury of Silversea.

SILVER SAILING SAVINGS OF UP TO 50%

* Fare shown is per person based on double occupancy of a vista suite on a Mahé to Mahé voyage departing 13 December 2009. Port charges, government fees and taxes are included. Savings are capacity controlled, subject to availability and may be withdrawn without notice. Full terms & conditions apply.

Terms & Conditions: Free flight offer is subject to availability of appropriate economy class seats and only applicable on selected voyage departure dates from selected airports from 1 June to 27 September 2009 if booked by 31 July 2009. Open to new bookings only and cannot be applied retrospectively. All known taxes and fees are included. No cash or equivalent or alternative value can be placed with this offer. *Price is per person on a full board basis based on two people travelling together sharing a twin inside cabin/room. Included is an overnight stay in Bergen on B&B basis. †£100 onboard credit is valid for two people sharing a cabin. Single travellers will receive £50 onboard credit.

For more information and to book call Advantage FREE on

0800 215 5908

V7545

12 DAY FULL-BOARD VOYAGE£100 ONBOARD CREDIT†

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Norway’s coastal scenery is spectacular and its wildlife captivating. Hurtigruten, having been an integral part of Norwegian coastal life for over a century, know these waters better than anyone else. On your 12-day voyage you will call at over 30 ports, many of which are in areas inaccessible to other, larger cruise lines, ensuring that you’re taken closer to the heart of Norway. From the midnight sun of summer through the changing seasons that set the rhythm of life for the locals, you will experience the friendly and truly Norwegian way of life on the authentic Norwegian voyage.

ENJOY FREE INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS AND £100 WORTH OF ONBOARD CREDIT THIS SUMMER WHEN YOU BOOK A CLASSIC ROUND VOYAGE WITH HURTIGRUTEN!

GET CLOSER TO NORWAY FOR LESS!

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BOOK BY 31 JULY 2009

B E R G E N ~ K I R K E N E S ~ B E R G E N

FREE FLIGHTSSAVE UP TO £420 PER PERSON

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CHANNEL ISLANDSIf you don’t want to go far this year, these fi ve islands off er the best of British and

the fi nest of France, with an island to suit every tempo. Herm, Sark and Alderney serve up relaxed, seaside village-like escapes, with quiet coastal inlets and lots of fl ora and fauna to enjoy, while Guernsey and Jersey off er everything from cosy pubs to slick restaurants. Th e islands are easily accessible by air and ferry and this year, new low-cost fl ights from Plymouth to Guernsey provide another aff ordable option. Just the ticket!

There’s never been a better time to book a late getaway. Paul Oswell suggests the hottest places to visit — all just a short hop from the UK

CROATIACroatia’s been hot on the radar for some time now, but as more Brits consider countries outside the eurozone that aren’t too far from home, this could be a scorching summer for the country. It’s an incredibly diverse and timeless European destination with an

EGYPT Sun-starved Brits have been fl ocking to Egypt’s Red Sea resorts for years,

but numbers are set to swell as more of us are curious to discover what bargains await. Egypt is hard to beat for truly top-class historical treasures, with some of the most impressive wonders of the ancient world. Relax on a seven-night Nile river cruise, visit Luxor’s impressive Valley of the Kings or soak up the bustling atmosphere of Cairo before heading out to see the Great Pyramids and Sphinx.

SUMMER IS HERE, but if you’ve yet to book a holiday, don’t fret, as there’s still a huge variety of great deals to be snapped up. And with non-euro destinations now getting their fair share of the holiday limelight too, there’s never been so much choice on off er.

So whether your idea of holiday heaven is two weeks tanning on a sun lounger; playing golf by day and gorging on gourmet food by night; or just time wandering around the old town in a new city, there’s a holiday out there waiting for you, even if you’ve decided to book last-minute .

enviable 1,200-mile stretch of Dalmatian coastline, featuring fantastic beaches and sleepy fi shing villages. Renaissance architecture and the Adriatic coast make Dubrovnik a perfect backdrop for a city break, while the medieval streets of Zagreb are also winning fans.

1From left: Rovinj, Croatia;

Sark coastline; the Blue Mosque, Istanbul;

Bedouin and camel

where summer hotspots


fi ve

5 FRANCE Th e proximity of France, and frequent channel and rail services, makes it easy for Brits to hop across the channel. Food, wine and seductive landscapes are among the things the French do best and you can appreciate them all with a spot of chateau-hopping in the Loire Valley. Wine lovers will appreciate the centuries-old vineyards in the viticulture hotspots of Languedoc and Burgundy, while beach-friendly island life is high on the agenda in the current holiday hotspot of Corsica, served by a number of airlines and holiday companies.

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Another hotspot for bargain hunters looking to escape the eurozone, Turkey off ers beach life and culture in droves without breaking the bank. Istanbul is where Asia meets Europe, and this incredible city mixes mosques and minarets with stylish bars and restaurants. Beach resorts are also well-established, with the harbour of Antalya and the South Aegean blue seas of Bodrum perfect for families and couples alike. Take to the seas in a traditional gulet for a mini-cruise with a diff erence. 4

TUNISIA Just two-and-a-half hours from the UK, Tunisia is one of the most accessible African destinations for Europeans. Th e maze of souks and mosques in the medina of Tunis are a perfect distillation of the local atmosphere. Hammamet and Monastir are well-established beach resorts, with all the facilities a family could need. Romantic couples might want to consider the rural hideaways of Djerba or the sand dunes in Douz, while golfers should look at the country’s seriously cheap green fees.

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summer hotspots where


tenescape with Advantage: for details

on all these summer hotspots,

call FREE on 0800 215 5923 or visit

www.loveyourtravelagent.com

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it’s hard to beat Rome, Florence and Venice for sheer beauty and sightseeing. If the stunning Tuscan countryside, along with its gourmet food, doesn’t appeal to you, the Mediterranean coastlines of Sardinia and Sicily surely will. Alternatively, why not add to your designer wardrobe in trendy Milan or relax in the rural splendour of the Amalfi coast.

9 GREECE Last year’s blockbuster Mamma Mia! put a smile on many Brits’ faces and as Greece off ers value for money, the islands could prove more than a Hollywood dream for holidaymakers. For culture vultures, it’s hard to beat ancient Athens, but the Greek islands are as varied as they are numerous, with party islands such as Mykonos, elegant hideaways like Santorini and rural idylls such as Symi. Crete and Corfu have great choices for families and there are some top villa deals, too.

CYPRUS Not many places can rival Cyprus for getting some last-minute summer sun. But it’s the ancient mosaics and temples found in Paphos, the beaches and year-round weather pulling in the bigger crowds these days. Cyprus is now in the eurozone, so budget by opting for an all-inclusive or ask Advantage about any late villa deals going. With new fl ights running from Gatwick to Larnaca, Cyprus is getting more and more accessible with prices becoming more competitive.

ITALYTh ere’s no one like 007 to put somewhere on the map, as Italy’s Lake Garda found out this year thanks to key scenes in Bond’s Quantum of Solace. But while housing half the world’s art treasures, Italian cities are like living museum exhibitions, and

10 SPAINMadrid, Barcelona and Valencia are big hitters for truly memorable city breaks, each off ering an individual take on Spanish culture. Expect plenty of buzz this summer, as 2009 marks the 70th anniversary of the end of the Spanish Civil War. Th e museums, architecture and tapas bars are perfect for couples, while the Spanish Costas are legendary family resorts and, coupled with the Canary Islands, are unparalleled for sun, sea and sangria.

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Child playing on the beach, Cyprus. Left: Florence.

Below: Spanish tapas

where summer hotspots


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For more information and to book call Advantage FREE on 0800 215 5913*£67 per person for 7 nights based on 6 sharing a chalet, Hemsby Beach Holiday Park in Great Yarmouth, Norfolk. Prices applicable on selected arrival dates between 25 July and 29 August 2009 and are subject to availability. Hoseasons’ terms and conditions apply. +Exclusive free family games bag applies to bookings with at least one child in the party, booked between 1st – 30th June for any 2009 holiday. One games bag per booking only. Applies to new bookings only and is subject to availability. Exclusive free family games bag includes: playing cards, Frisbee, beach ball, colouring book and crayons.

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ON THE PLATE

Ben Lerwill fi nds foodie heaven in the carnivorous tagines, sweet pastries and ubiquitous mint tea of Morocco

MOROCCO HOLDS MANY

treasures — it’s a land of swarming souks, ancient mosques and spice-scented mysticism, and while the bustle of the street and colours of the market are integral parts of the overall experience, so too are the treats of the dining table.

Nowhere are the country’s traditions more in evidence than in its famed national cuisine. When you fi nish a long lunch and fi nd yourself immediately looking forward to the evening meal, you know you’re somewhere that takes its food seriously.

Like all aspects of Moroccan life, its cooking is brimming with diverse infl uences, a fact stemming from the nation’s eventful history. Over the generations royal cooks have perfected the use of herbs and spices — saff ron, cumin, ginger, turmeric and coriander all still fi gure prominently.

Today’s menus incorporate Arab, Middle Eastern, Jewish, Berber, African, French and

Mediterranean fl avours, among others. Meals will often start with a selection of soups or hot and cold salads, before moving on to a heartier main course. Dessert usually comes in the form of sweet pastries or seasonal fruit, while mint tea is the drink of choice.

Th e most famed dish is the tagine, an aromatic stew, steam-cooked in an earthenware dish. Found across the country, it has its origins in the portable clay ovens carried by nomads and remains a staple of the local cuisine. Classic tagines include chicken with lemon and olives and lamb with prunes and almonds — the thick, spicy sauce is served with couscous, or mopped up with bread.

A tagine in a good traditional restaurant, complete with rich decor and low ornamental tables, has become a quintessential part of the Moroccan holiday experience. Many other popular dishes are also based on a similar blend of meat, spices and fresh vegetables.

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of vegetables, including onions,

carrots and squash. Mechoui: Popular at festivals, mechoui is a roasted leg of lamb, historically cooked on a slowing-turning spit. The Arabic word means ‘to roast on a fi re’. The meat is heavily spiced before being served.

Pastilla: Served as a succulent savoury pie, pastilla consists of puff pastry stuffed with squab (pigeon) meat, fl avoured with assorted spices like cinnamon. Harira: A thick spicy soup, usually based on chickpeas and lentils. Popular over Ramadan, harira can be served as a starter or as a meal in itself.

Djaja Mahamara: Chicken stuffed with almonds, raisins and couscous. It can be found in most parts of the country, usually in traditional restaurants. Fez-style couscous: An aromatic dish of couscous served with a stew of lamb, chicken or beef, together with a multitude

Lamb is considered the tastiest meat by locals (and is generally the most costly), although beef, chicken and — particularly on the coast — seafood are also common options. While the country is still something of a carnivore’s delight, fresh and tasty vegetarian dishes are increasingly available, too.

Moroccan food comes in many forms, from the sizzling grills of Djemaa el Fna in Marrakech to the honeyed delicacies of elegant restaurants. Its evolution over the centuries into one of the world’s most inventive cuisines continues to prove a high point for

holidaymakers.

moreishmorocco


where tastebuds

TABLE SERVICE

how to cook...

LAMB TAGINE6 tbsp olive oil4 onions, sliced2 tsp chopped ginger2kg lamb shoulder, cut into chunks4 tsp ground cumin2 tsp paprika and

ground coriander2 cinnamon sticks850ml passata700g chopped sweet potatoes350g pitted datesSliced almondsFresh coriander

Serves 10 Heat oil in large pan. Add onions,

then gently fry until softened. Stir in

the ginger, add the meat in batches.

Fry until meat lightly coloured.

Return all the meat to the pan, stir

in the spices and cinnamon sticks,

then cook for 1min.

Add the passata and 800ml

water, bring to the boil, stirring.

Season well. Cover and simmer for

1½hrs, until lamb is tender.

Add sweet potatoes, stir well,

cover again, then cook for 20mins

or until the potatoes are just tender.

Stir in the dates and heat for

5mins. Season if necessary. To

serve, spoon the tagine into a dish

and scatter with almonds and fresh

coriander to fi nish.

in the kitchen

Palais Gharnata, Marrakech: Beautifully appointed with

billowing drapes and ornate

pillars, this restaurant occupies

a 16th-century house in

Marrakech. Pastilla and roast

lamb are specialities.

Al Fassia, Fez: Located in the

130-year-old Palais Jamai Hotel,

Al Fassia offers the full ‘Arabian

Nights’ experience, complete with

belly-dancing and live music. The

menu is classic Moroccan and

diners are seated on banquettes.

La Licorne, Essaouira: Serving up traditional Moroccan

fare, La Licorne has won a

number of awards. Royal

couscous and sweet-and-sour

tagines are celebrated dishes.

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further details on travelling to

Morocco, call FREE on 0800 215 5923 or visit www.loveyourtravelagent.com

Lamb tagine. Below left: Pastilla


tastebuds where

With our new twin centre itineraries you can explore everything that Hong Kong and Macau have to offer:

Hong Kong:Hong Kong is a non-stop, fast-moving metropolis with one of the world’s most recognisable skylines, its scintillating atmosphere is almost impossible to describe - you have to see it, smell it, feel it. As the “Culinary Capital of Asia”, Hong Kong has brought together a rich combination of the finest ingredients, superb award-winning restaurants and a dazzling range of international cuisines. There’s no better time to enjoy Hong Kong’s rich gastronomic heritage than now as throughout 2009 there will be a sparkling array of events celebrating Hong Kong Food and Wine Year!

Macau:Only an hour from Hong Kong, Macau is a delightful surprise for visitors, with its fascinating blend of Portuguese and Chinese culture and heritage delivering a unique mix of sights, sounds and tastes. Despite its size at only 29 sq km it packs a lot in and visitors can easily spend a few days enjoying its UNESCO listed ‘Historic Centre’, its tranquil countryside on the islands of Taipa and Coloane, its amazing restaurants and, of course, its fabulous deluxe hotels and resorts, spas and entertainment.

Exclusive Twin Centre Offer:3 nights in Hong Kong, staying at the Harbour Plaza Metropolis Hotel 4V, Room Only3 nights in Macau, staying at the Sofitel Macau at Ponte 16, 4V+, Bed & Breakfast

Daily flights with Virgin Atlantic from London Heathrow to Hong Kong

From just £849* per person including road and ferry transfers between Hong Kong and Macau Plus book by 31 Jul ’09 and receive an exclusive FREE room upgrade at the Sofitel Macau at Ponte 16†

Terms and conditions apply. *Prices are per adult and based on 2 adults travelling between 17 Aug-08 Sep ‘09 and sharing accommodation as stated with return economy flights and include all applicable taxes and fuel surcharges, which are current at the time of print and are subject to change. Prices are ‘from’ prices and prices within each dateband may vary. A £20 per person supplement each way applies for Friday, Saturday and Sunday travel. Peak seasons supplements may apply. †Free room upgrade valid at Sofitel Macau at Ponte 16 only, for bookings made before 31 Jul ‘09 for travel completed before 31 Dec ‘09, room upgrade offered to next available room category and subject to availability. All offers are for new bookings only and subject to availability and Virgin Holidays standard terms and conditions. Information correct at time of print. We reserve the right to withdraw offers at any time.

DOUBLE UP

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CHOOSING WHERE TO go on holiday isn’t always straightforward. As soon as summertime comes around, the same annual questions arise. Back to where we loved last year or on to somewhere new? Head to the beach or make for the mountains? Stick close to home or go far away? Maybe try a cruise ship? A city break? A jungle trek? Th e world might be getting smaller, but its roll call of holiday options seems to lengthen with each passing month. One look at a globe can send us into fi ts of indecision.

All of which makes the idea of a twin- or multi-centre break a fetching one. Combining two or more destinations on a single holiday is a hassle-free way of bringing something extra to the overall experience. A week soaking up the sun in Bali is an attractive proposition in itself, but imagine taking in four nights of urban thrills in Singapore as well — you’ll be landing back in the UK with double the memories. And it doesn’t have to cost much more, either. In other words, not only are you benefi ting from a more diverse experience, you’re also getting far more bang for your buck.

Th e range of possible pairings is huge. south-east Asia is brimming with sense-assaulting city-beach combinations, the Caribbean is ripe for island-hopping and South America off ers a world of diff erent adventures all on one continent. Elsewhere, the US is perfect for fl y-drive getaways, Africa off ers holiday contrasts aplenty and Europe is a veritable treasure-trove of cities, mountain ranges and seaside resorts.

On the following pages, we give you a few of the best ideas for memorable twin- and multi-centre holidays. Th e only downside? You’ll have to write a lot more postcards.

DOUBLE UPWith so much variety on the horizon, don’t limit yourself to just one destination or experience — why not try a combination, says Ben Lerwill

Relaxing on a pristine beach. Above: Singapore’s bustling night market

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Throw yourself into the neon thrum and colonial traditions of Hong Kong before heading to the wilderness of Borneo, where Mother Nature still rules the mountains

SKYSCRAPERS & JUNGLEHong Kong’s cinematic skyline and Borneo’s dense jungle canopy don’t have much in common — and that’s the beauty. Pairing the two destinations, facing each other across the South China Sea, is a way of sampling some of the endlessly eclectic fl avours on off er in this corner of Asia. Th row yourself into the neon thrum and colonial traditions of Hong Kong, taking in high-end restaurants, harbour tours and designer shopping malls, before heading to the wilderness of Borneo, where Mother Nature still rules the mountains. Meet orang-utans, climb shaggy summits and explore national parks before relaxing on the beach or golf course. It’s a combination perfectly suited to outgoing couples of all ages, and both destinations off er fi rst-rate accommodation. To neatly round it off , tag on a couple of nights in cosmopolitan Kuala Lumpur on the way home. For two weeks of full-blown luxury, expect to pay around £2,500 per person (pp).

TWIN TIMETWIN TIME

WEDDINGS & HONEYMOONS Special events call for special backdrops. Seychelles has developed a solid reputation as an idyllic wedding setting over the years, and the islands are certainly well accustomed to laying on VIP treatment for ring-bearing couples, often also welcoming close friends and family for the special day. Described as ‘pearls fl oating on crystal waters’, the islands are among the most picturesque in the world and boast a string of fi ve-star hotel options. And here’s the best part: when the knot’s been tied and the sun sets on the celebrations, the bride and groom can then make the short hop south to Mauritius, also in the Indian Ocean, for an equally intimate honeymoon. Th e much eulogised island is just as romantic and

blessed, with stunning and unspoilt beaches. It’s comfortably warm year-round and its ongoing popularity with a discerning clientele means it off ers superb cuisine and a full range of activities and watersports. A two-week trip can cost around £2,000 pp.

Clockwise from above: The neon lights of Hong Kong; rice fi elds in Vietnam; Kuta beach, Bali; Yosemite National Park

in the USA; beach in Mauritius; luxury resort in Seychelles

where tailormade

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TRADITION & TAN-TIME One of south-east Asia’s up and coming stars, Vietnam is a hauntingly beautiful destination with its sweeping paddy fi elds, rich heritage and swirling street life. Time-honoured traditions are apparent, from its ancient temples to its distinctive food, and bustling stop-off s like Hanoi, Hoi An, Hue and Ho Chi Minh City all off er cultural riches of their own. A trip to Vietnam is a riveting experience, with time in the serene surrounds of Bali the perfect complement. Th e Indonesian island is renowned for its golden coastline and formidable good-time vibe, often drawing a young crowd but also off ering potential for discerning holidaymakers out there. Bali is also home to a proud culture, and after the hubbub and colour of Vietnam it’s somewhere to come and re-energise — even surf — among beautiful scenery. Costs vary greatly, but a 10-night stay in Vietnam and a week in Bali, going four-star, can cost around £2,000 pp.

TWO’S COMPANYTWO’SCOMPANY

OPEN ROADS & CITY LIVINGTh e USA is somewhere that attaches a true romance to the open road, so fl y-drive holidays have become a popular way of getting a taste of a region. It’s a vast country, of course, and there are numerous states well suited to four-wheel exploration — Alaska, New England and Alabama among them — but up there with the very best is California. Start with a few days in San Francisco before venturing out to the wine regions and on into Yosemite National Park, then join the famous Pacifi c Coast Highway to head south through Carmel and Santa Barbara, ending the journey with time in Los Angeles and San Diego. Road trips of this calibre don’t come along too often, and for anyone looking to get under the surface of the States, it makes for an unforgettable experience. Expect to pay around £1,450 pp for a 15-day trip, including fl ights and car hire.

For anyone looking to get under the surface of the States, a fl y-drive holiday makes for an unforgettable experience. It’s a vast country, with numerous states well suited to four-wheel exploration

tailormade where


escape with Advantage: to book

a package or tailormake your

holiday call FREE on 0800 215 5923 or


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SALSA & SUNSHINE Cuba on its own can off er some fantastic twin-centre and touring options — the country is diverse and colourful enough to off er multiple contrasting destinations dotted around its vast expanse. To think of its capital, Havana, is to conjure up images of vintage cars, cigar smoke and salsa clubs — it never fails to seduce visitors and its multi-hued history helps make it one of the most remarkable city break destinations on the planet. Naturally, with Cuba sitting in the Caribbean, it also plays home to holiday spots of the more traditional kind. Th e resort town of Varadero has more than 12 miles of white sand, as well as all the tourist trimmings that go along with sunny stretches of coast. Whether your ideal beach break involves throwing yourself into watersports or sitting back with a chilled Cuba Libre, there’s plenty to keep the holiday spirit fl owing. Prices for a twin-centre holiday start at around £700 pp.

ALL IN ONEALL IN ONE

ITALIAN STYLE & ISLAND LIFEFor something closer to home, Italy has proven potential for multi-centre trips. Th e north of the country off ers the tantalising pairing of Milan and Lake Como, but matching it in the style stakes is the southern combination of Sorrento and the island of Capri. Sitting pretty on the legendary Amalfi Coast, Sorrento is a town of cobbled streets, gourmet restaurants and breathtaking shoreline vistas. After a few days soaking up the laid-back Italian ambience, cross by ferry to Capri — a destination that has attracted the international jet-set for more than half a century — where even over a short time you’ll get the chance to explore this most captivating of islands. Italy is ideal for those who like to keep their fl ight times to a minimum but won’t compromise on comfort. For a week-long taste of la dolce vita, with fl ights and deluxe accommodation throughout, you can expect to pay around £900 pp.

Cuba’s capital Havana never fails to seduce visitors and its multi-hued history helps make it one of the most remarkable city break destinations on the planet

From top: iconic car in Havana; beach near Varadero; Sorrento harbour

where tailormade


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With a whole host of exciting new ships and cruises being launched, Jeannine Williamson takes a look at what’s on offer

DITCH THE IMAGE of the blue rinse brigade and cheesy entertainment — cruising has become cool and aff ordable. A record 1.5 million UK holidaymakers took a cruise in 2008, and the cruise boom is set to continue with 14 ship launches planned this year.

From gigantic city-like ships with shopping centres, surf pools and climbing walls through to ultra-luxury liners with stylish interiors and spas off ering some unabashed indulgence, there’s never been a better time to hop aboard.

And for those not wanting to fl y, there are now 11 UK departure ports, which means, of course, no restriction on the amount of luggage you can take.

Brand new ships include P&O’s massive 3,100-passenger Azura, featuring 900 private balconies

and 11 restaurants! But the biggest waves created this year will be by Royal Caribbean International’s Oasis of the Seas. Launching in November and sailing from Florida to the Caribbean islands, this will be the world’s largest cruise ship — and faced with 16 decks, passengers may need a GPS to fi nd their way around.

Cunard’s eagerly awaited liner Queen Elizabeth, due to launch in 2010, recently sold its inaugural cruise in just 28 minutes. Another top cruise expected to sell like hot cakes is Holland America Line’s Signature Class ship, Nieuw Amsterdam. With the option of luxury spa staterooms this is one for those who really want to be pampered. Tempted? Why not fi nd your sea legs on one of these great taster cruises...

where making waves


europe Cruise: Four-night Charms of the Channel on Holland America Line’s Eurodam. When: 6 July 2009. Why go: Th e high-profi le on-board activity programme includes fi tness guru Diana Moran, aka Th e Green Goddess, former royal correspondent Dickie Arbiter and OXO Tower chef, Jeremy Bloor. The route: Departing from Dover, Eurodam arrives at Zeebrugge early next day, with time to visit Bruges or Brussels. Next up is Cherbourg, gateway to historic Normandy, then a day at St Peter Port, Guernsey. Best for: Culture vultures and fi rst-timers. Price: From £359 pp.

Cruise: Five-night Western Med fl y-cruise on Royal Caribbean International’s Navigator of the Seas. When: 10 October 2009. Why go: Th is is a great choice for those who want to combine plenty of time onboard with some sightseeing. Days at sea can be packed with activities, or you can just spend time relaxing. The route: After the fl ight to Malaga and a day cruising, the ship calls at Ajaccio in Corsica and the chic French port of Toulon. Best for: Sporty and young-at-heart passengers, with rock-climbing, basketball and ice-skating on off er. Price: From £568 pp, including fl ights.

mediterranean

arctic Cruise: Th ree-night Northern Lights: A Taste of the Arctic cruise with Hurtigruten. When: Between October 2009 and March 2010. Why go: Th ere’s no better way to experience nature’s fi nest light show than from a ship set against a dark sky, free from artifi cial light. Norway off ers fantastic opportunities to see wildlife and experience exciting shore activities, including husky dog sledding. The route: Travelling from Tromsø, the capital of Arctic Norway, to the medieval city of Trondheim, Hurtigruten’s smaller ships hug the coast, calling at coastal communities unreachable by larger ships. Best for: Seekers of an authentic Arctic experience. Price: From £495 pp, including fl ights.

Cruise: Four-night Cork Short Break on Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Eclipse. When: 29 April 2010. Why go: Th is mini-cruise off ers plenty of time to explore some of Ireland’s most famous attractions. Shore excursions take in Blarney Castle, the lakes of Killarney and Ireland’s gourmet capital Kinsale. The route: Sailing from Southampton, it off ers an afternoon and day in Cork before cruising home. Best for: Luxury seekers looking to be spoilt rotten. Price: From £626 pp.

uk & ireland

escape with Advantage: for cruise information, call FREE on 0800 215 5923 or visit www.loveyourtravelagent.com

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Clockwise from top left: Brussels; sport aboard RCI; Blarney Castle,

Cork; Tromsø, Norway

making waves where


SWAPPING BAREFOOT LUXURY

in favour of some good, old honest camping was a liberating experience. Yes, it was pitch black and raining, with probably all manner of indigenous creepy crawlies lurking outside, but what better way to spend my fi rst night in Australia than sleeping outdoors under the stars — even if I did get a little wet.

Luckily, this was New South Wales in the Australian summer and although the fi rst night proved to be a wet one, the following morning dawned sunny. With only a piece of canvas between me and the great outdoors, I woke to a dawn chorus of native birds that included the melodic kookaburra and whip-crack call of the eastern whipbird. I trotted down to the beach in time to watch the sun rise over a butter-curl white bay.

Jervis Bay Marine Park was living up to its reputation as one of the most beautiful spots in the world. Th e only diffi culty now

Heading out on the open road and sleeping under the stars, Teresa Machan experiences the great outdoors of Oz — with a little help from the locals

was deciding whether to go whale watching, diving, snorkelling, bush walking or guided sea kayaking...

I usually avoid driving on holiday, but on this trip Down Under I’d decided to ‘do as the locals do’ and travel by campervan. Despite my baptism of water, getting behind the wheel proved a lot of fun and I found the ‘home on wheels’ concept very empowering.

Th e Britz Adventurer 4x4 was kitted out with everything a novice camper could possibly need. Roads were pretty empty and well-maintained, and the well-stocked visitor centres en route provided

happycamper

where notebook: australia


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According to the Guinness Book of Records, the world’s whitest sand is found here at Jervis Bay and, when you’re dazzled by the sand at 7am, it’s not hard to believe

access to more information than I could ever hope to digest.

New South Wales is a remarkable state. Not only does it house some of Australia’s biggest icons, it also boasts rich tablelands, eucalypt-fi lled valleys, mountains clad in sub-tropical rainforest, islands rich in marine life and wilderness areas jumping with wildlife.

SEDUCTIVE SCENESTh e beauty of New South Wales’ southern coast unfolds in a series of bays and coves that truly lends itself to a self-drive. Drive an hour south of Sydney and you come to one of the world’s oldest national parks, the Royal National, one of 39 national parks and reserves this region off ers along with a handful of wine regions and two World Heritage areas — the Greater Blue Mountains and Lord Howe Island.

Jervis Bay and neighbouring Booderee National Park were my fi rst stop but the drive through the Royal National Park and along the sinuously seductive Sea Cliff Bridge was a treat in itself.

Flanked by the Tasman Sea on one side and forested Illawarra escarpment on the other, the route meanders through rainforest, dips into villages and whisks you along a sensational stretch of coast. So sensational, in fact, you might lose track of time in its countless beachside cafes and arrive at your campsite two hours later than you had planned.

Booderee is an Aboriginal word

meaning ‘bay of plenty’. Current statistics indicate more than 206 species of bird, 27 species of land mammals, 15 frog species, 23 reptile species and 650 species of plants inhabit the park — among them blue cockatoos, eastern rosellas, penguins and kangaroos.

Its hinterland off ers waterfalls, creeks, bush walking and 55 miles of beaches. Part of this coastline is made up of the Jervis Bay Marine Park, boasting 216 species of fi sh as well as whales and dolphins. According to the Guinness Book of Records, the world’s whitest sand is also found here and when you’re dazzled by the sand at 7am, it’s not hard to believe.

Sunrise over Lake Pamamaroo. Right: Three Sisters,

Blue Mountains. Main picture: Red kangaroos

notebook: australia where


Win a holiday for

two to Dunk Island and the Lakes Cairns

Resort & Spa in Australia, courtesy of Advantage, Anzac

Biscuits and Gold Medal Travel. Visit www.advantage4travel.

com/sainsburys for more details. Good luck!

WWhho

ttwtwtwwo toanand the

Resort & Sp

Th e evocative sounding Green Patch, where we stayed for two nights, lives up to its reputation as one of Booderee’s most sought-after locations. Book early to secure a spot; more than 450,000 visitors, many regulars, stay here each year and with good reason.

Th e site gives access to the stunning sheltered beach with crystal-clear waters, where you can walk for miles, scrunching the world’s whitest sand between your toes, and gulp bellyfuls of tea-tree and eucalypt-scented air.

BBQ IN THE BUSHOur second (drier) evening was spent chatting with a couple who have been coming to Jervis Bay since the mid-1980s. Hanging out with the locals has its advantages as not only did the pair possess the world’s most powerful gas lamp — useful for fi nding our way at night — but we also got to dine on their freshly caught snapper. “Yep, she’s a beauty,” confi rmed Dale as he fl ipped the fat fi sh on the barbie.

Under brooding skies next morning, I drew comfort in the knowledge that today I was moving on to a campsite with a diff erence. In Paperbark Camp, a 20-minute drive away, I’d found the perfect foil for the capricious weather.

Located in a natural bush setting, Paperbark is Australia’s fi rst luxury tented camp. My safari style ‘tent’, named Gang Gang after the eponymous cockatoo, sat on a timber platform beneath a canopy of gums and paperbark trees.

Th e carbon footprint here is minimal: lights and hot water are solar powered and there are no phones or TVs. Eco-tourism is taken seriously and the owners employ a tree doctor to perform regular ‘medicals’. Th ere are canoes for paddling on the Currambene Creek and bicycles for bush forays.

Locals come for gourmet treetop dining at the Gunyah restaurant, a

stilted eyrie set in the tree canopy. Th e Gunyah doubles up as the camp’s nerve centre, a place to chat by the fi re. Dining on the balcony was like camping ‘a la carte’, with a menu featuring kangaroo kebabs with lemon and myrtle yoghurt, salmon baked in paperbark and kaffi r lime, and ginger sorbet with lychees and Bacardi.

Dinner over, I padded back through the bush, eyes peeled for wombats, kangaroos and possums — the latter having a penchant for sticking their noses through unzipped tents. Fond as I had become of my rooftop tent, I admit I preferred the sound of torrential rain lying in Gang Gang. Roughing it, without roughing it.

travelBUDDY

When to go: Australia’s

seasons are the opposite of

ours. Summer (December to

February) is ideal for outdoor

activities, although Queensland

and the north experience

high humidity. Winter (June

to August) is the best time to

visit the Northern Territory,

northern Queensland and

Australia’s north-west.

Flying time: An average

of 21hrs.

Currency: Australian dollar:

£1 = A$1.93.

Time: GMT +10.

Typical costs: Holiday prices

vary massively, depending on

the type of tour and experience,

but a 14-night self-drive tour

of the East Coast typically

costs from £1,200 per person,

including fl ights and 15 days’

campervan hire.


further details on travelling to

Australia, call FREE on 0800 215 5923 or visit www.loveyourtravelagent.com

WIN A HOLIDAY

TO OZ!

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details. Good luck!

From top: Cape Jervis; rosella bird; New South Wales vineyard; Booderee National Park

where notebook: australia


Prices are per person including all taxes and charges and valid for selected travel dates in 2009. Accommodation based on two people sharing a twin room on a room only basis unless otherwise stated. ** Min 7nt stay applies, valid until 30 Sept 09. Prices correct at time of going to print but subject to change and limited availability. Terms and conditions apply.

Bangkok & Beach

To book call your local Advantage AgentFREE on 0800 215 5915

Great Global Getaways

Includes:

+ Century Park Hotel

11nts from

£669pp*

11nts from

£669pp*

Thailand Beach

Kruger & Mauritius

Includes:

MAURITIUS HONEYMOON SPECIAL OFFER**

11nts from

£1799pp

11nts from

£1799pp

Safari Game Drives, South Africa

Sydney & Cairns

Includes:

9nts from

£1399pp

9nts from

£1399pp

Quicksilver - Great Barrier Reef

Sydney, Australia

Inc: 2 FREE nightsInc: 5 FREE nights

Some of the best sailing on the planet is only a couple of hours’ fl ight away. Th ose with experience can charter their own boat and take to the seas on a self-guided adventure, stopping off at whichever island harbour takes their fancy. Or if your captain’s log is looking a bit thin, why not explore the islands of Greece, the bays of Italy or the ports of Corsica as part of an organised fl otilla? We suggest: Sailing away to the Ionian Islands of Greece

With secluded bays, reliable winds and water so warm you won’t need a wetsuit, the Caribbean has some of the top conditions for watersports in the world. Th e British Virgin Islands is the place to go sailing — with calm seas and islands only a couple of hours apart — while surfers should head to Barbados, where Atlantic swells guarantee good waves. Particularly hot in St Lucia and the Dominican Republic right now is kitesurfi ng, a grin-inducing blend of paragliding, wakeboarding and windsurfi ng. Professional kiters and daredevil windsurfers from around the globe

fl ock to St Lucia’s shores to catch the afternoon breeze, so although beginners are welcome, you’ll need to get in pretty early if you want a gentler ride. We suggest: Reduit Beach in the north of St Lucia is a long stretch of golden sand off ering snorkelling, scuba diving and sailing. Kitesurf Anse de Sable in the south-east or dive the fantastic reefs of the south-west. When to go: St Lucia is a year-round destination but the best weather is November-March. Typical cost: Seven-night packages start from £650 pp.

Matt Carroll takes a look at some of the best places to get wet and wild this summer — don’t forget the swimming gear!

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caribbean

From left: Making a splash in the British Virgin Islands; scuba diving off Ari Atoll in the Maldives; Kassiopi harbour, Corfu

where special interest


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Dip below the surface in this part of the world and you’ll fi nd vibrant coral reefs so stunning, words can’t describe. Whether you’re an experienced diver or are trying on a pair of fl ippers for the fi rst time, the sheer amount of marine life is staggering. Many Maldivian islands have their own ‘house reefs’, where you’ll fi nd submerged wrecks, stingrays and sharks. And if that’s not enough to have you yearning to get wet, you can always try your hand at waterskiing, canoeing and deep-sea fi shing. We suggest: Th e exclusive Anantara Resort in the Maldives, accessible only by speedboat. Its PADI Dive Centre has courses catering for all skill levels. When to go: December to April, when the weather is cooler with temperatures around 28C. Typical cost: Seven-night packages start from £680 pp.

New Zealand: The South Island features some of the world’s most exciting rivers and rapids for kayaking or canoeing, with clusters of wriggling trout for company as you paddle on through the crystal clear Buller Gorge, known in Maori as Kawatiri, meaning ‘deep and swift’. Hawaii: Regarded as the birthplace and mecca of surfi ng, the Hawaiian islands have waves to suit all abilities. But if standing on a moving board is beyond you, you could always try parasailing, jetskiing or sailing instead. Egypt: The Red Sea resort of Sharm El Sheikh is surrounded by vibrant and colourful coral reefs, making it an international hotspot for divers and snorkellers. But those who prefer to get their kicks above the surface can have a go at wakeboarding or waterskiing.

where else?


further details on watersports holidays call FREE on 0800 215 5923 or


in a fl otilla. Th is way you get the privacy of your own boat, a ready-made itinerary and help on demand from the lead crew if you need it. With Lefkas as your base, you can explore the turquoise waters and rocky islands of Kefalonia and Ithaka, stopping to investigate sea caves and deserted beaches along the way. When to go: Early summer for consistent sunshine and calm seas. Typical cost: One week aboard a fl otilla costs from £699 pp.

indian ocean

rraneanr anean

indian oceanindian oceanindian ocean


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safaris

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SOUTH AFRICAbig fi ve time

Need to know: It’s home

to some of the best-known

game reserves on the planet,

including Kruger National

Park and Table Mountain

National Park. Located in the

north-east, Kruger features

147 mammal species, more

than any other African game

reserve, and includes exotic

creatures like the black-backed

jackal. Most visitors come to

see the Big Five (lion, leopard,

rhino, buffalo and elephant) and

if you don’t mind opting for a

back-to-basics camp, you’ve a

good chance of getting up close

and personal with all of them.

Highlight: Luxury seekers

should try the Mala Mala

private reserve in Sabi Sands

for traditional-style cottages

surrounded by lush lawns that

give way to rolling wilderness.

NAMIBIAspace to spy

Need to know: Namibia

offers a refreshing twist on

the classic safari. Forget wide

open savannahs and think

vast swathes of sand and

scrubland, where tribes eke

out a living alongside lions

and leopards. In contrast to the

upmarket cottages of South

Africa and Kenya, expect eco

lodges and low-key camping;

head to Etosha National Park

and you can spy on lions

stalking their prey before

returning to camp to sleep

under a star-fi lled sky.

Highlight: Book a self-drive

safari to explore at your own

pace. Grab a car at Windhoek

and head south to Sossusvlei

to climb the 300 metre high

sand dunes. From here, move

north along the Skeleton Coast

to Etosha, where you’ll mingle

From left: Fish River Canyon, Namibia; lion in Kruger National Park; elephants drinking, Kenya; sunset in Botswana

why spotlight

safari

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BOTSWANAwinging it

Need to know: From dry

land to wetlands, Botswana’s

inland Okavango Delta is the

largest of its kind in the world.

Bird twitchers will be in their

element, with more than 400

species circling the buffalo and

crocodiles lolloping about at

the water’s edge. A must-see

is nearby Chobe National Park,

where you’ll witness entire

herds of elephants taking

their daily dip in the river.

Most fi ve-day packages offer

accommodation in luxury fi ve-

star tents around the Delta and

National Park; from here you

can travel by river to see the

breathtaking Victoria Falls.

Highlights: Creep around the

clear waters of the Okavango

in a traditional dugout canoe,

or mekoro, allowing you to get

close to feathery residents.

KENYAclassic collection

Need to know: Mention

the word ‘safari’ and this is

the country most people think

of fi rst. From the foothills

of Mount Kilimanjaro to the

unending plains of the Masai

Mara, Kenya packs exotic

wildlife, ancient tribes and

beautiful landscapes under one

enormous sky. Mara Buffalo

Camp is great for families,

with the Game Ranger ‘taster’

course giving you the chance

to learn how to track and look

after the animals. Another

must-see is the Rift Valley,

where eight lakes teem with

crocodiles and hippos.

Highlights: Take a trip in a

hot-air balloon over the Masai

Mara or watch elephants,

fl amingoes and pelicans from

the family-friendly Tortlis Camp

and dine under the starlit sky.

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spotlight why


further details on all these great

safaris call FREE on 0800 215 5923 or


TANZANIAmigration magic

Need to know: The numbers

alone say it all about Tanzania.

Every year, between June and

October, more than a million

herding wildebeest, 300,000

zebra and half a million

Thomson’s gazelles head north

across the Serengeti on their

way to Kenya, heralded by the

sound of pounding hooves

echoing across the plains.

Equally vast is the Ngorongoro

Crater, where more than 25,000

animals roam the sunken

ground of this extinct volcano.

Highlights: Relax in the

spacious and airy Sopa Lodges

dotted around the region to take

in the fantastic views and watch

the annual migration of the

wildebeest. You’ll also stand a

good chance of spotting over

400 species of bird, the Big Five,

or herds of gazelle and zebra.

RWANDAto the trees

Need to know: Swap dry,

exposed plains for majestic,

tree-covered mountains.

Rwanda’s lush landscape and

breathtaking animal life are

a far cry from typical safaris;

instead of open-topped Land

Rovers, you’ll head deep into

the Nyungwe Forest to fi nd

13 species of primates hiding

among the bamboo trees

and waterfalls — including

chimpanzees, monkeys and

baboons. Accommodation

is simple, but the scenery

stunning, and with just 32

tourist permits per day, it’ll feel

like you’ve got it all to yourself.

Highlights: Picking up

the trail of the magnifi cent

mountain gorillas, during a trek

along the Volcanoes National

Park. Sigourney Weaver eat

your heart out!

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Gazelles in Tanzania. Above: Rwandan tribes people

why spotlight


TTTAmm

RRRWtoto

£619pp*

Prices fromFor more information andto book call AdvantageFREE on 0800 215 5906

* Price is per person based on two people sharing a category 2C Balcony Stateroom onboard Celebrity Eclipse departing Southampton 03 May 2010on the 4-night Cork Short Break itinerary (cruise only). Price is subject to increase/withdrawal at any time and subject to availability.

** Onboard spend is applicable to new bookings created & confirmed by 30 June 2009 & applicable to bookings for the Celebrity Eclipse 03 May 2010departure, only when booked through Advantage. Terms and conditions apply.

Experiencing thebest cruise line iscloser than you think

$50per

stateroom onboard

spend – exclusive

to Advantage

customers**

With sailings from Southampton in 2010 onboard Celebrity Eclipse

for a Balcony Stateroom

FREE flights on selected 2009 cruises*

Up to $500 per person additional shipboard credit EXCLUSIVE to Advantage customers on the following sailings

9 August 12 nights Athens to Barcelona from £3,98012 August 11 nights Stockholm to Dover from £3,665

All prices include free economy flights


* Free Flights valid on selected sailings.

Prices are per person based on 2 adults sharing an outside stateroom and include return economy

flights from London, transfers, port taxes and basic gratuities. Valid for bookings made by sailing date.

Terms and conditions apply. Subject to availability. ABTA, ATOL Protected 2980.

VOTED WORLD’S BEST LARGE SHIP CRUISE LINETravel + Leisure 13 years • Condé Nast Traveler USA 15 years • Condé Nast Traveller UK 2007

p a r k l iTheme parks can provide the ultimate in holiday thrills, as Sam Lewis discovers

2. usa We suggest: Discovery Cove, Orlando, Florida Why: A tropical paradise where you’ll have the rare opportunity to swim and play with bottlenose dolphins, snorkel around a coral reef with thousands of tropical fi sh, hand-feed exotic birds or sunbathe on a man-made sandy beach. When: Go any time from April to October when you can make the most of Florida’s glorious sunshine. Where else: Nearby, Aquatica is the perfect combination of animal experiences, water rides and slides, with high-speed thrills and relaxing sandy beaches. If you like this, you’ll also love diving into Disney’s water park Typhoon Lagoon, Universal’s Wet ‘n’ Wild and the Congo River Rapids at Busch Gardens. Not forgetting there’s Orlando’s SeaWorld with rides, shows and animals galore.

1. europe We suggest: PortAventura, Costa Dorada, Spain Why: Situated on Spain’s sunny east coast, visitors can enjoy the thrill of the theme park with a classic sun, sea and sand combo. Relax in the private Beach Club or jump on over 30 rides and fi nd out what it’s like to go from 0 to 135 km/h in just three seconds. When: May-September for sun. Where else: Tenerife’s Siam Park features some of the world’s largest man-made waves — up to three metres in height. Nearby, animal magic can be found in Loro Parque, home to some 30,000 animal species including silverback gorillas, panthers and penguins.

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Clockwise from top left: Tutuki Splash, PortAventura; Wild Wadi at sunrise; Tokyo Disneyland; Dolphins


why experience

i f e 3. middle east We suggest: Wild Wadi, Dubai Why: Situated between Burj Al Arab and Jumeirah Beach Hotel in Dubai, this Arabian-themed water park is spread over 12 acres and features 30 rides and attractions. Most are interconnected so you never have to leave the water. Sit in infl atable rings propelled uphill by water jets; relax on the lazy river ride; or make a splash on the tallest free-fall speed slide outside the US. When: October to March for the best temperatures when there’s also guaranteed sunshine. Where else: Dubailand currently has fi ve attractions open including Autodrome, Sports City and an Outlet Mall. When completed, it’ll be twice the size of Florida’s Disney World incorporating parks from Universal Studios, Six Flags, Marvel, Dreamworks and Legoland.

4. asia We suggest: Tokyo Disney Resort, Tokyo, Japan Why: Tokyo Disneyland features attractions and high-speed rides similar to those found in Disney’s US parks except it’s, well, larger and has a somewhat Oriental fl avour. Th e resort now comprises a second park, Tokyo DisneySea, with live entertainment, rides and the chance for kids to meet their favourite Disney characters. When: Th e milder seasons of autumn or spring. Summers can be very hot while winters are freezing. Where else: Singapore’s Wild Wild Wet has Asia’s highest fl ume ride and is the perfect way to escape the heat. Also, next year the city’s resort island of Sentosa will house south-east Asia’s fi rst and only Universal Studios theme park and the world’s largest oceanarium, Marine Life Park.

4

3


further details on theme park

holidays around the world, call FREE on 0800 215 5923

TOP TIPS

Be prepared: kids have to be a certain height for many rides. Beat the crowds by working backwards through a park instead of starting at the front. Booking an ‘on-site hotel’ has its perks. At a Disney-owned resort for example, guests get Extra Magic Hours — access to the park outside regular hours. Multi-park tickets and buying before you go can save you time and money. Some theme parks only have a limited number of daily tickets so be sure to book with Advantage before you go.


experience why

©2009 Busch Entertainment Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

Bringing together so many thrilling elements of wonder and awe from the planet that we all share, our parks offer a variety of experiences not available anywhere else in Orlando, or Florida or even the wider world! Collectively they are now known as Worlds of Discovery. Individually they are SeaWorld®, the world’s most popular marine life park; the tropical oasis Discovery Cove ;

® the African themed adventure park Busch Gardens® and Aquatica™, SeaWorld’s new waterpark.

WHAT WILL YOU DISCOVER?


STRETCHING FROM THE soaring

peaks of the Himalayas in the north

to the lush greenery of Kerala in

the south, India is a vast and varied

country lending itself to exciting

and epic journeys, whether you’re

travelling by rail, river or road.

Board one of the legendary

trains and watch the world unfold

beyond the window as you cross

sprawling hills, follow the coast and

skirt villages en route. Cocooned

in comfort, you’ll cover a lot of

ground and still be immersed in

the country’s bustle, stopping to

explore all the sites along the way.

First developed under the British

more than 150 years ago, India’s rail

network is now the second largest

system in the world, stretching

nearly 40,000 miles with over 13

million train journeys a day.

Life is played out in colourful

chaos on station platforms, where

mini-bazaars are set up and people

sleep, eat, wash and chat. Travel

on the ordinary rail service and

you’ll strike up conversations with

locals and get a glimpse of everyday

the route

Day one: Leave Delhi for

Jaipur, travelling overnight.

Day two: Sightseeing in Jaipur,

including the Amber Fort. After

lunch visit City Palace and Jantar

Mantar Observatory.

Day three: Sightseeing in

Jaisalmer. Visit sand dunes and

take a camel ride with evening

entertainment in Jaisalmer.

Day four: Sightseeing in

Jodhpur, including Mehrangarh

Fort and Jaswant Thada.

Day fi ve: Visit Ranthambore

National Park. Depart for

Chittaurgarh to see the fort.

Day six: Sightseeing in

Udaipur then on to Bharatpur.

Day seven: Arrive in Bharatpur

and visit the Keoladeo Ghana Bird

Sanctuary. Then to the Taj Mahal

and Agra Fort before Delhi.

Cost: An 11-day holiday with

seven nights on the Palace on

Wheels, including fl ights, costs

from £2,745 per person.

In this issue, we hop onboard two epic railway journeys with our intrepid team of travellers

life. But for those who want to

experience rail travel in comfort,

there are plenty of luxury trains too.

Perhaps the most famous historic

train is the Palace on Wheels

— travelling maharaja-style, with

16 period carriages furnished in

classic, opulent Rajput-style. From

Delhi, the seven-night circular trip

winds its way through Rajasthan,

crossing the desert landscapes of

the north west and taking in the key

sights, from the Taj Mahal to Jaipur,

Jaisalmer, Jodhpur and Udaipur.

With all meals included, fi ve-star

accommodation in Delhi before and

after rail travel and compact en-

suite cabins onboard, the Palace on

Wheels is ideal for people wanting

to see a lot in a short space of time

while always travelling in comfort.

You’ll have your own private guide

in Delhi and the services of a tour

manager onboard, with all off-train

excursions guided by expert local

English-speaking guides.

And if you’ve got time to play with,

you can even extend your journey;

why not try the beaches of Goa?

THE PALACE ON WHEELS, INDIABY JANE DUNFORD

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The Taj Mahal


whytravel spy

THE GLACIER EXPRESS, SWITZERLANDBY ANTHONY LAMBERT

escape with Advantage: for details

on great train journeys around

the world call FREE on 0800 215 5923 or visit www.loveyourtravelagent.com

the route

Day one: Arrival. Flight or rail

from the UK to Zurich and rail

transfer to St. Moritz.

Day two: Free day. Go up to the

spectacular Corvatsch glacier or

visit the Swiss National Park.

Day three: Today take the

world famous Glacier Express

for a thrilling ride in the

panorama carriage to Zermatt. A

three-course lunch is included.

Overnight in Zermatt.

Day four: Free day. Explore

one of the world’s most popular

mountain resorts at the foot of

the awe-inspiring Matterhorn.

Day fi ve: Rail transfer to

Zurich and return to the UK.

Cost: A 5-day Glacier Express

holiday costs from £582pp

including fl ights.

THE GLACIER EXPRESS between

St. Moritz and Zermatt in

Switzerland is by far one of the

most scenic railway journeys in

Europe and regularly touted as one

of the things you should do before

you die. Crossing 291 bridges,

passing through 91 tunnels and

mastering the 6,670 ft-high Oberalp

pass, the Glacier Express offers

landscapes on a grand scale — the

kind of views that keep you gazing

out the window for hours.

Even its carriages are special.

Panoramic coaches have clear

glazing from below waist height

right into the roof so you can

appreciate the spectacular views,

while an insightful headphone

commentary, in eight languages,

explains all the sights of interest.

It’s not just the scenery exciting

travellers — you can’t help but

be astonished by the ingenuity of

19th-century builders in forging this

Alpine pass. The colossal scale of

the mountains is rather daunting

as the quaint train climbs through

dense forests masking the winding

series of spirals and curves. The

descent into Val Poschiavo, for

example, is so steep and sinuous,

it’s actually possible to see the front

of the train from the back, but going

in a different direction!

It’s because of this epic

combination of engineering genius

and breathtaking landscapes that

the railway, between Thusis and

Tirano, became a UNESCO World

Heritage Site last summer. It’s

little wonder the whole railway line

carries more than 10 million people

a year with 250,000 alone travelling

on the Glacier Express.

The most romantic way to begin

the journey is to stay overnight at

St. Moritz and pray for a clear night

and sunrise. The following morning,

and with the effi ciency for which the

Swiss are renowned, the Express

doors close dead on time as the

train begins its 7hr 30min journey.

Spend a day taking in the stunning

views, sipping coffee and enjoying

a spot of lunch — it’s amazing how

quickly time passes when there’s so

much going on outside. IMA

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Glacier Express


why travel spy

Terms and Conditions: This advert should be read in conjunction with the P&O Cruises 2009 fourth edition brochure published March 2009. This brochure contains descriptions of the cruises including stateroom accommodation, itinerary details and port descriptions as well as important information on passport, visa and health requirements and booking conditions which you must read before booking. Price shown is per person based on two adults sharing the lowest grade stateroom for the cruise shown. This offer is subject to availability and the fare is subject to change. This special fare cannot be applied to existing bookings is not combinable with any other promotional or discounted offer. Fares for sole occupancy and supplementary beds are available on request. *Price is inclusive of applicable savings and correct at the time of going to print. On board spending money can be spent in the on board shops, bars, spa and on shore excursions. On board spending money only applies to the first two occupants in a stateroom and cannot be redeemed for cash or applied to existing bookings. Terms and conditions apply.

The superliner designed for you Innovative and contemporary, Ventura is designed around

the tastes and lifestyles of British passengers. You can enjoy

everything from an endless pool to a high-tech gym, an

indulgent spa and art gallery. Plus there’s fantastic choice

when it comes to bars, restaurants and entertainment.

Authentic tapas, cool jazz, fine dining, comedy, cocktails

and live bands – whatever mood you are in you can find

something to match it.

Experience Ventura from just £1,529ppEnjoy £150 per stateroom on board spending money exclusive

to Advantage customers plus £100 per person discount*

Ventura

15 nights

From £1,529 per person


Combine this offer with the all-inclusive

nature of a P&O Cruises holiday and you

could enjoy a great value holiday in 2010.

What’s included? On board:

food courts and daytime grills

court, the whirlpool spas, pools, fully equipped gym and sauna

theatre, nightclubs and cinema

For the family:

specific age groups

programmes, offering tailored activities throughout the day and evening

reductions on children’s fares, or in some cases children’s places are free

In the staterooms:

tea and coffee making facilities, refrigerator, TV, radio, hair dryer, safe and luxurious pamper packs

Escape to the sunshine for less with Britain’s favourite cruise line and Advantage

S1492 Advantage ad indd 1 15/5/09 12:44:26

travelclinicThe Advantage team is always on hand to sort out your travel queries. Whatever the issue, be it where to go or how to get there, we’re here to help

ANY QUESTIONS?

If you’ve got any burning travel questions, email the Advantage team at [email protected] Unless stated otherwise, we’ll assume you’re happy for your question to be printed in the magazine.

I’m travelling to Australia to visit my daughter in November but I’m not sure how to go about getting my visa. Can you help? Nicola, London

Unless you’re an

Australian or New

Zealand citizen, you’ll

need a visa to enter

the country. A whole

range of visas are in

place, including tourist

and working holiday

visas, and they’re fairly

straightforward to sort

out. If you’re planning on

staying in Australia for

up to three months, to

holiday, travel around the

country or visit friends

and family, then you’ll

need a tourist visa — or

eVisitor. You won’t need a

stamp or visa label as the

eVisitor is automatically

linked to your passport

number and it’s

completely free. Just ask

your Advantage agent for

more information on how

to apply for visas at the

time of booking your trip

to Australia.

My wife and I have booked a long weekend in Paris and we’d like to be able to see as much of the city as we can. What’s the best way for us to do this? Alex, Birmingham

Why not book a two

or four-day Paris city

pass through your local

Advantage travel agent.

The pass gives you free

entry to museums,

historical buildings and

cruises, and enables

you to skip the queues

and save plenty of time.

The pass includes free

admission to over 60

top Paris sights and

attractions including

The Louvre Museum,

Picasso Museum, Arc de

Triomphe, Chateau de

Versailles, Cathedrale

Notre-Dame, River Cruise

and Open Top Bus Tour,

plus free public transport

and a map of Paris to fi nd

your way around. It also

enables you to budget for

your holiday more easily

as all sightseeing will be

paid for before departure.

I’m confused about what I can take as hand luggage on planes, particularly liquids. What are the rules?Emily, Manchester

The amount of hand

luggage you can take

varies with each airline

so it’s best to check sizes

before travel. But when

it comes to what you can

actually take as hand

luggage, there are some

clear-cut rules:

All liquid items,

including drinks, creams,

sprays, pastes and gels,

must be contained in a

single transparent, re-

sealable plastic bag, like

a small freezer bag.

Each liquid item should

be in a separate container

with a capacity no greater

than 100ml each.

Baby food, essential

medicines and dietary

foodstuffs can be taken

through but might be

subject to prior authority

from the airline. If in doubt,

check with the airline

fi rst or talk it over with an

Advantage agent.

IMA

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TO

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O

escape with

Advantage: for further

details on all the issues

discussed in this feature,

from arranging holiday visas to hand luggage queries, call FREE on

0800 215 5923


whytravel clinic

This is your chance to win a seven night holiday for two adults in Malaysia, staying at the Tanjong Jara Resort. The Tanjong Jara offers unique and traditional Malay style in a striking location on Malaysia’s unspoilt east coast. With superb service and the award-winning Spa Village offering programmes

for relaxation and stress relief, you are guaranteed an escape from reality to luxury. Take part in a variety of eco-activities, learn the true art of Malay cookery or take advantage of some of the finest diving and snorkelling in the world.For more information on luxury holidays around the globe, call Advantage on 0800 215 5921.

Terms and conditions:All correct answers received by 5 July 2009 will be entered into the draw. The judge’s decision is final. All entrants must be aged 18 years or over, proof of age may be required. There will be no cash alternative, the prize will not be transferable and only one prize will be awarded. The competition is open to all UK residents except employees (and their families) of Absolute Publishing, Kuoni, Advantage and Advantage’s travel agents. Entries must be sent on this original escape magazine entry coupon or visit www.loveyourtravelagent.com to enter online. Prize valid for travel 5 Jul 09 - 31 May 10 staying in a Bungbung room on a room & breakfast basis, subject to availability. Travel dates exclude 1-31 Aug 09, 20 Dec 09 - 10 Jan 10 and 11-17 Feb 10.

Answer:

Name:

Age:

Contact number:

Email:

Address:

Postcode:

What is the name of the award-winning spa at Tanjong Jara Resort?

A) Spa Village B) Tanjong Spa C) Signature Spa

Post to: Escape2 Competition (AS), Advantage, 21 Provost Street, London, N1 7NH

Please tick this box if you are happy to receive occasional information from Advantage

For your chance to win this incredible prize, simply answer the following question and send this form back to the address below, or go to www.loveyourtravelagent.com and enter online:

est.

Win a luxu holiday for two in Malaysia!


Pre-book &SAVE up to 60%Airport parking from £2.87 per day

Airport hotels from £17.50 per person

Airport lounges from £15.95 per person

Terms and conditions apply: Prices stated are from prices and are subject to change and availability. Prices correct as of April 2009. Full terms and conditions will be supplied at time of booking.

a taste for

Cruising…5 Star Premium

2 night cruise from Doverto Copenhagen from only£127

Luxury Liner

2 night A Taste of Francecruise from only£299

4 Star Premium

2 nightWeekendBreak cruise from only£319

4 Star

Short Break4 night cruise from only£499

Fancy a longer cruise, we’llhelp you find the onethat’s right for you…

Fancy aShort Break?Overseas City Hotels

from only£9.50

4 Star Cannes, France

3 nights for the price of two fromonly£149

Lille, France by Eurostar

3 nights for the price of two from only£189

London Theatre Packages

from only£59UKHotel Breaks

from only£15.75

3 nights/4 days from only£550

DisneylandResort Paris

for a family of fourincluding return ferry crossing,accommodation and 4 daysunlimited park entry

Terms and conditions - Agents for ATOL protected tour operators. Prices are per person for the holiday duration specified

(short breaks are per person per night unless specified otherwise) based on two adults sharing a standard room on selected

dates. *Based on 2 nights for the price of 1. **Per person based on 4 people sharing a studio apartment at the MMV Resort

Cannes-Mandelieu departing on 20 June 2009 including flights. ***Based on 2 adults and 2 children (both under 7) sharing a

Crew4 room at the Explorers Hotel on a B&B basis and includes ferry crossing for one car and 4 days unlimited park entry,

Kids under 7 Stay and Play Free offer and 1 free night. Terms and conditions apply. Subject to availability.

MUSTHAVE

OFFERS

“

”

You can still catchsome summer sun…Call today for the bestlate-deal summer pricesaround.

Hurry, there is stillavailability on a widerange of fantasticdestinations…

For more offersand further details call

0800 215 5924

Summer…

or visit www.loveyourtravelagent.com

*

©Disney

***

**Late

Deal!

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