Jetsettersblog

Monarch Classic Cruises 2008 Adventures

New 7-Day Cruise Itinerary, calling 3 Continents (Europe, Africa, Asia) and 5 countries (Greece, Egypt, Cyprus, Israel and Turkey), a fact which makes this cruise unique in the Eastern Mediterranean.

This itinerary will be offered throughout the 2008 season every second week together with our Classic “Golden Fleece” 7 - day cruise program.

The Golden Fleece Cruise has been planned to avoid present congestion in Heraklion and Santorini, to call in Istanbul on days the Grand Bazaar is open, while the rotation of the cruise has favorable winds and follows correctly the historical sequence of the destinations from the Minoan to Classical, Hellenistic and Byzantine/Ottoman civilizations.

These advantages will surely benefit your customers.

Following information is important for your 2008 planning:

March 21, 2008: first sailing of the “3 Continents-5 Countries” program (calling on the occasion of Catholic Easter on Easter Sunday Ashdod/Jerusalem)

March 28, 2008: Egypt

April 4, 2008: Turkey

April 11, 2008: Egypt

April 18, 2008: Turkey

April 25, 2008: Egypt (calling on the occasion of Greek Orthodox Easter on Easter Sunday Ashdod/Jesusalem)

As of May 2, 2008 the “3 Continents-5 Countries” and “Golden Fleece” 7-day cruise programs alternate every other week.

* Last 7-day departure for Turkey: October 31, 2008

* November 7 and November 14, 2008: last two sailings to Egypt /end of the 2008 season

MONARCH CLASSIC CRUISES

87, Akti Miaouli * 185 38 Piraeus * Greece

Tel.: +30 211 100 2020 * Fax: +30 211 100 2029

Mail: info@mccruises.gr  or  web: www.mccruises.gr

Notable Worldwide Anniversaries In 2007

2007 signifies a year for notable anniversaries around the world and the ideal opportunity to enjoy a memorable travel experience with a difference. Travelsphere (0800 19 14 18, www.travelpshere.co.uk), the UK’s leading operator of escorted tours worldwide, features tours to many of the world’s more prominent anniversary celebrations throughout 2007.

60th Anniversary of Independence from British rule in India - 15th August

Treasures of India –Seven days from £799

Celebrate the 60th Anniversary of Independence in India on the Travelsphere 7-day ‘Treasures of India’ tour, which offers a convenient departure from Heathrow on the 13th August. The tour embraces the history and culture of India and includes excursions to New and Old Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. Highlights include a visit by jeep to the spectacular Amber Fort, the magnificent Taj Mahal and Raj Ghat – the cremation grounds of Mahatma Gandhi. Flights depart Heathrow throughout the year.

30th Anniversary of the death of Elvis – 16th August

The Deep South -15 days from £899

This year commemorates the 30th anniversary of the death of Elvis Presley. Travelsphere offer an ‘Elvis Extravaganza’ break on October 4 and November 1 from £899pp which includes flights from Gatwick, B&B accommodation - three nights’ in Nashville and three in Memphis right across the road from Graceland at the Heartbreak hotel, city tours, entrance to Graceland, plus visits to Sun Studios, the Country Music Hall of Fame, Studio B - “home of a thousand hits,” the legendary Grand Ole Opry and Elvis’ birthplace at Tupelo. Dinner on the final evening is at Elvis’ Memphis restaurant.

50th Anniversary of Independence in Malaysia – 31st August

Malaysia – 12 day tour from £1299

Malaysia offers a truly unique travel experience and there is no better time to visit this culturally diverse country as it celebrates the 50th anniversary of Independence. The 12-day tour visits the capital, Kuala Lumpur before heading to the east coast to explore the stunning landscape and palm-fringed beaches of Cherating, Kuala Terengganu and Kota Bahara. The final leg of the tour heads westwards through the breathtaking scenery of the Cameron Highlands, with a final stay on the stunning island of Penang. Departs from Heathrow in August, September, October and November.

80th Anniversary of the construction of Mann’s Chinese Theatre, Hollywood

America’s Golden West – 12 day tour from £799

Celebrate the 80th anniversary of one of Hollywood’s most famous landmarks on a classic tour of America’s West Coast which will take you to Hollywood to view the hands and footprints of legendary movie stars. The action-packed 12-day adventure takes in all the sites and attractions of some of America’s most famous destinations, such as Las Vagas, Palm Springs, Los Angeles, Hollywood, the Pacific Coast and San Francisco. Highlights include the Grand Canyon, Disneyland, Sunset Strip, the magnificent high cliffs of the Big Sur, the Golden Gate Bridge and infamous Alcatraz Island. Flights depart from Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol and Glasgow throughout the year.

Smoke-Free Haven For Families

Holidaymakers at Haven and British Holidays 35 family holiday parks around the UK are now lighting up in the outside smoking zones that have been developed at all their parks.

Britain’s leading domestic holiday operator has spent more than a £1million installing the covered zones at all their parks. Well lit and with heating to combat the British weather the zones are designed to be attractive and convenient for anyone needing to pop outside for a nicotine fix.

At Devon Cliffs, Haven’s flagship park overlooking the Jurassic Coast near Exmouth in Devon holidaymakers can enjoy a cigarette on the terrace with views of the sea. General Manager Terry Collins said ‘Everyone has been well-prepared for this and there have been no problems implementing the ban. We actively encourage families to enjoy a night out together, with kids welcome to join in with the fun. Several of our venues have been non-smoking for a while and feedback from our guests has been very positive about bringing their children into a smoke-free environment.’

  At Craig Tara in Scotland where the smoking ban is well-established the Venue Manager said, ‘Since the smoking ban has been in place we’ve seen even more families enjoying the entertainment and bringing their children into the venues.’ Shows on offer this summer include stage-shows with music from the last five decades, summer-time pantos, circus stars from Moscow and Spiderman returns….and now all of them can be enjoyed smoke-free.

Book a Haven Holiday by calling 0870 242 2222 or visit http://www.havenholidays.co.uk/ Prices from around £399 for a week from August 18th at Craig Tara or £599 for a week in Devon Cliffs from 21st July – both in standard accommodation for a family of up to six people

Discover Australia Tours and Adventures 2007

Discover Bondi Tours, New South Wales Lets Go Surfing has launched three new Bondi sightseeing tours. ‘Discover Bondi’ allows visitors to spend time with a Bondi lifesaver and learn about the colourful history of Bondi, how surf-lifesaving began. Enjoy the ‘Bondi Day’ tour at world famous Bondi Beach with a friendly local guide; the day includes a tour of the surf-lifesaving club, a typically Aussie seafood BBQ and a surfing lesson to get even first-timers riding those famous waves! See the ‘Best of Bondi’ with any combination of activities, including a scenic coastal cliff top walk, surf-lifesaving club tour, surfing lesson, shopping tour, yoga or spa session, topped off with a seafood BBQ lunch or dinner on the beach. http://www.discoverbondi.com/

Sansara Resort & Spa, Queensland

A $300 million (approx £130 million) luxury development is currently being constructed on the pristine shores of Agnes Water Beach in central Queensland. Sansara Resort and Spa will feature 89 opulent resort style apartments. The resort is expected to be completed by late 2007/early 2008 and will be set on the edge of Queensland’s northernmost surf beach amongst palm trees, casuarinas and pandanus trees. The crystal clear waters boast a reef abundant with marine life and a variety of unspoilt beaches are set amidst coastal national parks. http://www.sansara.com.au/

New eco-friendly resort for Phillip Island, Victoria

Phillip Island, Victoria’s home of the legendary Little Penguins, will welcome a new eco-resort this month, providing the perfect base for travellers who want to combine quality and comfort with environmental sensitivity. The environmentally friendly villas are dotted around a 65 acre site, surrounded by bicycle and bush walking tracks. The accommodation has received a five-star eco rating through the use of renewable and recyclable materials and integrated water and energy efficient appliances. The first phase will open this month, with all 211 villas operational by February 2008. http://www.theislandecoresort.com.au/

Blue Mountains Aboriginal Taste of Culture, New South Wales

Australian Luxury Escapes is offering a new eco tour of the Blue Mountains, just over one hour from the heart of Sydney. First stop is Muru Mittigar for a Yarra Walk with an Aboriginal guide who explains the bushland, cultural beliefs and the native heritage of the area. This is followed by a bush tucker morning tea of kangaroo, emu and damper. Next, explore a hidden valley off the beaten track and seek out kangaroos in their natural environment before returning to Katoomba’s Mash Café for lunch. http://www.australianluxuryescapes.com/ Outback Jackaroo/Jillaroo Experience, Northern Territory

Ever fancied yourself as a real life Jackaroo or Jillaroo? The Outback Jackaroo/Jillaroo Experience is a five day package of Outback life and adventure, allowing you to experience the training given to Australian jackaroos and jillaroos on Australian cattle stations. Based near the rural township of Katherine, 300km south of Darwin, visitors will learn a mix of theory and practice, gaining hands-on experience in a range of skills, from quad and horse riding to mustering. http://www.outbackjj.com.au/ Oysterfest – September 24-27, South Australia

Ceduna shows off its country hospitality during this fabulous festival. If you go for the fine fresh seafood, you’ll want to stay for the music, dance and parties. Kicking off with a colourful opening celebration on the first morning, the Oysterfest celebrations don’t let up until the final evening of festivities. Adults will love the array of concerts and gourmet treats, while kids are well catered for with story telling, hands-on workshops and competitions. http://www.ceduna.net/

The Chocolate Bar at Aria Lounge, Victoria

A dark and decadent chocolate afternoon tea experience is now available every Saturday and Sunday afternoon from 1pm - 4pm at The Langham Hotel’s refurbished Aria Lounge. The luxurious bar offers delicious gourmet sandwiches, a selection of coffees and leaf teas and a scrumptious chocolate dessert bar to die for – the ultimate chocolate experience! The afternoon tea is priced at $45 (approx £20) per person. Check this link.

Spa Karma, Tasmania

Spa Karma is a luxury private spa retreat in the enchanting Huon Valley of Southern Tasmania. The magnificent 1920’s Federation-Californian bungalow is set amongst tranquil gardens and offers luxurious and elegant accommodation of two bedrooms and two bathrooms with the ultimate spa experience, home cinema, library, gallery, and gourmet delights. Pamper yourself with the in-house spa facilities and take an invigorating sauna; enjoy a gentle steam bath; luxuriate in the deep soak tub and totally relax in the hydromassage hot tub on the balcony deck. A few days at Spa Karma offers the perfect opportunity for total relaxation and rejuvenation. http://www.spakarma.com.au/

Swim with Tuna! South Australia

Calypso Star Charter offers a tuna swim at their sea farm in stunning Port Lincoln Bay. From within the confines of a pen, swimmers can have a thrilling experience as the fast, energetic tuna swim excitedly close. The two-hour tuna swim costs from AU$30 (approx £12) per adult and AU$15 (approx £6) per child. www.calypsostarcharter.com.au/

Mowanjum Art and Culture Centre, Western Australia

The first stage of the new Mowanjum Art and Culture Centre in Derby, WA, is now open. This stunning new gallery has been built to give visitors access to the work of an increasing number of artists in the region. Aboriginal Art is becoming more and more popular and the Wandjina Art from Mowanjum was one of the first art forms established in the Kimberley.

http://www.mowanjumarts.com/

http://www.australia.com/

white water Croatia!

Hidden Croatia, the leading specialist tour operator, presents “The Land of Waterfalls”, an exhilarating and refreshing trip that takes you into the hidden depths of Croatia for an experience you will never forget. Based in the Plitvice Lakes National Park you will witness the seemingly endless forests and breathtaking views of natural waterfalls. Hidden Croatia is devoted to giving you a true insight in the genuine beauty of Croatia guiding you away from civilisation and towards it natural assets.

Pack your bag for adventure and revitalise in moments of relaxation. On the first day you will arrive at Korana Village in Plitvice National Park, where accommodation is based, enjoy a barbeque by the river and prepare for the week ahead. The trip includes a bike ride to Proscansko Lake, the highest and largest of the 16 in the area, and canoeing down the magnificent wild-west-like canyons of the Zrmanja and Krupa rivers.

There is plenty of time to explore by yourself or visit local villages such as Bihac, the nearby Bosnian town, for a Bosnian lunch and a Turkish coffee.

Accommodation is provided by local families in the romantic village, Korana. To add to the feel good factor of an exhilarating holiday, Hidden Croatia is committed to responsible travel ensuring that the local community benefits from the tourism it provides.

The ‘Sea Kayaking’ itinerary is one of four provided by Hidden Croatia and is available to anyone aged eight or over. All holidaymakers enjoy biking, hiking and white water rafting, as well as sea kayak instruction. Prices start from £355 per person, excluding flights; included is local accommodation on a half board basis, transfers from Dubrovnik airport, appropriate equipment hire for the arranged activities. For more information or to book, telephone Hidden Croatia on 0800 021 7771 or visit www.hiddencroatia.com

Croatia and Slovenia Travel Map Excellent for route-planning and reference. This map of Croatia and Slovenia includes up-to-date information and features: • Motorways, principal highways, secondary roads (with road numbering where available) • Street maps of major cities • Distances between selected points • Points of Interest clearly marked • Tourist information and Attractions • Public Transport information • Index in Eight Languages: German, English, French, Dutch, Italian, Spanish, Danish, Swedish

From The UK To Iceland From £70 PP

Icelandair introduces one-way fares from the UK to Iceland from £70 including taxes.

To mark its seventieth anniversary, Icelandair (http://www.icelandair.co.uk) has introduced one-way fares to Iceland from its three UK gateways. The airline offers up to 21 departures each week to Iceland from London Heathrow, Glasgow and Manchester, with one-way fares on sale now from £70* including taxes. Helgi Mar Bjorgvinsson, Icelandair General Manager UK & Ireland, said:

“By introducing value for money one-way fares Icelandair offers UK travellers greater flexibility. This is part of a service improvement programme which includes a cabin refit, an improved in-flight entertainment system, new destinations and online developments to make booking and travel easier. A simplified global fare structure provides our wide customer base, including both leisure and business travellers, with greater flexibility and easier access to good value fares.”

Passengers may now benefit from a more flexible fare structure that, in addition to one-way fares, allows travel in different classes: for example, outbound in Economy Class and return in Saga Class, the airline’s business class service. v Icelandair is investing £13.2 million in upgrading the cabins of its Boeing 757 aircraft by spring 2008. New seats, with an enhanced in-flight entertainment system, will be fitted to all aircraft operating scheduled flights. A seasonal service to Halifax, Nova Scotia, was introduced in May 2007 and the airline plans to introduce a range of services including online check-in to coincide with the cabin refurbishments.

Holiday Inn London Chessington Packages 2007

IHG’s first themed hotel opens at Chessington World of Adventures

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) and Merlin Entertainment are pleased to announce the opening of a new Holiday Inn located adjacent to one of Europe’s best loved theme parks; Chessington World of Adventures. To be managed by the BDL Group, this is the first time that these two key leisure industry names have joined forces on such a project, offering outstanding accommodation and facilities to both business and leisure guests alike.

Opened 4 July, the contemporary design-led hotel Holiday Inn London-Chessington offers 150 contemporary bedrooms with ’safari’ touches to complement the hotel’s unique location alongside Chessington’s zoo area and landscaped gardens. These include 56 specially designed family rooms, planned to give parents and their children their own personal space, with a private children’s sleeping area with flat screen TVs and games consoles.

In addition, 30 executive rooms offer luxurious bathrooms and king-size beds while seven specially equipped rooms ensure the hotel is accessible for all guests. Visitors benefit further with free on-site parking provided for 120 cars.

After enjoying a day at Chessington World of Adventures, guests can relax at the hotel’s state-of-the-art leisure club, incorporating an 18m² indoor heated pool, with zoned-off children’s swimming area and spa bath. The hotel provides two eating options for its guests, Langata Brasserie and Grill plus the Marula Bar and Lounge. Offering scenic views across the landscaped areas at the rear of the hotel and the views beyond, the exclusive Langata restaurant offers contemporary surroundings with a menu served fresh from an open-display grill kitchen. Terraced seating areas over-looking the gardens at the rear of the hotel also provide the perfect location for alfresco dining. The Marula Bar and Lounge, meanwhile, provides a relaxed atmosphere and a range of light snacks and refreshments.

For business guests, the hotel has the benefit of offering an International Meeting Centre with six modern, well-equipped meeting rooms, all offering natural daylight. The rooms offer state-of-the-art equipment such as ISDN lines, working walls, projection screens and mood lighting. High speed broadband access is also available and there are four on-site professionals to ensure the smooth running of any event, while all conference suites benefit from a dedicated meetings network host.

These function rooms ensure the hotel can cater for a wide range of meetings and events, private dinners and weddings. The main room – the Serengeti Suite – can accommodate up to 300 people for a reception or 150 people banquet style.

All rooms benefit from the Meeting Network Lounge, a dedicated bar and reception area suitable for networking or evening events which is available for breakout sessions or individual business meetings and features high-speed internet access. Due to the hotel’s relationship with the park, private events such as ‘animal encounters’ and exclusive access to Chessington’s many rides and attractions can be arranged.

The hotel is located just off the M25 at junction 9 and is only 2 miles from the A3, ensuring close proximity and a half hour drive to both Heathrow and Gatwick airports. Furthermore, the property is 12 miles from central London and just half a mile from Chessington South mainline station, offering direct links to Clapham Junction and London Waterloo.

As an added incentive, Priority Club members staying at the property before 31 August 2007 will have the chance to earn an extra 5,000 bonus points.

Alexi Hakim, IHG’s Chief Operating Officer for UK & Ireland, said: “I am thrilled about the opening of the hotel and the exciting opportunity it represents for both IHG and Merlin Entertainment. The hotel is not only ideally situated for leisure travellers, but our cutting edge business facilities make it the perfect option for business visitors too. This is also the first time we have a ‘themed’ hotel and we anticipate that our guests will greatly enjoy the benefits of being located next to one of Europe’s most popular theme parks.”

The range of packages available to business and leisure guests include:

Conference Packages:

- Day delegate rates start from £55pp including hire of the main meeting room, lunch and free parking.

- Residential delegate rates start from £165pp including accommodation, three course dinner, lunch and breakfast.

Corporate Hospitality Packages:

- Packages can be tailored to your individual needs and include animal interaction experiences such as ‘Train the Sea-lion‘ and ‘Feed the penguins’, along with private ride access to the Vampire and Dragons Fury rides.

Leisure Packages:

- Family rooms will be available from £122 per night including entry to the park, dinner and breakfast.

- There will also be day packages which will include animal experiences, such as being a zookeeper for the day and the chance to train Sea-lions.

Austrian flies To Shanghai, Guangzhou & Wuhan Via Beijing

Once more Austrian will offer daily services to the Chinese ‘boomtown’ Shanghai via Beijing, working in co-operation with future Star partner Air China. Daily code share flights will also begin to the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou, better known by its former English-language name of Canton. Guangzhou is in the rich Pearl River Delta region, the focus of China’s export boom of the past two decades. Wuhan, situated along the middle reaches of the Yangtze River in Central China, is an important industrial and conference centre.

The co-operation will allow Austrian to offer 42 new weekly flights between Austrian and China with excellent connections from London.

Oriental Themed City Cruise Breaks To Amsterdam And Bergen

Experience exotic Middle Eastern culture and a mouth watering taste of the Orient on an oriental themed City Cruise Break to Amsterdam or Bergen, with DFDS Seaways. The relaxing onboard atmosphere and journey will make you feel you have arrived into another world the minute you step onboard.

Start your break with a welcome drink at Navigators Bar before dining in the Explorer’s Restaurant, fully transformed in to a colourful, oriental themed dining experience, truly taking you on a culinary adventure. Enjoy traditional delicacies such as Sake, sushi and scallops, while sipping on Japanese and Chinese beers. Your senses will transport you to the Middle East, while traditionally dressed waiters will be tending to your every need as you just sit back, relax and enjoy the wonderful cuisine.

Take a slice of the Orient home with you and treat your loved ones to a gift from the onboard shop themed especially for the occasion to add to the memories of your break!

Onboard DFDS Seaways cruise ferries, there is so much to keep you busy. Choose from several restaurants, cafes and bars for wining and dining, check out the casino, catch a movie or go for a swim and a sauna (only available on Queen of Scandinavia) to truly relax and unwind!

So choose between a City Cruise Break to Amsterdam or Bergen for a short break with a difference.

Two Night City Cruise Break - Newcastle to Amsterdam

Two Night Oriental City Cruise Break to Amsterdam, Seaways Class – prices from £110 per person, based on two people sharing a four berth inside cabin.

World renowned for its refreshing atmosphere, Amsterdam really is one of Europe’s most relaxed cities. Often referred to as one of the most colourful cities in the world, it caters for every taste. Choose from cultural experiences, shops, and museums. Visit Anne Frank’s home, or simply go for a stroll and check out the beautifully decorated churches, quaint canals and narrow back streets.

Amsterdam is a cultural experience that offers far more than the party atmosphere it has become famous for. With fantastic sightseeing tours, restaurants, cafes, flea markets and miles of canals, it really is a place that can’t be missed!

Three Night City Cruise Break - Newcastle to Bergen

Three Night Oriental Coastal Cruise Break to Bergen, Seaways Class – prices from £105 per person, based on two people sharing a four berth inside cabin. 
Bergen, Norway’s second largest city is often referred to as a city with its feet in the sea, its head in the skies and its heart in the right place. Famous for its wooden houses and beautiful historic harbourside, this city is blooming with historical sights for you to indulge in. With streets and streets of art galleries, museums, quaint coffee shops and restaurants - there is plenty to keep you entertained.

Known as the gateway to the Fjords, Bergen has traditional architecture and charming 900 year old harbour create a lasting impression on all who visit.

This wonderful city is delightfully compact meaning you can easily get around and explore by foot. Bergen is a truly charming destination, and with its picturesque waterfront and harbour district, it can’t be missed! Wander around, soak up the atmosphere and enjoy this pretty city.

The Oriental themed Cruise Break is available from 27th July to 9th October. To be part of the Oriental experience book online now at www.dfds.co.uk/orient  or call 0871 882 0887

Free Norway cruises for Kids

Norway Travel Map

This summer take the family on a fantastic cruise break to Norway with DFDS Seaways and the kids go free. This offer is valid for Tuesday sailings throughout the summer. Prices start from £59 per person or from £89 per person including breakfasts both ways and a dinner buffet on the return sailing. Summer is often the best time to get the most from a short cruise break to Norway, as the fine weather seems to bring out the colour of the landscapes.

Sailing from Newcastle on Tuesday evenings and returning on Fridays you have a fun filled time on board, with a whole host of things to do for both the children and the adults. The m.s QUEEN OF SCANDINAVIA has fantastic facilities including cinema, swimming pool, Kids Club, Ball Pool, restaurants, bars, nightclub, casino, and shops.

After a cruise along the Norwegian coast, featuring two brief stops you arrive late on Wednesday, with a brief opportunity to explore Bergen in the morning. The Stunning scenery is the real highlight, and from £59 for a summer mini cruise, these breaks are perfect.

To book a trip go to http://www.dfds.co.uk/