Jetsettersblog

In Iceland the old idiom ‘it’s grim up north’ does not apply and with the launch of new direct flights next summer to Iceland’s second city, Akureyri, UK visitors can now find out why.

Known as the ‘Capital of the North’, the new Akureyri gateway opens up a fascinating alternative holiday destination to Reykjavik and the south.

Just 60km from the Arctic Circle and bathed in 24-hour daylight from May to August, Akureyri is the ideal starting point to discover some of Iceland’s most captivating but lesser known landscapes and natural wonders.

The dramatic and surreal Lake Myvatn area, a volcanic hotbed of boiling mud pools, rock and lava formations, is the north’s most famous attraction – the ‘must see’ after the Blue Lagoon and Golden Circle.

Other attractions close by and not to be missed include Europe’s most powerful waterfall, Dettifoss, the Hljodaklettar or ‘Whispering Cliffs’ rock formations, Asbyrgi (Iceland’s most awe-inspiring canyon), the striking volcanic wonders of the Askja caldera and the explosion crater Víti (‘Hell’) – made famous by NASA’s astronauts as their practice ground before the moon landings. All are now part of the new Vatnajokull National Park.

Wildlife lovers can flock to Husavik, one of Iceland’s best whale watching spots, and the shores of Lake Myvatn, 45 minutes inland, offer a twitcher’s paradise – the only breeding ground in Europe for the Barrow’s Goldeneye.

North-west Iceland has a beautiful coastline, with off shore islands steeped in history, myths and legends.

The countryside is dotted with countless horse farms – the perfect place to head off the beaten track on a study Icelandic horse.

Iceland’s cutting edge restaurant scene does not end with Reykjavik; creative chefs can be found across Akureyri and the north, spearheaded by Friðrik Valur Karlsson, who trained at London’s renowned River Café and now runs acclaimed restaurant Fridrik V.

More traditional foodies can try Hverabrauð, a rich rye bread that is baked in the geothermal earth at the Cow Shed Café, and sample the traditional meat soup Kjötsúp at Gamlibær, an old-fashioned Icelandic tavern by Lake Myvatn.

History buffs can go back in time at the Icelandic Herring Era Museum in Siglufjörður, Iceland’s most northerly town and former herring capital of the North Atlantic.

Finally, no trip to the region would be complete without taking a refreshing dip in the Myvatn Nature Baths, the ‘Blue Lagoon of the North’.

For more information on North Iceland visit www.northiceland.is

Iceland Express’s weekly flights to Akureyri start in June 2010 from London Gatwick www.icelandexpress.com

For more information on Iceland visit www.visiticeland.com

Scandinavia’s dramatic landscapes of mountains, forests, water and ice makes Scandinavia an Eden for a unique mix of creatures.

You can visit polar bears in the north, swim with whales, spot moose & elk by dog sled, taste red king crabs, eye eagles, walk amongst musk oxen, wild boars, deer or even go a on a Gotland pony ride. The list is really endless and will make any ordinary holiday, unforgettable!

To help you get to Scandinavia and explore these safaris on the wild side, Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) is offering a ‘great bargain sale’ for business and economy fares until November 30 for departure until September 30, 2010.

Read on for a sample of wildlife inspired activities in Scandinavia.

DENMARK

Bird watching in Denmark

There are about 100 bird and animal sanctuaries in Denmark, which often attract rare birds because of the tranquil and healthy environments they provide.

Keep an eye out for the white-tailed eagle which has returned to Denmark after a century of absence. Today it is a permanent breeding bird and around 30 visit for the winter. You may also catch a glimpse of golden eagles around the same time. In any case, food is often left out for the birds to increase your chances of seeing them. Don’t forget your binoculars and camera!
For more on bird watching:
www.visitdenmark.com, www.fugleogferie.com

Stroll through Denmark’s Deer Park

For a more leisurely take on the wildlife safari, try Jægersborg Dyrehave, a deer park in Denmark. There are more than 2000 deer roaming the parklands, so you will have no difficulty spotting them. Species include red deer, fallow deer and sika deer.

The grounds used to be the King’s private hunting area but today you can go horse riding, bike riding, enjoy a picnic or buggy ride, or just go for a relaxing stroll.

Approximately 7.5 million people visit the park every year, so why not find out why people keep coming back year after year.

For more on Jægersborg Dyrehave: www.visitdenmark.se/international

NORWAY

See Polar bears in Svalbard, Norway

Encounter polar bears on a five day safari to Svalbard. The trip there will be an adventure in its own right, as you snowmobile through the Norwegian fjords and witness deep canyons encased by imposing mountains and mirrored by crystal blue waters.

On arrival you will be met by another unique landscape of pure white pack ice and glaciers. Here you will get the chance to see polar bears as well as polar foxes, seals, special Svalbard reindeers and grouse.

Packages include all your essentials, like accommodation, guides, snowmobiles, clothing, food and more.
More: www.svalbard.net

Mingling with whales in Nordland, Norway

There are plenty of opportunities to mingle with whales in Nordland, from joining a whale watching safari, to swimming and kayaking amongst them.

Safaris are arranged in known havens when the whales feed, so the chances of seeing them are high. However if you do not get to see the whales on your first trip, most companies offer a sighting guarantee so you get a new trip for free. If you are lucky you may even spot dolphins. Book early to avoid disappointment.

For more on whale related activities go to: www.visitnordland.no
www.visitnorway.com/en/Stories/What-to-do/Activities–Sports/Wildlife-safaris

Catching Red King Crabs in Finnmark

Witness the majesty of the red king crab in the Barrants Sea outside Finnmark. Watch from ashore, from a boat or if you have a divers’ license, from underwater.

Crabs can weigh up to 15 kg and reach two metres from claw to claw. Safaris are available all year round and usually include a meal of the days’ haul afterwards.

One leg should be enough to satisfy a grown man, so come hungry!

For more on King Crab safaris and Finnmark go to:
http://www.visitnorway.com/en/Stories/What-to-do/Activities–Sports/Wildlife-safaris  http://www.finnmark.com

Meet mighty Musk Oxen

There are very few places on earth where you can encounter musk oxen, so to see one is an experience in itself.

The musk oxen look like prehistoric creatures because they survived the last glacier epoch.

They are very shaggy and weigh between 225-400 kilograms, yet they can move up to 60 km/h.

They are generally unaggressive, yet you should still maintain a distance of at least 200 metres.

You can meet these mighty musk creatures on a six hour summer safari between June and September. Some companies virtually guarantee an encounter and there is also a good chance that you will come across other Scandinavian wildlife like reindeer and grouse.

For more on Musk Ox Safaris go to: www.visitnorway.com
www.moskussafari.no

SWEDEN

Moose & Elk spotting by snowmobile, Sweden

Spot wild moose & elk by snowmobile in the Swedish village, Laukkuluspa. Guides take you through the dense forests, majestic mountains and over frozen rivers where the creatures spend their time during winter.

Some companies can promise an almost guaranteed sighting, and if the weather is clear you may even get to see the summit of Kebnekaise, Sweden’s highest mountain.

Along the way you can also try a Lappish meal around an open fire, in a traditional Sami hut called a kåta. Some companies even offer ice fishing as part of the package.

More on what to do and see in Northern Sweden here AT THIS LINK.

Rustle up to reindeer in Swedish Lapland
Reindeer are sub arctic dwelling animals so Scandinavia is the perfect place to meet them.

Try a safari run by dog sled, snowmobile, bus or even reindeer sled. Guides will offer stories and information about the animals and show you how to track them.

Some safaris will also offer you meals and allow you to feed the reindeer too. This is a must for little ones wanting to find out about Santa’s little helpers.
More on reindeer safaris and Swedish Lapland here:
www.swedishlapland.com

Stockholm’s wild side

Take advantage of the nature reserve just 30 minutes south of Stockholm. You’ll get the chance to be amongst some of Sweden’s wildlife including moose, roe deer and wild boars. Along the way the guides will share interesting stories and facts about Swedish nature, and you’ll also get to relax by the lake.

Free transfers to and from the reserve can also be arranged from your hotel.

For more on Stockholm’s wild side go to: http://beta.stockholmtown.com/en/to-do/Activities/sthlm-outback/970, www.sthlmoutback.se

Horse & pony riding through Sweden

Sweden takes great pride in horse management and breeding, in fact it is said that Sweden has the healthiest horses in the world.

So instead of just watching these magnificent animals why not get up close and personal and find out what makes these horses so special.

Sweden even has two indigenous horse breeds: the north Swedish horse and the Gotland pony.

There are countless horse riding opportunities through forests, mountains, beaches and much more.

Riding through nature also means you will get the chance to see other fascinating wildlife along the ride.

Here are some beautiful areas to check out by horse in Sweden:

www.visitsweden.com/sweden/Attractions/Nature-experiences/Sweden-by-horse

http://www.gotland.info

http://www.smaland-oland.com/

www.ridupplevelser.com/eng.htm

http://www.visitsweden.com/sweden/Attractions/Nature-experiences/Sweden-by-horse

LUNEL, France —Starting in Villeneuve-les-Avignon, journey through the culturally rich French countryside of France from Avignon, to the Alpilles, and into the Luberon. This multi-sport trip takes active travelers “off the beaten path” as they cycle through the vineyards and forests of the region, canoe and paddle down the scenic Gardon river, hike through the Provençal Mountains, lavender fields and olive-yards, ride a mountain bike on the trails of Luberon , climb trees and zip like in the adventure park of the Vaucluse, and much more.

Offering a way to experience Provence like no other, this trip, brand new in 2009, was named one of National Geographic Adventure’s “Best New Adventure Trips of 2009”.

Travelers can choose from either a self-guided or a guided option and trips run from 1315 Euros to 1695 Euros based on double-occupancy, also giving travelers a great value for the money.

The trip includes 6 nights’ very charming lodging and some with swimming pool, all breakfasts, 4 dinners, baggage transfers, detailed road book with maps and guide book with tourist information, arrival orientation, all equipment and delivery, and local support available throughout the tour for emergency support.

Discover France also includes free travel planning to add Paris hotels, car rentals, France hotels, trains, airport transfers, and more.

www.discoverfrance.com

CHRISTMAS IN A CASTLE
Ashford Castle, County Mayo

The new Christmas à la Carte program at Ashford Castle in County Mayo, Ireland, transforms a guest room or suite into home sweet home with a Christmas tree, traditional ornaments and even “music to trim by” for €200 (approximately US$287). Guests can choose the tree variety (Brunswick, Noble Fir, Norway Spruce, Richmond Fir) and the colors of the ornaments, there are white lights that are “green” energy-saving LED, and for guests who aren’t the decorating kind, the tree can be delivered all dressed up.

For an additional charge, ornaments can be sourced from around the world and room service can deliver a Seasonal Afternoon Menu including Spiced Mulled Wine, Lady Ardilaun’s Christmas Mince Pies, Plum Pudding and Valrhona Hot Chocolate. Christmas à la Carte is the perfect add-on to Ashford Castle’s three-night Christmas Package, which includes a visit by Santa Claus on Christmas Eve, a festive Christmas dinner, breakfast each morning and much more for €1,850 (approximately $2,749) per person. www.ashford.ie

A ROMAN RETREAT
Hotel Hassler Roma, Rome

This holiday season, Rome’s esteemed Hotel Hassler Roma is offering a special three-night Christmas package, which includes deluxe accommodations with daily buffet breakfast, a Christmas Eve dinner at the panoramic Michelin-starred restaurant Imago and a Christmas surprise.

Based on double occupancy, the package is priced at €1,395 (approximately US$2,095) and is available for arrivals from December 22 to December 24. A three-night New Year’s Eve celebration is also on offer, which includes deluxe accommodations for two with daily buffet breakfast, a special New Year’s Day gift and a New Year’s Eve Gala dinner at Imago. Priced at €3,195 (approximately US$4,794) this special is available for arrivals from December 29 to December 31. www.hotelhasslerroma.com

A FOODIE’S PARISIAN PARADISE
Hotel Fouquet’s Barrière, Paris

Located on the Triangle d’Or at the intersection of the Champs Elysées and Avenue George V, Hotel Fouquet’s Barrière is offering Christmas and New Year’s Eve dinners at both Fouquet’s and Le Diane restaurants. Specially created menus include dishes such as Brittany langoustines with roasted truffles and melted artichokes and turbot infused with Royal Osetra Caviar, with the choice of various beverages including Hotel Fouquet’s Barrière’s signature organic Pommery Pop Earth Champagne. Additionally, a special New Year’s Day brunch will be offered at Le Diane, offering a wide variety of organic and locally sourced French specialties.
www.fouquets-barriere.com

PIROUETTES AND A GRAND PALACE
Beau-Rivage Palace, Lausanne

A special package this holiday season from the Beau-Rivage Palace combines tickets to Lausanne’s world-famous Béjart Ballet, one of the area’s most celebrated attractions, with accommodations at the city’s best hotel – plus, a special Béjart Ballet gift, complimentary access to the Beau-Rivage Palace’s Cinq Mondes Spa and fitness room and a buffet breakfast.

The package is valid from December 19-23, and prices start at CHF 320 (approximately US$318) per person per night. Special rates at the Beau-Rivage Palace are also available from December 12 through January 10, 2010, starting at CHF 415 (approximately US$412) for a double room. An additional discount will be added to children’s rooms, starting at CHF 260 (approximately US$258) per night. www.brp.ch

SWISS BLISS
Baur au Lac, Zurich

Fresh off an approximately $50-million dollar renovation, the Baur au Lac in Zurich has extra reason to celebrate this holiday season. A special package will include an all-out New Year’s Eve Gala dinner at the newly renovated Pavillion restaurant, as well as accommodation in a double room with daily breakfast, fresh fruit on arrival, complimentary WI-FI and minibar access. After the gala dinner – with dishes such as fine cream soup of Breton lobster and fried herbs and sea bass fillet with jus of shallots and tarragon – guests are invited to ring in the New Year at the Baur au Lac’s annual Rive Gauche New Year’s Eve Party. The package, available December 31 through January 3, 2010, is priced at CHF 660 (approximately US$655) per night, and, for the night of December 31, CHF 1,440 (approximately US$1,433). www.bauraulac.ch

The Luxury Train Club is delighted to announce that the Maharajas’ Express in India will begin operating in early 2010.

Train Chartering’s Luxury Train Club arranges the private charter of luxury trains and the hire of private carriages.

The Maharajas’ Express will cross state borders on ground-breaking themed journeys across India. This new train is a 21st-century version of the opulent 19th-century trains so beloved of the maharajahs.

The Maharajas’ Express has 20 Deluxe Cabins, 18 Junior Suites, 4 Suites and the Grand Presidential Suite. The latter occupies a whole carriage, which is about 22 metres long (72’) and will be a favourite with Luxury Train Club clients.

Every cabin has large panoramic windows, temperature controls, environmentally-friendly washrooms, security surveillance and air-cushioned suspension. State-of-the-art facilities include LCD televisions and DVD players.

The standard Deluxe Cabin is the world’s most spacious rail cabin in its category – 2.87m x 2.36m (9’5” x 7’9”) with a bathroom measuring 2.36m x 1.45m (7’9” x 4’9”). Junior Suites are 4.12m x 2.36m (13’6” x 7’9”) whilst Suites are 6.30m x 2.36m (21’8” x 7’9”). There is a choice of twin or double beds for all cabin types.

Travellers socialise in the elegantly-appointed Bar carriage.

The Observation coach is another social venue, with bar, games table and club armchairs. There are two dining cars, able to seat all passengers at a single sitting if required.

The Maharajas’ Express opens up regions in India that are difficult for the traveller to experience in luxury by plane, by car or with current train services. As the first pan-India luxury train, it will cut across state borders, offering diverse and exciting itineraries that take travellers into the heart of another world.

Itineraries

The itineraries are more than just a journey – they encompass beautiful scenery with unique experiences en route.

Examples include dining in the Maharaja of Bikaner’s private hunting lodge, an elephant polo match, a riverboat trip on the holy Ganges for the sunrise in Varanasi. Itineraries are available both ways.

Example – Princely India (Mumbai – Delhi)

On this 8-night journey, the Maharajas’ Express travels through the heart of ‘royal’ India from Mumbai via Vadodara, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Jaipur, Ranthambore National Park, the Taj Mahal in Agra and on to Delhi.

Example – Classical India (Delhi – Kolkata)

The 6-night experience is an odyssey into the heart of regional India, passing through areas that are difficult to get to without flying to and from Delhi.

Starting in Delhi, the Maharajas’ Express travels through Agra, Gwalior, Khajuraho, Bandhavgarh, Varanasi, Gaya and Kolkata.

Prices (USD, per person per day based on two passengers): Deluxe Cabin from $800; Junior Suite from $900; Suite from $1,400; Presidential Suite from $2,500

Prices include accommodation, all meals, soft drinks, house brands of wine, beer and spirits,  all sightseeing, with entrance fees, guides and all entertainment. Also included: off-train excursions and events; visits to the main sites en route and all activities, including elephant polo and champagne breakfasts.

The Luxury Train Club is the concierge service for luxury train travel.

The Club offers comprehensive guest and project management services for all private charter trains and private carriages.

Our project directors are great communicators, both to clients and suppliers.

They liaise with station staff and train crew.

The Luxury Train Club also organises private waiting facilities at or near stations as well as other tailored catering, theming, and entertainment options, according to specific client requirements.

Train Chartering, the Luxury Train Club’s parent, is the pioneer of a coordinated approach to sourcing, theming and crewing special trains and carriages for a variety of corporate and leisure applications; a full-service approach enhanced by comprehensive passenger management, ground handling and transfer services.

South Australia (www.southaustralia.com ) is a gourmand’s dream offering an abundance of first class eateries, food and wine trails, markets bustling with fresh local produce and numerous cooking schools offering the opportunity of being tutored by top Australian chefs, a few of which are highlighted below:

ADELAIDE

- Rosa Matto Cooking School – South Australian chef Rosa Matto has been hosting cooking classes with an Italian twist since 1989, giving lessons from her custom-built open studio kitchen in Goodwood.

Rosa’s classes are very hands-on and range from sauce, bread and pasta making to full dinner party menus. Students use fresh, local produce and get to taste each other’s creations.

Rosa also conducts Central Market tours, the culinary heart of Adelaide where visitors shop for ingredients before heading back to the kitchen to prepare a multicultural feast. www.rosamatto.com

- Outdoors on Parade – This ‘groovy’ homeware and lifestyle shop in Norwood, five minutes east of the city, runs regular scheduled cooking classes with chefs brought in from top restaurants from around South Australia. www.outdoorsonparade.com.au

- Imma & Mario’s Mercato – Talented Adelaide chefs reveal their secrets and tips inspiring guests to cook up a delicious feast of their own.

Meals include a variety of traditional, authentic and modern meals that are easy to prepare. Sampling South Australian wines is also an integral element of each class. www.ilmercato.com.au

- The Bottega Rotolo Cooking School , one of Adelaide’s premier fine food merchants providing premium quality food products from South Australia and around the world, also has a hands-on cooking school.

‘To The Plate’ is a great way to learn new kitchen skills as the classes are based on traditional and authentic European and Asian cuisine featuring Adelaide’s finest chefs. www.bottegarotolo.com.au

- The Hilton Adelaide – ‘The Brasserie’ team offer an entertaining dining experience at a ‘Seriously South Australian’ cooking demonstration.

Guests are wined and dined as the team demonstrates how each course is made, offering insiders’ tips and industry secrets.

Perfect for beginners or more advanced cooks, guests also sample a three-course dinner including paired wines from the region. www.thebrasserie.com.au

- The Grange – Cheong’s Kitchen Table – The father of fusion cuisine, mixing French technique with Asian flair, Cheong Liew has defined his innovative style as ‘East meets West’.

Private experiences in the Grange Kitchen with Cheong include seeing what goes on behind the scenes, being a part of the action and enjoying a menu of Cheong’s creations.

‘The Kitchen Table’ is available Wednesday to Friday and can seat four to eight people. www.thegrangerestaurant.com.au

ADELAIDE HILLS

- Sticky Rice Cooking School offers hands-on cooking classes helping visitors to create restaurant quality meals with tuition provided by Australia’s masters of Asian cuisine. www.stickyricecookingschool.com.au

- The Udder Delights cheese making school and cheese cellar door offers daily cheese tastings and sales. www.udderdelights.com.au

THE BAROSSA

- Verjuice Workshops with Maggie Beer – Maggie Beer is one of Australia’s favourite cooks, cookery writers and a pioneering champion of Barossa regional cuisine. Maggie’s Barossa farm shop offers daily verjuice cooking demonstrations at 2pm.

Visitors to the farm shop will also find Maggie’s gourmet products and award-winning books. Maggie’s cooking, using mainly local produce, has been pivotal in the development of South Australia’s regional cuisine.

Her pheasant pate, verjuice and quince paste are exported around the world. Bookings essential. www.maggiebeer.com.au

- The Barossa Valley Cheese Company also offers cheese-making courses that include lunch with wine. www.barossacheese.com.au

CLARE VALLEY

- Thorn Park by the Vines offers cooking classes for groups of two to four house guests staying for two nights. The hands on classes feature fresh ingredients and quality produce and are conducted over a few days. www.thornpark.com.au

FLEURIEU PENINSULA

- Chapel Hill Winery Gourmet Retreat is an epicurean getaway catering exclusively for residential guests in a rural vineyard environment with views of the sea.

Its facilities include ten luxuriously appointed bedrooms, a state-of-the-art kitchen and magnificent recreation areas featuring a wood oven and barbeque on the terrace.

Chapel Hill also runs hands-on cooking classes in the Gourmet Retreat Kitchen where guests can learn to prepare magnificent dishes using fresh local produce before savouring the flavours and textures of the food, matched with Chapel Hill wines. www.chapelhillwine.com.au

- Blessed Cheese runs fantastic cheese and chocolate making courses from its shop in the McLaren Vale (www.blessedcheese.com.au)

- Alternatively cheese and wine lovers can follow the McLaren Vale Cheese and Wine Trail www.cheeseandwinetrails.com.au

KANGAROO ISLAND

- 2 Birds and a Squid – Strange name, delicious food! 2 Birds and a Squid is the brainchild of renowned chef Sue Pearson who moved from the UK to Kangaroo Island in 2000 and has been cooking up mouth-watering gourmet catering packages and picnics ever since.

She has expanded her business to include Fish a gourmet fish cafe at Penneshaw.

Twice a year Maeve O’Meara and Sue Pearson team up to offer “Gourmet Safaris” (www.gourmetsafaris.com.au ) around Kangaroo Island where guests can meet the producers, taste the produce and get plenty of ‘behind secret doors’ experiences. The next gourmet safari will be held from 16-21 November 09. www.2birds1squid.com

- LifeTime Private Retreats – Packages can include not only cooking lessons but also yoga, meditation, croquet, massages, mud treatments, diving and fishing expeditions. www.life-time.com.au

TOURS

- A Taste of South Australia offers a series of extended cooking school tours for couples and groups are available including day trips to Adelaide, the Adelaide Hills, the Barossa and Mclaren Vale; overnight tours to Adelaide, the Barossa, Clare Valley, Mclaren Vale and Adelaide Hills. www.tastesa.com.au

South Australia’s (www.southaustralia.com)  Kangaroo Island is home to specialist operator Exceptional Kangaroo Island (www.exceptionalkangarooisland.com ) who offers not only an impressively varied selection of guided themed tours, they can also tailor-make special interest experiences – bird watching, mammal spotting, photography, historic sites, nocturnal wildlife watching, wildflower watching and geological expeditions are all options which can be arranged on request.

Renowned as Australia’s Galapagos, Kangaroo Island’s diverse landscape is a year round natural playground brimming with life.

It provides natural habitats for the widest range of free-roaming native animals anywhere in Australia, among them sea lions, fur seals, kangaroos, penguins, wallabies, koalas, echidnas, platypus, goannas, possums, bandicoots and whales, not to mention 255 bird species.

This is the perfect holiday destination for nature lovers and a wonderful environment in which to enjoy a small group or private luxury four-wheel-drive tour with one of Australia’s leading tour operators.

For the 2009/2010 season, Exceptional Kangaroo Island has introduced three new itineraries all of which are available daily on demand on a private charter basis:

- Epicurean Adventure
- Art of Nature
- KI for Kids

- The Epicurean Adventure food safari incorporates a seasonal menu of ‘meet the maker’ experiences. Depending on the time of year, this might include visiting Two Wheeler Creek to learn how Australian freshwater crayfish (marron) are farmed, harvested and graded and, of course, sample them in the restaurant accompanied by wines and sauces featuring native spices grown on the farm.

Tasting honey from Ligurian bees, the only remaining population introduced from Italy in 1886, as well as olive oils, wines, oysters, free-range eggs, artisan cheeses and yoghurts, are all possibilities.

- The Art of Nature tour takes in galleries and studios to meet artists whose work has been inspired by local wildlife and landscapes.

For example, ceramic artist Mark Capon works on elegant vases, sculptural pieces and whimsical designs and creates his own pigments in his airy studio overlooking the Bay of Shoals. Bronzes, drawn glass, acrylic and oil paintings, photography, sculpture, jewellery and turned wood are among the artworks that may be enjoyed on this tour.

- The KI for Kids tour was designed by local children whose top priority with fun. Their selected options include:

• snorkelling in the rock pools at Stokes Bay
• swimming with wild dolphins
• playing with lambs
• watching milking at a sheep farm
• adventure caving
• learning about bee keeping and making honey
• racing down the dunes at Little Sahara
• quad bike touring
• meeting Dr Peggy Rismiller, the world expert on echidnas

Other touring options include Island Life, their signature island tour which features a number of wildlife experiences such as getting up close to Australian sea lions on the beautiful sandy beach at Seal Bay Conservation Park, not to mention an elegant barbecue at a private site in the bush.

Tours also visit Cape du Couedic whose attractions include dramatic sand dunes, a fur seal colony numbering in excess of 50,000, the spectacular coastal grotto known as Admiral’s Arch and the unusual imposing granite Remarkable Rocks.

HONG KONG – When Hyatt Regency Hong Kong closed its doors on New Year’s Day 2006, both international guests and local residents lamented the end of a hospitality era. Hyatt Regency Hong Kong opened on Nathan Road in 1969—the year Neil Armstrong landed on the moon and The Beatles released Abbey Road.

It was the first Hyatt hotel established outside the United States and throughout its 36 years, maintained its position as one of the premier locations to stay, wine and dine in Hong Kong.

Today, Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, Tsim Sha Tsui opened, re-energized in a new location but retaining the spirit and qualities of the much-loved former hotel. By updating nostalgic favorites and veritable Hong Kong institutions like Hugo’s, the Chin Chin Bar and The Chinese Restaurant, the hotel continues the legacy of the former Hyatt Regency Hong Kong.

The opening of Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, Tsim Sha Tsui completes the trio of Hyatt properties in Hong Kong, joining the legendary Grand Hyatt Hong Kong in Wan Chai and the Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, Sha Tin, which opened earlier in 2009.

Prime Location in Heart of Tsim Sha Tsui Atop The Art Mall Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, Tsim Sha Tsui spans floors 3 through 24 of the new K11 multi-use development that runs the length of Hanoi Road in the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui.

The hotel sits atop ‘The Art Mall’: six stories of boutiques and restaurants. The Art Mall is the first project of its kind to integrate art concepts and exhibits to enhance dialogue between local artists and shoppers.

It also features an exclusive retail experience that brings art, people, and nature together. Through The Art Mall, hotel guests enjoy direct access to the Tsim Sha Tsui MTR subway and East Tsim Sha Tsui MTR station, and are within short walking distance of prime tourist attractions.

Distinctive Guestrooms and Suites

Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, Tsim Sha Tsui has been conceived as a contemporary, international hotel with a strong emphasis on home-style comfort.

The hotel’s 381 rooms, including 33 suites, are decorated in rich tones of burgundy and grey, featuring tactile textured wallpaper, leather-effect headboards and plush velour armchairs and ottomans. Commanding views over Victoria Harbor, Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, and walls adorned with contemporary black and white images of Hong Kong, create a vibrant sense of place.

The Regency Club guest rooms, private lounge and meeting rooms are located on Levels 22 through 24 where floor-to-ceiling windows provide panoramic views. Spanning 2,960 square feet (275 square meters), the Regency Club lounge on Level 23 offers complimentary buffet breakfast, all day tea and coffee and evening canapés and cocktails.

Wining and Dining in Memorable Restaurant Venues

Fans of the former Hyatt Regency Hong Kong will be thrilled to discover reincarnations of their beloved wining and dining favorites at Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, Tsim Sha Tsui. On the Lobby Level, Hugo’s offers classic European cuisine under the auspices of its fictional Bavarian host and namesake, Hugo Ludwig Wilhelm von Gluckenstein.

Patrons of the previous location may recognize the heavy pine doors at the entrance reclaimed from the original Hugo’s. In this version, however, the atmosphere feels brighter as the new Hugo’s benefits from floor-to-ceiling windows and a high-beamed ceiling.

Armed with an impressive array of traditional serving ware, including two remodeled walnut wood Christofle hors d’oeuvres trolleys from the 1960s, Hugo’s revives the craft of table-side preparation, for dishes such as Caesar Salad, Lobster Bisque, Steak Tartare, Cherries Jubilee and Café Diablo. Patrons old and new will delight in the return of Hugo’s Chocolate Bonbons—ice cream-filled chocolate spheres, served with a theatrical flourish from a bowl of billowing dry ice.

Also on the Lobby Level, the atmospheric all-day restaurant Café serves international fare. Café features seven show kitchens specializing in sushi and sashimi; teppanyaki; Chinese and dim sum; Indian with Tandoor ovens; Western antipasti and pizza; cold cuts; and dessert. Guests are able to watch their food being prepared and may eat straight out of the pan, off the grill or from the wok. Part of Café is the Library – a comfortable, residential-style space lined with books where guests can take afternoon tea.

On Level 3, Chef Lo—the Chinese chef at the former Hyatt Regency Hong Kong hotel—once again takes the helm at The Chinese Restaurant.

More or less unchanged, the menu focuses on authentic Cantonese cuisine such as dim sum, papaya soup, crispy chicken and barbecued meats.

The décor, however, has been updated and floor-to-ceiling windows allow daylight to flood the contemporary Chinese teahouse interior, decorated in chartreuse and burnt orange.

Guests can opt to dine in one of two private rooms, seating six and eight, respectively, the latter housing a private bar. Alternatively, they can dine in the main restaurant or outside on the terrace, surrounded by the neon lights, old buildings and unique bustling atmosphere of Tsim Sha Tsui.

Next door in the Chin Chin Bar, former patrons may encounter a strong sense of déjà vu.

At the bar, the eye-catching backdrop of stacked Chinese cupboards has been recreated, as has the original counter with its unique curlicue corners, where bartenders will revive classic cocktails. In the cozy lounge replete with round booths a live band will sing in English, Cantonese and Mandarin.

Meetings and Events in Dramatic Yet Intimate Function Space Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, Tsim Sha Tsui features 5,705 square feet (530 square meters) of event space on the Lobby Level, including a 3,606-square-foot (335-square-meter) pillar-less ballroom catering to up to 300 guests for dinner and 400 for cocktails.

Modern interpretations of medieval ring-framed chandeliers grace the 16-foot ceiling, creating a dramatic but intimate function space.

djacent to the ballroom are five meeting rooms of varying sizes, all equipped with the latest audiovisual technology and wireless Internet connectivity.

“We are delighted to herald the return of the legendary Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, Tsim Sha Tsui,” says general manager Xavier Pech. “We’ve taken the most successful elements of the former hotel and repackaged them for our guests, offering an improved and upgraded environment.

“In doing so, we believe the legend of the former hotel will continue. Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, Tsim Sha Tsui looks forward to being of service to the local community and international guests.”

Contact Information
Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, Tsim Sha Tsui
18 Hanoi Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
Kowloon, Hong Kong, People’s Republic of China
Tel: +852 2311 1234
http://hongkong.tsimshatsui.hyatt.com

Journeys Within is a boutique Southeast Asia tour company dedicated to delivering its guests a comfortable, safe and memorable experience, while still showing them the “real” Cambodia, Thailand, Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam.

Based in Siem Reap, Cambodia, and with offices in California, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Myanmar, Journeys Within offers unique and customizable tours to places such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Luang Prabang, Hanoi, Hue, Mandalay, Bagan, Angkor Wat and many areas that aren’t as well known, but allow for truly magical experiences.

All of their tours are private and customizable so travelers can hand-select the destinations and activities that are most important to them.

Journeys Within can create an itinerary specifically based on traveler choices.

Journeys Within hires all local guides and are known for their socially conscious attitude and the importance they put on local communities and traditions.

The team at Journeys Within believes that a tour company not only has a responsibility to guests, but also a responsibility to the countries in which they live and work.

www.journeys-within.com

The city’s newest four star hotel has scooped a coveted award for its 1855 Restaurant, at a glitzy awards ceremony held at Sheffield’s Cutler’s Hall.

The Copthorne Sheffield took home the award for best ‘Modern European Restaurant’ for its AA rosetted restaurant, 1855, at the city’s eatSheffield awards – and was also one of three finalists in the Best Newcomer category.

Orla Watt, general manager of the Copthorne Hotel, Sheffield, commented: “We are thrilled to have received the award for the best Modern European Restaurant. Our vision is to make the restaurant here a leading name in the city for delivering good quality, modern menus at affordable prices.

“The eatSheffield Restaurant Awards recognise, celebrate and reward the very best restaurants in and around Sheffield. It’s great we are a part of that and have been honoured for our excellent quality of food and service so soon after opening our doors earlier this year. “

Celebrating winning the award was the Copthorne’s Michelin starred chef, Daniel James, who is soon to be leaving the hotel to move back to South Wales to be closer to his family.

“We will be appointing Daniel’s replacement shortly and are looking forward to our new Head Chef carrying on the excellent work that Daniel has started,” added Orla.

The annual eatSheffield awards acknowledge the successes of some of the city’s best and favourite establishments. The winners are those who have demonstrated excellence within their category and proved their dedication to raising industry standards.

Professor Christine Booth, Pro Vice-Chancellor of Sheffield Business School, commented: “Well done to Sheffield’s Copthorne Hotel! These awards represent the best in dining out in the city, as voted for by the people of Sheffield. That makes them all the more meaningful and special.
“I’d like to thank everyone who voted in this year’s eatSheffield awards, for giving us an accurate view of dining out in the city.”

To book a table at 1855, telephone 0114 252 5480 www.millenniumhotels.co.uk/copthornesheffield