Jetsettersblog

Titan HiTours (0800 988 5858, www.titanhitours.co.uk  ), the escorted tours specialist, has unveiled its much-anticipated selection of group holidays to North America for 2011.

The programme contains a full range of individually-themed escorted tours to both Canada and the USA, alongside some exciting cruise, rail, two-centre and cross-border options designed to offer customers the very best of this vast and varied continent.

A particular highlight of the brochure are the five brand new itineraries that have been introduced to the programme for the first time.

Two of these are cruise-and-tour itineraries that incorporate an exploration by sea of Alaska’s famous Inside Passage, exemplifying Titan HiTours’ commitment to expanding its offering to this most scenic of US states.

Both are 17-day trips that combine the wonders of a seven-night cruise with the endless diversity of an overland journey through Canada’s scenic interior.

The Rocky Rail Explorer & Alaskan Cruise has a total of ten possible departure dates between May and September, 2011 and costs from £2,695 per person. The adventure begins with an overland odyssey through the Rocky Mountains via scenic Lake Louise and Jasper National Park, before boarding the Rocky Mountaineer train service through the pristine Canadian wilderness to the vibrant and cosmopolitan city of Vancouver. From here, the journey continues aboard the deluxe Sapphire Princess along the Alaskan seaboard, with plenty of opportunities to spot whales, eagles and glaciers along the way during the seven-night voyage.

The Rocky Mountaineer and Deluxe Alaskan Voyage, meanwhile, follows a similar itinerary but with the cruise portion aboard the MS Zuiderdam.

This holiday offers even more options with 14 possible departure dates and costs from £2,845 per person, with both prices including flights, transfers, some meals (full-board on the cruise), sightseeing tours as detailed in the itinerary, port taxes and the VIP Home Departure Service.

The Rocky Mountaineer also features in another new itinerary, the 13-day Rocky Mountaineer Grand Rail Circle. This railway adventure allows customers to gain maximum enjoyment from the Rocky Mountaineer’s impeccable service and exceptional cuisine as the train travels between the region’s various highlights.

Beginning with visits to the mountain resorts of Banff and Jasper, the circular journey by rail continues via Whistler, Vancouver and Kamloops, taking in amazing scenery, gold-rush history and wonderful wildlife along the way. The well-paced itinerary allows two full days to explore Vancouver (often cited as being one of the world’s most liveable cities) as well as time to discover Calgary, the gateway to the Rocky Mountains, that’s both the start and end point of this magnificent journey.

This holiday costs from £3,195 per person, to include flights, transfers, some meals, sightseeing tours as detailed in the itinerary and the VIP Home Departure Service.

Calgary is also the starting point for another new itinerary, the 10-day Calgary Stampede and the Rockies, which takes place in July 2011 (with three possible departure dates) so as to coincide with the famous Calgary Stampede – the world’s best and largest rodeo event that’s reverently known as the ‘greatest outdoor show on Earth’.

Having enjoyed the Stampede and all its attractions to the full (with grandstand seating for the rodeo itself as well as the thrilling chuckwagon races), the journey to the Rocky Mountains commences with visits to Lake Louise and Victoria Glacier, then on to the resort towns of Banff and Jasper before finally ending the odyssey in Edmonton.

A particular highlight along the way will be the chance to walk on the massive Athabasca Glacier – or even drive across it in an Ice Explorer all-terrain vehicle.

Costing from £2,595 per person, the holiday includes flights, transfers, some meals, admission to the Calgary Stampede, sightseeing tours as detailed in the itinerary and the VIP Home Departure Service.

The final new addition to the 2011 North America brochure is the10-day Southern Musical Medley tour, which costs from £1,495 per person.

This inspired itinerary follows in the footsteps of the Deep South’s noted musical greats and includes visits to Elvis Presley’s Graceland mansion; his birthplace in Tupelo; and the spiritual home of Country & Western music, the Grand Ole Opry. The undisputed high point of the itinerary will be the visit to the Alabama Hall of Fame, where each group of guests has the opportunity to record their own ‘hit’ in a working recording studio. The price includes flights, transfers, accommodation, various excursions and the VIP Home Departure Service.

Commenting on the new North America programme Marketing Director, Dan Whitehouse said, “North America’s vastness guarantees an overwhelming array of holiday experiences and our escorted tours will ensure that customers get the most out of their valuable holiday time. As with all Titan HiTours holidays, value for money is always guaranteed – and with our experienced and knowledgeable Tour Managers on hand to facilitate throughout every one of our itineraries, our customers can relax in the knowledge that they’ll have the holiday of a lifetime every time.”

For details or to book call Titan HiTours on 0800 988 5858 or visit the website
www.titanhitours.co.uk

Tailor-made tour operator cazenove+loyd has teamed up with camera and optics specialist Leica to launch a ‘Travel Photographer of the Year’ competition for 2011.

Each month from January to December 2011, budding photographers will be asked to submit up to five photographs taken in one of cazenove+loyd’s three areas of expertise – Africa+Indian Ocean, South+South East Asia and Central+South America.

The 12 winning entries, one from each month, will be shown at an exhibition in Central London in early 2012. The cazenove+loyd Leica Travel Photographer of the Year will be announced at the opening of the exhibition and will win a Leica X1 digital camera and accessories, plus a Leica X1 Akademie Workshop at Leica’s facility in Mayfair.

Christopher Wilmot-Sitwell, director of cazenove+loyd, said: “We are looking for an inspirational photographer, who captures the beauty and essence of a country’s culture, people, land or wildlife.

“Many of our clients are amateur photographers and we are encouraging them and other keen photographers to send in images that reflect individual experiences and a passion for travel.”

The judges are Leica UK managing director, David Bell, photographer Will Cheung and award-winning journalist Jonathan Margolis.

The judges will select a monthly winner who, in addition to winning a Leica prize, will go forward to the final which will be voted online by the public. The competition is open to anyone over 18, including journalists and professional photographers.

Entries for January 2011′s monthly prize can be uploaded now on cazenove+loyd’s re-designed website. http://leica.cazloyd.com

The new cazenove+loyd website is more visual with larger and more colourful imagery. There is also more content including a monthly blog by travel journalist Sophy Roberts.

Holbeck Ghyll Country House Hotel, Restaurant and Spa in the Lake District is offering guests a complimentary one night stay for two people, including full English breakfast, when they buy a bottle of Laurent Perrier Grand Siècle.

On arrival, the Champagne will be waiting in the comfort of the guests’ room, chilled to perfection and ready to enjoy while taking in the breathtaking views over Lake Windermere and the Lakeland fells.

This very special offer is available at the listed price of £199 throughout November, from Sunday to Thursday inclusive.

Holbeck Ghyll Sommelier, Stefan Lydka, is delighted with the offer, saying; “Laurent Perrier Grand Siècle is an extremely seductive Champagne, the ideal drink with which to celebrate any special occasion, a Champagne which perfectly complements all that Holbeck Ghyll has to offer.”

Grand Siècle

A blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, Laurent Perrier Grand Siècle calls on wines from the finest growths and the very best harvests, years declared vintages by Laurent-Perrier.

The grapes come from twelve of the most prestigious villages, all of the classified as Grands Crus, and within these vineyards only the very best plots are selected.

The blended wine is then aged for a minimum of five years.

The result is an intense wine, bright gold in colour, with a deliciously fresh finish and long, lingering flavours.

With subtle hints of honey, hazelnuts and grilled almonds, this wine is the perfect companion for the most refined dishes.

This offer is also available at The Montagu Arms in Hampshire, The Devonshire Arms in North Yorkshire and The Lords of the Manor in the Cotswolds.

Holbeck Ghyll sits in 13 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens between Windermere and Ambleside, overlooking Lake Windermere and the Lakeland Fells.

There are 26 bedrooms in total, the majority of which enjoy Lake views.

The Michelin Star restaurant offers spectacular lake and mountain views, ideal for a truly memorable dining experience.

The Health Spa provides a full range of beauty and massage treatments, as well as a sauna, steamroom, gymnasium and relaxation room.

Gourmet catered chalets available to rent worldwide on HomeAway at the banner at right.

The top reason people love Christmas is for the time spent with their families, according to recent research by Santa’s Lapland. What’s more, nearly 20% of those interviewed said they enjoyed guilt-free food and drink during the festive season*.

So why not indulge in a relaxing family break this year and enjoy Christmas dinner on the ski slopes, all conveniently prepared by someone else?! On HomeAway Holiday-Rentals, the UK’s largest holiday rentals website, there are hundreds of gourmet catered chalets to choose from worldwide.

Meet for cocktails and canapés in front of the roaring log fire after a day on the slopes, exchange gifts, play games, enjoy long, lazy dinners, or simply kick back and unwind.

Chalet rentals are ideal for family gatherings or special occasions; with individual bedrooms, fully equipped kitchens and spacious living and dining areas, they provide all the space and amenities needed for large groups and the perfect set-up for spending some quality time together.

So if you dream of a white Christmas, why not head to some favourite European ski destinations where you will be guaranteed plenty of snow. Choose from one of the catered holiday homes below in France, Switzerland and Bulgaria or browse www.HomeAway.co.uk for more.

Prices quoted are for the Christmas period and all properties had good availability at the time of going to press.

FRANCE

Fully catered chalet in Morzine with private chef
5 Bedrooms, Sleeps 15. £687 per person for a fully catered weekly stay

Chalet Shufu has an ideal location in the massive ‘Portes du Soleil’ ski area, close to Morzine, Avoriaz and Les Gets and an easy walk to the village resort centre of St. Jean d’Aulps.

The family suite has two connecting rooms with both adjoining door and separate entrances. All bedrooms have en-suite facilities and baby cots are available for two rooms.

The property also features a bar and dining area, as well as a roaring open log fire in the living room and comes with a private chef from the Orient.

www.HomeAway.co.uk/p55855

Superb catered chalet in prime position in La Plagne 1800
7 Bedrooms, Sleeps 14. £715 per person per week
This chalet has seven bedrooms all with en-suite/private facilities and can sleep 14 – 15 guests.

It is in a prime position in Plagne 1800 directly next door to the ski hire shops. The chalet is set over thee levels with a large sun terrace on the first floor.

The catered service includes: three course evening meal accompanied by excellent wine together with fresh coffee and chocolates (six days per week).
www.HomeAway.co.uk/p409832

SWITZERLAND

Ultimate ‘Last Christmas’ chalet on the slopes of Klosters/Davos
8 Bedrooms, Sleeps 34. £11,364 per property per week
A catered mountain lodge right on the slopes of the Parsenn skiing area in Klosters/Davos situated at 1695 meters altitude.

The perfect place for a family gathering, the chalet sleeps 34 in five double rooms and three larger rooms.

Enjoy the delicate design, the Alpine decoration combined with cosmopolitan flair, and be surprised by the menu offered by the private cook on request. Prices include breakfast.

www.HomeAway.co.uk/p86315

BULGARIA

Modern chalet in Borovets

5 Bedrooms, Sleeps 14. £350 per person per week

This catered chalet has been converted to its British owners’ specifications to offer high quality, spacious accommodation. The property consists of five en-suite bedrooms and a lounge/dining area downstairs.

The main gondola lift is only a couple of minutes stroll away. The catered service includes breakfast, tea and evening meal, as well as free wine/drinks.

There are guest facilities for tea and coffee in the lounge/dining area, along with a TV, DVD, and a selection of games and magazines.

www.HomeAway.co.uk/p52223

A Helicopter Transfer, Private Ski Instructor And Five-Course Dinner

The five-star Hotel Aurelio in Lech, Austria, begins this winter season with its exclusive offer: “Pure Luxury” – a special three day package offering a helicopter transfer, two nights in an Aurelio Suite, a horse-drawn sleigh tour and Segway rides, from € 8,000 per couple.

Hotel Aurelio’s winter season starts this year on November 26 – and the Pure Luxury offer is perfectly timed to experience this stunning spa chalet found on the ski slopes of Lech.

Guests will be picked up from Zurich or Munich airport by private helicopter, and upon arrival welcomed with a glass of ice-cold champagne before checking into one of the hotel’s huge Aurelio suites. In the evening, a five-course dinner at Aurelio’s, (the hotel restaurant) awaits, designed by Executive Chef, Christian Rescher, (renowned for spoiling guests with his internationally-acclaimed creations).

The next day guests are picked up by their own private ski instructor to explore Lech’s slopes. For those who want pure relaxation, a soothing massage at the award-winning Aurelio spa is just one option to end an unforgettable day of active outdoor pursuits.

The evening then turns romantic: tucked warmly into a horse drawn sleigh, guests can experience a winter wonderland by night – perfect to build an appetite for Aurelio’s special candle light fondue dinner, perhaps.

On their final day guests are invited to try out a new winter sports experience: ride a Segway on snow and ice and explore the awesome winter scenery in a whole new way.

Just a four hour flight away, Seaside Hotels offer the perfect ingredients for a winter getaway. Whether it’s an active break, a couple’s retreat or family fun, guests can expect sun, sea and sand with plenty of relaxation.

For families looking for a sporty getaway in the sun, Seaside Hotel’s four star Los Jameos Playa is ideal.

Located on the Playa de los Picollos, activities available include the best tennis facilities on the island and water sports such as windsurfing, sailing and diving and golf.

Seven nights at Los Jameos Playa costs from £404 per person, based on two adults and two children (aged two – 15 years) sharing a family room on a half-board basis.

The package includes return flights to Gatwick with Monarch Airlines, travelling in December.

For more information or to book please visit www.monarch.co.uk

Perfect for young families, the newly refurbished four star Sandy Beach is situated in the bustling Playa del Ingles.

Guests are only a stones throw from the beach and with a children’s playground and kid’s club facilities, there is plenty to keep the little ones occupied.

Seven nights at Sandy Beach costs from £308 per person, based on two adults and two children (aged two – 15 years) sharing a family room on a half-board basis. The package includes return flights to Gatwick with Monarch Airlines, travelling in December.

For more information or to book please visit www.monarch.co.uk.

Couples looking for a boutique hotel need look no further than Seaside Hotel’s Palm Beach.

The five star hotel is the only design hotel in the Canary Islands and has a high-kitch 70s retro chic style.

Guests can pamper themselves in the spa and wellness centre with the signature Pantai Luar treatment.

Seven nights at The Palm Beach costs from £720 per person, based on two adults sharing a twin room on a half-board basis.

The package includes return flights to Gatwick with Thomson Airways, travelling in December.

For more information or reservations visit www.thomson.co.uk .

For the ultimate, luxury winter getaway, Seaside Hotel’s five star Grand Hotel Residencia is perfection.

One of the leading Small Hotels of the World, this hotel offers style and sophistication in abundance.

With special His and Hers spa treatments available, couples can enjoy the perfect combination of romance and relaxation.

Seven nights at The Grand Hotel Residencia costs from £1679 per person, based on two adults sharing a twin room on a half-board basis.

The package includes return flights to Gatwick with Monarch Airlines, travelling in December. For more information or reservations visit www.prestigeholidays.co.uk.

For further information on Seaside Hotels visit www.seaside-hotels.com

Prepare to chill-out in style this Autumn with a luxurious stay at the Ice House, Ireland’s coolest boutique retreat, located in County Mayo, where you can relax and enjoy a two-night stay in a deluxe room with panoramic riverside views from just £285 per person* including a lazy breakfast in bed each morning, a decadent meal in fashionable restaurant, The Pier, and a day of pampering at the stylish Chill Spa.

Guests can immerse themselves in luxury at this chic hotel where you’ll find an Apple iPod TV in your room, bespoke contemporary furniture and floor-to-ceiling views across the River Moy to the Belleek woods beyond – a stunning autumnal scene which you can also enjoy from one of the outdoor hot tubs.

The Autumn Chillin’ package includes exclusive Yonka spa goodies in your room and a 60 minute pampering spa treatment.

To book call 00 353 96 23 500 or visit www.icehousehotel.ie

Fly direct to nearby Knock airport from nine UK departure airports with flights available from as little as £4.99 with www.aerlingus.com

*One night stay, based on two people sharing. Listed online as the Autumn Midweek package

For more information about Ireland visit http://www.discoverireland.com or for a free vacation planning kit call the NY office at 800/223-6470. Read Ireland feature stories from Jetsetters Magazine.

Lefay Resort & SPA overlooking Lake Garda has launched a new programme aimed at improving posture.

Recognising the pain and discomfort that can be associated with incorrect posture, the luxury wellness retreat has developed a special programme dedicated to correcting posture and restoring balance.

Merging the principles of classic Chinese medicine with modern western techniques, the Postural Programme includes an initial health interview followed by mobilisation sessions, reflexology, Tuina (a form of Chinese manipulative therapy) and a combination of sports and relaxation massages.

The programme also includes use of the hydrotherapy pool and flotation in the saltwater lake, group lessons of Qi Gong and a phytotherapy prescription recommending herbal remedies and aromatherapy.

Each guest will have a final check-up interview and receive personalised advice at the end of their stay.

The Postural Programme runs for either four or seven nights and includes overnight accommodation in the Prestige Junior Suite with views of Lake Garda and full board at the resort’s La Grande Limonaia restaurant.

Lefay Resort & SPA Lago di Garda is situated just above the village of Gargnano in the Alto Garda Natural Park with spectacular views of the lake.

There are indoor and outdoor saltwater swimming pools, five types of sauna, a fitness centre, an outdoor running circuit and three private spas dedicated to couples.

The new Postural Programme is available now until 31 March 2010.

Prices start from £1,303 (1,490 euros) per person for the four night programme (based on double occupancy) and from £2,173 (2,485 euros) for the seven night programme.

To book visit www.lefayresorts.com

For reservations including flights call Kuoni on 01306 747008.

At the end of August Thermana Laško opened the new Wellness Park Laško Convention Centre which, together with the Wellness Park Laško Hotel, Thermal Centre and Wellness Centre Spa, forms a self-contained, technologically innovative and architecturally superlative range of facilities for the most demanding conference guests. more: (http://qwx.si/bse)

Let Gorgeous Weekend organise your stress-free festive break to North Yorkshire

Christmas has come early with a selection of festive packages from Gorgeous Weekend.

Gorgeous Weekend, the luxury concierge service specialising in the region, has handpicked its favourite Christmas and New Year breaks to include lazy breakfast times, carol singing, champagne receptions, venetian balls and fireworks to the backdrop of the Yorkshire countryside.

“Our Christmas and New Year’s Eve packages really reflect Gorgeous Weekend’s desire to offer clients the perfect blend of tradition, luxury, home comforts and unique added extras for the perfect festive break” says Claire Cahoon, Director, Gorgeous Weekend.

From self-catering options at stunning eco-lodges to indulgent country house breaks, Gorgeous Weekend recommends a Christmas break at:

*NATURAL RETREATS SELF CATERING ECO LODGES – £186 PER PERSON, BASED ON SIX PEOPLE SHARING FOR FIVE NIGHTS

Get your storybook Christmas this year with roaring log fires and real Christmas trees when you stay at Natural Retreats Lodges.

These spacious luxury lodges located on the outskirts of the Yorkshire Dales National Park are perfect for a grand family gathering with its large open plan kitchen, dining and lounge area. Gorgeous Weekend can complement your rural rambles with a hamper on arrival or by arranging a private chef to cook you dinner.

*THE DEVONSHIRE ARMS – £984.50 PER PERSON, BASED ON TWO PEOPLE SHARING FOR THREE NIGHTS

Gorgeous Weekend recommends this 350 year old Country house complete with a spa set in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales. Sparkle at the Christmas Eve party with mulled wine and mince pies before retiring to your beautiful four poster bed.

Enjoy a traditional Christmas lunch in the AA Rosette winning Burlington Restaurant. Boxing day will see you off to the Wetherby Race course, on guided walks or joining the Airedale Beagles for the traditional Boxing day hunt.

Gorgeous Weekend personally recommends celebrating New Year’s Eve at:

*RUDDING PARK – £165 PER PERSON, BASED ON TWO PEOPLE SHARING FOR TWO NIGHTS FROM 31 DECEMBER

Expect champagne and canapés on arrival, a black tie gala dinner and then attend the Venetian Ball for £15 per person to celebrate 2011 in style.

Retire to your bedroom with larger than average beds, feather duvets and wake up to a full Yorkshire breakfast on both mornings, afternoon tea and dinner using local and seasonal produce.

*THE WHITE SWAN INN – £199 PER PERSON, BASED ON TWO PEOPLE SHARING FOR TWO NIGHTS

Gorgeous Weekends brings guests two nights of pure luxury full of olde worlde charm and real ales in stunning converted barns.

Arrive on the 30 December for afternoon tea in front of a log fire then relax in your superior double bedroom before indulging in champagne, nibbles and a five course dinner.

Prices are inclusive of dinner, bed and breakfast, New Year’s eve entertainment and fireworks at this traditional 16th century Yorkshire inn.

To book any of the above packages please contact concierge@gorgeousweekend.com  or call 0844 736 6276 and plan your very own festive break with all the Gorgeous Weekend trimmings.

For more information on Gorgeous Weekend, please visit www.gorgeousweekend.com

About Gorgeous Weekend

Born out of a love for North Yorkshire and all things luxurious, Gorgeous Weekend is an online travel service specialising in breaks to the area.

Aimed at delivering a first-class customer experience, the team at Gorgeous Weekend offers a selection of exclusive services, from hand-picked accommodation to downloadable PDF guides to each area.

Their concierge service can create bespoke packages tailored to any taste, whether it’s a romantic retreat, a girls’ spa and shopping getaway or a boys’ adrenalin-filled weekend of outdoor frolics from teeing off to hang-gliding.

With local insider knowledge of North Yorkshire, the team at Gorgeous Weekend provides sound recommendations to ensure an unforgettable holiday for each and every one of their clients.

For more information on Gorgeous Weekend, please visit www.gorgeousweekend.com