Jetsettersblog

BE ONE OF THE FIRST TO EXPERIENCE THE NEW HARRY POTTER STUDIO TOUR
Superbreak launches short break packages –

After ten years and eight feature films, Harry Potter fans will soon be able to learn how the magic is created on a brand new Warner Bros Studio Tour ‘The Making of Harry Potter’, which will open 31 March 2012 in Leavesden, Hertfordshire.

Only a handful of companies are currently licensed to sell tickets and UK short break specialist Superbreak is one of them. The breaks, which have just gone on sale, combine overnight accommodation with tickets to the UK’s newest attractions for great value prices. To secure the chance to see where it all began, book now to avoid disappointment.

The studio tour will take place at Warner Bros Studios, where the films were in production for more than a decade. Guests will tour the original sets and see costumes, animatronics, special effects and props used in all eight of the films. Spread over 150,000 square feet, the tour takes in two sound stages and will include some of the most recognisable sets including the Great Hall, Dumbledore’s office, the Gryffindor common room and Hagrid’s hut. Visitors will also have the opportunity to see animatronics in a Creature Effects workshop, including Buckbeak the Hippogriff, Aragog, the giant spider, Fawkes the phoenix and the enormous Basilisk head.

Packages are available that include a timed tour at either 11.30am or 3.30pm.

THE MAKING OF HARRY POTTER TOUR – from £61.50 per person – staying one night at the Travelodge Watford with breakfast and including a timed studio tour. Based on two sharing a room in April 2012.

THE MAKING OF HARRY POTTER TOUR – from £181 per family of four – staying one night in a family room at the Travelodge Watford with breakfast for the adults (children pay locally) and including a timed studio tour. Valid in April 2012.

Leave those diets at the door because the most magical season in the calendar is back. So, why not escape to the country for a traditional Christmas or New Year celebration with Fine Individual Hotels (www.fihotels.com ), a group offering over 50 unique, independent properties scattered across England, Scotland and Wales. Comfort and style go hand-in-hand with festive cheer to ensure that your well-earned break is suitably infused with the complements of the season in some tempting Christmas packages at a range of hotels that are guaranteed to bring the magic back to your Christmas.

Some of the hotels have special packages in the lead up to Christmas. These include:

Headlam Hall, Durham Dales

From 1st to 22nd December Headlam Hall in the Durham Dales is offering mulled wine and mince pies by the fire on arrival at this charming Jacobean country mansion. The hotel’s Pre-Christmas package costs £85 per person per night or £160 per person for two nights. Guests can also visit the nearby medieval Raby Castle where Christmas events take place throughout December including a ‘Santa’s Grotto’ for children.

To book call Headlam Hall on 01325 730238 or visit www.fihotels.com
http://www.fihotels.com/hotels/catalogue/headlam-hall-durham.html

The Crown Inn, Suffolk
Situated in the picturesque village of Stoke by Nayland, The Crown Inn shows its passion for good food and real ale with a variety of pre-Christmas packages to tickle those festive taste buds. Enjoy a one night midweek stay including dinner from £75 per person. For a fabulous pre-Christmas weekend treat, stay Friday and Saturday night in December and enjoy a two course dinner on one night from a total of just £145 per person.

To book call The Crown on 01206 262001 or visit www.fihotels.com

As Christmas gets in full swing, a number of fine individual hotels have put together some festive packages. Here’s a selection from the South Coast to North Yorkshire and the Lake District:

Mortons House Hotel, Corfe Castle, Dorset
Set in the heart of the Isle of Purbeck, enjoy three days of festive feasts at Mortons House Hotel’s which kicks off with a champagne dinner on Christmas Eve, a 6 course gala Christmas Day lunch and is rounded off with a magnificent Elizabethan banquet on Boxing Day evening. The 3 day break for 2 people costs £1,020 per couple.

To book call Mortons House Hotel on 01929 480988 or visit www.fihotels.com
http://www.fihotels.com/hotels/catalogue/mortons-house-hotel-dorset.html#offers

Rudding Park, Harrogate North Yorkshire
Rudding Park offers the perfect venue for a festive celebration with Christmas Eve carols in the hotels own private chapel on the estate and afternoon of Christmas classics screened in the hotel’s own private 14 seater cinema. Two and three night Christmas Escapes are available from £435 per person.

To Book call Rudding Park on 01423 871350 or visit www.fihotels.com
http://www.fihotels.com/hotels/catalogue/rudding-park-hotel-north-yorkshire.html

The Devonshire Fell, North Yorkshire
Situated on the edge of the Duke of Devonshire’s 30,000 acre Bolton Abbey Estate in the Yorkshire Dales, one of the most beautiful unspoilt parts of England. Enjoy some Christmas carols sung by local residents, followed by Champagne, canapés, and a candlelit dinner at the Devonshire Fell Hotel. Or see in the New Year with a champagne reception and canapés. Individual rooms are available for two nights from just £335 per room per night.

To book call The Devonshire Fell on 01756 729000 or visit www.fihotels.com
http://www.fihotels.com/hotels/catalogue/the-devonshire-fell-skipton.html

The Angel Hotel, Bury St Edmund Suffolk
Set in a magical location on one of the prettiest Georgian squares in the country, The Angel Hotel makes an idyllic setting for any Christmas occasion with a trip to the panto on Boxing Day to see Dick Whittington at Bury St Edmund’s Royal Theatre and a magical visit from Santa for the children. The hotel’s three night package cost from £499 per person (based on two sharing) inclusive of full-board, arriving on Christmas Eve.

To book call The Angel Hotel on 01284 714000 or visit www.fihotels.com
http://www.fihotels.com/hotels/catalogue/the-angel-hotel-suffolk.html

Linthwaite House Hotel, Lake Windermere
Set in an Edwardian country house, Linthwaite offers a selection of traditional Christmas treats such as musical entertainment by local bell ringers and the Lakeland Carol Singers as well as a fun gambling casino and a lake cruise as part of it package of Christmas and New Year treats. Relax in cosy armchairs by the roaring log fire and enjoy delicious afternoon teas and mulled wine. Prices start from £249 per person, per night for the minimum four night Christmas stay or three night New Year celebration.

To book call Linthwaite on 015394 88600 or visit www.fihotels.com
http://www.fihotels.com/hotels/catalogue/linthwaite-house-cumbria.html

Lakeside Hotel, Lake Windermere
Located on the edge of Lake Windermere, Lakeside Hotel offers a warm welcome by its glowing open fire or in the Lakeview restaurant and conservatory. Entertainment and activities over Christmas include evening music from the James Alexander Set and the hotel’s resident pianist; a Lakeside casino evening and a trip to see a ‘Winter Wonderland’ at South Lakes Wild Animal Park plus an afternoon cruise on Lake Windermere. The 4 night Lakeside Christmas package costs £715 per person to include dinner, bed and breakfast and all entertainment and activities. Alternatively, a new year break for 4 nights from 30th December which starts from £760 per person.

To book call Lakeside Hotel on 015395 30001 or visit www.fihotels.com
http://www.fihotels.com/hotels/catalogue/lakeside-hotel-windermere.html

Borrowdale Gates, Lake District
With its picture-perfect views towards the towering Lakeland fells this fine country house hotel is situated in what Alfred Wainwright (the celebrated Lakeland author and fell-walker) called ‘the loveliest square mile in Lakeland’. Sit back, relax by the fire, and enjoy a carol concert by the Borrowdale Singers as part of the three night package which costs from £575 per person (based on two sharing), to include a Christmas Day lunch with all the trimmings.

To book call Borrowdale Gates on 017687 77204 or visit www.fihotels.com
http://www.fihotels.com/hotels/catalogue/borrowdale-gates-hotel-keswick.html

The Waterhead Hotel, Coniston, Lake District
The Waterhead is the Lake District’s only 4 star townhouse hotel and offers a festive culinary feast from traditional afternoon teas, champagne and canapés to four course gourmet dinners. Guests can also take part in the hotels casino night, pub quiz and treasure hunt. Packages for 3 or 4 nights start from £600 per person for Christmas and from £550 per person for New Year.

To book call The Waterhead Hotel on 015394 32566 or visit www.fihotels.com
http://www.fihotels.com/hotels/catalogue/waterhead-boutique-hotel-ambleside.html

Rothay Manor Hotel, Ambleside
Rothay Manor Hotel provides a traditional ‘family-style’ Christmas in their special 4 night break which includes well known magician David Lancaster performing on Boxing Day evening. Prices start from £850 per person for the 4 night stay. Alternatively, the hotel’s three night New Year break including champagne, fireworks and party games starts from £690 per person.

To book call Rothay Manor Hotel on 015394 33605 or visit www.fihotels.com
http://www.fihotels.com/hotels/catalogue/rothay-manor-cumbria.html

Wordsworth Hotel and Spa, Grasmere
Beautifully set in two acres of riverside gardens, the Wordsworth Hotel and Spa offers breath taking views of the mountains and Grasmere Vale and is the perfect spot to relax, explore, indulge or be pampered. Special festive entertainment includes carol singing, hand bell ringers, music, dancing and Christmas presents! The Christmas package starts at £475 per person (based on two sharing).

To book call Wordsworth Hotel on 015394 35592 or visit www.fihotels.com
http://www.fihotels.com/hotels/catalogue/the-wordsworth-hotel-and-spa.html#offers

For further information on these and additional Christmas packages at other Fine Individual Hotels, visit http://www.fihotels.com

With the new David Attenborough BBC wildlife series, Frozen Planet showcasing the Arctic at its most amazing maybe you are inspired to see some of the featured wildlife for yourselves instead of from the armchair.

From the safety of a UK tour operator package there are several ways to view arctic wildlife such as polar bears, beluga whales and wolves in the wild in Canada. Nothing beats the thrill of seeing animals in their natural habitat and these tour operators specialise in bringing Canada’s North to you:

Belugas of Hudson Bay

Price from £1,630 per person
Price includes
Return flights between Winnipeg and Churchill ● Return transfers from Churchill Airport to your accommodation ● Two nights accommodation in Winnipeg ● Three nights accommodation in Churchill ● Half day Tundra Buggy tour ● Cultural and Historical Tour of Churchill ● 3-hour beluga whale-watching cruise by boat ● 2-hour beluga whale-watching cruise by zodiac ● Pre-payable airport taxes.

Price excludes

International flights ● meals and beverages ● Airport-hotel transfers in Winnipeg ● Personal travel insurance ● Additional airline or airport taxes or security charges, that are payable locally ● Gratuities & items of a personal nature.

Description
This Canada summer holiday to the north will introduce you to the flora, fauna and history of one of Manitoba’s most unique towns, Churchill. Highlights include the migrating beluga whales at the mouth of the Churchill River, an interpretation of the Hudson’s Bay Company, and a Tundra Buggy excursion taking in the region’s diverse flora and fauna.

The western Hudson Bay population of beluga whales is estimated at around 20,000, and Churchill is one of the most accessible places to see them as 3,000 whales spend their summer in the Churchill River estuary. At the end of the summer the belugas migrate north to the Arctic Ocean.

Beluga whales are small cetaceans, born grey, but turning a distinctive snow white when they reach maturity. They are incredibly friendly and curious which makes getting in the water with them a truly rewarding experience, whether it is snorkelling, kayaking or by boat.
Departure Dates
7, 14, 21, 28 July 2012
4, 11 August 2012

Duration
6 days / 5 nights
Contact Discover the World, the Canada specialists, on 01737 214291 or visit: www.discover-the-world.co.uk/canada

The North Pole

Price from £33,000 per person including flights from London

Price Includes:
International flights, 1 night in Ottawa, One night in Resolute Bay, Twin Otter flight to Eureka before heading up to Discovery Bay. Accommodaton in Eureka , Qaanaq in Greenland , exploring Grise Fjord

Description
This unique opportunity, escorted by Bryan Alexandar, a photographer , your visit to the North Pole will start and end in Canada’s capital city, Ottawa , In between you will fly to Resolute Bay in Nunavut and from there the adventure will truly begin as you head up north to Eureka and on to the North Pole.

Weather conditions play a huge part in arctic travel and although allowances have been made in the itinerary to be flexible if flying conditions become inclement , this journey is completely dependent on weather conditions and if the itinerary has to be altered meaning that it cannot be completed as described a prorated refund or unused air charter costs will be made once final accounting has been settled with the airline. Should additional costs for accommodation be required due to inclement weather these will be the invididual participants responsibility.

Departure Date
April 9th 2012

Duration
10 days

Contact Frontier Canada on :
www.frontier-canada.co.uk
0208 776 8709

Wolves in Winter at Prince Alberta National Park

Price : from £1765 per person

Price Includes: Accommodation , 5 breakfasts, 4 lunches, t dinners, 4 days guide service , passes for entry to national park, snowshoes, dogsled trip (weather permitting) 4 x 4 hire.

Description
A winter time opportunity to explore the edge of the largest forest region in Canada. In this vast boreal forest you will search for grey wolf, moose, elk, great grey owls and lesser known species that are part of this ecosystem . Interpretative guides share their love of nature and in depth knowledge of the landscape with you during your travels through the woods, muskegs and lakes that make up the boreal forest. They understand the patterns of wildlife and do their best to select the most likely routes and locations to find the wild inhabitants as well as their tracks and signs. It is impossible to guarantee sightings however this area is well known for its wildlife populations.

Departure Dates:
Mid February to March 31st 2012

Duration
6 nights

Contact Windows on the wild
www.windowsonthewild.com/canada
(0)208 742 1556

All of the above operators can also tailormake packages to Canada’s North and also sell other winter based experiences across the entire country.

Analyse the Arctic

Price : from £1,695

Price includes : covers volunteer costs excluding international flights

Description
On a trip to Manitoba’s Hudson Bay with conservation charity Earthwatch , help with vital arctic research. Classify ice crystals, measure snowpack, whilst getting to grips with life at winter extreme temperatures , sleep in an igloo, maybe spotting a bear or two and hopefully seeing the northern lights.

Departure Dates:
14 and 22nd February , 2012

Duration
10 – 11 days

Contact: Earthwatch
www.earthwatch.org
Tel. 01865 318831

With the days getting shorter and colder in Britain, GoLearnTo.com are now offering a host of new winter sun solutions in warm Morocco.

Horse Riding Adventure

In Essaouira, GoLearnTo.com are offering adventurous types the chance to saddle up and head off into the wilderness on a truly exotic Horse Riding Holiday for £780 per person including 6 nights’ accommodation. Beginning with 2 nights in a luxury boutique Riad in the centre of Essaouira, guests get acquainted with their horses before embarking on a 3 night/ 4 day trek from nearby Diabat.

This is where the adventure really starts as guests ride across sand dunes, explore local fishing villages and beautiful deserted sandy beaches before ending up at the stunning fishing village of Sidi Kaouki to camp out under the stars. It’s a village steeped in history, full of local life and is warm year round with a refreshing breeze. More recently, it was used as a location for the second Sex and the City film.

At the end of the 4-day trek, the riders head back to the Riad for their final night in Essaouira which has its own welcoming and bohemian atmosphere and is a great place to sit in beach-front cafés sipping mint tea and listening to Gnawa music reflecting on the week’s adventures.

Staying in Essaouira, www.GoLearnTo.com has several others holidays located in the city.

Luxury Surf Holiday

There’s no slumming it on their luxury Surf Holiday where guests stay in a gorgeous boutique-style Riad close to the beach and the Medina. Essaouira beach has the ideal conditions for beginners; while more experienced surfers can take advantage of other local spots like Sidi Kaouki and Taraghazout. Prices start from £482 per person including 6 nights’ accommodation and 12 hours of surf lessons all taught by professional surfers.

Boutique Kitesurf Holiday

For those who prefer harnessing the power of the wind, GoLearnTo.com also offers a luxury Kitesurf Holiday based at the same boutique luxury Riad, with prices starting from £583 per person including all the equipment you need to get swept up in this thrilling sport.

Photography and Cookery Holiday

If all this sounds too energetic for some, Essaouira is also home to GoLearnTo.com’s Photography and Cookery Holiday where guests will stay in a luxury boutique Riad and experience the culture of Morocco through both their lenses and their taste buds. Prices start from £925 per person including 7 nights’ accommodation, most meals, cooking classes with local Moroccan women, group photography lessons where you’ll visit local Berber communities, an Argan oil producer (the latest cosmetic ‘wonder oil’), deserts, souks and more as well as two individual one-to-one photography sessions with the tutor.

All-Suite Riad Yoga Holiday

Just a couple of hours inland, Marrakesh is the venue for GoLearnTo.com’s luxury Yoga holidays. Staying in private suites at an exquisite boutique-style all-suite Riad, guests are in truly sumptuous surroundings and have the chance to completely relax and rejuvenate. Resident tutor and yoga practitioner Perumal has designed his own form of dynamic progressive fusion yoga and gives guests plenty of expert guidance to help them get the most out of their stay. A 3 night break costs from £441 per person and 7 nights is from £947 including accommodation, breakfast and dinner, twice daily yoga lessons and airport transfers from Marrakech by private car to ensure you arrive at this exquisite Riad in style.

Surf and Yoga Holiday

For those who want to combine fitness and wellbeing, GoLearnTo.com’s Surf and Yoga Holiday blends the excitement of surfing with the relaxation of yoga on a unique holiday set in the beautiful fishing village of Taghazout, just 20km from Agadir. With its laid-back vibe, world-renowned surf and incredible cuisine, it’s ideal for a week of sunsets, surf and yoga. Prices start from £420 per person including 7 nights’ accommodation in an oceanfront surf camp.

Surf and Cooking Holiday

Here’s one for those who build up a healthy appetite whilst surfing. 360 miles north along the coast, Bouznika is the home of GoLearnTo.com’s new Surf and Moroccan Cookery Holiday. Surfing by day and cooking with Moroccan locals by night, guests will not only enjoy the consistent and uncrowded waves of North Morocco but also get a chance to discover the secrets behind the flavours of traditional local cuisine.

Bouznika is home to a leg of the European Longboarding Tour and boasts a number of quality breaks for surfers to discover. The town is also famous for its street food and traditional vibe. Prices start from £554 per person including 7 nights’ surf camp accommodation, 6 daily surf lessons and 3 cookery lessons.

To book any of these amazing holidays visit www.GoLearnTo.com.
To speak to one of GoLearnTo.com’s friendly and knowledgeable team call +44(0) 845 625 0445 or email hello@golearnto.com 

Please note: flights are not included, low cost flights available from £50 each way.

For those seeking sunshine on a shoestring this winter, long-haul specialist Tropical Sky is offering fantastically-priced packages to a selection of far-flung destinations from January 2012. So, with hot holidays to destinations including Sri Lanka, Thailand and Mauritius starting from just £889 per person and savings of up to £260 up for grabs, there’s no need to wait until the January sales to bag a bargain!

Suggestions include:

Sri Lanka – On A Shoestring
Nestled in a vast coconut grove along the picturesque golden sands of Kalutara beach, the Mermaid Hotel & Club combines the perfect balance of relaxation and leisure activities and represents excellent value for money. Facilities include a tennis court, two swimming pools, a spa and a choice of restaurants and bars.

A seven-night package to the Mermaid Hotel & Club starts from £889 per person (saving £230 per person). Available for selected departures from 11 January until 29 February, the price includes scheduled flights from Heathrow, accommodation on an all-inclusive basis, taxes, transfers and surcharges.

Thailand – Treat Yourself For Less
Located a stone’s throw from Ao Nang Beach in Krabi Province and boasting views of Nopparat Thana National Park, the boutique Red Ginger Chic Resort is a tropical paradise, offering a wealth of activities including snorkelling, scuba diving, ocean kayaking and even rock climbing. Facilities include a swimming pool, adjacent children’s pool and Jacuzzi and a restaurant and bar.

A seven-night package to the Red Ginger Chic Resort starts from £899 per person (saving £260 per person). Available for selected departures from 11 January until 31 March, the price includes scheduled flights from Heathrow, accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis, taxes, transfers and surcharges.

Mauritius: Enjoy More On All-Inclusive
Situated on a beautiful sandy beach in the coastal village of Trou Aux Biches, Le Palmiste Resort & Spa is ideal for families and couples wanting plenty of facilities and activities to keep them entertained. Facilities include three swimming pools, a spa, a restaurant and even a nightclub.

A seven-night package to Le Palmiste Resort & Spa starts from £1,139 per person (saving £75 per person). Available for selected departures from 5 January until 14 April, the price includes scheduled flights from Gatwick, accommodation on an all-inclusive basis, taxes, transfers and surcharges.

To book any of these offers visit www.tropicalsky.co.uk/deals  or telephone 0844 332 9349

To mark the new-look website of translation service Interpreter-Live.com, travellers purchasing a pre-paid card in November will receive 20% more minutes for free.

A must-have for all those travelling to foreign-speaking countries, Interpreter Live cards provide instant access to a live interpreter who can speak the local language on their behalf.

From medical assistance to directions, having an Interpreter Live card at arm’s reach means language barriers are overcome with the assistance of one of thousands of highly trained interpreters offering more than 200 different languages 24/7.

Cards are available in 20, 30, 40 or 60 minute versions and the 20% extra will be added at checkout when promotions code promo-20 is entered. Promotional purchases are restricted to one per UK household.

All interpreters are formally accredited and the vast majority are “mother tongue” speakers – vital for accurate and consistent interpreting. Specialist interpreters are available on request, to translate medical or legal technical terms.

Interpreter Live can be accessed via www.interpreter-live.com 

Luxury Villa Marketing company Royal Villas Europe is offering you the chance to rent one of the X factor Judges Houses located in Mykonos, Spain, Morocco, Italy or the South of France.

Offering the ultimate in high end luxury villas, Royal Villas Europe has a growing portfolio of more than 450 top end luxury villas in Europe and beyond. Royal Villas motto is “Exclusive Excellence” and their X factor extends not just to the villas but also to the bespoke services it offers.

Private Chef or Butler? Wine Tasting or Private Dinner? Yacht charter or helicopter transfer? No problem. Each villa rental is tailored to the wishes of the client and offers a selection of additional bespoke services. No request is too much trouble.

So if you want to sing like Gary, live like Louis, or twirl like Tulisa in style and luxury why not rent your own X factor house?

We think they’re pretty special, but we’ll let you be the judge!

(PS – Fashion tips not included)

Owners Direct sees rise in enquiries for sunshine destinations in run up to the festive season

Following the coldest summer for two decades and the possibility of an arctic UK winter, holiday rental specialists, Owners Direct has seen a big rise in enquiries to sunshine holiday destinations from now until the festive season in 2011.

The UK based holiday rental specialists has already seen increases in enquiries of over 40% to many sun soaked destinations compared to the same period last year with some of the biggest increases in enquiries being for The Balearic Islands, The Canaries and the Caribbean. And despite October’s unexpected hot spell, it appears Brits are still craving some real winter sun.

Although ski resorts remain a popular choice for winter and Christmas holidays, areas with guaranteed sunshine and warm temperatures are coming out top from those craving some much-needed sun.

And the good news is, there are plenty of bargains to be had right now for those dreaming of a hot Christmas without the associated price tag.

The majority of enquiries are for destinations within a few hours flight of the UK, but the site has also seen an increase for more far flung destinations. For long haul winter destinations, the number of enquiries for holiday homes in Thailand and the Cape Verde Islands have risen by 58 per cent and 70 per cent respectively.

As a result of these figures, Owners Direct predicts that more people intend to jet off for Christmas to sunnier climes this year– preferring to spend it on a beach than by a log fire.

“As the UK has had the coldest summer for over 20 years, it’s not surprising that people are seeking out some winter and Christmas sun. Despite the economic gloom, many people seem to be looking for a white Christmas of the sand variety this year!

With over 37,000 properties at all budgets all over the world at to choose from on the Owners Direct website, it’s easy to make dreams of a white sand Christmas come true ,” said Owners Direct Marketing Manager, Angela Southall.

Looking for some winter sun this Christmas yourself? Here are some suggestions for hot hot hot destinations from Owners Direct:

White Christmas
This fully air conditioned villa in Jolly Harbour, Antigua, is set on a private estate. The ‘local’ beach is bright white sand and azure waters. The villa sleeps 6/8 and has a full sized swimming pool and superb leisure facilities nearby including18 hole golf course and sports centre. Cost from December 2011 to January 2012 is £1250. Property ref: http://www.ownersdirect.co.uk/caribbean/CB140.htm

Barbecued turkey on the beach in Fuerteventura
Spend Christmas on a prime seafront location in Fuerteventura where the average daily temperature at Christmas varies very little from that of the summer. This villa sleeping eight is bang on the beach with a lovely stroll to the island’s famous sand dunes. Cost between December and January is £1100. . Property ref: http://www.ownersdirect.co.uk/canaries/C386.htm

Your own private Christmas party in Ibiza
This beautiful villa with romantic tower and private pool halfway up a mountain in Ibiza is the idea Christmas retreat, yet very central for the fashionable village of San Jose. The villa sleeps eight so you can bring out your favourite friends or family for your own private party. All the bedrooms have their own balconies and the house is full of mod cons including a home cinema system and Sky TV. Perfect for winter breaks as it has central heating for chillier December nights. Cost per week is approximately £1,000 and the villa is currently available for Christmas 2011. Property ref: http://www.ownersdirect.co.uk/balearics/B4294.htm

Head to the city-by-the-sea this Christmas for ice skating, lantern parades, Christmas pudding races and freezing robins

Brighton brings some sparkle to its cosmopolitan streets this winter with a showcase of distinctive events that promise to make Christmas cultural, festive and fun.

The stunning Royal Pavilion Ice Rink is set to return. Complete with a pop-up, rink-side restaurant and bar, the attraction is set against the beautiful backdrop of the Pavilion Gardens.

One of the city’s most enchanting events returns on 21 December. Visitors can join locals for the spectacular Burning the Clocks to mark the shortest day of the year. Fantastic paper and willow lantern creations are paraded to the beach for burning on a bonfire while onlookers enjoy a dazzling firework display.

New to Brighton is the intriguing Christmas Pudding Race. With fancy dress and live music to accompany the festive fun this promises to be an entertaining day out for the whole family.

Families can also enjoy a festive feast of puppets, live music, snowball fights and bird-watching with ‘Robin and the Big Freeze’ at the Brighton Dome this Christmas.

Shoppers can shun the crowded high street and wind their way through Brighton’s quirky Lanes to pick up something unique for Christmas. With bespoke and handcrafted gifts at the independent boutiques as well as Brighton’s unique Artists’ Open Houses, Christmas shopping in Brighton is to be enjoyed rather than endured.

With over 350 independent shops and boutiques plus a fantastic range of accommodation to suit every budget, Brighton is the place to head for a stylish festive break.
For more information on what to see and do in Brighton, go to www.Visitbrighton.com

Brighton’s Christmas events include:

The Royal Pavilion Ice Rink & Restaurant
The Royal Pavilion, Brighton, 12 November – 22 January
Returning to the city for its second season, the ice rink is ideal for families with its pre-school crèche, learners’ area and penguin skating aids to help increase children’s confidence on the ice. Afterwards skaters can satisfy their hunger pangs at the pop-up rink-side restaurant and bar. Tickets from £9.50 for adults and £6.50 for children. For more information please visit www.royalpavilionicerink.co.uk  or www.VisitBrighton.co.uk.

Christmas Artists’ Open Houses

Brighton & Hove, 26 – 27 November, 3 – 4 December and 10 – 11 December
This creative and inspiring festival provides a great opportunity for visitors to explore art work in artists’ houses across the city. Not only will individuals get to talk to the artists about their work but they will be able to purchase the unique arts, crafts and designs whilst enjoying a glass of mulled wine and mince pie. For more information please visit http://www.aoh.org.uk/  or www.VisitBrighton.co.uk.

Christmas Pudding Race
New Road, Brighton, 3 December

Take part in teams of seven and attempt to balance a Christmas pudding on a tray whilst winding through an obstacle course. Teams will be awarded prizes for the best fancy dress and quickest team with all proceeds going to Cancer Research and the Martlets Hospice. The event will also be hosting bands to entertain the crowds in the day.

Entry is £5 per person. For more information please visit www.xmaspuddingrace.org.uk  or www.VisitBrighton.co.uk 

Brighton Dome Tea Dance
Brighton Dome, 4 December

Take a break from Christmas shopping with a day spent recapturing the golden age of the 1920s. Dance in true tea-dance style as the 15-piece Footloose Dance Orchestra bring everyone’s favourite dance styles from the jazz-age swing of the foxtrot to the Latin lilt of the tango and rumba. Visitors can then relax and catch up with an afternoon tea in the Concert Hall foyer.
Tickets £12.50, including tea and cake.

For more information please visit www.brighotndome.org  or www.VisitBrighton.co.uk 

Carol Concert
The Royal Pavilion, 8 December

Join Brighton’s choir at the Royal Pavilion this Christmas to enjoy a day of Christmas carol singing, mince pies and mulled wine.
For more information please visit www.brighton-hove-rpml.org.uk/RoyalPavilion or www.VisitBrighton.co.uk

Robin and the Big Freeze
Brighton Dome, 8 – 10 December

This snowy, festive feast of puppets, live music and bird-watching is a heart-warming show. The show is suitable for the whole family to enjoy.
For more information please visit www.brightondome.org or www.VisitBrighton.co.uk 

Meze Experience
Royal Pavilion, 10 & 17 December, 6.30pm
A slightly different way to celebrate Christmas, indulge in a totally unique Christmas banquet, dining in the luxurious Moroccan surroundings of the Royal Pavilion. Visitors can enjoy a mouth-watering three-course meal provided by renowned Julia Robinson Catering after a festive welcome drink and unique tour of Brighton’s most famous landmark.
Tickets £90 per person. Bookings required.

For more information please visit www.brighton-hove-rpml.org.uk/RoyalPavilion  or www.VisitBrighton.co.uk 

Brighton Santa Dash
Hove Seafront, 10 December, 10.30am

Ho! Ho! Ho! Brighton will see a flurry of Santas dash through the streets again for the annual charity Santa dash. A 5km run along the chilly seafront, Santas will be trading in their boots for trainers to help raise money for ‘Passing it on’. To make it a family event, children can take part in the 400m kids race at 10.20am just before, which is free to enter.

Entry fee £12, includes Santa suit and medal.
For more information please visit www.santadash.com/pages/brighton  or www.VisitBrighton.co.uk.

Christmas Ball
Brighton Dome, 19 December

Enjoy the music, moonlight, love and romance at this year’s seasonal ballroom celebration. The Berkeley Square Society Band invites visitors to dress up in their finest to dance the night away as Brighton recaptures the halcyon days of classic ballroom dance.

Tickets £12.50 per person, £22 for couples.
For more information please visit www.brightondome.org  or www.VisitBrighton.co.uk.

Burning the Clocks
Winter Solstice Parade, 21 December

Thousands of the city’s residents and visitors gather each year to make paper and willow lanterns to parade through the city and burn in a giant pyre on the beach, marking the end of the shortest day and making a wish for the coming year.

For more information please visit www.burningtheclocks.co.uk  or www.VisitBrighton.co.uk.

Christmas Day Swim
Brighton Seafront, 25 December

Head to the sea on Christmas day and support the Brighton swimming club as they don fancy dress costumes and brave the chilly waters for their annual Christmas Day swim. For more information please go to www.VisitBrighton.co.uk

Blue the yellow lab is on the road again, sniffing out the finest accommodation and experiences for his Chien Bleu clients. This week, Chien Bleu has shaken paws with Queensberry estate and Trigony House Hotel, both in Scotland, to offer new and exclusive Rover Safari Experiences and Packages that are sure to get travellers’ tails wagging.

Chien Bleu is the UK’s first and only specialist tour operator dedicated to seeking out the finest accommodation for dogs and their owners. Customising trips is the Chien Bleu speciality, whether it be the extra touches of a goose-feather bed or your pup’s favourite pie waiting on arrival. Trigony House Hotel, featured in the Chien Bleu portfolio, is situated close to the Queensberry estate in Dumfries & Galloway. As both a Scottish Gem and the perfect setting in which to safari with your Spaniel, the largest of the Buccleuch Estates, the Queensbury Estate, boasts the magnificent Drumlanrig Castle as its centrepiece.

Humans are not the only safari fans, and with the exclusive Chien Bleu Rover Safari Experience, dogs and their owners will enjoy the chance to spectate from the Rover Jeep before rambling the Nithsdale Valley in Dumfriesshire, an area unrivalled in rugged beauty and natural history. Journeying from the River Nith to the rolling Lowther Hills, the expert Buccleuch Ranger services team will lead the way as Chien Bleu guests get up close and personal with the heather moorland, otters, squirrels, woodpeckers and owls. Stop for a biscuit break and marvel at the panoramic vista providing a memorable hill top experience.

When the pooch is puffed out, return to Trigony House Hotel, a beautiful country house set in four acres of woodlands and gardens. The hotel’s relaxing surroundings and luxurious interiors make Chien Bleu guests feel truly at home: Chien Bleu guests can put their paws up and enjoy a drink in front of the roaring fire after a day of tracking. The fresh county air of Dumfries and Galloway will have guests eagerly awaiting the rustic cuisine at Trigony House Hotel, where locally sourced ingredients are complimented by produce from the garden. Enjoy delicious wholesome food in the restaurant, or if your four legged friend wishes to join you for dinner then tempt him with haggis in the cosy bar.

A Chien Bleu Rover Safari Experience and stay costs from £590 for two nights dinner, bed & breakfast in a superior room and a land rover safari for two humans & one dog. Rover Safaris can also be booked separately for £110, for two humans and one dog.

To book call Chien Bleu Travel on 0800 033 7385 or visit www.chienbleutravel.com