Jetsettersblog

The magnificent new The Spa at The Twelve Apostles Hotel has been recognised as one of the world’s very best, clinching the SPA Traveller Awards’ Best International Hotel Spa award.

This prestigious award adds to the growing list of international accolades for the properties in The Red Carnation Hotel Collection. The Spa at Bushmans Kloof won the Unique Spa category at the 2011 Les Nouvelles Esthetiques Spa Awards; the following year The Spa at The Oyster Box received the Resort/Hotel Spa Category of the same awards ceremony.

These highly regarded awards make a visit to The Spas of The Red Carnation Hotel Collection South Africa a must for any local or international traveller seeking an exceptional spa experience.

The inaugural SPA Traveller Awards reveal some of the world’s hidden gems, along with the best romantic getaways, family-friendly destinations and wellbeing retreats. The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa is the only South African property to be included on this prestigious international list.

The Twelve Apostles Hotel boasts unparalleled views of its stunning natural surroundings, enough to also clinch the runner-up position in The Spa Traveller Awards Best International Spa with a View category.

“Carved out of the mountain, set between the towering Twelve Apostles mountain range and the Atlantic Ocean, this dazzling white space offers a nurturing, soothing haven that looks to air and light as its elemental references,” says Horst Frehse, General Manager of The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa.

The recently refurbished Spa was designed by Toni Tollman, whose family owns this award-winning Red Carnation Hotel Collection of boutique properties. It features seven superbly equipped treatment rooms for dual and single treatments with a hydrotherapy bath and rain showers, as well as a Rasul Chamber for traditional cleansing rituals using steam and mud, a Perfect Finish Salon for manicures and pedicures, a Tranquillity Lounge and Wild Lanyana Aromatherm Room for hydrotherapy treatments, or a Vichy Shower.

The Spa’s sparkling white interiors use natural stone, marble, granite and glass to create a textured feeling throughout, embracing the energy of the sea and mountain. The Spa’s exclusive range of B|Africa products, inspired by the natural surroundings of all three Red Carnation Hotel Collection properties in South Africa – The Twelve Apostles Hotel, Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve Wellness Retreat and The Oyster Box – is another pampering touch.

“We’d like to extend hearty congratulations and heartfelt thanks to our fantastic Spa team, for their dedication to their customers and their commitment to excellence,” says Toni Tollman. “We are immensely proud of our beautiful new Spa, and thrilled that our guests clearly love it as much as we do.”

The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa was also included in the Condé Nast Traveler’s 2011 Readers Choice Awards, Top 20 Hotels for Africa/Middle East.

About The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa

This five star Cape Town hotel is poised above the Atlantic Ocean, flanked by the majestic Table Mountain and The Twelve Apostles mountain range. The hotel’s interior design is inspired by its namesake, creating a fresh, calming environment that artfully combines sophistication with simplicity, comfort and elegance. Guests are five minutes from the most beautiful beaches and Camps Bay and fifteen minutes from the City Centre and V&A Waterfront with many vineyards within easy reach. Guests are spoilt by spectacular views of the ocean and mountain views with each of their 70 bedrooms and suites including the Presidential Suite, each superbly designed to provide the utmost comfort and style. The hotel boasts two pools perched above the ocean, award-winning health & beauty spa ; Azure restaurant, a 24 hour cafe and the Leopard Room Bar & Lounge; meeting, events & weddings facilities for up to 90 guests; and 16-seater private cinema. Guest also receive complimentary transfer service to & from the V&A Waterfront or can choose to arrive by helicopter to the hotels Helistop. The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa is a part of The Red Carnation Hotel Collection and a member of Leading Hotels of the World.

To make a reservation contact Tel: +27 (0) 21 437 9000, email bookta@12apostles.co.za or visit www.12apostleshotel.com

From December 22, 2011 to March 19, 2012, guests staying two nights will receive 15% off per night, while guests staying three nights or more will receive 20% off per night. Plus, guests will receive a credit of $40 at Mooo…, the signature modern steakhouse restaurant. Package rates begin at $295.

Located in the heart of Beacon Hill, XV Beacon is a modern 62-room luxury boutique hotel housed in a turn-of-the-century Beaux Arts building. Each room is individually designed, so no two rooms are alike, all with their own fireplace. What’s more, they are pet-friendly and welcome guest with furry friends, offering homemade healthy dog biscuits, a plush bed, turn down water and more. Plus, 100% of the optional $25 pet donation goes to the MSPCA.

LAS VEGAS — Treat yourself to two nights at the luxurious and exciting Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino and enjoy two rounds of championship golf at GolfWeek’s “Top 100 Resort Course,” Bali Hai Golf Club and the Royal Links Golf Club, starting from $599.
Dates: June 1, 2011 – December 31, 2011
Price range: $599 – $699
For more information, please click here.
http://waltersgolf.com/las-vegas-golf-packages.asp

Fantasy in Lights® at Callaway Gardens bedazzles young and old nightly, Nov. 18-Dec 30, continuing a tradition started two decades ago.

Families choose a time (6, 7 or 8 p.m.) and board the fun, interactive “Jolly Trolley” or take their own car while navigating more than five miles and 14 striking holiday scenes at the 13,000-acre destination about an hour southwest of Atlanta and thirty minutes north of Columbus.

Take a break from the electrifying displays and gather round two narrated scenes on Robin Lake Beach, Twas the Night Before Christmas and The Nativity, each lasting about 10 minutes.

Then, unwrap more holiday magic at the Christmas Village, open daily beginning at 4 p.m., an indoor magical wonderland shopping area with opportunities to visit Santa Claus and other holiday characters.

Check off all the good folks on your list as you shop for specialty food items at the Callaway Gardens Country Store®, gather unique gifts, and reminisce with nostalgic toys from simpler times while divining decorating inspiration from an assortment of holiday ornaments. An array of Georgia crafters will be on hand making and selling their wares.

Purchase tickets in advance online or by phone; prices range from $16 (Value Night) to $22 (Prime Night) for adults and $8 (Value Night) to $11 (Prime Night) for children; children five and younger are admitted for free but must still have a “free child” ticket. If purchased on-site, tickets are $25 per adult and $12.50 for children 6-12; children five and younger are free.

See website for the Fantasy In Lights overnight packages (which include tickets to the light show) starting at $99 per night on Value Nights and $124 on Prime Nights. Special military rates available. To experience the most spectacular holiday light and show in the South, visit www.CallawayGardens.com or call 1-800-CALLAWAY (225-5292).

About Callaway Gardens
For almost 60 years, Callaway Gardens has provided “a place of relaxation, inspiration and a better understanding of the living world” for millions of visitors. Owned and operated by the non-profit Ida Cason Callaway Foundation, Callaway Gardens includes a garden, resort, preserve and residential community on 13,000 acres in Pine Mountain, Georgia. Highlights include a butterfly conservatory, horticultural center, discovery center, chapel, inland beach, nature trails and special events throughout the year.

In addition, Callaway Gardens offers nearly 80,000 square feet of meeting space, 763 guest rooms, restaurants, shops, golf, tennis, fishing and more. Five unique, close-knit residential communities –with custom home sites, lakefront properties and cottages on the golf course – offer an ideal home away from home or full-time residence. Callaway Gardens is home to a 4,610-acre forest preserve which is under conservation easement. This conserved, sustainably-managed land is used for biological studies and environmental education programs.

San Diego is a year-round travel destination offering a plethora of annual events. No matter what time of year, visitors can travel to San Diego and find an extraordinary range of colorful street festivals, parades, concerts, sporting events, specialty fairs and much more. For up-to-the-minute event listings and changes, visit www.sandiego.org/eventcalendar.

Jan. 23-29
Farmers Insurance Open
The annual PGA Tour men’s golf tournament is played at the Torrey Pines Golf Course in La Jolla, home of the 2008 U.S. Open.

May-Sept. TBD
The Old Globe Theatre’s Summer Shakespeare Festival
Three dynamic Shakespeare productions are performed in nightly rotation in the outdoor Lowell Davies Festival Theatre of the Tony Award ®-winning Old Globe theatre in Balboa Park.

July 12-15
Comic-Con International
The largest comics and pop culture event in the United States attracts thousands of artists, celebrities and fans of comic books, movie memorabilia and all things related to pop culture to the San Diego Convention Center in downtown San Diego.

Nov. 2-12
San Diego Beer Week
Hundreds of beer-centric events take place throughout the county during this 10-day festival that highlights San Diego’s award-winning craft beer, breweries and pubs.

See the complete calendar of 2012 events in San Diego.

NORTH COUNTY SIGNATURE EVENTS

San Diego’s North County is a popular vacation destination that delights visitors with a variety of special events throughout the year. From an annual PGA men’s tour golf tournament in the winter to the popular San Diego County Fair in the summer, visitors to San Diego’s North County can find an extraordinary range of sporting events, colorful street festivals and fairs, holiday celebrations and more.

Apr. 15
Fallbrook Avocado Festival
Since the 1960s, tens of thousands of avocado lovers converge in Fallbrook to sample avocados, check-out the crazy cooking contest entries, buy funky avocado-themed gifts and enjoy bands, live entertainment and friendly beer gardens.

July 18-Sep. 5
Del Mar Racing
Horses and fans alike meet for live thoroughbred racing five days a week at the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club in oceanfront Del Mar.

Oct. 12-14
MCAS Miramar Air Show
An award-winning, world-class air show features the best military and civilian pilots in the world, including the U.S. Navy’s famous Blue Angels.

View more North County signature events.

CORONADO SIGNATURE EVENTS

Just a bridge away from downtown San Diego, an exciting array of annual and special events awaits visitors to the “Crown City” of Coronado. From a star-spangled Fourth of July celebration honoring the city’s proud U.S. Navy heritage, to sparkling Christmas festivities and the largest flower show in the West, there are a number of signature events for visitors to enjoy throughout the year.

Apr. 21-22
87th Annual Coronado Flower Show
The largest tented flower show in the West takes place in Spreckels Park; this year’s theme is “A Floral Olympiad.” Flower exhibits are displayed inside tents surrounding a central gazebo, which becomes the stage for live entertainment and trophy presentations. There are also flower sales and food vendors. Tickets are $5 for adults; children 12 and under are free.

July 4
Fourth of July Celebration
San Diego’s most popular Independence Day celebration includes a 15K run/walk, rough-water swim at North Beach, two-hour parade down Orange Avenue, Art-in-the-Park and afternoon concert in Spreckels Park and spectacular fireworks display over Glorietta Bay Inn.

Dec. 7
37th Annual Coronado Christmas Open House & Parade
Guests can get in the holiday spirit with Santa Claus arriving by ferry across San Diego Bay and a Snow Mountain play area at the Coronado Ferry Landing. Afterwards, a colorful holiday parade and Merchants Open House takes place along Orange Avenue, followed by the traditional tree lighting of a 50-foot Christmas tree and free community concert in Rotary Park.

View more Coronado signature events.

EAST COUNTY SIGNATURE EVENTS

From the annual apple harvest of a quaint mountain town to the bloom of the wildflowers that carpets the desert each spring, the following are highlights of the year-round events that await visitors in San Diego’s East County.

February – April
Wildflowers Bloom in the Desert
Each spring, the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park turns into a wonderland of color when wildflowers, nourished by winter rains, burst into bloom. The exact timing of the blossoms varies year-to-year based on precipitation patterns.

Apr. 20-22
48th Annual Lakeside Rodeo
Bareback bronco rides, calf roping and other traditional rodeo competitions, along with food and crafts, bring the Wild West to life in the rural town of Lakeside. The rodeo excitement continues May 18-20 as rustic Ramona embraces its Wild West roots with an Annual Rodeo that includes barrel racing, bull riding, saddle bronco riding, team roping, a cowgirl fashion show, cowboy and cowgirl mixer and Kid’s Day.

September – October
Annual Julian Fall Apple Days and Harvest
Local residents and guests celebrate autumn with music, art shows, cider and delicious apple pies in the charming mountain town of Julian.

View more East County signature events.

Happiness is calling in San Diego. For more information on San Diego offerings, including exciting vacation packages and valuable coupons for attractions, restaurants and more, visit the San Diego Convention & Visitors Bureau’s Web site, www.sandiego.org, or call 619-236-1212. In San Diego, visit the International Visitor Information Center, located along the Embarcadero at the corner of West Broadway and Harbor Drive in downtown; the La Jolla Visitor Center, located at the corner of Herschel Avenue and Prospect Street in La Jolla; or the California Welcome Center, located at the Viejas Outlet Center in Alpine.

Whistler, B.C. – Mother Nature is giving Whistler an early season gift, with snow currently falling in the Village and up to 35 centimetres in the alpine forecast.

Whistler Blackcomb announced this week that Whistler Mountain would open this Friday, November 18 –
six days in advance of the original planned opening (Blackcomb will open, as scheduled, on November 24). In addition to Mother Nature’s bounty, the snowmaking team at Whistler Blackcomb has contributed, turning more than 50 million gallons of water into snow; the equivalent of covering 250 football fields with up to one foot of snow, bringing the base at Pig Alley to 57 centimetres.

In addition to the early season opening, Whistler has a number of events taking place to mark the start of the 2011/ 2012 winter season.

Special events kick-off November 24, in time to welcome our American visitors for U.S. Thanksgiving.

Whistler Presents: A winter fireworks display
This complimentary event takes place at 8 p.m. on Thursday, November 24 with a dazzling display of fireworks (best viewed from Skiers’ Plaza).

Whistler Presents: A winter kick-off concert
On Saturday, November 26, Canadian bands Loverboy with special guests Trooper will take to the stage at Whistler Olympic Plaza. Tickets are available for purchase at www.whistler.com; capacity is limited! Doors open at 6:30 p.m. with Trooper taking to the stage under the pavilion at 7 p.m. and Loverboy at 8:45 p.m.

Whistler Presents: Pixar Shorts
In celebration of Pixar Animation Studio’s 25th anniversary, the Resort Municipality of Whistler, in association with the Whistler Film Festival, presents a never-before-seen program of Pixar Shorts under the roof of the Whistler Olympic Plaza pavilion as part of the Whistler Presents series. From 4 p.m. – 5:30 p.m., enjoy several of the Pixar feature film characters. There is no charge for this event.

Whistler Sabbatical Project
Tourism Whistler presents the ultimate contest with the Whistler Sabbatical Project. Running for 15 weeks throughout the winter, The Whistler Sabbatical Project is the opportunity to win a one-month all-expenses Whistler Sabbatical, complete with airfare, ground transfers, accommodation, lift passes, equipment and a salary … not to mention a series of unique Whistler experiences. Would You Do It?

Last year was one of Whistler’s snowiest on record with the resort tallying a whopping cumulative snowfall of more than 51 feet. This year, meteorologists are predicting another La Nina weather pattern bringing cooler temperatures and plenty of snow to the Coastal Mountain Range.

Whistler Mountain opens at 8:30 a.m. on Friday, November 18 with skiing and riding open on the Emerald Express, Big Red Express and Franz’s Chair. Upload access from the Creekside Gondola and the Whistler Village Gondola. Mountain officials warn early season conditions should be expected and that caution should be exercised as the terrain available this early in the season is best for intermediate to advanced skiers and riders.

Remember, if you’re looking for the inside track on what makes Whistler tick, be sure to visit the Whistler Insider, Tourism Whistler’s blog where local writers provide the inside scoop on all things Whistler.

At www.whistler.com, Whistler’s official source for visitor bookings and resort information, guests can create custom vacation packages. Whistler-based travel consultants have unbeatable local experience and Whistler.com offers the largest selection and one-stop shopping with no booking fee for accommodation, lift tickets or activities. Call 1.800.WHISTLER (1.800.944.7853) to request a no-obligation quote or visit whistler.com for more details and offers.

Traveling overseas requires an updated passport and the proper travel visas.
WASHINGTON, DC, – A fact that most travelers might not be aware of is that their common medical insurance plans aren’t accepted at many overseas locations. This means that a traveler is vulnerable to high costs. There is an additional issue in that overseas hospitals often demand that any foreign patient provide proof that they will be able to pay bills. Imagine trying to convey this kind of information in a place that doesn’t speak English or in an emergency situation. That is why Travel Document Systems offers travelers’ insurance, and encourages its clients to add it to their trip preparation.

Because they understand the needs of travelers and have experience in dealing with many foreign nations, the people at Travel Documents are in a unique position to offer the best deals on travel insurance. The outstanding feature with the type of insurance offered through their website is the ability for travelers to print out an insurance ID card upon acceptance. This puts all one’s important travel documents at one easy-to-access online destination. Along with the medical coverage, these insurance plans also can provide remuneration for trip cancellation or lost luggage. There is also 24-hour hotline assistance provided to all policy holders that connects them with a local pharmacy to refill prescriptions.

Part of the coverage that is provided by Liaison International is a complete insurance package that covers medical expenses for injury or illness with payouts between $50,000 and $1,000,000 maximum, emergency medical evacuation with reimbursements up to $100,000, and Accidental Death & Dismemberment at $25,000. This coverage is for anywhere from 15 days to 3 years. There is also reimbursement for loss of luggage. Also, in the event of your trip being interrupted by a terrorist incident, you can be reimbursed for your losses.

With an insurance policy purchased through Roundtrip, a traveler could have the costs of their trip refunded if they have to cancel the trip due to a member of their immediate family becoming ill or injured before they leave. The maximum amount of payout for this type of cancellation is $20,000. Roundtrip provides for a maximum of between $10,000 and $50,000 for an emergency medical evacuation.

Obtaining one of these policies through Travel Document Systems provides added peace of mind for any traveler.

About the Company:
Travel Document Systems, Inc. (TDS) is a leading visa and passport processing agency. For nearly 26 years, we have served travel professionals, tour operators, and cruise lines, as well as corporate and individual international travelers. TDS specializes in visas for travel to multiple countries.

Resort Glistens with its popular Christmas and New Year’s Holiday Packages

COLORADO SPRINGS, CO . . . . For those looking for the perfect winter wonderland this holiday season, there’s “snow place” like Cheyenne Mountain Resort, who has unveiled its Christmas and New Year’s packages for 2011.

“Unwrap the Magic” This Christmas!

Families and couples alike will want to load up the “sleigh” this Christmas and head for the sparkling snow-covered hills of Colorado Springs to take advantage of Cheyenne Mountain Resort’s Unwrap the Magic Package. Available December 1 – 24, this magical package includes:

v Live holiday entertainment every Friday & Saturday from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. (Dec. 2-17
v You buy it – we wrap it! Complimentary gift wrapping daily from 3 – 5 p.m. (3 gifts per visit)
v Complimentary “Elf” Christmas cookies & milk turndown (Dec. 10, 17, 23, 24)
v Tree lighting ceremony – December 1st
v “Reindeer Games” Kidz Camp every Saturday from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. (Addt’l price)
v Complimentary hot cider for kids and hot “toddies” for adults and S’mores roasts on the Sundance Terrace every Saturday from 3 – 4:30 p.m. (Dec. 3, 10, 17, 24)
v Santa’s Sunday Brunch – a longtime tradition and holiday favorite. Every Sunday from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Complimentary portraits will be available for all brunch guests. Price for adults is $30; $15 for children 9 – 12; and children under eight years old eat FREE. (Dec. 4, 11, 18)

Before settling in for a “long winter’s nap”, make sure to check this package off on your holiday wish list and deck the halls full of family memories this Christmas at Cheyenne Mountain Resort! For reservations or information, visit www.cheyennemountain.com . or call toll free, 1-800-588-0250.

*(Any package restrictions for Christmas?)

New Year’s Cheers

Dance, dine and dream this New Year’s Eve at Cheyenne Mountain Resort. Amidst the snow capped Rockies, guests will enjoy cozy deluxe accommodations and a lavish buffet dinner for two in the resort’s signature Mountain View restaurant. Couples may then dance the night away to the diverse sounds of one of Colorado’s famed bands, Soul X – who can play anything from classic standards and classic rock to favorite decades and hip hop. Guests will ring in the New Year with a colorfully festive balloon drop, bubble champagne toast and a late night snack to soak up the fun! In addition, guests may also sip and savor to the sounds of Bossa Nero a Latin Jazz trio in the Will Rodgers Lounge.

After a full night of fun and fancy, indulge in brunch for two and cure the hangover blues the following morning in the Mountain View restaurant. A guaranteed late check-out of 2 p.m. allows for a little more sleep, and time to stop by the Bloody Mary Bar at the Will Rodgers Lounge and catch some great New Year’s Day football games!

Cheyenne Mountain Resort’s all-inclusive New Year’s Eve package begins at $449 per couple. Additional nights may be added to the package beginning at $149 per night.* For reservations or information, visit www.cheyennemountain.com . Or call toll free, 1-800-588-0250.

About Cheyenne Mountain Resort
Nestled against the stunning Rocky Mountains on 217 acres in Colorado Springs and managed by Benchmark Hospitality International, the AAA Four Diamond Cheyenne Mountain Resort, offers 316 finely appointed guest rooms and suites, featuring Rocky Mountain-inspired décor clustered in eight residential-style lodges. The resort features more than 40,000 square feet of newly renovated IACC-certified meeting space with 38 dedicated meeting rooms including a tiered amphitheater. In addition, Cheyenne Mountain offers three distinct dining venues including its signature restaurant The Mountain View, featuring Colorado Fusion cuisine. A vast array of recreational amenities include an 18-hole championship Pete Dye golf course, five sparkling pools, tennis and racquetball courts, a fitness center, acquatics center and a 35-acre recreation lake. For information or room reservations call 1-800-588-0250 or visit www.cheyennemountain.com

Featuring Ireland, Italy, Eastern Europe, and the Balkans ~

Brendan Vacations, the Ireland Specialist, and an award-winning leader in providing unique and memorable guided vacations, is delighted to announce its new, exclusive 2012 European Guided Vacations brochure featuring Ireland, Italy and all of Europe’s grandest cities. And for the first time, Brendan Vacations is introducing Eastern Europe and the Balkans. The new brochure offers 13 new guided vacations for 2012, all guaranteed to depart on days scheduled.

A variety of exciting emerging European destinations is revealed in this latest product offering from Brendan, especially for those looking to re-discover Europe or expand their horizons on the continent. New destinations include: Italy; Russia; Serbia; Baltic States; Ukraine; Hungary; Poland; Albania; Macedonia; Croatia; Slovenia; Czech Republic and Germany. Click here for the ebrochure!

According to Nico Zenner, President of Brendan Vacations, “We are very excited to launch these new and intriguing itineraries. Brendan’s ‘Taking You Personally’ motto is very telling of the kinds of experiences and destinations we continue to reveal for our customers. Our novel Guided Vacations in Central and Eastern Europe, and in the Balkans, and our nontraditional take on cities like Venice assure our guests to seeing these places in a most exclusive way.”

As with all of Brendan’s guided vacations, each new itinerary highlights the region’s most culturally rich and visually stunning landscapes and now include additional immersive and personal touch components which will significantly enhance the understanding and appreciation of the local culture, peoples and sights. These include “Welcome Receptions,” “You’re Personally Invited” immersive dinners hosted at local homes and upgraded hotel accommodations in certain cities.

Brendan Vacations offers the following new itineraries as Definite Departures, include First Class accommodations, breakfast daily, and some lunches and dinners (vary per tour).

Book any 2012 Europe or Ireland Vacation before December 1, 2011, and save up to $1000 per couple!*

Crossroads of Cultures and Contrasts: Bosnia, Croatia & Slovenia—12 Days. A grand adventure starting with two nights in Sarajevo. Continue to Dubrovnik on the Adriatic coast for a two-night stay. Then head north to Split, and on to Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Next is the coastal resort of Opatija, Postojna Cave and Bled for a two-night stay. A stop in Ljubljana and two nights in Zagreb finish your vacation in style. Priced from $1985 land only, based on double occupancy.

Discovering the Balkans— 11 days. Highlights include the National History Museum in Sofia, where gold and silver Thracian treasures are displayed, and visits to the Kalemegdan Fortress in Belgrade and Hunedoara. Guests will also visit the famed properties of the Bran and Peles Castles and the Parliament Palace in Bucharest, the second largest building in the world. Includes Sofia, Belgrade, Sibiu, Brasov and Bucharest. Priced from $1758 land only, based on double occupancy.

From Greece to Dalmatia—17 days. Highlights include city tour of Athens with visits to such historic sites such as the immortal Acropolis, a visit to the Temple of Apollo in Delphi and a visit to the ruins of Rozafa Castle, which is set on a hill high above the city of Shkodra. Includes Athens, Kalambaka, Ohrid, Tirana, Dubrovnik, Split, Plitvice Lakes, Postojna Cave, Bled, Ljubljana and Zagreb. Priced from $3288 land only, based on double occupancy.

Highlights of Slovenia— 8 days. Enjoy the best of Slovenia on this week-long vacation. Begin with a night in Ljubljana. Next, visit unique Postojna Cave, one of the largest in Europe, then on to Piran. Travel to the coastal resort of Portoroz, stop at the Secovlje Salt-pans, and take a break in Nova Gorica. Your vacation ends in with a relaxing three-night stay in stunning Bled, a peaceful town situated in the majestic Alps. Includes Ljubljana, Postojna, Piran, Goriska Brda, Soca Valley, Bled and Bohinj. Priced from $1566 land only, based on double occupancy.

Fabled Cities of Europe: Zagreb to Venice—15 days . Highlights include city tour of Zagreb and Sarajevo with a tour of the Republic of Montenegro and beautiful Bay of Kotor, the longest and deepest fjord in Southern Europe. You will also enjoy a full day in Plitvice National Park with a walking tour around several of the lower lakes. Additional highlights include a visit to the beautiful bay of Kvarner and its popular resort, Opatija. Includes Zagreb, Sarajevo, Dubrovnik, Split, Plitvice Lakes, Ljubljana, and Venice. Priced from $2899 land only, based on double occupancy.

Additional New Itineraries:

The Best of Russia, Baltic States and Warsaw – 14,16 or 18 days

Dalmatian Sunshine, Dubrovnik to Zagreb – 10 days

Imperial Cities Showcase, Vienna to Warsaw – 10 days

From Bohemia to Transylvania, Prague to Bucharest – 14 days

The Best of Ukraine, Poland and Hungary – 12 days

Belgrade to Zagreb – 12 days

Glimpse of Italy – 9 or 12 Days

To view or order the Europe 2012 Brochure and to take advantage of current specials, please contact Brendan Vacations at 1 (800) 421-8446 or www.BrendanVacations.com .

About Brendan Vacations

Brendan Vacations , the Ireland Specialist, is a leading US tour operator offering a wide selection of Guided, Customized, Locally Hosted and Group travel options. Established in 1969, and true to its Irish roots and traditions, the company’s portfolio now includes over 800 packages and 10,000 hotels in Ireland, the UK, Europe, Egypt, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, Mexico, South and Central America. With high quality products, friendly service and competitive pricing, Brendan Vacations believes in “Taking You Personally” and offers memorable experiences for every client. Headquartered in Los Angeles, Brendan Vacations is a respected brand of The Travel Corporation and employs over 100 travel professionals. A satellite office in Ireland contracts product and manages inbound traffic for cruise lines, incentive houses, meeting planners and tour operators. Brendan Vacations is a founding member of USTOA and other professional affiliations include ASTA, PATA, OSSN and NTA. CST#2084503-20

Terms & Conditions
*Savings of $1,000 per couple ($500 per person) based on 2012 air-inclusive Europe Guided Vacations of 12 days or more (code: BVAIREURO5). Savings of $800 per couple ($400 per person) based on 2012 air-inclusive Europe Guided Vacations of 11 days or less (code: BVAIREURO4). Savings of $700 per couple ($350 per person) based on 2012 land only Europe Guided Vacations of 12 days or more (code: BVEURLD350). Savings of $500 per couple ($250 per person) based on 2012 land only Europe Guided Vacations of 11 days or less (code: BVEURLD250). Number of nights based on tour length and pre/post-nights or extensions do not apply. Offers valid on new bookings only. All packages must be booked and paid in full with Brendan Vacations between 9/14/11 – 12/1/11 . Travel must depart between 04/1/12 and 10/31/12. Offers are combinable with brochure discounts (except Early Payment Discount) and Show Coupons. Offers not combinable with other promotional offers and Last Minute Deals and Welcome Back Special. Not applicable to tours from Brendan Vacations ‘Europe Preview’ and ‘EUROPE: November 2011-April 2012’ brochure. Offers are not valid on City Breaks, Train Tours, Eastern Mediterranean itineraries, Egypt, Greece, Turkey, Morocco, Jordan, Israel, and any tours with cruise inclusions or Select Choices or any tour or destination not allowed under the current EPD terms and conditions. Airfare quoted will include all fuel surcharges and carrier-imposed fees, $3-$18 PFCs, but does not include up to $10 in September 11th Security fee and air taxes up to $300 per person. We recommend you consult your air carrier as size, weight and baggage limitations and charges vary from airline to airline. 0% commission paid on the air portion. Offers are valid for groups based on availability and names/full payment by 12/1/11. Air tickets are non-refundable. Subject to availability and other restrictions. Please mention promo code when booking. For full terms and conditions, visit www.BrendanVacations.com/airfarerules

This holiday season, Elegant Hotels is offering guests an opportunity to enjoy one-of-a-kind experiences and holiday magic across their properties. For those considering a trip to warmer climates for the holidays, Barbados is the perfect destination and Elegant Hotels will provide a collection of activities across their five properties, designed to make any holiday sparkle even more.

Located on Barbados’ West Coast, Colony Club has a whole festive program planned with a range of activities from yoga on the beach and a complimentary tennis clinic, to the Christmas-themed lobster and jazz evening and kids’ Christmas party with Santa. Guests can enjoy Christmas Evening “under the stars” on the Sunset Deck which will be transformed into a magical arena for a gala Christmas dinner, with the St. Peter’s Anglican Church Choir on hand to perform traditional Christmas carols. During the holiday season, the hotel is offering rates of $554 per person for bookings made by Dec. 1, 2011 for travel from Dec. 19, 2011 through Jan. 7, 2012. Rates are based on double occupancy, a 7-night minimum stay and are inclusive of breakfast and taxes.

Refurbished in 2010, Tamarind has been reinvented with a crisp, upbeat style. Stylish dining and outdoor lounge areas, teens’ and children’s programs, and a spa are among many additions that make this a fantastic location for a holiday break. During the holidays, guests will take pleasure in the many events on offer such as cooking classes, food & wine pairing dinner, vodka and Sambuca tasting and even the “King of the Grill” barbecue competition. The kids will have special activities just for them to enjoy, such as a tree lighting ceremony, sandcastle competition and a special Christmas party buffet. The hotel is offering rates of $417 per person for bookings made by Dec. 1, 2011, for travel from Dec. 19, 2011 through Jan. 7, 2012. Rates are based on double occupancy, a 7-night minimum stay and are inclusive of breakfast and taxes.

The adults-only property, The House, combines the intimacy of a bed and breakfast with the sleek style of a chic, boutique hotel. With complimentary treats for customers, including champagne breakfast, afternoon tea and evening canapés, this romantic property makes for the perfect grown-up holiday. Throughout the holidays, guests can indulge in extensive cuisine such as Fisherman’s night, includes a buffet of sumptuous seafood and barbecue dishes. On Christmas Day, guests will enjoy eggnog served beachside and a special Daphne’s Christmas dinner menu accompanied by traditional Christmas carollers. Other activities include cooking demos with Daphne’s Executive Chef Marco Festini. The hotel is offering a special rate of $485 per person, for bookings made by Dec. 1, 2011 for travel from Dec. 19, 2011 through Jan. 7, 2012. Rates are based on double occupancy, a 7-night minimum stay and are inclusive of breakfast and taxes.

The Elegant Hotels’ all inclusive properties also make for a festive family trip. Both Crystal Cove and Turtle Beach are offering discounted rates during the holidays, with a range of activities included to keep families occupied. Crystal Cove will celebrate the holiday season themed “Caribbean Cohobblopot” and will include kids programs, movies under the stars, beach Olympics and karaoke. Crystal Cove is offering 25 percent savings with rates starting from $380 per person for bookings made by Dec. 1, 2011 for travel from Dec. 19, 2011 through Jan. 7, 2012. Rates are based on double occupancy, 7-night minimum stay and are inclusive of all meals and taxes. Turtle Beach will also be a lively location over the holiday season, hosting beach volleyball, a mixology demo, treasure hunt, beach Olympics and dedicated kids’ activities. Turtle Beach is offering 30 percent savings with rates starting from $343 per person for bookings made by Dec. 1, 2011 for travel from Dec. 19 through Jan. 7, 2012. Rates are based on double occupancy, 4-night minimum stay and are inclusive of all meals and taxes.

For more information on any of the Elegant Hotels properties or to book, visit www.eleganthotels.com  or call (888) 996-9948.

ABOUT ELEGANT HOTELS GROUP
Elegant Hotels Group owns and operates five of the finest hotels and resorts on the Caribbean Island of Barbados. Set on the most desirable of the island’s legendary beaches on the west and south coasts, each hotel features unique attributes and a distinctive personality. Together, they offer styles to suit every taste, from classic to contemporary, family-friendly to adults-only and traditional to all-inclusive. The hotels share a commitment to superb service and fine culinary experiences, and provide the ultimate beach and water sports environment for their guests, including the Elegant “Beach Ambassadors” program. They offer upscale accommodations that remain welcoming and unpretentious, or “elegance with a twist,” – a casual elegance that embodies the best of Barbados. Elegant Hotels include The House, Colony Club Hotel and Tamarind, as well as the all-inclusive Crystal Cove Hotel and Turtle Beach Resort. The group also includes the acclaimed Daphne’s restaurant on Barbados’ west coast – sister to Daphne’s restaurant in London.