大包尼罗巡航选择
2008年10月8日在8:01上午 | 在 冒险旅行, 非洲, 阿尔及利亚, 巴林, 巡航小船, 迪拜, 埃及, 伊朗, 伊拉克, 以色列, 乔丹, 科威特, 黎巴嫩, 利比亚, 伦敦, 中东, 莫桑比克, 阿曼, 巴基斯坦, 巴勒斯坦, 卡塔尔, Saudia阿拉伯半岛, 苏格兰, 沙扎, 叙利亚, 突尼斯, 土耳其, 英国, 威尔士, 也门 | 评论Bales continues to be one of the few UK tour operators to offer the dahabiyya Nile cruise experience. The company is adding a fourth vessel for 2009/10, as the Musk joins the Nesma, the Zahra and the Amber. The dahabiyyas (19th century style wooden crafted river sailing vessels) revive the elegant days when aristocrats and sophisticated travellers cruised the Nile. All vessels are fitted out in colonial style with oriental and Egyptian touches and each of the six cabins has its own individual decoration. The dahabiyyas are now available on a choice of two itineraries – the original 12 day ‘Nostalgic Nile’ holiday (from £1,595 per person), and a shorter 8 day cruise only holiday (from £1,345 per person). The former includes three days in Cairo staying at the Mena House Oberoi Hotel, before embarking at Luxor or Aswan for a leisurely seven day cruise. The vessel stops at private moorings, away from the larger towns, as well as calling in at little visited Nile islands.
Other outstanding cruise options on offer include a 4 night cruise on the Oberoi Philae, which is perfect for those with limited time, a new cruise aboard the luxurious Movenpick Royal Lily and an itinerary that includes time aboard the luxurious Sonesta St. George I cruise ship.
The new 8 day ‘Egyptian Encounters’ (from £1,325 per person) itinerary combines a cruise on the Sonesta St. George I cruise ship with the opulent comforts of the Four Seasons Hotel Cairo. The Sonesta is one of the Nile’s newest boats and this exquisite vessel offers just 49 cabins and 10 suites, as well as the finest in interiors and amenities. The holiday starts with 3 nights in Cairo before you head off for 4 nights cruising along the river.
VILLA BELLE EPOQUE OPENS IN CAIRO
Bales is among the first UK operators to offer the Villa Belle Epoque as part of its tailor made options. Set to be Cairo’s first truly boutique hotel, the Villa Belle Epoque is due to open in early 2009. This 1920’s house is located in the Maadi suburb, set among a garden of date palms and fruit trees, and has been tastefully converted into a 13 bedroom hotel. Relax by the inviting swimming pool, sip a cool drink on your private balcony and soak up the ambience. This is the perfect place to stay for a few days before heading off for a dahabiyya cruise along the Nile.
TREKKING IN JORDAN
Jordan is an incredibly diverse country and Bales is now offering 5 different itineraries that explore its unrivalled splendour – including a number of trekking options. The 8 day ‘Active Jordan’ trip (from £1,795 per person) includes two treks, as well as several guided walking tours. Explore the vibrant capital of Amman on foot, take in Dana Nature reserve on a 15km hike through some of the most beautiful and spectacular scenery in Jordan, and follow a 10km ancient trail traversing the rocky ledges of the Sharah Mountains, to the site of Petra’s spectacular monastery.
Bales’ tailor made options in the country, include the chance to experience truly unique accommodation in the beautiful lunar landscape of the Wadi Rum region - in the form of Desert Camp Wadi Rum. This private camp affords a nomadic experience camping in dome style tents (or out under the stars if you would prefer), with a communal Bedouin tent for dining and entertainment, and delicious, traditional food cooked over hot coals. This really is Jordan with a difference and prices start from £195 per night based on 2 passengers travelling.
BOUTIQUE LIBYA
Bales’ 8 day ‘Images of Libya’ itinerary (from £1,495 per person) now includes time at the brand new El-Khan hotel in Tripoli. The hotel, which is due to open at the end of 2008, aims to be Tripoli’s first boutique hotel. Bales Worldwide is one of very few UK operators who will be offering this stylish, characterful retreat. The Images of Libya holiday kicks off with a night at the El-Khan and the opportunity to enjoy an evening meal with a local family in Tripoli, before you head off to explore the endless vistas of the Sahara and the spectacular ruins of the ancient ‘Pentapolis’ cities. Day 6 sees you return to El-Khan for 2 nights, with sightseeing at the National Museum, time to explore the old souk and a day at the utterly breathtaking, UNESCO Heritage site of Leptis Magna.
For a copy of the new brochure or for reservations please call 0845 057 0600
or look online at www.balesworldwide.com
Timeshares are Obsolete
October 8, 2008 on 7:45 am | In Adventure Travel, Africa, Asia, Australia, Beachbooker, Cabinweb, California, Canada, Caribbean, Central America, Chicago, East Coast, Europe, Florida, Gaming Resorts, Golf Resorts, Hawaiian Islands, Hotels, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Mexico, Middle East, New South Wales, Pacific Islands, Relais Chateaux, San Diego, San Francisco, South America, Spa Resorts, Sydney, USA | Comments Off
Timeshares were looked upon as a beacon of hope with their promise of a cost-effective solution for vacations, but now upon close examination, timeshares are a poor choice and with the new kid on the block, timeshares could become obsolete.
See What Is Replacing Timeshares
During economic trouble, most people look to save money in any way they can. Vacations are usually the first to be eliminated with the biggest expense on an average trip other than airfare that of accommodations. In the past, some have chosen to save on vacations by purchasing a timeshare. Timeshares were looked upon as a beacon of hope with their promise of a cost-effective solution, but now upon close examination, timeshares are a poor choice because they are priced out of reach for many people with the maintenance fees and other fees associated with ownership and the inflexibility of not being able to travel to different locations because they were not available.
Studies are now showing that not taking a vacation, “vacation deprivation” can negatively effect your health. A study from the State University of New York at Oswego surveyed more than 12,000 men ages 35 to 57. The results suggest that men who take vacations every year reduce their overall risk of death by about 20 percent, and their risk of death from heart disease by as much as 30 percent, while those who did not suffered the highest overall death rate and highest incidence of heart disease of any of the participants. A similar study discovered that women who vacation at least twice a year have 50% less chance of developing coronary heart disease or any other serious heart problems.
Some employees have stated that they have a difficult time obtaining a vacation leave from their boss, but a recent study showed that employers have come to recognize that for every dollar of vacation benefits they provide their employees, they receive a $3 return on the benefit investment in the form of improved employee productivity and morale.
A new solution has emerged and sources have said this is the best kept secret in the travel industry. It has been said that when more find out about the information you will read here that timeshares will be obsolete. Chuck Tomlin, one of the founders of Global Resorts Network and his partner Al Morales negotiated an agreement with one of the most prestigious private travel clubs to allow Global Resorts Network to market their membership over the internet. With the Global Resorts Network membership, it is possible to stay in any of over 5,000 worldwide luxury resorts for as low as $298 for the entire week. Now you have an affordable option, where the savings from your first vacation can potentially pay for the membership that you can use for a lifetime. Global Resorts Network has been applauded by its members as the ticket to luxurious vacation and travel experiences.
One prior timeshare owner commented on the differences between the membership and a timeshare from the one low cost to join with the membership to not having to pay annual dues, maintenance fees or any other hidden fees with timeshares. As he stated, it’s difficult and costly to exchange timeshares and there is a depreciation on investment for a timeshare and you have to share in remodeling or renovation costs. With your Global Resorts Network membership, you have access to over 5,000 resorts to choose from, you don’t have to worry about upkeep costs, you can travel where you want; when you want and the membership has retained full value for the last 21 years.
With this membership, you can save money on the resorts and have money left over to do the things you want to do. You have access anytime to top resort destinations; including highly sought after timeshare resort properties, world famous Sheraton Resort properties, Marriott Resort Properties, and many other luxury resort destinations.
One of the best member benefits as stated by one of our recent members, Diane, is that in addition to no annual dues or exchange fees, there are no restricted weeks, and no blackout dates giving you year-round access to the world’s top resorts in peak season, completely eliminating any need for a timeshare purchase, whether you want to go to Hawaii or Cabo in peak season, Colorado in ski season, Arizona in golf season, or take a Disney Cruise in any season.
The “hot weeks” are one of the highlights of the membership where you only pay $298 for an entire 8 days and 7 nights for a family of 6. You also have access to other resorts where others are paying thousands or they can’t even get in, and you only pay up to $799.00 for the entire week. The ability to book a vacation whenever you want, as far out as 12 months and as little as 72 hours notice gives you the flexibility in planning your vacation and taking advantage of some unexpected time that opens up in a busy lifestyle. For those who have more time on their hands, with the Platinum membership, you can travel 52 weeks of the year. One member, Vicky, who use to sell timeshares and now has this membership commented on the unlimited guest certificates. It’s unusual for a membership to allow others to take advantage of the discounts without also purchasing the membership.
As a discriminating traveler, the average Platinum Membership saves you between $1,000 - $2,000 for the resort stay alone. Another added benefit with the membership besides saving money with your accommodations, is that these memberships save money in all aspects of your vacation travel, from airline travel to cruises, from car rental to excursion packages. With the savings you can realize with this lifetime membership, it’s been stated that the membership will pay for itself in only one or two vacations.
Perhaps one of the best benefits is not having to attend a presentation to find out more. Go to www.BestTimeShareSolution.com. You can find all information online within the comfort of your own home, even viewing the online inventory of luxury resorts, without some sales person trying to pressure you into making a decision.
Given the Global Resorts Network membership price is much less than the cost of an average timeshare, and the disadvantages of timeshare maintenance and upgrade fees have been eliminated, it’s becoming clear that if given a choice, the Global Resorts Network membership far outweighs purchasing a timeshare which leads to the conclusion as more find out about this luxury travel membership, that timeshares will become obsolete.
About Limitless Resorts, LLC
Limitless Resorts, LLC believes in wallet friendly vacations where you can travel in style for pennies on the dollar.
For further information, please contact us at 888-388-4343
Sharm El Sheikh Hits The Spot
October 8, 2008 on 7:04 am | In Adventure Travel, Africa, Bahrain, Beachbooker, Djibouti, Dubai, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, London, Middle East, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Sailing, Saudia Arabia, Scuba Diving, Sharjah, Syria, United Kingdom, Yemen | Comments Off
As travel providers feed the demand for flights to Egypt, Rotana provides the answer to the accommodation question
With reports that Freedom Flights has seen an unprecedented demand for flights to Sharm El Sheikh in September and October 2008, Rotana is happy to provide the perfect accommodation for an escape to the sunshine of Egypt.
As travel agents demand more and more flights to the Red Sea resort, the common reason seems to be that Brits are craving blue skies and the shimmering sun after one of the worst UK summers on record.
Rotana, the leading hotel management company in the Middle East, has a selection of resorts in Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada. Dotted along some of the region’s finest beaches, these properties offer the ideal surroundings for leisure travellers across four properties. Rotana has combined traditional Arabic culture and hospitality with international service standards and facilities.
From the monumental Pyramids to the powerful River Nile, the mineral-rich mountains, the bustling cities and the aquatic life of the Red Sea, Egypt will entice every traveller. Sharm El Sheikh is Egypt’s ‘Riviera’, renowned for white-sand beaches, endless desert landscapes and crystal clear blue waters.
Coral Beach Rotana Resort – Tiran
Situated on Shark’s Bay, the hotel is within easy reach of the shopping centre of Na’ama Bay. The hotel blends traditional Arabian hospitality with international standards and the luxury of a leading resort.
The hotel, which is suitable for couples and families, features 367 rooms and suites all with sea or garden views. There are six food & beverage outlets including ‘Shark’s Bay Seafood Restaurant’, ‘Mermaid’ international buffet and ‘Café Al Zaeem’, renowned for traditional Middle Eastern cuisine.
The expansive leisure facilities include two tennis courts, Bodylines fitness facility, a private beach with diving facilities and three terraced swimming pools surrounded by waterfalls and whirlpools.
Grand Rotana Resort & Spa
Rotana’s newest resort in Sharm el Sheikh, this beautiful five-star hotel is set in tropical gardens amid 2,000 palm trees and offers a 450-metre private beach. The Grand Rotana Resort & Spa is situated just five miles from the airport and close to the Na’ama Bay commercial and shopping area as well as within easy reach of tourist attractions.
The resort offers colourful rooms and suites, in addition to nine luxurious villas, all with stunning views of the Red Sea. It has a wide range of food & drink outlets including the signature restaurant ‘Silk Road’ offering three theatre kitchens featuring cuisines from China and Thailand, via India and Arabia and to Western Europe. There’s something for every palate from Middle-Eastern cuisine to Italian dishes.
Leisure facilities include a Bodylines fitness centre, games room, children’s pool and children’s club plus Zen the spa at Rotana. The spa features ten beautifully designed treatment rooms and relaxation areas enticing guests to sample the many face and body therapies available.
Rotana has two other properties in Egypt; the Coral Beach Rotana Resort – Montazah in Sharm El Sheikh and the Coral Beach Rotana Resort – Hurghada in the Red Sea resort of Hurghada.
For further information on Rotana, please go to www.rotana.com
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC FOODS OF THE WORLD
October 8, 2008 on 7:00 am | In Africa, Asia, Australia, Canada, Caribbean, Central America, Dine Drink, Europe, France, Italy, Las Vegas, London, Los Angeles, Mexico, Middle East, New South Wales, Pacific Islands, Paris, Rome, South America, Sydney, USA | Comments Off
Dedicated to Sharing and Savoring Culture from Around the Globe
WASHINGTON - National Geographic has launched Foods of the World, a new culinary destination where consumers can experience and share the world’s food and cultures online at www.NatGeoFood.com.
Offering a diverse assortment of competitively priced artisan and specialty items from more than 30 countries, Foods of the World is designed as a shopping resource for consumers interested in receiving fresh, high-quality foods from around the world.
While online, consumers can share recipes from their own travels or culture, participate in community discussions and delve deeper into the origin of the site’s food offerings by accessing maps and feature stories about their region of choice from the National Geographic archives.
As the site evolves, consumers will also be able to post photos and videos of their own travels and favorite real-world culinary destinations.
“Food has the ability to transport one to a specific culture and place. National Geographic has chosen food to further enhance connections between destination and culture,†said John Dumbacher, senior vice president for National Geographic Licensing.
“In choosing to work with small purveyors, we are providing the most direct link possible between consumer and producer. This ensures that consumers receive fresher, higher-quality products in a way that also benefits the people of the community that crafted the food.â€
National Geographic has built its reputation on sharing knowledge about the world and its people traditionally through its films, magazines, digital content and mission programs. The Foods of the World program is National Geographic’s newest means of engaging and educating people about global cultures.
Consumers can select from a variety of gift baskets, samplers and assortments according to country of origin and food type. Food categories include cheeses, chocolates and desserts, coffees and teas, dry goods, cured meats and seafood, oils and vinegars, and sauces and spreads.
In addition to these selections, Foods of the World also offers several Food Club options, containing monthly gift shipments with foods from around the globe (three-, six- and 12-month “tasting tours†are currently available).
One can choose from such selections as Cheeses for Wine Tastings, Chocolates and Cookies, Oils and Vinegars, and Cheeses from Around the World, or indulge in the World Explorer, a one-of-a-kind cultural experience that lasts a full year.Those seeking an immersive cultural travel experience beyond the digital world can try a Culinary Adventure through National Geographic Expeditions, National Geographic’s popular travel program. Culinary Expeditions offer the chance for consumers to become travelers, taking part in the rich cuisines of the world, immersed in their cultural context.
In the company of a National Geographic expert, consumers can delve into culinary traditions and the unique local produce, while meeting leading chefs in fascinating places around the world. National Geographic’s Expedition to Southwest France connects travelers with author Raphael Kadushin, who takes them on an exploration of the cuisine of the Perigord region. While there, they settle into a historic castle and spend seven days meeting truffle hunters and renowned chefs, visiting artisanal cheese and foie gras producers, and strolling through markets and family farms.
They can also try their hand at cooking local dishes and soak up the rhythms and flavors of everyday life.Foods of the World seeks out natural foods that are minimally processed and offers a range of vegan, kosher, organic and fair trade options. The program supports the “slow food†movement, which subscribes to the belief that food should be produced in a clean way with minimal impact on the environment, animals and human health, and that employees involved in the growth and production of food should be fairly compensated for their work. National Geographic embraces environmental stewardship and seeks to inspire people to care about the planet.
Each of the culinary items available through Foods of the World has been carefully selected for quality and freshness. Every item sold through Foods of the World is carefully evaluated and kitchen- tested. All products are 100 percent guaranteed. National Geographic’s net proceeds support vital exploration, conservation, research and education programs.
HYATT HOTELS FASTER FREE NIGHTS
October 8, 2008 on 6:55 am | In Africa, Asia, Australia, Beachbooker, Cabinweb, Canada, Caribbean, Central America, Chicago, East Coast, Europe, Florida, Gaming Resorts, Golf Resorts, Great Lakes, Hawaiian Islands, Hotels, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Mexico, Miami, Middle East, Midwest, New England, New York City, Orlando, Pacific Islands, Pacific Northwest, Plains States, Rockies, San Diego, San Francisco, Skiing Snowboarding, South America, Southwest, Spa Resorts, Spring Break, Surfing Resorts, Sydney, Texas, The Keys, The South, Toronto, USA | Comments Off
Gold Passport members can enjoy unlimited free nights worldwide, plus additional bonus points with MasterCard® -
Hyatt Hotels & Resorts is making it easy to turn business travel into “free time†during its Faster Free Nights promotion. Hyatt Gold Passport members earn a free night after every two eligible stays at any one of more than 365 Hyatt hotels worldwide between now and December 30, 2008.
There is no limit to the number of free nights members earn by participating in Faster Free Nights, and the free nights can be redeemed at Hyatt hotels in 45 countries. “Faster Free Nights is one of the most rewarding programs of its kind, and we are pleased to make it easy for members to get away for a romantic weekend or a family vacation at great Hyatt properties in outstanding destinations,†said Jeff Zidell, Vice President of Hyatt Gold Passport. As an added bonus, members paying with a MasterCard® also earn 2,000 bonus points after every two eligible stays.
“Hyatt is committed to providing the best value to Gold Passport members, and Faster Free Nights has always been very popular, because it provides opportunities for members to experience Hyatt worldwide.†said Zidell. “We are also pleased to further our partnership with MasterCard® by rewarding customers with Hyatt Gold Passport bonus points, in addition to free nights, creating more ways for members to enjoy their travel.â€
“MasterCard is once again offering a great value to its traveling cardholders through the support of the Hyatt Gold Passport Faster Free Nights promotion,†said Xavier James, Senior Business Leader, U.S. Commerce Development, MasterCard Worldwide.
“Whether traveling for business or pleasure, MasterCard cardholders can quickly accumulate free nights and Hyatt Gold Passport bonus points that can be redeemed to spend time with the people in their lives that matter most.â€
To register for Faster Free Nights visit goldpassport.com. New members who join Hyatt Gold Passport during the promotion will automatically become registered.
All free night awards must be redeemed between September 15 and February 28, 2009 by visiting goldpassport.com or by calling Hyatt reservations at 1 (888) 591-1234 and mentioning offer code FFN08. Participating Hyatt brands include Park Hyatt, Andaz, Grand Hyatt, Hyatt Regency, Hyatt Place and Hyatt Summerfield Suites.
A qualifying stay means one or more consecutive nights at a participating hotel or resort when paying an eligible rate;
award stays do not qualify. Promotion is subject to full terms and conditions of Faster Free Nights and Gold Passport, available
Global Hyatt Corporation, headquartered in Chicago, is one of the world’s premier hotel companies. The hotels owned, operated, managed or franchised by its subsidiaries provide authentic hospitality to guests in 45 countries through a passionate commitment to personalized service, cultural relevance, and the environment. Global Hyatt subsidiaries own, operate, manage or franchise more than 365 hotels and resorts worldwide under the Hyatt, Hyatt Regency, Hyatt Resorts, Grand Hyatt, Park Hyatt, Hyatt Place, Hyatt Summerfield Suites and Andaz brands with additional properties under development on five continents. Global Hyatt Corporation is also the owner of Hyatt Vacation Ownership, Inc., operator of Hyatt Vacation Club. The success of Global Hyatt is driven by the commitment and energy of the approximately 90,000 men and women around the world who provide exceptional service to hotel guests.
New Zealand Dollar still offers value for Kiwis
October 7, 2008 on 6:00 pm | In Australia, India, Korea, Namibia, New South Wales, New Zealand, Pacific Islands, South Africa, Sydney, Thailand | Comments Off
While Kiwi travellers might be forgiven for feeling slightly daunted by the weakening New Zealand Dollar, Korea, India and Thailand are among a handful of countries whose currencies offer even better value against the New Zealand Dollar than a year ago.
Expedia.co.nz™, subsidiary of Expedia, Inc., the world’s leading online travel company, in conjunction with foreign exchange specialist HiFX, has highlighted the destinations where the New Zealand Dollar (NZD) offers the best value compared to 12 months ago.
The Expedia Foreign Exchange Indexâ„¢ shows that the New Zealand Dollar is now 11 per cent stronger against the South Korean Won, almost 9 per cent stronger against the Indian Rupee, more than 6 per cent stronger against the Thailand Baht, 5 per cent stronger against the British Pound and just over 3 per cent stronger against the South African Rand.
Arthur Hoffman, Managing Director Expedia Asia Pacific, says: “It is extremely encouraging to see that there are still great international travel destinations which offer good value for Kiwi travellers.â€
“The good news is that three of the five countries now cheaper for Kiwi travellers are located in Asia, only a few hours’ travel time from New Zealand. While Thailand and India are already popular travel destinations for New Zealanders, there is now a great opportunity for Kiwis to discover Korea, a relatively unknown destination.â€
“What is pleasantly surprising also is that Britain, a destination usually considered expensive for New Zealanders, is now more affordable thanks to favourable inter-currency movements recently. In fact, the UK was the third most popular international travel destination amongst Expedia.co.nz customers in the past year.â€
Further afield, South Africa and Namibia, neighbouring countries in Southern Africa, also offer good value right now.
“With a selection of some great travel destinations at even better value for the Kiwi Dollar than last year, and with the internet making it easier and quicker than ever to book a holiday or short break, it is still a good time for New Zealanders to travel abroad,†Hoffman concluded.
best value New Zealand Dollar destinations:
(1) South Korea
Currency: South Korean Won (KRW)
South Korea is a country of juxtaposition, with massive modern cities and breathtaking countryside. Korea’s capital, Seoul, is the second largest metropolitan city in the world while mountains cover around 70% of Korea’s land mass, making it one of the most mountainous counties in the world.
Get in touch with your spiritual side at a luxury mountain spa retreat that won’t stretch the piggy bank, or head off on a wilderness trek to some of the world’s largest temples. Enjoy some Korean opera in Jeollanam-do or explore the national parks along the magnificent southern coast. In the summer, Gangwon-do boasts fine tropical beaches, while in winter the region boasts some of the finest skiing spots on the mountain slopes.
Be sure you don’t miss the central province with its spectacular lakes surrounded by breathtaking forests and sky-reaching mountains. Take some time in a local Korean Folk village to learn the art of ceramics and experience the hospitality of the Koreans. More information: www.visitkorea.or.kr
(2) India
Currency: Indian Rupee (INR)
Colour is the drug of India that has become an addiction for many travellers in this vast and diverse country. Your senses are tantalised by the sights, sounds and flavours of India, from the mountainous Himalayas to the southern beaches and vibrant hustle and bustle of the cities.
Nothing in India is predictable; prepare for a country that is developing at a record speed and brace yourself for experiences that you’ll have to see to believe. Whether you’re after a rugged wilderness retreat, a fast paced city, or a spiritual awakening, India has it all.
More information: www.incredibleindia.org
(3) Thailand
Currency: Thai Baht (BHT)
Thailand attracts more tourists each year than any other country in Southeast Asia, which is no surprise given its combination of delicious cuisine, friendly hospitality, spirituality, tropical beaches and adventure activities, all available on a shoestring budget.
If you’re keen for some tropical relaxation, head south to the popular Phuket which boasts all levels of accommodation or jump over to the small island of Koh Samui with its renowned party atmosphere. Alternatively head north to Chiang Mai for some fast paced adventure activities from elephant rides, tiger encounters, mountain trekking and waterfall rafting.
More information: www.tourismthailand.org
(4) United Kingdom
Currency: British Pound (GBP)
For travel-savvy New Zealanders, the UK certainly needs no introduction. While the capital London is great any time of the year, your best chance of good weather for travelling around the country is at the height of summer (July and August), and it’s also the time who you can expect the highest prices. However, perhaps the New Zealand dollar’s 5.4% strengthening against the Pound in the last year might help take the sting out of an otherwise expensive holiday destination.
More information: www.visitbritain.co.nz
(5) South Africa & Namibia
Currency: South African Rand (ZAR)
As Africa’s most diverse and tourist friendly travel destination, South Africa offers the visitor literally a world in one country. South Africa is a world class destination with an excellent road infrastructure, vibrant cities and culturally rich ‘townships’ mixed with superb beaches, breathtaking mountain ranges, forests, desserts and of course some of the world’s finest game reserves.
The South African Rand is also legal tender in neighbouring Namibia and with an average of 300 days per year of sunshine and an easy hop from South Africa, it’s easy to see why tourists love Namibia. This country has rich natural landscapes, including the massive dunes of the Namib Desert, modern infrastructure and diverse culture with many eco-tourism opportunities also available.
More information: www.southafrica.net  / www.namibiatourism.com.na
Typically you get more for your Dollar if you buy the local currency once you have arrived at your destination
Don’t exchange your money for the local currency at the first available exchange as you arrive at the destination - shop around to get the best rate
Make the most of local cuisine as it will be better value and more likely to be better quality than Western style food
Take advantage of what the destination has to offer e.g.:
• India – fantastic variety of silks
• Thailand – made to measure tailoring
• South Africa – luxury resorts and Safari lodges
Book your accommodation and local activities in advance to benefit from the current favourable exchange rates, which can fluctuate unexpectedly
Doors Open For Fairmont Zanzibar
October 7, 2008 on 8:03 am | In Africa, Beachbooker, Kenya, Tanzania, Zanzibar | Comments Off
Fairmont Hotels & Resorts announces the opening of Fairmont Zanzibar, located off the coast of Tanzania, in the Indian Ocean. Fringed by uninterrupted miles of powder-white sandy beaches, the resort’s 109 rooms and suites are sprinkled throughout the property’s vast and lush tropical gardens.
Zanzibar’s unspoilt beauty and rich offerings ensure travelers enjoy a unique and enriching experience. One of Fairmont Zanzibar’s main attractions is its unsurpassed water sports facilities, providing windsurfing, boating, fishing charters, as well as a fully equipped dive center with a decompression chamber, one of only three in Africa.
Other amenities include two swimming pools, fitness and spa facilities and several restaurants and bars overlooking the Indian Ocean. Guests can also enjoy additional activities such as volleyball, mini golf, table tennis, darts and pool. In addition to leisure offerings, Fairmont Zanzibar offers a full range of business amenities including wireless Internet, business center, and meeting and banquet facilities.
Visitors wishing to experience the Island’s rich and colorful history can explore Stone Town, the cultural heart of Zanzibar and a UNESCO World Heritage site or tour a one of the many spice plantations or the Maruhubi Palace ruins.
Fairmont Zanzibar joins three Kenyan properties which were recently added to Fairmont’s East Africa collection: Fairmont Mara Safari Club, Fairmont The Norfolk and Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club, complimenting the company’s African Safari offerings with a beach experience.
Project partners include IFA Hotels & Resorts (IFA HR) and Kingdom Hotel Investments (KHI). IFA HR is in the forefront of companies engaged in the development of tourism projects, hotels and resorts in Europe, the Middle East and Africa and is currently partnering with Fairmont on a number of properties including several on the iconic Palm Jumeirah island in Dubai; Fairmont Zimbali on the north coast of Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa; and the three hotels in Kenya recently added to the Fairmont collection.
World cruise offers 300 tours
October 6, 2008 on 10:30 am | In Africa, Alaska, Asia, Australia, California, Canada, Caribbean, Central America, Cruise Boats, Europe, Los Angeles, Mexico, Middle East, New South Wales, Pacific Islands, San Diego, San Francisco, South America, Sydney, USA, United Kingdom | Comments Off
Anyone looking at Crystal Cruises’ 106-day world cruise might want to know they have released more than 300 tours, including some new ones never presented before.
The tours range in price from $39 to $6,999.
They include hiking, biking, kayaking, zip lines and more.
“Sailing roundtrip from Los Angeles January 21, 2009, the 106-day expedition boasts more than 300 tours in all, including 125 brand new, which are designed to sate guests’ appetites for vigorous activity, as well as peak their intellectual and cultural curiosities,†said the cruise line.
The tours take guests by horseback along New Zealand’s coast, by foot through the Takitumu Rainforest, by helicopter over the filming locations of Lord of the Rings, even through the Alaskan forests and glaciers by go-kart.
“The World Cruise excursions are specifically designed to enable travelers to explore, taste and feel each destination,” said John Stoll, Crystal’s director of land programs.
“World Cruise guests no longer fit the stereotype of just sitting on the deck with a book and a blanket.â€
The cruise itself costs $54,135 per person, double occupancy.
Key Tours Offers Half Off For Second Person
October 6, 2008 on 7:46 am | In Adventure Travel, Africa, Middle East, Turkey | Comments Off
Key Tours International, a tour operator for Europe and the Mediterranean region, is extending following specials with 50 percent off for the second person for Turkey until Oct. 31. The 14-day Glories of Turkey is priced from $1,095 per person land only, savings up to $620 per couple. The tour visits Istanbul, Troy, Pergamum, Ephesus, Kusadasi, Pamukkale, Antalya, Aspendos, Konya, Cappadocia and Ankara.
The price includes 13 nights accommodation at first-class or deluxe hotels, 24 meals (13 breakfasts and 11 dinners), arrival and departure transfers, extensive sightseeing with entrance fees, deluxe air-conditioned motor coach with emergency washroom on board, and a professional tour director throughout the tour.
The nine-day Highlights of Turkey is priced from only $790 per person land only, a savings of up to $460 per couple.
It’s a nine-day escorted tour of Turkey visiting Istanbul, Troy, Pergamum, Ephesus, Kusadasi, Pamukkale, Perge and Antalya.
The price includes eight nights accommodation at first-class or deluxe hotels, 14 meals (eight breakfasts and six dinners), arrival and departure transfers, sightseeing with entrance fees, deluxe air-conditioned motor coach with emergency washroom on board, and professional tour director throughout the tour.
Book and pay in full by Oct. 31 and the second person gets 50 percent off the land only price on the tour departures from November through March 2009. Key Tours destinations include Italy and Croatia; Greece and Turkey; Egypt, Israel and Jordan; Spain, Portugal and Morocco; France, The Netherlands and Belgium; United Kingdom; and Central Europe and Germany.
For more information, call 800-576-1784 or visit www.keytours.com
Tintswalo Atlantic Lodge in Cape Town
October 6, 2008 on 7:10 am | In Africa, Beachbooker, Cabinweb, Dine Drink, South Africa | Comments OffTintswalo welcomes the newest property to its collection of luxury South Africa lodges, Tintswalo Atlantic. Built at the base of Chapman’s peak in Hout Bay, Cape Town, the lodge officially opened on Sept. 26.
Tintswalo Atlantic is designed to be a serene hideaway in one of Cape Town’s most exclusive areas on the Atlantic coastline. The lodge offers views of the Sentinel Peak and proximity to the sea so that guests can feel the gentle spray and breathe fresh ocean salt. Tintswalo Atlantic consists of 10 luxury suites and one presidential suite. Each suite is themed to reflect a South African island. Narratives for Robben Island, Ithaca and Lamu are visually translated into silk and linen textures and ocean colors.
All suites are linked to the main lodge by a communal boardwalk and are built from wood and glass to ensure harmony within the surrounding fynbos (natural shrubland). The main lodge includes a plunge pool, lofty wooden ceilings, glass encased areas and supreme views.
Guests can experience tours of Cape Town countryside and Winelands, cooking lessons with the executive chef, hiking through the mountain reserve and helicopter flights over the peninsula. For relaxation afterwards, a massage therapist can be arranged for in-suite treatments. Tintswalo Atlantic is the latest addition to the Tintswalo collection of upscale properties in South Africa, joining Tintswalo Safari Lodge,
Tintswalo Manor House and Tintswalo at Waterfall. Rates start at 7,100 South African rand or $884 per room now through April 30, 2009, and include accommodations, breakfast, tea and cake, house drinks and shuttle service. In the native Shangaan language, Tintswalo means “the intangible feeling of love, gratitude and peace bestowed upon someone offering you a meaningful and worthy gift.â€
For more information, call +27 11 464 1070/1, email res@tintswalo.com  or visit www.tintswalo.com






































