Jetsettersblog

Exclusive free yoga classes for Aldemar guests in July 2012

LOOKING for a holiday that will leave you feeling calm, flexible and fit? Then take advantage of the free yoga classes that Aldemar Hotels & Spa are offering guests in July and head over to the beautiful island of Crete.

The complimentary yoga classes are aimed at all levels and will take place at the 5* Aldemar Royal Mare. There will be two 90 minute sessions per day with the morning session designed for preparing body and spirit for the day ahead and the evening session specifically focused on relaxation and stretching as guests wind down from the day’s activities.

This is the second summer season that Aldemar Hotels & Spa has offered free Yoga classes and they are a great option for both beginners and advanced Yogis. The classes are open to all Aldemar guests staying at any of their four properties in Crete, and will take place at the Royal Mare under the expert tuition of Bernadette Langer, a professional Jivamukti teacher.

The Yoga Summer programme takes place from 11 – 31 July 2011. The group sessions are free to guests however private classes are also available for those that would rather workout on their own. Prices for the private classes are €69 for a 60 minute session or €90 for a 90 minute session. Guests should bring their own yoga mats, although beginners will be able to borrow a mat if they don’t have their own.

Aldemar Hotels (www.aldemarhotels.com) offer a choice of four luxury hotels in Anissaras, on the outskirts of Hersonissos – the 5* Royal Mare, the 5* Knossos Royal, the 5* Royal Villas and the 4* all-inclusive Cretan Village. All offer excellent accommodation and facilities, as well as access to the award-winning Royal Mare Thalasso Spa (one of the top ten thalasso spas in the world), the Aldemar Tennis Club open from April until October and the brand new Aldemar Golf Academy.

Classic Collection Holidays (www.classic-collection.co.uk  0800 294 9318 ) offers 7 nights at the Aldemar Royal Mare, Crete from £914 per person. Price based on 2 adults sharing a garden view room on a half board basis and includes return flights from London Gatwick to Heraklion and private transfers. Departs 11 July. Book before 31 March 2012 to enjoy savings of up to £168 per couple per week.

Variety Cruises offer a unique small ship cruise concept on their mega yachts cruises.

Itineraries give much more time in ports of call with some overnight stays giving the opportunity to dine ashore or stay out till late in several ports of call on their Mediterranean itineraries.

These small ships are classified as Mega Yachts, carrying between 40 and 72 passengers depending on the vessel.

Their smaller size allows them to access small island harbours and off the beaten track destinations that are beyond the reach of large cruise ships.

Whilst comfort and service on board compare favorably with mainstream cruises, Variety’s mega yachts offer an informal and friendly atmosphere that is quite unique, with meals on board being more like a dinner party than a formal dinner.

Greek Island hopping / Aegean itineraries are offered on half board basis, giving the opportunity to dine ashore in harbour-side tavernas without feeling that one is missing out on a meal on board that is already paid for.

All itineraries offer a good mix of better know ports such as Santorini and Mykonos with lesser known gems such as Folegandros and Syros.

Prices on the Jewels Of The Cyclades cruise on the 25 cabin classic motor sailer Galileo start at £975 cruise only or £1295 flight inclusive for 7 nights in April and October in an entry level Cat C outside cabin.

This includes 7 night cruise from Marina Zea (Piraeus) on half board basis, and for the flight inclusive package, scheduled flights London to Athens and transfers to and from the port.

Port charges and taxes are an extra £120 pp.

Other itineraries offered by Variety Cruises with weekly departures April to October include:

Classical Greece on the Mega Yacht Harmony V, Aegean Odyssey on the Sail Cruiser Panorama, Adriatic Odyssey on the Mega Yacht Harmony G, Turquoise Coast and Eastern Aegean on the Sail Cruiser Panorama II.

New for 2012 are their West Mediterranean Cruises, ‘Romantic Riviera’ sailing from Nice and Treasures of South Italy and Malta, sailing from Salerno, Italy on the brand new 5* deluxe M/Y Variety Voyager making her debut with this cruise series in July of 2012.

For more info contact Chris Lorenzo at Variety Cruises UK GSA, Seafarer on 0208 324 3114

Award-winning luxury tour operator ITC Classics is delighted to unveil its new Ultimate brochure. It provides inspiration in the form of ITC Classics own recommendations from its vast portfolio, showcasing the ‘Best’ of many different holiday styles with something to suit all tastes.

ITC Classics teams have spent the last 38 years travelling far and wide gaining experience that will guide their clients carefully to the finest places. They strive to continually source new deals and add extras that will please client’s pockets.
Jennifer Atkinson, CEO commented, “I am delighted to be unveiling our Ultimate brochure. It is born out of our passion for travel and the notion that everyone has a different vision of what ‘ultimate’ means to them. Each designer holiday is as individual as our clients, so we have taken highlights from our portfolio showcasing many of the very best experiences available. By using a pricing structure that allows clients to choose between a splash and save options we also prove that enjoying the best doesn’t always mean spending more. ”

The Ultimate brochure is divided into eight distinct categories that highlight properties with the Best Beaches, Best Rooms where you will find properties that include the world’s only seven star hotel The Burj Al Arab, Dubai to exotic palaces in India with Taj Palaces. Other categories include Best for Families, Best Villas, Best Cities through to Best Experiences, Best on a Budget and Best Newcomers.

Sample from the Best Beaches Category

THE FAIRMONT ROYAL PAVILION
BARBADOS
This is an elegant oasis that embraces old-world colonial charm and blends it effortlessly with sophisticated, contemporary elegance and impeccable service, all set to a backdrop of one of the Caribbean’s most exceptional beachfront locations. This hotel enjoys half a mile of the best stretch of west coast beach Barbados has to offer, backed by swaying palms and facing a stunning sapphire seascape.

STEAL
Stay 7 and pay for 6 plus receive a Food & Beverage credit of US$200 per room
Prices from £1,465 per person based on 2 adults staying 7 nights, including daily breakfast, economy class flights and private transfers.
Valid for travel completed between 1 May – 31 October 2012.

SPLASH
Prices from £7,399 per person based on 2 adults sharing a Beachfront Junior Suite for 7 nights, full board, including first class flights with British Airways and limousine transfers.
Valid for travel completed between 4 – 31 January & 1 – 31 March 2012.

For more information on the ITC Classics portfolio please visit www.itcclassics.co.uk  or call 01244 355527

Samples from the Best Newcomer Category
NIYAMA, MALDIVES

Sister property to Huvafen Fushi the new Niyama by Per AQUUM due to open in January 2012 will be an edgy, modern resort that will offer guests more than a romantic Maldivian escape, balancing tranquillity with a sense of discovery, stimulation and fun.

This stunning resort situated over two idyllic islands, Embudhufushi and Olhuveli, is located in the South Western Atoll of Dhaalu, just a 40 minute seaplane flight from Male.

SPLASH
Prices from £2,225 per person based on 2 adults sharing a Beach
Studio for 7 nights, half board, including economy class flights and
private transfers.

For more information on the ITC Classics portfolio please visit www.itcclassics.co.uk  or call 01244 355527

DAIOS COVE, CRETE

Up for a short-haul splurge, Crete is the word at the Daios Cove Luxury Resort and Villas where you’ll discover a fantastic property situated in the picturesque location of Daios Cove. Take to the waters of its impressive infinity pool, or head to Ocean Bar next to the main pool to soak up the dazzling sea vistas. There is also a private sandy beach with comfortable sunbeds and a beach bar with direct access to the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea.

STEAL
30% Early Booking Discount

Prices from £565 per person based on 2 adults sharing a Deluxe
Room for 7 nights, including breakfast, economy class fights and
private transfers.

Valid for travel completed 17 April – 31 October 2012.
For more information on the ITC Classics portfolio please visit www.itcclassics.co.uk  or call 01244 355527

Sample from the Best Experiences Category

SULTANS WAY, MALDIVES
With an enticing all-inclusive package, life onboard the award-winning Sultans Way 007 is plain sailing. Impossibly luxurious, four en suite double cabins allow up to ten guests to enjoy the exceptional service of the captain and crew, plus the finest international cuisines.

The on board gadget and accessories for fun on the open seas, such as diving equipment, make it a perfect holiday, as all watersports come as part of the experience too.

The real reason to jump on board is the yachts access to the shallowest of reefs for diving, snorkelling and fishing. Relaxing is easy, it has several sun drenched decks, state-of-the-art music and entertainment systems and a sliding glass roof that assures a refreshing breeze in the heat of the day.

SPLASH
Prices from £6,949 per person based on 10 adults staying aboard The Sultan Way 007 luxury yacht for 5 nights including economy class flights.
For more information on the ITC Classics portfolio or to request an Ultimate brochure please visit www.itcclassics.co.uk  or call 01244 355527.

“Latania Studios and Apartments”, also known as Latania Crete Hotel, announces luxurious facilities for tourist who want a decent accommodation waiting for their arrival.

GREECE– “Latania Studios and Apartments”, also known as Latania Crete Hotel, announces luxurious facilities for tourist who want a decent accommodation waiting for their arrival. There are many hotels in Crete but what makes this hotel special is its way of preserving this Island’s cultures and traditions. The hotel does not have a monetary policy for everything, they strive more to conserve the living style of the place by maintaining a standard none other hotels can.

Majority of the tourist chose these apartments because of their rates which are cheap for the luxury they offer while they get to enjoy almost all the facilities of a modern hotel. They have a reception that works in the day time i.e. 9 am – 10 pm. A lobby bar that offers refreshments to let the tired travelers stretch their legs and relax. TV lounge, swimming pools, billiard tables and pool snack bars are all other enjoyable provisions. Moreover there are typical services available to serve people whenever they feel the need.

There might not be a good reason to live in some of the most expensive hotels out there but there are many solid ones to live in “Latania Studios and Apartments”. The first and foremost benefit of living at this point is that it is surrounded by various types of beaches. Those tourists, who love passing a good time with their families at the beach, can do it here perfectly. Another good reason to live in this kind of a hotel is to fathom the Cretan customs and traditions that are kept at their best here.

History and Nature lovers can also spend a lot of time roaming around the peaceful areas of Crete. Because it is surrounded by many famous mountains and museums, such people will love to spend their time here. There is a lot more to explore, such as the mountains of Dikti where an individual can find a lot of amazing herbs and gorgeous flowers. These aspects of the “Latania Resort” define that it is the ideal place for tourists who wish to find an accommodation that is near all the important attractions of Crete Island.

The particular wide area of this Island has such local spots where different feasts and events occur almost every hour while they continue till the next day. Such type of gatherings is simply what a few people want in order to learn the local culture and get to know the people. Here they can indulge with lively people, singing and dancing.

With so many nearby attractions, cost effective packages and comfy apartments who would not want to book one for their trip? “Latania Studios and Appartments” offers online reservation system which makes sure that people do not return from their reception frustrated. It is advisable to check for available bookings before a week from the visit so that there is no chance of mishaps.

“Latania Studios and Appartments” is headquartered in Crete, Greece and it provides the best accommodation with a touch of Cretan culture with the perfect blend of modern facilities.

Latania Crete Hotel offers you extraordinary Crete studios and apartments with separate bedroom and various other facilities assuring you have an incredible experience.

Daios Cove Luxury Resort and Villas is now offering two and three bedroom family villas with a private pool, so the entire family can enjoy the fabulous facilities the resort has to offer. Located on a hillside overlooking its own private beach with turquoise waters near Aghios Nikolaos, Daios Cove is a 5 star luxury resort, ideal for a family holiday.

Whether you are on holiday with a newborn or energetic youngsters, the Daios Cove family villas are equip for all parent and child needs, offering complimentary welcoming gifts for children, baby monitors, bottle warmers, stair gates, and there is a specialised kids menu to please even the pickiest of eaters. The crystal-clear waters of the private pools can be heated up to 25 degrees for the whole family to enjoy and a children’s poolside fence is provided. Cove Club services such as: daily newspaper delivery, personalised air freshener with essential oils, access to the ‘Villas section’ at the private Daios Cove beach and preferential bookings for the à la carte restaurants, spa, and daily excursions are all exclusively offered to Villa guests. Parents can relax and pamper themselves in the Spa by Germaine De Capuccini as children play in the Daios Cove Miniclub and Kids crèche. Both of which are supervised by dedicated and enthusiastic Daios Cove nannies.

The island of Crete is blessed with year-round sunshine, mild weather, and flawless beaches; making it the perfect holiday destination for families any time of year. Whether it’s the stunning landscape, delicious food at the resorts three gourmet restaurants, or the numerous activities on offer for the whole family, a trip to Daios Cove will provide happy memories for all.

Daios Cove Family 2 Bedroom Villas start at €960/villa/night on B&B basis for two adults and two children. To book or for further information please call Daios Cove Luxury Resort and Villas on (+30) 28410 62600. * To receive a 30% discount book before 28th of February 2012

Costa Navarino has recently introduced a series of philosophical walks for guests. The walks have been launched this year as part of the destination’s program of various activities taking place each season. During guided forays through the Messinian countryside, professors lead discussions on topics taken from the writings of antiquity, which explore and shed light on the broader impact of ancient Greek philosophical thought in the world.

This activity (lasting 1.5 hours and taking place during the weekends) takes its inspiration from the ancient Greek philosophers that taught everywhere, even during a leisurely walk, and offers an experience combining philosophical enquiry with the natural, untouched landscape in the mild climate of the region. Topics covered during the Philosophical Walks which are led by university professors, include works of prominent Greek philosophers such as “Socrates on Madness and Love,” “Plato on the physical universe,” “Euripides on democracy” and others. As well as the philosophical walks, guests at The Westin Resort can take advantage of numerous further sports and outdoor activities and a great range of indoor facilities. For more information, visit www.westincostanavarino.com

Flight-only operator Avro is expanding its Greek flying programme for next summer.

It has aded flights from East Midlands and Newcastle to both Heraklion in Crete and to Corfu.

Prices on the new charters lead in from £229 per person based on the East Midlands to Corfu which will operate on Mondays from 21 May to 24 September.

The East Midlands to Heraklion is priced from £249 per person and will operate each Tuesday from 12 May to 25 September.

Operating from May to November each Tuesday, the Newcastle to Heraklion starts from £259 with the Newcastle to Corfu operating each Monday from 21 May to 24 September.

“We will continue to expand our range of regional departures where we see a demand from our key retail and tour operator partners with whom we work very closely,” said Avro managing director Michael Vinales.

“We will continue to monitor sales to all destinations and respond with additional capacity where this is commercially viable to do so.”

Oceania Cruises will offer themed sailings for the first time in 2012. The Signature Sailings feature 10 voyages exploring culinary, wine, music, and health and wellness themes.

They will include seminars, hands-on classes, concerts, wine tastings and other activities. Depending on the voyage, Master Chef Jacques Pépin, up-and-coming jazz musicians, and noted editors will be special guests.

The themes cruises are the 10-day culinary-themed “Tuscan Artistry” sailing, departing May 12 from Barcelona to Rome, featuring Pépin, aboard the Marina; the 10-day jazz music-themed “Mediterranean Tapestry” cruise, departing May 14 from Athens to Barcelona, aboard the Nautica; two Oceania Club Reunion Cruise sailings, departing June 17 from Lisbon to Rome (“Iberian Odyssey” aboard the Riviera) and March 6, 2013, from Buenos Aires to Rio de Janeiro (“Radiant Rhythms” aboard the Regatta); two Vitality and Wellness cruises departing Aug. 8 (“Pearls of the Aegean” aboard the Regatta) and Oct. 24 (“Accent on Italy” aboard the Riviera); two Bon Appétit Wine & Food Festival sailings departing Oct. 14 from Athens to Rome (“Enchanted Grandeur” aboard the Riviera) and Oct. 22 from Athens to Istanbul (“Temples and Palaces” aboard the Marina); and the “President’s Cruise” with Oceania Cruises President Bruce Himelstein and his wife, Brigitte, a 10-day “Mediterranean Tapestry” voyage from Barcelona-Athens aboard the Nautica, departing Oct. 26.

For more information, call 800-531-5658 or visit www.oceaniacruises.com

Perillo Tours is adding to its offerings 10-day Western Mediterranean cruises on the MSC Splendida in its MSC Yacht Club suites.

The company offers five departures between Jan. 6 and March 2, which are scheduled to depart the U.S. late on Fridays and return on Sundays allowing guests to take only five days off for a full 10-day vacation. Pricing ranges from $2,490 to $2,890 per person, double.

Single supplements and international air flights are also available. For more information, visit www.perillotours.com/cruises/msc-yacht-club-cruise-2012/index.html.

The cruise goes from Genoa to Barcelona, Malta, Sicily, Civitavecchia (the port for Rome) and Marseille. The prices include all costs aside from gratuity for the guides and international airfare, including the seven-night cruise in a Yacht Club Suite with balcony; one-night stay in Genoa at the NH Marina Hotel; arrival and departure airport transfers in Italy; butler service; private gourmet dining; room service; access to private shipboard pool, bar and spa; private restaurants/menu selections; complimentary beverages; and exclusive retail services.

For more information, call 800-431-1515 or visit www.perillotours.com

To help celebrate their 30th anniversary in 2012, AdventureWomen, Inc. if offering a women’s only adventure that offers adventurous women the chance to explore Ancient Greece and the treasures of the island of Crete.

This women’s only tour of Greece is jam-packed with everything Greek: sunshine and olive trees, Delphi and the Acropolis, soft-sand beaches, lavender-turquoise water, and charming villages that are drenched with mythology, history, and charm.

Guests will marvel as they stand in the Acropolis in Athens where Plato and Socrates once debated politics and philosophy, as well as other places in Greece that were pivotal points in the history of the world .

Other highlights include exploring the Pelion Peninsula and one of its charming villages where the movie Mama Mia was filmed, discovering the World Heritage Site of Meteora and its ageless monasteries built one on top of the other, walking through the ruins of Delphi, considered by Greeks to be the center of the known world and home to the famous “Delphi oracle”.

The tour also includes a private Greek cooking class on Crete, an exploration of the fantastic Minoan ruins of Knossos, luxury accommodations in boutique Greek hotels, and much more.

Dates: October 5-16th, 2012. Price: $5,395* from Athens, Greece ($800 deposit) *Price is based on 2011 exchange rates. www.adventurewomen.com