Jetsettersblog

Langham 의 멜버른 오페라 호주 후원

With performances scheduled on Saturday evenings, Saturday afternoons and even during the week, Langham’s Wish Upon A Star accommodation package marries perfectly with an Opera Australia performance for a decadent weekend escape or wonderful mid week treat. And with a luxurious 2pm check-out, guests will have plenty of time to step back into the real world, following their fairytale experience the evening prior. Wish Upon A Star includes the following: • Overnight accommodation for two

• Breakfast for two in Melba restaurant

• Access to the Health Club and Wellness Centre including use of the gymnasium, conservatory covered pool and Jacuzzi, saunas, signature scented therapy steam rooms and therapeutic rain showers

• A bottle of chilled Domaine Chandon, chocolates and strawberries delivered to the guests room

• Late check-out of 2pm

• Valet parking.

Package Rate: From $480, until December 30, 2008. *Opera Australia tickets are not included in the package and must be booked independently by hotel guests. 2008 Opera Australia season dates: Nov 2008 Tue 11th Evening 7.30pm Madame Butterfly

• Puccini Sat 15th Evening 7.30pm Madame Butterfly

• Puccini Tue 18th Evening 7.30pm Otello

• Verdi Wed 19th Evening 7.30pm Madame Butterfly • Puccini Sat 22nd Matinee 1.00pm Madame Butterfly • Puccini Sat 22nd Evening 7.30pm Otello • Verdi Tue 25th Evening 7.30pm Otello

• Verdi Wed 26th Evening 7.30pm Madame Butterfly

• Puccini Thu 27th Evening 7.00pm Orlando

• Handel Fri 28th Evening 7.30pm Otello

• Verdi Sat 29th Matinee 1.00pm Madame Butterfly

• Puccini Sat 29th Evening 7.00pm Orlando

• Handel Dec 2008 Tue 2nd Evening 7.00pm Orlando

• Handel Wed 3rd Evening 7.30pm Otello

• Verdi Thu 4th Evening 7.30pm Madame Butterfly

• Puccini Sat 6th Matinee 1.00pm Otello

• Verdi Sat 6th Evening 7.30pm Madame Butterfly

• Puccini Tue 9th Evening 7.30pm Madame Butterfly

• Puccini Wed 10th Evening 7.00pm Orlando

• Handel Sat 13th Matinee 12.30pm Orlando

• Handel Sat 13th Evening 7.30pm Madame Butterfly

• Puccini Background notes: Situated in the exclusive riverside Southbank precinct and offering stunning views of the Melbourne city skyline, the Yarra River and Federation Square, The Langham, Melbourne offers an opulent inner-city experience. The 25-floor hotel is a member of the prestigious Leading Hotels of the World and has 387 luxuriously appointed rooms including 45 executive club rooms complete with personalised butler service.

The Langham, Melbourne was voted the 7th best hotel in the Travel + Leisure USA Worlds Best 2007 and is included on the Condé Nast Traveler US 2008 and Conde Nast Traveller UK 2008 Gold Lists as one of the World’s Best Hotels. The Aria lounge and exciting and interactive Melba restaurant were re launched in September 2006.

Extensive conference and meeting facilities are offered by the hotel and the five-star property is home to the recently opened, and highly acclaimed, luxury Chuan Spa. A member of the Leading Spas of the World, Chuan Spa is located adjoining the sun terrace, pool and hotel’s Health Club. Reservations for Langham hotels can be made by logging onto www.langhamhotels.com.

Hunter Valley Wineries at Shoal Bay Jazz Wine & Food Fest

Eight leading Hunter Valley wineries have been announced as this year’s “Rising Stars” to launch the 2008 Shoal Bay Jazz Wine & Food Festival.

The “Rising Stars” winemaker evening is a unique experience where food and wine enthusiasts will be treated to a stunning eight course degustation menu prepared by Executive Chef, Patrick Power and complemented by wines from Allandale Winery (Marc Robinson), Arrowfield Estate (Barry Kooij), Briar Ridge Vineyards (Mark Woods), Ironbark Hill Wines (James Dillon), Margan Family Wines (Liz Augustyn), Mount View Estate (Janelle Zerk), McWilliams Mount Pleasant (Andrew Leembruggen) and Pepper Tree Wines (Luke Watson). Entertainment for the evening will be provided by the popular jazz trio, Saxanova.

The “Rising Stars” winemaker evening will officially open the Festival on Friday 5th September from 6.30pm. Held in Catch at Shoal Bay, this unique experience welcomes eight aspiring winemakers from the world famous Hunter Valley area and provides a personal insight into one of their wines matched to each of the eight courses.

Throughout the evening, wines generously donated by the winemakers will be auctioned with the proceeds going to an established Hunter Valley Wine Industry Association Scholarship Fund to support young viticulturists and winemakers.

Set in an idyllic location, Catch at Shoal Bay proudly serves an abundance of outstanding local produce and exquisite wines from the Hunter region. The quality and presentation is like no other and is accompanied by spectacular bay views. Catch has become a popular culinary destination for local residents and visitors to the region alike. Director of Sales and Marketing at Shoal Bay Resort & Spa, Harlan Marriott commented “Port Stephens is surrounded by fertile waterways and vineyards, resulting in some of the finest produce in the world. This very special evening is an opportunity for locals and guests to enjoy a wonderful experience complemented by fine wines, while enjoying an education from aspiring experts in the business. All this in the perfect setting - overlooking Shoal Bay in Port Stephens.”

Set against the perfect backdrop of the white sands of Shoal Bay and the pristine waterways of Port Stephens, the Jazz Wine & Food Festival is a cultural experience not to be missed. While enjoying some of the finest wines and fresh produce from the local area, Winemakers will personally provide educational information on the wines being sampled as well as the history of the wineries from which they are produced.

Tantalise your taste buds with sumptuous local produce including seafood fresh from the Bay and a delicious range of cheeses from the Hunter region. Relax by picturesque Shoal Bay beach and enjoy the extraordinary musical talent on offer by popular musicians from the Newcastle and Sydney jazz music scene.

Make it a family day out! The kids can have fun on the jumping castle, have their faces painted and laugh along with the Festival clowns. There’s something for everyone at Shoal Bay Resort & Spa’s 2008 Jazz Wine & Food Festival on Saturday 6th September, 2008.

Tickets for the 2008 Rising Stars winemaker evening are limited at Aud$85 per person. To book call Reservations on (Aus only) 1800 18 18 10.

About the Rising Stars:

Marc Robinson – Allandale Winery

Marc Robinson’s first vintage was at Allandale Winery in 2004 whilst on school holidays. When he left school in 2006 he started full-time with Allandale as a cellar hand. During this time Marc developed a keen interest in wine production and in 2008 he enrolled in winemaking at Charles Sturt University. Marc is very fortunate to be working along side Bill Sneddon, Allandale’s Chief Winemaker for the past 25 years.

Barry Kooij – Arrowfield Estate

“I first got the wine bug while at University in New Zealand studying engineering. I had a housemate who worked in a bottle shop and brought home lots of free wine! I also joined the university wine club and got a part time job selling wine in supermarkets. At the same time the NZ wine industry was growing at a phenomenal rate and there was a lot of hype around the whole industry. Being a winemaker seemed a lot more appealing to me than being an engineer. So, after finishing my engineering degree I completed a viticulture and oenology post graduate diploma. From there I worked vintages in many regions across Australia as well as two vintages in California. This gave me a lot of experience in the many different grape varieties, wine styles and winemaking techniques used around the world.”

Mark Woods – Briar Ridge Vineyards

Mark is a graduate of Viticulture and Winemaking and joined the Briar Ridge team in 2005. Marks’ wines have continued the tradition of Briar Ridge Vineyard by receiving numerous awards and accolades. Mark consistently produces wines with characters indicative of their variety. Mark aims to produce premium quality wines in an approachable style for all to enjoy.

James Dillon – Ironbark Hill Wines

James Dillon is a foundation member of IronBark Hill. At the age of 19 he is at the younger end of the rising star spectrum. After only two years of experience, James heads IronBark Hill’s cellar door team, creating sales and marketing initiatives. IronBark Hill is a very young vineyard with a collection of vibrant and enthusiastic staff members to match its wines. James personifies the new face of this boutique winery. He already has a significant knowledge of the industry and a desire to introduce more young people to the wine experience.

Liz Augustyn – Margan Family Wines

Born in South Africa in 1975. Finish studies in oenology at Elsenburg Agricultural College in 1996. Worked for Laibach Vineyards (250tons) in Stellenbosch as winemaker for 3 years from 1997-2000. Worked for Stellenbosch Vineyards as wine maker for Helderburg Winery (1800tons) since 2000 till 2003. Currently working for Andrew Margan at Margan Family Winegrowers as his assistant winemaker since Jan 2004 (4 vintages), applying for permanent residency, getting married to another Hunter winemaker and is planning to stay in the Hunter.

Janelle Zerk – Mount View Estate

I am a fifth generation member of the ‘Zerk’ family vineyard in the Barossa Valley. I started helping my family in the vineyard at age five and the decision to become a winemaker was a natural progression. I studied a Bachelor of Agricultural Science (Oenology) at Adelaide University immediately after finishing school. I trained at two of Australia’s iconic wineries; St Hallett (Barossa Valley) and Brokenwood wines (Hunter Valley). I enjoyed working in the Hunter Valley so much that I decided to stay. Over the past six years, I have done winemaking stints for Wandin Valley Estate, Pepper Tree Wines and Cellarmaster wines. I accepted the job as winemaker at Mt View Estate in October 2007. I am currently planning an overseas vintage at Domaine Jean Chartron in Puligny Montrachet, Burgundy. My ambition is to make great wine and learn as much as I can from others along the way.

Andrew Leembruggen – McWilliams Mount Pleasant

Andrew is responsible for the production of McWilliam’s award winning range of Mount Pleasant wines. He has completed vintages in the southern Rhone Valley in France (2001); and in Coonawarra in South Australia (2001). Andrew is a founding committee member of the Young Hunter Valley Winemakers Association, and, since 2003, has been a Trainee and Associate Judge at the Hunter Valley Wine Show.

Luke Watson – Pepper Tree Wines

Luke Watson, assistant Winemaker at Pepper Tree Wines since 2002, first began his study in the field of Environmental Science then transferred into his beloved field of Winemaking. Luke’s good sense of humour, and easy going personality, nicely compliments a fierce desire to produce the best wines possible.

About Shoal Bay Resort & Spa:

Shoal Bay Resort & Spa is the ultimate beachfront resort for couples and families alike. Including 200 luxury self contained apartments, 4 restaurants, 5 bars, the iconic Country Club Hotel and the exclusive Aqua Spa.

Shoal Bay Resort & Spa overlooks the pristine white sandy beaches to Port Stephens volcanic Tomaree headland. Shoal Bay boasts walking and cycling tracks, flat water beaches perfect for families as well as three pristine unspoilt National Park surf beaches. For the more energetic a paved pathway to the top of Tomaree affords unparalleled views of Port Stephens, all within sight and a 10 minute stroll of the resort. Port Stephens is the largest Marine Park in NSW with over 160 resident dolphins and 7000 Humpback Whales passing within sight on migration each year.

Dining options range from the award winning Catch at Shoal Bay, the casual alfresco dining of Sandyfoot Café, the iconic Promenade Dining Room and the family friendly Mermaids Bar & Grill. The legendary Country Club Hotel still remains one of the most popular watering holes on the East Coast of Australia.

Aqua Spa includes the unique thalassotherapy mineral spas, twelve treatments rooms, group room and an extensive menu of treatments from hydrotherapy to massage.

Country Breaks In South Somerset

South Somerset is the ideal place to relax and enjoy the peace and tranquility of rural England. Pretty hamstone villages, sleepy hamlets and bustling market towns punctuate a rich tapestry of fields, orchards and woods.

An inspiration to artists and craftspeople, it has a wealth of historic country houses and glorious gardens to visit and is steeped in history. Evidence of bygone eras is all around from one of the largest Iron Age hill forts in Europe, Ham Hill, now a 400-acre country park, to the remote hill top site of Cadbury Castle, reputed to be King Arthur’s Camelot.

The diverse landscape is a haven for walkers, cyclists and horse riders with around 1,300 miles of way-marked routes to explore, while the numerous lakes, ponds and rivers are a delight for anglers.

The tradition of quality local produce has always flourished in South Somerset ranging from award winning cheeses and dairy products to fruit and vegetables, breads and traditionally smoked fish and meats. The region’s climate and soil conditions are also well suited for the production of quality cider, beer and wine.

In keeping with their rural heritage, the local towns and villages continue to hold festivals, fairs, rallies and celebrations throughout the calendar; among the most famous are the autumn carnivals complete with illuminated floats and colourful processions.

All this plus a host of attractions and museums ensures the visitor is literally spoilt for choice all year round.

Discover South Somerset’s Towns and Villages

Stretching from the broad expanse of the Blackmore Vale to the flat wetlands of the Somerset Levels while gentle hills and valleys reach to the Devon border, South Somerset encompasses some larger towns such as Yeovil and Chard as well as the pleasant market towns of Bruton, Ilminster, Crewkerne, Castle Cary and Wincanton, famous for its racecourse.

There are also some lesser known places such as Henstridge to the east where Sir Walter Raleigh is said to have first smoked tobacco at the Virginia Ash Inn; Muchelney once the site of an influential 10th century Benedictine Abbey and now the workplace of the famous potter John Leach and Hinton St George which witnesses an unusual event every October. Children parade candlelit mangel-wurzurls through the village to celebrate ‘Punky Night’ recalling when village wives tried to frighten their drunken husbands who had outstayed their leave at Chiselborough Fair.

Enchanting Gardens

South Somerset has several classic gardens open to the public each offering its own unique style from the archetypal English cottage gardens at East Lambrook Manor and Lower Severalls, to the formal gardens at Tintinhull House and Lytes Cary Manor, and the landscaped estates of Barrington Court and Hadspen. Near Yeovil is Montacute House, which is said to be one of the finest examples of a grand Elizabethan property anywhere in England; its formal gardens are often used as a stage for theatrical and musical events.

Themed Walking Routes

Three long distance walking trails pass through the region. The 28-mile Leland Trail traces the journey taken by John Leland when he was commissioned by King Henry VIII in the 1530s to seek out and record England’s antiquities. It leads through gentle agricultural landscapes from Alfred’s Tower on the Wiltshire border to Ham Hill west of Yeovil.

Also 28 miles long, the Liberty Trail follows the route that supporters of the Monmouth rebellion may have taken in 1685. It leads across the hills and vales from Ham Hill to the Dorset coast at Lyme Regis where the Duke landed on his return home from exile.

The 50-mile River Parrett Trail follows the course of the Parrett through South Somerset and across the Levels to its mouth at Bridgwater Bay in the north of the county, passing through one of Britain’s most ecologically sensitive and fragile areas. Along the route Somerset artists have used natural local materials to create stiles, bridges, gates, seats and sculptures.

South Somerset also offers numerous shorter, circular routes ideal for a morning’s stroll or the family looking for a little healthy exercise on a fine afternoon. An interesting walk around Barwick Park, near Yeovil takes in four weird and wonderful follies created during the first half of the nineteenth century. Located on the estate boundary at the four points of the compass, they are eccentric ornaments serving no useful purpose but are a source of fascination and speculation by all.

80 Mile South Somerset Circular Cycle Route

For keen cyclists the circular South Somerset 80 mile Cycle Route is one of the best ways to explore this scenic area of rural England. It takes in the region’s gentle hills and vales to the north east of Yeovil as well as the lowland moors, pretty hamstone villages and historic market towns.

The route map suggests starting in an anti-clockwise direction from Yeovil Junction railway station for those wishing to put their bike on a train, but it can be joined at any point. Cyclists should then follow the brown signs or Sustrans national cycle network numbers 30, 26 and 33.

Attractions for All

Visitors don’t have to be fascinated by transport to find the Haynes Motor Museum at Sparkford of interest. Boasting more than 300 rare and exotic cars, it has something to appeal to everyone while, across at Yeovilton, the Fleet Air Arm Museum showcases the best of Britain’s naval aviation through the ages. Displays include eight aircraft which cannot be seen anywhere else in the world; visitors can also go on board Concorde and be transported by a simulated helicopter flight to the replica flight deck of the aircraft carrier HMS Royal Ark.

Animal lovers can choose from three animal rescue centres to visit, namely the Ferne Animal Sanctuary, the National Animal Welfare Trust and the International League for the Protection of Horses. There’s also the Wildlife Park at Cricket St Thomas where families can get up close to over 500 animals from around the world and learn about wildlife conservation and endangered species.

And for those searching for something more unusual at Wincanton there is the only place dedicated to Terry Pratchett’s fantasy DISCWORLD while at Montacute the TV and Radio Toy Museum is home to a full size Dr Who Dalek and Tardis, which are on display amongst other nostalgic memorabilia from programmes over the years.

Taste of South Somerset

Wholesome, natural tastes can be enjoyed direct from the producers or farmers’ markets. The products are varied ranging from cider beer and wine; breads and pasties; dairy produce, seasonal fruit and vegetables to meat and poultry.

Visitors can witness many of the age-old methods of production from delicious ice cream made and flavoured the old-fashioned way to the Brown & Forrest Smokery at Hambridge where fish, meats and cheeses are prepared as they have been for eons. They can also visit the cider mills and distilleries where they can sample some of the West Country’s most famous flavours such as Perry’s Cider at Dowlish Wake, near Ilminster and the Somerset Distillery at Burrow Hill.

More Information

Details of this great wealth of things to see and do can be found online at www.visitsouthsomerset.com  or in the Discover South Somerset visitor guide.

Free copies are available from local Tourist Information Centres or by calling the Yeovil Heritage & Visitor Information Centre on 01935 845946, where they can also assist with accommodation suggestions.

Free London Hotel Stays With Show-And-Stay

Show-and-Stay® has announced details of a great-value special offer. This summer customers have the opportunity to enjoy a memorable West End show followed by a free hotel stay in the capital.

The offer applies to 13 leading shows, ensuring that all tastes are accommodated. Choose from Billy Elliott, Blood Brothers, Buddy, Chicago, Female of the Species, Marguerite, Never Forget, The Sound of Music, Spamalot, Stomp, We Will Rock You, Zorro and 39 Steps.

On selected performances until September 7, 2008, theatre-goers will pay the face value of their ticket and be entitled to an overnight stay at a 3-star hotel free of charge (for Billy Elliot, The Sound of Music, We Will Rock You and Never Forget, a supplement of £5 is payable).

Alternatively, for an additional supplement starting at just £10 per person, there is the option to upgrade to a room at one of our recommended 4-star hotels.

Each hotel enjoys a convenient location and is the perfect accompaniment to a theatre performance, allowing for a relaxed evening free from late return travel home.

The offer excludes Saturday evening performances on all shows as well as Friday evening performances of Buddy. Stomp is only available as part of the offer on Monday, Thursday and Friday evenings only.

To book, or for further information, visit www.show-and-stay.co.uk

Self Catering Offer In Newquay, Cornwall

Fancy training to be a lifeguard? Benefit from late availability discounts of up to 50% for stylish self catering apartments in Newquay, year-round outside of school holidays with www.cornishhorizons.co.uk 01841 533 331

Fistral beach in Newquay will host the 2010 World Lifesaving championships – with 40,000 competitors from over 40 countries it will be the biggest sporting event in the UK this side of the Olympic games.

Newquay in Cornwall is currently a mecca for lifeguard and beach rescue courses, so if you plan on being the next David Hasslehoff or Pamela Anderson, you might want to combine your training with luxury accommodation at the end of a hard day on the beach.

2 Harvest Moon, Newquay is a luxury four star self catering apartment sleeping 5 with a south facing sun terrace and sea glimpses. Available at 50% discount for holidays booked at less than 21 days notice (excludes school holiday weeks) Contact Cornish Horizons www.cornishhorizons.co.uk 01841 533 331

Flip Flops, Newquay sleeps 5 with a rooftop sea view and within walking distance of world famous Fistral beach and all facilities this VisitBritain-graded self catering apartment is available at 25% discount for holidays booked at less than 21 days notice (excludes school holiday weeks)

Contact Cornish Horizons www.cornishhorizons.co.uk  01841 533 331

Editor note: To be a professional lifeguard you need either the Royal Life Saving Society National Beach Lifeguard Qualification (NBLQ) or the National Aquatic Rescue Standard (NaRS) Beach Lifeguard Qualification. Commercial courses are available throughout Newquay.
http://www.lifesavers.org.uk/beach.html

10 Things For Under £20 in Bath

According to Travelmole a new survey has shown that almost half of British travellers are avoiding costly eurozone countries, with an increase in popularity of travel within the UK. Recently voted the 4th ‘Best European Destination’ by TripAdvisor, Bath is the ideal place for a holiday closer to home and offers everything needed for the perfect break, even on a limited budget. The following guide provides tips on 10 things to do in and around Bath for under £20.

1. Mayor’s Honorary Guides

Bath is an historic city bursting with Roman and Georgian heritage and what better way to learn more about it than taking a walking tour around the main sights with a professional and knowledgabe guide? With an impressive number of Grade 1 listed buildings, discover some of the hightlights including the The Royal Crescent, The Circus and Pulteney Bridge, as well as streets of beautiful Georgian townhouses, parades and charming cobbled alleyways. Starting from outside the main entrance to the Pump Room the Mayor’s Honorary Guides offer free walking tours which last approximately 2 hours. The tours run daily (details can be found on www.visitbath.co.uk) and are a great introduction to Bath’s fascinating past.

2. Victoria Art Gallery

The Victoria Art Gallery on Bridge Street has free entry and is an excellent place to spend some time enjoying the work of Gainsborough, Sickert, Zoffany and many other leading artists from the 15th century to the present day. The Gallery also has one of the best temporary exhibition programmes in the region, ranging from prints to sculpture, including national touring exhibitions.

3. Boat Trip along the River Avon

See the city from a different perspective and join a pleasure boat sailing downstream through Bath along the River Avon. Listen to the commentary on the historic sights whilst taking in some of the tranquil views of the river and its wildlife. There are several companies that offer boat trips with frequent departures from Pulteney Bridge all day long. Tickets cost around £5.

4. Bath Abbey

Situated in the centre of the city next to the Pump Room and Roman Baths the striking Bath Abbey, which towers over adjacent buildings, is the last of the great medieval churches of England and is well-worth a visit. (A donation of £2.50 is welcomed to help conserve and maintain the church). Over the past twelve and a half centuries, three different churches have occupied the site of today’s Abbey; an Anglo-Saxon Abbey Church dating from 757; a Norman cathedral begun around 1090 and the present Abbey founded in 1499.

5. Drink the spa water in the Pump Room

Spa water has been used for curative purposes for two thousand years and originally involved bathing in the hot waters. In the late 17th Century, however, drinking spa water also came to be a recognised treatment for certain conditions. Today the hot spa water, which contains 43 minerals and has an ‘unusual’ taste, can be bought for just 50p a glass at the fountain in the Pump Room.

6. Explore Bath’s countryside and gardens

Bath is located in a delightful setting with rolling hills, waterways, nearby villages and picturesque market towns. What better way to explore the surrounding countryside than to enjoy a walk along the Kennet and Avon Canal or the Bath Skyline Walk with six miles of marked trails offering views of valleys, woodlands, patchwork meadows and beautiful Georgian cityscape. Maps with details of the trails are available from the Tourist Information Centre in Abbey Chambers. There are many manor houses and stately homes with beautiful gardens in and around Bath that are well worth a visit. Corsham Court, one of England’s finest stately homes based upon an Elizabethan Manor dating from 1582, has extensive formal gardens that can be enjoyed for a small admission cost of £2.50. The Georgian Garden situated behind Number 4 The Circus has been recreated to the original plan of 1760 to show a typical layout of the period. Admission to the garden is free and open 7 days a week.

7. Jane Austen

‘In the footsteps of Jane Austen’ is a free audio walking tour of Bath which can be downloaded from the www.visitbath.co.uk/janeausten website. Jane Austen was one of Bath’s most famous residents and two of her novels are mostly set in Bath, Northanger Abbey and Persuasion. The tour takes you around the highlights of the city and includes extracts from Jane Austen’s novels and letters, which brilliantly describe Bath as it would have been in its Georgian heyday. And after the tour, visit the Regency Tea Rooms in the Jane Austen Centre for afternoon tea with 8 varieties of loose leaf tea to choose from.

8. Theatre

Now more than 200 years old, the Georgian Theatre Royal in central Bath offers a year-round programme of top-quality drama, opera, comedy, dance and frequent Sunday concerts. 40 standby tickets are available for purchase on the day of the performance for £5 and once sold, standing places can be purchased for just £3.

9. Picnic in Victoria Park

Located in the heart of the city with the iconic Royal Crescent as its backdrop, Royal Victoria Park is the perfect setting for a picnic. Pack a hamper with some delicious local food from one of the many superb delicatessens in the city such as the Fine Cheese Company who stock 150 varieties, Deli Shush in the Guildhall or Harvest Natural Foods who sell locally prepared vegetarian savoury and sweet specialities in the deli section of their shop on Walcot Street, and then choose a spot in the park’s 57 acres and enjoy!

10. King Bladud’s Pigs in Bath

According to legend, King Bladud founded the city of Bath and discovered the city’s unique springs when his herd of pigs rolled around in the hot mud near the springs and were cured of leprosy. King Bladud’s Pigs in Bath is a summer 2008 public art event to celebrate Bath, its origins and its artists and provide residents and visitors with some artistic enjoyment. 100 life-size pig sculptures turned into works of art are on display throughout the summer all around Bath and beyond. Printed maps are available from the Tourist Information Centre in Abbey Chambers, showing all 100 pigs and details of their names, artists and sponsors.

Other Money Saving Tips

Bath and the surrounding area offers so much for visitors and the above suggestions are only the start! No visit to Bath is complete without learning about the Roman Baths and for just £14, a joint-entry ticket to the Roman Baths and Fashion Museum can be purchased.

Thermae Bath Spa is another of the city’s great attractions and is the only spa in the country where you can bathe in natural thermal waters. Available Sunday - Friday after 5pm, the twilight package offers visitors the chance to purchase a 3-hour spa session for the price of 2 for £35 and includes a delicious, light meal in the Springs Café & Restaurant, a glass or wine or lager and complimentary use of towel, slippers and robe. To make savings across a number of attractions, restaurants and shops a visitor card can be purchased for £3 from the Tourist Information Centre in Abbey Chambers or online at www.visitbathshop.co.uk

Offers include 2-for-1 deals, discounts and added extras at restaurants such as the Hole in the Wall, attractions including Bath Aqua Glass and the American Museum in Britain among many others.

The official tourism website www.visitbath.co.uk offers on-line accommodation booking for B&Bs, hotels, hostels and self catering properties in Bath and the surrounding area. There are also a number of offers and short break packages available on www.visitbath.co.uk/shortbreaks.

There are so many options available in Bath and the surrounding area for a break or a day out for visitors on a budget. The www.visitbath.co.uk website provides all the information needed for a trip to this stunning city and offers suggestions on things to see and do, places to eat out, details of festivals and events taking place in the area, shopping, tours and much more

India’s Golden Triangle By Rail With Great Rail Journeys

Geat rRail Journeys – the UK’s market leader for escorted holidays by rail - has extended its India programme for 2009 with the introduction of a new 13-day India’s Golden Triangle tour visiting Delhi, Agra, Jaipur and Shimla.

Highlights of the holiday include journeys on the Shatabdi Express - in air-conditioned Executive Chair Class - and the narrow gauge Toy Train (recently awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status after being recognised as “one of the most authentic mountain railways in the world), which travels through the stunning scenery of the Shivalik Mountains for a three-night stay in the colonial town of Shimla together with a sightseeing tour by jeep.

There are also visits to the Taj Mahal and Red Fort – originating from the 15th century – at Agra; the ancient red sandstone city of Fatehpur Sikri which was built in the 16th century as India’s political capital but subsequently abandoned, and the Pink City of Jaipur where the Palace of the Winds and some of the country’s best bazaars are to be found.

In addition, there’s the possibility of reaching the Amber Fort by elephant before continuing to Jaigarh Fort - for superb views of the foothills of the Aravalli range of mountains - as well as enjoying a sightseeing tour of Old and New Delhi which takes in India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhavan – official residence of the Indian president – and the country’s largest mosque, Jama Masjib.

Accomodation on the tour is in five-star hotels all of which offer a blend of classic, colonial and contemporary styles and includes the Jai Mahal Palace in Jaipur - once the residence of the Prime Minister of the state of Jaipur.

Available on selected dates in April, September and October 2009, prices start from £1995 per person, twin-share, inclusive of return scheduled London/Delhi flights, rail travel, 11 nights’ five-star hotel accommodation with breakfast and dinner each day, four lunches, all excursions as per the itinerary, transfers and luggage handling in India, plus the services of a Tour Manager throughout.

Reservations: 01904 527 180, www.GreatRail.com

• Great Rail Journeys is the leading operator of rail-inclusive, escorted group tours to Europe and throughout the rest of the world.

• Passengers travel in groups of 30-40 people, accompanied throughout by an experienced Tour Manager.

• Travel commences by rail from St Pancras International (except for long haul holidays).

• Customers normally stay in hotels en route and at their destination, although on some ‘Cruise Trains’ they do sleep on board the train.

• Signature Great Rail Journeys tours include: The Trans-Siberian Express; the Glacier Express; USA Coast to Coast; India’s Place on Wheels, The Marrakech Express and The Arctic Circle Express.

• Great Rail Journeys can also arrange

• rail travel from a local station to London
• overnight hotel accommodation in London
• holiday insurance
• pre or post tour holiday extensions

Great Rail Journeys is ABTA and ATOL-bonded and a member of AITO, which has awarded the company two-star status within its Responsible Tourism programme.

As part of the company’s commitment to reducing the effect of rail travel on our environment, it has pledged £10,000 to Climate Care, its chosen Carbon Offset Partner. These funds will directly support one of Climate Care’s projects.

The company pledges to offset the carbon emissions generated by the air travel of its Tour Managers, plus the emissions generated by the business air travel of its office staff whilst researching holidays. Customers can offset their CO2 emissions using the company’s preferred Offset Partner, Climate Care.

New Tiger Direct Tour

Good news from India’s Tiger heartland! An unprecedented number of Tiger cubs have recently been born in the forests of Pench Tiger Reserve – 10 in total. The cubs were seen with their mothers on the lower reaches of the Satpura Hills and are being monitored regularly by park naturalists.

Naturetrek visits Pench Tiger Reserve during its new 9-day Tiger Direct tour utilising new direct flights from London to Nagpur – don’t miss the opportunity to spot the newcomers when the park re-opens later this year. Tours depart London 10th & 17th November 2008 – 2009 dates also available.

This is, quite simply, the most convenient Tiger tour yet! By taking advantage of new international flights to Nagpur, the capital of Madhya Pradesh (heartland of the Tiger),

Naturetrek offers the wildlife enthusiast the ultimate luxury — a holiday to India that avoids large cities! Maximising time spent in India’s wonderful national parks and tiger reserves, and minimising time spent travelling, particularly negotiating India’s ‘urban jungles’, means more opportunities for Tiger spotting.

As Pench National Park is an easy drive of just over two hours from Nagpur, travellers embark on a game drive on their very first morning in India. Pench rose to prominence following its designation as Project Tiger’s 19th Tiger reserve in 1992 and today it protects 758 square kilometres of prime Tiger habitat. It is situated amongst the southern reaches of the Satpura Hills in the Seoni and Chhindwara districts, the inspiration for Rudyard Kipling’s ‘Jungle Book’.

The park spans the border of the states of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, which is marked by the Pench River as it meanders from north to south through the reserve.

During the dry season the river ceases to flow, forming pools which provide the primary watering holes for Tigers and all other wildlife.

On the southern boundary of the park the Pench River has been dammed to generate hydro-electricity, and around the banks of this dam many waterbirds and mammals may be found, amongst them Asiatic Jackal and Nilgai.

From Pench, Naturetrek moves onto Kanha National Park, one of Project Tiger’s key Tiger reserves, and because its meadows are so suited to successful Tiger viewing, one of the best places in the world to search for this majestic big cat.

Besides Tiger, Sambar, Spotted and Swamp Deer, Gaur, Asiatic Jackal and, with luck, Leopard and Dhole, may also be observed.

The tour costs £1,895 p/p including flights, transfers, accommodation, all meals and expertly-guided wildlife viewing.

Naturetrek
01962 733051
info@naturetrek.co.uk
www.naturetrek.co.uk

Bargain Holidays To Co Cork

Bargain-price holidays to beautiful Co Cork in Ireland – with self-catering cottage accommodation at the four-star Mountainview Holiday Homes on the scenic Beara Peninsula – is the offer from Irish Ferries Holidays.

The site is within walking distance of the pubs, shops and restaurants of the nearby town of Glengariff and a short drive from the coast.

The cost of a week’s holiday for two adults and up to three children is now £899 – a saving of £126 – inclusive of return cruise ferry crossing for car and passengers from Holyhead or Pembroke.

08705 17 17 17,

www.irishferries.com

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

Read Ireland feature stories from Jetsetters Magazine at this link:

Luxury Hotel Caught A Pounder Challenge

Exclusive Scottish hotel, Ardanaiseig, set on the shores of Loch Awe and within the grandeur of the Highlands, has launched a new ‘Caught a Pounder’ challenge, tempting adventurous guests to catch what they eat.

Ardanaiseig’s own ghillie, Dave Sturrock, leads a personal stalking challenge, allowing visitors to stalk and shoot their own stag in the rugged and beautiful countryside surrounding the hotel. That evening, as the sun sets across the Loch, award winning chef, Gary Goldie, will personally prepare delicious homemade venison burgers to sizzle on the hotel’s barbecue as guests unwind with breathtaking views across the water, the neighbouring hills and heather.

The hotel already offers guests the ‘hook and cook’ package, by which they catch a fish from their own boat on the Loch which is then served up for supper. Alongside ‘Hook & Cook’, their new ‘Caught a Pounder’ package will appeal to businesspeople and leisure tourists alike, offering an invigorating challenge with a delicious outdoors twist.

The restaurant, which serves a five-course gourmet menu every evening, is renowned for its creativity with local fish, game and other wild produce including freshly picked chanterelle mushrooms foraged from the woods on the estate. Both Chef de Cuisine Gary Goldie and the restaurant have won several awards and with stunning views across Loch Awe, dining at Ardanaiseig is a truly unique experience.

Surrounded by hills, including a number of Munros, water and quiet country roads, energetic guests are spoilt for choice with excellent walking, fishing, boating and cycling all available on the doorstep. There is also an abundance of wildlife and the garden itself has over 100 different species of trees.

Package including: two night’s luxury accommodation with views over the loch; a morning stalking with the ghillie; dinner bed and breakfast on both nights; plus a barbeque and lunch, costs from £500pp.