Jetsettersblog

If you’re looking to escape the silly season and experience Christmas with a difference then On the Go still have some late availability on offer to fantastic far flung places. Just grab a flight and head for the sun or snow – the choice is yours!

Egypt -
Party with the Pharaohs – 6 days
The ideal Xmas or New Year’s mini – getaway! Spend Xmas Day or New Year’s Eve relaxing by the pool in sunny Cairo! We’ll reveal the very best of ancient Egypt this Xmas or New Year’s from the legendary Pyramids and antiquity filled Egyptian Museum, to the tomb strewn Valley of the Kings and back again! Departs 20 and 26 December – £369 per person excluding flights

Egypt & Jordan -
Festive Road to Jordan – 16 days
The ultimate Egypt & Jordan experience. Pyramids, Petra, Red Sea & Dead Sea – do something out of the ordinary this New Year – spend it under the desert stars in Wadi Rum, sailing the Nile on a felucca cruise or celebrating by the Red Sea in Dahab! Departs 17, 21 or 27 December – £1,129 per person excluding flights

Jordan -
Enjoy XMAS in Petra or New Years Wadi Rum – 8 days
Jordan is overflowing with magnetic attractions. Discover the Rose City of Petra, float like a cork on the Dead Sea and camp under the stars in remote Wadi Rum! Xmas in Petra departs 22 & NY in Wadi Rum departs 27 December – both tours £779 per person excluding flights

Russia -
News Years Red Square – 9 days
Where will you be celebrating on New Year’s Eve? Ring in the New Year in Moscow’s Red Square, journey through Russia’s heartland for some alpine fun and a steamy banya in Pskov before heading north to beautiful St Petersburg. Departs 26 Dec – £599 per person excluding flights

Morocco -
Christmas in Morocco – 8 days
Make your way to magical Morocco this Christmas, a short hop from Europe but worlds apart. An exotic land of spices, ancient Kasbahs, rolling Saharan sands, verdant valleys and bustling souks. Departs 23 December – £579 per person excluding flights

Surf the New Year – 11 Days
Spend a cracking Christmas exploring the Atlas, snap up some bargains in the souks of Marrakech and ring in the New Year beachside in Essaouira, on Morocco’s stunning Atlantic coast! Departs 23 December – £679 per person excluding fights

India -
Shere Khan – 9 days
With all the highlights of Delhi, Jaipur and Agra, we also go in search of Shere Khan himself, at Ranthambhore, one of India’s best national parks and home of the tiger! Departs 17 December – £729 per person excludes flights

China- SAVE 10%
A Chinese New Year – 11 days
Enjoy Christmas and 5 star New Year’s Eve climbing the Great Wall, sightseeing in Beijing, tackling terracotta warriors & throwing snowballs at Harbin’s Ice Sculpture festival! Departs 23 December – now £764 per person excludes flights, a saving of £85!

1. WHERE: VIETNAM
HOW LONG: 7 days
Set in the cool mountains of Vietnam’s northwest, Sapa became a favourite amongst the French colonialists seeking to escape the heat. Enjoy true rural hospitality, follow secluded trails, experience an overnight train journey and explore the busy Old Quarter of Hanoi.
BOOK IT: World Expeditions’ 7-day Sapa Trek departs daily year round, from £650 per person.

2. WHERE: TANZANIA
HOW LONG: 8 days
An up, close and personal African safari trip that presents countless captivating moments to savour. Explore the renowned parks of Tanzania with numerous game drives and visit incredible sites such as the world famous Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater.
BOOK IT: World Expeditions’ 8-day Northern Tanzania Circuit departs on 22 December 2011, with further departures scheduled in 2012, from £1,690 per person.

3. WHERE: BHUTAN
HOW LONG: 8 days
A comprehensive journey through the remote and culturally rich kingdom Bhutan, taking in the iconic Taktsang Monastery, the sights and sounds of capital Thimphu and a drive across the Dochu La Pass to explore the isolated yet beautiful Gangtey Valley.
BOOK IT: World Expeditions’ 8-day Essence of Bhutan departs daily from September to May, from £1,250 per person.

4. WHERE: JAPAN
HOW LONG: 8 days
Stunning coastlines, rolling mountain scenery, World Heritage National Parks and a rich cultural heritage: team this with an exquisite cuisine and hot springs to soak in after a stunning day’s ride and you see why Hokkaido is one of Japan’s most idyllic destinations.
BOOK IT: World Expeditions’ 8-day Secrets of Hokkaido by bike has five departures from June-September 2012, from £1,990 per person.

5. WHERE: NAMIBIA
HOW LONG: 10 days
Game viewing in Etosha National Park, cultural interaction with a Himba tribe, rock art at Twyfelfontien and visits to the Skeleton Coast and the Namib Desert: just some of the highlights of this encompassing itinerary in stunning Namibia!
BOOK IT: World Expeditions’ Namibian Explorer departs every Tuesday until March 2012 (every Friday from April 2012), from £990 per person.

6. WHERE: FROM EGYPT TO JORDAN
HOW LONG: 8 days
Step into the rich historical legacy of Pharaonic Egypt’s pyramids before journeying into the Sinai and the land of the Bedouins. In Jordan, tour the dramatic Wadi Rum by jeep, explore the iconic monuments of Petra and have a swim in the world famous Dead Sea!
BOOK IT: World Expeditions’ 8-day Pyramids to Petra departs on 4 December 2011, with further departures scheduled in 2012, from £990 per person.

7. WHERE: ANTARCTICA
HOW LONG: 10 days
Follow in the footsteps of the great heroes of the Antarctic history as you set sail from the tip of South America, accompanied by expert naturalists. With the most dramatic scenery and biggest variety of wildlife, Antarctica is all about discovery and exploration.
BOOK IT: World Expeditions’ 10-day Discover Antarctica departs on 1 January and 20 March 2012, from $5,290 (£3,299) per person.

8. WHERE: CHINA
HOW LONG: 10 days
Trek along a remote section of the Great Wall, one of the greatest wonders of the world, away from the crowds. Take in the vast and diverse scenery, savour true rural Chinese hospitality and complete the experience in Beijing visiting the historic Forbidden City.
BOOK IT: World Expeditions’ 10-day Great Wall Trek has six departures from May-October 2012, from £1,150 per person.

9. WHERE: ECUADOR
HOW LONG: 7 days
This jam-packed trip is an ideal introduction to Ecuador. In addition to the bustling capital of Quito and the colourful Indian markets of Otavalo, it incorporates the volcanic spine of Ecuador, the sensational Cotopaxi National Park and the famous Devil’s Nose Train.
BOOK IT: World Expeditions’ 7-day Ecuador Experience departs every day except Thursday year round, from £1,050 per person.

10. WHERE: NEPAL
HOW LONG: 8 days
From the vibrant capital of Kathmandu and the stunning sunset and sunrise in Dhulikhel to Pokhara, the gateway to the Annapurna region, and the wildlife safari at Chitwan National Park, this trip is a balanced mix of relaxation and marvellous mountain views.
BOOK IT: World Expeditions’ 9-day Nepal Discovery departs on 16 December 2011, with further departures scheduled in 2012, from £890 per person.

For more information and bookings please visit www.worldexpeditions.co.uk  or call 0800 0744 135. World Expeditions’ all-inclusive policy ensures there are no local payments. Prices do not include international flights, however these can be arranged on request.

The new 2012/13 Mountain Kingdoms brochure is out now – call 01453 844400 for a copy or email info@mountainkingdoms.com

Packed with 120 exciting holidays, there are 23 fabulous new treks and tours in addition to lots of old favourites.

Highlights include four new trips to the must see destination of 2012, Burma, some wild and remote treks in Nepal, and the southernmost trek in the world in Tierra del Fuego.

Once again the Mountain Kingdoms Early Bird booking incentive will reward those keen to book, and this year applies to all 2012 flight inclusive holidays featured in the new brochure.
Clients booking before the 30th November 2011 will receive a £50 discount – visit www.mountainkingdoms.com  for details and conditions.

NEW TREKS & TOURS

Bhutan

Birding in Bhutan – an exceptional specialist tour created for true birding enthusiasts in a paradise of rare and endemic birds.

Dragon Kingdoms of Burma & Bhutan – an easy walking and sightseeing holiday to two of the world’s most remarkable Buddhist kingdoms.
Mount Chomolhari & the Bonte La – magnificent high mountain trekking beneath snowy peaks, through remote valleys and across high passes.

Nepal

Village Trails of Nepal – the perfect gentle walking holiday combining relaxed day walks, comfortable hotels and the spectacular Himalaya.

Annapurna & Everest Panorama Trek – two short tea house treks amidst the breathtaking scenery of Nepal’s two most famous mountain ranges.

Everest Base Camp in Style – exhilarating strenuous trek to Everest Base Camp and Kala Pattar, staying in the Khumbu’s best lodges.

Rolwaling & Bigu Gompa – a glorious trek to one of Nepal’s best ‘off the beaten track’ mountain valleys, next to the Tibetan border.

Api Base Camp with Tashi Tenzing – a reconnaissance trek led by Tenzing Norgay’s grandson, in a remote, little visited, corner of Nepal.

The Kagmara La Pass to Dolpo – a thrilling trek in ‘Wild Nepal’, from the calm waters of Rara Lake, over the Kagmara La to isolated Upper Dolpo.

India & Sri Lanka

Incredible India & Brahmaputra River Cruise – an enthralling tour encompassing both the frenetic energy and serene beauty of India.
Leh & Indus Valley Trails – a delightful short summer walking holiday to the mountains and monasteries of ‘Little Tibet’.
Trails of Buddha’s Island, Sri Lanka – a gentle walking holiday visiting the island’s main historical, cultural, wildlife and scenic highlights.

Mongolia & Central Asia

Genghis Khan Trails & Naadam Festival – take the Trans-Mongolian train from Beijing to experience ancient cities, desert travels, mountain walks and traditional festivities.

Nomads & Ibex Trek – a two week magical, mountain adventure in the remote northwest corner of Mongolia.
K2 & Gasherbrum Base Camps – a sensational trek through wild, dramatic and unspoiled scenery into the heart of the Karakoram mountains.

Burma

First Class Tour of Burma – a relaxed exploration of the cultural and scenic highlights of the Golden Land, staying in quality hotels throughout.

Dragon Kingdoms of Burma & Bhutan – an easy walking and sightseeing holiday to two of the world’s most remarkable Buddhist kingdoms.

Golden Trails of Burma – gentle walks, cultural highlights and comfortable accommodation – the best way to explore this remarkable country.
Mount Phongun & the Burmese Himalaya – trekking in the remote highlands of northern Burma, with an ascent of Phongun Razi (3,635m/11,920ft).

Other destinations

Northern Lights & Husky Sledding, Norway – an action-packed winter adventure in Norway’s icy north, aiming to see the dazzling Northern Lights and taking in a thrilling sledding experience.

Tierra del Fuego – the Ultimate Adventure – from the southernmost trek in the world to Patagonia, via a voyage through the Beagle Channel.

Bedouin Trails of Jordan – easy walking and sightseeing in Jordan, from the Dead Sea to the Red Sea.

Serengeti Walking Safari – unspoiled landscapes, impressive wildlife and luxury camping – the best way to experience wild Africa.

Ngorongoro Highlands & Serengeti Wilderness – a fabulous walking safari in style in two of Africa’s most pristine wildlife areas.

As many Tintin enthusiasts await the release of The Adventures of Tintin: Secret of the Unicorn later this month, On the Go Tours gear up to operate an exciting suite of adult and family Tintin tours to India, Egypt and Jordan. Last year On the Go Tours broke new ground by joining forces with Moulinsart, the rights holders to the work of Hergé and gained the exclusive rights to act as the only global Tour Operator offering avid fans the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of the world’s favourite Adventurer.

Each Tintin tour carefully combines the comforts of modern travel with the excitement and adrenaline of an original Tintin trail. Expert local guides are on hand to ensure guests really get to know destinations inside out, whilst well known ‘Tintinologist’ Michael Farr will personally accompany some expeditions to share his passion, experience and insights about Hergé and his inspirations.

As a Spielberg/Jackson co-directed production it is thought that Tintin, and his beloved side-kick Snowy will capture the hearts of a brand new audience including many young British children. Destination Tintin holidays represent the ultimate family holiday with fun for all generations!

India – 15 days from £1,999 per adult
A two week escapade in the land of the Maharaja Gaipajama recapturing much of the imagery portrayed in Tintin’s travels. Highlights of the trip include: Delhi – both old and new; Agra – home to the Taj Mahal and the jewel of India’s crown; Ranthambhore National Park – where those who are very lucky may spot a tiger; the City of Jaipur – the beautiful Pink City; the majestic Jodhpur – perched on the edge of the Thar Desert; and Shimla the romantic hill station and capital of the British Raj.

Egypt – 10 days from £1,199 per adult
Dr Sarcophagus – here we come! This ten-day journey takes explorers through the mysterious land of the Pharaohs,where they will discover amazing pyramids and the treasures of the famed Egyptian museum; sail down theriver Nile; ride in a hot air balloon over Luxor’s deserted West Bank; search out ancient tombs in the Valley of the Kings and Queens; take a flight at day break to the colossal temple of King Ramses II at Abu Simbel; and soak up the atmosphere of buzzing Cairo. There’s also a visit to Port Said where guests can visit the spot where Tintin first lands on Egyptian soil – a high point for any Tintin fan!

Jordan – 8 days from £1,179 per adult
Witness Hergé’s fictional creations magically spring to life on this Arabian adventure through the enchanting Kingdom of Jordan. In eight fun-filled days guests will take a dip in the mineral-rich Dead Sea; explore the medieval Shobak Castle; uncover the Rose City of Petra – Jordan’s glittering archaeological crown; camp under the stars in the vast Wadi Rum desert; and snorkel in the warm waters of the Red Sea at Aqaba.

1. IF YOU LIKED KENYA…TRY MADAGASCAR

WHY: From ring-tailed lemurs to baobab trees, Madagascar is a biodiversity hotspot: over 80% of its plant and animal species are found nowhere else on Earth!

BOOK IT: Unique Madagascar with World Expeditions (10 days) has six departures from May-October 2012, from £1,250 per person.

2. IF YOU LIKED JORDAN…TRY IRAN

WHY: It may not have iconic landmarks such as Petra but Iran is home to one of the world’s oldest continuous major civilizations, with historical and urban settlements dating back to 4,000BC!

BOOK IT: Best of Iran with World Expeditions (11 days) departs on 24 October and 7 November with further departures in 2012, from £1,590 per person.

3. IF YOU LIKED MOROCCO…TRY OMAN

WHY: Traditional souks, Bedouin settlements, rugged mountains, desert dunes and a rich history of wealth and power in a country which as recently as 30 years ago was closed to foreigners.
BOOK IT: Oman Adventure with World Expeditions (9 days) has seven departures until the end of the year, from £1,490 per person.

4. IF YOU LIKED: CAMBODIA…TRY: MYANMAR

WHY: They may not be as famous but the Temples of Bagan in Myanmar are just as iconic as the spectacular Angkor Wat complex.
BOOK IT: Highlights of Myanmar with World Expeditions (12 days) has departures every month, from £1,290 per person.

5. IF YOU LIKED NAMIBIA…TRY ETHIOPIA

WHY: More than a land of natural contrasts (from some of Africa’s highest mountains to some of the world’s lowest points below sea level!) Ethiopia is a mosaic of cultures: one of the first Christian countries yet with evident influences from Islam and tribal African cultures.
BOOK IT: Ethiopia Explorer with World Expeditions (16 days) departs on 18 November and 16 December with further departures scheduled for 2012 to coincide with the Timket Festival, from £2,190 per person.

6. IF YOU LIKED NORWAY…TRY THE NORTHERN RUSSIAN ARCTIC

WHY: Rugged and off the beaten track, the Russian Arctic and Far East is a region that was until recently ‘off limits’ to western visitors.

BOOK IT: Across the top of the world – Northern Russian Arctic with World Expeditions (15 days) departs on 25 July and 8 August 2012, from $7,150 (£4,606) per person.

7. IF YOU LIKED THE AMAZON…TRY PAPUA NEW GUINEA

WHY: Just as Amazon is one of the planet’s enigmas, Papua New Guinea remains one of the world’s least explored countries, both culturally and geographically. With over 850 indigenous languages, it is the world’s most diverse nation linguistically!

BOOK IT: Cruise Papua New Guinea with World Expeditions (13 days) departs on 2 April 2012, from £3,790 per person for a quadruple cabin.

8. IF YOU LIKED ALASKA…TRY PATAGONIA

WHY: A mix of glacial lakes, towering granite peaks, impressive glaciers, secluded lakes, beech forests and rolling grasslands, Patagonia is one of the most dramatic regions of the world.

BOOK IT: Patagonia Parks and Wildlife with World Expeditions (18 days) departs on 19 November and 16 December with further departures scheduled for 2012, from £2,990 per person.

9. IF YOU LIKED CUBA…TRY VENEZUELA

WHY: Buying and selling cars is the latest development in the rapidly changing Cuba; head to Venezuela instead for a better feel of ‘socialist revolution’.

BOOK IT: Venezuela – The Lost World and Angel Falls with World Expeditions (15 days), departs on 16 December with further departures scheduled for 2012, from £1,990 per person.

10. IF YOU LIKED CHINA…TRY TAIWAN

WHY: With frozen relations between the two countries until recently and lack of direct flights for nearly 60 years, Taiwan has maintained a more authentic experience compared to mainland China.

BOOK IT: Hike and bike Taiwan with World Expeditions (10 days) departs on 16 November with further departures scheduled for 2012, from £1,790 per person.

For more information and bookings please visit www.worldexpeditions.co.uk or call 0800 0744 135. World Expeditions’ all-inclusive policy ensures there are no local payments. Prices do not include international flights, however these can be arranged on request.

MIDDLE EAST SPECIALIST COX & KINGS LAUNCHES PROGRAMME FOR 2012, WITH A NEW GROUP TOUR TO KYRGYZSTAN AND IN-DEPTH EGYPT AND JORDAN ITINERARIES

The world’s longest established travel company, Cox & Kings, has launched its new Middle East brochure for 2012, featuring a comprehensive programme of escorted group tours and private tailor-made travel to the Middle East, North Africa, Central Asia, and the Gulf. New for 2012 is Kyrgyzstan, with an escorted group tour and private itineraries, a new Nile cruise, and twin centre suggestions combining Dubai or Oman with the Indian Ocean or South Africa.

Peter Hilton, Cox & Kings’ Middle East product manager says, “After a turbulent year for the Middle East product, we are seeing a surge in new enquiries for destinations such as Jordan and Egypt. We actually saw a 17% increase in bookings for our Splendour of Jordan tour in July 2011 compared with 2010. Cox & Kings provides one of the most complete programmes to the Middle East. We have the experience, knowledge and expertise both in our London office and on the ground to arrange an itinerary perfectly suited to clients’ exact requirements. There’s very little we can’t arrange”.

NEW: EGYPT: SONESTA CLASSIC NILE CRUISE p18 This classic Egyptian itinerary combines a stay in one of Cairo’s finest character hotels with a relaxing seven-night cruise on the elegant Sonesta Moon Goddess. Sonesta Classic Nile Cruise is an 11-day / 10-night escorted group or private tour priced from £1,775 per person including international flights with bmi, transfers, guided excursions and accommodation with breakfast daily and full board on the cruise. Private transfers and a private English-speaking guide in Cairo can be arranged for an additional £95 per person.

JORDAN p57 Cox & Kings’ bestselling group tour to Jordan has 42 departures scheduled to run in 2012, with prices comparable to this year. Despite the downturn in bookings for 2011, Cox & Kings is confident that numbers will return. Hilton says, “The political situation in Jordan has been largely unaffected by the uprisings that have occurred elsewhere. Jordan is a safe, welcoming and cosmopolitan country with a wealth of historic sites to attract visitors. This is an excellent time to go when popular sites such as Petra will be less crowded”.

The 8-day / 7-night Splendours of Jordan group tour is priced from £1,425 per person including flights with Royal Jordanian Airlines, transfers, excursions, accommodation at Marriott hotels throughout with breakfast daily and other meals as specified.

NEW: COLOURS OF KYRGYZSTAN p88 Due to an increase in interest to Central Asia, Cox & Kings is expanding its portfolio to offer group and private tours to Kyrgyzstan in 2012. From the white peaks of the Tien Shan mountain range and the deep blue of Lake Issyk-Kul to the striking red cliffs of Djety-Oguz and the green gorge of Ala-Archa, this new tour explores some of the Kyrgyzstan’s most colourful highlights in one of Central Asia’s most picturesque countries. The 9-day / 7-night Colours of Kyrgyzstan escorted tour is priced from £1,895 per person and includes international flight with bmi, transfers, excursions and half board accommodation with dinners as specified.

NEW: TWIN CENTRES p98 The 2012 brochure has a dedicated section for combining the Persian Gulf with exotic destinations in Africa and the Indian Ocean. The Persian Gulf has some of the world’s most luxurious hotels, famed for their style and opulance. For a complete contrast, Cox & Kings has designed some twin centre holidays to combine the Gulf with the unspoilt island of Zanzibar, magical Cape Town or the tropical islands of the Maldives, Seychelles or Sri Lanka. A 12-day / 10-night twin centre holiday combining three nights at the Le Meridien Mina Seyahi, Dubai with seven nights at Tamassa, Mauritius is priced from £2,145 per person. Alternatively, a 12-day / 10-night twin centre holiday with three nights at the Chedi, Muscat and seven nights at Cocoa Island in the Maldives is priced from £2,695 per person.

Please see www.coxandkings.co.uk/middle-east for the full programme to the Middle East.

For more information or images, or to request a copy of the brochure, please contact Katie Parsons on 020 7808 5694 or email katie.parsons@coxandkings.co.uk

Ends: 15 August 2011

RESERVATIONS: 0207 873 5000 / www.coxandkings.co.uk

PRESS INFORMATION: KATIE PARSONS

PRESS OFFICE: 020 7808 5694 / katie.parsons@coxandkings.co.uk

TWITTER: Follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/coxandkingsuk

BikeToursDirect, a central resource for bicycle tours in Europe, will expand its tour offerings in 2012, adding tours in at least 10 new countries on four continents—including tours in New Zealand, South Africa, Vietnam, Thailand, Mexico and Jordan.

Chattanooga, Tenn., – Based on nearly a decade of success with European bicycle tour offerings, U.S.-based BikeToursDirect will add tours in at least 10 new countries on four continents for the 2012 season, including tours in New Zealand, South Africa, Vietnam, Thailand, Mexico and Jordan. BikeToursDirect currently represents over 50 local bicycle tour companies, primarily in Europe, and offers more than 200 tours on its website, www.biketoursdirect.com.

“Europe has long been a top destination for value-oriented bicycle tourists, but local tour companies in other regions of the world also offer unique cycling experiences for riders of varying levels and budgets,” says BikeToursDirect president Jim Johnson. “We decided to expand our tour offerings based on client input and the increasing number of tours available in some of the most exotic and breathtaking locations in the world. We started offering a few tours outside Europe in 2011, and client response has been quite positive.”

Some “test” tours offered in 2011 that will continue and expand in 2012 include “South African Cycle Safari,” which travels along the Cape peninsula through private game reserves, where cyclists can see lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos and other wildlife; bicycle tours in New Zealand, which explore rainforests, glaciers, mountains, islands and more; and four tours in Vietnam, including a two-week bike and boat adventure that explores bustling cities and rural districts. Soon to be added: a Riviera Maya Bike Adventure in Mexico that takes cyclists across the Yucatan peninsula from the jungle to the Caribbean.

Some of these new tours are offered year-round, providing greater flexibility for travel planning.

Unlike many companies, BikeToursDirect doesn’t operate tours but instead represents overseas companies.

“Some of the benefits of working with locally-based tour companies include their knowledge of the local culture and unique sights, frequent tour departures, and ability to tailor tours to fit a client’s specific interests,” says Johnson.

“In some developing destinations, it’s also very helpful to have as much of the tour costs stay local.”

Local tour companies can keep their tour prices down due to the lower cost of doing business close to home and to spreading their expenses over a large client base.

Clients book tours and make all payments through BikeToursDirect, usually at the same prices charged by the tour companies.

The full roster of new tours for 2012 will be unveiled in November when BikeToursDirect launches a new website. Although 2012 information on existing tours won’t be added until the new site launches, BikeToursDirect already has details on many tours.

If you’re eager to book a tour now—or just want to start planning—feel free to contact one of BikeToursDirect’s tour experts about 2012 tours.

Visit www.biketoursdirect.com  to complete an inquiry form or call 1-877-462-2423 (toll-free) or 1-423-756-8907 (local and international).

About BikeToursDirect

BikeToursDirect, now in its eighth season, serves as a central resource for bicycle tours in Europe, representing more than 50 tour companies that offer more than 200 tours in 35 European countries and is currently expanding to Asia, Africa and Australia. BikeToursDirect offers a variety of resources to help travelers choose tours and handles the entire booking and payment process. Learn more at www.biketoursdirect.com . Telephone: 1-877-462-2423 or 1-423-756-8907. Email: info@biketoursdirect.com

Save up to £300 per person on a private 7 day ‘Historical Jordan’ tour with Audley. See the fascinating ancient city of Petra as well as Jerash – one of the region’s best preserved Roman cities. In addition you can visit Crusader Castles and Mount Nebo – where Noah is said to have died .

Book by 16th August and travel before 31st December and the trip will cost £1220 per person (usually £1580) to include return flights and transfers, 6 nights bed and breakfast in 4 star hotels (3 nights in Amman and 3 nights in Petra), a private English speaking driver throughout, all entrance fees and a private guide for Petra and Jerash. Further details from Audley on 01993 838 415 www.audleytravel.com

On the Go Tours has just released a brand new brochure featuring group tours, family holidays, local festivals, private journeys, tailor-made itineraries and unique experiences to Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, Israel, Syria and Lebanon. Take a look at what’s on offer …

Off the Beaten Track

Travel the Nile Valley to Siwa Oasis – 15 days

See the best of ancient Egypt then get off the beaten track and experience Mediterranean Alexandria & discover Siwa, with its centuries old customs & traditions. From £799 pp

Take a Petra Trek – 9 days

Check out Jordan’s Dead Sea before heading south to Wadi Dana, Wadi Araba and Dana Nature Reserve. Trek to the incredible Rose City against a backdrop of pristine and varied countryside entering Petra at the majestic Ad-Deir – the ancient city’s largest carved façade. From £1,149 pp

Join the Migration of the Berbers – 11 days

This expedition offers an incredibly rare opportunity to experience Nomadic Berber life with a family, as they make their bi-annual migration with their goats and sheep from the High Atlas to the lower Dades Valley. This really is a truly original, once in a lifetime experience! From £799 pp

Classic School Holiday adventures

Enjoy a Classic Family Adventure in Egypt – 10 days

Take the kids on holiday and learn about Pharaohs, pyramids, tombs, camel riding, boating on the Nile, village school visit and picking fruit in the local market. Combine this with plenty of free time to swim and relax and you’ve got a fun and educational holiday for all the family. From £799 pp

Exotic Morocco offers 1001 Berber Nights – 9 days

Head off on a Moroccan adventure! Marvel at the sights and sounds of Djemaa el Fna in Marrakech, trek on camels into the Sahara and camp out amongst the rolling sand dunes, discover legendary Ait Benhaddou and free time for fun at the swimming pool and relaxation. From £649 pp

Exotic Short Stays

ISRAEL: Tel Aviv & Jerusalem – 4 days

Take a break in Tel Aviv, Israel’s largest and liveliest city on the beautiful Mediterranean Coast and explore the sites of holy Jerusalem, one of the world’s oldest and most revered cities. From £499 pp

LEBANON: Beirut & Bekaa Valley – 4 days

Beirut ‘the Paris of the Middle East’ is back on the tourist map! Explore Lebanon’s glamorous coastal capital, discover the beautiful Jeita Grottos and the colossal Roman ruins of Baalbek. From £549 pp

MOROCCO: Marrakech & ait benhaddou – 4 days

Step into an outlandish world of snake charmers and soothsayers, vibrant souks and ancient kasbahs in captivating Marrakech, then head to the Atlas Mountains on this exotic city break! From 479 pp

A classic Middle Eastern mezze

Pyramids, Petra, Promised Lands – 18 days

Explore the highlights of Egypt, Jordan and the Promised lands of Israel – neighbouring countries, steeped in history. From the pharaoh’s greatest accomplishment – the grand Pyramids of Giza, to the architectural feat of the Nabataeans in Petra and the most sacred of biblical sites in Jerusalem and Bethlehem… join us on a journey of epic proportion. From £1,499 pp

Going Green …

Eco Egypt – 10 Days

Combine touring at some of Egypt’s best-loved sights and the chance to contribute to the environment and people of Egypt, with special initiatives such as spring-cleaning the Nile and lending a helping hand in Cairo. From £399 pp

Festivals and Events
Have a look at some the amazing FESTIVALS & EVENTS we offer around the world

Key Tours is offering savings on two popular Israel and Jordan Vacations. Clients can save $250 per couple on the eight-day Holy Land Tour, a fully escorted tour that visits Tel Aviv, Caesrea, Megiddo, Haifa, Acre, Tiberias, Capernaum, Banias Springs, Golan Heights, Nazareth, Beit Shean, Jerusalem, the Dead Sea and Masada. The tour includes first class or superior first class hotels for seven nights, breakfast and dinner daily, extensive sightseeing with entrance fees included as well as arrival and departure transfers.

Clients can also save $300 per couple on the eight-day Best of Jordan Tour, which visits Amman, Desert Castles, Jerash. Ajloun, Mabada, Mt. Nebo, Kerak, Petra, Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea. The tour includes seven nights at superior first class or deluxe hotels; arrival and departure transfers; transportation by air conditioned private car, English-speaking guide as well as expert local guides at the local sightseeing visits. Entrance fees and many meals included. To save, reservations should be made prior to Aug. 15 and are valid for departures after Sept. 1.

Key Tours International is a wholesale travel company based in Fairfax, Va., that specializes in travel to Europe and the Mediterranean. In business for 19 years, Key Tours offers modular based vacation programs with flexibility. For more information, visit www.keytours.com