Jetsettersblog

Discovery Fishing for Angling Visitors

Discovery at Marigot Bay on the scenic west coast of St Lucia is offering a special summer package which is sure to reel in fishing enthusiasts.

During the summer months, the waters surrounding this eastern Caribbean gem become calmer and clearer as the tradewinds diminish and the temperatures get warmer.

They also become fertile fishing grounds with an abundance of Blue Marlin, Sailfish, Tuna, Wahoo, Kingfish and Dorado.

Taking advantage of the ideal fishing conditions, anglers can now enjoy a four night stay at the beautiful five star Discovery at Marigot Bay with the added bonus of two exciting sport and game fishing excursions on a private fishing boat.

You don’t have to be a professional to have fun… If you’ve never fished before, don’t worry, our experienced fishing boat crew will be happy to show you the ropes. Meanwhile, experienced anglers can come and enjoy the thrill of new fishing grounds.

What’s included:

+ Four nights accommodation in a Resort View room or a Resort View Suite for two persons including all taxes at the luxurious Discovery at Marigot Bay resort

+ Full American breakfast each morning

+ Airport transfers

+ Two, half day Sport Fishing outings for two persons (this includes Captain, crew, fishing equipment, soft drinks, beers, rum punch and water on board. Max four per boat)

Total Cost

Resort View Room: US$2091
Resort View Suite: US$2655
Extra adult sharing (in suite only, sofa bed): US$580 (includes breakfast and fishing) Child under 12 sharing (in suite only): US$290

Additional Night Rate

Resort View Room Accommodation US$264.00
Resort View Suite Accommodation US$405.00

Valid to November 21, 2008

For more information, visit the Discovery website:

www.discoverystlucia.com or telephone: +1 758 458 5300

Discovery at Marigot Bay blends into its beautiful surroundings enhancing the natural loveliness of the bay described as “the most beautiful in the Caribbean” by novelist James A Michener. Opened November 30, 2006, the luxury Discovery resort provides guests with every possible modern facility. The 57 suites (half with private plunge pools) and 35 rooms feature spacious verandahs affording stunning views of the bay below. The interiors are a stylish combination of contemporary chic, state of the art fittings and Caribbean pizzazz. The world class Lapli Spa, fitness centre, watersports, marina, shopping, bars and restaurants make Discovery at Marigot Bay the ultimate holiday experience. Discovery is a member of Leading Small Hotels of the World.

LIAT Flights To Montserrat

The Government of Montserrat has agreed a contract with Caribbean airline LIAT to operate a new scheduled air service between Antigua and Montserrat, beginning on July 1, 2008.

Catching a 20-minute flight from Antigua is currently the only way to reach Montserrat, other than by a private boat or aircraft, since Montserrat’s Gerald’s Airport opened in July 2005.

The LIAT flights will replace the current air service operated by Winair, which will end on June 30, 2008.

LIAT (1974) Limited has entered into a code share agreement with Carib Aviation Ltd on the Antigua - Montserrat route, which will also allow customers to connect in Antigua to or from other destinations on its network.

There will be a minimum of three return flights a day between Antigua and Montserrat during the low season, but this is likely to increase at high seasons such as Christmas. Carib Aviation will also schedule additional services to cater to un-seasonal peak demand for travel to Montserrat.

One way adult fares will cost between US$65 and US$85. This price is inclusive of fuel and insurance surcharges but not taxes and levies imposed by Governments and airport authorities. Flights can be booked online at www.fly-liat.com.

Day tourists who book with approved tour operators will be offered a net fare of US$100 for a return journey, again inclusive of fuel and insurance surcharges but not taxes and levies. This special rate is expected to attract an increasing amount of day-trippers from Antigua, many of whom are interested in visiting Montserrat to see its active volcano and other natural attractions.

The new agreement will make island-hopping within the Caribbean much easier as passengers flying connecting to or from LIAT or Carib Aviation in Antigua will be checked straight through from origin to destination, avoiding the inconvenience of having to clear Immigration and Customs in Antigua.

The development of Montserrat’s new airport and the re-commencement of flights from Antigua in 2005 have played a vital role in boosting the island’s tourism industry in recent years. After Montserrat’s volcano rumbled into life in 1995, the former airport was shut due to its proximity to the activity, limiting access to the island.

Gerald’s Airport is situated in the north of Montserrat, which remains green, beautiful and largely unaffected by the ongoing volcanic activity. Whilst the island was previously off the radar of tour operators, around a dozen have begun offering holidays on the island since the airport’s opening three years ago.

Denmark’s Regional Cities Offer Festive Flavour

Known throughout Europe for their vibrant festivals and celebrations, Denmark’s regional cities of Aalborg, Aarhus and Odense certainly offer plenty of excellent opportunities to join in a great selection of diverse and entertaining festivities.

Easily accessed by a short flight from the UK, each city offers a multitude of superb attractions to suite all ages and tastes, in addition to a wide range of festivals, making them ideal for a short city break with all the fun of the fair.

Covering everything from international Jazz festivals to Opera and Hip-Hop, traditional viking celebrations and re-enactments, the largest carnival in Northern Europe, Arts & Crafts and spectacular Christmas markets, you’ll find plenty of interesting reasons for visiting each regional city again and again.

Highlights from the festival calendar include:

ARTS & CRAFTS

DOK # 1 Arts & Crafts Fair, 5 – 6 September 2008, Aalborg

Taking place in the new Toldbodplads in Aalborg, DOK # 1 is a new, ambitious design, arts and crafts market, representing Danish designers and craftsmen working in the fields of pottery, jewelry, glassware, textiles and design. www.dok1.dk

KIC - Arts and Crafts Fair, 7 – 9 November 2008, Aarhus

KiC is the largest censored fair for arts and crafts in Denmark. KiC is held every year in the centre of Århus. Participants come from Denmark, England, Germany and Holland, and work within the disciplines of jewellery, textiles, glass, ceramics, and mixed media. Each year, craftsmen from foreign countries are invited to exhibit their work at KiC as well. DKK40.

www.kic-aarhus.dk

BEER

October Festival, 2 – 4 October 2008, Aalborg

Aalborg’s C.W. Obels Plads is always a lovely place to visit and even more so in October when the annual beer festival takes place in a large marquee in the middle of the square. Fitted with benches and tables, sample the best of Denmark’s beer and join in the festivities.

http://www.soegaardsbryghus.dk/default.asp

CARNIVAL

Carnival in Aalborg, May, 2009 (dates TBC) (Ideal for all the family)

Aalborg - a middle-sized city in Northern Denmark - plays host to the largest carnival in Northern Europe every year attracting over 100,000 people both as participants in the parade and as spectators. Joined by carnival groups from around the world, the celebrations span over a week offering an excellent opportunity to experience the great diversity and uniqueness of carnival traditions. Following a specific theme each year, the main carnival parade takes place on the final Saturday with a vibrant parade through the streets, culminating in the ‘Battle of Carnival Bands’, DJ’s, dance acts and fireworks in the Kildenparken. Entrance to the Kildeparken is DKK 100.

www.karnevaliaalborg.dk/english/jetcom.htm

CHRISTMAS

Christmas in Den Gamle By, 22 November - 30 December 2008, Aarhus

(Ideal for all the family)

The open air museum of The Old Town is made up of 75 different period houses. During the Christmas period the streets are decorated beautifully with 16 of the houses displaying more than 35 different Christmas exhibitions. It all adds up to an exciting atmosphere with a true Christmassy feeling, where the houses come alive with period-dressed personnel. The Christmas market takes place every weekend in December. DKK90

www.dengamleby.dk/english.htm

H. C. Andersen Christmas Market, 29 – 30 November 2008, 6 – 7 December 2008, Odense (Ideal for all the family)

The old part of Odense where Hans Christian Andersen’s childhood home lies, forms the setting of a period Christmas market with all the fun of the fair, illuminations, merry-go-round and stalls selling all sorts of goodies. A Hans Christian Andersen Parade performs daily with the winter show.

www.hcajulemarkedet.dk

Christmas Market, 23 November - 25 December 2008, Aalborg (Ideal for all the family)

Sailing by ship direct from Greenland, Father Christmas is scheduled to land on the quayside opposite Aalborghus Castle to launch the festivities for the annual Aalborg Christmas Market which includes Christmas theatre, concerts, carols and a large colourful market where shops are open until 10pm leading up until Christmas.

www.visitaalborg.com

CULTURE & MUSIC

Nibe Festival, 2 – 7 July 2008, Nibe, Near Aalborg

Just 20 minutes from Aalborg, Nibe Festival has been acknowledged as one of Denmark’s best music festivals. Set in the beautiful Skal Forest on the outskirts of Nibe, it offers 4 days of great music and atmosphere. This year’s offerings include Thomas Buttenshcon, Rugsted & Kreuzfeldt, Beth Hart, Suspekt, Blue

Foundation, Michael Falch & Boat Man Love. Visit this link.

www.nibefestival.dk

Aarhus International Jazz Festival, 12- 19 July 2008, Aarhus

Summer in Aarhus is not really summer without Aarhus International Jazz Festival. Now in its 20th year, the festival includes over 200 performances over the eight day period, covering a wealth of different jazz artists and varieties: from international stars to young local jazz musicians, from traditional Dixieland jazz to electronic experimentation and from world music to popular Danish singers. Many of the concerts are free, and a variety of the city’s many music venues are involved together with street corners and squares all over town. Visit this link.

Opera at Rebild Bakker, 10 August 2008, Aalborg

Combine arias and picnic at nature’s finest concert hall with a walk in the forest at the annual open air opera concert in Rebild Bakker. Soloist and chorus from Den Jyske Opera perform highlights from well-known operas and operettas, accompanied by Aalborg’s Symphony Orchestra in a beautiful outdoor setting.

www.operairebild.dk

Opera in the Meadow, 17 August 2008, Odense

Exactly what is says, an open air concert in picturesque meadow surrounds featuring extracts from the upcoming opera and concert season in Odense Concert Hall. Presented by the Odense Symphonic Orchestra and professional soloists. Pick up some goodies in the vast array of Odense’s specialty shops and enjoy a musical feast.

Visit this link.

Aarhus Festival Week, 19 August – 7 September 2008, Aarhus

Of major importance to all of Scandinavia, involving all of Aarhus, this festival showcases theatre performances, concerts, opera, ballet, music, sport as well as many other activities. Working to theme, this year the city will be treated to “Århus Open City”.

www.aarhusfestuge.dk  or visit this link.

‘Aarhus Took It’ Hip Hop Festival, 2 – 4 October 2008, Aarhus

Scandinavia’s largest Hip Hop Festival, ‘Aarhus Took It’ takes place for the 8th time at the Train music venue. Featuring top international artists, new exciting Danish names and workshops, it offers three days of vibrant formidable hip hop.

www.aarhustookit.dk

Night of Culture 2008, 10 October 2008, Aarhus/Aalborg

(Ideal for all the family)

‘Night of Culture’ is held in several of the major towns in Denmark including the cities of Aarhus and Aalborg. Taking place from 6.00pm to 12 midnight, it offers pass holders an exciting evening of cultural exploration where they can visit buildings and institutions which are normally not open to the public. The programme includes all the major museums and exhibition halls, churches, libraries, schools and organisations. During the evening, public spaces are transformed into stages for musical and theatre performances, poetry readings and art exhibitions. Night of Culture badges are available from participating museums and libraries, tourist offices and at train stations. It also covers free public transport in the city for the night. Children under the age of 12 enter for free. Passes cost DKK75. www.kulturnataarhus.dk, www.kulturnatten.com (Aalborg)

International Days of Blues, 6 – 8 November 2008, Odense

Odense International Days of Blues features local and international artists in one of Odense’s small charming music stages called Magasinet.

www.bluesdage.dk

Aalborg Opera Festival, March 2009

Inspite of Aalborg’s rather small size (about 150,000 inhabitants), the city is host to the only Opera Festival in Denmark. You can witness some of the most intimate concerts and quirky happenings around the streets of the city, in offices and in cosy cafes. The whole of Aalborg is singing Opera during this time as it takes over workplaces, restaurants and balconies in the streets, museums, libraries and smaller music venues as well as the large concert halls. With a number of major performances, highlights last year included the great operas of Faust, Eugen Onegin and Madame Butterfly as well as solos from world famous Danish Wagner-hero Stig Fogh Andersen and the Swedish soprano Iréne Theorin.

www.visitaalborg.com

SPOT Festival, June 2009, Aarhus (dates TBC)

SPOT Festival aims to support and promote upcoming bands and artists both nationally and internationally. With over 116 bands participating in the 2008 festival, music is set to have the university city of Aarhus rocking. The festival is performed on 8 different stages in and around the Musikhuset Aarhus.

www.spotfestival.dk

FAMILY FUN

Open Stable Doors, 21/09/2008, Aarhus/Aalborg/Odense

(Ideal for all the family)

On the third Sunday of September, 60-odd farms open the stable doors to the public. Come and see how farming is done these days and get the opportunity to meet cattle, pigs, hens and all the other inhabitants of a farm!
Participating farms can be found on the website www.aabentlandbrug.dk

Robots at Play, September 2009, Odense (dates TBC) (Ideal for all the family)

The biannual Robot Festival covers everything from robot art performed by international artists, robots made from scrap, robot movies and many other amazing interactive experiences.

www.robotsatplay.dk

FILM

Odense International Film festival, 19 – 24 August 2008

Odense Film Festival is Denmark’s international film festival for short and documentary films. The festival shows an exciting programme of the world’s best short films and the best of this year’s Danish short & documentary films with special programmes for children and teenagers.

www.filmfestival.dk

FLOWER

Flowerfestival, 13 – 17 August 2008, Odense (Ideal for all the family)

Flowers, flowers everywhere! See, feel and smell the more than 180.000 flowers, plants and vegetables arranged in various fanciful tableaux and arrangements according to a specific theme that changes every year.

www.blomsterfestival.dk

HISTORY

Viking Theatre at Lindholm Høje, 17 – 29 June 2008, Aalborg (Ideal for all the family)

Every year in Aalborg, past history is reviewed through the great Viking dramas. The plays are performed on Northern Europe’s largest Viking burial site, Lindholm Høje with each play illustrating the forefathers’ life from about 1000 years ago - mixed with modern North Jutlandic humour and imagination. DKK80.

www.LindholmVikingespil.dk

Viking City Market, 26 June to 28 August 2008, Saturday & Sunday, Aarhus (Ideal for all the family) Get a taste for Viking history this summer in Aarhus with the re-opening of the newly refurbished Viking Museum and Viking city-market.

www.visitaarhus.com

Aarhus Medieval Market, 17 – 20 July 2008, Aarhus (Ideal for all the family)

Experience Aarhus in the year 1457 when the city hosts its Midsummer Festival. Enjoy the atmosphere at the market with the smell of roasted pig and the sight and sounds of swordsmen duelling, musicians playing and fire dancers performing. Take a stroll down the market street, have a freshly baked pancake or local sausage washed down with a good beer and let the kids have fun playing medieval games. DKK50/adult.

http://aamm.dk/en/

Moesgård Viking Moot, 26 – 27 July 2008, Aarhus (Ideal for all the family)

The Viking Moot offers a wealth of activities with archers, warriors and horsemen showing off their skills. Crossing swords in formidable battles, incited by a cheering crowd, horsemen on Icelandic horses ride in procession as tasty authentic Viking fare cooks over open fires tempting visitors to quickly become acquainted with the Viking cuisine.

www.moesmus.dk

Getting there…

Sterling Airlines has direct daily flights from Gatwick (www.sterling.com) to Aalborg and Billund airports with easy connections to Aalborg, Aarhus and Odense. Fares start from as little as £12.50 one-way. Other deals are also available through Lastminute.com as per the following URLs: www.lastminute.com/aalborg,

www.lastminute.com/aarhus  and
www.lastminute.com/odense

For more information on each city visit:
Aalborg: http://www.visitaalborg.com
Aarhus: http://www.visitaarhus.com
Odense: http://www.visitodense.com

More details on Denmark on www.visitdenmark.com

See Britain The Free Way

With a recession on the horizon, millions of Brits have had to cancel their summer holiday this year, in order to make ends meets; but it doesn’t have to be gloom and doom as Travelodge has searched the country to find lots of places you can visit for FREE - In its new guide ‘See Britain The Free Way’.

The guide highlights places of interest that you can visit across the UK for free and by booking a Travelodge room for just £29 you can take a short break on a budget. It’s the ideal way of keeping the kids entertained over the holidays or why not treat your partner to a romantic break without breaking the bank.

See below for ‘See Britain The Free Way’ guide. You can download it for free at www.travelodge.co.uk it’s located within the news and offers section.

SEE BRITAIN THE FREE WAY GUIDE

SCOTLAND

Glasgow City Chambers

In the very heart of Glasgow stands one of the city’s most important and prestigious buildings – the City Chambers. A grand and imposing edifice overlooking George Square, the City Chambers is an impressive symbol of Glasgow’s political strength and historical wealth. Completed in 1888, the City Chambers has for over a hundred years been the headquarters of successive councils serving the City of Glasgow. Take a guided tour around the chambers and learn all about the Glasgow’s political history.

Location: City Chambers, George Square, Glasgow, G2 1DU

Opening times: Tours are conducted twice per day at 10.30am and 2.30pm

More information: Call 0141 287 2000 or visit this link.   Nearest Travelodge: Stay at the Glasgow Central Travelodge, 5-11 Hill Street, Glasgow, G3 6RP from as little as £29 per night, for the best deals log on to www.travelodge.co.uk

Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA), Glasgow

GoMA is the second most visited contemporary art gallery outside London, offering a thought-provoking programme of temporary exhibitions and workshops. GoMA displays work by local and international artists as well as addressing contemporary social issues through its major biannual projects. GoMA opened in 1996 and is housed in an elegant, neo-classical building in the heart of Glasgow city centre.

Location: Royal Exchange Square, Glasgow, G1 3AH

Opening Times: Monday to Wednesday 10am to 5pm, Thursday 10am to 8pm, Saturday 10am to 5pm, Friday and Sunday 11am to 5pm

More information: Call 0141 229 1996

Nearest Travelodge: Stay at the Glasgow Central Travelodge, 5-11 Hill Street, Glasgow, G3 6RP from as little as £29 per night, for the best deals log on to www.travelodge.co.uk

Museum of Scotland - Edinburgh

The Museum of Scotland building is a landmark in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. Collections at the museum tell the story of Scotland - its land, its people and culture. For generations, the museum has collected key exhibits from all over Scotland and beyond. From Viking brooches, Pictish stones, ancient chessmen, medieval oak carvings, ornate quaichs to Queen Mary’s clarsach. But that’s not all, you can also meet Dolly the sheep, design a robot, test drive a Formula One car, power up a generator or blast off into outer space.  Visit the website.

Location: Chambers Street Edinburgh, EH1 1JF

Opening Times: 10am – 5pm

More Information: www.nms.ac.uk or call 0131 225 7534

Nearest Travelodge: Stay at the Edinburgh Haymarket Travelodge. The grade II listed building is perfectly situated for exploring everything Edinburgh has to offer, for the best rates visit www.travelodge.co.uk

Museum of Childhood - Edinburgh

Described as ‘the noisiest museum in the world’, the Museum of Childhood is a favourite with adults and children alike. It is a treasure house, crammed full of objects telling of childhood, past and present. The museum opened in 1955, the brainchild of town councillor Patrick Murray, and was the first museum in the world to specialise in the history of childhood.

There are toys and games of all kinds from many parts of the world, ranging from dolls and teddy bears to train sets and tricycles. Listen to the children chanting multiplication tables in the 1930s schoolroom. Watch the street games of Edinburgh children of the 1950s, and find out how children have been brought up, dressed and educated in decades gone by.

Location: 42 High Street, Royal Mile

Opening Times: Monday - Saturday 10am - 5pm, Sunday 12 noon - 5pm

More information: Call 0131 529 4142 or visit www.cac.org.uk/venues/museum_childhood.htm

Nearest Travelodge: Stay at the Edinburgh Haymarket Travelodge. The grade II listed building is perfectly situated for exploring everything Edinburgh has to offer, for the best rates visit www.travelodge.co.uk

Yellow Craig Beach – Edinburgh

Take in the spectacular views over the Firth of Forth to Fife and the island of Fidra from this picturesque, long sandy beach. Extremely popular with families and dog walkers alike, there’s plenty to see and lots of room for the kids to run about, fly a kite or enjoy a picnic. Make sure you take your bucket and spade.

Location: Yellowcraig beach is east of Edinburgh, just before North Berwick on the A158.

More information: www.edinburgh.org/beaches

Nearest Travelodge: Stay at the Edinburgh Haymarket Travelodge. The grade II listed building is perfectly situated for exploring everything Edinburgh has to offer, for the best rates visit www.travelodge.co.uk

Balmedie Country Park

Balmedie Country Park, just north of Aberdeen, is within part of a dune system that stretches 14 miles from Aberdeen to just north of the mouth of the River Ythan at Newburgh. The very long, wide beach comprises clean golden sand and is bordered by a substantial area of grassy sand dunes. There is ample parking within the Country Park with wooden walkways across the sands and streams, picnic areas with barbeques and a swing park with a fishing theme to keep the kids amused.

Location: Balmedie Country Park, AB23 8XG

Timing: Country Park open during daylight hours every day of the year

More information: www.aberdeen.gov.uk/countryparks

Nearest Travelodge: Aberdeen Central, 9 Bridge Street, Aberdeen AB11 6JL

NORTH EAST

The Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art

Housed in a landmark industrial building on the south bank of the River Tyne in Gateshead, BALTIC is the biggest gallery of its kind in the world – presenting a dynamic, diverse and international programme of contemporary visual art. BALTIC has no permanent collection, providing instead an ever-changing calendar of exhibitions and activities that give a unique and compelling insight into contemporary artistic practice. The BALTIC programme ranges from blockbuster exhibitions to innovative new work and projects created by artists working within the local community.

Location: Gateshead Quays South Shore Road Gateshead NE8 3BA

Opening Times: Open Daily 10am – 6pm except Tuesdays 10.30am – 6.30pm.

More Information: Visit www.balticmill.com   or call 0191 478 1810

Nearest Travelodge: Stay at the Newcastle Silverlink Travelodge from as little as £29, for the best deals log onto www.travelodge.co.uk

Leazes Park/Exhibition Park

Take a picnic to Leazes Park or Exhibition Park. Both are situated in the middle of town. Leazes Park is the oldest city park in Newcastle and the perfect place to recharge your batteries after a hectic day in the city. Exhibition Park got its name from the Jubilee Exhibition of 1887 and includes a boating lake, crazy golf, a skate park and playgrounds. On the way, visit St Nicholas Cathedral church which dates back to the late 15th century.

More Information:

Tynemouth Long Sands

Grab you bucket and spade and hit the beach. Tynemouth Long Sands is an award winning seaside beach, with long stretches of sand. The golden sands of Tynemouth Long Sands stretch for half a mile from the village of Cullercoats at the Northern end to the rocky outcrops guarding King Edwards Bay at the southern end. At low tide several patches or rocks are accessible on the sands themselves. These together with the larger outcrop of rock at the Cullercoats end provide endless rock pools in which to catch crabs or spot sea anemones. Perfect for a game of beach volleyball, or hit the waves and try your skills on a surfboard

Location: Tynemouth, Tyne and Wear

More information: Call 0191 200 5162

Nearest Travelodge: Stay at the Newcastle Silverlink Travelodge from as little as £29, for the best deals log onto www.travelodge.co.uk

NORTH WEST

Honister Slate Mine - The Lake District.

Honister Slate Mine is the last working slate mine in England and offers guided mine tours deep underground. Explore the awesome caverns and learn how the Victorian miners worked using hand tools by candle light.

Location: Honister Slate Mine ,Honister Pass, Borrowdale, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5XN

Opening times: Daily from 10am

More information: www.honister.com  or 01768 777 230

Nearest Travelodge: Stay at our Cockermouth travelodge, Europe Way, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 0DP from as little at £29, for the best deals see www.travelodge.co.uk

Loweswater, Lake District

Loweswater is a small scattered hamlet situated between the lakes Loweswater and Crummock Water. There are breathtaking views to be had from the surrounding fells down onto the quiet and peaceful lake. The view extends from the Solway Coast and Scottish hills to the north right around to the Vale of Lorton and heights of Grasmoor and Robinson. Make the most of a peaceful walk, off the tourist trail.

Location: Loweswater, Lake District, Cumbria

More information: www.visitcumbria.com

Nearest Travelodge: Penrith, A66, Redhills, Penrith, Cumbria CA11 0DT

Stanley Park - Blackpool

Discover a secret garden, where colourful floral carpets have been laid across nature’s floors. Stanley Park, a little more than a mile from the noisier coastal trappings, is Blackpool’s own green oasis. Stroll through pathways galore and relax in its many and various quiet corners. Watch the fountains in the Italian Gardens, admire the perfumed glory of the Rose Gardens, or check out the species growing in the colourful conservatories. Stanley Park covers 256 acres of gardens, with bowling greens, tennis courts, a children’s play area, model village and a boating lake.

Location: West Park Road, Blackpool

Opening Times: Daily

More information: Visit www.blackpooltourism.com

Nearest Travelodge: Stay at the new Blackpool Southshore Travelodge, Seasiders Way

Blackpool FY1 6JJ from as little as £29, for the best deals log onto www.travelodge.co.uk

Blackpool Beach

Pack you bucket and spade, and a picnic and head to one of the most famous beaches in England! Take a stroll along the promenade and take in the great British seaside. The Pleasure Beach is free to enter but all rides and rollercoaster’s carry charges.

Continue reading See Britain The Free Way…

What’s New in North Lake Tahoe This Summer

(NORTH LAKE TAHOE, California/Nevada) –North Lake Tahoe continues to evolve and change, without losing what makes the area so special, to meet the needs of today’s travelers.

On the museum front, the Maritime Museum in Homewood is set to reopen in late May in a new 5,800-square-foot facility with interactive exhibits, children’s visiting area and community gathering area. The museum, reminiscent of an old boathouse, showcases the history of boating in Lake Tahoe. Several historical watercraft, including the Shanghai, an 1890s excursion, and Redskin, a rare 1912 Canadian-built displacement boat, are on display.

In Tahoe City, the Tahoe City Field Lab, also known as the Historic Fish Hatchery, is nearing completion of a $3 million historical renovation, with a grand reopening scheduled for mid-August. Future plans for the site include restoration of the surrounding three acres and an interpretive education nature center, demonstration garden of various native Lake Tahoe plants in both upland and wetland areas and an interpretive kiosk. The kiosk will be attached to the historic hatchery and will provide public viewing into the main great room. Tours of the building will be regularly available. Interpretive elements include historic uses of the building for fish rearing, life cycle of fish and ongoing research.

Travelers have never experienced a Farmer’s Market like the ones in North Lake Tahoe. Here, visitors have access to fresh, high-quality agricultural products direct from the producer in a vibrant marketplace located lakeside. Whether you’re shopping Tahoe City, every Thursday from May 22 to October 16, or Kings Beach, every Tuesday from June 3 to August 26, small-scale farmers have set up shop adjacent to the country’s largest alpine lake, making for a scenic, “Tahoe” experience. Truckee will also offer a Farmer’s Market, every Tuesday at the Truckee River Regional Park from June 3 through September 30.

Located in Tahoe Vista at the North Tahoe Regional Park, the new North Tahoe Disc Golf Course is a fun and challenging 18-hole course that provides a variety of shots that complement nearly every style of play. The last nine holes were finished last fall. The course is an example of a highly-successful volunteer project and was completely built with community donations and hours. Travelers can purchase their own discs at the Sports Exchange in Truckee. Also new at North Tahoe Regional Park is an all-weather soccer field used for pick-games, the American Youth Soccer Organization and adult leagues. It can also be booked for soccer tournaments.

For families looking for fun and learning, the Tahoe Center for Environmental Sciences offers self-guided and docent-led tours, hands-on activities and a monthly lecture series. Here, visitors can take a 3-D virtual reality flight through Lake Tahoe, peek through a microscope and view tiny aquatic creatures and learn how scientists study water quality. The nearby North Lake Tahoe Demonstration Garden, which promotes environmentally sensitive landscaping practices to reduce erosion and improve the clarity of the lake, offers “Green Thumbs Thursdays” June through August. This free gardening class is open to the public and provides hands-on experience working side-by-side with master gardeners.

Off the lake, the Village at Squaw Valley in Olympic Valley recently welcomed two new eco-friendly shops, Maud Olson and Patagonia. Maud Olson Eco-Friendly Clothing is proof that fashion and sustainable living can go hand-in-hand, and features a line of high-end apparel, such as hand-knit baby alpaca sweaters, mittens and gloves by Rachel Comey, as well as a wide selection of the Loomstate’s high-fashion jeans, hoodies and t-shirts made from organic cotton. Patagonia, who leverages their resources to create a healthier planet, opened a new location at the base of Squaw Valley and offers a great selection of outdoor wear and accessories for women, men and children. Nearby, the Sunrise Biscuit Company has set up shop in the lobby of the Cable Car Building, formerly occupied by Headwall Café. The popular eatery features grilled paninis, soups and daily specials. Locals traditionally go for the biscuits and graving - all prepared with less packaging waste, along with their locally roasted fair-trade coffee.

The Village at Northstar in Truckee also has expanded its retail and restaurant offerings. A must is Mikuni Japanese Restaurant and Sushi Bar for its renowned Japanese cuisine and fresh sushi creations. The kids will enjoy Ambassador Toys, which strives to promote understanding and respect for cultures around the world through the beauty and creativity of toys, books and music. The Tahoe Creamery’s motto, ‘Keepin’ It Pure’, might be the mantra for the entire North Lake Tahoe destination. Here, visitors will find natural, premium, gourmet ice cream.

In regard to lodging, the Ritz Carlton Highlands, which broke ground in 2006, is on schedule to be completed in fall of 2009. The ski-in, ski-out 173-room upscale property, situated mid-mountain at Northstar-at-Tahoe in Truckee, is Lake Tahoe’s first-ever, five-star caliber hotel. A 20,000-square-foot lavish spa, offering mountain views, will also be built onsite.

The historic Crystal Bay casino corridor is poised for a significant transformation, with plans for an upscale destination resort on 14 acres that would include 200 hotel rooms and nearly 180 fractional-ownership or whole-ownership condominiums. Also planned is a village with restaurants and shops, a 10,000-square-foot casino, “pocket” parks and family entertainment centers. Pending permits and environmental reviews, developer Boulder Bay LLC plans to begin construction mid-2009 and complete work of the $250-million project by 2014.

More rooms are planned for Truckee as construction is set to begin in June on a 109-room Marriott Residence Inn off Highway 80 near Donner Pass, with the hotel opening mid-summer of 2009. There is also a small, 52-room boutique hotel in the planning stages in the rail yard development outside of downtown Truckee.

JMA Ventures, the new owners of Homewood Mountain Resort and Alpine Meadows Ski Resort, have a Truckee hotel in the works. Early plans for their Hotel Avery include a restaurant and condominiums on its Bridge Street location along the Truckee River.

JMA has even bigger plans for Homewood Mountain Resort, including a quaint pedestrian village, mid-mountain lodge, gondola and underground parking. The village, to be located at the north base, will house an ice cream shop, hardware store, market, 50-room hotel, spa and 40-condo complex. Also scheduled to be included are an ice rink, swimming pool and amphitheatre.

North Lake Tahoe is a 45-minute drive from the Reno Tahoe International Airport, two hours from Sacramento International Airport and just over three hours from San Francisco International Airport. For lodging reservations, recreation and event details, call North Lake Tahoe at 1-877-949-3296 or visit www.GoTahoeNorth.com

 Visitor information centers are located at 380 North Lake Boulevard in Tahoe City and 969 Tahoe Boulevard in Incline Village. The North Lake Tahoe Visitors Bureaus, Incline Village Crystal Bay Visitors Bureau and the North Lake Tahoe Resort Association, work together to promote North Lake Tahoe as a premier, year-round destination.

Hong Kong Shopping, Events for Olympics

For the 12 weeks starting from July 1 covering the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Hong Kong will feature food and shopping events to attract Olympic visitors. Retailers, hotels, tourist attractions and restaurants are offering discounts and incentives. Twelve major shopping malls and department stores will offer promotional events and special surprises – “shopping hotpicks” – in the latest products from fashion and beauty, jewelry and watches, consumer electronics and Chinese goods.

Entertaining shows and exhibitions will also enliven Hong Kong shopping experiences. Visa is running a ‘Million Dollar Travel Bonanza’ Lucky Draw with prizes worth more than HK$1 million ($130,000), open to all Visa cardholders that is applicable to all transactions in Hong Kong during the event period. Cardholders are entitled to one entry for every HK$500 spent ($64).

See www.visa.com.hk for registration and details. The “Explore Hong Kong Stamp Rally” rewards visitors who collect three stickers from three participating spots on their Stamp Rally Pass, visitors will earn a special gift.

The Olympic Piazza opens from July 25 to Aug. 24 at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre where visitors can watch Olympic themed activities and watch the Games from Beijing telecast live on huge screens. The Equestrian Games take place in Hong Kong Aug. 9 to 21, while the Paralympic Games will be held in Hong Kong Sept. 6 to 17.

Visit www.DiscoverHongKong.com

Olympics Is A Go, Qianmen Street Is Not

Restored Qing Dynasty street not ready for Olympic tourists

BEIJING — Beijing planners lifted the veil Tuesday on the city’s newest tourist attraction — a fully refurbished Qing dynasty street - then admitted that the project would not be open in time for the Olympics.

Beijing city and local banks have poured 9.2 billion yuan (1.3 billion dollars) into restoration work on Qianmen Street, one of the capital’s oldest neighbourhoods, with the goal of restoring it to its former glory a century ago during the Qing dynasty (1644-1911).

“It won’t be finished in time for the Olympics,” Tian Yun, chairman of the real estate developers working on the project told visiting journalists. “But tourists will still be able to come and have a look.”

Qianmen Street runs down Beijing’s historic central axis just south of Tianamen Square and the Forbidden City. Further to the north stands the new National Stadium, the main arena for the August 8-24 Olympics.

The road has been torn up and replaced with paving stones to make up a pedestrian street, with cars giving way to a tramway that has been restored after it was discontinued in the 1960s.

Qianmen Street reached its peak of importance in pre-revolutionary times as a commercial, theatre and entertainment district but fell on hard times in recent decades because of over population and inner city decay.

The project to renovate the area was launched in May last year and newspapers reported at the time that the goal was to finish it in time to attract Olympic tourists.

Up to 500,000 foreign visitors are expected to be in Beijing during the Games but Tian denied that a deadline for opening the street had been missed.

“We are here to do a good job, not to rush the job for anybody,” he said, adding that he could not say when the project would be completed.

Critics have charged that the street has been turned into a Disney-style version of old China that bears little resemblance to reality.

“This is history as it never was,” said Ed Lanfranco, a writer who has monitored the changing face of Beijing for the past 20 years.

But Tian said restoration work had been conducted using old photographs and written records and that no buildings of historic importance had been demolished.

Costa Smeralda on Sardinia’s Emerald Coast

Whether you choose to land in Sardinia by private jet or commercial airliner, your unforgettable journey to Costa Smeralda begins the moment you touch down in this magical island destination off Italy’s coast. The breathtaking emerald-hued waters of the Mediterranean shores here simply demanded its Italian name, Costa Smeralda.

Punctuated by bright white, sugar sand and unique granite outcroppings, this family of four ultra-exclusive Starwood Luxury Collection resorts offers the complete range of getaway personalities. Upon your desire or whim, choose from complete and secure seclusion, private pools and beaches, and every imaginable amenities brought chair or bedside … to the “see and be seen” excitement of haute couture, world-recognized entertainment, chic shopping and elite gastronomic adventures on the beach, by the pool or aboard the world class yachts that dot the harbor.

Climatic wind conditions permit picture perfect enjoyment of the island’s sun, sea and surf for only a few brief months per year, which helps keep Costa Smeralda’s secret safe with those in the know. Early fall is the perfect time to take advantage of idyllic weather at a more relaxed pace, after the rush of the traditional European vacation month in August.

Golf, sail, hike explore historical sites, browse Hermes, Gucci, Ermenegildo Zegna, Vuitton and more or merely disappear for a week or two into a refuge of complete indulgence.

These extraordinary resorts, a 1960’s inspiration of Karim Aga Khan IV, have hosted the yachting and polo set for generations, where the boating highlight comes each September with the Sardinia Cup. The equestrian life will always be an integral part of Costa Smeralda life, culture and visitors, as the Aga Khan owns Ireland’s Gilltown Stud Farm, Haras de Bonneval breeding farm in France and the famous Calvados stud farms.

Savin Couelle, “the father of the Costa Smeralda’s architects” supervised the creation of this visceral architecture, blending the intense Sardinian light with natural and created shade. While melding Moorish and rustic design, he carefully orchestrated a recipe of elegance and intuition. His father Jacques Couelle working in concert with the Aga Khan, created the 5 star luxury hotel and private marina known as Cala Di Volpe and added his signature hand-made glass colored blocks which appear above the spacious dining room and unique spaces. Couelle’s designs gave rise to a host of worldwide imitators, none of whom have duplicated his inspired, timeless creation here. Drawing on three thousand years of the island’s inhabited history, its indigenous materials, natural and architectural forms, he strived that “The visitor must never know for sure that a building hasn’t always been there.”

Many opt to view the stunning, granite rock formations and natural beauty from the water. Every year, more and more megayachts call the Costa Smeralda their year round home, due to the recent initiation of new tax advantages. Some of these extraordinary craft are available for short term contract, and, of course, Starwood’s attentive yet unobtrusive staff graciously charter available water craft or arrange gourmet picnics for their celebrity guests, villa residents, and international sailing teams.

The journey of a lifetime begins with touchdown at Costa Smeralda. Allow the Starwood Hotels and Resorts staff to fulfill your every vacation desire, and join the many repeat elite who make next year’s reservations while still enjoying this year’s resplendent stay. Cala di Volpe, the 124 room epitome of resort luxury can be found along the idyllic road to Porto Cervo and shares the center stage with Hotel Pitrizza, Hotel Romazzino and Hotel Cervo. Starwood guests are able to enjoy extraordinary gourmet cuisine and Sardinian local specialties among multiple dining locations and play the well-groomed Pervero Golf course which is nestled within the gentle rolling hills in close proximity to all four unique hotel properties.

Renowned California artists are offering outdoor painting workshops in Costa Smeralda overlooking the sparkling Mediterranean. One Southern California artist and muralist, Moira Love, selected Costa Smeralda since rich earth tone colors and dramatic granite forms cast a moving contrast to emerald waters, tranquil skies and picturesque coastal villages.

For visitors seeking less privacy and private beach front access overlooking an expansive breathtaking view and lush landscaping, then Hotel Romazzino will satisfy cravings. Prefer to nest in tranquility, the waterfront dining, or a sparking pool by the enchanting ocean? Then perhaps the villas at Hotel Pitrizza will suit your desires. On the other hand, if you prefer a “fashion runway” where even the celebrities dress up and every day is a show, then Cala Di Volpe maybe the answer. Sheraton’s Hotel Cervo in Porto Cervo is tucked away in a beautiful natural harbor, adjacent to a shopper’s paradise including all the finest Italian fashion and retail outlets. All four luxurious properties provide a beautiful backdrop for relaxation and exceed any notions about service and hospitality since the staff is so polished and cordial. The immensely talented piano player Paolo at Cala Di Volpe entertained guests until 1:00 am while guests danced the night away under the macchia-scented midnight air.

What better way to recharge the spirit in Costa Smeralda and create life long memories.

The Italians say it best “Un’oasi di quiete tra cielo e mare nello smeraldo della costa” … A tranquil oasis set between the sea and sky on the emerald coast.

For more information, please call 1-800-325-3589 or book this season easily online at http://dgrp.reachlocal.com or http://www.costa2008.com

Fairmont Orchid Partners with Ironman Competition

The Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii at Mauna Lani Resort on the Big Island has partnered with the 2009 Ironman 70.3 Hawaii competition.

The 2009 Ironman 70.3 Hawaii will take place May 30, 2009, beginning with a 1.2-mile swim at Hapuna Beach State Park, a 56-mile bike race to the northern town of Hawi and back to Mauna Lani Resort and a 13.1-mile run entirely within the resort grounds.

Approximately 1,600 athletes from several states and countries will compete for 79 qualifying spots for the Ironman World Championship this October in Kona. Athletes and their families traveling to the Big Island for the event are invited to stay at The Fairmont Orchid with nightly room rates starting at $249.

Call 800-845-9905 and ask for the Ironman 70.3 Hawaii rate or register online at https://resweb.passkey.com/go/6556838f

For general hotel information, visit www.fairmont.com/orchid  For event information, call 808-329-0063, email kona@ironman.com  or visit www.ironman.com

Gloria & Emilio Estefan Open Costa d’Este Beach Resort

Benchmark Hospitality International and five-time Grammy Award-winning singer Gloria Estefan and her husband, producer Emilio Estefan, Jr., opened the Costa d’Este Beach Resort, a 94-guestroom, luxury property located in Vero Beach, Fla.

The Honorable Thomas White, mayor of the City of Vero Beach, presided at a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

At the event Mayor White proclaimed today as “Costa d’Este Day” in Vero Beach. Other speakers included the Estefans; Andy Zinni, Benchmark’s general manager at the resort; Penny Chandler, president, Indian River County Chamber of Commerce; and Burt Cabañas, chairman and CEO of Benchmark Hospitality International, which is the resort’s operator. Also in attendance were local commissioners, city council members, Vero Beach and Indian River County government officials, and prominent members of the community.

Following the ceremony all guests were invited to a festive reception held poolside and throughout the resort’s elegant ground floor public spaces. Costa d’Este Beach Resort opened to a fully booked weekend with a private group that has also reserved the property’s signature Cuban-fusion restaurant Oriente.

From its premier Ocean Drive location to its fashionable accommodations, gourmet cuisine and discreetly attentive service, Costa d’Este — meaning “East Coast” in Spanish — will cater to the most discerning leisure travelers from around the world.

The $50 million resort features 94 guestrooms including four one-bedroom suites, a signature restaurant and bar, infinity-edge swimming pool and cabana bar, full-service spa and fitness center, as well as elegant facilities for special events. World-class tennis courts, championship golf, sport fishing, snorkeling and diving are nearby. In celebration of the Estefans’ heritage, the resort’s Oriente restaurant features gourmet fare as interpreted by Cuba’s Oriente region.

The menu draws inspiration from Spanish, Latin and Creole traditions and promises a mouthwatering adventure for guests, Vero Beach visitors and residents. Costa d’Este Beach Resort was developed by Miami-based Claro Development Solutions and is operated by Benchmark Hospitality International. Introductory rates begin at just $189 per room through September 30.

Fall rates start at $249 from October 1 - December 19, 2008. For more information and reservations, call 772-410-0104 or visit www.costadeste.com