Jetsettersblog

Festivals around the World for 2008

ADVENTURE World’s leading small group adventure travel associate, Explore! Worldwide, has just released its 2008-09 special interest festival programme, including five brand new tours.

There are over 20 tours that range from six to 21 days in over 15 countries such as Land of the Dragon festival in Bhutan, Voodoo festival in Africa, Naadam festival in Mongolia, the famous Rio Carnival in Brazil and many more.

The 13 day “Loi Krathong and Surin Elephant Round-Up” tour in Thailand is one of the new tours introduced to Explore!’s programme. Commonly known as Festival of Lights, it is Asia’s largest gathering of elephants. The tour costs from NZ$2753.00 per person twin share and departs on November 7 this year.

There are also new tours in China, India and Mali, taking place in 2008 and 2009.

One of the popular itineraries is the Clarenbridge International Oyster Festival in Ireland. This eight day cycling trip costs from NZ$1685.00 per person twin share plus local payment of EUR120.

For a more adventurous journey, Mexico’s “Day of the Dead” festival occurs each November and celebrates the lives of ancestors with large street parties with music and local delicacies. The 15-day package starts from NZ$2164.00 per person twin share plus local payment of USD320.

All programmes include accommodation and some meals, extensive sight seeing with an Explore! tour leader and transfers.

To book an Explore! festival tour, contact Adventure World on 0800-238-368 or visit www.adventureworld.co.nz for more details.

SUNTRUST CONCERTS IN THE GARDEN in Atlanta

Tickets go on sale Friday, May 9 for Atlanta’s most popular outdoor concert series.

Tickets go on sale Friday, May 9 for Atlanta’s most popular outdoor concert series. From melodic strains of New Orleans blues tortuous renditions of ‘60s rock and roll, Midtown is the place to be on Friday nights this summer, when SunTrust Concerts in the Garden returns to the Atlanta Botanical Garden.

Six spectacular shows, planned from May through August, will feature nationally acclaimed artists performing on the stage in front of the Fuqua Conservatory for guests invited to relax on blankets on the Great Lawn.

Tickets for all concerts are $35 and available at the Garden’s Gift Shop, and at the Ticketmaster banner at right for instant purchases with major credit cards, or charge by phone at 404-249-6400 (Phone and online orders are subject to processing fees and applicable service charges; no fees are applied to tickets purchased at the gift shop). Discounted tickets are available to Garden members for $31.50; to become a member, call 404-591-1539.

This season’s powerhouse lineup features:

Friday, May 30: Buddy Guy, with opening act The Mike Lowry Band

This pioneer of electric blues and Chicago’s fabled West Sidesound is a Louisiana native, an American blues and rock guitarist, and a singer as well. Considered an inspiration to Jimi Hendrix and other ’60s blues and rock legends, he’s been dubbed an important exponent of Chicago blues made famous by Muddy Waters and Howlin’ Wolf. Known for his showmanship, Guy plays with drumsticks and meanders into the audience while performing. His career took off during the blues revival of the late 1980s. Notable albums include Stone Crazy, Damn Right I’ve Got The Blues, Feels Like Rain and Blues Singer.

Friday, June 20: Shawn Colvin with special guest Paul Thorn

Shawn Colvin garnered both Song of the Year and Record of the Year Grammies in 1998 for “Sunny Came Home” and was awarded a Best Contemporary Folk Grammy for her

1989 debut disc, “Steady On.” As a storyteller, Colvin remains both clear-eyed and warm-hearted, delivering her toughest tales with tenderness and empathy. Similarly, her musical arrangements are both succinct and seductive. Good-naturedly sexy songs share the spotlight with romantically ambivalent tales. A Midwesterner, Colvin first performed straight-up rock. Later, during a stint in Austin, Texas, she tackled western swing. Moving east, she backed up acts like Buddy Miller and Suzanne Vega. Guest Paul Thorn: A gritty, raucous energetic personality who combines R&B and rock ‘n roll into working-class poetry.

Friday, July 11: John Hiatt and the Ageless Beauties

In May, New West Records will release John Hiatt’s new full-length album Same Old Man, his first album since 2005’s critically acclaimed Master of Disaster, of which The Washington Post proclaimed, “Hiatt has written some of the best melodies of his career.” Appearing on Same Old Man are Kenneth Blevins on drums, Patrick O’Hearn on bass and Luther Dickinson on guitar, mandolin and national resonator. Hiatt’s daughter, Lilly, sings harmony on the songs “Love You Again” and “What Love Can Do.” John Hiatt’s career spans more than 30 years, and his songs have been covered by everyone from Bob Dylan, Eric Clapton, Bonnie Raitt and BB King to Iggy Pop, Three Dog Night and The Neville Brothers. Hiatt began his solo career with the 1974 album Hangin’ Around the Observatory. His landmark 1987 release Bring the Family received critical praise and was his first album to chart in the United States.

Friday, July 18: Jerry Jeff Walker

Jerry Jeff Walker has lived the troubadour’s life. Lots of musicians talk about the road, but as a kid Walker actually rode his thumb out of his hometown in upstate New York to such destinations as Key West, where he introduced another young musician, Jimmy Buffett, to the pleasures of island life. Walker sang for pennies on New Orleans street corners, alongside his “Mr. Bojangles,” and in the smoky cafes and folk clubs of Greenwich Village, following in the footsteps of Bob Dylan and Ramblin’ Jack Elliott. Walker became, along with Willie Nelson and Asleep at the Wheel, one of the arbiters of the internationally famous Austin musical community. He’s played for four or five presidents, toured in Lear Jets and his band of musicians, known variously as the Lost Gonzo Band and the Gonzo Compadres, have been indispensable parts of his endless caravan.

Friday, July 25: Lucinda Williams

Four-time Grammy winner Lucinda Williams was dubbed “America’s Best Songwriter” by Time magazine, and most recently her “Come-On” snagged the Grammy for Best Rock. Her openhearted approach lends a timeless feel to her music. Williams, who grew up intake Charles, Louisiana, has been finding new ways to perform since childhood. The singer-songwriter channels both her emotion and restive creative energy into a startling set of songs that touch on both darkness and redemption. Her lyrics attest to her willingness to stretch as a musician -and to put herself on the line as a chronicler of life. “I get tired of people looking at my songs and feeling that they’re all sad and dark,” she says. “There’s more to them than that. It’s a full circle, like I’ve come through a metamorphosis.”

Friday, August 1: KT Tunstall

Hailed as a “folk-rock goddess” by Rolling Stone, Scottish-born singer-songwriter KT Tunstall crafts a provocative sonic mesh of heartfelt pop, rootsy electric blues and left-field alt-rock. Within six months of its 2006 release, Eye to the Telescope, her gritty, soulful debut, was certified gold in the United States, and her music became omnipresent - all over radio, television, movies and the Internet. Thanks to the multi-media exposure of three singles - the Grammy-nominated “Black Horse and the Cherry Tree,” “Other Side of the World” and “Suddenly I See” (from the hit movie “The Devil Wears Prada”) - Eye is now certified platinum in the United States. Her new album, Drastic Fantastic, features collection of thumping pop songs and intimate, often mysterious ballads.

Go to www.concertsinthegarden.org  for up-to-the-minute information on artists, dates and ticketing. Gates open at 7 p.m., and shows start at 8 p.m. All concerts are rain or shine. This year’s concert-goers will enter through the regular Garden admission area. The main entrance road will be closed to traffic, and off-site parking will be available at Colony Square for the discounted price of$5 with a voucher. From there, free shuttles will run to the Garden continuously. A limited number of Platinum tickets (on-site parking included) is available through Member Services at 404-591-1550.

Although outside food and beverages are not allowed in the Garden, a selection of premium beer, wine and soft drinks will be available for purchase, as will picnic fare from Sun In My Belly catering (appetizers, salads, sandwiches, entrees and desserts).A limited supply will be available for walk-up purchase, so pre-orderings strongly recommended. The menu and pre-order form can be downloaded at www.atlantabotanicalgarden.org.

The Garden thanks SunTrust Bank for its continuing and generous support of SunTrust Concerts in the Garden. Media support is provided by 92.9 DAVE-FM.

For information, visit www.ConcertsInTheGarden.org

2008 Savor Sarasota Restaurant Week

May 27-June 8, 2008

The Sarasota Convention and Visitor’s Bureau (SCVB) announces the third annual “Savor Sarasota” Restaurant Week, now extended to run nearly two full weeks, from May 27-June 8, 2008, culminating in the new “Forks & Corks” culinary festival as the grand finale. Sarasota is recognized nationally for our beaches, culture and circus heritage

Sarasota, FL - The Sarasota Convention and Visitor’s Bureau (SCVB) announces the third annual “Savor Sarasota” Restaurant Week, now extended to run nearly two full weeks, from May 27-June 8, 2008, culminating in the new “Forks & Corks” culinary festival as the grand finale. This 13-day dining event will showcase Sarasota’s chefs and the eateries which have helped the city earn the distinction of having one of the highest concentrations of Zagat-rated restaurants in Florida.

The SCVB is continuing the tradition of holding the “Savor Sarasota” dining promotion to encourage both visitors and locals alike to experience Sarasota’s numerous and varied restaurants and to create more public awareness of the region’s award-winning restaurant scene. The event has become one of the most popular culinary events in the state over the past three years, as it encourages food and wine lovers to visit Sarasota to imbibe in the best of the region’s restaurants.

The SCVB has currently recruited over 30 restaurants, many of which have earned Zagat ratings, to participate in the third year of the event, during which patrons will be able to enjoy multi-course meals at participating restaurants for $15 per person for lunch and $25 per person for dinner.

“Sarasota is recognized nationally for our beaches, culture and circus heritage,” said Virginia Haley, President of the SCVB. “‘Savor Sarasota’ opens our visitors to the creative cuisine our talented chefs prepare, and we are so pleased that so many of our wonderful restaurants have chosen to participate for the third year in a row.”

Sarasota Restaurants Look Forward to Another Successful Restaurant Week Restaurants taking part in the third annual “Savor Sarasota” restaurant week include: Michael’s on East, with it’s classic 40’s supper-club aura and menu that blends European, Asian, and Latin influences with American classics; and Caragiulo’s, offering fine Italian fare. Additional participants for 2008 include Vernona Restaurant at the Ritz-Carlton, featuring an all-organic menu; Selva Grill with it’s Peruvian flair; and Derek’s Culinary Casual, offering a daring menu of original flavors.

Michael Klauber, owner of trendy near-downtown Sarasota eatery Michael’s on East, is looking forward to another successful event again this year, especially as 2008 will play host to the first “Forks & Corks” Food and Wine Festival, sponsored by the Sarasota-Manatee Originals, of which Klauber is president.

“Michael’s On East was on board for ‘Savor Sarasota’ from the start, as we believe it is important for all local restaurants to unite for this wonderful occasion,” said Klauber. “We are especially excited this year, as the event will culminate with the new ‘Forks & Corks’ festival, which will showcase the diverse cuisine from the independent restaurants in Sarasota and Manatee Counties, and will offer a grand finale for the larger celebration of the region’s restaurant scene.”

“Forks & Corks” will be held June 5-8, 2008, and will offer interactive tastings and seminars, vintner dinners, food competitions and a grand festival celebration with live music, children’s activities and a charity auction. A portion of proceeds from the “Forks & Corks” event will benefit Meals On Wheels in Sarasota and Manatee counties.

For a complete list of participating restaurants, events, accommodation packages and contact information, please visit www.savorsarasota.org. For more information on “Forks & Corks,” please visit www.FreshOriginals.com

Visitors to Sarasota Enjoy Special Rates and Packages During Restaurant Week

In addition to the wonderful restaurants patrons will experience during “Savor Sarasota” restaurant week, visitors to Sarasota can also enjoy some great rates and packages at local hotels and resorts from May 27 - June 8 2008, in conjunction with the event.

Guests visiting town during Restaurant Week can enjoy a special “Savor Sarasota” package, offered by The Ritz-Carlton. The package includes overnight accommodations in a city-view or water-view guest room, overnight valet parking, and dinner for two at Vernona from the “Savor Sarasota” menu. This package is available for $259, May 27-June 15, 2008. Advance reservations are required; rates listed are per room, per night, single or double occupancy.

During restaurant week, The Colony Beach and Tennis Resort is offering a two day/one night package that includes a one or two bedroom suite from as low as $120 per person. The package also includes daily breakfast for each adult, a $100 dining credit for use in the Colony Restaurants, a complimentary spa treatment, 10% off additional spa services and 10% off at two designer boutiques. Reservations can be made through www.colonybeachresort.com/savor  or by calling 941.383.6464.

The Tropical Breeze Resort of Siesta Key is offering a special “Buy 3 Nights, Get 1 Free” promotion to guests visiting Sarasota for restaurant week. Travelers can visit the resort’s website at www.tropicalbreezeinn.com  to inquire about reservations.

The Captiva Beach Resort is offering a package at $385 per person that includes: 3 nights lodging in a suite; bottle of wine upon arrival; “Savor Sarasota” dinner for two at Caragiulo’s Italian Restaurant; breakfast for two at the Broken Egg Restaurant; one breakfast in bed delivery basket; and two one-hour in-room massages. Travelers can visit www.captivabeachresort.com for more information.

The Comfort Inn Sarasota will offer standard rooms at the special restaurant week rate of $69.95, and The Days Inn Sarasota will offer standard rooms at the special rate of $59.95. The Hotel Ranola will have standard rooms available for $99 and suites available for $129. A Beach Bungalow is offering fully equipped bungalows at $895 for the week. These special rates will be available May 27 - June 8, 2008, and visitors to Sarasota for the “Savor Sarasota” restaurant week can visit http://www.sarasotafl.org   for booking information.

Sarasota and her string of eight islands are located along Southwest Florida’s Gulf Coast between Tampa and Ft. Myers. Sarasota and Her Islands is comprised of Sarasota, Longboat Key, Lido Key, St. Armands Key, Manasota Key, Siesta Key, Casey Key, Englewood, Nokomis, North Port, Osprey and Venice. In addition to sandy beaches, Sarasota and Her Islands also offer numerous cultural and ecological attractions. For more information on saving and discovering in Sarasota, call the Sarasota Convention & Visitors Bureau at (800) 522-9799 or visit www.sarasotafl.org

Isle Of Wight Adventure From £10

So he might embarrass you occasionally with his corny jokes, dodgy dance moves and disastrous dress sense, but this Father’s Day (Sunday 15 June) why not show Dad just how much you care by treating him to an Isle of Wight adventure break? He could enjoy sea kayaking, kitesurfing, paragliding and river canoeing and with activity prices starting at just £10, you can afford to come along and join in the fun.

With its dramatic cliffs, wide-open river estuaries and rolling chalk downland, the Isle of Wight offers some of Britain’s most diverse countryside. Ringed by nearly 30 miles of ‘Heritage coasts’, more than half the island is officially designated as being an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty making it the perfect destination for an adventure break this Father’s Day.

And with more than 400 accommodation providers to choose from, including comfortable B&Bs, pretty cottages and rural farmhouses, you are sure to be only a stone’s throw from any of the wonderful sights and attractions the Island has to offer. For further details of where to stay, eat and drink, visit www.islandbreaks.co.uk  or telephone 01983 813813.

Isle of Wight Sea Kayaking

Explore the Island’s cliffs and caves only accessible by kayak on a one-day sea kayaking course. The adventure starts with kitting up in wet suits, helmets and buoyancy aids and a safety briefing, then a quick walk to the beach at Freshwater Bay. From there, it’s out under the cliffs and the fun begins with the emphasis very much on enjoying a day out on the water. Once back at base, you can relax with a drink in the bar or café exchanging experiences with fellow kayakers.

Isle of Wight Sea Kayaking offer Adventure Days run by qualified outdoor professionals for groups of between two and six people. The one-day sea kayaking course cost £70 per person and is available on Father’s Day (15 June) and selected weekends in July, August and September.

Gift vouchers are also available. For more information including what to bring with you, visit the website. Isle of Wight Sea Kayaking, tel. 01983 209471, enquiries@iow-seakayaking.co.uk,  www.iow-seakayaking.co.uk

Up the Creek with a paddle

Take your Dad on a Father’s Day Paddle (Sunday June 15) — a specially organised open canoe trip along the banks of the delightful River Medina here on the Isle of Wight. With the accent most definitely on fun, experienced sailing instructors will identify the birdlife and points of interest along the route which lasts around two and a half hours.

The Medina Valley Centre is a great place to learn to sail with the sheltered tidal waters of the Medina estuary providing safe yet challenging conditions for canoeing and dinghy sailing. The centre is also a residential outdoor activity centre for field studies and environmental education on the Isle of Wight with accommodation available for up to 80 people.

The Father’s Day Paddle is suitable for novices and costs just £10 for adults and £5 for those of school age. It starts at 10.30am and returns to the centre at 1pm with a pub stop enroute - weather dependent. The maximum group size is 16 and the minimum age is 8 years old. The aim is to stay dry but waterproofs may be useful. To book call the Medina Valley Centre on 01983 522195.

For information about other sailing and canoe courses which run throughout the summer, visit www.medinavalleycentre.org.uk

Waterski in the morning and windsurf in the afternoon

The two-day Weekender is designed to get you out on the water and having fun.

X-isle teaches 6 sports including Windsurfing, Sailing, Waterskiing and Kitesurfing, a fusion of surfing, windsurfing, wakeboarding, paragliding and kiteflying which is sure to blow you away! The Weekender gives you the option to try any 4 of them — simply specify which ones you would like to have a go at when you book. Available for those aged 8 to 80 providing you can swim and are moderately fit.

The cost is £200 per person and runs the weekend of Father’s Day (14/15 June) and weekends throughout the summer. For more information and to book, visit the website. X-isle Sports, tel. 01983 873111, info@x-isle.co.uk, www.x-is.co.uk

Take a running jump off a cliff - but not until you have been properly trained!
Experience the thrill and exhilaration of flying over the Island’s clifftops on a one or two-day paragliding course held on the Isle of Wight. The Island’s location ensures constant summer sea-breezes which provide smooth flying conditions that are essential for rapid and easy learning of basic paragliding skills.

High Adventure aim to get you flying as soon as is safe and practicable. First you will be taken to the training slopes where each student is allocated a harness, glider, helmet and radio. Following full instruction and safety checks, you will start to master the canopy and fly it like a kite. After a couple of hours, you will move to the lower slopes of the hill, where you will undertake some short, low ground skimming flights. As you grow in confidence and ability, you will move up the hill and soon you will be flying like a bird.

All flights are undertaken with full supervision and fully qualified instructors are in radio contact with you at all times, or take a tandem ride with one of the instructors (over 14s, upper age limit around 60 — note weather dependant).

A one-day weekend course costs £110 and £195 for two days and there is still availability over the weekend of Father’s Day (14/15 June) and weekends throughout the summer. For information or bookings, contact High Adventure, tel. 01983 752322, office@high-adventure.uk.com / www.high-adventure.uk.com

Ferry crossings operate via Wightlink from Portsmouth to Ryde and Fishbourne, and Lymington to Yarmouth, Tel: 0870 5827744, www.wightlink.co.uk  and Red Funnel Ferries sail from Southampton to Cowes and East Cowes, Tel: 0870 4448890, www.redfunnel.co.uk

Cultural Journey By Rail To The Salzburg Festival

This summer head to Austria with Great Rail Journeys, the UK’s market leader for escorted holidays by rail, and experience the wonders of one of the world’s major artistic and social events – the Salzburg Festival.

The 9-day ‘Austria & the Sound of Music’ tour, which departs on Thursday 31st July, visits Salzburg for three-nights during the renowned festival. Attracting many of the world’s best directors, conductors, singers and actors to perform world-renowned operas, plays and concerts, the event is a must for all fans of the classical performing arts.

Highlights of the holiday include three-nights’ stay in the magnificent city of Vienna at the superior 4-star Mercure Grand Hotel Biedermeier. During our time in the Austrian capital we take a walking tour of the fabulous city, visit the world famous Spanish Riding School, take a trip on-board a vintage tram to the small town of Grining, and enjoy dinner and a classical concert at Schönbrunn Palace.

On our arrival in the picturesque city of Salzburg, we are able to relax within the elegant 5-star Hotel Bristol. Highlights include a tour of the town taking in the locations that feature in the film ‘The Sound of Music’, including Leopoldskron Castle, Hellbrunn Castle, Mondsee and the pretty village of Gilgen.

With 43 opera performances, 68 drama performances and 81 concerts, there are plenty of opportunities to be enriched by the cultural events of the Salzburg Festival.

From Mozart’s operatic masterpiece, Don Giovanni, and Verdi’s grand opera, Otello, to performances of the works of Bach, Beethoven and Tchaikovsky, visitors can experience Europe’s greatest composers and writers.

The cost is £1,675 per person, based on two sharing. This price is inclusive of return First Class rail travel from St Pancras International, eight nights’ hotel accommodation with breakfast each day, eight dinners, transfers, all excursions as per the itinerary and the services of a Tour Manager throughout.

Reservations: 01904 527 180, www.GreatRail.com

Enjoy Music And Fireworks At Madeira’s Atlantic Festival

Head to the beautiful sub tropical island of Madeira this June and enjoy unforgettable music and firework shows during the annual Atlantic Festival.

The festival features the Madeira Music Festival and the International Fireworks Competition in which contestants from different countries organise firework displays to accompany the music on every Saturday in June. It will also include performances by philharmonic bands in the city centre.

Prestige Holidays is offering a week’s stay in June for £618 per person based on two people sharing a twin room with pool/garden view at Quinta Bela Sao Tiago on BB. This includes return Air Portugal flights from London Gatwick, private taxi transfers on island and a free BBQ on Saturday night to watch the Atlantic Festival fireworks. The hotel provides a great location to watch the fireworks as it has a lovely terrace overlooking the Atlantic.

To book you Atlantic Festival break call Prestige Holidays on 01425 480400 or consult the web site www.prestigeholidays.co.uk

Paul Mccartney Free Concert In Ukraine

He’s ‘Back in the USSR’ – well at least the former USSR! Sir Paul McCartney announced ‘Yesterday’ that he will be performing a free concert in Kyiv’s (Kiev’s) Independence Square on the 14th June. The concert, called ‘Independence Concert’ is the brainchild of Victor Pinchuk, the billionaire tycoon who was behind last year’s free concert by Elton John in the same square.

“One could not imagine this 30 years ago. Nobody could even dare to hope for this 20 years ago. One could only dream about it 10 years ago. 5 years ago we could only envy our neighbours for whom this became a reality. And finally the day has come. For the first time we have the opportunity to hear the songs that changed the world and created a new culture” Pinchuk was quoted as saying.

To coincide with the free concert, the Pinchuk art Centre, the largest contemporary art gallery in Eastern Europe, will be exhibiting 40 pieces of artwork by Sir Paul McCartney – the first exhibition by the artist in this part of the world. Sir Paul will personally open the exhibition.

Ukraine, and in particular Kyiv, has in recent times been the focus of much international attention – since the dramatic Orange Revolution in 2004, hosting the 2005 Eurovision song contest, recently being awarded as the joint host of the 2012 UEFA Football championship, and playing host to a string of concerts by artists such as Elton John and the Rolling Stones, the announcement of this most recent concert solidifies Kyiv as Eastern Europe’s new cultural hub. Together with its ancient history, inspiring architecture, cosmopolitan night life and increasing awareness on the world stage Kyiv has truly come of age.

McCartney says: “I’m very excited because on the 14th June I’ve been invited to play a concert in Independence Square, Kyiv. Me and the band are going to be there and we’re going to have a great evening and we hope to see you there. So come long, it’s going to be a great evening hopefully for Ukraine. Pull together, groove, rock and roll – all together!”

And to help those in London to ‘Come Together’ with the music fans of Ukraine, Panorama Tours is offering 3 night weekend packages to coincide with this once in a lifetime event - 5* short breaks in Kyiv start from £285.00 per person + tax including return flights with Ukraine International Airlines from London Gatwick, 3 night’s accommodation with buffet breakfast, meet and assist and transfers from Kyiv’s Boryspil Airport.

New Lovers’ Map Of England

May, traditionally associated with lovers and new life , is just around the corner and the great outdoors beckons. If you’re looking for somewhere to take a special someone then the launch of English Heritage’s map of ‘Romantic England’ couldn’t be more timely. The map, available throughout May at www.english-heritage.org.uk/romance , details enchanting tales of love, romance and chivalry that have taken place at many of its sites and highlights some of the most romantic places to visit in England.

Joanda Appleby, national campaigns manager for English Heritage, said: “There are dozens of old English customs and traditions that mark May as the lovers’ month. We want our visitors to be inspired by the stories of our properties and rediscover a sense of old-fashioned romance. From the love letters sent to Elizabeth I on display at Kenilworth Castle, to the tragic Celtic myths of Tintagel Castle, these stories are far from the tedious texting and social networking of today’s relationships. We’re even hosting events at various locations around the country where kids can learn the ancient arts of chivalry for themselves.”

The map of ‘Romantic England’ features a host of stories connected to properties across the country – from secluded grounds perfect for picnics, to picturesque ruins, ideal for declarations of love. Tales range from the grand romances of past monarchs, to the English Heritage custodian who met her real life ‘knight in shining armour’ at a historical re-enactment, to cute and fluffy love between some of English Heritage’s resident animals.

The website offers visitors a chance to get into the traditional spirit of May and enjoy the stunning properties from a new and romantic angle – yet another reason to enjoy a day out worth talking about.

Take your loved one to these events and recapture a sense of heritage romance and chivalry…

A TIME OF CHIVALRY

Kenilworth Castle, Warwickshire

Sunday 4 & Monday 5 May, 11am – 5pm

 March “once more unto the breach” in an exciting build up to the Battle of Agincourt. Galloping knights on horseback, foot soldiers and a dedicated team of archers join forces to fight for honour, glory and valour. Escape into this chivalrous time with Living History displays ranging from cookery to religious exhibits, from a busy market to falconry. Also be entertained by a puppet show, music, dance and storytelling .

 Prices: Adults £8.00/ Concessions £5.30/ Children £3.50/ Family Ticket £19.50

 English Heritage Members: Adults £2.00/ Concessions £1.00/ Children £1.00/ Family Ticket £5.00

 THE GRAND MEDIEVAL JOUST

 Bolsover Castle, Derbyshire

 Sunday 4 & Monday 5 May, 11am – 4pm

 Enjoy he thrills and spills of medieval jousting as this genuine battle of skill returns by popular demand. Be entertained by fantastic falconry and wandering minstrels and let the kids find out if they’ve got what it takes to be a medieval knight!

 Pre-booking recommended – Tel: 0870 333 1183

 Prices: Adults £10.00/ Concessions £8.00/ Children £5.00/ Family Ticket £25.00

English Heritage Members: Adults £5.00/ Concession £4.00/ Children £2.50/ Family Ticket £12.50

 KNIGHT SCHOOL

 Pendennis Castle, Cornwall

 Saturday 24 - Friday 30 May, 11am – 5pm (4pm on Saturday)

 What better way to learn the skills required of a medieval warrior than to get ‘armoured up’ for battle, have sword-fighting lessons and participate in a mock battle in defence of the Realm!

 Prices: Adults £5.50/ Concession £4.40/ Children £2.80/ Family Ticket £13.80

 English Heritage Members: Free

 ELIZABETHAN WEEK

 Kenilworth Castle, Warwickshire

 Sunday 25 – Friday 30 May, 11am – 5pm

 Enjoy a week of Elizabethan-style entertainment in preparation for the arrival of Queen Elizabeth I. Visitors will experience the music, games and riddles, and sword fighting that were the traditional entertainments of the time. See how life really was in Tudor times as Tudor folk take over the castle on the Sunday and Monday of the bank holiday weekend.

 Prices: Adults £7.70/ Concessions £5.20/ Children £3.30/ Family Ticket £18.70/

 English Heritage Members: Adults £2.00/ Concessions £1.00./ Children £1.00/ Family Ticket £5.00

 
KING HENRY’S JOUST

 Kenilworth Castle, Warwickshire

 Saturday 31 May & Sunday 1 June, 11am – 5pm

 Prepare to return to the days of epic Tudor entertainment. King Henry VIII will make a grand arrival at the Castle for a weekend of royal jousting, music and falconry. Enjoy this spectacle of Tudor pageantry along with a chance to meet the young princess and future Queen Elizabeth, as well as the mighty King himself.

 Booking recommended 0870 333 1183

 Prices: Adults £8.00/ Concession £5.30/ Children £3.50/ Family Ticket £19.50

 English Heritage Members: Adults £2.00/ Concession £1.00/ Children £1.00/ Family Ticket £5.00

 • The ‘Romance Map’ is available from www.english-heritage.org.uk/romance and is exclusive to English Heritage.

 • More information about English Heritage events during May can be found at www.english-heritage.org.uk/events

MÖTLEY CRÜE FEST 2008,

THE SUMMER’S LOUDEST SHOW ON EARTH

COMING TO CRICKET WIRELESS PAVILION

JuLY 31, 2008

Featuring: Buckcherry, Papa Roach, Sixx:A.M., and Trapt

Phoenix, AZ – During a press conference held today in Los Angeles, Mötley Crüe, the world’s most notorious rock band, revealed that this summer, they will bring the next generation of rock’s superstars out on the road with them for what will undoubtedly be the hottest ticket of the year for rock fans: “Crüe Fest ‘08,” which will visit cities across the U.S. and Canada July through August and will stop in Phoenix to perform at Cricket Wireless Pavilion on Thursday, July 31. The show will begin at 5:00pm.

Produced by Live Nation, Crüe Fest, a touring rock festival featuring the hottest names in rock and alternative, kicks off on July 1st, and will hit over 40 major North American cities by the end of August. As if fans getting to see a Mötley Crüe show were not enough, there is an impressive line-up for the first year of the tour which includes Buckcherry, Papa Roach, breakout rock artist Sixx:A.M., and alternative rock band Trapt.

Says Nikki Sixx of Mötley Crüe, ”We are SO excited not only to headline our own annual summer festival, but also to be able to share the stage with the next generation of great rock bands. There’s not a lot Mötley Crüe hasn’t done so to say this summer’s festival is going to be about rock ‘n roll excess is an understatement. A night of hit songs by great bands and a trail of panties coast to coast… Crüe Fest, hell yeah!”

Special Ticket Offer – 4 pack of lawn tickets for $117.00 plus applicable service charges.

Lawn tickets will be priced at $35.50, reserved tickets priced at $81.00, $51.00, and a limited amount of GA Pit tickets priced at $101.00 will go on-sale Saturday, April 19 at 12 NOON. Tickets will be available at the Cricket Wireless Pavilion Box Office (12pm-2pm), www.livenation.com and at the Ticketmaster banner above for instant purchases right now. . To charge by phone, call 480.784.4444 (Phoenix Metro Area) or 520.321.1000 (Outside Phoenix Area). All dates, acts, and ticket prices are subject to change without notice. All tickets are subject to applicable taxes, and service and handling charges.

For more show information, check out www.livenation.com

During the press conference, Mötley Crüe also announced that they will release “Saints of Los Angeles,” their first new studio album recorded with all of the original band members in over a decade, on June 17th.

Today’s event featured the premiere of Mötley Crüe’s brand new single, “Saints Of Los Angeles,” which the band played live during a brief but raucous performance. The song, which also includes backing vocals by Josh Todd (Buckcherry), Jacoby Shaddix (Papa Roach), James Michael (Sixx:A.M.) and Chris Brown (Trapt) is the title track of the new album. Lyrically, the new album follows the story of the band’s NY Times best-selling memoir The Dirt, a no-holds-barred tell-all that features every gritty detail of the band’s exploits as one of the world’s biggest rock bands. The first single and video were serviced today to radio and television and the digital download was instantly made available for purchase at the iTunes Music Store. In an industry first, the song was also made available as a download for the Rock Band video game simultaneously with its single release.

In addition to being televised live on Fuse, the press conference was broadcast live online and syndicated on numerous websites including TheRockvine.com. Mötley Crüe chose to deliver the live stream using Microsoft Silverlight via iStreamPlanet, Co’s iStream Player. The iStream Player is built on Microsoft Silverlight technology which is a lightweight cross-browser, cross-platform plug-in that delivers the next generation of fully immersive media experiences and rich interactive applications for the Web. Silverlight ensures consumers worldwide have a consistent experience while watching content in any browser and on any platform.

Official partners for Crüe Fest include JVC Mobile Audio, MTV’s Rock Band, Best Buy, Fuse TV, Lotus, and TheRockvine.com. On-site activities will include a 2nd “Stage” presented by Rock Band where fans attending the show can play the part of “rock star” while playing the game. A special Crüe Fest CD featuring tracks from all of the bands on the tour will be available exclusively at Best Buy beginning June 17th. JVC Mobile Audio premiered a viral video featuring Josh Todd of Buckcherry and Jacoby Shaddix of Papa Roach having an “experience” in a car surrounded by the latest JVC audio/visual technology, a cast of hot babes and a ton of soap bubbles.

For more information on Mötley Crüe, please visit: www.motley.com and www.myspace.com/motleycrue

JIMMY EAT WORLD on tour

and special guests

Wed, June 18, 2008 7:30pm

Dodge Theatre

400 W Washington St, Phoenix Az

All ages welcome - $30 tickets

The Valley’s own JIMMY EAT WORLD will be bringing a full scale, no holds barred homecoming extravaganza to the Dodge Theatre in Phoenix on June 18. As stunning as last year’s intimate semi-acoustic show at the Mesa Arts Center was, it was a mere teaser for the full production, sound, lighting and set list JIMMY EAT WORLD will be busting out for their biggest hometown headlining show in over 5 years! Expect to hear songs from the entire JIMMY EAT WORLD catalog featuring the hits The Middle, Sweetness, Pain, Work, Big Casino and more. Tickets will go on sale this Saturday, April 19 at 10am thru www.livenation.com