Where in the World to go?

A citadel constructed by Sultan Yacoub El Mansour in the 12th century to protect his palace, Maison Mnabha in Marrakesh's historic Kasbah, is a gem in a city of contrasts.

The Kasbah remains a royal quarter of palaces and monuments. One of its best known residents was Yves Saint Laurent, who set a precedent with the taste and flair with which he decorated his house. Artists, writers and actors subsequently established themselves in the old city. The Hermés family and Jean-Paul Gaultier keep houses here to this day.

Maison Mnabha was bought by its present owners (two brothers; one of them, Dr. Peter Dyer, holds a PhD on the Kasbah and is a fountain of local knowledge) in the early 1990s and painstakingly renovated. It was one of the few properties in the medina to have retained its original decorative features. Separated from the now-defunct women's quarters, the hotel's salon was used for the reception of guests by the house's original owners, who were members of the ruling elite at the Sultan's court.

The aim of the current owners at Maison Mnabha is to conserve the original features of the house and create a comfortable and calm family-run environment. Guests tend to be people searching for cultural pursuits away from the sterility of oversized five-star hotels; many are female, either travelling on their own, or in small groups. Although most hotel staff in Marrakesh speak only French and Arabic, those at Maison Mnabha communicate in a variety of languages.

The decoration of the formal rooms (four doubles/twin and one single) at Maison Mnabha reflects a traditional palace architecture that developed independently of neighbouring influences. Ceramic mosaics, carved stucco and painted wood have been integrated into an overall surface design rich in colour and bold in conception. The 17th to 19th-century decoration here is characteristic of the palace style but intimate and domestic in scale.

The upper patio, terraces (which offer views of a minaret-studded horizon and the Atlas Mountains) and bedrooms have been remodelled to synthesise traditional Moroccan elements with those of Southeast Asian (Buddha heads, Laotian silks) and African design. Antiques, collected by the owners over many years, are everywhere. In terms of value for money, attention to detail, cultural interest and personalised service, there is no better place to stay in Marrakesh.

China, Vietnam and Oman are tipped to be holiday favourites for 2008, with China being the hottest new destination, thanks to its hosting of the Olympics.

China and Vietnam are also examples of a new trend we are seeing, where people are looking for culture and history as well as great beaches.

Bookings to Sardinia are also tipped to soar next year, due to new flights, and both Greece and Turkey are likely to do well, according to a recent report

Egypt, which last year welcomed a million British visitors for the first time, is also on the up. Dubai continues to grow, particularly combined with the Maldives or Mauritius, and Cuba is dancing its way back up the charts.

Whether any of these destinations appeals, or you prefer to go against the fashion and find less well known places in which to spend your holidays, contact our specialist leisure travel consultants who will be pleased to research and arrange a holiday made just for you!

Known for its miles of clean sandy beaches, working artists and annual festivals, Laguna Beach is the perfect California small town getaway for visitors near and far.

Located mid-way between Los Angeles and San Diego, the city of Laguna Beach is a seaside village of 24,000-plus residents that includes hundreds of local working artists and unique gift shops. It is home for people who seek the relative tranquillity of beach accommodation as well as endless cultural opportunities. These include dozens of art and music events throughout the year, as well as an art museum and a live stage theatre.

Four of the well-known summer festivals include the Sawdust Art Festival, Festival of Arts/Pageant of the Masters and Art-A-Fair. These annual festivals together attract hundreds of thousands of visitors from around the world who experience original artwork in many different forms. Scheduled throughout the summer months, unique paintings, sculpture, photography and ceramics are just a few forms of art that visitors can enjoy.

More than two dozen hotels, B & B's, seaside villas and full-service resorts dot the coastline throughout the town. There is accommodation for every taste and style.

When it comes to dining, Laguna Beach has many favourite, long-established restaurants as well as extraordinary choices in many ethnic cuisines. Whether for the trendy or traditional experience, the area has become known as one of the best dining destinations in Southern California.

Laguna Beach is Southern California's premier seaside destination located just 75 minutes south of Los Angeles and along the central coast of Orange County. Laguna Beach is primarily served by Orange County Airport located just 20 minutes away

One of Papua New Guinea's forgotten historical wartime trails - Black Cat Track in Morobe Province - is being redeveloped as a major tourist attraction to rival the Kokoda Track.

On March 8, 1942 in World War II, the Town of Salamaua was captured by the Japanese. They had tried to take Port Moresby by sea, but were defeated in The Battle of the Corral Sea. Now they were going to take it by land. They tried to take the capital by going over the Owen Stanley mountain range, by the Kokoda Trail basing the operation out of Salamaua. They almost made it this time but were pushed back 30 miles short of the city, in a series of bloody battles. After this they converted Salamaua into a major supply base. After a few months had passed, they made their final attempt at Port Moresby, the Black Cat Trail. If they could capture the Allied Air Base in Wau, they could launch an offensive on the capital that would have overwhelmed the Australians, Americans, and Papua New Guinea Militia stationed there.

The Japanese attacked in force, but the Australians held out until reinforcements arrived. Then on April 23, the allies struck back along the trail taking it up to the hills called The Pimple, and Observation Hill. The Japanese were firmly entrenched there and the Australian advance was halted. Then on May 9, the Japanese launched there own attack in the Pimple area. They surrounded the foremost Australian Company and started closing in. The Australians were not relieved until the afternoon of the 11th. By this time they had withstood 8 attacks from parts of 2 Japanese battalions. The following day, they took The Pimple, supported by field guns where before there had been only 2 mountain batteries.

Then on the 14th, the Japanese launched a full scale attack, supported by guns and mortars, forcing the Australians to withdraw. On the 15th, over 100 Japanese planes attacked Australian positions in three raids, and on the 17th and 18th they raided the Wau airdrome.

In mid June, the allies started acting as if they were going to attack Salamaua, but really the target was Lae, on the other side of the Huon Gulf. The Japanese fell for this and on the 19th and 20th, they seemed to anticipate an attack, and started patrolling aggressively. The plan worked as planned, but the allies didn't attack until early September. Salamaua was captured on September 11 1942, a week after the Lae offensive began. 5 days later Lae was taken.


The Black Cat Trail is rarely remembered today, except as a hard hike through unforgiving terrain, and seldom then. The historical side of it is almost forgotten. Most hikers know that there is World War-II history behind it, and that's about it. It is sad that a place where so many men lost there lives defending their country, and ultimately the world from the Japanese Empire, would be forgotten so quickly. The glory was already taken by the men on the Kokoda Trail. All these men that lost their lives there are being forgotten.

Experience this tough environment for yourself, and imagine more clearly what the armies of both sides had to overcome, in terms of climate and terrain. At the same time, enjoy an incredible and memorable experience in a country so different from Europe with such diverse wildelife and flora.

The Langkawi archipelago off the north-western coastline of peninsular Malaysia is becoming an increasingly popular resort destination that has holidaymakers taking notice. The bulk of the forests that blanket its 99 islands remain untouched wilderness, and long may it remain so.

The statistics speak for themselves: 99 islands (maybe 104, depending upon the prevailing tides), of which only three have any settlement to boast of; Southeast Asia's oldest rock formations; a total of just 50,000 inhabitants; extensive untouched forests and vast wetlands; some unique wildlife and picture-postcard scenery, which avid film-goers will recognise as the backdrop to Anna and the King.

The closest beach to Kuala Lumpur, and several hundred kilometres to the south (50 minutes' flying time), Langkawi is within convenient weekend-break distance for residents of several regional capitals – a feature that could spell disaster for many eco-lovely destinations, but seems to work here. What makes Langkawi special is that island authorities clearly realise the island's natural beauty, as seen in their efforts to protect it. This is no Phuket or Bali, but a destination that remains, for the most part, untouched – and its inhabitants are keen to keep it that way.

Langkawi is basically a community of farmers and fishermen who have seen the benefits that accrue from tourism. This development has happened over the past decade, and while Langkawi could be considered regionally to be a late developer, it has superb infrastructure, from an international airport capable of handling 747s, to an extensive array of resorts, none of which dominates the natural landscape. This is where Langkawi sets itself apart from other regional tropical resort islands.

At the Frangipani Langkawi Resort & Spa for example, they have set about incorporating eco-friendly technology into all renovations, such as microbe treatment of the waste water so that it can be safely recycled as irrigation water for their extensive gardens. The resort hopes soon to become a regional resource for other hotels to model themselves upon.

The North Luangwa National Park is one of the most spectacular and least inhabited wilderness areas in Africa. There is a wide variety of wildlife resulting from the profusion of types of vegetation along the Luangwa River and the open plains.

Newly opened Delia Camp overlooks this magnificent river that provides food and water for so many animals and birds. It is not uncommon to see large herds of over 2,000 buffalo, followed and hunted by the lions, which are also abundant in the Park. Expect to see elephant, antelope, go looking for the elusive and beautiful leopards, sit under the shade of massive trees and watch the vibrant birdlife.

Built only last year (2006), Delia Campis situated in an area that is renowned for its plentiful wildlife. Special attention has been paid to ensure the 5 bungalows (constructed of timber) blend into the environment whilst still allowing wonderful views of the river. What a pleasure it is to sit on the viewing platform watching the animals come down to drink from the ever-changing river. The bungalows are built well above the ground with a walkway between each unit.

The lodge has an enormous terrace of more than 300 square metres with views over the Luangwa River. Visitors often see buffalo, hippopotami, elephants and even lions come to drink. Lunch in the shade of the restaurant, with its exceptional views, is very popular. Candle-lit suppers are accompanied by the sounds of the African night.

All this, together with game-viewing by vehicle with highly qualified guides, makes this a truly memorable destination!

The Azores Islands are an archipelago at the Westernmost point of Europe. These nine Portuguese islands were created by volcanic activity hundreds of millions of years ago and still retain the evidence of this cataclysm in their landscape: 7,700-foot mountain peaks, blue and green lakes, green fields and valleys. The Azores have just 240,000 inhabitants in 868 square miles and enjoy year-round temperatures that hover between 14 and 22 degrees centigrade

Why not try a guided week-long cycling and walking tours of one of the islands, that give participants the chance to climb the 3,640-foot Pico de Vara; cross forests of Japanese Cedars, big-leaf hydrangea, and wild ginger; and tour Europe's only tea plantation, which dates from 1883?

 

You probably know Key West from Hemingway's writing. You may know Key West for its reputation as a legendary party spot?

You may not think of Key West as a destination for your next luxury getaway. But the island has some surprises for you. From world-class resorts and upscale shopping and dining to colourful local haunts, Key West offers a host of indulgences

Luxury Lodging


Just steps from Duval Street (Key West's legendary main street), and no distance from Mallory Square (home of the island's nightly sunset celebration), lies The Westin Key West Resort & Marina. Although inspired architecturally by the island's signature Conch cottages, the resort offers far more than simple pleasures.

The four-story, 178-room resort features spacious rooms, many with vaulted ceilings and water views, and boasts an AAA Four-Diamond rating. There, you can luxuriate in the Westin's Heavenly Bed, replete with a pillow-top mattress, crisp sheets and plush pillows. An on-site concierge can assist with booking daytrips and water excursions. Or, if you choose, just lie back at the tropical pool, enjoy a margarita on the Sunset Deck bar or indulge in a casually sophisticated meal at the waterfront Bistro 245.

If you're seeking a retreat away from Old Town's hustle and bustle, consider a stay at Sunset Key Guest Cottages, also an AAA Four-Diamond property. These luxury cottages are situated on a 27-acre private island just 500 yards off the coast of Key West. You can access the nation's southernmost city via a launch service running 24 hours each day between the cottages and The Westin Key West Resort. The ride takes only 10 minutes.

On Sunset Key, lush landscaping and private beaches await, along with 37 luxury guest cottages, ranging from one to three bedrooms. Each offers views of either tropical gardens or the Gulf of Mexico, and verandas replete with Adirondack chairs. There's also a pool, personal in-room chef service and grocery-shopping services that allow you to have your cottage stocked before you arrive. A complimentary breakfast basket brimming with fresh-baked muffins arrives at your front door daily. You could really get used to it!

Shopping & Dining in Paradise
Upscale dining in the Key West area begins on Sunset Key, with a meal at the waterfront Latitudes Beach Café. The dinner menu offers a broad array of local seafood dishes, along with fire-seared steaks and fine wines. If you choose to dine in Key West itself, consider meals at such upscale eateries as the Grand Café Key West, La Trattoria or Michael's Restaurant.

Key West of coourse has its luxury stores and boutiques. The Key West Winery doesn't make its selection from grapes, but from such tropical fruits as oranges, Key limes and peaches.

The Real Key West
Perhaps the greatest luxury you can enjoy during your getaway is acquainting yourself with the real Key West and uncovering its secrets. Here's one: Hemingway, they say, drank at Sloppy Joe's. This is nearly true. He did drink at a bar called Sloppy Joe's, but at the time, this bar wasn't in the huge locale on Duval Street it currently inhabits. Rather, in Hemingway's day, the bar sat at 438 Greene Street, an address now home to Captain Tony's Saloon.

For a healthy dose of history and Key West culture, go for an authentic Cuban meal at Pepe's Café, one of the oldest restaurants in Key West. It was established in 1909 and has been drawing locals ever since.

To get to know Key West beyond its drinking and revelry, consider renting a scooter and getting off Duval. You'll discover an amazing architectural mélange: Victoriana on Fleming Street, and Conch architecture and cross-gabled cottages on Angela and Elizabeth streets. In fact, if you are interested in architecture, the entire region surrounding the city's funky, above-ground cemetery is worth a look.

Finally, plan for a farewell dinner at Louie's Backyard. Don't be fooled by the casual name – this restaurant is known as one of the best in the South. Dine in this beautifully restored Classic Revival home on Waddell Street, and then have a drink on the restaurant's unique two-story side porch facing the water. This is luxury in true Key West style.

A new cruise line is due to launch in the UK in October offering rare and exclusive access to the Lakshadweep Islands - an archipelago of virtually uninhabited tropical islands in the Indian Ocean.
 
Medway Leisure Travel can now book with Indian Ocean Cruises which has been granted exclusive permission by the Indian Government to visit the Lakshadweep Islands on the MS Ocean Odyssey.
 
Indian Ocean Cruises has been granted exclusive access to visit three of the islands - Tinnakara, Suheli and Cheriyam.
 
It is bound by its terms with the Indian Government to ensure the islands are left pristine at the end of every visit to protect the environment.

Following ancient spice routes, MS Ocean Odyssey will cruise a two-week voyage for a maximum of just 250 guests around the southwest coastline of India.

Prices start from £940 per person for a 14-night cruise only, based on a full-board basis including transfers between the airport and vessel, and all port taxes. Flights are not included in this price, but we will be pleased to arrange suitable connecting flights for you.

Experience the hottest adventures in the coolest of places! If you aren't already well acquainted with the wonders of the land of fire and ice, read on!

• Reykjavik is the northernmost capital city in the world, and the most westerly capital city in Europe - and is under 3 hours flying time from the UK.
• Iceland has a population of 300,000 - there is one phone book for the whole country and people are listed by their first names.
• English is widely spoken all over Iceland.
• The country is known as ''the land of fire and ice'' due to the large number of glaciers, the island's volcanic past and its geysers.
• In summer it is daylight for 24 hours a day and in winter it's possible to witness the wonder and beauty of the Northern Lights.
• In summer, you can see whales and porpoises. Many rare bird species may also spotted in Iceland.
• Horse riding is easy - Icelandic horses are sturdy and serene, ideal for the novice or more accomplished riders.
• The Golden Circle tour is a worthwhile day trip, and includes the magnificent Gullfoss waterfall, spouting hot springs at Geyser and Thingvellir national park, the site of the first Icelandic parliament and the point where the earth’s tectonic plates meet, creating a rift valley.
• Hiring a car is an affordable way to explore part of or the whole country  - allow ten days to drive the whole way round the island at a leisurely pace.
• For a taste of adventure head to one of the glaciers and try snow-mobiling on an icecap, or go quad-biking, white water rafting or super-jeeping.
• There is a beach in Reykjavik, heated by a geothermal spring (open summer only), where people can sunbathe and paddle. The azure-blue waters at the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa are renowned for their positive effects on the skin.
• Movies including Tomb Raider and View to a Kill have been filmed in Iceland; celebrities including Clint Eastwood, Yoko Ono, Emma Thompson, Harrison Ford, Top Gear’s Richard Hammond and explorer Sir Chris Bonnington have recently visited.

If you are interested in “a holiday with a difference”, not too far from home, why not contact us for advice and suggestions. Our experienced staff will be delighted to help you.

Ask yourself, what do you look for when choosing a holiday?

Is it perfect weather – beautiful beaches – and somewhere that’s easy to get to?

If so, we believe Cape Verde may be the new and exciting destination for you..

Nestled in the Atlantic Ocean off the West Coast of Africa, this chain of tropical islands boasts year round sunshine, white sands and crystal clear waters. And, with the island of Sal recently made accessible by direct flights from Gatwick and Manchester, it is a destination that can now be reached in under 6 hours.

What else do you look for?

Stunning scenery, a taste of local culture, or a choice of activities to keep the family busy? Whatever your answer, Cape Verde has it all.
 
From the spectacular mountain scenery of Santa Antao, to the dark volcanic rocks of Fogo, to the unspoilt beaches of Boavista, the range of scenery is vast. Experience the African culture and rich history of the largest island Santiago, or visit Sao Vicente, with its tradition of music and art.

For a more active holiday, this island has the reputation for being one of the world’s best windsurfing and body-boarding destinations, while Boavista, surrounded by reefs, is an excellent base for diving and fishing. Bicycle hire is available on most islands, with Santo Antao and Fogo, also particularly interesting for keen walkers.

Each island will have its own unique appeal, with varied excursions available for you to explore as you wish. With local flights and ferries operating between various islands, why not consider a twin centre holiday, and make the most of the variety Cape Verde has to offer.

For a break from the commercial hotspots of today, why not be one of the first to experience somewhere new – with direct flights and increasing accommodation, these islands may not remain a secret for long. Our consultants will be delighted to helping you decide where to base your holiday and what to do while you are there, and then making all the arrangements to create your ideal holiday, so do contact us.

Tenerife may be closer to Africa than Spain but the atmosphere is definitely Spanish - relaxed and unhurried by day, the pace hots up as the sun goes down. It's one island that can offer two very different breaks. Go south for hot sunshine, and north to Los Gigantes for dramatic scenery and sophistication.

With sun-baked sandy beaches and exuberant bars and nightclubs, the south coast of Tenerife feels far from the lush banana plantations and cosmopolitan towns of the north of the island. In fact, Tenerife is only 55 miles from north to south, but majestic Mount Teide cuts the island into two very distinct parts each having a very different character. Away from the holiday resorts, the island’s Spanish heritage reveals itself in sleepy whitewashed plazas and tiny Spanish tapas bars, in fun-loving fiestas and elegant colonial buildings.

At just over 12,000 feet, this volcanic mountain, in Las Canadas National Park, is the highest mountain in Spain and has a cable car which runs almost to the top. In the North, the resort of Puerto de la Cruz boasts stunning views of it, a picturesque waterfront, excellent shopping and entertainment.. The south of the island is hotter and sunnier and has an impressive lunar landscape. This is where the  buzzing resort of Playa de las Americas is located.

Tenerife offers you more than you probably expect. You could visit one of the 106 vineyards on the island, where wine production has been established for centuries. Why not take a trip to the sandy beach, Las Teresitas, five miles north of Santa Cruz? Here you will find half a mile of golden sand imported from the Sahara, lined with palm trees, kiosks and typical snacks and tapas. If you want to explore, discover the Pyramids of Guimar, constructed according to similar principles to those discovered in Mexico and Peru. To experience a taste of culture, you may like to attend a concert by the Symphony Orchestra, which plays at the Tenerife Auditorium in Santa Cruz.

Why not let us tailor a holiday to include your favourite activities and sights, here in Tenerife and its neighbouring islands – or anywhere else for that matter? Contact our specialist consultants and see what they come up with!

Standing for over ten centuries on the banks of the Nile, Cairo is a city of antiquity that has stood the test of time. Alongside Roman, Arab, and Turkish monuments, ancient souks and khawas (coffee houses) there are malls, restaurants featuring cuisines from around the globe and skyscrapers. The hustle and bustle of Africa's biggest city is offset by the palpable presence of the Great Pyramids and the Nile River, which are its heart and soul.

In ancient times the only way to visit the pyramids and other temples and monuments in Southern Egypt would have been to set sail down the Nile. Though airlines operate flights to these tourist spots, sailing down the Nile is still a good way to visit the historical and cultural monuments that line its banks. Nile cruises are usually three, four or seven nights. The ideal time of the year to go on one is between October and mid-April when the locks on the river are open and the weather is pleasant.

The shorter tours ply between Luxor and Aswan, while the longer cruises travel further north, with day trips overland to more interior locations. A cruise can cost anything between $55.00 USD to $300.00 USD per night, with seasonal hikes of  25% to 50%.

Modern-day Nile cruisers have evolved from the traditional dayabeeyah or "golden boat". These boats were used by royalty and in their present incarnation are floating hotels that have all the modcons, including swimming pools, hot tubs, in-room videos and even internet access. The restored dayabeeyahs that now sail the Nile, offer a scaled-down version of this luxury and can be compared to a floating bed and breakfast. Being smaller than the Nile cruisers they don't have to follow a rigid schedule and are able to berth at sites that are not accessible to their larger relatives. Their main charm is the fact that they give you a glimpse of the past.
 
Nile dinner cruises are available for an evening out within Cairo and offer good food, entertainment and a view of the city lights. They are open between 5-8 pm and last about 1-2 hours. They have a number of set menus priced between 50-90 pounds. The boat in Agatha Christie's famous novel Death on the Nile is said to have been loosely based on the Nile Peking, one of the finest dinner cruises in Egypt.

While you are in Cairo, why not sample a Khawa, meaning coffee or coffee shop? These are sidewalk cafés that are the popular watering holes where people meet to exchange news. Traditional beverages are served - which include tea, Turkish coffee and tamarind.
 
The Khan el-Khalili bazaar is an experience. It has brass and copper trays and pots, and silver jewellery, handmade applique pillow covers ($10 to $20), wall hangings and tote bags, inlaid boxes and djellabas (the traditional robes for men and women). Kerdassa near the pyramids has hand-woven Egyptian rugs, cotton scarves and tapestries.

For a short break or a longer holiday in Egypt, there is a lot to see, and our specialist consultants will be pleased to advise on the best and most reliable arrangements, so do contact us.

On Hawaii's Big Island, you can experience the desert-like lava plains along the Kona coast, climb its tallest mountain (Mauna Kea), hike through green rainforest or over black lava rock and the rainiest city in America, Hilo. From easy to extreme, there are many ways to enjoy everything this little corner of the Pacific has to offer.

The best time for whale watching is from November to May. Humpback whales travel to Pacific waters to give birth and care for their young before the long swim home to Alaska. During that time, you can easily spot them from the shore. Watch for a spout, like a plume of smoke over the ocean. This "whale exhale" will hold its shape for a few seconds, unlike a puff of sea spray made by wind. It's a grand show from shore, but the best place to see it is onboard a boat. Providers know how to get where the whales are safely watched, careful not to break the 100' perimeter and invade their "space." Many boats have a hydrophone they lower underwater to let you listen to the whale song. The boats offer refreshments, restrooms and good company.

Other activities include a submarine ride, kite surfing, a dinner cruise, and swimming with the dolphins. One of the best dolphin encounter programs is in the lagoons of Hilton Waikoloa Village or you can meet the dolphins in their own neighbourhood. The better Ocean activity providers do it all. They offer seasonal whale watch excursions, plus scenic sunset sails, snorkel cruises, private fishing charters and much more. Kayaks are a good way to explore out-of-the-way waters with a guide. There are even see-through kayaks for a totally new perspective. From sport-fishing and parasailing, to boogie boarding and scuba there is plenty to fill the daylight hours.

For an off beat experience, why not take an inflatable kayak tour down old sugar cane water flumes? There are week-long custom "camps" that are tailor-made for your family gathering, including dolphin swims, a cookout and accommodation.

Hawaii's Big Island is alive with history. On the west side, experience Pu'uhonua O Honaunau, a restored three centuries old Hawaiian village, complete with thatched huts, hand-carved tiki deities, a temple and a sense of awe. You can tour an historic coffee plantation or a major ethno-botanical garden, call on a royal residence, visit the first official Christian church in the Islands or see the home of Hawaiian paniolo (cowboys) in Waimea town. Or you can gaze into space on a Mauna Kea summit astronomy trek. In east-side museums, discover the power of a tsunami or take a virtual undersea voyage, check out a macadamia nut factory, missionary manor house, and an orchid farm.

A not-to-be-missed experience is a visit to an active volcano. Today, Hawaii Volcanos National Park (HVNP) is the country's 13th National Park and the state's premier visitor attraction. It was created to preserve the region's unique volcanic features, its early human history and the plant and animal life that is part of this special bioregion. It is located 30 miles southwest of Hilo and 96 miles southeast of Kona. It's open year-round, 24 hours a day. There is also good shopping in Kona, coffee plantation tours, excellent golf on the Kohala Coast, and the quaint town of Hilo, where you'll feel as though you've gone back in time.

A hike down to the current lava flow offers a once in a lifetime chance to view Madame Pele at work up close - her home, Kilauea Volcano, is the world's most active. The current eruption began January 3, 1983 and is the largest and longest eruption in history. There is no indication when she will stop, but believe there is a good chance of her still being active by the time this newsletter reaches you! Across the island there are jagged lava fields, which provide a contrast to the otherwise lush vegetation. Seeing the lava flow glowing at night is an incredible experience.

All of Hawaii's six islands have long, unspoiled stretches of coastline providing a bounty of beaches that have long been a beacon for visitors. Whether it is Kauai, Big Island, Oahu, Molokai , Lanai or Maui there is something unique about each of them.

Kauai

There's more beach per mile of coastline here than on any other Hawaiian Island. Forty-three beaches in total, varying from quiet white-sand lagoons, to calm water bays, to expansive pounding ocean shores.

Big Island

There are 266 miles of coastline and 47 beaches here with diverse sand colors from white to green to rich volcanic black. The waters of Hawaii's Big Island are teeming with brightly coloured tropical fish and make it a popular destination for snorkelling and diving.

Oahu

Oahu has over 125 miles of shoreline. It is known for world-famous Waikiki Beach, and the big-wave North Shore surf beaches, Pipeline and Sunset. But there are several other sandy wonderlands in between. The South Shore coastline is known for its many sheltered beaches ideal for families (however, in the Summer the surf can get unusually high). snorkelling, tide pooling and swimming make great activities for families picnicking along these beaches. The West Shore (Leeward side) also has many fine swimming beaches. This coast is known for offshore fishing spots. Winter months see the largest waves, which reach heights of more than 15 feet. The North Shore is best known for its world-class surfing and huge winter swells. During the winter months, waves reach heights of 25 feet. The East Shore (Windward side) beaches tend to be more lush and tropical. Northeast trade winds keep the coast cool 90 percent of the year, making it a favourite location for windsurfing and sailing enthusiasts.

Molokai

Papohaku Beach, located on the west end is three miles in length and as wide as 100 yards. As it's the second largest in the entire state, you're sure to find plenty of room to spread out your towel and soak in the serenity. You'll find no end of ways you can enjoy the Island's varied coastline. Spend your days sailing, windsurfing, snorkelling, scuba diving, surfing, kayaking, or boogie boarding your way around the Island's many coves, inlets, and wide-open shores.

Lanai

This offers popular water sports including snorkelling, scuba diving, sailing, and deep-sea fishing. One of the island's most prized attractions is glorious Hulopoe Bay, a marine conservation area prized by divers and snorkelers for its vivid tropical reef fish. Here you can spend days splashing in the warm waters, where spinner dolphins are just as likely to frolic. Another unforgettable activity is charting a sailboat to go on a snorkelling or sightseeing adventure to the island's remote and beautiful West coast.

Maui

Some beaches are so small and tucked away you'll need an experienced guide to help you find them, while others - like famous Kaanapali or Wailea - are ranked among the best beaches in the country. And when you've had enough fun in the sand, a world of water activities awaits you. You can enjoy just about any ocean activity imaginable here, including snorkelling, scuba diving, sailing, surfing, windsurfing, boogie boarding, skim boarding, jet-skiing, catamaran cruises, deep sea fishing and charters of every kind.

As you can see, there is surely something for everyone in Hawaii, so contact our specialist consultants for more details. They will be pleased to guide you through your decision making to ensure you have the best possible holiday.

History and culture. There is no mistaking the fact that Jordan is a Kingdom steeped in history and culture. From the moment you arrive, you get a sense of its rich heritage, all around are remnants of ancient civilizations long since past, yet they still remain, stamped into the very fabric of this amazing Kingdom and etched into the soul of the people who live here.
 
What do the Roman Emperor Hadrian, the Prophet Moses, and Lawrence of Arabia have in common? These are just three of the many historical personalities who passed through Jordan through history, and whose itineraries now attract adventure seekers and action vacationers from throughout the world.

For example, a small group of people in 4-wheel-drive vehicles can retrace the journey of the Emperor Hadrian from north to south Jordan, taking in biblical cities and legionary fortresses. Or, more ambitiously, a caravan of 25 people on camels or donkeys can set off to retrace the journeys of Lawrence of Arabia in the central highlands and eastern deserts of Jordan, spending a week en route and camping in a different place every night. Parts of these itineraries can be done along the edge of the desert in steam-powered World War One vintage trains, the same as those that were attacked by the forces of the Great Arab Revolt and Lawrence nearly a century ago.

Famed for its preserved coral reefs and unique sea life, the Red Sea port city of Aqaba was, in ancient times, the main port for shipments from the Red Sea to the Far East. The Mameluk Fort, one of the main historical land marks, rebuilt by the Mameluks in the sixteenth century. Square in shape and flanked by semicircular towers, the fort is marked with various inscriptions marking the latter period of the Islamic dynasty. The current excavations at the ancient site of early Islamic town Ayla with its two main streets intersecting in the middle dates back to the 7th Century already revealed a gate and city wall along with towers, buildings and a mosque. The museum houses a collection of artifacts collected in the region, including pottery and coins. Other places of interest include the mud brick building thought to be the earliest church in the region.
 
The ancient city of Petra is one of Jordan's national treasures and by far its best known tourist attraction. Located approximately three hours south of Amman, Petra is the legacy of the Nabataens, an industrious Arab people who settled in southern Jordan more than 2000 years ago. Admired then for its refined culture, massive architecture and ingenious complex of dams and water channels, Petra is now a UNESCO world heritage site that enchants visitors from all corners of the globe. Much of Petra's appeal comes from its spectacular setting deep inside a narrow desert gorge. The site is accessed by walking through a kilometre long chasm (or siq), the walls of which soar 200 metres upwards. Petra's most famous monument, the Treasury, appears dramatically at the end of the siq. Used in the final sequence of the film "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade", the towering facade of the Treasury is only one of myriad archaeological wonders to be explored at Petra. Various walks and climbs reveal literally hundreds of buildings, tombs, baths, funerary halls, temples, arched gateways, colonnaded streets and haunting rock drawings - as well as a 3000 seat open air theatre , a gigantic first century Monastery and a modern archeological museum, all of which can be explored at leisure.

Conventional Holidays. Jordan already caters to the more traditional vacationer who likes to combine a visit to an ancient site in the morning with a swim, a round of golf, or a game of tennis or bowling in the afternoon. The exciting new horizons in adventure tourism allow visitors to push themselves to new levels of adventure and endurance.

Quality hotels and restaurants throughout the country mean that thrill-seekers who want to pamper themselves inbetween adventure treks have a wide range of facilities to choose from:

Nature lovers. Nature enthusiasts have many options in Jordan: the vast, silent drama of Wadi Rum, the forested hills of central Jordan, or the plunging Jordan Rift Valley that includes the Dead Sea - the lowest spot on earth at 410 metres below sea level. The Red Sea resort of Aqaba is always warm, balmy, and enticing for divers and other watersports enthusiasts.

Activity Holidays. Horseback riders can take a few days to retrace the segments of the ancient Spice, Silk, and Frankincense Routes that pass through the green hills of Petra, Amman, and north Jordan. More daring riders will want to mount their Arabian steeds for a four-day trek through the eastern desert, stopping for rest and water at several early Islamic desert castles and caravan stations. This trip re-enacts the original Arabian pony express mail service that operated here in the 7th century.

Aqaba offers a full range of facilities for speedboating, scuba diving, snorkelling, sailing, fishing, swimming, water skiing, wind surfing, or simply loafing and sunning in the warm crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea. The sparkling purple mountains surrounding Aqaba beckon hikers who seek new adventures, and unconquered terrain.

Thrill-seekers who want to go beyond the ordinary will get into a helicopter or hot air balloon and rise to mountain-tops in Wadi Rum or around Petra, from where they can trek back down to earth. Gliding and private plane rentals are also available in Jordan, only from Marka Airport in Amman.

The Dead Sea. At 410 metres below sea level, the Dead Sea is the lowest place on earth. Jordan’s Dead Sea coast is one of the most spectacular natural and spiritual landscapes in the world and it remains as enticing to international visitors today as it was to kings, emperors, traders, and prophets in antiquity.

A large amount of investment in the area has provided the Dead Sea with new roads making the new and luxurious 5 Star Movenpick Hotel and Resort, 5 Star Jordan Valley Marriott, 5 Star Kempenski Ishtar Hotel, and 4 Star Dead Sea Spa Hotel easily accessible.

The main attraction of the Dead Sea is of course the soothing, abnormally salty water itself. The salt content of the water is 31.5% - making the water so buoyant that it is impossible for the visitor to sink. The water also contains 21 minerals including high levels of magnesium, sodium, potassium, and bromine and 12 of these minerals are found in no other body of water in the world.

If you are interested in going to Jordan, have a chat with our leisure consultants who will be pleased to find out more about your preferences and plan your ideal holiday for you in this fascinating country

Fancourt is South Africa's premier golfing leisure resort, situated at the foot of the majestic Outenique Mountains, at the heart of the Garden Route. Five restaurants offer a variety of dining experiences from La Cantina's authentic Italian fare to the freshly prepared seafood dishes of Le Pecheur. Relax and rejuvenate at Fancourt's Health & Beauty Spa in the most tranquil of settings, or enjoy its four world-class Gary Player designed golf courses offering a array of experiences.

Fancourt has three highly rated Championship golf courses; Links, Montague, and Outeniqua, as well as the Western Cape's premier 18-hole public course, Bramble Hill. Since opening in the early 90's with just 27 Gary Player-designed holes, Fancourt's Outeniqua and Montagu golf courses have matured and developed into two of the finest 18-hole parkland layouts in South Africa. A round on either is a special experience, sculpted and finished as they are with rare attention to detail and designed with the coastal George winds in mind.

In addition to four golf courses suited to every type of golfer, Fancourt boasts one of the finest golf academies in the world, with state-of-the-art practice and teaching facilities, backed up by the expertise of PGA professionals, as well as several well-stocked on-course pro shops offering all types of golf merchandise.

Finland’s role as a bridge between east and west has been established through the centuries, but has gained renewed importance over the last decade with the liberalisation of the former Eastern bloc. New EU member Estonia is only 80 km from Helsinki by sea, and warmer relations with Russia mean more travel to and from St Petersburg and Moscow by rail, sea, road and air.

Helsinki has been boosted by a growing number of low-cost flights, making it readily accessible. The Finnish lake district is a popular holiday area especially for the domestic and Nordic markets, while Lapland – in the far north – is growing as an adventure destination. An unusual fact about Finland is that winter is a stronger draw than summer for visitors from some countries, who are keen to try Finland’s improving downhill ski resorts as well as winter activities including snowmobile, dog sledge and reindeer safaris as well as encounters with the Sami people. 

Lapland also dominates the market for Santa Claus breaks, mainly from the UK. In December hundreds of charter flights arrived at Rovaniemi, Kittila and other northern centres bringing families on day trips or short breaks to meet Santa Claus and discover the delights of winter. For UK visitors, after December, which is of course the busiest month, January and February are in second and third places.

Why not have a short break where you can be sure the climate will give you more than a touch of frost, and in a country that can guarantee an experience to remember?

Astra (one of our leisure travel consultants) recently went on a trip to find out more about historic Riga, the capital of Latvia, a country she had never visited. The following is a summary of her report:

"I can warmly recommend a short break in Riga. My journey to Riga International Airport from London on Air Baltic was comfortable and uneventful. I was surprised at just how quickly I was able to claim my bags! No sooner had I reached arrivals then my bags appeared.
 
As we made our way into the centre of Riga (approx 15 minutes by car) I was immediately taken by the beautiful architecture, a mix of Art Nouveau and colourful 15th century designs.

Crossing The River Daugava we passed the magnificent Riga Castle, residence of the first lady president Vaira Vike-Freiberga.

We arrived at our hotel in no time. The Hotel Europa Royale is a new luxury hotel housed in a restored 19th Century Mansion, once home to the writers’ guild and very centrally located across from Vermanes Garden.

Starting from these Gardens, one of Riga’s oldest parks and a wonderful place for relaxation and the arts, we embarked the following morning upon a guided city walk.
 
The garden plays homage to Kr. Barons a compiler of Latvian folk songs who also appears on the 100 Lat note. Did you know that there are around 2 million national folk songs? That’s approximately 1 song per Latvian!

Also located in these famous gardens is The Latvian National Opera Theatre, which stages a wealth of classical and modern productions.

In the heart of the park we found the Freedom Monument (Brivibas Iela) designed by famous Latvian architect Karlis Zale. Fondly nicknamed Milda, a female bronze casting holds up 3 golden stars which symbolise 3 Latvian regions; Latgale, Kurzeme and Victzeme. The friezes around the base depict Latvians singing, working and fighting for their freedom. A popular activity for locals is to place fresh flowers at the base to commemorate the mass deportation of Latvians to Siberia under oppressive Soviet rule in 1949. Guards of honour stand at the base from 09.00 to 20.00.

From Vermanes Garden we were guided towards Riga Old Town, which has been included on the UNESCO world heritage list as one of the world’s largest and best preserved areas of Art Nouveau buildings. It is a city with architecture that reflects the country’s turbulent history from 1201 to present day.

Riga Old Town is also host to many clubs, restaurants and bars with much to offer those looking for a base to explore the individual boutiques and quaint market square, located adjacent to The Three Brothers.

Some of the must see sights to include in an Old Town tours are:

Three Brothers – These are the best example of medieval residential buildings, the oldest of which was constructed in the 15th Century.

House of Black Heads – First documented in 1334 and occupied by The Black Heads Merchant Guild. The Black Heads were an organisation of unmarried foreign merchants. This beautiful Gothic building was totally destroyed in WWII and later rebuilt as an exact replica. Every historic and listed building, once it decays beyond repair, must be rebuilt to exact original specifications, to preserve Latvia’s heritage.

Dome Cathedral – Is the largest Cathedral in the Baltic States. Founded at the beginning of the 13th Century under Bishop Albert, this vast Cathedral has become an icon of Old Town Riga. In past centuries it has been destroyed and rebuilt several times, and therefore plays host to a variety of architectural styles.

As if all this wasn’t enough to whet our sightseeing appetites, we went onto Riga’s Lido Recreation Centre for lunch. A quirky log cabin, equipped with its very own windmill. The Lido offers a full variety of food and live entertainment. Lunch was served in a delicious array of Latvian cuisine; stuffed tomatoes, marinated wild mushrooms and an abundance of smoked meat and fish. Whilst the inside was delightfully seasonal there was plenty to catch your eye and put you in the Christmas mood with an outdoor skating rink a huge Christmas tree and several Christmas displays.

From the Lido we continued with credit cards burning holes in our pockets to The Bergs Bazaar. Kristaps Bergs originally created this shopping and residential enclave between 1887-1900 and has since undergone a radical face-lift, celebrating its original splendour whilst incorporating modern state-of-the-art facilities.

My favourite shop was Emila Gustava Sokolade, a chocolatiers where I sinfully indulged in a gloriously rich hot chocolate, which in my opinion far exceeds the chocolatiers in Belgium.
 
Also located in The Bergs Bazaar is The Hotel Bergs, which made it onto the 2005 Tatler’s guide as one of the top ten luxury boutique hotels in the world.

We finished off our day with a meal at The Reval Hotel Latvia followed by cocktails at the Skyline bar. On the 26th Floor of the hotel The Skyline Bar provides an excellent position from which to admire Riga’s sights.

The morning of Day two saw us take a visit to Rundale Palace (Rundales Pils), a former summer residence of The Duke of Courland, Ernst Johann Biron.

Approximately 1 hour outside of Riga this beautiful palace is one of Latvia’s most popular historic tourist attractions and is home to Latvia’s largest Collection of Baroque and Rococo Art.

From there we moved on to The Mezotne Palace Hotel for lunch where we enjoyed a delightful 3-course meal. The Mezotne Palace Hotel is set in the Latvian countryside on the banks of The River Lielupe. The landscape rather reflects that of a country manor in rural England. I believe that The Mezotne Hotel would make a great escape from Riga as part of a multi centre trip in Latvia.

The last part of the day saw us make our way through to Jurmala approximately 20 minutes drive from the Capital Riga.

Since the 19th Century, Jurmala has been a playground for large numbers of tourists due to its location on the Baltic Sea and miles of white sand. It has also been closely linked with health and well-being and as a result boasts a large number of luxury spas

I was struck again by the Latvian architecture. To me the little wooden houses and hotels all painted in different pastel colours very much reminded me of a toy town. This theme carried through to the main pedestrian street where I found an abundance of café bars, bistros and shops. I am sure in the summer months these provide a pleasant evening after a full day on the beach.

On day three, I decided to treat myself with a little something at The Jurmala Spa hotel. My first impressions of the Spa were great modern décor, relaxed atmosphere with intimate surroundings. I have to be honest that the massage itself was fairly rough and not as relaxing as I had hoped but I am sure that someone more experienced would have found the treatment exhilarating!

The rest of the morning I spent browsing through the shops and indulging in fabulous cups of hot chocolate before my flight back home.

What more can I say, except I am already looking to take my partner, best friend and her husband for a short break to Latvia next year! "

-------------------------- 

Thank you, Astra, for this report. As you can see, Latvia makes a great destination for a short break. Why not contact Astra for first hand advice, and ask her to arrange your next break based on Riga?

Montenegro is predicting 700,000 overnight stays by UK holidaymakers in five years time – up from 75,000 projected for 2006.

According to the National Tourism Organisation of Montenegro, more tour operators are considering a return to the Adriatic nation following some, such as Thomson, featuring the country.

The country also expects to attract low cost airlines, particularly following the modernisation and expansion of the Podgorica and Tivat Airports.

Director Vojin Vlahovic said the country's new tourism strategic aim was to attract more discerning visitors by encouraging private investment for modernising existing hotels and building new resorts. Montenegro also wants to diversify its tourism offering, particularly with developments in active tourism, wellness, meetings and incentives.

A key element in the country's recent development has been the privatisation and subsequent modernisation of hotels. Ten new hotels are expected to open in 2007, adding 5,000 new beds to the country's offering.  

Negotiations with international developers and investors are in place for new, upscale hotel resorts, luxury yacht clubs and marinas.

The annual growth rate of approximately 15% experienced since 2002 will have to accelerate rapidly if the targets are to be met. For those of our clients who prefer their holidays to be “off the beaten track”, we suggest you visit Montenigro sooner rather than later.Contact our specialist consultants for ideas about a memorable European holiday with a distinct difference.

Bangkok has changed into a modern, vibrant city over the past decade. Visitors are offered all the amenities of a world-class city without having to miss its unique cultural identity.  It has a seemingly endless number of attractions - the city is dotted with 400 beautiful Buddhist temples, grand palaces, classical dance extravaganzas, numerous shopping centres and a mind blowing array of restaurants. These offer not only Thai food but also Indian, Arabian, European, Chinese, Japanese, Mexican – you name it , it is there! – covering a wide range of prices levels.

One can see examples of the traditional ways of life, especially along the Chao Phraya River. A trip along its waters will reveal a network of canals and the old Bangkok, which lives on in its floating markets. The Silom Night Market and Chatujik Weekend Market are other major attractions. If you wish to spend some time there and then enjoy exploring the country, or fancy a beach holiday as well, contact our specialist consultants who will be pleased to tailor a holiday to suit your preferences.