Welcome...
TRAVEL
Welcome to the latest issue of our regular travel
magazine. As the long nights close in we recommend
that you draw inspiration from the following features
when considering future travel plans.
Perhaps a long weekend or two to a classic European
city will help to soften the course of the winter. In this
issue we visit both Athens and Rome, two of the truly
classical capitals of Southern Europe.
The spectacle of India is at its very best when touring
the Royal cities of Rajasthan, but for those who want to
broaden the experience then why not consider
combining the traditional circuit with a visit to one or
more of the tiger reserves and national parks of the
neighbouring state of Madhya Pradesh.
BY DESIGN
Classic beach resorts across the world offer
opportunities to escape to the sun all year round and
this issue offers a diverse selection to consider from the
Caribbean to the Indian Ocean. For those wanting a bit
of adult sophistication or a romantic retreat you will
find some great options in Cyprus, Mexico and
Mauritius.
Whether you are looking for a “trip of a lifetime”, a winter
sun getaway, a luxury city break or just news on some
of the world’s finest hotels and resorts we are sure this
issue will interest you, so sit back, have a read, then give
us a call to discuss your next holiday.
Bon Voyage...
Kristina & Irene Hulme
For a truly wilderness journey we are delighted to
showcase expedition cruising with Silversea in
Antarctica, an amazing opportunity to retrace the steps
of polar explorers, but with the comforts of a modern
day luxury cruise ship specially designed for the region.
Published by Travelspeak Limited - 020 8944 6050 - www.travelspeak.co.uk
28 London Road, Alderley Edge
Cheshire SK9 7DZ
Tel: 01625
Issue 8
6
Managing Partners
584195
Email: [email protected]
10
14
3
European News
14
Taj, Tiger Trails & Beyond
4
A Cultured City
16
The White Continent
6
La Dolce Vita
18
Asian Discoveries
8
Adult Pleasures
20
Beachfront Lifestyle
10
Magical Settings
22
World News
12
Mexico Lindo
18
European & Mediterranean News
Four Seasons Hotel Lion Palace, St
Petersburg ...a stunning achievement!
Just two blocks from the
Winter Palace and Hermitage
Museum, the House with the
Lions began life as the
palace of Princess LobanovaRostovskaya in 1820. Its
distinctive triangular layout
adjoins St. Isaac’s Square,
home to the famous St. Isaac’s
Cathedral, designed by the
same architect – Auguste de
Montferrand. The palace has
been carefully restored, and
boasts several
heritage
protected areas. The hotel
offers 183 spacious and comfortable guest rooms, including
26 suites, featuring state-of-the art amenities to satisfy the
needs of the most discerning customers. Dining in the hotel
is led by Michelin-starred Executive Chef Andrea Accordi,
and the options include glass-roofed Tea Lounge, signature
Italian restaurant Percorso and Xander Bar with live fire place.
Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Lake Como, a
beautiful place where “No” is unacceptable
Dating back to 1910 and Art Nouveau in style, the family
owned Grand Hotel Tremezzo commands one of the
most enchanting positions on Lake Como with
spectacular panoramic views of the town of Bellagio, the
Riviera delle Azalee and the stunning Grigne Mountains.
The hotel has a beautiful table for 2 in a corner of the
garden which is wonderfully secluded with fantastic
views of the lake. This table, named ‘Dis Moi Oui’, is
famously booked by a number of couples looking to
propose in one of the most romantic spots on Lake Como.
L'Apogée Courchevel, the new jewel of the French Alps
Situated in the heart of the French Alps and boasting an outstanding “ski-in skiout” location and breathtaking views of Courchevel Village; L'Apogée Courchevel
is the newest masterpiece of the Oekter Collection. The resort will comprise 33
bright and beautiful suites, 20 spacious double rooms, a detached 5-bedroom
chalet and a spectacular penthouse, all offering spectacular views of the slopes
and village. All accommodation will be contemporary in style with state-of-theart facilities. The restaurant, Le Comptoir de L'Apogée, is a luxury brasserie under
the supervision of two Michelin-starred Chef Yannick Franques serving French
artisanal cuisine, with a chic and modern twist, in a relaxed environment.
Opening
11th Dec
2013
The Canny Traveller ...the ABC of protected travel arrangements
Dealing with emergencies and unforeseen events are fundamental reasons to ensure that you
have adequate protection and insurance at the time of booking and whilst taking a well-earned
holiday. Good travel agents and tour operators will give you security through:
ATOL:
Air Travel Organisers Licence. The scheme protects you from losing money or
being stranded abroad when a travel firm goes out of business.
Bonding:
Check that your travel provider has membership with an approved body such
as ABTA; the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust (ABTOT); the
Association of Independent Tour Operators (AITO); or the Federation of Tour
Operators (FTO)
Cover:
You should, however, always ask your travel company if financial protection
applies to ALL your travel arrangements. If it doesn’t, the company may be
able to offer suitable insurance to cover you.
A Cultured City
The re-invention of Athens.
I
t may come as a bit of a surprise to learn that for many
years Athens languished as little more than a
provincial village, a relatively humble place albeit with
some quite astonishing classical ruins that spoke of
a grander past, which had faded completely by the
time of the Ottoman Empire in Greece (1450’s to 1821).
This all changed in the 1830’s when it was chosen to serve
as the national capital of the modern Greek State. Grand
boulevards, open parks and Neoclassical residences were
built and by the turn of the 20th century, Athens was once
again a cultured metropolis. Massive expansion after World
War II led to unsympathetic redevelopment, but this was
radically corrected in preparation for the 2004 Olympics. Today,
a series of pedestrianised zones link all the major archeological
sites making Athens a definite “must see” for culture buffs. The
districts at the foot of the Acropolis, Anafiotika, Plaka, Monastiraki
and Thissio are also home to many wonderful Neoclassical
buildings, trendy and traditional cafes and shops, narrow
winding streets, all sharing incredible views of the Acropolis.
To many the draw to any city is the richness of its social
scene and in this respect Athens will not disappoint. There
are more theatres and music halls than any other
European capital. It also has a vibrant nightlife that really
gears up when most other cities are turning off the lights!
Greeks are famous for their socialising, and whilst this is less
evident at the height of the summer heat, (as people
relocate to the coast), a visit to the city from early autumn
through to late spring will find Athens at its prime, with
ambient temperatures, clear skies and a buzz in the streets.
Left: The Erechtheion at the Acropolis (pictured above)
4
Hotel Grande Bretagne
A Luxury Collection Hotel, Athens
L
ocated right in the heart of Athens as well as
within walking distance of exclusive shopping
areas and museums, the Hotel Grande Bretagne
enjoys the ideal location in the city centre. This eight
story 19th-century building exudes wealth and
refinement from the first impression while it has been
repeatedly awarded by significant international
communities.
With meticulous attention to detail, the 320 rooms and
suites marry charming old-world elegance with state-ofthe-art facilities whereas the 61 suites enjoy additional
benefits including personalised Butler Service.
Guests can indulge themselves within the GB Spa and
experience the utmost dining service within the GB Roof
Garden, the Winter Garden, the Alexander’s Bar or the
Alexander’s Cigar Lounge.
King George
A Luxury Collection Hotel, Athens
S
ituated in the centre of Athens since 1930, King
George, Athens represents the absolute essence
of a fascinating boutique hotel. With 102 rooms
& suites and incomparable views of the Parthenon, it
also encapsulates the unique experience of a Penthouse
Suite with private outdoor pool.
Located on the 7th floor, the Tudor Hall Restaurant &
Lounge features a unique neo-classical décor, unrivaled
views of the Acropolis, Modern Greek cuisine and
signature cocktails.
The inviting environment of the King George finds its best
expression in the outstanding and personalised service.
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Opening
Early
2014
La Dolce Vita
A very special way to experience the Eternal City at L’angolo di San Pietro.
R
ome is one of the world’s greatest cities,
with a historical legacy that spans over two
thousands years; the glorious heart of the
ancient Roman Empire, a great Renaissance centre,
headquarters of the Catholic Church and most
recently the hectic capital of a modern and
vivacious Italy. It is a place to be savoured, explored
and enjoyed certainly more than once in a lifetime.
Of course when it comes to staying in the
Eternal City, there are some very grand
hotels, but for a more privileged
experience with an emphasis on
customised, luxury hospitality, there
is now a very exclusive address at
the very edge of the Vatican City,
L’angolo di San Pietro.
Representing the first of a number
of prestige openings in prime
locations across the centre
of Rome, L’angolo di
San Pietro, is an ultra
boutique yet informal
luxury hotel
occupying a
new, state-
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of-the-art contemporary building steps away from
St Peter’s Basilica. Offering just nine deluxe rooms
and suites, including the rooftop Top San Pietro
Suite with its dramatic views onto St Peter’s as well
as a very private terrace with a sumptuous
outdoor jacuzzi pool, this is a hotel that will thrive
on a deep understanding of the individual needs
of its guests and how to maximise their enjoyment
of the city. In due course guests will also have the
choice of two further boutique properties, BE
Independent Spagna (Piazza di Spagna) and BE
Independent Stelletta, close to the Pantheon.
At each property choice and comfort start at the
guests’ point of arrival with complimentary luxury
transfers to and from train stations and airports
within Rome. This is continued throughout the stay
with a complimentary 24-hour chauffered service in
Rome or, for the more spirited, free usage of either
a Vespa 50 moped or Rome’s favourite little car, the
eponymous Fiat 500.
Attention to detail is mirrored within the hotel, with
private butler service and guest room pre-selection
from a range of deluxe top brand toiletries, pillows,
sheets and the contents of room minibars. Modern
appliances including a 52” flat screen TV, Nespresso
Coffee machine and two Ipad 3 tablets per room
add to the comforts. All that remains is to immerse
oneself in Rome and... “La Dolce Vita”.
Vlad G / Shutterstock.com
Ancient Rome
The Sistine Chapel
The building blocks for the “Eternal” City
and other treasures of the Vatican City
It is possible to see the fabric of an ancient city amid the
preserved and restored Roman ruins of buildings like
the Colosseum and the Pantheon as well as the open
spaces of the Forum, but Rome delivers a much wider
spectacle, for as you stroll up her streets and hills you
can admire a myriad of buildings, most in use that have
been modified and embellished over two millenia.
The Vatican Museums are a series of buildings
and collections of rare magnificence and
include the partially open to the public
Apostolic Palace. Here there are inestimable
works of art collected or commissioned by
various pontiffs over 500 years of history, such
as the Sistine Chapel and the Raphael Rooms
as well as other important Renaissance
masterpieces by artists such as Caravaggio,
Tiziano, Leonardo da Vinci and Giotto.
Shopping Treats
Via Condotti, Via Borgognona & Via Frattina
The modern treasures of Rome are to be
admired in the windows of the high fashion
shops that line three parallel streets between
the Spanish Steps and Via del Corso. The
spiritual home of brands like Bulgari, Ferre,
Battistoni and Salvatore Ferregamo sit side by
side with important international visitors like
Tiffany, Jimmy Choo and Louis Vuitton to name
but a few. Shop in style knowing that your
chauffeur will be at hand to return you safely to
the sanctuary of L’angolo di San Pietro.
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Adult Pleasures
Escape to the sheer refinement of The Asimina Suites in Cyprus.
T
he Asimina Suites is a boutique style all-suite
hotel designed exclusively for adults only
offering guests superb hotel facilities in an
impressive beach side setting in Paphos, Cyprus.
The Asimina has 119 luxurious suites ranging
from junior suites to one bedroom suites and
Executive suites with private pool and Jacuzzi.
The suites are spacious and designed in a
contemporary style providing modern
conveniences including Free Wi- Fi, DVD players
and Espresso machines.
The hotel is a discerning choice for couples who
appreciate a luxurious and tranquil
environment with impeccable standards of
service and hospitality with three relaxing bars
and a choice of four restaurants including a
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gourmet a la carte restaurant and the ‘Kymata’
beach front restaurant.
A wide range of leisure facilities are available
including a large lagoon style pool with
Jacuzzis, private beach cabanas, the Elixir Spa
offering thalassotherapy and aromatherapy
treatments as well as gym, massage, steam
room, sauna facilities and an indoor pool.
The Asimina Suites are offering guests a free
upgrade to half board for all summer 2014
arrivals for all holidays booked by 30th April
2014. The half board upgrade provides guests
with a choice of three restaurants including the
Kymata a la carte restaurant.
Please call for further details.
Clockwise from top left:
Executive Suite with private pool - interior shot
Beach Cabanas
Executive Suite with private pool - exterior shot
The main pool
“Al fresco” at Kymata beach front restaurant
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Magical Settings
Angsana Balaclava Mauritius ...where the sun always sets in style.
N
estled on the North West coast of Mauritius,
in a secluded corner of Turtle Bay, Angsana
Balaclava Mauritius, the island’s premier 5 star
boutique resort, offers a very romantic hideaway ideal
for couples and honeymooners looking for privacy
and barefoot relaxation.
Benefiting from the protection of the surrounding
Moka mountains, the resort enjoys some of the most
favourable year round weather conditions in Mauritius,
and there are few evenings when the performance of
the setting sun over the ocean does not gift incurable
romantics with the most idyllic backdrop.
Having opened just under two years ago, guests will
discover a small but perfectly designed retreat
composed of just 51 suites and one indulgent villa. In
keeping with the high design ethics of Banyan Tree
Hotels & Resorts, the property is rich in architectural
detail, and is a splendid fusion of Oriental, Occidental
& African influences.
There are four types of suite - Garden Suite, Deluxe
Pool Suite, Ocean View Pool Suite and Beachfront Pool
Suite - of which the latter three types come with their
own private plunge pools. If being close to the sea is
the preference then the Beachfront Pool Suites offer
possibly the closest accommodation to the ocean in
Mauritius. For the ultimate indulgence, the Imperial
Pool Villa is located on its own private beachfront with
three private pools (a huge infinity pool as well as a jet
pool and Children’s pool).
At the centre of the resort two swimming pools
overlap via waterfalls, leading off the extensive
seawater “Laguna” pool with sand ‘beach’, with a fresh
water lap pool below. There is also an indoor vitality
pool at the award-winning Angsana Spa.
A variety of dining options include Asian Fusion cuisine
at the main restaurant, Oryza, and classic grill options
including seafood favourites like barbecued lobster at
the beachfront Passion Grill. The latter will be featuring
Mediterranean specialties in the evening also. Bespoke
private dining is a popular alternative, either in the
privacy of one’s suite or villa or at a specially set up
table for two on a remote corner of the beach.
Angsana Balaclava Mauritius makes for an idyllic
tropical dream beach holiday and yet it offers even
more to those who want to experience the sights of
the island. It lies just 15 minutes drive in between the
shopping of the capital, Port Louis and, in the opposite
direction, the buzzy strip of Grand Baie.
www.angsana.com
10
Spectacular beachfront location, Paradisus Cancún
Mexico Lindo
*
Discover Mexico with Paradisus Resorts ...the pure freedom to just be.
I
ts tropical climate, dazzling landscapes,
exquisite cuisine and rich history that
reflects in its alluring array of traditions
make of Mexico a perfect destination that
caters to all kinds of travellers. Whether
you are looking for a romantic getaway, a
trip down to history lane from the Spanish
colonisation to the Mayan and Aztec
civilisations, a retreat to delight your palate
or simply a relaxing holiday to unwind
from a hectic schedule, Mexico offers it all.
Amongst a wide choice of destinations is
Playa del Carmen, a small fishing village
that has now evolved into a flourishing
oasis by the sea offering all sorts of
activities from scuba diving to golf as well
as a vast selection of restaurants, bars and
shopping facilities.
* Beautiful Mexico
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Paradisus Playa del Carmen
A unique lush all inclusive experience
A stunning private bay provides the backdrop for
Paradisus Playa del Carmen, a gem amongst the Riviera
Maya resorts made up by two different properties:
Paradisus Playa del Carmen La Esmeralda, a resort
designed for families, and Paradisus Playa del Carmen La
Perla, an adults only resort. Both properties deliver the
perfect Playa del Carmen holiday for those in search of
discreetly attentive personalised service and exclusivity
blended with exceptional dining experiences offering
plenty of choices to satisfy and delight even the most
demanding gourmet lovers; this includes a fine dining
restaurant by six Michelin Star Chef Martín Berasategui.
Paradisus Playa del Carmen also boasts an splendid YHI
Spa, in which you can indulge your senses and balance
body and soul, and a great choice of life enriching
activities to be practised within the resort.
Luxury Junior Suite, Paradisus Playa del Carmen La Perla
Private check-in at Paradisus Rio de Oro
ROYAL Service
Kids pool at Paradisus Playa del Carmen La Esmeralda
All Paradisus Resorts offer the opportunity to upgrade
to Royal Service, an option that truly goes beyond your
expectations. From your private check in, when you are
presented a mobile phone to reach your personal
butler when needed, to the lavish suite
accommodations the Royal Service offers countless
benefits to ensure that your stay is absolutely
unforgettable: upgraded amenities, personalised turndown service, pillow menu, in room Jacuzzi preparation,
daily newspaper delivery, in-room coffee service,
minibars stocked daily to suit your preferences as well
as preferential reservations at the YHI Spa, activities and
excursions not to mention the private Royal Service
pools and beach areas with valet service and an a la
carte restaurant and VIP lounge where evening cocktail
and hors d’oeuvres are served in the evening.
Adults Only “downtime” at GabiClub, Paradisus
Playa del Carmen La Perla
Paradisus Cancún
Paradisus Rio de Oro, Cuba
Where natural beauty meets superior service.
A unique lush all inclusive experience
Located on the soft white sand beaches of Cancún, a
holiday favourite destination, and only a mere 15 minute
ride from the airport and from downtown Cancún, this
magnificent resort provides an exclusive experience
within its exceptional facilities that encompass nine
restaurants and seven bars focused on the highest
quality food, also including a fine dining restaurant,
Tempo, by celebrated Michelin Star Chef Martín
Berasategui. The resort boasts four lagoon–inspired
pools, and offers a variety of activities such as tennis, golf
in its nine – hole par 3 golf course, a Kids Club and a YHI
Spa to ensure that your holiday is truly unforgettable.
The Paradisus Brand includes properties in three different
countries, including Cuba where the Paradisus Rio de Oro is
located on the northern coast of Holguin. This adults only
property, situated right opposite a stunning coral reef,
surrounded by some of the most beautiful beaches in the
Caribbean and integrated with the tropical forest, offers the
most exclusive service whilst in direct contact with nature.
The Rio de Oro includes eight speciality restaurants and
nine bars offering fine cuisine to ensure a unique
gastronomic experience. The resort also offers a YHI Spa and
a wide range of outdoor activities and water sports to be
practised in what Christopher Columbus once described as
“the most beautiful land that human eyes have ever seen”.
These are only a few options that Meliá Hotels International puts at your disposal. With more than 350 hotels in 35 countries and four continents, the Spanish
hotel chains caters for all travellers under its eight brands: Meliá, Gran Meliá, ME by Meliá, Paradisus, INNSIDE, TRYP by Wyndham, Sol, and Club Meliá.
13
Tiger Trails,Taj & Beyond
India’s finest jungle and safari lodges.
1.
Jaipur
New Delhi
Agra
State of
Madhya Pradesh
B
reaking new ground in India, a
joint venture between Taj Hotels,
Resorts and Palaces and safari
specialists, &Beyond, offers India’s first
and only wildlife circuit.
&Beyond's collaboration with Taj Hotels
rests on decades of expertise in
operating luxury jungle safari lodges
both in Africa and worldwide, offering
unique wildlife experiences, coupled
with legendary service in hospitality.
The first lodge in this circuit, Mahua
Kothi, opened for guests in 2006; after
which 3 more lodges were added to the
portfolio, Baghvan - Pench National
Park, Pashan Garh - Panna National Park
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and last was, Banjaar Tola - Kanha
National Park completing the tiger
circuit.
The four jungle lodges in India’s central
state of Madhya Pradesh, are renowned
for delivering exciting wildlife
adventures and extraordinary local
culinary experiences. As food is an
integral part of Indian culture, it is a
major draw card attracting visitors to
the country. At all lodges, local chefs
celebrate the vast regional flavours of
the central state in interactive kitchens
where guests can participate and learn
delicious new recipes between
interpretive game drives.
Mumbai
Pashan Garh
Panna National Park
Mahua Kothi
Bandhavgarh National Park
Banjaar Tola
Kanha National Park
Baghvan
Pench National Park
Dining in the woods at Mahua Kohti
Bedroom and private outdoor sala, Pashan Gahr
Poolside at Baghvan
Tented Guest Suite at Banjaar Tola
Royal Tiger Safari
combining the sights of Rajasthan with the Taj Safaris “Tiger Circuit”
In addition to delicious Indian food,
guests enjoy twice-daily game drives
with &Beyond-trained naturalists to
explore the diverse wildlife of the jungles
in the national parks of Madhya Pradesh
Taj Safaris offers its guests the rare
opportunity of Elephant Back Safaris. The
experience is a unique and exciting way
to explore the wilderness around the
Indian Jungle on the back of these
lumbering gentle giants. Learn about
these incredible creatures while taking in
all the sights, smells and sounds of India.
Elephant back safaris are subject to
availability and are conducted in Mahua
Kothi and Banjaar Tola only.
A 17-day Royal Tiger Safari unveils the beauty, mysticism and
timeless appeal of north central India, from the bustling city
of New Delhi to the vast jungle wilderness of Bandhavgarh,
Pench and Kanha National Park. Explore India's vibrant
capital, with its dazzling palaces and cultural highlights.
Move on to the beautiful architecture and romantic origins
of the celebrated Taj Mahal. Journey to the Pink City of
Jaipur. Track tiger from the back of an elephant in some of
India's richest national reserves. Explore the ancient
sandstone temples at Khajuraho, with their intricate artwork.
2 nts Taj Mahal Hotel, New Delhi - 1 nt Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra
2 nts Rambagh Palace, Jaipur - 3 nts Baghvan
3 nts Banjaar Tola - 3 nts Mahua Kohti - 2 nts Pashan Gahr
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The
White
Continent
Antarctic expedition cruising with Silver Explorer.
E
xperience Antarctica with an expedition
cruise and discover a wilderness of
glistening white as far as the eye can see.
Natural ice sculptures like enormous works of
avant-garde art. A place unlike anywhere else on
earth where unique nature and wildlife species
exist and in fact thrive despite the harsh climate.
Designed for cruising the world’s most remote
destinations, the purpose-built expedition ship,
Silver Explorer can venture into Antarctica – the
modern explorer’s final frontier. Silversea
expedition itineraries allow for the ultimate in
moment-to-moment flexibility. Stay longer at
sites of interest or make slight detours whenever
weather, nature or mere
curiosity dictate.
The intimate 132guest vessel is an
ideal size, ensuring
that everyone
can participate
16
on complimentary daily zodiac excursions. The
spirit of adventure and discovery is enhanced by a
superb team of expert naturalists and supported
onboard with specialist lectures throughout the
trip by guest lecturers.
A voyage to Antarctica aboard Silver Explorer is
an all-inclusive tour de force that will appeal to
modern day adventurers with an appetite for
luxury in the wilderness. All suites have an
ocean-view and benefit from butler service.
Even the in-suite bar and refrigerator is stocked
to a particular guest’s preference. Open-seating
dining is accompanied with gourmet selections
by Relais & Châteaux and complimentary
champagne, wines and spirits are served
throughout the ship. However, in deference to
the style of cruise, there are no formal evenings
and attire is always informal. Furthermore,
suitable equipment for Antarctic exploration is
supplied
for
each
guest
including
complimentary
parkas,
water-resistant
backpacks and metal water bottles.
Highlights
s
Follow in the footsteps of the great
Antarctic explorers: Shackleton,
Scott, Fiennes, Ross and Stromness
to name a few
s
s
Marvel at calving glaciers
s
Hear the cries of penguins
multiplied by the thousands
s
See the unspeakable magnificence
of a whale surfacing from beneath
the frigid waters
s
Visit historic sites of early explorers
and the remains of whaling stations
Observe seals sunbathing on slow
moving ice floes
17
Asian Discoveries
The wonder and charm of Exotic Asia on board Seadream II.
A
sia, an exotic mix of cultures, languages and food,
is a seafarer’s dream. With marine access to
virtually every country in the region, there can be
no better way to explore the world’s largest and most
populous continent.
It is a region of the world where you will find a little bit of
everything: the flurry of trading in busy commercial
settings sitting cozily beside the serenity of temple life;
the gentle buzz of the rainforest within touching
distance of lazy, white sandy beaches.
From October 2013 through April 2014, SeaDream II will
explore new ground as she journeys across Asia on a series
of 18 unique voyages from her starting and finishing
points in the Mediterranean all the way down to Cairns in
Australia. En-route SeaDream II will visit destinations as
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diverse as the buzzing cities of Singapore, Bangkok and
Hong Kong as well as dropping anchor in idyllic places,
only possible with smaller vessels, in search of remote
white sand beaches and off the beaten track destinations.
SeaDream Yacht Club is different from big ship cruising,
where casual comfort and refined elegance are central
to the whole experience. With only 112 passengers being
pampered by an award-winning crew of 95, the level of
attention and service paid to each guest makes yachting
aboard SeaDream II feel as if you are on your own private
yacht. Indeed, one can be as active or as relaxed as one
wishes and take in the ultimate in luxury, privacy and
pampering.
Call now for the latest prices and availability.
“It’s yachting, not cruising”
Paiute, Thailand
Komodo Island, , Indonesia
Angkor Wat, Cambodia
It’s yachting, not cruising
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Beachfront Lifestyle
An all-exclusive experience in the Cayman Islands.
W
In fact, there are no all-inclusive resorts on Grand
Cayman. Caymanians are one of the happiest,
friendliest nations on earth. There are no ‘no-go’
areas, it is truly yours to explore.
With empty sun-drenched beaches on your
doorstep you can swim from dawn until dusk in
complete privacy, or explore the colourful reefs on
a little boat, moored on your own jetty.
Our villa lifestyle simply doesn’t come better. From
bijou Nineteenth Century cottages shaded by
seagrape trees to palatial oceanfront houses, you
can live like a local. Barefoot luxury doesn’t come
more gloriously barefoot or luxurious than this.
hat is the best way to experience a
Caribbean island that has more species
than the Galapagos and the most
beautiful beaches on earth? A private villa fits the
bill for many visitors to the Cayman Islands.
The appeal of an all-inclusive resort soon fades
when you can take your pick from over 200 superb
restaurants, picnic on a deserted beach, banter
with the fishermen at the local market or relax
while your chef prepares an al fresco dinner.
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The magic isn’t limited to Grand Cayman. Fly
across the Caribbean Sea in a 15-seat plane to
rugged Cayman Brac, or Little Cayman, a tiny coral
cay with spectacular snorkelling and diving. Its
population is outnumbered ten to one by the
island’s endemic iguanas, and cerulean skies are
filled with the largest colony of Red-footed boobies
in the Western Hemisphere.
Even here, one of the least-developed islands in the
world, your choice of accommodation is charmingly
eclectic. Dine-around island-style is by bike, unless
you opt for a gourmet picnic at Point of Sand – and
you won’t have to share the beach with another soul.
If a scattering of bungalows on a beach seems too
crowded look no further than century old Blossom
Village Cottage, with its white picket fence and sand
garden. For more up-to-the-moment living, choose
a sumptuous beach front villa with open air Jacuzzi.
Whichever you pick, you can be sure that your holiday
in the Cayman Islands will be perfectly all-exclusive.
21
World News
Relax in the most picturesque
setting at the Regent Bali
Silversea to explore the remote islands
of the Pacific with Silver Discoverer
isaxar/shutterstock.com
Situated in the exclusive Sanur District; where the
spectacular coral reef is complemented by picturepostcard swaying palms, white sandy beaches and
tempting turquoise waters, the newly opened Regent
Bali is the place to relax on the “Island of the Gods”.
There are 94 suites including Deluxe and Premier
classes with their own private spa treatment rooms.
There are also 25 two- and three-bedroom residences
to choose from, but undoubtedly the most luxurious is
the two-bedroom beachfront villa, which comes
complete with private pool, Jacuzzi and butler service.
The hotel includes its own 55-metre infinity pool, a spa
that specialises in Balinese massages and unique
treatments. Nearby attractions include the Gunung
Kawai Hindu Temple, Batur Mount Volcano, Ubud Art
Village and some of the country's most picturesque
rice terraces.
Silversea's loyal following of adventure travellers can
now explore the remote archipelagos of the vast
Pacific aboard the sleek, 128-guest Silver Discoverer.
She's the perfect platform for viewing these untamed
landscapes, with all ocean-view suites and plenty of
deck space so that a breaching whale or a pod of
dolphins is always within sight. Her shallow draft
allows her to navigate closer to shore, and with a fleet
of 12 Zodiacs and a glass-bottom boat, guests can
land on isolated shores and explore wetlands and
submerged ecosystems, up-close and in-depth.
Beginning March 2014, Silver Discoverer will follow
routes of ancient seafarers to some of the most
isolated ecosystems of Southeast Asia, Australia,
New Zealand, Micronesia, Melanesia and the Russian
Far East.
A slice of 60’s mojo with a twist of modern at Trident Hotel, San Antonio, Jamaica
Port Antonio is still the very much place to head to if
you are looking for the classic Jamaica that made the
area a celebrity haunt of the 60’s. With its sprawling
verdant green vegetation and rocky outcrops that slide
seamlessly into the crystal blue waters of the Caribbean
it is the perfect setting for a special Caribbean hotel.
Epitomising laid-back luxury and quintessential cool,
the Trident Hotel features 13 spacious studio, one- and,
two-bedroom villas with state-of-the-art room
amenities as well as private, heated plunge pools and
terraces overlooking the sea. The hotel, which was
creatively refurbished by music mogul owners Jon
Baker and Steve Beaver, offers its guests a truly sublime
experience.
22
TRAVEL
BY DESIGN
Travel by Appointment Service
Call in for information on our Travel by Appointment service and also our Honeymoon Portfolio of preferred destinations from active ski, shopping and sun combinations to total relaxation on a Caribbean beach…
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Telephone for an appointment to:
28 London Road, Alderley Edge,
Cheshire SK9 7DZ
Tel: 01625 584195
[email protected]