Club Med Ski Holiday Offers

Take advantage of the finest ski domains in France on a Club Med all-inclusive wintersports holiday.  Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned skier, with Club Med you can enjoy an all-inclusive holiday in real style.

With Club Med all-inclusive expect stunning locations, superb accommodation, gourmet food, endless bar drinks and snacks, fantastic children's clubs and a multitude of sports and activities.


Club Med currently have the following special offers available on ski and snowboard holidays in France

Peisey-Vallandry
7 days inc. flights & transfers (depart 12/12)
Now from £1,183pp

Val d'Isère
7 days inc. flights & transfers (depart 30/01)
Now from £1,289pp

Avoriaz
7 days inc. flights & transfers (depart 23/01)
Now from £1,020pp

La Plagne 2100
7 days inc. flights & transfers (depart 09/01)
Now from £1,125pp

Chamonix Mont - Blanc
7 days inc. flights & transfers (depart 16/01)
Now from £1,119pp

Tignes Val Claret
7 days inc. flights & transfers (depart 12/12)
Now from £1,053pp

Serre-Chevalier
7 days inc. flights & transfers (depart 09/01)
Now from £989pp

L' Alpe d'Huez La Sarenne
7 days inc. flights & transfers (depart 09/01)
Now from £999pp

Les Deux Alpes
7 days inc. flights & transfers (depart 16/01)
Now from £909pp

Arcs Extrême
7 days inc. flights & transfers (depart 09/01)
Now from £859pp

Les Ménuires
7 days inc. flights & transfers (depart 09/01)
Now from £940pp

Aime la Plagne
7 days inc. flights & transfers (depart 16/01)
Now from £889pp

To find out more about all these Club Med special offers visit the Club Med Website

Austrian Ski Holidays from Neilson

Austrian Ski Holidays from Neilson
Austria is home to picturesque villages, traditional family-run hotels and welcoming hospitality making it a great destination for package skiing holidays.

The stunning Alps mountain range covers most of Austria so it is hardly surprising that so many people opt for a skiing holiday in Austria. It is one of the worlds top ski destinations offering great terrain for all abilities, charming ski villages, warm, welcoming hospitality, breathtaking scenery and hearty and delicious cuisine.

Resorts
For a complete variety of skiing holidays, Austria has it all. Lively resorts such as St Anton, Solden and Saalbach-Hinterglemm are famed for their spirited après ski which starts in slopeside mountain bars early afternoon.

Quieter, family-orientated resorts such as Katschberg, Niederau, Oberau, Rauris and Galtur, are fantastic family ski destinations for unforgettable experiences.

Neilson features a selection of high altitude and glacier resorts in Austria. The Austrian glacier resorts of Kaprun, Mayrhofen and Solden virtually guarantee great snow conditions, plus many more resorts offer high altitude skiing such as Obergurgl, Hochgurgl, St Anton and St Christoph.

Ski Holidays in Austria - Highlights
• Choose from over a dozen original Austrian mountain village locations
• Authentic Austrian Apres-Ski in the lively and traditional Tirolean fashion
• The delicious mountain cooking and celebrated Konditorei cakes
• Many family-run and friendly accommodation options to suit families with young children
• Private limousine transfers direct to your accommodation
• Excellent skiing tuition from beginner to expert
• Skiing for beginners - Look out for the Neilson Learn to Turn for adult beginners
• Facilities for children - Look out for the our best familiy resorts
 
Find out more - Visit the Neilson Website

Andorra Ski Holiday Offers

Ski Holidays in Andorra from Neilson
Andorra has a reputation for outstanding ski schools, the latest lift systems and varied ski areas at a reasonable price, a recipe for great skiing holidays, particularly for beginners and families.

Andorra used to be thought of as the cheap and cheerful option with mainly budget accommodation options and great value apres ski. Thanks to huge investment over the past few years, the snowboarding and ski resorts in Andorra have changed significantly and they offer a whole lot more.

Neilson offers five great resorts in Andorra, namely Arinsal in the Vallnord ski area, and Soldeu, El Tarter & Pas de la Casa, part of the Grandvalira ski area. Each ski area boasts a wide range of confidence boosting beginner and intermediate level runs and some off-piste opportunities for more advanced skiers in some areas.

WINTER 2010/11 - SPECIAL OFFERS


- Pre-book 1 adult lift pass and receive free child lift passes for 6-11yrs - valid all season, all areas.

- Pre-book adult ski or board school and enrol your child in non-ski kindergarten for the duration of your lessons for €35 (Soldeu & El Tarter only). Childcare must be booked & paid for locally - valid all season

Ski Holidays in Andorra - Highlights


• World class instructor-led skiing tuition from beginner to expert make Andorra a Neilson recommended destination for learning how to ski & snowboard and improving techniques

• Skiing for beginners - Look out for our recommended Neilson 'Learn to Turn' resorts for beginner skiers and snowboarders - Arinsal, Soldeu & Pas de la Casa

• A choice of accommodation to suit all budgets

• Accommodation and resort facilities are varied to cater for families and groups

• Exciting investments in new ski areas and lift systems

• BRAND NEW W10/11 properties in Arinsal, Soldeu & El Tarter

• Great accommodation and resort facilities for families with children - Arinsal

• Great après ski

• Good value tax-free shopping

• Huge spa centre in Andorra La Vella

• Linked skiing ranges covering 192km of pistes
 
Find out more - Visit the Neilson Website
 

Huskies and the Northern Lights

Here's a truely unique once in a lifetime holiday experience... reindeer and husky sledding in northern Norway. Available between February and April 2011.

Nothing quite compares to the experience of travelling on a sled pulled by a reindeer or a team of huskies through magical snow-covered scenery. Northern Norway, and in particular the city of tromso, has some of the most dramatic scenery and wildlife in the world, all of which are waiting to be explored on this magical holiday.

Surrounded by beautiful, clear blue fjords and majestic mountains, the lively city of tromsø is known as the ‘gateway to the Arctic’. It’s the perfect base for your explorations of the region, surrounded by beautiful fjords and stunning wilderness.

This is the perfect winter wonderland holiday, with the added advantage that your tour guide will introduce you to the sami culture and way of life. Overnight Tromsø.

Delve into the culture of the Sami people on a full day at Camp Tamok. have a go at reindeer sledding, an integral part of sami culture, as you’ll be master of your own reindeer sled for a fantastic drive in pairs through the beautiful surroundings of the park. then take the opportunity have a go at throwing a lasso – an essential skill for sami reindeer herders.

As the sun starts to set over tromsø, you will drive out of the city to the Tromsø Wilderness Camp where you will put on a cold weather suit and boots (provided by the camp), ready for your husky sledding adventure. Nothing else in the world can compare to the feeling of being sat in a sledge covered with reindeer skins to keep warm, hearing nothing but the sound of the huskies running and the sledge carving across the snow-covered ground.

For more information telephone Page & Moy on 0845 358 2639

Springtime Flowers of Holland & Belgium

The Flowers of Holland and Springtime Belgium - 4 days with Leger Holidays.

A spring-time extravaganza to see the delights of Holland and Belgium in April.

Day 1 Local departure by coach then onwards to Antwerp or Mechelen for a three-night stay.

Day 2 Antwerp and Brussels (optional). Widely known for its diamonds, Antwerp has so much more with its charming narrow streets, large squares and café culture. We visit a diamond workshop and museum before heading for Brussels, seeing the Grand Place and the cheeky Manekin Pis Statue. For a fascinating insight into Brussels, our optional orientation tour will show you the best sights. B

Day 3 Keukenhof Park (included). Full day visit to Keukenhof Park to see the impressive blooms. Famed for its breathtaking horticultural displays every year, Keukenhof blooms form a sea of springtime flowers, The exuberant colours of spring, blend beautifully in a landscape of established trees, flowering shrubs, a huge variety of perennials, water gardens, fountains and a large lake. B

Day 4 To Calais and then home. B

Included Meals: B=Breakfast

Tour Includes
- Free local joining points
- Travel by Executive coach
- 3 nights' accommodation with continental breakfast
- 1 included excursion
- Keukenhof Park

Date - April 2011. From £199

For more information telephone Leger Holidays on 0844 686 2467

Costa Rican Adventure Holidays Offers

Costa Rica is a little bit of paradise in Central America. With stunning beaches, lush rainforests and majestic volcanoes this tiny country will leave you breathless. The Adventure Company can help you see the very best of what Costa Rica can offer...

Tropical Adventure - 9 days
Go deep into the rainforest and cloud forest, witness the power of the earth at Arenal Volcano and be dazzled by beautiful Pacific. Sweeping beaches on the Pacific coast, Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Skywalk through the forest, Rincon de la Vieja or Central Valley.

Book before 30 Oct get £50 off - From £1,579 per person, Flight inclusive

Costa Rican Adventure - 16 days
Discover amazing wildlife, rainforest, volcanoes and tropical beaches. Rainforest & volcanoes, National parks & rafting, Rich & prolific bird life.

Book before 30 Oct get £50 off - From £2,089 per person, Flight inclusive

Plus take a look at this brand new trip:

Plantation to Pacific - 11 days
Volcanoes, rainforest, superb beaches, waterfalls and fast flowing rivers – Costa Rica is a dream come true for nature lovers. Pacific coast, Manuel Antonio, Volcanoes & Jungle, Plantation stay.

From £2,329 per person, Flight inclusive

Find out more - Telephone the Adventure Company on 0845 609 0837

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Offer

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Adventure in France, Italy and Switzerland.  Save GBP 200 on October 17th departure.

An unforgettable holiday combining the romance of Venice with the elegance that is the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, the most famous train in the world, a travelling time capsule of European history.

17th October 2010 departure - Was GBP2,109. Now GBP1,909. Save GBP200

Included excursions
- Venice walking tour
- Venice & its islands

Also included
- The services of an experienced Specialist Guide
- Excellent centrally-located 4-star hotel
- Hotel porterage
- 3 nights bed and breakfast in hotels and 1 night full board on the Orient-Express

Highlights
- Experience the nostalgic romance of travel on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
- Explore the real Venice and soak up its unique atmosphere

Accommodation
- British Pullman carriages of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

You will be seated at a table for your journey where you will be attended to by a steward who will serve your meal, drinks and any other refreshments you may require.

Itinerary

Day 1 : UK/Venice
Enjoy your short flight to Venice before transferring to your 4-star hotel for your three-night stay amongst the canals and gondolas of the unique city of Venice.

Day 2 : Venice
Enjoy two days at leisure to explore this fascinating city and soak up its unique atmosphere. Take a guided walking tour of the real Venice, the face that many visitors don’t get to see – the backwaters and hidden squares where life carries on much as it has done for generations.

Day 3 : Venice
Join your Specialist Guide on a journey by private boat to explore the Venetian Lagoon, on which the city ‘floats’. Visit some of the beautiful and relatively unexplored islands, including San Giorgio and Murano - famous for its glassware. On Burano, stroll among the brightly coloured houses and savour local Italian delicacies in one of its fine restaurants.

Day 4 : Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
The next part of the adventure starts at Venice’s Santa Lucia railway station where you will board the Wagons-Lits carriages of the world-famous Venice Simplon-Orient-Express for your overnight journey to Paris. Your personal steward, who is there to take care of you throughout your journey, will usher you to your private compartment. Settle in and enjoy the ambience of your authentic carriage dating back to the 1920s and lovingly restored by expert craftsmen.

Travelling aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is all about immersing yourself in the glamour and excitement of the golden age of travel and dining is no exception – take your seat in one of the beautiful restaurant cars for your three-course lunch.

Savour the delicious food prepared and presented by a team of skilled French chefs, against the backdrop of some of Europe’s most spectacular scenery, as your journey takes you through the Italian Dolomites and into the Swiss Alps. Enjoy a sumptuous afternoon tea and then it’s time to get ready for dinner.

They say you can never be over-dressed aboard the Orient- Express and dressing in black tie certainly adds to the sense of occasion. Elegance is the order of the day and after an aperitif in the Bar Car it’s time for a leisurely four-course dinner, before retiring to you cabin made ready for sleep by your steward.

Day 5 : Venice Simplon-Orient Express/UK
As you awake in the heart of France your steward will serve you morning refreshments before arrival at Paris Gare de l’Est station. Here you can enjoy a brief opportunity to stretch your legs before being whisked off again from Paris to the French coast during which you will be served with brunch in one of the train’s fabulous restaurant cars. As you reach the French coast you will transfer to a coach for the brief trip by Eurotunnel to the UK.

Once in England you will board your new train - the handsome British Pullman, with carriages also dating back to the 1920s and 1930s, brought back into service after careful restoration. Travelling through the Kent countryside you will enjoy your final fine dining experience with a three-course lunch with a glass of champagne before arriving at journey’s end, London Victoria station.

Find Out More:
Visit the Page & Moy Website or Tel: 0845 358 2639

Italian Explorer Rail Holiday Late Availability

The Italian Explorer.  Ten days departing 20th October 2010 with Great Rail Journeys.  From GBP1,648 per person.

Enjoy the cultural highlights of Italy, including the Eternal City of Rome, the Renaissance splendour of Florence and the beguiling beauty of Venice, all in one amazing holiday flying from London Heathrow.

Tour highlights
- Rome including a city tour & Colosseum entrance
- A city tour of Florence
- Rail excursion to Lucca
- A guided tour of beautiful Lucca
- Typical Lucchese lunch
- Glamorous Venice including a guided tour
- Venice Travel Pass

Tour Itinerary

Day 1 - To Rome
We meet this morning in London to catch our flight to Rome, Italy's vibrant and cosmopolitan capital. On arrival we are transferred by coach to our base for the next three nights, the 4-star Hotel Mediterraneo, where we dine together this evening. (D)

Day 2 - Exploring Rome
We enjoy a half-day guided tour of the ancient city today. Highlights include the Colosseum, the huge arena commissioned in 72AD where the Romans flocked to see gladiatorial combats. We also visit the incredibly well-preserved Roman Forum, the administrative heart of ancient Rome, and the ostentatious Trevi Fountain. This afternoon you are free to discover Rome under your own steam - why not take a stroll to the Piazza di Spagna and window-shop in the glamorous boutiques for which the area is renowned? Alternatively, you can visit the Pantheon, a temple dedicated to the ancient pagan gods of Rome, or the Piazza Navona, arguably Rome's most beautiful Baroque square. (B,D)

Day 3 - A day at leisure in Rome
You have the time to continue exploring this fascinating city at your own pace today. Why not take the opportunity to join an optional excursion (payable locally) to St Peter's Basilica, set in the heart of the Vatican City and the biggest Christian place of worship on earth? The Vatican, the smallest state in the world, is home to eleven eclectic museums, which include precious works by artists such as Botticelli, Bernini, and Raphael, plus the stunning Sistine Chapel, which was painted by the brilliant Michangelo between 1508 and 1512. The Vatican has been a sovereign state since 1929, and was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites over 15 years ago. (B)

Day 4 - By train to Florence
After a relaxing morning, we depart by high-speed train to Renaissance Florence, regarded by many as Europe's artistic capital. We spend three nights at the 4-star Hotel Santa Maria Novella*, a short walk from the city's historic attractions. Dinner this evening is in a typical Tuscan restaurant. (B,D)

Day 5 - A guided tour of Florence
We enjoy a guided tour this morning, visiting the spectacular Duomo with its distinctive orange-tiled dome, rising up above the heart of the city, and the unique Ponte Vecchio, or Old Bridge, constructed in 1345 and spanning the rippling waters of the Arno. Our tour ends at the imposing Piazza Basilica di Santa Croce, which houses the tombs of Dante, Michelangelo, Machiavelli and Gallileo. The remainder of the day is free for you to discover Florence at your own pace. As well as the world-famous Uffizi Gallery, Florence also houses the Palazzo Pitti, the dwelling of many of the famous Medici family over the years and nowadays home to masterpieces from their extensive art collection. (B)

Day 6 - Excursion to Lucca
Our rail excursion today (Standard Class) takes us to the beautiful walled city of Lucca, one of the most perfectly preserved medieval towns in Europe. We enjoy a guided tour here followed by some free time when you can stroll through the narrow winding streets of the Old Town. A walk around the ramparts, the impressive city walls which still encircle the city, offer some lovely views of the broad tree-lined promenades. We meet for lunch in a Lucchese restaurant before heading back to Florence this afternoon. (B,L)

Day 7 - By train to Venice
Sit back and enjoy our high-speed rail journey to Venice. On arrival, we check in to our hotel for three nights, the splendid 4-star Hotel Carlton on the Grand Canal, in the heart of Venice. There is time for you to start exploring this incredible floating city before we enjoy dinner together this evening. (B,D)

Day 8 - Sightseeing in Venice
We begin our guided tour today in St Mark's Square, dominated by the magnificent Basilica di San Marco and the venerable Palazzo Ducale, or Doge's Palace. This afternoon, why not soak up the atmosphere with a romantic gondola ride? For those who prefer a bird's eye view, take the opportunity to climb the Campanile de San Marco, which offers incredible vistas over the buildings clustered around the centre, and shimmering lagoons further out. We have included a Venice Travel Pass, which gives you free travel on all vaporetto services in the city. (B)

Day 9 - A day at leisure in Venice
Today is at leisure to explore this beautiful city. Venice lends itself to idle wandering, and possibly the best way to enjoy its captivating charms is to let yourself get lost in the myriad of winding alleys and twisting lanes that make up the city centre. Alternatively, why not sail to the island of Murano, famous for its gorgeous glassware, or Burano, well-known for its lace-making industry? This evening we conclude with a final dinner together. (B,D)

Day 10 - Farewell to Italy
We set out for the airport after breakfast this morning, and return by air from Venice to London Heathrow, arriving late afternoon. (B)

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.  These meals, where shown, are included in the price of your holiday.

What's Included
- Return scheduled flights from London to Rome and Venice to London
- First & Standard class rail travel as described
- 9 nights' hotel accommodation with breakfast each day
- 1 lunch, 5 dinners
- Venice Travel Pass
- 1 full day excursions & 3 half day excursions
- All transfers
- Services of your Tour Manager throughout
- Single room prices include the supplement for single occupancy throughout: £495

Not Included
- Cancellation, medical & travel insurance from £43

Find out more - Visit the Great Rail Journeys Website

Club Med Ski Holidays Early Booking Deals

Club Med provide all-inclusive luxury ski holidays in some of the finest ski resorts in Europe. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned skier, with Club Med you can ski or snowboard all day, whatever your level.  Alone or with professionals, the joys of the slopes await you for an ideal winter sports holiday.

Beat the rush on popular school holiday dates for premium all-inclusive Winter ski, snowboard and wintersports holidays. With next February's half-term and Easter breaks, the UK will share its school holidays with much of Europe, which means you need to move fast secure to secure the best deals.

Early Booking Offers
Book NOW with Club Med and save up to £1,280 for a family of four, or £640 per couple.  Selected departure dates from October 2010 to April 2011:

4/5 TRIDENT RESORTS
Adult - Save £120.
Child - Save £60
Resorts - Saint-Moritz Roi Soleil, Méribel Antarès, Val d'Isère, La Plagne 2100, Tignes Val Claret, Villars-sur-Ollon, Chamonix Mont - Blanc, Cervinia and Méribel Aspen Park.

3 TRIDENT RESORTS
Adult - Save £75.
Child - Save £37
Resorts - Avoriaz, Les Ménuires, Wengen, Les Deux Alpes, Arcs Extrême, L' Alpe d'Huez La Sarenne, Aime la Plagne, Serre-Chevalier, Sahoro, Sestrière and Val Thorens.

BOOKING BONUS UPGRADE SUITE
Book a Suite and get an additional £200 off Adults and £100 off children
Resorts - Saint-Moritz Roi Soleil, Méribel Antarès, Val d'Isère, La Plagne 2100, Tignes Val Claret, Villars-sur-Ollon, Chamonix Mont - Blanc, Cervinia and Méribel Aspen Park.

BOOKING BONUS UPGRADE DELUXE ROOM
Book a Deluxe Room and get an additional £100 off Adults and £50 off children.
Resorts - Saint-Moritz Roi Soleil, Avoriaz, Méribel Antarès, Val d'Isère, Les Ménuires, La Plagne 2100, Tignes Val Claret, Wengen, Les Deux Alpes, Villars-sur-Ollon, Arcs Extrême, L' Alpe d'Huez La Sarenne, Aime la Plagne, Serre-Chevalier, Chamonix Mont - Blanc, Sahoro, Cervinia, Méribel Aspen Park, Sestrière and Val Thorens.

Visit the Club Med Website now

Belgian Grand Prix Late Deals

Spa-Francorchamps, home of the Belgian Formula One Grand Prix, is a challenging and fast circuit for drivers. Add the excellent viewing and it is clear to see why the Belgian Grand Prix is one of the most exciting on the calendar.

Brussels has been a popular city for Grand Prix visitors over the many years we have been coming to Spa, where you will find excellent shops and a good choice of bars and restaurants.

Belgian Grand Prix - 4 nights by air
Dates Available 26-08-2010
5 days from £549

Belgian Grand Prix - 4 nights by Eurostar
Dates Available 26-08-2010
5 days from £459

Belgian Grand Prix - 3 nights by coach
Dates Available 26-08-2010
4 days from £299

Belgian Grand Prix - 3 nights by air
Dates Available 27-08-2010
4 days from £469

Visit the Page & Moy Website or Tel: 0845 358 2639

Christmas Market Holidays From Travelsphere

If you are looking to kick-start your Christmas shopping, a visit to a European Christmas markets is always a winner - and you can reward yourself on a job well done with a warming mug of spicy glhwein.

And if you are dreaming of a white Christmas, a festive break is the perfect way to make those dreams come true. Imagine the joy of waking up on Christmas morning and opening the curtains to a carpet of crisp, white snow in a beautiful alpine town?

Many of our tours are in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, where the fairytale medieval towns make the perfect backdrop. If you'd prefer to avoid the winter chill, we have options that will take you away for some winter sun, including the Holyland - where the Christmas story began - and the Far East.

Best of all, we'll take care of all the cooking and washing up! We have plenty of exciting options for New Year holidays too, so why not join us for a Hogmanay to remember?

Aachen & Valkenburg Christmas Market
Dec 2010 departure
4 days from £249

Luxembourg Christmas Market
Nov 2010 - Dec 2010 departures
4 days from £219

Cologne Christmas Markets
Nov 2010 - Dec 2010 departures
4 days from £179

Cologne Christmas Markets: Central Cologne Hotel Option
Nov 2010 - Dec 2010 departures
4 days from £229

Lille & Bruges Christmas Market
Nov 2010 - Dec 2010 departures
4 days from £179

York Christmas Market
Nov 2010 departure
4 days from £229

Visit the Travelsphere Website or tel 0845 358 2368

Trekking Holidays in Nepal

The latest company to advertise on inspiringholidays.com is Botanical Treks and Excursions, a registered trekking company based in Kathmandu Nepal. They specialise in nature and scientific travel as well as adventure trekking throughout Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan.

The company leads trekking holidays which explore the unique natural environment in the high Himalayan valleys, national parks and wildlife reserves. These treks are carried out in association with amateur and professional botanists with specialist knowledge on high altitude plants.

As well as specialist botanical treks the company also leads treks and mountain expeditions for adventure seekers in Nepal, Tibet & Bhutan. They have a wide range of excellent trekking options for visitors ranging from easy walking excursions to strenuous climbs of the majestic snowy peaks. On a Botanical Treks Holiday you will be immersed in the culture and natural world of the Himalayan region.

Botanical Treks & Excursions is an active member of the Trekking Agents Association of Nepal (TAAN), Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA), and Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA) and recognized by Nepal Government, Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation. All treks are lead by professional trekking guides, climbing guides and sherpas with the relevant qualifications & proper training from government recognized institutions.

Here are just a selection of the wonderful trekking holidays offered by Botanical Treks:

• Everest Base Camp Trek
• Anapurna Base Camp Trek
• Mera Peak Climbing
• Ghorepani Pun Hill Trek (Annapurna)
• Langtang Valley Botanical Trek
• Mount Manaslu Trek via Larke La Pass

Great British Folk Festival Weekend

This December sees Skegness hosting the first ever Great British Folk Festival weekend. Enjoy a three night break where you can see big-name acts performing live and plus plenty of activities to keep you entertained during the day. This is a great opportunity to see live acoustic acts in a festival atmosphere without the mud!

Some of the finest folk talent in the world will be at the Great British Folk Festival weekend. We’ve got a fantastic line-up of folk stars of past and present, including Sandi Thom, Kate Rusby, Richard Digance, The Dylan Project and Legends of Folk Rock: current and former members of Fairport Convention, Steeleye Span, Jethro Tull, Lindisfarne and Magna Carta & The Albion Band.

There’s more acts yet to be announced and as with all Big Weekends, you'll be given plenty of activities to keep you entertained throughout the day.

The Butlins Skegness Folk Festival is set to be the best winter Folk Weekend of 2010. The line up of Folk artists and dance acts is just superb and the list is ever growing.

Confirmed

Sandi Thom - Singer Sandi Thom made it big in 2006 with a series of live internet broadcasts and had a UK Number 1 with I wish I was a Punk Rocker (With Flowers in my Hair).

Kate Rusby - Famed for her duet with Ronan Keating, Mercury Prize-nominated singer/songwriter Kate Rusby is bringing her stunning voice and songwriting talents to Butlins.

Jiggery Pipery - Jiggerypipery are now a well established act, forming in 1999, they quickly defined their own unique style and sound. With two albums, ‘Jiggerypipery’ & ‘The Drift’ under their belts, they continue to forge ahead with both albums having had extensive radio play on national and local radio.

Acoustic Strawbs - Acoustic Strawbs are David Cousins, Dave Lambert, and Chas Cronk , the front-line of the classic 1970s line-up of Britain ’s most successful international folk-rock band, and who tour regularly as Acoustic Strawbs.

The Gathering of: - Folk super group Gathering: The Legends of Folk Rock includes former members of Jethro Tull, Lindisfarne and Fairport Convention.

Away with the Faeries - Since forming "Away With The Faeries" in 2009 the band have worked to develop their own unique acoustic sound, blending traditional folk music with their own material.

Oyster Band - With 30 years of folk music and the BBC Folk Award for Best Group under their belt, the Oyster Band is one of the most experienced acts on the folk scene.

Also Appearing
 - The Gary Fletcher Band
 - Hunter Muskett
 - John Renbourn & Jacqui McShee
 - Phil Cool
 - The Dylan Project

STOP PRESS - Just Announced - Donovan will also be appearing

Fri 3 – Mon 6 Dec, Butlins Skegness Resort
3 nights from only £69 per person

Find out more...

The Trail of The Marrakech Express

Special offer on the The Trail of The Marrakech Express rail holiday.  Marrakech is known as the  Pearl of the South. It enjoys a spectacular setting between the desert and towering peaks of the High Atlas Mountains.

Board your train for a scenic journey via Meknes, past rolling hills and vineyards to Fez, one of the best-preserved medieval Islamic cities and the oldest cultural and spiritual city in Morocco.

Enjoy a spectacular train ride to Rabat, Morocco’s ancient royal capital. On our included sightseeing tour you will visit the Mohammed V Mausoleum, the unfinished Hassan Tower, the Medina and the Oudaias Kasbah.

There is also an opportunity to visit the peaceful Ourika Valley and sample tribal village life, where many still live in mudbrick houses.

Departures from Heathrow/ Regional connecting flights available.

WHAT’S INCLUDED
- The services of an experienced Tour Manager
- 7 nights half board
- 4 or 5 star hotels

INCLUDED EXCURSIONS
- Casablanca
-  Fez
- Volubilis, Moulay Idriss & Meknes
- Rabat
- Marrakech

OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS
- Ourika Valley
- Essaouira

Your Itinerary

DAY 1 UK/CASABLANCA - Fly to Casablanca and transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay.

DAY 2 CASABLANCA - Enjoy a morning sightseeing tour of Casablanca. Later we board the train for a scenic journey to Fez. We travel via the old capital city of Rabat, then turn inland through orange groves before the train climbs, twisting and turning all the way to the Imperial city of Meknes. Our train then descends via horseshoe curves through the northern edge of Morocco’s main wine-producing area to Fez.

DAY 3 FEZ - We’ll explore Fez today, one of the world’s best-preserved mediaeval Islamic cities and the oldest cultural and spiritual city in Morocco. Hidden among a sea of flat roofs and tall minarets, you will find a maze of streets, alleys, passages and stairways that take you to a glittering array of stalls, selling everything from silver jewellery to the local mint tea. Our included sightseeing tour takes you to the souks, the 9th-century Karaouline University, the Nejjarine Fountain, the Tanneries and the Royal Palace. Join our optional folklore show this evening featuring a magician, belly dancing and live Berber music.

DAY 4 VOLUBILIS, MOULAY IDRISS & MEKNES - Leaving Fez behind, we head to the spectacular ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, with its forum and houses containing well preserved mosaics, then continue on to the hilltop setting of Moulay Idriss, a holy sacred town with whitewashed walls and green roofs. We have some free time here before continuing to nearby Meknes, one man’s unfinished vision, founded at the end of the 17th century. For 55 years, Moulay Ismail filled this great imperial city with palaces, mosques, gardens and much more. On our panoramic tour we see the monumental Khmiss Gate, the city walls and the Jewish Quarter, before boarding the train to Rabat for an overnight stay.

DAY 5 RABAT - The capital of Morocco, Rabat is where the King resides. The rich history all around is easy to see as you visit the sights or do some shopping at the street stalls. On our included sightseeing tour you will visit the Mohammed V Mausoleum, the unfinished Hassan Tower, the Medina and the Oudaias Kasbah, before we board the afternoon train to Marrakech.

DAY 6 MARRAKECH - Marrakech is known as the ‘Pearl of the South’. It enjoys a spectacular setting between the desert and towering peaks of the High Atlas Mountains. We include a city tour of colourful Marrakech. At its heart is the bustling square, Djemma El Fna. We also visit the Bahia Palace and prison ruins, before walking through the vibrant Jewish Quarter and spice markets to the Badia Palace.

DAY 7 OURIKA - Not too far from Marrakech is the peaceful valley of Ourika, the destination for one of today’s optional excursions.

DAY 8 MARRAKECH/UK - Transfer to the airport for the return flight to the UK.

Special Offer - Save £150

23/10/2010 - 8 DAYS
Was £1,199. Now £1,049. SAVE £150

06/11/2010 - 8 DAYS
Was £1,149. Now £999. SAVE £150

Find out more...
Visit the Page & Moy Website or tel: 0845 358 2639

South African Safari with Cape Town

South African Safari with Cape Town Add on Special Offer.

See incredible wildlife in its natural habitat. Experience the thrill of a safari in Kruger National Park, stroll through a Victorian Gold Rush village and a Zulu homestead, follow the Garden Route, take in the view from Table Mountain, experience the diverse and fascinating scenery of South Africa with Page & Moy.

This fantastic value for money holiday takes you to some of the best best game reserves in South Africa for a real holiday of a lifetime.  And to top it all you you can then choose to spend some time in Cape Town!

Holiday Highlights
- Get close to nature on spectacular game drives
- City tour of Cape Town

Holiday Includes
- Services of a local guide
- Return scheduled flights to Johannesburg returning from Cape Town
- Transfers between airport and lodge
- Morning game drive in Kruger National Park
- Two game drives in the Thanda Nani Game Reserve
- All hotel baggage handling for one piece of luggage per person
- All State and local taxes
- All UK and overseas airport taxes and security charges

Included Excursions
- Game drive in Kruger National Park
- Two game drives in Thanda Nani Game Reserve
- City tour of Cape Town

Optional Excursions
- Game drive in Kruger National Park
- Game drive in Thanda Nani
- Range of excursions in Cape Town

Your Itinerary

DAY 1: UK to Johannesburg - Depart on your scheduled flight to Johannesburg.

DAY 2: Thanda Nani Lodge - On arrival in Johannesburg, transfer to the Thanda Nani Lodge, where you will stay for the next four nights. Settle into your room this afternoon before enjoying a traditional ‘Spitbraai’ – BBQ – dinner at the lodge.

DAY 3: Kruger National Park - This morning we include a game drive in the Kruger National Park. This is one of the most famous game reserves in the world and arguably the best in South Africa. It is home to the Big Five – elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion and leopard, and your guide will point these, and many other animals, out along the way. Enjoy time to relax while dinner is prepared over an open fire.

DAY 4: Thanda Nani Game Reserve - This morning we include a game drive in the Thanda Nani Game Reserve, which is home to black and white rhino, antelope, impala, giraffe, ostrich, hippo, crocodiles and much more. The reserve also has a breeding programme for endangered species. This afternoon, you are free to relax in the lodge, or join an optional game drive in the reserve. Dinner is included at the lodge tonight.

DAY 5: Thanda Nani Game Reserve - Join an optional game drive this morning into Kruger National Park, then we include an afternoon game drive in the Thanda Nani Game Reserve. Dinner this evening will be a traditional ‘Braai’, or BBQ, at the lodge.

DAY 6: Johannesburg - Transfer by coach to Johannesburg airport for your flight to Cape Town. On arrival transfer to your hotel for a four night stay.

DAYS 7 TO 9: Cape Town - Cape Town enjoys an incomparable setting, set in the shadow of spectacular Table Mountain and within easy reach of vine-covered valleys, plunging cliffs, spectacular mountains and golden sandy beaches. We have included a half day city tour of Cap Town, you are then free to relax or join our selection of optional excursions.

DAY 10: Cape Town to UK - After a leisurely breakfast, transfer to the airport for your return flight back to the UK.

DAY 11: UK - Arrival in the UK.

Special Offer
Save £150 on the following departures: 13/09/2010, 27/09/2010, 26/10/2010, 02/11/2010
11 Days - Was £1,499. Now £1,349. Save £150

Find out more...
Visit the Page & Moy Website or tel: 0845 358 2639

Culinary Tour of Vietnam and Cambodia

Save GBP150 on a magical culinary tour of Vietnam and Cambodia this November. The food of south-east Asia is a taste sensation, from the fiery curries and satisfying noodle dishes to the fragrant salads and fabulous fresh fruit. Explore this wonderful country in the best possible way through its food.

Highlights include a magical journey with two superb cookery classes included plus dine at excellent local restaurants to sample traditional cuisine.

Included excursions
- Angkor Wat
- Ta Prohm
- Cookery class in Siem Reap
- Phnom Penh
- Ho Chi Minh City
- Mekong Delta
- Hoi An walking tour
- Hanoi
- Angkor Thom
- Sunset at Angkor Wat
- Hanoi orientation tour
- Water puppets
- Halong Bay
- Tra Que & Red Bridge cookery class

Optional excursions
- Early morning in Hoi An
- Early morning in Hanoi

Meal arrangements
- 10 nights including 9 breakfasts, plus 9 lunches and 6 evening meals

Also included
- The services of an experienced Page & Moy Tour manager and an english-speaking local guide
- Hotel porterage

Special Offer
Save £150pp on 11th November 2010 departure.
12 days - Was £2,309. Now £2,159. Save £150

Find out more - Visit the Page & Moy website or tel: 0845 358 2639

Edinburgh Tattoo Rail Holiday

Scotland rail holiday featuring the Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

Enjoy the spectacle of marching bands at the Edinburgh Tattoo, with pipes and drums resonating from this marvellous setting. Combine this with the stunning lochs, glens and mountains of western Scotland . Join us to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee Year of the Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

Tour highlights
- Glasgow
- Journey on the West Highland Railway
- Visit to a whisky distillery
- Journey on the Bo'ness and Kinneil Railway
- Edinburgh's Military Tattoo in its Diamond Jubilee Year

Tour Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrival in Glasgow
Your tour begins in Glasgow, where your Tour Manager will be waiting for you in the Radisson Blu Hotel or the Park Inn (26 August departure). Take some time to settle in before we meet for dinner in the hotel's restaurant. (D)

Day 2 - Exploring the West Highlands
We set off today on the enchanting West Highland Railway, renowned for its incredible views across the Scottish countryside. Relax in your seat as the train carries us along the banks of rippling lochs and through verdant forests, past cascading waterfalls streaming down craggy rock-faces. Rugged peaks and untamed moorland stretch as far as the eye can see, and we reach Fort William under the looming bulk of Ben Nevis. After time for lunch, we make a visit to a whisky distillery, with a chance to sample a wee dram. Our return journey to Glasgow takes us through the spectacular scenery of the Glencoe region and past Loch Lomond. (B,D)

Day 3 - Edinburgh and the Edinburgh Tattoo
After a morning at leisure, we set out by coach for the Bo'ness and Kinneil Railway and our trip on one of the lovingly-restored locomotives. The line takes us along the shore of the Forth and climbs into the hills, before pulling into Birkhill, a picturesque town set on a wooded incline. We continue to Scotland's cosmopolitan capital, where we have plenty of time to enjoy dinner before settling into our seats for the highlight of our trip, the Edinburgh Military Tattoo. This musical spectacular, featuring the massed pipes and drums of the Scottish regiments, is set against the magnificent backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, perched high above the ancient city and dominating the skyline. (B)

Day 4 - A day at leisure in Glasgow
Today is free to explore the city of Glasgow. Admire the architecture of Charles Rennie Mackintosh, one of Glasgow's most famous sons, or discover one of the numerous art galleries and museums in the city. (B)

Day 5 - Homeward bound
After breakfast this morning you are free to say your goodbyes and leave Glasgow at your leisure. Alternatively, why not explore this delightful city further before departing later today? (B)

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.  These meals, where shown, are included in the price of your holiday

Diamond Jubilee Event
2010 marks the Diamond Jubilee Year of the Edinburgh's celebrated Military Tattoo, so promises to be an extra special event. Set against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle the Tattoo will host military bands from across the globe, including South Africa, Australia and New Zealand.

The tattoo reflects military tradition dating back centuries when regiments stationed in the Low Countries were signaled back to barracks in the evening by the pipes and drums being marched through the town.

Did you know that the word 'tattoo' comes from the closing-time cry in the inns in the Low Countries during the 17th and 18th centuries? 'Doe den tap toe' means 'turn off the taps'.

Find out more - Visit the Great Rail Jouneys Website

Picos de Europa Walking Holiday in Spain

Explore the trails in these northern Spanish mountains. The Picos de Europa are a compact and dramatic range of limestone mountains in northern Spain. The rugged and unspoilt landscape is home to vultures and chamois, and is dotted with remote villages.

This trekking itinerary follows a circular route and passes through some of the most well-known areas, including the Cares Gorge, a dramatic chasm up to 1000m deep. Elsewhere, you will visit the natural amphitheatre at Fuente Dé and the remote valley of Valdeon before heading out of the mountains and reaching San Vicente, a delightful old fishing village on the coast.

• Walk in the dramatic Picos
• Picturesque villages
• Spectacular scenery

Itinerary

Day 1: Fly to Bilbao - After your flight to Bilbao you transfer to your accommodation in Arenas de Cabrales. From here you have views up to the highest peak in the national park. Distinctive hotel - 7 nights.

Day 2: Walk up Juan Robre - Today starts with a walk straight from the door of your hotel. Once you are out of the village, a Roman path takes you up to the high pastures of Nava, which become a sea of flowers in May and June. As you continue up, the scenery may start to look more familiar as features similar to the Yorkshire Dales appear, with limestone outcrops jutting out everywhere. If you look up in the air, you may be lucky enough to see a variety of eagles and vultures soaring above you and floating on the thermals. The path then leads you up to the summit of Juan Robre, from where you will have commanding views of Arenas far below and the jagged peaks of the Central Massif in the distance. You descend via the Juan Robre ridge, which brings you back to Arenas where you can enjoy a well deserved cold drink to cool you down. (BLD)

Day 3: Cares Gorge - Described as the "jewel in the crown of walking in Spain", today you visit Cares Gorge. For 12km , the engineered path has been blasted into the rock face. Originally built in the 1940s as part of a hydroelectric scheme, it has now become one of the most popular Spanish walks. The surrounding peaks reach over 2000m in places, making for a stunning backdrop. If you are lucky, you may also catch a glimpse of the rare and beautiful wall creeper; a pretty bird which is mostly grey with rounded black wings that have central red patches. You eventually emerge in the village of Cain, where you stop for lunch before returning back along the same routeto Puente Poncebos, where transport will be waiting to take you back to Arenas. (BLD)

Day 4: Pandebano Col - Today you walk up to the Pandebano Col with amazing views of the monolithic peak of Naranjo de Bulnes. From here you continue on up to what is one of the classic viewpoints of the Picos at the summit of Peña Main. You then descend through forest and pastures until you reach the village of Tielve, where you meet your transport and head back to Arenas. (BLD)

Day 5: Free Day - Today is a free day so you can choose what you want to do, whether you want to visit the coast or try a spot of caving, canoeing or canyoning. Alternatively, if you are really keen, you can go for another walk!

Fuente Dé is one of the important tourist attractions in Cantabria due to the existence of its cable-car, which dates back to the beginning of the 20th Century. The top station (1834m) offers a fantastic viewpoint over the Picos and the surrounding mountains of the Cordillera Cantábrica. Fuente Dé itself is an impressive rock amphitheatre, actually a glacial corrie, of enormous dimensions. It is possible to walk up to the top cable car station, although the route gets rather steep at the end.

From the top, it is possible to walk down through the pastures of Áliva towards Espinama and Fuente Dé, perhaps stopping en route at a hotel to enjoy a drink and take in stunning views of the impressive rock face of Peña Vieja, the highest mountain in Cantabria at 2613 m. It is also possible to enjoy a refreshing dip in the Lagos de Lloroza. (B)

Day 6: Western Massif - A short drive takes you to the rarely visited foothills of the Western Massif for a varied circular walk, which includes an ascent of Peña Pandescura (1000m) before dropping down through an ancient forest to the Casaño Gorge, where in the summer months it's possible to bath in the rockpools along the course of the river. (BLD)

Day 7: Twin Summits of Mancondiu - To round off your holiday, your last full day will be spent enjoying the remaining stunning peaks. At 2000m, the twin summits of Mancondiu are the highest point that you reach during the week. The majority of the walking today will be done on disused mining tracks, apart from the last 200m. When you reach the top you will be rewarded with fantastic views of the Central and Eastern Massifs and for the brave, an easy but exposed traverse between the two summits marks a highlight to a varied week in an area that has been described as, "The most scenic exposure of compact limestone in Western Europe". (BLD)

Day 8: Fly Home - Today, it is time to say goodbye to Spain and your new found friends. You will drive to Bilbao where the trip ends for Land Only clients. Clients on group flights will fly home.

8 days from £669

Visit the Adventure Company Website or Tel 0845 609 0837

Cinque Terre Walking Holiday in Italy

Cinque Terre Walking Holiday in Italy with GAP Adventures.

Head out into the Cinque Terre National Park and walk the original coastal trail from Riomaggiore to Monterosso, passing through all five of the beautiful Cinque Terre villages. Enjoy spectacular views, with plenty of time for stops to sample some locally-produced wine (or Cinque Terre limoncello!) and freshly caught seafood for lunch.

Venture onto one of the inland and rather higher trails, which winds for much of the route through cool and shady woodland.

Enjoy the freedom to explore the Cinque Terre region. Choose from many optional activities to suit all interests - hiking, biking, boat trips, diving, relaxing on the beach or perhaps a cookery class in typical Ligurian cuisine.

Take the opportunity to jump on a train to visit some of central Italy's highlights. The iconic Tower of Pisa, the art galleries and culture of Florence, Genoa, Portofino and some fabulous beaches for the sun-seekers are all within easy reach!

From £399

Visit the GAP Adventures Website