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Having A Whale Of A Time In Mexico
As winter draws ever closer in Europe, Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit is getting ready for its whale migrating season. November is the time these ocean giants travel back from North America to the warm Pacific Ocean waters of the Riviera Nayarit and its surrounding area, for the winter months to feed, mate…
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Expedition Adventure Abroad VIVA ‘First’
River cruise specialist, VIVA Cruises, is launching four new itineraries on the North and Baltic Seas on board the company’s first ever expedition ship, MS Seaventure. The new cruises will start in April 2021 and have a capacity for just 164 guests. The vessel, formerly MS BREMEN, was acquired by VIVA…
9:00 AM 27th November 2020
Black Friday Travel Deals - 27th November 2020
A range of travel deals are available to coincide with Black Friday on November 27th. Here’s a round up: Alton Towers Resort is offering up to 40% discounts on 2021 Short Breaks from 9am.They will apply on selected short breaks between 19th March 2021 and 7th November 2021, meaning families can…
9:00 AM 26th November 2020
An Under The Stars Experience Like No Other
A safari lodge set to reinvent what it means to experience the African bush will open in the heart of Botswana’s Okavango Delta, Xigera (“Kee-jera”) this January. The Tollman family have handcrafted the extraordinary baobab treehouse. This unique sleepout has been inspired by the ancient baobab tree, a symbol of Africa,…
9:00 AM 25th November 2020
New Routes To The Canary Islands From Manchester
Low-cost airline Iberia Express has strengthened its Manchester Airport winter program with the addition of direct ‘Christmas’ routes to the Canary Islands. Specific destinations include Lanzarote and Gran Canaria, as well as the Spanish capital, Madrid. This is the first time the airline has operated direct flights connecting the British market with…
9:00 AM 24th November 2020
Five-Star Vegan Nosh At Great Plains Safari Camps
Great Plains, the iconic eco-tourism organisation in Africa, is pitching to a new market by introducing five-star vegan cuisine into its luxury offering. High-end locally sourced plant-based meals will now be available at all of its safari camps in Kenya, Botswana and Zimbabwe. Located in some of the most remote areas…
9:00 AM 23rd November 2020
New Hotel Spring 2021 - Pan Pacific London
As thoughts turn to travel in 2021 and the demand for staycations is set to rise, hardened travellers who haven’t reclined, wined or dined much this year can look forward to experiencing a new kid on the block with the opening of Pan Pacific London in spring 2021. Situated…
9:00 AM 22nd November 2020
Rottweilers & Romance In Cumbria & Yorkshire!
Grantley Hall in North Yorkshire has been named as the place ‘Best for Romance’ by one of the world’s leading hospitality brands. But if it’s your dog you’re in love with, then jump in your car and head for Rothay Manor Hotel & Fine Dining in Cumbria, officially the Best Dog…
9:00 AM 21st November 2020
Review: Historic Walking Guides: York By Claire Shaw
Well, yet another departure for me, this time, to review a tour guide, but this is certainly an interesting one, appealing as it does to my love of history. How little we appreciate the world around us. Walking far more, as I have done during lockdown, I have discovered among other…
9:41 AM 20th November 2020
Train Deal Opens ‘Discounted’ Europe to Travellers
Phil Hopkins
Arts & Travel Editor
Europe’s fastest-growing hybrid hotel-hostel brand is partnering with the company behind Eurail and Interrail train passes, to offer travellers affordable and flexible adventures. Starting next year Generator has partnered with Eurail to deliver a deal that will see a Eurail or Interrail train pass linked to a series 20% discounted…
8:00 AM 20th November 2020
An Office In Paradise?
Phil Hopkins
Arts & Travel Editor
Saint Lucia’s Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort reopens today with the launch of a new workation package designed to encourage people to lockdown in Paradise! Pre lockdown, Saint Lucia – an island in the Caribbean- was one of the few destinations UK travellers could visit without being subject to any quarantine…
9:00 AM 19th November 2020
Late Deals – Dubai & UAE
Flight Only Dubai from £326: Price includes return flights from Manchester Airport with British Airways. Book by 23 Nov for travel until 30 Sept 21’. Visit www.southalltravel.co.uk or call on 0208 705 0086 UAE - Dubai from £599: Discover Dubai on this seven-night holiday staying at the 4* Hilton Dubai…
12:00 PM 18th November 2020
Santa Steamer Set To Raise Festive Spirits
The North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR) is gearing up for a fun-filled winter season this December with Santa Specials - festive fayre served aboard a Pullman service, and the launch of its online Christmas shop; all great reasons to be merry…..even if you are in lockdown right now! Families looking to…
9:00 AM 18th November 2020
The Non-Skiers Guide To Winter
The winter months are an exciting time for many with the coming days seeing in the next winter ski season. However, these wonderland winter months are not only for those who enjoy skiing . There are numerous ways to enjoy a winter snow holiday. Relish some incredible frozen adventures without…
9:00 AM 17th November 2020
Northern Ireland Spa Unveils £750k Re-fit
One of Northern Ireland’s leading 5-star properties, the Culloden Estate & Spa, has completed the £750,000 renovation of its spa and wellness facilities. The extensive project, begun in January by Hastings Hotels, has seen part of The Spa at the Culloden redesigned with the introduction of both a new linear…
8:00 AM 16th November 2020
Dubai Joins UK Air Corridor
Dubai has been added to the UK Government’s travel exemption quarantine list from December 3rd. That means Brits can now travel to one of the United Arab Emirates’ most popular holiday and business destinations without the threat of having to quarantine for 14-days upon return to the UK. Issam Kazim, CEO…
9:00 AM 14th November 2020
Saga Holidays - Special Interest Trips For 2021
Saga has launched a new range of special interest tours for guests looking to spend their holiday pursuing their passions - or even discovering a new one. Each holiday will enable guests to explore special interests including walking, birdwatching, wildlife appreciation and archaeology, alongside like-minded travellers. Guests will be joined…
9:00 AM 13th November 2020
Staycation Like A Royal From The Crown
Ahead of the fourth season of The Crown airing on Netflix on 15th November, Oliver’s Travels has shared some of its grandest British castles and properties that would be sure to live up to Queen Elizabeth II’s standards. From a beautiful Gothic castle where Prince Charles and Camilla once stayed to…
8:00 AM 12th November 2020
Manchester Airport Slims Down Operations
Manchester Airport is moving all its operations to Terminal One from today in response to the drop in passenger numbers. All flights to operate from Terminal One In response to the ban on international travel which now forms part of the Government’s current lockdown measures, Manchester Airport is preparing for a significant…
8:00 AM 11th November 2020
Land Of The Incas Celebrates 2021
Phil Hopkins
Arts & Travel Editor
Looking for some travel ‘ambition’ next year, following twelve months of lockdown? How about PERU? Personally, I have the fondest memories of this amazing country when I walked the Machu Picchu Trail, and witnessed the amazing Inca ruins at sunrise. However, if a strenuous walk through the mountains is something you’d…
8:00 AM 11th November 2020
Airline Picks Up Awards
Jet2holidays has capped off a week of praise for how it has handled the Covid-19 pandemic by winning the Scottish Passenger Agents’ Association’s (SPAA) ‘Best Large Tour Operator’ award. It was given at a virtual event to recognise individuals and companies who have responded positively to the pandemic. Jet2holidays was recognised…
8:00 AM 10th November 2020
El Fenn Expands & Embraces New Way To Travel
Landmark Marrakech hotel El Fenn will unveil a sumptuous expansion this coming January, as it pledges greater commitment to supporting Morocco’s local economy, community and environment. El Fenn now stretches across twelve interconnected riads, traditionally the stately city homes of wealthy citizens such as merchants and courtiers. Amongst the new highlights…
9:00 AM 9th November 2020
Costa Rica Surfing The Waves
Costa Rica’s Playa Hermosa has been awarded the title of ‘World Surfing Reserve’ for 2021, becoming the first beach in Central America to hold this title. Costa Rica joins the likes of the Gold Coast in Australia and Malibu in California, positioning itself as a world leader in surfing. World…
8:00 AM 8th November 2020
New ‘Latin’ & Euro Hotel Openings For 2021
MEXICO Situated in Mexico’s youngest destination, super trendy Punta de Mita in Riviera Nayarit will welcome new luxury, sought-after and exclusive hotel properties in the region. These highly anticipated hotels have maintained momentum and continued construction despite the current climate, and will be ready to open their doors to indulgent travellers and…
8:00 AM 6th November 2020
A Slice Of Dante’s Inferno In Florence
Foreign travel may be continuing at the moment, however, www.holidaypirates.com maintain that the bulk of people are planning for Spring 2021 so here’s a couple for your consideration: Florence and Palma, both with good reason: ITALY Commemorates the 700th anniversary of poet Dante’s death Italy will mark the 700th…
8:00 AM 5th November 2020
Walking Your Way To a Sin-Free 2021!
Phil Hopkins
Arts & Travel Editor
Pura Aventura Three Caminos
The Camino de Santiago – probably the most famous Pilgrim trail in the world – has a big year ahead of it and, to celebrate, Pura Aventura is introducing a new Three Caminos Inn to Inn self-guided walking trip. On July 25th next year the Day of Santiago falls on Sunday…
8:00 AM 4th November 2020
Scenic Unveils 2021 Canada, Alaska & US Touring Programme
Luxury escorted tour specialist, Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours (www.scenic.co.uk) is celebrating 20 years of innovation in luxury touring in the pristine wilderness of Canada and Alaska with the release of its 2021 Canada, Alaska, and United States of America programme. The itineraries feature an array of…
8:00 AM 2nd November 2020
TUI Launches Winter & Summer Programmes
TUI UK has launched winter 2021 and 2022 holidays from Manchester Airport and is set to put summer 2022 holidays on sale from 5th November, with thousands of free kids’ places, low deposits from £75 per person and £0 deposit on direct debit bookings made online on offer. It comes as…
8:00 AM 31st October 2020
A (Hotel) Castle Fit For A Commander!
Phil Hopkins
Arts & Travel Editor
“I’ve been upgraded.” “Upgraded?” I quizzed. “Yes, I was made an OBE years ago and now I’ve been awarded a CBE. I am officially a Commander of the British Empire.” Pause. “I was offered a peerage but it would have involved me working in the House of Lords every day and, quite frankly,…
8:00 AM 30th October 2020
Four-night Holidays From Just £94 This Winter
Got four nights midweek to spare? If so, Aria Resort may be the answer to that eternal question: where can we go in the UK for a short break? Partial lockdown can still mean freedom but you might need to shop around a bit. Aria Resort’s four-night week midweekers start at £94…
9:00 AM 29th October 2020
Wizz Air Increases Flights To Canary Islands
Wizz Air has put additional tickets to the Canary Islands on sale from Doncaster Sheffield Airport, following the addition of the islands to the list of Travel Corridors. For those longing to escape the UK’s dreary weather for some winter sun, tickets are now on sale at wizzair.com…
9:22 AM 28th October 2020
Spooktacular Walks This Halloween
A phone app launched to promote good places to walk and connect with UK green space is taking on a new role this Halloween……advising wreckless ramblers where to find the country’s creepiest ghost walks! www.gojauntly.com has identified 30 spine-tingling walks guaranteed to have you looking over your shoulder…
9:00 AM 27th October 2020
Rabbie’s Puts Britain Back In The Saddle
Coach touring company, Rabbie’s (www.rabbies.com) is back on the road with tours departing from Manchester, London, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness and Aberdeen. And the operator has implemented a range of enhanced hygiene and social distancing measures to allow for a worry-free holiday option to explore the hidden gems…
8:00 AM 26th October 2020
‘Best Small City In The World’ Accolade
San Miguel de Allende, located in the Mexican state of Guanajuato, has been named as one of only two Mexican cities to make the annual Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards It came in at the top of the “Small Cities in the World” list alongside Mérida, Yucatán. San Miguel…
9:00 AM 25th October 2020
Maldives Dodges Quarantine Ban
With news just announced that Maldives is on the UK’s travel corridor, here’s a few destination ideas for November and December: Velassaru – www.Velassaru.com | November 2020 Turquoise Holidays (www.turquoiseholidays.co.uk) offer 7 nights at the five-star Velassaru (www.velassaru.com) through November and December 2020*...in…
8:00 AM 24th October 2020
New Cruiser For Windermere
Phil Hopkins
Arts & Travel Editor
Windermere Lake Cruises has taken delivery of a new 300-seat boat marking an 80 year first for the Lake District’s premier stretch of water. The construction of the new vessel – MV ‘Swift’ - was completed this summer, followed by successful lake trials. The vessel becomes the largest new craft to sail…
8:00 AM 23rd October 2020
Winter Well-Being in Puglia
Once a Palazzo Rosso, the newly opened and lovingly restored Paragon 700 Boutique Hotel & Spa is a unique addition to Puglia’s White City in Italy. Nestled seven meters underground, the palace’s former water chamber has been transformed into an elegant bijou spa, home to a Turkish bath, Himalayan salt wall,…
8:00 AM 22nd October 2020
UK Days Inn & Days Out With Wyndham
As October half term approaches, Days Inn by Wyndham has a number of properties within easy reach of some of the UK’s best attractions, making them ideal for a family staycation. Whether it's touring Warwickshire’s historical landmarks or following a woodland walk to the spectacular High Force Waterfalls in the North…
8:00 AM 21st October 2020
Best Suite In The House (Boat)!
Scenic Eclipse is offering guests a £500 per person suite upgrade credit on new 2021 bookings. It only applies on selected itineraries made before 31 October 2020, still enabling guests to upgrade their suite for the ultimate luxury cruising experience. Upgrade options include Verandah Suites or the 245-square-metre two-bedroom Penthouse Suite…
8:00 AM 20th October 2020
Jet2 Pushes Crete Less Than 24 Hours After Quarantine Removal
Jet2holidays has responded rapidly to the government announcement that Crete is off the government’s quarantine list, by adding more holidays in October and November from six of its UK bases including Leeds Bradford and Manchester Airports. A series of weekend flights are being offered to Crete (Heraklion) and Rhodes. After the Scottish…
7:00 AM 19th October 2020
Dubai - Gushing About Its Latest Feat!
The world’s largest fountain is set to launch at The Pointe, one of Dubai’s premier lifestyle and dining destinations by Nakheel Malls. ‘The Palm Fountain’, Palm Jumeirah’s latest waterfront attraction, will attempt to break a Guinness World Records™ (GWR) title on Thursday, 22 October during its inaugural launch event, and…
8:00 AM 18th October 2020
Saga Adventure Awaits
The latest addition to Saga’s ocean cruise fleet, Spirit of Adventure, has arrived in the UK. She joins her sister, Spirit of Discovery, in Tilbury, where she will lay up for the winter before welcoming her first guests for her inaugural cruise on the 5th February sailing to the Canary Islands. Saga…
8:00 AM 17th October 2020
Jet2 Increases Seat Capacity As Demand Rises
Phil Hopkins
Arts & Travel Editor
Flight and package holiday capacity to Rhodes and Madeira has been increased by Jet2 in response to rising demand for the two destinations. Jet2.com and Jet2holidays is adding more November services to Rhodes from five of its UK bases including Leeds Bradford and Manchester, with seats expected to sell fast given…
9:29 AM 15th October 2020
Book Early And Save - United Arab Emirates
UAE – Fujairah from £657: Treat yourself to this seven-night holiday staying at the 5* Fairmont Fujairah Beach Resort. Price includes return flights from Manchester Airport on 27 Jan and seven nights’ accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis. All holidays are priced per person and subject to availability To book visit…
7:00 AM 14th October 2020
Grylls Launches ‘Explorers Camp’ Atop Uae’s Highest Mountain
The world’s first Bear Grylls Explorers Camp (BGEC) has opened in the Middle East following the huge success of the celebrity’s UK Survival Academy. It opened this month close to the Via Ferrata on Jebel Jais in Ras Al Khaimah. As travellers across the globe navigate through the ‘new normal’, the opening…
8:00 AM 13th October 2020
Wizz Air - £8.99 Tickets Doncaster Sheffield
Wizz Air has today launched a 24-hour promotion offering 10,000 passengers one-way tickets for just £8.99* on selected flights to and from Gatwick and Doncaster Sheffield Airports. The offer is for an unlimited travel period and is bookable at wizzair.com. Ahead of the official opening of its Gatwick and…
1:00 AM 13th October 2020
Big Game Hunters…But No Shooting!
Explore Poland’s fabled Białowieża Forest as part of ‘The Travelling Naturalist’ photography break departing December 5th. This small group guided tour focuses on the large, yet elusive mammals of Poland’s Biebrza Marshes and Bialowieza Forest. Studying tracks in the snow, the group will look out for European bison, wild boar, elk,…
8:00 AM 12th October 2020
Malton – God’s Own Staycation!
If Mauritius or Manila are not to your taste and Mexico seems somewhat morbid with its Day of the Dead…..then look no further than Malton in North Yorkshire, one of the county’s undiscovered gems. There’s never been a better time to head out to the East coast with all the uncertainty…
8:26 AM 11th October 2020
Staycation Highway To Hell
As thousands of Brits travel to explore new corners of the UK this summer, research has revealed a correlation between driving on unfamiliar roads and motoring offences. A survey of 2,007 British motorists, carried out by motoring solicitor specialists, Kenway Miller, has exposed the vulnerability for a lapse in concentration when…
8:00 AM 10th October 2020
Wilderness Safaris Rwanda Welcomes Guests To Bisate And Magashi
Phil Hopkins
Arts & Travel Editor
Now that Rwanda has re-opened its borders to international travellers, Wilderness Safaris has also started welcoming guests once more to Bisate Lodge at Volcanoes National Park, and Magashi Camp in Akagera National Park. “Our experienced teams at both Bisate and Magashi are thrilled to be welcoming guests back to these…
8:00 AM 9th October 2020
Tuscany Collaboration Bodes Well For Kids
A collaboration between Tuscany’s Villa Lena and UK-based mentoring company, Oppidan Education, has resulted in a great opportunity for youngsters this October half-term. At the time of writing Italy was one of a handful of ‘airbridge’ destinations still in place and not requiring quarantine upon return to the UK. So, with…
8:00 AM 8th October 2020
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