Travel Western Daily Press 17 September 2013

1W

DP-E01-S4

Cyprus, so good you’ll want to move there

Western Daily Press, Tuesday, September 17, 2013

Tr a v e lTr a v e lTr a v e lTr a v e l

WESTERN DAILY PRESS TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 17 2013 TRAVEL 3WDP-E01-S42 TRAVEL TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 17 2013 WESTERN DAILY PRESS WDP-E01-S4

Make friends inthe north andsettle in Cyprus

BY MARCUS [email protected]

For many of us the dream of sellingup and moving abroad to sunnierclimes and a more relaxed pace of lifemay only ever be that – just ad re a m .

But for thousands of Brits, relocat-ing abroad to start a new life is verymuch a reality – and NorthernCyprus is increasingly becoming apopular choice of destination.

While thousands of Brits holiday inCyprus every year, most automatic-ally think of the likes of Paphos,Limassol or Ayia Napa in the Greeksouthern part of the island.

But more and more people are dis-covering Northern Cyprus, and

about ten thousand British peoplealready live there.

And you only need to look aroundthe Turkish northern part of thecountry to see how popular it is be-coming as a location to move to.Construction is big business inNorthern Cyprus; beautiful housesand villas are being built right acrossthe northern region, and with about900 estate agents trying to sell you theperfect home – Brits are not short ofchoice and help if they are looking tobuy a property over there.

Many buy houses – the majority ofwhich have them built – to use asholiday homes, but Northern Cyprusis fast identifying itself as a place torelocate permanently, either to findwork or enjoy retirement.

And with its beautiful beaches, hotweather, low levels of crime andfriendly welcoming people, you cansee why.

We stayed in Kyrenia, which issituated on the north coast of Cyprus,bounded to the north by sea and to thesouth by the greenery of the Bespar-mak mountain range – both of whichoffer spectacular views.

Ky re n i a ’s hive of activity is focusedaround its town centre, with dozensof shops, and its picturesque cobbledharbour, lined with restaurants andbars and overlooked by KyreniaCastle which dates back to the time ofthe Byzantines.

One of the hundreds of estateagents, helping Brits relocate toNorthern Cyprus is Sunbeams EstateAgents. This company is a partner-ship between builder Ali Yemeneciand Abdelazim Karrar, sales and pro-jects manager, and aims to be a ‘onestop shop’ for those wishing to moveto the area of Kyrenia or furtherafield in Northern Cyprus.

The company both builds and sellsproperties, with Ali Yemeneci, whohas 25 years experience, and his con-struction team building between 50and 60 houses every year. They pride

‘We help the customerwith everything theymight want. Our officeis a one-stop shop’

Abdelazim Karrar

themselves on giving the customerexactly what they want, with themajority of people designing theirown home with the firm’s architects,and choosing exactly which piece ofland on which they want it built.They offer individually-designedproperties, finished to an extremelyhigh specification, and take anythingbetween seven months and a year toc o m p l e t e.

Property prices in NorthernCyprus are low compared to otherparts of Europe, and for what wewould pay for a nice one bedroom flatin Plymouth, you could buy a threebedroom villa with a swimming poolin Northern Cyprus. And rather thanparting with your hard-earned cashor life savings in one go, Sunbeamsenable you to pay for your property infive stages as its being built. Once youmove into your new home, livingcosts are much lower than the UK –for example council tax is just £5.00 amonth!

Not content with simply buildingyou a stunning property, Sunbeamsalso offer a wide range of other ser-vices through its associated compan-ies to help the move to NorthernCyprus go smoothly.

These include pick up and transferto and from the airport, hotel accom-modation, worldwide removal ser-vice, car rental, importing vehicles orbuying a car in Northern Cyprus,furnishing your new home, and ap-plying for residency permits.

They also help with applying forwork permits and establishing a busi-ness in Northern Cyprus, obtaining alocal driving licence or driving les-sons, sight seeing tours and travelarrangements, and they will evenpoint you in the right direction tolearn the language.

Abdelazim Karrar said: “We helpthe customer with everything theywant. Our office is a one stop shop. Wedo pretty much everything so theyd o n’t need to look anywhere else fora ny t h i n g . ”

It is not just Brits who are makingnew lives for themselves in NorthernCyprus, Germans are also taking ad-vantage of what the area has to offer.Half of the houses built by Ali Ye-meneci are for Brits, whilst 25 percent are for relocating Germans, andthe remainder is for locals.

One couple who are making therelocation dream a reality is Jarraand Karen Brown from Greenbank inPlymouth. They have had a stunningthree-bedroom bungalow with a pool,built by Ali Yemeneci on a 1,400 sqmsite in the village of Esentepe, half anhour’s drive away from Kyrenia.

Jarra fell in love with NorthernCyprus when he first visited the

country in 1981 when he was workingfor the UN as a plumber. In 2003 hetook Karen there on holiday, and thearea had a similar appeal for her. Thefollowing year they returned toNorthern Cyprus with a view tobuying a property there, and afterdoing plenty of research and with thehelp of his friends in Cyprus, Jarrafound his perfect location – on a hillon the edge of Esentepe with amazingviews of both the mountains and thesea. By November 2005, they wereproud owners of their dream home inNorthern Cyprus.

Jarra, 46, and Karen, 45, have beento Northern Cyprus four timesalready this year, and are going againat Christmas. They plan to relocateout there permanently in three yearst i m e.

Jarra, an MoD policeman, said:“Northern Cyprus is a place you fallin love with. The main attraction isthe people without a doubt. We willmove over here permanently in threeyears, I will take early retirementfrom the police and start the nextchapter of our lives in a crime-freee nv i ro n m e n t .

“When I look back, I think would Ihave done anything differently andthe answer is no. Would I recommendit? Yes. Anyone wanting to relocatehere should do their research. Takeyour time, don’t jump in, and find agood builder.”

For more information about Sun-beams Estate Agents, logon towww.sunbeamsestate.com or emailAbdelazim Karrar w w w. i n fo @ s u n -beamsestate.com.

We travelled to Northern Cypruson Cyprus Turkish Airlines fromHeathrow to Ercan Airport. Theflight is six hours, and includes anhour’s stopover in Izmir, Turkey. Westayed at the Mountain View Hotel inKy re n i a .

The rooftop pool, at Colony Hotel, Kyrenia,in Northern Cyprus

St Hilarion’s Castle, Cyprus – part of theappeal of the northern part of the island

Call us on 0844 472 4557 Mon - Fri 9am-9pm / Sat 9am-5pm / Sunday 10am-6pm Expiry date 4 October 2013NORB1609Quote

New for 2014

Terms & Conditions: Calls cost 5ppm from a BT landline. You may also be charged a connection fee. Mobile and other providers’ charges may vary. Prices “from” act as an indication only and are per person based on 2 sharing a room, subject to availability. Offers do not include transfers, travel insurance or in-flight meals. Where local country hotel taxes are charged, these arepayable locally and not included in the price advertised. All Inclusive drinks normally consist of locally produced alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. The image used is for illustration purposes only and does not reflect your actual holiday experience. Luggage allowance may vary, please check at the time of booking The above package holidays are fulfilled by Holiday Gems Ltd,agent number S6886 and ATOL number 3973 (Global Travel Group Ltd), whose booking conditions apply. Hotel rating is that of the supplier and may not be the official rating. We reserve the right to withdraw offers at any time. Travel restrictions, conditions and credit/debit card surcharges apply. Please ask at the time of booking for full details. When it’s gone, it’s gone. Fullbalance is due 14 weeks prior to departure. These suppliers are independent of Local World. When you respond, the holiday supplier and Local World may contact you with offers/services that may be of interest. Please give your mobile or email details if you wish to receive such offers by SMS or email. We will not give your details to other companies without your permission.

Our price includes:• Return flights

from Bristol Airport• Flight tax &

fuel supplements• 7 nights’

accommodation• Daily breakfast,

lunch andevening meals

• All Inclusive drinks• Luggage Allowance

CYPRUS FOUR-STARALL INCLUSIVE7 nights from

£339per person

DepartingJanuaryFebruaryMarchAprilMayJune

Prices from£339£409£449£619£669£659

The sunniest island in the Mediterranean offers an abundance ofcultural and sporting activities, beaches and nightlife. Thefour-star Crown Resorts Horizon Hotel is ideally situated onscenic Coral Bay in Paphosand you can enjoy a friendlyambience with qualityservice, indulge in the diningand socialising options, relaxat the pool or in the Spa,revitalise in the gym, or takepart in the many leisureactivities available.

LANZAROTE FOUR-STARALL INCLUSIVE7 nights from

£409per person


Prices from£409£549£549£769£599£599

Lanzarote is one of the Canary Island’s best-loved hotspotsboasting a wide appeal and plenty of year-round sun. Thefour-star Rubimar Suites are situated in the delightful PlayaBlanca, within easy reach ofall the main sights andattractions, next to MarinaRubicon and near PlayaDorada beach. They offer aspa, indoor and outdoorswimming pools, sports andfitness facilities, an excellentrestaurant, entertainmentand so much more.

New for 2014

Call us on 0844 472 4605 Or visit uswww.bririviera.co.ukQuoteBRI Request a brochure online: www.rivieratravel.co.uk/brochures

Calls cost 5ppm from a BT landline. You may also be charged a connection fee. Mobile and other providers’ charges may vary. Prices are from, per person, based on two people sharing a twin room unless stated otherwise, and are applicable to selected departure dates. These holidays and included excursions are subject to availability. Single rooms available at a supplement. Some visa costsand local departure taxes may not be included. Prices and holidays are subject to availability and change, some holidays are subject to minimum passenger numbers. Image used in conjunction with Riviera Travel. Holidays organised by and are subject to the booking conditions of Riviera Travel, New Manor, 328 Wetmore Road, Burton upon Trent, Staffs DE14 1SP ABTA V4744 and ATOL 3430protected, a company wholly independent of Local World. When you respond, the holiday supplier and Local World may contact you with offers/services that may be of interest. Please give your mobile or email details if you wish to receive such offers by SMS or email. We will not give your details to other companies without your permission.

JAPAN - LAND OF THE RISING SUNSelected departures March to November 2014

13 days from

£2699per person

Price includes:• Return direct flights from London Heathrow• Stay in hand-picked four-star hotels, with daily breakfast and three meals• See the famous sights of Tokyo - the Meiji shrine, Omotesando Street,Harajuku and the Akihabara electronic town

• Visit the stunning Nikko National Park, with its outstandingShogun-era architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site

• Take a scenic boat trip from Tokyo’s traditional Asakusa to theluxury shops of Ginza

• Enjoy astonishing views of Mt. Fuji from Lake Kawaguchi andthe hot-spring mountain spa resort of Hakone

• See the volcanic Owakudani ‘Boiling Valley’ by aerial gondola

• Travel at 189 mph on the incomparable bullet trains• Reflect on the horrors of war at Hiroshima’s Peace Park and museum• Experience the spectacular 300-foot Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji• Tour Kyoto, former Imperial capital and essence of traditional Japanwith wooden houses, geishas, stunning temples and Zen gardens

• Guided tour of Nara, Japan’s first capital• Opportunities to stay the night in a ‘Ryokan’, learn origami,traditional flower arranging or Japanese cooking

• Escorted by our experienced tour manager

WESTERN DAILY PRESS TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 17 2013 TRAVEL 3WDP-E01-S42 TRAVEL TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 17 2013 WESTERN DAILY PRESS WDP-E01-S4

Make friends inthe north andsettle in Cyprus

BY MARCUS [email protected]

For many of us the dream of sellingup and moving abroad to sunnierclimes and a more relaxed pace of lifemay only ever be that – just ad re a m .

But for thousands of Brits, relocat-ing abroad to start a new life is verymuch a reality – and NorthernCyprus is increasingly becoming apopular choice of destination.

While thousands of Brits holiday inCyprus every year, most automatic-ally think of the likes of Paphos,Limassol or Ayia Napa in the Greeksouthern part of the island.

But more and more people are dis-covering Northern Cyprus, and

about ten thousand British peoplealready live there.

And you only need to look aroundthe Turkish northern part of thecountry to see how popular it is be-coming as a location to move to.Construction is big business inNorthern Cyprus; beautiful housesand villas are being built right acrossthe northern region, and with about900 estate agents trying to sell you theperfect home – Brits are not short ofchoice and help if they are looking tobuy a property over there.

Many buy houses – the majority ofwhich have them built – to use asholiday homes, but Northern Cyprusis fast identifying itself as a place torelocate permanently, either to findwork or enjoy retirement.

And with its beautiful beaches, hotweather, low levels of crime andfriendly welcoming people, you cansee why.

We stayed in Kyrenia, which issituated on the north coast of Cyprus,bounded to the north by sea and to thesouth by the greenery of the Bespar-mak mountain range – both of whichoffer spectacular views.

Ky re n i a ’s hive of activity is focusedaround its town centre, with dozensof shops, and its picturesque cobbledharbour, lined with restaurants andbars and overlooked by KyreniaCastle which dates back to the time ofthe Byzantines.

One of the hundreds of estateagents, helping Brits relocate toNorthern Cyprus is Sunbeams EstateAgents. This company is a partner-ship between builder Ali Yemeneciand Abdelazim Karrar, sales and pro-jects manager, and aims to be a ‘onestop shop’ for those wishing to moveto the area of Kyrenia or furtherafield in Northern Cyprus.

The company both builds and sellsproperties, with Ali Yemeneci, whohas 25 years experience, and his con-struction team building between 50and 60 houses every year. They pride

‘We help the customerwith everything theymight want. Our officeis a one-stop shop’

Abdelazim Karrar

themselves on giving the customerexactly what they want, with themajority of people designing theirown home with the firm’s architects,and choosing exactly which piece ofland on which they want it built.They offer individually-designedproperties, finished to an extremelyhigh specification, and take anythingbetween seven months and a year toc o m p l e t e.

Property prices in NorthernCyprus are low compared to otherparts of Europe, and for what wewould pay for a nice one bedroom flatin Plymouth, you could buy a threebedroom villa with a swimming poolin Northern Cyprus. And rather thanparting with your hard-earned cashor life savings in one go, Sunbeamsenable you to pay for your property infive stages as its being built. Once youmove into your new home, livingcosts are much lower than the UK –for example council tax is just £5.00 amonth!

Not content with simply buildingyou a stunning property, Sunbeamsalso offer a wide range of other ser-vices through its associated compan-ies to help the move to NorthernCyprus go smoothly.

These include pick up and transferto and from the airport, hotel accom-modation, worldwide removal ser-vice, car rental, importing vehicles orbuying a car in Northern Cyprus,furnishing your new home, and ap-plying for residency permits.

They also help with applying forwork permits and establishing a busi-ness in Northern Cyprus, obtaining alocal driving licence or driving les-sons, sight seeing tours and travelarrangements, and they will evenpoint you in the right direction tolearn the language.

Abdelazim Karrar said: “We helpthe customer with everything theywant. Our office is a one stop shop. Wedo pretty much everything so theyd o n’t need to look anywhere else fora ny t h i n g . ”

It is not just Brits who are makingnew lives for themselves in NorthernCyprus, Germans are also taking ad-vantage of what the area has to offer.Half of the houses built by Ali Ye-meneci are for Brits, whilst 25 percent are for relocating Germans, andthe remainder is for locals.

One couple who are making therelocation dream a reality is Jarraand Karen Brown from Greenbank inPlymouth. They have had a stunningthree-bedroom bungalow with a pool,built by Ali Yemeneci on a 1,400 sqmsite in the village of Esentepe, half anhour’s drive away from Kyrenia.

Jarra fell in love with NorthernCyprus when he first visited the

country in 1981 when he was workingfor the UN as a plumber. In 2003 hetook Karen there on holiday, and thearea had a similar appeal for her. Thefollowing year they returned toNorthern Cyprus with a view tobuying a property there, and afterdoing plenty of research and with thehelp of his friends in Cyprus, Jarrafound his perfect location – on a hillon the edge of Esentepe with amazingviews of both the mountains and thesea. By November 2005, they wereproud owners of their dream home inNorthern Cyprus.

Jarra, 46, and Karen, 45, have beento Northern Cyprus four timesalready this year, and are going againat Christmas. They plan to relocateout there permanently in three yearst i m e.

Jarra, an MoD policeman, said:“Northern Cyprus is a place you fallin love with. The main attraction isthe people without a doubt. We willmove over here permanently in threeyears, I will take early retirementfrom the police and start the nextchapter of our lives in a crime-freee nv i ro n m e n t .

“When I look back, I think would Ihave done anything differently andthe answer is no. Would I recommendit? Yes. Anyone wanting to relocatehere should do their research. Takeyour time, don’t jump in, and find agood builder.”

For more information about Sun-beams Estate Agents, logon towww.sunbeamsestate.com or emailAbdelazim Karrar w w w. i n fo @ s u n -beamsestate.com.

We travelled to Northern Cypruson Cyprus Turkish Airlines fromHeathrow to Ercan Airport. Theflight is six hours, and includes anhour’s stopover in Izmir, Turkey. Westayed at the Mountain View Hotel inKy re n i a .

The rooftop pool, at Colony Hotel, Kyrenia,in Northern Cyprus

St Hilarion’s Castle, Cyprus – part of theappeal of the northern part of the island

Call us on 0844 472 4557 Mon - Fri 9am-9pm / Sat 9am-5pm / Sunday 10am-6pm Expiry date 4 October 2013NORB1609Quote

New for 2014

Terms & Conditions: Calls cost 5ppm from a BT landline. You may also be charged a connection fee. Mobile and other providers’ charges may vary. Prices “from” act as an indication only and are per person based on 2 sharing a room, subject to availability. Offers do not include transfers, travel insurance or in-flight meals. Where local country hotel taxes are charged, these arepayable locally and not included in the price advertised. All Inclusive drinks normally consist of locally produced alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. The image used is for illustration purposes only and does not reflect your actual holiday experience. Luggage allowance may vary, please check at the time of booking The above package holidays are fulfilled by Holiday Gems Ltd,agent number S6886 and ATOL number 3973 (Global Travel Group Ltd), whose booking conditions apply. Hotel rating is that of the supplier and may not be the official rating. We reserve the right to withdraw offers at any time. Travel restrictions, conditions and credit/debit card surcharges apply. Please ask at the time of booking for full details. When it’s gone, it’s gone. Fullbalance is due 14 weeks prior to departure. These suppliers are independent of Local World. When you respond, the holiday supplier and Local World may contact you with offers/services that may be of interest. Please give your mobile or email details if you wish to receive such offers by SMS or email. We will not give your details to other companies without your permission.

Our price includes:• Return flights

from Bristol Airport• Flight tax &

fuel supplements• 7 nights’

accommodation• Daily breakfast,

lunch andevening meals

• All Inclusive drinks• Luggage Allowance

CYPRUS FOUR-STARALL INCLUSIVE7 nights from

£339per person


Prices from£339£409£449£619£669£659

The sunniest island in the Mediterranean offers an abundance ofcultural and sporting activities, beaches and nightlife. Thefour-star Crown Resorts Horizon Hotel is ideally situated onscenic Coral Bay in Paphosand you can enjoy a friendlyambience with qualityservice, indulge in the diningand socialising options, relaxat the pool or in the Spa,revitalise in the gym, or takepart in the many leisureactivities available.

LANZAROTE FOUR-STARALL INCLUSIVE7 nights from

£409per person


Prices from£409£549£549£769£599£599

Lanzarote is one of the Canary Island’s best-loved hotspotsboasting a wide appeal and plenty of year-round sun. Thefour-star Rubimar Suites are situated in the delightful PlayaBlanca, within easy reach ofall the main sights andattractions, next to MarinaRubicon and near PlayaDorada beach. They offer aspa, indoor and outdoorswimming pools, sports andfitness facilities, an excellentrestaurant, entertainmentand so much more.

New for 2014


Calls cost 5ppm from a BT landline. You may also be charged a connection fee. Mobile and other providers’ charges may vary. Prices are from, per person, based on two people sharing a twin room unless stated otherwise, and are applicable to selected departure dates. These holidays and included excursions are subject to availability. Single rooms available at a supplement. Some visa costsand local departure taxes may not be included. Prices and holidays are subject to availability and change, some holidays are subject to minimum passenger numbers. Image used in conjunction with Riviera Travel. Holidays organised by and are subject to the booking conditions of Riviera Travel, New Manor, 328 Wetmore Road, Burton upon Trent, Staffs DE14 1SP ABTA V4744 and ATOL 3430protected, a company wholly independent of Local World. When you respond, the holiday supplier and Local World may contact you with offers/services that may be of interest. Please give your mobile or email details if you wish to receive such offers by SMS or email. We will not give your details to other companies without your permission.

JAPAN - LAND OF THE RISING SUNSelected departures March to November 2014

13 days from

£2699per person

Price includes:• Return direct flights from London Heathrow• Stay in hand-picked four-star hotels, with daily breakfast and three meals• See the famous sights of Tokyo - the Meiji shrine, Omotesando Street,Harajuku and the Akihabara electronic town

• Visit the stunning Nikko National Park, with its outstandingShogun-era architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site

• Take a scenic boat trip from Tokyo’s traditional Asakusa to theluxury shops of Ginza

• Enjoy astonishing views of Mt. Fuji from Lake Kawaguchi andthe hot-spring mountain spa resort of Hakone

• See the volcanic Owakudani ‘Boiling Valley’ by aerial gondola

• Travel at 189 mph on the incomparable bullet trains• Reflect on the horrors of war at Hiroshima’s Peace Park and museum• Experience the spectacular 300-foot Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji• Tour Kyoto, former Imperial capital and essence of traditional Japanwith wooden houses, geishas, stunning temples and Zen gardens

• Guided tour of Nara, Japan’s first capital• Opportunities to stay the night in a ‘Ryokan’, learn origami,traditional flower arranging or Japanese cooking

• Escorted by our experienced tour manager

4 TRAVEL TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 17 2013 WESTERN DAILY PRESS WDP-E01-S4


Calls cost 5ppm from a BT landline. You may also be charged a connection fee. Mobile and other providers’ charges may vary. Prices are from, per person, based on two people sharing a twin room unless stated otherwise, and are applicable to selected departure dates. These holidays and included excursions are subject to availability. Singlerooms available at a supplement. Some visa costs and local departure taxes may not be included. Prices and holidays are subject to availability and change, some holidays are subject to minimum passenger numbers. Images used in conjunction with Riviera Travel. Holidays organised by and are subject to the booking conditions of Riviera Travel,New Manor, 328 Wetmore Road, Burton upon Trent, Staffs DE14 1SP. ABTA V4744 and ATOL 3430 protected, a company wholly independent of Local World. When you respond, the holiday supplier and Local World may contact you with offers/services that may be of interest. Please give your mobile or email details if you wish to receive suchoffers by SMS or email. We will not give your details to other companies without your permission.

16 days from

£2199per person

New for 2014

THAILAND, LAOS AND THE MEKONGSelected departures from January to November 2014

Our fascinating Thailand and Laos tour combines one of Asia’s best-loved destinations with itsleast well known neighbour with immediate contrasts both apparent and intriguing. After thebright lights of Bangkok, it’s Luang Prabang in Laos - little more than a village by comparison,with quaint French colonial buildings and a charmingly slow pace of life. The beauty of thecountryside along the banks of the mighty Mekong has to be seen to be believed as we learnabout the many ethnic communities in this remote part of Indochina. We also explore some ofthe lesser known corners of Thailand - the scenic far north-east (the Golden Triangle) and thehaunting remains of the Burma-Thailand railway in the south. And that’s all before spendingsome wonderfully relaxing days on the beaches of the Gulf of Thailand.

Price includes:• A superb tour combining two of Asia’s most enchanting countries, with amazing scenery, wonderfulcultural legacies and some of the world’s most engaging people

• Explore the upper reaches of the Mekong in Laos visiting tribal communities on a fascinating two-dayboat cruise that’s way off the beaten track

• Return direct scheduled flights from London Heathrow• Stay in hand-picked four and five-star hotels, including a charming riverside eco-lodge• Stay and tour the incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site of Luang Prabang in Laos, acknowledgedas south east Asia’s best preserved traditional town

• Travel through Thailand’s famed scenic and unspoilt Golden Triangle• Spend three nights of sheer luxury at Chiang Rai’s renowned five-star Le Meridien Resort• Stay in vibrant Bangkok visiting the Grand Palace and stunning golden Wat Pho temple• Visit the poignant WWII memorial at Hellfire Pass on Burma’s ‘Death Railway’ travelling by trainover the infamous ‘Bridge on the River Kwai’

• Spend three days relaxing on the tropical white beaches of the Gulf of Thailand• Daily breakfast and eight meals included• Escorted by our experienced tour manager

8 days from

£889per person

SWITZERLAND’S BERNESE OBERLANDSelected departures May to October 2014

8 days from

£1299per person

LISBON, OPORTO AND THE DOURO VALLEYSelected departures April to October 2014

Price includes:• Return flights from London Heathrow, London Gatwickor Bristol

• Seven nights four and five-star accommodation, includinga famously luxurious Pousada, with breakfast andfour dinners

• Guided tour of Lisbon – with its magnificent squares,Baixa and Moorish quarters, cathedral and castle

• Visit to Sintra and its Royal Palace – summer residenceof the Portuguese monarchy

• Visit the astounding Monastery of Jeronimos with itsoutstanding 16th century stonework

Price includes:• Return flights from London Heathrow• Seven nights four-star superior accommodation inInterlaken, with dinner

• Four days of planned touring• Two days free with your own personal itinerary andincluded Swiss Regional Pass

• Breathtakingly beautiful scenery - mountains, lakesand valleys

• Travel by a combination of rail, post bus and lake steamer

Spectacular scenery, picture postcard villages, the gentle tinkling of cowbells drifting across lush greenpastures, elegant hotels, spotless streets, superb service and a tradition of splendid hospitality… all thesedelights are yours to enjoy on a journey to the heart of the stunning Swiss Alps.

You’ll discover the real Portugal on this tour – a rich and varied country with a proud history that’s admirablyreflected in the many fascinating places we visit. Inland Portugal, long overlooked on European itineraries,has only recently being brought to the discerning traveller’s attention. It’s one of the world’s oldest countries,Britain’s longest ally and has been ruled by the Romans, Visigoths, by the remarkable Moors and almostevery other race of invaders ever since, with all leaving their legacies.

• See holy shrine of Fatima• Tour Coimbra University, one of Europe’s oldest seats oflearning with its astonishing gilded Baroque libraryof 300,000 medieval volumes

• Guided tour of Oporto, centre of the port wine trade,with a visit to Taylor’s wine lodge

• Tour the Douro, one of Europe’s most dramaticallybeautiful river valleys

• Visit the 13th century walled city of Obidos• Escorted by our experienced tour manager

• A dramatic mountain railway ride past the majesticJungfrau, Mönch and Eiger then Kleine Scheideggand Grindelwald

• A visit to Brienz and another breathtaking ride onthe Brienz Rothorn cog railway

• A spectacular cable car ride to beautiful Lake Oeschinen• A visit to Lucerne and its picturesque waterfront• Escorted by our experienced tour manager


Calls cost 5ppm from a BT landline. You may also be charged a connection fee. Mobile and other providers’ charges may vary. Prices are from, per person, based on two people sharing, are applicable to selected departure dates and may have been rounded up or down to the nearest pound. Any applicable discounts have alreadybeen deducted. These holidays and included excursions are subject to availability. Single rooms and regional departures are also subject to availability and a supplement may apply. Prices and holidays are subject to availability and change, some holidays are subject to minimum passenger numbers. Terms and conditions apply.Holidays are operated by various suppliers which are ABTA and/or ATOL bonded where applicable. These suppliers are independent of Local World. When you respond, the holiday supplier and Local World may contact you with offers/services that may be of interest. Please give your mobile or email details if you wish to receivesuch offers by SMS or email. We will not give your details to other companies without your permission.

Call us on0844 472 4545

For more information on Dordogne & Long Stay visit:

www.diamondrailholidays.co.ukQuoteBS

63 days from £2,680

The price includes:• Eurostar from London St Pancras International to Paris• TGV from Paris to Barcelona• High-speed train from Barcelona to Madrid and from Madrid to Malaga• 21 or 63 nights in Benalmadena• 2 nights in Barcelona and 2 nights in Madrid• Breakfast everyday• Evening meal everyday at the Puerto Marina hotel• Flight from Malaga to London Gatwick• Tour Manager during all train journeys and city stopovers

WINTER SUN- ANDALUCIA & COSTA DEL SOLDeparting 23 January 2014

26 days from

£1,420per person

or for information on our other holidays visit:

www.bs.diamondhols.co.uk

Rail travel from your local area for £39Indulge your senses in the beautiful Dordogne region of France. Medieval towns and villages nestle amidstthe rolling scenery, fairytale castles pepper the landscape and the river is the life force that ties it alltogether. Discover intriguing caves hidden and unexplored for centuries, cruise the Dordogne River aboarda traditional boat and hop aboard the Truffle Train for a trip into another era on this holiday of highlights.

The price includes:• Return Eurostar from London St Pancras International to Paris• Return TGV from Paris to Brive• Five nights’ half board accommodation• Visit and entrance to the Caves of Gouffre de Padirac• Visit to Sarlat, Souillac, Rocamadour & Martel• Distillery Tour and tasting in Souillac• A cruise on the Dordogne in a traditional Gabare• A journey on le Truffadou train (The Truffle Train)

THE DORDOGNE & THE TRUFFLE TRAINDeparting 18 May 2014

6 days from

£695per person

Escape the British winter and join us for three or nine weeks on Spain’s sunshine coast!

New for 2014

Join us on this leisurely break as we explore the west coast of Scotland.See the spectacular scenery of Loch Fyne, which offers a true Highlandexperience with rugged hills and crystal clear waters; wander theiconic Inveraray Castle; discover the wild and beautiful landscape of theKintyre Peninsula, and visit Mount Stuart on the peaceful Isle of Bute, anextravagant house fusing history, astrology, art and mythology. Our final dayis spent in Scotland’s largest city where you are free to explore or you cansee one of the greatest art collections ever created by one person at theBurrell Collection.

The price includes:• Private coach travel from your local area• Four nights’ stay with three course evening meal & cooked breakfast• Visit to Loch Fyne, the Kintyre Peninsula and the Isle of Bute• Entrance to Inveraray Castle & Gardens• Visit to Springbank Whisky Distillery, Kintyre• Entrance to Mount Stuart House & Gardens• Free time in Glasgow

LOCH FYNE, THE ISLE OF BUTE& KINTYREDeparting 13 April 2014, coach travel from BristolDeparting 13 April 2014, coach travel from Bristol

5 days from

£369per person

The Mary Rose, Henry VIII’s magnificent warship, captured the world’simagination when she was raised from the seabed in 1982, after layingthere for over 400 years. Described as England’s answer to Pompeii, sheis the only 16th century warship on display anywhere in the world andthis is a wonderful opportunity to see her up close. The £27 million stateof the art museum at Portsmouth’s Historic Dockyard showcases the MaryRose in her final stages of conservation, along with many of the 19,000artefacts discovered with her, and the crew, who have been skilfully broughtto life using forensic science. All in all this is a fascinating insight into anextraordinary era.

The price includes:• Private coach travel from your local area• One night stay with three course evening meal and cooked breakfast• Visit to Winchester• Entrance to the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard to see the Mary Rose Museum• Harbour tour by boat

THE MARY ROSE -A MAGNIFICENT WARSHIP, A UNIQUE MUSEUMDeparting 22 March 2014, coach travel from BristolDeparting 22 March 2014, coach travel from Bristol

2 days from

£129per person

Paris is a truly magical city with so much to see and do. With an includedtour and free time to make your own discoveries, you’re sure to fall as inlove with the city as countless generations of visitors have before you.Combined with included visits to the breathtaking Châteaux of Versailles andVaux le Vicomte, where grandeur reaches another level of sumptuousness,and this is a wonderful short break for anyone fascinated with beautifulbuildings and stately gardens.

The price includes:• Private coach travel from your local area• Return ferry crossing from Dover to Calais• Three nights’ bed and continental breakfast• Morning tour of Paris• Free time in Paris• Entrance to the Château of Versailles• Entrance to the Château of Vaux le Vicomte• Services of a Tour Manager

PARIS & THE CHÂTEAU OF VERSAILLES& VAUX LE VICOMTEDeparting 14 March 2014, coach travel from BristolDeparting 14 March 2014, coach travel from Bristol

4 days from

£269per person

WESTERN DAILY PRESS TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 17 2013 TRAVEL 5WDP-E01-S4

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Call us on0844 472 4655

Or visit uswww.newmarket.travel/wdp17124

Request a brochure online: www.newmarketbrochures.co.uk/wdp

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Calls cost 5ppm from a BT landline. You may also be charged a connection fee. Mobile and other providers’ charges may vary. Operated by Newmarket Air Holidays Ltd. ABTA V7812, ATOL protected 2325. Prices are perperson, based on 2 sharing. Subject to availability. Single supplements apply. Terms and conditions apply. These suppliers are independent of Local World. When you respond, the holiday supplier and Local World may contactyou with offers/services that may be of interest. Please give your mobile or email details if you wish to receive such offers by SMS or email. We will not give your details to other companies without your permission. *Bookby 30th Sept 2013 and receive a £25pp discount off 2014 holidays. When booking please quote promotional code 5HDRL9. Offer subject to availability & may be withdrawn at any time. Price shown includes discount.

THE BEST OF SPRINGTIME HOLLANDDeparting 24, 29 April and 4 May 2014

6 days now from

£694per person

This very special cruise takes in the glorious Dutchcountryside famously ablaze with the colours ofspring, and includes the canals and cobblestonesof Amsterdam, historic Rotterdam, and picturesquetowns and villages.Price includes:• Return flights to Amsterdam from Bristol• Airport to ship transfers• Five nights’ full board accommodation in a

standard cabin on board MS Olympia (upgradecabins available)• Embark in Amsterdam• Calls at Rotterdam, Volendam & Delft• See UNESCO-listed windmills and waterways• English commentary• On-board entertainment• Tour Manager services

Save

£50per couple

*

Book by 30 Sept 2013

Travel

Calls cost 5ppm from a BT landline. You may also be charged a connection fee. Mobile and other providers’ charges may vary. Operated by Newmarket Promotions Ltd. ABTA V787X.Prices are per person, based on two sharing. Subject to availability. Single supplements apply. Terms and conditions apply. These suppliers are independent of Local World. Whenyou respond, the holiday supplier and Local World may contact you with offers/services that may be of interest. Please give your mobile or email details if you wish to receive suchoffers by SMS or email. We will not give your details to other companies without your permission.

BRUSSELS AND BRUGESCHRISTMAS MARKETSDeparting 13 December 2013

YORKCHRISTMAS FAYREDeparting 30 November 2013

Visit two of Belgium’s most famous cities and soak upall the magic of their enchanting Christmas markets!Brussels is flooded with festive cheer as traditionalwooden chalets adorn the streets, and you simplycouldn’t get a more beautiful setting for a Christmasmarket than medieval Bruges. Be sure not to miss thisgreat value, festive weekend break.Price includes:• Return coach travel and ferry/Eurotunnel crossings• Two nights’ bed and continental breakfastaccommodation in a good hotel in the Brussels area

• A visit to the Christmas market in Brussels• A visit to the Christmas market in Bruges• The services of a tour manager

Get your Christmas shopping off to a flying start withthis overnight break to the hugely popular St NicholasChristmas Fayre in the heart of historic York. The finestcrafts, gifts, food, festive fun, musical entertainment,shops and stalls combine to make this a reallymemorable weekend.Price includes:• Coaching throughout the holiday• One night’s bed and Full English breakfastaccommodation at a good hotel within coachingdistance of York

• A visit to York’s St Nicholas Fayre• A visit to Leeds• The services of a tour manager

3 days from

£149per person

2 days from

£89per person

Call us on0844 472 4655

Or visit uswww.newmarket.travel/wdp

Request a brochure online: www.newmarketbrochures.co.uk/wdp

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Call us on0844 472 4569Or visit us www.bristoleveningpost.theatre.travel

QuoteBRI

Travel

Calls cost 5ppm from a BT landline. You may also be charged a connection fee. Mobile and other providers’ charges may vary. Prices are from, per person, based on two people sharinga standard room unless stated otherwise and may have been rounded up or down to the nearest pound. Any applicable discounts have already been deducted. These holidays aresubjected to availability, book by dates may apply. Single rooms are also subject to availability and a supplement may apply. Prices and holidays are subject to availability and change,some holidays are subject to minimum passenger numbers. Terms and conditions apply. These holidays are operated by Omega Events Ltd, ABTA Y590X. This supplier is independent ofLocal World. When you respond, the holiday supplier and Local World may contact you with offers/services that may be of interest. Please give your mobile or email details if you wishto receive such offers by SMS or email. We will not give your details to other companies without your permission.

SATURDAY NIGHT

Saturdaydepartures, 12 October, 9 & 23 November,and 7 & 21 December 2013

Saturdaydepartures, 26 October, 23 November,28 December2013 and 25 January2014

LONDON THEATRE

The price includes:• Overnight stay at a 4-star outer London hotel

with dinner and full English breakfast• After-dinner disco• A ticket for a Saturday matinee performance of the show

of your choice, with up to four different ticket categoriesavailable per show

• Free time in London for shopping or sightseeing• Return coach travel from Bristol

2 days by Coachfrom

£130per person

LONDON THEATRE

28 December 2013 and 25 January 2014

2 days by Coachfrom

£140per person

DINE AND DANCE

The price includes:• Overnight stay at a 4-star outer London hotel

with full English breakfast• A ticket for a Saturday evening performance of the show

of your choice, with up to four different ticket categoriesavailable per show

• Free time in London for shopping or sightseeing• Return coach travel from Bristol

See one of London’s dazzling West End shows wowing audiences on one of these great value London theatre coachbreaks. Choose a top West End show from our fabulous selection of musicals and plays including Billy Elliot,

Dirty Dancing, Jersey Boys, Les Misèrables, Mamma Mia!, The Phantom of the Opera, The Lion King, Spamalot,War Horse and Wicked as well as The Bodyguard.

Calls cost 5ppm from a BT landline. You may also be charged a connection fee. Mobile and other providers’ charges may vary. Prices are from, per person, based on two peoplesharing, are applicable to selected departure dates and may have been rounded up or down to the nearest pound. Any applicable discounts have already been deducted. Theseholidays and included excursions are subject to availability. Single rooms and regional departures are also subject to availability and a supplement may apply. Prices and holidaysare subject to availability and change, some holidays are subject to minimum passenger numbers. Terms and conditions apply. Holidays are operated by various suppliers whichare ABTA and/or ATOL bonded where applicable. These suppliers are independent of Local World. When you respond, the holiday supplier and Local World may contact youwith offers/services that may be of interest. Please give your mobile or email details if you wish to receive such offers by SMS or email. We will not give your details to othercompanies without your permission.

Call us on 0844 472 4545 Quote BS

Travel

Or visit www.bristolep.diamondhols.co.uk

Eden is a dramatic global garden housed in the largest21st century greenhouse ever built, where plant speciesfrom all over the world have been brought together inone spectacular showcase. Our visit will be when the ‘ATime of Gifts’ festival takes place – a magical celebrationof light and the giving of time, which makes Eden asvibrant in midwinter as it is in midsummer.

The price includes:• Private coach travel from your local area• Two nights’ stay with three course evening meal &cooked breakfast

• Visits to Clarks Shopping Village & Bath ChristmasMarkets

• Entrance to the Eden Project

3 days from

£159per person

EDEN WINTER FESTIVALDeparting 29 November 2013 from Bristol

Afternoon tea in London at The Ritz is an institution initself and something everyone should try at least oncein a lifetime. With our break to London, not only do youget the chance to partake in this worldly pleasure, wehave also included a glass of bubbly at Europe’s longestchampagne bar, as well as visits to the quintessentiallyEnglish store of Fortnum & Mason and the world’s mostfamous luxury department store, Harrods.

The price includes:• Private coach travel throughout• One night bed and cooked breakfast• Visit to Fortnum and Masons and Harrods• Tour Manager escort to The Ritz• Afternoon tea at The Ritz• A glass of Champagne at the Champagne bar St Pancras• Free time in London

AFTERNOON TEAAT THE RITZDeparting 17 November 2013 from BristolDeparting 17 November 2013 from Bristol

2 days from

£199per person

WESTERN DAILY PRESS TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 17 2013 TRAVEL 7WDP-E01-S4

New for 2014

Alternatively, for your freebrochure, tick brochure(s)required, complete the couponand send to: NewmarketHolidays, FREEPOST KT2720,Worcester Park, KT4 8BR(NO STAMP REQUIRED)

The Best of New Zealand – NZALake Bled and Ljubljana – UCUHighlights of Argentina, Iguazú Falls and Rio – KAB

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Calls cost 5ppm from a BT landline. You may also be charged a connection fee. Mobile and other providers’ charges may vary. Operated by Newmarket Promotions/Air Holidays Ltd. ABTA V787X/V7812, ATOL protected 2325. Prices are per person, based on two sharing. Subject to availability. Single supplements apply. Terms and conditions apply. These suppliers are independentof Local World. When you respond, the holiday supplier and Local World may contact you with offers/services that may be of interest. Please give your mobile or email details if you wish to receive such offers by SMS or email. We will not give your details to other companies without your permission. *Book by 30 Sep 2013 for a £25pp discount on 2014 holidays. Quotepromotional code 7P9TX5. Offer subject to availability & may be withdrawn at any time. Prices shown include savings.

THE BEST OF NEW ZEALANDDeparting March to June, September and November 2014, flying from London Heathrow

LAKE BLED AND LJUBLJANADeparting April to September 2014, flying from Birmingham London Heathrow and London Gatwick

HIGHLIGHTS OF ARGENTINA, IGUAZÚ FALLS AND RIODeparting 30 April, 24 September and 1 October 2014, flying from London Heathrow

Join this unforgettable journey through one of the world’s mostfascinating countries, two separate – and distinct – island masses thatoffer a compelling mix of natural beauty, diverse cities and colourful,exciting resort towns, enriched by a vibrant Maori culture rooted in themists of time. Our wonderful escorted tour will include highlights of bothislands, with stays in several contrasting places of fascinating interest.

Astonishing sights abound, from the rain-forests and plunging waterfalls ofFjordland, to the alpine beauties of Central Otago, both found in the SouthIsland. The haunting desert landscape of Tongariro National Park - ‘Mordor’ inthe ‘Lord of the Rings’ movies - with its trio of brooding volcanoes, and theancient thermal spa of Rotorua, with its bubbling pools and spouting geysers,are amongst the North Island’s greatest treasures. Throughout, sweepingseascapes, mountain passes, strange, rare wildlife and striking plants andflowers draw the eye, while New Zealand’s cities are havens of rest andrelaxation peopled by the friendly Kiwis who are as keen to share theircountry’s beauties as they are to enjoy them themselves.

Based close to the shores of one of Europe’s most beautiful and mostcelebrated lakes, this wonderful holiday, in addition to a guidedintroduction to the delights of Bled, includes a visit to Slovenia’scharming capital, and there’s chance to join some fascinatingexcursions to discover more of Slovenia and beautiful neighbouringAustrian Carinthia.

Set at the foot of the Julian Alps, Lake Bled, surrounded by forested slopesand with its idyllic offshore island crowned by an exquisite Baroque church,is a treasure. The resort itself offers everything that one would wish for in aninternational holiday destination, with a host of shops, restaurants and shore-side bars catering to all tastes and pockets. Join our friendly tour manager fora walking tour to get to know the town and its surroundings.

Laid-back Ljubljana is one of Europe’s most delightful capitals, a Baroque gemstraddling the River Ljubljanica, with its shady, willow-lined banks. Severalelegant bridges span the river as it flows through the exquisite Old Town, thefocal point of which is the 18th century St Nicholas Cathedral. A walkaboutcity, Ljubljana offers new delights at every turn, and your visit here will beone of the highlights of the holiday.

This wonderful escorted tour to two of South America’s most engaging,enthralling and colourful countries takes in two of the continent’s most beautifuland absorbing cities, and one of the world’s greatest natural wonders, withfive nights in elegant Buenos Aires and four more in pulsating Rio de Janeirobookending a two-night stay by the plunging cascades of Iguazú Falls.

The tour begins in the Argentine capital Buenos Aires, the ‘Paris of the Americas’, acultural delight exuding history, elegance and Spanish charm through every pore.Walk in the footsteps of Eva Perón, take in the sights of ‘BA’s’microcentro heart,enjoy some of the America’s best food, and – if it’s your pleasure – ‘shop ‘til you drop’at bargain prices. Accommodation in BA’s most elegant neighbourhood, includedguided introductions to the main sights, a traditional lunch and opportunities to joinseveral exciting optional tours will all enrich your stay in this wonderful city.

The natural wonders of Iguazú’s 275 separate falls, at a point where three countriesmeet, will come in blissful contrast to BA, with the chance to cross to the Brazilianside of the torrent on an optional tour.

The tour ends in heart-stopping, glorious Rio, stunningly set beneath the Sugar LoafMountain, and fringed by the fabled golden beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema,basking in the warmth of the sun by day, and dancing to the rhythm of Samba bynight. An included tour taking in Sugar Loaf’s famous cable car, and the chanceto climb to the top of the famous Christ the Redeemer statue for the most awe-inspiring view of all, complete this wonderful South American ‘journey of a lifetime’.

Price includes:• Spend two nights close to Christchurch• Visit coastal gem Kaikoura• Mount Cook Village sits beneath New Zealand’s highest peak• Enjoy the exhilaration and stunning setting of famous Queenstown• The journey north to Fox Glacier is spectacular• Discover Abel Tasman National Park – lunch included• Wellington is a cosmopolitan, welcoming capital• Tongariro National Park’s brooding volcanoes served as dark ‘Mordor’• Spend two nights in fabled Rotorua• Waitomo’s caves – and glow-worms – are world-famous• Enjoy a tour of vibrant Auckland• Colourful Paihia is gateway to the spectacular far north• Journey to breathtaking Cape Reinga• Return flights to Christchurch, returning from Auckland• 14 nights’ room-only accommodation in good quality hotels• Inter-island ferry journey• Air-conditioned coach travel and transfers• Services of a friendly, professional tour manager

Price includes:• Return flights to Venice• Comfortable coach transfers and travel• Seven nights’bed & breakfast accommodation in the three-star HotelKrim, Lake Bled

• Walking tour of Bled• Guided visit to Ljubljana• One suitcase allowance per person• The services of a friendly, professional tour manager

Price includes:• The first five nights are spent in gloriously elegant Buenos Aires• An guided tour introduces the Argentine capital• Learn about the Peronist era on an included ‘Evita’ tour• Fly to majestic, magnificent Iguazú Falls for two nights• Explore both Argentine and Brazilian sides of the Falls• Train journey to UNESCO-listed Devil’s Throat• Unbelievable, unforgettable Rio de Janeiro for five nights• Enjoy a guided tour of the Brazilian capital• Take a cable car ride to the top of Sugar Loaf Mountain• Return flights to Buenos Aires, returning from Rio de Janeiro• Internal flights• 11 nights’ bed and breakfast accommodation in good quality hotels• Air-conditioned coach travel and transfers• Services of a friendly, professional tour manager

18 days now from

£3674per person

8 days now from

£554per person

14 days now from

£2674per person

For further information visit:www.newmarket.travel/wdp18384



SAVE £50 PER COUPLE ON ALL 2014 AIR HOLIDAYS TO DESTINATIONS OUTSIDE OF THE UK

WDPCall us on 0844 472 4655

Or visit uswww.newmarket.travel/wdp11364

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A fascinatingdouble act in aweekend at seaPacking France and Guernseyinto a weekend visit may soundambitious, but on a mini cruiseit’s a breeze, says JeremyGates

The wide blue bay is a vision ofparadise in the early morningsun: golden sand, a gentlebreeze and the curving beachalmost to myself, apart from afew children fishing for crabsamong granite rocks on thefo re s h o re.

Then I look in the other dir-ection along the shore to seethe face of conflict: a massiveconcrete bunker, presenting anarrow slit towards the wavesand built to resist bombard-ment from ships orflamethrowers flailing up theb e a ch .

It all looks in such immacu-late working order that I halfexpect a blonde, fresh-facedHans to open the hatch doorand ask politely if he couldpossibly go home please.

Now I understand why ourFred Olsen cruise liner Bal-moral stirred so much interestwith an onshore expedition onthe Channel Island of Guern-

sey entitled “The German Oc-cupation – with the chance toexplore and photograph aGerman gun emplacement”.

If you like gun emplace-ments, Guernsey’s collectionis among the world’s finest:many boast a brand new coatof Dulux, and Castle Cornet,bastion of the English Crownfor 800 years, fires an 18thcentury cannon each day.

A gentler Fred Olsen outingoffered a cycle tour of theisland, taking in some of its 27(mostly sandy) beaches andbays. With a speed limit of35mph, Guernsey has driversso careful that even amateurcyclists can amble along coun-try roads with confidence.

Cruise ships make about 120visits a year to Guernsey. It’s agrand sight when you pullback cabin curtains to see thecapital, St Peter Port, baskingin the sun.

T here’s plenty to see in a fewhours onshore: beaches andbays, the house where theFrench novelist Victor Hugopolished the final version ofLes Miserables between visitsfrom his mistress, fine sea-food, and so many bits, bobs

the fame of the ship: Balmoral,largest ship in Olsen’s fleet,starred this summer in a TVshow – The Cruise: A Life atSea in six episodes on BBCTwo. At 43,500 tonnes, she’ssmaller than Dover-Calais fer-ries, but belongs to an erawhen cruise ships were properships, rather than floatingh o t e l s.

On promenade deck, groupsgather before breakfast tocover four laps for a measuredmile. You can stretch in yoga,Pilates and exercise to music –each costing £5 per class.

It’s very traditional com-pared to “f re e s t y l e ” cr uising,but great fun too. To celebratebirthdays at dinner, thewaiters form an impromptuorchestra and serenade pas-sengers on their ukuleles.

Fred Olsen acquired theship in 2007 and added 60 morecabins. But the elegance of theopen lounges and centralatrium remains – and the lib-rary, one of the biggest afloat,is the perfect spot to find acomfy chair for a relaxing zizz,with great views of the sea.

The views are even betterfrom the Observatory Lounge,above the bridge at the front ofthe ship. A great spot for adrink before or after dinner, asa pianist tinkles melodies onthe grand piano.

Our cabin had good seaviews beyond the line of life-boats, rather than a balcony –but a settee and oodles ofliving space beyond the bed.And the bathroom was bigenough to include a bathwhere you could actually sitdown, rather than one of thoserather narrow shower cu-bicles with a plastic tray andcurtain which are standard onnew superliners.

Prior to visiting Guernsey,our boat made a stop in Hon-fleur, an historic and beau-tifully preserved town on theSeine estuary of NorthernFrance, where Parisians comeat weekends to escape thehassles of the capital.

The town’s impressive artgallery is a tribute to eminentlocal artist Eugene Boudinand fellow Impressionists, in-cluding Monet, who flour-ished on this stretch of theNormandy coast.

But the most unusualmuseum here is The MaisonsSatie, a strange mixture ofsights, sounds and funny ma-chines arranged as a musicaland visual tribute to composerErik Satie, born in Honfleur in1866.

If the weather is good, Hon-fleur and Guernsey make afascinating double act. If it’spossible to arrive inSouthampton on a Mondaymorning with a spring in yourstep, you probably need toarrive on Balmoral, with thoseukulele serenades still ringingin your ears.

TRAVEL FACTS – GUERNSEY

Jeremy Gates was a guest ofFred Olsen Cruises(www.fredolsencruises.com;0800 0355 150) which offers avariety of mini-cruises. OnDecember 6, Fred Olsen’s BlackWatch will operate a four-nightParis & Bruges voyage ex-Dover(to Rouen and Zeebrugge) from£399 per person.For more information onGuernsey, or to book a tour, visitwww.visitguernsey.com or call0800 028 5353.

and bunkers which the Ger-mans left behind.

Driving into St Peter Port,Visit Guernsey guide VivWenman points to the long slitin a solid stone wall at a roadjunction: the invaders poppeda machine gun through thegap to deter resistance, andlocals have preserved the slitfor over 70 years.

We rounded off our visitwith a splendid Sunday lunchat La Fregate restaurant(amazing value at £26 perhead), enjoyed on the terraceof a hillside vantage pointwhich looked down on Bal-moral at anchor in the wideblue bay beneath us.

We reached Guernsey on thesecond day of our whistlestopweekend cruise – which beganin Southampton on a Fridayafternoon which saw sevencruise ships going down theSolent on the evening tide.

Thirty-six hours later, as wechugged into St Peter Port,mums were slapping sunblockon the foreheads of toddlersstill wiping sleep from theireyes. Maybe I wasn’t the onlyone thinking that keeping upwith 1,300 other passengerscan be hard work!

Fred Olsen’s fleet of fourships has a reputation in thecruise world for its care ofolder travellers, especiallyover-60s. But when I checkedin by stepping gingerlybetween the push chairs, Irealised its weekend cruisesattract a wider age group.

Family reunions linking thegenerations, hen parties/girlyweekenders, even a male voicechoir from Hampshire inmatching pullovers due to per-form in Normandy – all sortsand age groups turned out forthis one! Some are drawn by

The scenic views over St Peter Port with Cornet Castle in the background, on the Channel Island of Guernsey. Below, the Balmoral cruise ship, cannons being fired at at Cornet Castle inGuernsey relaxing in the market square at St Peter Port in Guernsey PICTURES: VISITGUERNSEY/PA

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Travel Western Daily Press 17 September 2013