Unique Escapes

Unique Escapeswith 1st Class Holidays

Our summer has come and gone and as we approach autumn the new spring season is beginning in Australia and New Zealand.

There’s still time to book that winter holiday of a lifetime and in this edition we showcase some of Australia and New Zealand’s treasures, from the luxurious train journeys on the Ghan and Indian Pacific to the delights of Western Australia, and Laura gives us an insider’s view of her recent Grand Pacific coach tour of the North Island of New Zealand.

For a cruise with a difference we feature the unique experience of an Un-Cruise Adventure, and for something special, the ultimate Canadian experience, the Rocky Mountaineer.

If you’re thinking of Vancouver our “must see” feature is just for you and we take a look at the Yukon too, where there’s a grizzly bear to every five humans!

We are leaders in tailor making holidays to exacting standards and take pride in our high levels of expertise and customer service. If you are planning a trip to Canada, the USA, Australia or New Zealand why not ask your travel agent to give us a call, or visit us online.

Autumn 2015

TAILOR MADE SERVICE

SPECIALISTS IN SERVICE

FULL ABTA & ATOL PROTECTION

AWARD WINNING TOUR OPERATOR

ETIHAD AIRWAYSFlying Reimagined

That long flight to Australia or New Zealand can be daunting for some but when flying with Etihad you are in the best hands. They are committed to making sure that every time you fly your journey is truly remarkable; with constant innovation and re-thinking it’s the small things which make big differences. From their on-board Flying Nanny giving parents that ‘me time’ they desrve to the smart seat design and unparalleled service & comfort you really are flying with the best.

In Economy Class, Etihad have introduced new elements that will make your journey a more relaxing one. A unique pillow which also converts into a neck pillow helps you sleep and they know space is vital to you, so a blanket bag doubles up to store your personal belongings. All this combined with amenity kits, a fantastic range of food and beverage options and over 750 hours of inflight entertainment make for a comfortable and enjoyable journey.

Etihad’s Business Class experience is deisgned to give you even greater levels of comfort and choice. Enjoy a turndown service featuring a mattress, loungewear and slippers and drift away peacefully under the mood lighting. Select from their ‘Dine Anytime’ menu inspired by upmarket bistros served on a contemporary range of bone china with full sized glassware.

The elevated First Class has been brought to new heights, drawing on the best hotels and fine dining restaurants. An elegant reception service welcomes you with a fine dining menu that includes canapés, a pre-dessert course and signature cognac service. Dine at your own private table dressed with an elegant range of fine bone chinaware.

With departures from London Heathrow three times daily, twice daily from Manchester and the introduction of a daily service from Edinburgh in June 2015, there is no better reason to fly with Etihad.

DISCOVER THE CANADIAN ROCKIES BY RAIL

GoldLeaf Service bi-level dome coach SilverLeaf Service dome coach

Delicious meals served at your seat in SilverLeaf ServiceGourmet à la carte dining in GoldLeaf Service

Rocky Mountaineer welcomes guests from around the world to experience their internationally-renowned rail journeys through the Pacific Northwest and Western Canada. With luxurious surroundings, a gourmet culinary experience and some of the most stunning scenery as the backdrop, the entire experience is second to none. Roaming wildlife, tumbling waterfalls and snowcapped mountain peaks are just a few of the reasons why this is a unique way see the majestic Canadian Rockies. With countless holiday packages along four rail routes, rich in culture, history and natural wonders, there is something for everyone.

The newest route, Coastal Passage, connects Seattle, the Emerald City, with the Canadian Rockies. Along this route, the train hugs the coastline of the Pacific Northwest, at times with water on both sides of the train, giving the illusion that the train is floating on the glistening ocean.

Rocky Mountaineer’s award-winning GoldLeaf Service indulges guests with the best of rail travel. Aboard the exclusive bi-level dome coach, guests are privy to unparalleled panoramic views from the upper level as friendly Rocky Mountaineer Hosts regale travellers with colourful tales and lively history of the passing regions. On the main level, an elegant dining experience featuring a world class menu awaits. Gourmet meals are prepared onboard with the finest and freshest ingredients of Western Canada.

Rocky Mountaineer’s SilverLeaf Service is an excellent complement to GoldLeaf Service. In the custom-designed single-level dome coach, guests enjoy jaw-dropping panoramic views through oversized picture windows, hot gourmet breakfasts and lunches plated to their preference at their spacious seat, and captivating storytelling told by Rocky Mountaineer Hosts.

Onboard, guests relax and enjoy uninterrupted days, during which they have the chance to catch up, reconnect with loved ones, and create lasting memories. The only digital gadget necessary is a camera to capture the natural drama unfolding just outside the window, a welcome idea in the days of constant digital connectivity. No matter which route or package guests choose, they will be sure to have a life changing experience on the Rocky Mountaineer.

To find out more about Rocky Mountaineer and the different routes you can experience visit us online or call a member of our team on 0161 888 5606

CHOOSE YOUR ROUTE

New Zealand’s North Island is full of stunning landscapes, sprawling farmlands and geothermal wonders, where the Maori culture is rich and ever-present; our team member Laura recently travelled on a on a Grand Pacific Escorted tour of the North Island and here is a glimpse into her week...

“I flew with Cathay Pacific via Hong Kong to Auckland and got the chance to experience both their economy and premium economy cabin including their first class lounge. Cathay Pacific offered a comfortable and efficient service throughout, their premium economy was excellent. My first night was spent in vibrant Auckland were I met up with the rest of my touring companions.

On our first morning we boarded a modern 48 seater coach and met our Coach Captain Cole, and set off for a guided tour of the Kauri Museum in Northland. We then went to the Footprints Waipoua encounter, home to some of the largest remaining kauri trees, were a local guide took us through the Waipoua Forest to the largest and oldest (2000 years old) Kauri tree. Afterwards we enjoyed a scenic drive to Paihia in the beautiful Bay of Islands, our home for the next 2 nights.

The next morning we boarded a luxury catamaran for our Hole in the Rock Cruise; sailing through a few of the 144 islands located in the Bay of Islands and to the striking Hole in the Rock. We also had the opportunity to see the Bay of Islands from the air on a scenic helicopter flight, offering breath-taking views over the famous islands. That evening we took a leisurely sunset cruise up the Waitangi River to the spectacular Haruru Falls and enjoyed a freshly prepared meal onboard.

As we left the Bay of Islands the next morning we stopped for a guided tour of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds; where the signing of the treaty took place between the Maori tribes and the British. It was an informative and fun tour taking us through the Maori history; we got the chance to see the world’s largest war canoe and the famous Treaty House. We were also lucky enough to catch a Maori cultural performance at the carved meeting house.

After the tour we drove south via Whangarei, Wellsford and Warkworth to Auckland’s north shore to our next hotel in Takapuna.

AN INSIDER’S GUIDEto New Zealand’s North Island

That evening we got the chance to take a look at the Grand Pacific Tours Ultimate Coach. A full size coach reconfigured to just 20 luxury leather seats offering unparalleled comfort, every passenger gets a window seat with a fully reclining business style chair and personal storage area

The next day we headed back into Auckland for a city tour; we then continued through the picturesque countryside to Longlands Farm and Restaurant. On arrival we took a short tour around the family owned dairy farm before we enjoyed a home cooked lunch.

Next stop on our trip was Hobbiton, an activity pretty much everyone had been looking forward too. We enjoyed a guided tour around the world famous film set and finished off with a locally brewed cider in the Green Dragon Pub. Then we set off to geothermal Rotorua for a 2 night stay.

It was an early rise the following morning as we headed 487 metres above sea level on the Gondola, to the Skyline Rotorua restaurant offering spectacular views of Rotorua. We then got to ride on the luge!

The luge is part go-cart, part toboggan and we had a lot of fun racing down the trails amongst the Redwood Forest. Our next stop of the day was the Agrodome were we enjoyed a very entertaining and informative farm show and then headed to Rotorua Museum located in the iconic Bath House showcasing the culture, history and volatile landscape of Rotorua.

That evening we went to Te Puia; home to New Zealand’s Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, a live kiwi enclosure and the Pohutu Geyser. After a tour around the grounds we enjoyed an evening Maori culture show and indulged in a traditional Hangi.

On our last day of the tour we visited the famous Glow Worm Caves. An expert guide gave us an informative commentary whilst we toured the historical caves. We were then taken through the Glow Worm Caves by boat; it was an incredible experience to see the darkness gradually being lit up by tiny spots of luminescent light from the Glow Worms.

We then headed back to Auckland for our last night in New Zealand. That evening we all met at the top of the famous Sky Tower which dominates Auckland’s skyline. Standing 328 metres high, we travelled up in glass-fronted lifts and were welcomed with panoramic views over the city; a great way to finish off a fantastic week.

The next day I headed back to the UK via LA with New Zealand’s national flag carrier Air New Zealand, a fantastic airline offering superb customer service and the new on demand service allowing you to order food and drink directly from your seat is a great feature.”

So, if you’re looking for a country full of stunning scenery, culture and excitement then New Zealand is the place for you and there is no better way than experiencing it on a Grand Pacific Tour. Your Coach Captain will ensure you have the holiday of a lifetime from start to finish and nothing is ever too much trouble.

If you want to experience a similar tour take a look at our Taste of the North Island 8 day tour or call our reservations team on 0161 888 5609.

Australia is home to some of the world’s great train journeys and a trip across this vast continent allows you to recapture the golden age of rail travel with Great Southern Rail. Onboard The Ghan or Indian Pacific enjoy a unique travel experience in either Platinum or Gold Service with all meals, beverages and Off Train Excursions included.

Choose between classic Gold Service – twin cabins with upper and lower berths and compact ensuite facilities, regionally inspired meals served in the Queen Adelaide Restaurant and complimentary beverages in the comfort of the Outback Explorer Lounge. Or treat yourself to the luxury of Platinum Service with double cabins and full ensuite facilities, five course dinners and a range of complimentary beverages available in the Platinum Club carriage.

Australia’s great train journeys allow you to relax and discover Australia – the Outback, the unique flora and fauna, mining towns and amazing vistas by train from coast to coast, while receiving impeccable service in air-conditioned comfort.

AUSTRALIA’S GREAT TRAIN JOURNEYS

Queen Adelaide Restaurant

Outback Explorer Lounge

Prepare for a holiday of unimaginable proportions as the legendary Ghan takes you deep into the heart of Australia.

Discover the tropical Top End and the Outback as you journey almost 3000km in the footsteps of the camel trains from Darwin to Adelaide. Experiencing Australia at its dramatic best, you’ll be enthralled by the landscape that makes this one of the great train journeys of the world.

Enjoy the comfort of your private cabin, lose yourself in conversation with newfound travelling companions or simply gaze out of the window taking inspiration from the ever changing landscape.

When the train stops along the way, the adventures begin with a range of Off Train Excursions and Outback Stops included in your fare. Cruise the magnificent and ancient Nitmiluk Gorge, explore the Outback town of Alice Springs and step off the train at remote posts including the new Outback stops of Manguri and Marla.

The Ghan delivers so much more than an extended train ride. It promises access to parts of Australia no other holiday can come close to – the perfect balance of comfort and adventure culminating in an experience that will move you in every sense of the word.

Introducing The Ghan Expedition – this extended journey over three nights and four days via Alice Springs and Katherine also includes a stop in the unique opal mining town of Coober Pedy. Departing southbound only, every Wednesday from Darwin, The Ghan Expedition operates weekly from 3 August to 26 October 2016.

To find out more about The Ghan experience visit us online or speak to a member of our friendly team on 0161 888 5608.

THE GHAN - A ONE OF A KIND EXPERIENCE

Platinum Service Cabin by day

Platinum Service Cabin by night

Take an Off Train Excursion in the Barossa region

Gold Service Cabin by day Platinum Service Cabin by night

As the different colonies in Australia were moving towards Federation at the end of the 19th century, Western Australia was persuaded to join this new nation by promise of a transcontinental railway linking this isolated western region with the rest of the eastern colonies.

Stepping aboard the mighty Indian Pacific, you’ll feel a great sense of anticipation as this unforgettable Australian adventure begins to unfold. Whether you’re journeying from the Indian Ocean to the Pacific or the other way round, you’ll be making your way across the longest stretch of straight railway track in the world. Choose your comfort level with all inclusive travel in either Platinum or Gold Service.

The diversity of the Australian landscape that can be viewed on this remarkable 4,352 kilometre journey and the wonderful hospitality afforded to guests aboard the train, makes the Indian Pacific one of the world’s greatest train journeys.

This is a journey defined by contrasts, encompassing the towering majesty of the Blue Mountains to the barren expanse of the Nullarbor and every goldmine, ghost town and grapevine in between. Outside your window, the landscape shifts over and over, revealing hidden secrets, from long abandoned homesteads of the Nullarbor to the marvellously resilient wildflowers of Western Australia. With all of its variance, this is the definitive Australia.

From inside your cabin, you’ll be touched by the vast beauty of this magnificent country – the textures, the light, the unimaginable hues. Depending on your direction of travel you can savour the wines of the famous Barossa region, learn about the mining history of Broken Hill or Kalgoorlie or experience an outback stop in Cook or Rawlinna. And alighting from this iconic coast-to-coast journey, you’ll be far richer for the experience.

To learn more about the Indian Pacific visit us online or call us on 0161 888 5608.

INDIAN PACIFIC - FROM COAST TO COAST

TOP 5 ‘MUST SEES’

in Vancouver

Vancouver in Western Canada is a city like no other, effortlessly combining the buzz of a chic urban centre with the rejuvenating spirit of the great outdoors. Here are our top five must-sees:

1. STANLEY PARK Lush Stanley Park is the city’s cherished emerald jewel with more than 400 hectares (nearly 1,000 acres) of evergreen forests, cricket pitches, rose gardens, totem poles and beaches. Hit one of dozens of marked trails and roam freely or, for a more comprehensive exploration, join Rockwood Adventures’ Vancouver Coast Rainforest Adventure tour, which ventures deep into the heart of the park’s foliage. Stanley Park’s seawall (8.8 kilometres) is the perfect route to cycle or stroll, and provides some of the city’s best sea-to-sky mountain views. In addition to residence raccoons, beavers and squirrels, the park is also home to more than 50,000 animals at the Vancouver Aquarium ranging from friendly belugas to mesmerizing jellyfish.

2. GRANVILLE ISLAND Culinary adventurers gravitate toward this bustling foodie centre to sample artisan products and multicultural influences. The Island’s flagship is the bustling Granville Island Public Market, where exotic produce and gourmet ingredients are sold alongside global dishes and local specialties. Sample your way through this Aladdin’s den of culinary treasures on Vancouver Foodie Tours’ Granville Island Market Tour.

3. NORTH SHORE Just across the water from Vancouver’s downtown peninsula, is a green suburb that beckons with outdoor adventure. Look down at the rushing river as you cross Capilano Suspension Bridge Park’s wobbly bridge, and make time to enjoy the rainforest nature trails, totem pole collection, Treetops Adventure and Cliffwalk. A few minutes’ away, Grouse Mountain offers the ultimate mountaintop playground, starting with a thrilling gondola ascent to the summit. You’ll be greeted by jaw-dropping views, riotous lumberjack shows and – everyone’s favourite – a chance to visit Grinder and Coola, the mountain’s resident rescued grizzly bears. Grouse Mountain Ziplines guarantees an adrenaline rush, as does a trip up Eye of the Wind, the world’s first commercial wind turbine.

4. CANADA PLACE & HARBOURFRONT Canada Place is picture-perfect for photo-ops and a great place to relax and watch cruise ships glide into the city. At its tip is FlyOver Canada, a flight simulation ride that virtually soars across the country complete with wind, scents and sound. On the waterfront stop at Jack Poole Plaza for a selfie with the 2010 Olympic Cauldron. An everlasting symbol of the splendour of the 2010 Games, and offers a ready-made backdrop of cityscape, sky, Burrard Inlet and the North Shore mountains.

5. FLOATPLANE FLIGHTSEEING Vancouver boasts the largest floatplane network in the world. For many, the thrill of a floatplane ride is a novelty in itself as they experience their first watery takeoff and landing – but it’s the view from above that’s guaranteed to drop jaws as you zoom over Stanley Park, downtown Vancouver and the snowy mountain peaks.

Why not take a look at our Vancouver city break or call us for more information on 0161 888 5606.

WESTERN AUSTRALIAExperience something extraordinary

Western Australia is Australia’s largest and most extraordinary state, where 12,500km of pristine white beaches contrast with the deep red of ancient rock formations and the lush greenery of the stunning southern regions. The climate is also varied, from the Mediterranean climate of the south, to the tropical climate of the north, meaning that you can find summer in Western Australia at any time of year.

It is a nature lovers’ paradise where you can dive with the world’s largest fish – the whale shark – or snorkel with manta rays at Ningaloo Reef or swim with wild dolphins at Monkey Mia. Walk amongst the tree tops along the stunning southwest coast or explore the beehive-like formations of the Bungle Bungles in Purnululu National Park with the help of an Aboriginal guide. Broome is celebrated for its exotic history and artistic community; historic Fremantle is great for whale-watching, and is just a short boat ride from car-free Rottnest Island, while Margaret River has become a centre for gourmet food and wine experiences.

Towns and cities have plenty to offer too. Western Australia’s capital Perth, is four hours closer to the UK than Sydney, and has a vibrant, yet easy-going alfresco lifestyle, and is surrounded by the Swan River and Indian Ocean. Perfect being it’s the sunniest city in Australia, enjoying more than 3,000 hours of sunshine a year and there are 19 city beaches to enjoy them on.

Whether you’ve got three days or three weeks, there’s plenty to keep you occupied during your time in Western Australia; once you’ve exhausted the beaches of Perth and sampled some of the fantastic food and wine in the myriad of quirky new bars and restaurants, pick up your hire car or motorhome and hit the open roads of one of the largest states in the world.

For your first visit to Western Australia or a short stopover, drive south to the Margaret River region and visit the wineries, breweries and local producers that the area is now world famous for. Admire the rugged coastline, stroll through the giant karri trees and be inspired by the aboriginal history within the underground cave systems.

With a few more days, take the road north to Shark Bay and on to Ningaloo Reef along the Indian Ocean Drive – home to awesome marine life, endless white sandy beaches and the warm, turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, playground of the gentle whale shark.

Fly to Broome and explore one of the world’s last true wilderness areas, the Kimberley. Tackle the legendary Gibb River Road, be awe-struck by some of the oldest artworks on Earth, witness the illusion of the Staircase to the Moon, or take in a Cable Beach sunset from the saddle of a camel.

To find out more about Western Australia and for suggested itineraries visit us online or call a member of our team on 0161 888 5608

The YukonA land that’s larger than life

The YukonA land that’s larger than life

The Yukon is situated in the upper northwest corner of Canada, next to Alaska. Its jaw-dropping natural features are what set this place apart - a land rich with dramatic mountain vistas, wild rivers, crystal clear lakes and pristine wilderness.

Home to Canada’s highest mountain, Mount Logan, and one of the largest non-polar icefields, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kluane National Park; breathtaking doesn’t describe its vastness or beauty! The Yukon is one of North America’s major wilderness attractions; with 5,000-metre peaks, forested valleys and unspoiled waters. It is home to more than 160,000 caribou, 70,000 moose, 22,000 mountain sheep, 7,000 grizzly bears and 250 species of birds… and only 36,000 people!

The Klondike Gold Rush of 1898 put the Yukon on the world map. And visitors can still experience this period in history by visiting Dawson City, a lively place bursting with heritage sites and attractions. You’ll feel the grit, heartache and golden dreams of the Gold Rush when you visit this frontier town. Another of the Yukon’s heritage attractions, The White Pass and Yukon Route railway, climbs almost 3,000 feet in just 20 miles and features steep grades, cliff-hanging turns, two tunnels and bridges & trestles.

From Autumn to Spring, when darkness comes to Yukon skies, the Northern Lights come out. First you might see a hint of neon colour in the starry sky, then a jagged burst of green, and soon you’re transfixed by an ethereal display of shimmering aurora borealis. Depending on auroral activity and cloud conditions, you could spend hours watching with rapt attention as the magical show unfolds overhead.

Yukon is also the land of the midnight sun, where skies are glorious and during summer the daylight never ends. The best time to visit is between May and August. With scenic drives, it’s a driver’s dream and an exhilarating combination of postcard scenery, historic communities, cultural attractions, iconic wilderness parks and the legendary Alaska, Top of the World, Klondike and Dempster highways you are bound to have an unforgettable journey discovering the Yukon.

Our new Highlights of the Yukon self-drive showcases the very best of this extraordinary region.

HOME TO MAGIC SKIES AND WILD PLACES

UN-CRUISE ADVENTURESUnrushed. Uncrowed. Unbelievable

Thoreau once wrote, “We need the tonic of wildness... We can never have enough of nature.” And Alaska delivers. Shaped by massive glaciers over millions of years, Alaska’s temperate rainforests, wildlife rich fjords, and spectacular scenery have had significant time to gain clout as a must-see destination.

Nobody does Alaska better, offers more variety, or provides adventure like Un-Cruise. Step aboard with Un-Cruise Adventures and you’ll be swept away by the magnificence of Alaska. Adventures focus on experiencing life on the outside—cloud failure or liquid sunshine—paddling, hiking, hot tub soaking under the stars, even playing in the mud. Aboard the 22 to 84 guest boutique yachts and expedition vessels get up-close and eye-to-eye with wilderness and wildlife. With Un-Cruise Adventures, it’s about small ships….and BIG adventures!

The diverse fleet is perfectly suited to foster uncommon encounters and unexpected experiences: Glacier Bay National Park; brown bears, black bears, and “polar bear plunges”; rainforests and glaciers; hiking and kayaking; humpback whales and orca; bald eagles and sea birds. Do as much or as little as you like—you have the choice in how you’d like to discover it. The expert expedition team will guide you on a unique and unforgettable journey.

Committed to delivering the unexpected, explorations are an unbeatable combination of activity and discovery, impeccable service and expertise, and awe-inspiring encounters. The small ships ensure experiences that embody exclusivity. Navigating to places larger ships can’t go and wherever sights, sounds, and opportunities—migrating whales, hidden coves, calving glaciers, bird colonies—are greatest, the adventure cruises are unmatched.

Whether traveling solo, with a companion, as a family or with a group sharing a common interest, an unimaginable platform uncovers hidden worlds and lets you learn while having fun. The things that best define your experience are all included; off-the-beaten-path explorations; casual onboard atmosphere; top-of-the-line equipment and amenities; fresh, handcrafted cuisine; exceptional, personalized service; and unforgettable camaraderie. Many of the itineraries are generously inclusive, including premium spirits, wine, beers, port taxes/fees, and a complimentary massage. Be among the few—experience real Alaska with Un-Cruise Adventures!

For more details on Un-Cruise Adventures call our friendly team on 0161 888 5606 or visit us online.

UNIQUE STAYS & EXPERIENCES in New Zealand’s South Island

Unique accommodation can be found at the Hapuku Lodge located in the whale watching town of Kaikoura. Tree Houses are built 25 metres high above the Olive Groves looking out towards the Ocean from a two person spa bath, alternatively light your wood burner and glance out over the working deer farm towards the vast mountains that surround the town. In addition the Lodge Rooms and Suites offer the highest of quality furnishing and large soak tubs. Dining at Hapuku Lodge is a treat in itself with ingredients being locally grown on the property and surrounding area.

The Lakes and Fiordland region is a must for visitors with the dramatic landscapes & lakefronts. Stopover at Maple Lodge which boasts just seven contemporary suites. Tuck in to a sumptuous afternoon tea baked by your hosts and then discover the several walking tracks, mountain range and lake activities Wanaka has to offer.

We offer a high quality, affordable collection of accommodation located in regions of natural beauty in the awe inspiring South Island of New Zealand. Our aim is to place the “wow” factor in to your journey where you will be hosted by kiwis in handpicked properties, ranging from quintessential B&B’s to Luxury Lodges.

For wine and seafood lovers, hosts at the Bay of Many Coves, set amongst the Marlborough Sounds, welcome you to embrace a relaxing stay. Your access is by water taxi and the apartments are set up on the hillside overlooking turquoise waters in a sheltered cove. Sit out on your private, secluded balcony and enjoy the birdsong whilst watching the local fishermen sail by. Located on the Queen Charlotte Track you may wish to take a “tramp” through native bush spotting our distinctive birdlife and walking in “Cooks” footsteps.

Unique Escapes...tailored to perfection by 1st Class Holidays

Published by and © 1st Class Holidays Ltd Trafford House, Chester Road, Manchester, M32 0RS

Find us at your local independent travel agent, online or call us on 0161 888 5606