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<strong>Europe</strong><br />
<strong>2022</strong>
TRAVEL & HOSPITALITY<br />
AWARD WINNER<br />
2021
Sponsor and<br />
Partners<br />
TRAVEL & HOSPITALITY<br />
AWARD WINNER<br />
2021
Team<br />
Contents<br />
CEO<br />
Robert Bruce<br />
Editor-In-Chief<br />
Katherine Lozell<br />
Art Director<br />
Marcs Bacera<br />
<strong>Awards</strong> Director<br />
Brian Anson<br />
Editorial Liaison Manager<br />
David Hyde<br />
Director Of Marketing<br />
Azim Aftab<br />
Social Media Manager<br />
Apple Gatus<br />
Senior Writers<br />
Tasmai Dave & Zavier Zulfqar<br />
Contributing Writer<br />
Harry Duncton<br />
Senior Designers<br />
Maria Fernandes & Ashwin Ramesh<br />
<strong>Awards</strong> Managers<br />
Adam Cole, Alice Smith,<br />
& Stanley Lucas<br />
Research Managers<br />
Peter Clement & Mukul<br />
Contributing Writers<br />
Joseph Malabanan,<br />
& Michael Popoola<br />
Sponsor and Partners 4<br />
Team 6<br />
Contents 6<br />
Criteria 8<br />
Criteria 10<br />
Countryside Retreats12<br />
<strong>Europe</strong>an Country<br />
Retreats 14<br />
The Kaprun Edition 20<br />
Pike Paradise Lodge24<br />
Johannesbad Thermalhotel<br />
Ludwig Thoma 26<br />
Stroblhof Active Family Spa<br />
Resort 28<br />
Hotel VOS 30<br />
Quinta do Rapozinho 32<br />
Adventure in <strong>Europe</strong> 34<br />
<strong>Europe</strong>an Adventure |<br />
The Super 6 36<br />
The Mountain Men Ltd 42<br />
River Tribe 48<br />
Arctic Trucks Experience 50<br />
Dark Sky ® Alqueva 52<br />
FunFlights<br />
Helicopter-Tours 54<br />
Alpine Ski School 56<br />
Golf <strong>Europe</strong> 58<br />
Luxurious Golf Courses<br />
to Visit in <strong>Europe</strong> 60<br />
Food & Drink 66<br />
Alternative Foodie<br />
Destinations 68<br />
Elements of Food 72<br />
Bites & Walks 74<br />
Nellicious <strong>Travel</strong>s 78<br />
Raise Your Glass 80<br />
Greek Grape Wine Tours 84<br />
Nice Food and Wine Tours 86<br />
Chauffeur Your<br />
Way Around 88<br />
Transfer Tips 90<br />
Bergen Transfer Service 94<br />
Week Break Tours 96<br />
Iceland 98<br />
Experience Iceland 100<br />
Your Friend in Reykjavik 102<br />
Ireland 104<br />
Dublin | Ireland’s Playful<br />
Capital 106<br />
Unearthed Tours 108<br />
County Kerry Top 5 110<br />
Kerry Experience Tours 112<br />
United Kingdom114<br />
Unique London 116<br />
MyChocolate 118<br />
Cambridge | Take A Punt on<br />
This Cultural Hub 120<br />
The Fellows House<br />
Cambridge, Curio Collection<br />
By Hilton 122<br />
Whitby | A Hidden Gem 124<br />
Riviera Guesthouse 126<br />
Why Wales? 128<br />
Holm House Hotel 132<br />
Belfast | Northern Ireland’s<br />
Cultural Centre 134<br />
MicksTours.com 136<br />
Portugal 138<br />
Lisbon | The Laid-Back<br />
Capital 140<br />
TakingUThere 144<br />
Lisbon with Pats 146<br />
Sintra Gastronomy 148<br />
Unmissable Sites in Sintra<br />
150<br />
Algarve | More than Just a<br />
Resort 152<br />
Shantivillas Group 156<br />
Surfing in Portugal 162<br />
Bukubaki Eco Surf Resort<br />
164<br />
Spain 166<br />
Cultural Tourism Andalucia<br />
168<br />
<strong>Travel</strong> Factory Andalucía 170<br />
The Balearic Islands 172<br />
France174<br />
Paris | The City of Light 176<br />
My Private Paris 178<br />
Belgium 180<br />
Brussels | The Comfort Food<br />
Heart of <strong>Europe</strong> 182<br />
Serendip Spa & Yoga 184<br />
Netherlands 186<br />
Sights and Sounds<br />
Amsterdam 188<br />
Sebi Boat Tours 190<br />
Finland 192<br />
Helsinki | A Stylish Nordic<br />
Capital 194<br />
Helsinki TukTours 196<br />
Germany 198<br />
Alternative Berlin 200<br />
Berlinsidestories 204<br />
Italy206<br />
Alpine Paradise Trentino-Alto<br />
Adige 208<br />
Ansitz Steinbock 212<br />
Ultimate Tuscany 218<br />
ARLI Hotel Hideaway Punta<br />
Ala 222<br />
24 Hours in Campania 224<br />
GoinItaly 226<br />
Croatia228<br />
Dubrovnik | Pearl of the<br />
Adriatic 230<br />
Hotel More 234<br />
Greece236<br />
Zakynthos | A Spectacular<br />
Island 238<br />
Nefis <strong>Travel</strong> - Private<br />
Day Tours 240<br />
Santorini | A Perfect Greek<br />
Island 242<br />
Santorini’s Luxury <strong>Travel</strong> 244<br />
Alma Libre Suites 246<br />
Angel Sailing Santorini 248<br />
Athiri Santorini 250<br />
Naxos Top 5 252<br />
Naxos Island Tours 256<br />
Turkey258<br />
Istanbul | Gateway to the<br />
East 260<br />
Richmond Istanbul 262<br />
Konuk <strong>Travel</strong> 264<br />
Şirince| A Hidden Gem 266<br />
Terrace Houses Sirince 268
Criteria<br />
Service<br />
Excellence in Service is an important<br />
category, as customer service can often<br />
be responsible for having guests return<br />
year after year. We look for the hotels<br />
and tour operators that go out of their<br />
way to please their guests, those that<br />
provide a personal level of service and<br />
take the time to get to know each visitor<br />
so that they might anticipate their every<br />
need. This can be something as simple<br />
as a 24-hour concierge desk, a hotel<br />
manager who offers a personal greeting<br />
or a tour guide who is happy to create<br />
bespoke private tours – but whatever<br />
it is, we are always pleased when we<br />
encounter staff that have been trained<br />
in the art of customer satisfaction.<br />
Style & Design<br />
It is no question that style and design<br />
plays a big part in selecting our awards<br />
shortlist. A guest will form an opinion<br />
about a hotel as soon as they arrive<br />
so it is important to us that all our<br />
winners make those first impressions<br />
count. We’re certainly not partial to a<br />
particular period of architecture – but<br />
whether we’re judging a gothic castle or<br />
an environmentally friendly lodge, the<br />
criteria remains the same. We consider<br />
factors such as architectural features,<br />
use of materials, creation of spaces,<br />
décor and the overall feel. We love it<br />
when we find a hotel that tells a story<br />
though its design and construction, or<br />
offers a design that is sympathetic to<br />
the natural surroundings of its location.<br />
Local Knowledge<br />
Knowledge of the local area is essential<br />
for any organization, be it a hotel or a<br />
tour operator. The quality of services<br />
takes a great hit when the quality of this<br />
element is not up to the mark. Quite a<br />
few of our winners in this category are<br />
because they have displayed excellent<br />
knowledge about the surrounding<br />
areas. The criteria for a hotel is slightly<br />
lenient compared to a tour operator, as<br />
the latter is expected to have thorough<br />
knowledge of the area in order to<br />
provide good services.<br />
Facilities<br />
Award-winning guest rooms come in all<br />
shapes and sizes, but they all have one<br />
thing in common – a home-away-fromhome<br />
feel. The comfort of the facilities<br />
on offer are of vital importance; we look<br />
for luxurious linens, stylish bathrooms<br />
and a coordinated colour scheme that<br />
work together to create a cohesive<br />
sense of relaxation. Additional touches,<br />
such as complimentary toiletries, free<br />
wi-fi or tea and coffee making facilities<br />
are always a bonus in making us feel<br />
welcome. We’re always impressed to find<br />
hotel rooms that embrace technology<br />
and offer amenities like tablets or smart<br />
thermostat systems, but this does not<br />
always necessarily trump the traditional<br />
– four poster beds, ornate fireplaces or<br />
antique furniture can add a touch of<br />
decadence to a hotel stay.<br />
Marketing<br />
In today’s modern age, a hotel or tour<br />
operator cannot rely on word of mouth<br />
to get their message out into the world.<br />
As social media has become a vital<br />
part of everyday life, we like to see<br />
companies that go the extra mile to<br />
engage with their guests, both past<br />
and future. Attractive and informative<br />
websites and engaging and honest<br />
content are what we look for when<br />
judging a company’s use of marketing;<br />
how well they display their services, how<br />
up-to-date their content is, how well<br />
they get their brand message across,<br />
and, most importantly, how well their<br />
marketing can tempt us to go and see<br />
what they have to offer for ourselves.<br />
8<br />
9
Criteria<br />
Diversity<br />
Diversity is one important aspect that<br />
needs to be taken into consideration<br />
when in the travel and hospitality<br />
industry. It is essential to have staff<br />
that has varying diversity to ensure that<br />
the organization can properly connect<br />
with their guests. Diversity is taken into<br />
account in terms of gender, nationality<br />
as well as languages spoken among<br />
other factors. Not only do we take the<br />
diversity of the staff into account but<br />
even that of the facilities and services<br />
offered; a hotel or tour operator<br />
providing a better range of services is<br />
preferred over those that do not.<br />
Customer Reviews<br />
What better way is there to know about<br />
an organization than by getting first<br />
hand reviews? Customers are the best<br />
judges of any service as they are the<br />
ones who experience them and can<br />
assess whether they were up to the<br />
mark or not. Considering reviews from<br />
hundreds of customers gives us a fair<br />
idea about the general pros and cons<br />
of any organization and also gives us<br />
valuable inputs for the other criteria<br />
as well.<br />
Industry Knowledge<br />
It is of prime importance that an<br />
organization has thorough industry<br />
knowledge. Without knowing the nit-bits<br />
of the industry, it is difficult to flourish<br />
and provide services which are a class<br />
apart. Before any organization ventures<br />
into the industry, it is essential that<br />
they know how the industry is moving<br />
and how they should make changes to<br />
their methodologies in order to remain<br />
relevant and also be a top-performing<br />
organization.<br />
Location<br />
Location is one of the most important factors, but also one of the most subjective,<br />
as the ‘ideal’ is very much determined by the type of visitor and the type of<br />
hotel itself. However, there are a few factors we take into consideration when<br />
determining the winners of location-based awards. The first is convenience; that<br />
is, hotels that are easy to travel to. Many of our winners in this category are in<br />
convenient locations, such as adjacent to airports, close to beaches or found in<br />
the heart of easy-to-navigate cities. We are always impressed when hotels go the<br />
extra mile to take the hassle out of traveling and offer such additional services as<br />
airport shuttles or car hire services. However, we’re always excited to come across<br />
a hotel that is, to use a familiar phrase, off-the-beaten-track. A hotel that can<br />
offer something a little different, in terms of natural surroundings, can make the<br />
difference between a good holiday and an incredible one.<br />
10<br />
11
Countryside<br />
Retreats<br />
thawards.com<br />
Härnösand, Sweden 000<br />
12 13
Sometimes the best holidays are the ones where you simply get away from the hustle of modern life<br />
and retreat into the country. Essentially, it’s about taking time to concentrate on your own wellbeing,<br />
experiencing positive discomfort, or even immersing yourself within a unique culture. There’s adventure,<br />
serenity, and so much more to be had on a country retreat.<br />
EUROPEAN<br />
COUNTRY<br />
RETREATS<br />
What Makes a Good Country Retreat?<br />
Being packed into a city with millions of other people isn’t<br />
always a recipe for rest and relaxation. Unless you’re already<br />
lucky enough to live in the countryside, you probably long<br />
for quiet stretches of green far from the hustle of urban life.<br />
Luckily, the restorative effects that come from time spent in<br />
nature are usually only hours away from home.<br />
Turning off your phone, leaving your meetings and<br />
appointments behind, and stepping out into a completely<br />
natural world for a few days is something that more of us<br />
need to do. A <strong>Europe</strong>an country retreat sounds like just the<br />
way for you to complete a digital detox.<br />
Mountain<br />
The majesty of the mountains, the freshest air you’ve ever<br />
tasted, and views that seem to stretch forever… Time spent in<br />
the mountains is never wasted, so a retreat to high altitudes<br />
is a popular way to recharge.<br />
Whether you’re looking to ski down a mountain, hike up one,<br />
or simply marvel at its beauty with a drink in your hand, it’s<br />
one of our favourite ways to leave ordinary life<br />
behind.<br />
One of the most astonishing<br />
retreats we’ve found is the<br />
Karun Edition Luxury<br />
Chalets. It’s a series<br />
of wonderful rustic<br />
chalets nestled in<br />
the mountain town<br />
of Kaprun. Decked<br />
out with luxurious<br />
amenities, hot tubs,<br />
and stunning views<br />
right on the doorstep,<br />
we can’t think of a better<br />
way to relax.<br />
14 15
Lake<br />
Getting back in touch with nature doesn’t<br />
happen faster than when you’re surrounded<br />
by serene lakes, greenery, and the gentle<br />
sounds of wildlife. Lakeside retreats have<br />
always been popular, but interest has gone<br />
through the roof since COVID-19.<br />
Spending time on the lakefront, particularly<br />
on and in the water, is said to be restorative<br />
and beneficial to your health, so we think<br />
one of the best ways to slow down and<br />
breathe deeply is in Boliden Sweden at<br />
the Pike Paradise Lodge. Comfortable<br />
accommodation is offered in a traditionallybuilt<br />
lodge where you can partake in fishing.<br />
If you want to completely immerse yourself<br />
and be surrounded by water, then you<br />
should consider staying on a boat. It doesn’t<br />
get much more serene than chartering a<br />
stunning luxury yacht on Italy’s famed lake<br />
Como. Perfectly suited to a true getaway,<br />
be surrounded by water, stunning views,<br />
and a unique sense of privacy.<br />
Wellness<br />
As we lead increasingly busy<br />
lives, you might feel that one of<br />
the missing elements is time<br />
to spend on wellness. Looking<br />
after your health on a wellness<br />
retreat will allow you to return<br />
feeling rested, recharged, and<br />
healthy again.<br />
The volcanic island of Tenerife<br />
might be famous for its sun and<br />
sand, but tucked away in the quiet<br />
north is the luxury wellness resort of<br />
Johannesbad Thermalhotel Ludwig<br />
Thoma. They offer world-class<br />
regenerative health programmes, a<br />
state-of-the-art spa, a fine-dining<br />
restaurant, and luxurious rooms.<br />
If you’re looking for a familyfocused<br />
experience, then the right<br />
type of retreat for you could be the<br />
amazing Stroblhof Active Family<br />
Spa Resort. This mountainous<br />
wellness retreat offers a complete<br />
experience from start to finish.<br />
16<br />
17
Remote<br />
Sometimes, when you want to get away from it all, you really<br />
want to put as much distance between you and your regular<br />
life as possible. They say that it’s not the destination, it’s<br />
the journey, so each mile you put behind you is another<br />
worry lifted from your shoulders.<br />
It doesn’t get much more remote than the island<br />
nation of Iceland, sitting in the North Atlantic Ocean.<br />
Yes, the capital is a vibrant city, but outside of that<br />
expect deep fjords, powerful geysers, arid plains,<br />
and wild beauty that will make you feel a million<br />
miles away from regular life. For your Icelandic<br />
adventure we recommend the Hotel Vos, who<br />
combine a remote escape with a touch of class.<br />
Going truly remote doesn’t always require a long<br />
flight, though. Arguably the last true wilderness<br />
left in the UK is deep in the Scottish Highlands.<br />
Renting a cottage overlooking the stunning lochs<br />
and glens of Scotland might feel a million miles<br />
away, but it’s only a few hours by car.<br />
Cultural<br />
One way that you can retreat from your<br />
ordinary day-to-day life is to immerse<br />
yourself in the culture of another land.<br />
Explore the people, places, and food of<br />
somewhere you might think you already<br />
know with a local guide. Cultural retreats<br />
are closely linked with wellness and can<br />
help to recharge your drained batteries.<br />
It doesn’t get more immersive than a<br />
cultural tour of Norte, Portugal. You<br />
might think you know the country, but<br />
you really get under its skin with a local<br />
guide. They’ll explain to you the history<br />
of this fascinating part of Portugal that<br />
spans a millennium, find the best food<br />
and drink, and take you to places only the<br />
locals know well.<br />
When you’re looking for somewhere local to<br />
stay, it doesn’t get much better than Quinta<br />
do Rapozinho, a farm stay that’ll connect<br />
you to the culture in a much more authentic<br />
and real way.<br />
18 19
The Kaprun Edition<br />
Austria | Luxury Chalets<br />
Here at the <strong>Travel</strong> and <strong>Hospitality</strong> <strong>Awards</strong> we have the difficult yet fulfilling<br />
task of selecting winners for categories and regions across the globe.<br />
In our experience it takes a lot of dedication, practice, and motivation to<br />
maintain high standards year in year out. Leadership is key and a little in<br />
innovation goes a long way. In our experience however, very few places<br />
can do it well as The Kaprun Edition.<br />
Founded and built from the ground up by Susanne, The Kaprun<br />
Edition is considered one of Austria’s premier chalet resorts.<br />
Guests can look ahead to world class service, attention to<br />
detail, and a team happy to go the extra mile.<br />
The outstanding location in the quaint village of<br />
Kaprun means you can expect privacy as well as<br />
a lovely opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty<br />
that the region has to offer.<br />
Lodges<br />
There are six wonderful accommodation options to<br />
choose from each with its own unique selling point. The<br />
high-quality build, colour, and rustic beauty across all six<br />
are consistent, you can expect luxury amenities, superb<br />
facilities, and great service. If you’re not sure which options<br />
bests suits you then worry not, as here is our rundown of<br />
each.<br />
First up is The Kaprun Edition’s Signature Bio Chalets,<br />
of which there are six available. These stunning deluxe<br />
chalets can accommodate anywhere from 12 to a<br />
staggering 24 guests. Along with all the space you can<br />
expect wonderful hospitality in what many would deem an<br />
authentic chalet setting complete with a private sauna, hot<br />
tub, terrace, and idyllic river view.<br />
Next up is the charming Country Lodge known locally as<br />
the Landhaus Lodge. This wonderfully decorated chalet<br />
boasts eight fully furnished, modern apartments, and a<br />
spacious sauna. The apartments are roomy, fully equipped<br />
with everything you’ll need, and ideally set up to host a<br />
family or small group.<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
Schulstrasse 15, 5710 Kaprun, Austria<br />
Tel +43 664 9416950<br />
www.thekaprunedition.at<br />
info@thekaprunedition.at<br />
20<br />
21
If you’re after something a little distinct and unusual, then you’re in luck. The<br />
fabulous Adventure Lodge at Kaprun allows you to experience the rare sensation<br />
of sleeping in a giant barrel. This extraordinary chalet comes complete with three<br />
bedrooms and on the private terrace two utterly unique sleeping barrels, each<br />
with their own bathroom barrel and sauna barrel. We have no doubt you won’t<br />
ever forget the time you slept in a barrel.<br />
At Kaprun stunning mountain landscapes are a common sight but if you’re in<br />
the market for magnificent panoramic views then we recommend you check<br />
in to the appropriately named Flying Lodge. Built on stilts and up high, this<br />
lodge looks like it’s almost floating, and it’s this height that allows for such great<br />
views. There are currently two living units available within the lodge that can<br />
accommodate up to 10 people each. Expect alpine charm, modern ambience,<br />
and of course amazing views.<br />
The Mara Lodge at Kaprun offers a more<br />
affordable and value for money option.<br />
Within the Lodge there are nine rooms<br />
available, and despite the savings they<br />
still offer the same brilliant services.<br />
The Mara Lodge presents the perfect<br />
spot for those interested in a much<br />
longer stay or those looking to set up a<br />
central base in town.<br />
Finally, the newest addition to the<br />
Kaprun family, the Style Lodge. This<br />
modern lodge is home to four chic<br />
suites designed to envoke the artist<br />
in you. This includes magnificent<br />
penthouse suite that comes with a<br />
private glass sauna and whirlpool.<br />
Expect breath-taking panoramic views<br />
of the Kitzsteinhorn glacier.<br />
Further services can be arranged,<br />
and the staff are all too happy to<br />
help. Airport transfers, equipment<br />
rental, hiking tours, and ski lesson are<br />
available on request along with jacuzzi,<br />
bbq equipment, and open fireplaces for<br />
certain chalets.<br />
Going Green at Kaprun<br />
At Kaprun a core mission has<br />
always been to maintain the utmost<br />
integrity and stern dedication<br />
to sustainable and eco-friendly<br />
practices. All chalets were originally<br />
constructed using only locally<br />
sourced wood that’s harvested<br />
using sustainable methods.<br />
Other materials used in chalet<br />
construction were also sourced<br />
using local companies that are on<br />
board with a greener approach.<br />
To further this most open spaces<br />
are fully utilised as green areas<br />
with plenty of lush plants, and<br />
lovely flowers for guests to enjoy.<br />
Currently all issued company cars<br />
are electric, and all guests are<br />
welcome to a Kaprun-Zell am See<br />
travel card which allows unlimited<br />
use of public transport free-ofcharge.<br />
Things To Do<br />
The region is a ski lover’s dream, there are plenty of ski schools and rental shops around.<br />
The area is home several fine slopes with great options for beginners and experiences<br />
skiers alike. If skiing isn’t your thing however then worry not as there is still loads to do<br />
such as hiking, cross-country ski runs, tobogganing, and a luxury spa.<br />
Kaprun is much more than a winter destination, and the summer here are equally<br />
as enjoyable. The breath-taking of the area is more apparent, the mountain, lakes,<br />
waterfalls, and valleys deserve to be explored. There are plenty of bike trails active in<br />
the summer, as well as hiking routes.<br />
22<br />
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Pike Paradise Lodge<br />
Sweden | Country Lodge<br />
Nestled deep in the heart of Swedish Lapland, Pike Paradise Lodge offer an<br />
unforgettable country experience. Wildlife, adventure, natural beauty, rustic<br />
cuisine, and a warm welcome await all those fortunate enough to make their way<br />
to this part of Sweden.<br />
Martine, your host for the stay, fell in love with this region many years ago<br />
and has since then turned that passion into a profession. The core of<br />
founding Pike Paradise Lodge stems from Martine’s desire to showcase<br />
the landscape, people, and beauty of the region while simultaneously<br />
offering affordable and family-friendly accommodation. It’s fair to<br />
say this has been achieved!<br />
At Pike Paradise, there are in fact three types of self-catering<br />
lodging available. The biggest option is the award-winning<br />
Pike Paradise Lodge, which sleeps up to eight in four<br />
bedrooms. Second is Perch Haven, that sleeps six in<br />
three bedrooms, while the smallest, Fisherman’s<br />
Corner, can also sleep up to six. However, this is<br />
split with two double sofa beds and one double<br />
bedroom. All the lodges have a rustic, homely<br />
feel and are fully equipped to ensure your<br />
stay is comfortable.<br />
24<br />
The real highlight of the lodge is, of course, the location.<br />
You’ll never be bored during your stay simply because<br />
there’s so much to do and see. Cycling is extremely<br />
popular in the summer, as are forest walks, fishing, and<br />
bird watching. The midnight sun over the beautiful lakes<br />
of the region is one experience you won’t want to miss.<br />
On the other hand, in winter you can expect to do all the<br />
activities the region is known for, such as northern lights<br />
hunting, skiing, ice fishing, dog sledding, wild swimming,<br />
and driving on ice.<br />
There’s also a local village shop and café nearby where<br />
you can stock up, enjoy some local cuisine, or simply<br />
strike up a conversation with the locals.<br />
Kusfors 84,<br />
936 93, Boliden, Sweden<br />
Tel +46 76 763 34 54<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
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26<br />
Johannesbad Thermalhotel<br />
Ludwig Thoma<br />
Germany | Country Hotel<br />
In the renowned Spa town of Bad Füssing, where wellness is sacred,<br />
the Johannesbad Thermalhotel Ludwig Thoma stands out as the<br />
quintessential wellness retreat hotel. This four-star luxury resort offers<br />
a complete spa experience and houses its own indoor thermal pool<br />
with water that has been shown to offer many health benefits. The<br />
approach on the whole however is about holistic well-being,<br />
meaning guests can expect much more than a world-class spa.<br />
The Johannesbad Thermalhotel Ludwig Thoma offers fine<br />
dining, ultra-comfortable rooms, a personable service, and<br />
a relaxing to décor.<br />
Rooms are elegantly furnished, spacious, colourful,<br />
and modern. Available are three distinct room types<br />
these are standard, comfort, or suites, with each<br />
varying in size and comforts. On the whole<br />
however guests can expect a balcony, seating<br />
area, de-luxe amenities, free wi-fi, and a<br />
daily breakfast buffet.<br />
The inhouse restaurant, the Brasserie Le Pastis, is famed<br />
for its Bavarian classics mixed with light Mediterranean<br />
snacks. Whether it be delicious salads, or schnitzel, there<br />
is something on the menu for you. Of course, no trip to<br />
Bavaria is complete without sampling the beer and for<br />
this you don’t even need to leave the resort. There is a<br />
beer garden on site as a roof terrace for you to relax.<br />
The big draw of course is the wellness spa. Along with<br />
an indoor thermal pool, the Johannesbad Thermalhotel<br />
Ludwig Thoma is equipped with Finnish sauna, a<br />
whirlpool, massage treatment rooms, salt room, and<br />
a steam bath. There are several packages available all<br />
with the sole purpose of pampering. Staff are on hand to<br />
offer expert advice and the whole area is built with your<br />
wellness in mind.<br />
Ludwig-Thoma-Weg 23, 94072<br />
Bad Füssing, Germany<br />
Tel +49 8531 232909<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
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Stroblhof Active<br />
Family Spa Resort<br />
Italy | Family Friendly Resort<br />
Located in the wonderful Passeier Valley, the superb Stroblhof Active<br />
Family Spa Resort offers up an unmatchable family wellness<br />
experience. With an extensive wellness centre, excellent range of<br />
family activities, spacious rooms, and amazing cuisine, this is one<br />
resort that’ll keep you coming back again and again.<br />
Rooms and suites at the resort are homely and have been<br />
designed with space, natural light, and modernity in mind.<br />
Guests can choose from a twin room right the way up<br />
to a one-bedroom suite that can accommodate up to<br />
four people. All rooms come with deluxe amenities,<br />
a balcony offering beautiful views, a minibar, and<br />
outdoor furniture. For a further stress-free<br />
experience, you can even choose to go ¾ board<br />
which includes a lovely breakfast, hearty<br />
lunch, and exquisite dinner.<br />
In fact, at Stroblhof food is viewed as vital to wellness, meaning<br />
culinary endeavours are of the highest quality. Charismatic chef<br />
Alex Sallustio and his team emphasise the harmony between<br />
Alpine and Mediterranean cuisine in their menu with a distinct<br />
focus on local, organic produce.<br />
It’s in the wellness arena where Stroblhof really stands out. The<br />
resort is home to a fully-equipped luxury wellness centre. This<br />
tranquil setting is the perfect place to relax and get pampered.<br />
Enjoy a total of five unique pools, including a children’s pool, a<br />
stunning roof top sauna with 360-degree views, an outdoor<br />
steam bath, massages, body treatments, a state-of-the-art<br />
fitness area, a beauty lounge, and health foods at the day-time<br />
café. If this isn’t enough, there’s also range of classes available<br />
such yoga, aqua aerobics, Pilates, and back gymnastics.<br />
For families, dedicated kids club on site offer a whole host<br />
of activities. These include football, basketball, table tennis,<br />
billiards, kids’ games, and console gaming, as well as an evening<br />
3D cinema. The picturesque mountain village setting of the<br />
resort lends itself to further pastimes such as horse riding,<br />
cycling, and hiking.<br />
Via Passiria, 28/29, 39015<br />
San Leonardo In Passiria<br />
Province of Bolzano, Italy<br />
Tel +39 0473010500<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
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Hotel VOS<br />
Iceland | Boutique Country Hotel<br />
Set amongst the beautifully rugged Icelandic landscape, Hotel Vos is a<br />
small, family-run hotel where excellent service and guest comfort is the<br />
order of the day. Its unique location at Norður-Nýjabæ farm in the village<br />
of Þykkvibær, only 3 km from the coast, makes it the perfect location for<br />
exploring the fascinating region of South Iceland.<br />
This single-storey property houses a total of 18 ensuite rooms.<br />
There are three types of rooms available, the first being a standard<br />
room, the second a slightly larger superior room, and finally the<br />
much bigger family room that can accommodate up to three<br />
adults and is wheelchair accessible. All rooms are designed<br />
in a slick contemporary style and come with a TV, work<br />
desk, toiletries, flat screen TV, access to a hot tub, and<br />
a complimentary breakfast buffet.<br />
For the other meals of the day, you’re in luck: the hotel is also<br />
home to the ever-popular Vos Restaurant. This modern and<br />
elegant dining establishment is centred on serving a range of<br />
hearty dishes using fresh local produce. We recommend the<br />
Skyr Cake, which is uniquely Icelandic, tasty, and filling. What<br />
more could you want?<br />
One of the big draws of Hotel Vos is its rural location. It’s ideally<br />
situated to explore the area, see some of Iceland’s most popular<br />
attractions, and take part in adventure activities. Conveniently,<br />
the hotel hosts a tour desk to provide information. Horse riding,<br />
glacier tours, northern lights hunting, waterfall excursions,<br />
hiking, and so much more can be arranged. Or, if you prefer, the<br />
hotel can arrange a rental car so you can explore to your heart’s<br />
content.<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
Norður-Nýjabæ<br />
851 Þykkvibær, Iceland<br />
Tel +354 554 8800<br />
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Quinta do Rapozinho<br />
Portugal | Country Villa<br />
Located in the rural heartland of the district of Braga, Quinta do Rapozinho is<br />
the perfect chilled-out country retreat. Set at the foothills of the majestic<br />
Serra da Cabreira Mountain, Quinta do Rapozinho boasts six different rustic<br />
country villas, an outdoor swimming pool, and panoramic views.<br />
There are six different villas to choose from, all varying in size and<br />
group needs. The smallest villa can accommodate two adults and<br />
two children while the largest, a three-bedroom property, is fit for<br />
up to six adults and two children. The villas have a rustic quality<br />
to them; you can expect exposed bricks, wooden beams,<br />
lots of natural light, fireplaces, and hardwood flooring. The<br />
villas have been fully renovated with modern bathrooms,<br />
fully-equipped kitchens, free Wi-Fi, a lounge, BBQ<br />
equipment, an open terrace, and high-quality<br />
toiletries.<br />
quintadorapozinho.com<br />
Of all the villas, our favourite has to be Casa do Palheiro<br />
Grande, a converted barn that offer tons of space,<br />
a large balcony, and stunning views. For a unique<br />
experience, however, check out Casa dos Toneis, also<br />
known the house of barrels. This villa is designed to<br />
make innovative of use of former wine barrels that are<br />
now used for the exterior of the bedrooms and the frame<br />
of children’s beds.<br />
A wonderful fresh breakfast is served each and every<br />
morning with a great selection of bread and cakes<br />
available, made using the in-house wood-fired oven.<br />
Guests are also presented with a breakfast basket on<br />
arrival. For lunch and dinner, you can request a home<br />
meal service that includes table setting. The menu<br />
is based on traditional dishes and made using local<br />
produce.<br />
Further services and facilities include access to an<br />
outdoor swimming pool, home-made basket service for<br />
special occasions, a grocery shopping service, and a<br />
whole host of family activities and tours.<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
Rua José Machado - S. Nicolau,<br />
4860-143, Cabeceiras de Basto<br />
Portugal<br />
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Adventure<br />
in <strong>Europe</strong><br />
thawards.com<br />
Northern light evening, Iceland 000<br />
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If the sound of another beach holiday or mini city break leaves you indifferent, you may begin to wonder<br />
how to get a bit more excitement from your next trip abroad. Well, we suggest you grab your friends, get<br />
out of your comfort zone, and book an exciting adventure holiday.<br />
EUROPEAN<br />
ADVENTURE |<br />
THE SUPER 6<br />
Hiking & Camping<br />
The great outdoors doesn’t get much purer than lacing up<br />
your boots and hitting the trail. Watching a landscape unveil<br />
itself in front of you as you put one foot in front of the other is<br />
something close to a religious experience for the keen hiker.<br />
If you want rugged hills, high mountain passes, and<br />
spectacular glens, Scotland is your best friend. We work with<br />
the good people at T.M.M Experiences because they offer<br />
complete adventure packages throughout mainland Scotland<br />
and its many stunning islands. They provide all the kit and<br />
experienced instructors to make sure you can concentrate<br />
on just doing the walking.<br />
With tons of treks and walks to choose from, you can opt for<br />
a serious challenge along the West Highland Way, experience<br />
the raw beauty of the Isle of Skye, or take a gentler approach<br />
on the Arran Coastal Way on a route that’s suitable for all<br />
abilities.<br />
Rafting<br />
Navigating a river in a rubber boat with nothing more than<br />
a paddle in your hand takes teamwork, guts, and a healthy<br />
appetite for adventure. It’s one of the best ways we can think<br />
of for getting up close and personal with a river.<br />
Rafting like this as a sport was invented in Italy, so it makes<br />
sense that one of the best places to do it is in the stunning<br />
Calabrian wilderness. There to guide you through river rapids<br />
and white waters are the incredibly experienced team at River<br />
Tribe. They’re some of the best people you can do it with.<br />
Starting off at base camp on the Lao River, you can choose<br />
from an exciting range of rafting packages. From the white<br />
knuckle Fast and Furious adventure to the more sedate Fun<br />
Trip that’s suitable for kids, they’ve got it all. Be prepared to<br />
get wet!<br />
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Jeep Adventure<br />
If you want to explore some of the harshest<br />
yet most beautiful landscapes in the world,<br />
you can’t beat the Arctic State of Iceland.<br />
With 30 volcanic systems on the island and<br />
magnificent but unforgiving terrain, the best<br />
way to see it is from the comfort of a modern<br />
4x4.<br />
The Jeeps operated by Arctic Trucks are<br />
some of the finest in the business. Rugged,<br />
capable, and incredibly comfortable, they<br />
can go to places that others can only dream<br />
of. Take a trip around Iceland’s Golden Circle<br />
to see the geysers and waterfalls that make<br />
this place so special. Hop in your very own<br />
adventure machine and even get behind the<br />
wheel while being guided by an expert guide.<br />
Their fleet of Toyota Land Cruisers and other<br />
capable beasts are available for day trips,<br />
multi-day tours, and even private rental.<br />
Dark Sky Viewing<br />
It’s hard to not be awed at the almost<br />
infinite number of stars that live in our<br />
night sky. Unfortunately, most of us don’t<br />
get to experience this celestial majesty in<br />
our brightly-lit towns and cities. Luckily,<br />
the Alqueva region in Portugal has been<br />
designated as the first starlight tourism<br />
destination in the world.<br />
Getting in touch with the stars and planets<br />
above has never been easier than with<br />
Dark Sky. Their official observatory and<br />
knowledgeable guides make this place an<br />
astro-lover’s paradise. Observe the planets<br />
and look deeply into the galaxy through some<br />
of the clearest skies in <strong>Europe</strong>. If you can’t<br />
stand staying still, Dark Sky also offer kayak<br />
tours of the great lake at night. Watching the<br />
stars unfold above your head while floating<br />
on calm waters is an unforgettable way to<br />
escape ordinary life.<br />
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Helicopter Flights<br />
Since humans first watched birds soaring<br />
through the skies, we’ve wanted to join<br />
them. The perspective that we get from up<br />
high is important for us to learn our place on<br />
this planet – and we can’t think of anywhere<br />
better to take flight than the jaw-dropping<br />
setting of the Swiss Alps.<br />
Based in the Swiss capital city of Bern, aerial<br />
adventurers Fun Flights are in the business<br />
of showing you the best of the country from<br />
the air. Choose from scenic flights across<br />
Lake Thun with views of the Eiger, or even<br />
challenge yourself to a heli-skydive.<br />
Fun Flights operate one of the longest alpine<br />
helicopter flights in the world too, with their<br />
exciting Matterhorn Tour. Get up close and<br />
personal with the awe-inspiring pyramid of<br />
gneiss rock that towers over the surrounding<br />
mountains. You won’t regret it.<br />
Skiing<br />
Carving up deep powder in the Alps isn’t<br />
just part of the way of life for the Swiss but<br />
something you can experience too. Strapping<br />
on a pair of skis has got to be one of the best<br />
ways to connect with the gorgeous scenery<br />
of the Zermatt area.<br />
Located in the centre of town is our favourite<br />
group of mountain guides and teachers at the<br />
Alpine Ski School. Made up of experienced and<br />
enthusiastic ski and snowboard instructors,<br />
they offer everything from private beginner’s<br />
lessons to a ski safari to the Italian border.<br />
The original extreme sport, off-piste skiing<br />
is best done with a ski guide that knows the<br />
area like the back of their hand. Available for<br />
all levels and in multiple languages, you’re in<br />
good hands.<br />
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The Mountain Men Ltd<br />
UK | Adventure Tour Company<br />
Scotland’s Premier Wild Camp Experience<br />
Scotland is one of <strong>Europe</strong>’s most beautiful countries, its breath-taking<br />
landscapes, rugged mountains, culinary heritage, and unique culture<br />
deserves to be explored, and enjoyed. What better way to experience<br />
this than through camping with The Mountain Men? Regardless of<br />
whether it’s your first time in Scotland or your fifth, a camping trip<br />
in Scotland is the most immersive way to experience it all. With<br />
The Mountain Men, over several days, you’ll get to explore<br />
beauty spots unreachable by vehicle, visit attractions, learn<br />
about the history of the area from knowledgeable guides,<br />
and travel at your own pace. Expect reliable and safe<br />
camping equipment, good food, a warm fire, and<br />
great company.<br />
There are several trips to choose from that run<br />
throughout the year. The Scottish Experience<br />
throws up many options, challenge yourself on<br />
one of our supported hikes, some are harder than<br />
others, visit the Isles of Skye or Arran or maybe<br />
a road trip on the North Coast 500. If getting on<br />
the water is your thing then The Scottish Kayak<br />
Experience may be for you, options of a single day<br />
out on Loch Lomond, a 3 day trip to an inland loch<br />
island or even a 5 day trip through the Great Glen<br />
are available and all have their charms.<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
Tel +01355 459538<br />
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Ritchie Nash<br />
Founder & CEO at The Mountain Men<br />
Tell us a little bit about yourself<br />
I am a 56-year-old family man, married with 4<br />
children (including 3 daughters and a stepson),<br />
grandchildren and a cat. I am an ex-Infantry soldier<br />
and have spent most of my life outdoors.<br />
What was the inspiration for starting the<br />
Mountain Men?<br />
Climbing Ben Nevis for charity and training those<br />
going with me started it all, one thing led to another<br />
and after a few charity climbs I hit on the idea of<br />
the Experiences, tbh I thought someone would be<br />
doing it already so I was pleasantly surprised when<br />
I found out that there was a gap in the market.<br />
In your opinion, why does Scotland remain<br />
such a popular travel destination?<br />
The midgies, the rain and the uncertainty, what’s<br />
not to love? Seriously though we have a beautiful<br />
country, we have a rich and diverse culture and an<br />
equally rich and diverse history and Scots love to<br />
tell a story, or two.<br />
You offer several wonderful experiences. If you could only<br />
choose one, which one would you recommend for a first-time<br />
visitor?<br />
Never an easy question, it really depends on what they want to get<br />
from their experience, we have something for everyone, adventure,<br />
fun, relaxation, exploration, and we do things in such a way that we<br />
can ensure you get the most out of your experience.<br />
What advice would you give anyone interested in booking an<br />
experience?<br />
Look at the website and decide what you want to do and then ask<br />
questions, we are only too happy to answer any question, even if it<br />
seems silly, we would rather people came to us well informed as they<br />
will enjoy themselves all the more.<br />
Do you have any restrictions or requirement related to age,<br />
fitness, or medical conditions?<br />
We don’t take anyone under 3 or over 99, though if someone over 99<br />
books we will welcome them. No real fitness requirements unless<br />
pushing yourself on a walking challenge but our guests will know their<br />
capabilities better than we will, well initially. Severe disabilities may be<br />
a disadvantage but with good will and an understanding of people’s<br />
needs there is lots we can do to ensure anyone can get the benefit of<br />
the outdoors.<br />
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You’ve recently started offering<br />
an international experience to<br />
the Everest Base Camp in Nepal.<br />
What was the thinking behind<br />
this, and do you have plans to<br />
expand to any other regions?<br />
This was really a birthday treat to<br />
myself that grew legs, we will see<br />
how this experience goes before<br />
deciding If we will do more.<br />
The Isles of Raasay and Skye from Applecross, R.NASH credits<br />
You favourite holiday destination<br />
and why?<br />
Well I have to say Scotland now<br />
don’t I. Outside of work my wife and<br />
I have recently started exploring the<br />
mountain regions of Andalucia, to<br />
be honest it is a break for my wife,<br />
somewhere warm before I start my<br />
own 7-8 months of holidaying with<br />
our guests on our experiences, who<br />
was it that said “If you love what<br />
you do you never work a day in your<br />
life?”…It should have been me.<br />
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River Tribe<br />
Italy | Adventure Tour Company<br />
The beautiful Calabrian landscape lends itself perfectly to outdoor pursuits such as hiking,<br />
water sports, woodland adventures, and mountain biking. One activity that stands out is<br />
rafting, especially on the famous Lao river due to it boasting thrilling bends and spectacular<br />
scenery. To experience this in all its might and a whole host of outdoor activities, there is no<br />
one better equipped to assist you than River Tribe.<br />
Set up by experienced globetrotting adventure enthusiast Antonio Trani, River Tribe<br />
is a company founded on a passion for outdoor pursuits and love of the Pollino<br />
National Park. All experiences are designed to be authentic, in tune with nature,<br />
memorable, and environmentally ethical. The philosophy is simply: to not use<br />
nature to sell sport but to use sport to bring you closer to nature.<br />
Rafting<br />
Rafting on the Lao will take you through the heart of Calabria. Expect<br />
unspoilt natural beaty, exhilarating bends, and unforgettable<br />
memories. River Tribe offers a whole host of rafting trips set<br />
around varying ability levels, interests, and group sizes. You can<br />
choose from short family-friendly routes to bigger, multi-day<br />
experiences that include river walking, trekking, camping,<br />
and exploring a town in addition to rafting.<br />
Outdoor Activities<br />
Obviously, rafting isn’t the only activity offered by River Tribe.<br />
In fact, there are a total 14 further activities you can do. These<br />
include mountain biking, trekking, river walking, stand-up<br />
paddling, canyoning, yoga, and much more.<br />
For a more rounded experience, we recommend booking a<br />
tailored package. Combine the outdoor pursuits and enjoy the<br />
culinary heritage, history, and culture of the area.<br />
Base Camp<br />
The Pollino National Park is magnificent – now, thanks to River<br />
Tribe, you have a base camp to set up at. Built on two levels,<br />
one by the road and one by the river, the camp is where you<br />
start your journey. Here you can check in, get settled, and gain<br />
access a plethora services and facilities.<br />
For accommodation, you can choose between glamping,<br />
suspended tree tents, a camper van area, and more traditional<br />
camping. On top of this River Tribe offer changing rooms,<br />
access to the beach, pool, BBQ equipment, Wi-Fi, a bar, a shop,<br />
and yoga sessions.<br />
Loc. San Primo, 35<br />
87014 Laino Borgo (CS)<br />
Tel. +39 339 2101457 /<br />
+39 331 9210618<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
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50<br />
Arctic Trucks Experience<br />
Iceland | The Award for Excellence in Service<br />
Iceland’s unique geography, stunning landscapes, and uneven population distribution<br />
means it’s not the easiest country in the world to navigate. To see it all (and see it<br />
properly), we recommend travelling in a powerful 4x4 with an experienced, motivated,<br />
and knowledgeable guide. For this, there’s only one company: Arctic Trucks Experience.<br />
Arctic Trucks Experience offers the opportunity to see Iceland in amazing cars at your<br />
own pace. There are a variety of tours available that cover a whole host of places<br />
and activities, but one thing remains consistent and that’s the quality of service.<br />
Hiring only the best guides and putting years of experience into practice, with<br />
Arctic Trucks you can expect a safe, informative, and unique tour.<br />
Day Tours<br />
Private day tours are dynamic, exciting, and fulfilling. All tours include<br />
pick up and drop off from your hotel or guest house in Reykjavik.<br />
What happens in between is up to you! There are plenty of predesigned<br />
tours available that cover all the usual spots but<br />
also a few off-the-beaten-path sites. Popular tours are to<br />
Thórsmörk and Eyjafjallajökull, Iceland’s famed Golden<br />
Circle, Reykjanes, and Blue Lagoon, and so many more.<br />
Multi-Day Tours<br />
Extraordinary, action-packed, and memorable are three<br />
words we’d use to describe multi-day tours. These tours<br />
are a challenge, to say the least, but they offer the purest<br />
experience of Iceland. <strong>Travel</strong>ling in modified arctic trucks<br />
means you’ll get firmly off the beaten path. Expeditions go<br />
deep into the highlands and involve camping or staying in<br />
mountain huts.<br />
Two-day trips include glacier camping, Thórsmörk Valley tour,<br />
and Landmannalaugar tours. If you’ve got a bit more time, a<br />
three-day-long weekend tour covers a whole host of sites.<br />
Custom Made Tours<br />
If you know what you’d like to see or have a specific request,<br />
why not consider a custom-made tour? Flexibility is key,<br />
so designing an itinerary based on your preferences and<br />
budget isn’t an issue. As a full DMC, Arctic Trucks Experience<br />
can take care of whole package. This includes transfers,<br />
accommodation, tours, activities, and food.<br />
Klettháls 3, 110 Reykjavík, Iceland<br />
Tel +354 540 4900<br />
Mob +354 617 8000<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
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Dark Sky ® Alqueva<br />
Portugal | Unique Experience<br />
Nestled away in rural Alentejo, in Portugal, is the seemingly ordinary area<br />
of Amieira e Alqueva. One the face of it the area reflects much of the<br />
beauty of Alentejo with lovely rolling hills, wide landscapes, and quaint local<br />
life. However, dig a little deeper and you’ll realise that this area is home to<br />
one of the most unforgettable and wonderful experience you could ever<br />
have, Dark Sky Viewing.<br />
Dark Sky viewing places in the world are few and far between<br />
even less so when you consider onle a small number of places<br />
that are Starlight tourism certified. Dark Sky ® Alqueva in fact<br />
is the world first ever starlight tourism destination.<br />
The rural setting, lack of light pollution, and low<br />
population have all contributed to the area becoming<br />
a Dark Sky destination. With Dark Sky ® Alqueva<br />
you can see the sky in all its starry might, enjoy<br />
the local area, learn about the importance of<br />
Dark Sky, and play your part in contributing<br />
to a sustainable tourism model.<br />
Observatory<br />
The official Dark Sky observatory<br />
in Cumeada villas if fully equipped<br />
with cutting-edge telescopes for<br />
solar and astronomical observation.<br />
You can observe planets, stars and<br />
even craters on the moon.<br />
What to Do<br />
There is so much more to the area<br />
than simply Dark Sky viewing and<br />
the observatory. You can take<br />
part in special astrophotography<br />
workshops, take a canoe tour at<br />
night, blind wine tasting, go sailing,<br />
or take part in a guided tour.<br />
https://darkskyalqueva.com/en/<br />
activities/<br />
Where to Stay<br />
There are several local<br />
accommodation options, ranging<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
Rua de Nossa Senhora da Conceição, s/n<br />
Cumeada Village, Reguengos de Monsaraz<br />
7200-071 Campo Rmz, Portugal<br />
T. +351 913 103 540<br />
from small local guest houses to<br />
boutique hotels to big private luxury<br />
villas. You could choose to stay<br />
within the confines of a small village<br />
or a go for a more private rural<br />
experience. You can find out more<br />
- https://darkskyalqueva.com/en/<br />
accommodation/<br />
Where to Eat<br />
Alentejo is Portugal agricultural<br />
heartland so food in the area is<br />
always fresh and prepared with<br />
local herbs. The dishes are hearty,<br />
simple, and satisfying. You should<br />
also try out the local wine and<br />
famed liqueur called medronho<br />
Here are some great<br />
recommendations for restaurants<br />
- https://darkskyalqueva.com/en/<br />
gastronomy/<br />
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FunFlights<br />
Helicopter-Tours<br />
Switzerland | Adventure Experience<br />
54<br />
The Swiss Alps are quite simply breath-taking. Stretching<br />
hundreds of miles in every direction, this mountain range is<br />
for many a bucket list destination. As there’s no better way to<br />
see the alps than from above, this is why we recommend<br />
FunFlights Helicopter Tours.<br />
Running tours from the Bern-Belp Airport,<br />
FunFlights Helicopter Tours specialises in scenic<br />
helicopter flights for one to four passengers.<br />
Expect incredible and unforgettable<br />
experiences in the company of snowtopped<br />
mountains, idyllic turquoise<br />
lakes, and lush green valleys.<br />
Currently there are five varied<br />
private helicopter tours to<br />
choose from covering a wide<br />
range of areas.<br />
Should you prefer, however, you do have the option of<br />
a customised tour that includes landing on glaciers and<br />
visiting mountain hut restaurants.<br />
FunFlights currently operates in conjunction with<br />
the highly-regarded Mountainflyers Helicopter, thus<br />
guaranteeing the utmost in safety, up-to-date permits,<br />
and relevant insurance certificates.<br />
Airport Bern-Belp,<br />
Flugplatzstrasse 9<br />
(Meeting Point), CH-<br />
3123 Belp, Switzerland<br />
Tel +41 76 331 12 31<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
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Alpine Ski School<br />
Switzerland | Ski School<br />
Based in Zermatt, the outstandingly rated Alpine Ski School is<br />
headed up by pals Maxime Riviera and David “Dido” Erba,<br />
both experienced, multilingual and knowledgeable in the art of<br />
skiing, snowboarding and even mono-skiing.<br />
Maxime and David, along with their team, are passionate<br />
about their work and welcome all learners on board.<br />
Whether it’s your first day on snow or your thousandth,<br />
we have an instructor to teach any level, technique,<br />
at any time and in many languages. Our<br />
instructors live and breathe this mountain and<br />
are more than happy to share its secrets. We<br />
know the best locations to take you to, be<br />
that for the powder pockets, the food or<br />
the panoramic views.<br />
We offer three unique services: private lessons; ski safari (to Italy and<br />
back!); and niche services.<br />
1. Our most popular service: tailor-made ski and snowboard lessons in<br />
10+ languages to the highest standard in a fully private, safe and fun<br />
setting to maximise your learning and enjoyment.<br />
2. Ski safari: Guided tour to Italy and back: A unique and unforgettable<br />
experience from Zermatt to Italy and back, starting from the highest<br />
viewpoint in the Alps and taking in the best pistes, panoramic views<br />
and restaurants on both sides of the border.<br />
3. Niche services and skills if you fancy something different. Be it offpiste,<br />
ski-touring, freestyle, monoski, telemark, snowshoeing or Kids<br />
Academy, enjoy a different perspective and feel for the landscape in<br />
a safe and professional environment.<br />
We pride ourselves on providing the best learning experience, from<br />
hotel pick-up to the pistes in Zermatt and beyond. Our family-size ski<br />
school can also provide first-hand recommendations and advice for<br />
the rest of your time in Zermatt in our traditional chalet office. We are<br />
looking forward to meeting you in one of the best ski resorts in the<br />
world and expanding our snowsports community!<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
Alpine Ski School Zermatt<br />
Metzggasse 9, 3920 Zermatt<br />
Maxime Riviera<br />
Tel +41791360554<br />
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Golf<br />
<strong>Europe</strong><br />
thawards.com<br />
Lueg Switzerland<br />
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Photo by AnaIacobPhotography on Depositphotos<br />
Looking for an amazing round of golf<br />
on your travels? Here are our favorite<br />
luxurious golf courses to visit in <strong>Europe</strong> if<br />
you want a fantastic experience.<br />
LUXURIOUS<br />
GOLF COURSES<br />
TO VISIT<br />
IN EUROPE<br />
<strong>Europe</strong> is one of the most beautiful places on earth<br />
to find yourself. Packed with history, culture, art,<br />
unique cuisine, and some of the most spectacular<br />
natural beauty the world has to offer, there’s hardly<br />
a better place to be if you’re interested in having<br />
luxurious experiences.<br />
And how much more luxurious can you get than golf<br />
courses and their accompanying accommodations<br />
and amenities? Stunning nature, exquisite views,<br />
and luxury dining are just a few of the things they<br />
have to offer.<br />
Finca Cortesin Golf, Spain<br />
This resort golf course boasts everything you’d want in<br />
a luxury getaway, whether golf-related or not! Stunning<br />
mountain and Andalucia coast views, a stone’s throw from<br />
the postcard-picturesque village of Casares, and a wait-onyou-hand-and-foot<br />
kind of service…<br />
And that’s not even mentioning the fantastic golf. It’s<br />
consistently rated one of the country’s top courses to play,<br />
and the course is expertly weaved through the natural<br />
landscape so it feels like it’s been there all along.<br />
We’ve compiled a list of the most luxurious golf<br />
courses to visit in <strong>Europe</strong>. Put these on your bucket<br />
list if you live for a luxury experience because you’ll<br />
find beautiful architecture, impeccable service,<br />
and absolute tranquillity in these settings.<br />
Grab your golf clubs and your favorite person<br />
and get ready to experience the best golf resorts<br />
<strong>Europe</strong> has to offer!<br />
It’s meticulously cared for, with not a blade of grass out of<br />
place. The greens are true and speedy, the fairways excitingly<br />
undulating, and all the while you’re treated to a gorgeous sea<br />
view.<br />
When you’re finished your round, the Andalusian architecture<br />
of the hotel welcomes you to a luxurious off-course<br />
experience. Relax and allow yourself to be served delicately<br />
prepared and delectably flavored Mediterranean cuisine, float<br />
in the ocean-view pool, treat yourself to a spa experience or<br />
catch a tan in the always-stunning Spanish weather.<br />
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Luton Hoo Hotel Golf and Spa, England<br />
Welcome to the quintessential British luxury<br />
experience. Whatever your idea of a luxurious getaway<br />
entails, chances are you’ll find it at the Luton Hoo.<br />
You’ll be greeted by the Mansion House, an 18thcentury<br />
artwork of a building that houses lovely<br />
accommodations, an award-winning restaurant, and<br />
comprehensive conference facilities.<br />
The County Club is nearby and offers everything you<br />
may need to keep you busy during the lovely British<br />
days. A gym, tennis courts, biking and walking routes,<br />
bird watching, clay pigeon shooting, golf, and a fullyequipped<br />
spa (complete with infinity pool).<br />
Speaking of golf, golfers will find the course to be an<br />
exciting challenge, as well as a stunning walk. It winds<br />
through the natural landscape and is abundant with<br />
various species of trees and wildflowers.<br />
It’s one of the longest courses you’ll find in the UK,<br />
and interestingly, you won’t find a single bunker on<br />
the course. You will, however, find a variety of water<br />
hazards, tricky doglegs, and an intimidating tree right<br />
in front of hole 9’s green.<br />
Le Touquet Golf Resort, France<br />
If the romantic in you loves the idea of a luxurious<br />
vacation in France (with some golf on the side), Le<br />
Touquet Golf Resort offers everything you need to<br />
feel at home while enjoying a deluxe experience.<br />
The Anglo-Norman-designed Manor Hotel has an<br />
old-world charm to it that makes it feel warm and<br />
welcoming. Choose from five different room styles<br />
to suit your own luxurious environment needs.<br />
Situated on 350 hectares beautifully landscaped<br />
with both forest and dunes, every area of this hotel<br />
has a beautiful nature view.<br />
It also makes for spectacular golf, with the resort<br />
offering 3 separate courses (two 18-hole and one<br />
9-hole). There’s truly something for every golfer<br />
here, with a tricky links-style course, a smoother,<br />
more traditional ones, and a 9-hole practice course.<br />
And let’s not forget the fantastic French cuisine that<br />
comes as a standard here. Between the eclectic<br />
but luxury Table of the Manor restaurant and the<br />
contemporary but oh-so-local The Spoon at the<br />
clubhouse, you’ll experience a taste of true French<br />
life.<br />
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Schloss Hotel Pichlarn Spa & Golf Resort, Austria<br />
How’s this for luxury - staying in a castle at the foot of the<br />
snow-covered Austrian Alps, indulging in culinary delights from<br />
breakfast to late-night dessert, and pampering yourself with a<br />
massage, a spa treatment, or a sauna session.<br />
If you want to take advantage of the pet-friendly 18-hole golf<br />
course (one of the oldest in Austria) and its majestic views, a<br />
summer visit is a must. Winter is no less fun, though, with skiing<br />
and winter hiking on the agenda.<br />
Other unique deluxe experiences that you can choose to partake<br />
in include a steam bath or infrared room, heated whirlpools,<br />
Ayurvedic treatments, a variety of beauty treatments, and a wine<br />
lounge for those with a discerning palate, and a top-notch cigar<br />
lounge for cigar connoisseurs.<br />
The cuisine promises to delight your senses, with multiple<br />
restaurants and cafes on site. If you’re feeling like breakfast in<br />
bed or a private, delectable dinner for two, room service is every<br />
bit as luxurious as a restaurant meal.<br />
Toscana Resort Castelfalfi, Italy<br />
Food, wine, and golf… Where better to visit than Italy to experience<br />
all three in one luxurious package? Surrounded by classic Italian<br />
countryside complete with olive trees and vineyards, you’ll be<br />
treated to gorgeous views of the Tuscan hills no matter the season.<br />
There are more than 8 centuries of history in this spectacular<br />
region, and the 5-star villa-style hotel mixes modern and medieval<br />
in an effortlessly enchanting way. Rooms are split between the<br />
main hotel and the old tobacco warehouse, allowing you your<br />
choice of chic modern (elegant and smooth), or old traditional<br />
(romantic and classic).<br />
The golf is also fantastic, with 27 holes of play and jaw-dropping<br />
360-degree views. The 18-hole Mountain Course is among the<br />
most technical in the country, so don’t take it lightly! But less<br />
experienced or junior golfers will find the Lake Course to be just<br />
the right combination of enjoyment and challenge to complement<br />
the rest of the resort experience.<br />
Other wonderful experiences you can try here include beekeeping,<br />
harvesting olives, truffle hunting, horseback riding, survival<br />
courses, renting a Ferrari for a day, oil & cheese tasting, cheese,<br />
chocolate, or pizza making, and hot air balloon rides.<br />
No matter what your idea of luxury is, you can experience it at<br />
Toscana Resort Castelfalfi.<br />
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Food<br />
& Drink<br />
thawards.com<br />
Franconian gastronomic<br />
specialties called<br />
“Backstakäs, Germany 000<br />
66 67
Mediterranean cuisine is renowned the world over, from Spanish seafood to Italian pasta to Greek mezze,<br />
the gastronomic heritage of these regions is nothing short of phenomenal. While Scandinavian, French,<br />
and Turkish cuisines hold a solid reputation, Northern and Central <strong>Europe</strong>an food is overlooked more<br />
often than not. However, do a little digging and you’ll quickly realise countries in this part of <strong>Europe</strong> know<br />
more than a thing or two about producing excellent food. For a different type of epicurean holiday, you<br />
should branch out a bit.<br />
ALTERNATIVE<br />
FOODIE<br />
DESTINATIONS<br />
Germany<br />
This hugely popular holiday destination isn’t<br />
just about big frothy beers and currywurst,<br />
as good as those two might be. The food<br />
scene in Germany is more diverse than you<br />
might think, owing a lot to its multicultural<br />
population and open-minded attitude to<br />
good food.<br />
The street food scene in Berlin, especially<br />
the trendy Kreuzberg district, reflects its<br />
global population. Expect to find some of<br />
the best Vietnamese spring rolls alongside<br />
modern takes on German classics, like fresh<br />
local asparagus with mashed potato and<br />
sauerkraut, at the chic Kantine Kohlmann.<br />
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Hungary<br />
Visitors flock to Budapest, the exciting<br />
capital city that straddles the wide<br />
Danube River, for a lot of reasons,<br />
although food might not be at the<br />
tops of their lists. Steaming bowls<br />
of rich goulash served with fluffy<br />
dumplings are still on the menu,<br />
but you might not know about<br />
some of the country’s other<br />
exquisite delicacies.<br />
Ranging from simple comfort<br />
foods sold at kiosks across<br />
the country like lángos, a fried<br />
bread stuffed with garlic sauce and<br />
cottage cheese, to elaborate dishes like<br />
meggyleves, a sweet cherry soup, the<br />
Hungarians know how to fill themselves<br />
up!<br />
With the opening of the hugely popular<br />
KARAVÁN street food court, Budapest<br />
locals and visitors alike are being treated<br />
to world foods, twists on Hungarian<br />
classics, and a range of great beers to<br />
wash it all down with.<br />
Belgium<br />
We’re all familiar with Belgian chocolate, sticky waffles, and the many strong<br />
beers that come from this part of <strong>Europe</strong>, but cities like Antwerp are<br />
experiencing a foodie revolution that’s attracting hungry mouths from far<br />
and wide.<br />
You can take guided street food tours around the diamond capital of the<br />
world and tuck into local favourites like potato croquettes and crispy chips<br />
dipped in mayonnaise or push the boat out and discover the city’s growing<br />
vegan food obsession.<br />
For a proper taste of Antwerp’s incredibly fresh<br />
food scene, we recommend a visit to ‘t Fornuis.<br />
This classic restaurant has held a Michelin<br />
star since 1986 and owner and head chef<br />
Johan Segers is constantly pushing the<br />
limit of what Belgian gastronomy is all<br />
about.<br />
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Elements of Food<br />
Germany | The Award for Excellence in Culinary Experiences<br />
Founded by charismatic Israeli chef and foodie Itay Novik, Elements of Food<br />
is a culinary brand in Berlin with a twist. The aim of food tours is not simply<br />
to try different ingredients and dishes, but also to provide an immersive<br />
educational experience on the importance of food source, prep, and<br />
heritage. For Itay the food consumed today, especially in Western<br />
society, is too heavily processed and far removed from its natural<br />
origin. The ability to cook, shop for fresh produce, and to<br />
recognise organic flavours is slowly being lost.<br />
It to this end, Elements of Food goes beyond tours to offer,<br />
workshops and cooking classes so guests have the<br />
tools they need to make a positive change in eating<br />
habits. The tours put the growers and producers<br />
front and centre with a special focus on cuisine<br />
heritage, street food and diversity of Berlin.<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
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Bites & Walks<br />
Belgium | The Award for Excellence in Culinary Experiences<br />
Antwerp is a city with a deep history, rich culture, and a proud culinary<br />
heritage. Often times the city can be overlooked for more known<br />
neighbours Brussels or Bruges. However, should you decide to traverse the<br />
city with Bites & Walks, it’s fair to say you’ll discover a glorious foodie<br />
capital.<br />
Starting life as a friendly food blog, Bites & Walks has grown to<br />
become one of Antwerp’s most exciting tour companies. Nina<br />
Laviana Martinez, the founder of Bites & Walks, has combined<br />
her passion for food with the love of her hometown to<br />
create an immersive experience for tourists and locals<br />
alike. Growing up with Spanish grandparents and as<br />
the daughter of a baker, food was always a central<br />
part of Nina’s life.<br />
The tours are ultimately built around Nina’s<br />
own experiences and knowledge of the<br />
city. There are two unique food tours to<br />
choose from.<br />
The first is a Historical Food Tour that takes<br />
you to the best neighbourhood spots to<br />
sample food. You’ll walk the quaint streets<br />
of the city, hear remarkable stories, learn<br />
about the Antwerp’s gastronomic heritage,<br />
experience life like a local, and pick up some<br />
great tips for the rest of your stay. The food<br />
is all locally sourced and handmade thus<br />
guaranteeing a truly authentic experience.<br />
The other option is a vegan food tour. Not to<br />
be stuck in the past, Antwerp is continually<br />
evolving as a city and now has a thriving<br />
vegan food scene. You can try out several<br />
vegan products, pick up tips, and discover<br />
vegan hotspots. Even if you aren’t vegan<br />
this tour is a truly delightful experience.<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
Tel +0032 491 19 43 92<br />
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About a Bites & Walks Tour<br />
Stroll the streets of Antwerp guided by Nina.<br />
Bites & Walks is not just a tour but an<br />
experience brought in a unique and personal<br />
way. Revive the past and find out what<br />
exciting new young talent Antwerp has to<br />
offer! Enjoy remarkable Antwerp food stories<br />
about family histories and craftsmanship to<br />
the fullest.<br />
This is a passionate Antwerp love & food story<br />
about family history and craftsmanship!<br />
I will share with you my<br />
favorite places to take out,<br />
book a table and lead you<br />
to amazing squares and<br />
give you an inside on how<br />
Antwerp local people live.<br />
The joie de vivre and the<br />
traditional appetite of the<br />
Belgians is not a legend<br />
but a reality! During this<br />
Bites & Walks tour I will<br />
show the most beautiful<br />
small squares, give you an<br />
inside on the way Antwerp<br />
local people live and give<br />
you the best food!<br />
Savory, sweet, crispy,<br />
creamy, fish, meat, pastry<br />
… your about to taste all of<br />
it! Antwerp has delicious<br />
food. Away from the big<br />
tourist attractions we<br />
choose the streets and<br />
alleys of the locals.<br />
We eat and drink together<br />
from the best entrepreneurs<br />
who serve with passion their<br />
homemade local products.<br />
Find out all there is to know,<br />
the ins and outs about<br />
Antwerps food culture, some<br />
art & history while you enjoy<br />
the best food and a great<br />
beer.<br />
– You will visit the old town<br />
to the new part of Antwerp<br />
and walk the streets as a<br />
local<br />
– You will enjoy remarkable<br />
stories and historical food<br />
facts of Antwerp<br />
– You will enjoy 5 delicious<br />
(seasonable) delicacies<br />
– Foodbars, shops and small<br />
restaurants<br />
– Tuns of tips for the rest of<br />
your stay in Antwerp<br />
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Nellicious <strong>Travel</strong>s<br />
Hungary | The Award for Excellence in Culinary Experiences<br />
Taste the World, Bite by Bite<br />
Hungarian cuisine is largely unknown on the <strong>Europe</strong>an and Global stage.<br />
Often times, the cuisine of more glamourous <strong>Europe</strong>an neighbours such<br />
as Italy, Spain, and France get all the plaudits. However, Hungarian food is<br />
every bit as fascinating, and wonderful. The best way to experience the<br />
cuisine, and by extension the culture, of Hungary is via a food tour.<br />
When in Budapest there is no better option than Nellicious <strong>Travel</strong>s!<br />
Founded by friendly foodie, Nelli Hajba, Nellicious <strong>Travel</strong>s is<br />
the one-stop-shop for the ultimate Hungarian culinary<br />
experience. Led by Nelli and a handful of local hosts, the<br />
walking tours come from a place of passion, knowledge,<br />
and love, ensuring guests receive an informative,<br />
joyful, authentic, and interactive experience as part<br />
of a small intimate group.<br />
On offer a 3 distinct Tours, a Budapest Food<br />
Tour, a Budapest Desserts Tour, and a Wine<br />
Tasting Tour.<br />
Tasty Budapest Food Tour<br />
A mouth-watering culinary<br />
journey that will take you off<br />
the beaten path to some of<br />
Budapest most authentic food<br />
spots. Expect typical Hungarian<br />
delicacies, local markets, quaint<br />
pubs, and traditional restaurants.<br />
Budapest Desserts Tour<br />
Perfect if you’ve got a sweet<br />
tooth, indulge in Hungary’s<br />
famous chimney cake, marzipan,<br />
and handmade Praline, all while<br />
traversing the city.<br />
Wine Tasting Tour<br />
Hungary is one of the biggest<br />
wine producers in <strong>Europe</strong>, and<br />
Tel +36 30 995 6333<br />
a tasting experience in the<br />
capital is marvellous. With over<br />
a selection made up from over<br />
400 different small-to-medium<br />
sized wineries you’ll be sure to<br />
find something to suit your taste<br />
buds.<br />
Online Experience<br />
If you can’t travel to Hungary for<br />
some reason, you can still travel<br />
it by preparing mouthwatering<br />
Hungarian dishes from your<br />
home through their online<br />
cooking experiences. It’ll take<br />
your tastebuds on a journey<br />
through the world of Hungarian<br />
cuisine.<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
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Sharing a bottle of wine with someone you love or lifting a foamy pint with friends are just two of life’s great<br />
pleasures. It’s no surprise that <strong>Europe</strong> has been home to some of the best tipples for thousands of years,<br />
so why not discover where they come from?<br />
Drinking with the locals tells you a lot about a culture and how they like to let their hair down. So, raise<br />
a glass or two and enjoy the flavours of some of the most exciting grapes, hops, and malt across the<br />
continent.<br />
RAISE<br />
YOUR GLASS<br />
Southern French Wine<br />
Synonymous with wine production but sometimes forgotten amongst the brash<br />
new world offerings of South America and Australia, French wine is undergoing<br />
a revival in popularity. And there’s good reason, too.<br />
If you’re on the hunt for classic flavours or organic wines, look no further<br />
than the Languedoc-Rousillion, France’s biggest wine-producing region.<br />
Expect to find merlot, Syrah, and cabernet sauvignon grapes growing<br />
in the Mediterranean climate. Then check out the varied landscapes of<br />
Provence and the wide range of rosé wines produced there. In colours<br />
from the lightest blush of pink to almost dark red, they’re a delight.<br />
Wine isn’t the only thing that draws visitors to this glorious corner of the<br />
country, though. The simple but flavoursome cuisine, the glamour of the<br />
Cote d’Azur, as well as the ancient Greek and Roman architecture combine<br />
to make this a place worth visiting again and again.<br />
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Greek Wine<br />
Name the top <strong>Europe</strong>an wine-producing<br />
countries and you might go through a few<br />
before you get to Greece. This ancient country<br />
has been in the vinification business for<br />
not hundreds but thousands of years and is<br />
enjoying a renaissance of its own thanks to<br />
the incredible wines being made there.<br />
The unique culinary traditions and special<br />
wines of the Greek mainland are an ideal<br />
place to tour, from the rugged Xinomavro<br />
grape-producing north to the biggest<br />
wine-producing region of the Peloponnese<br />
peninsula. We recommend trying out wines<br />
made from the fabulous Kidonitsa grape that<br />
was once nearly extinct.<br />
Onwards to the islands, the crisp whites of the<br />
Santorini archipelago in particular are enjoying<br />
a new wave of popularity. Expect the famous<br />
Greek welcome wherever you visit, order up<br />
a traditional meze, and indulge in a glass or<br />
two of Crete’s bone dry assyrtiko to wash it all<br />
down, for example. Stin iyia mas!<br />
Craft Beer in Germany<br />
You’re probably already familiar with the giant<br />
steins of beer served at Munich’s Oktoberfest<br />
and the pale weißbiers with their floral notes.<br />
However, you might not know that Germany is<br />
undergoing a craft beer revolution.<br />
Fiercely independent and still following the<br />
traditional artisanal techniques learned from<br />
their ancestors, this new wave of exciting<br />
breweries is worth travelling for. Taking<br />
inspiration from the craft beer explosion in the<br />
USA, you can find small batches of beer to suit<br />
all tastes.<br />
If you want to sample experimental beers<br />
like smoky Rauchbier or a sour IPA, then<br />
Hopperbräu in Hamburg is the place to go. On<br />
a self-proclaimed mission “to save German<br />
beer”, they’re putting their own twist on<br />
German classics as well as making exciting<br />
new products all the time.<br />
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Greek Grape Wine Tours<br />
Greece | Unique Tour Company<br />
Be prepared for the most memorable wine and food experience in Greece with Greek<br />
Grape Wine Tours! Whether you are visiting Greece for the first or umpteenth<br />
time, it would be a shame to not to explore its diverse and beautiful wine country.<br />
Taste through the rugged villages of Northern Greece where the lush<br />
Xinomavro grape thrives, down to the beautiful Peloponnese appellations of<br />
Nemea and Mantinia, and finally to the stunning, wine-producing islands<br />
of Crete and Santorini where the beauty of the wines are only rivaled by<br />
the stunning landscapes of these Cycladic islands.<br />
Over 11 days, your own private certified wine expert will guide your<br />
small group (no more than 10 people per trip) through each region<br />
as you experience a Greece rarely seen. You will get to know<br />
the winemaker’s histories and unique winemaking stories,<br />
become experts in the indigenous varietals of Greece and<br />
sample wines not available anywhere else in the world!<br />
Throughout the trip, you will enjoy these unique wines<br />
paired with the different gastronomical delights that<br />
capture the essence of each region.<br />
In addition to wining and dining, you will also visit<br />
some of the important archaeological sites of Greece,<br />
including the Acropolis and its must-see museum,<br />
Ancient Nemea, the Royal Tombs in Vergina and<br />
Knossos in Crete. They also ensure that you have time<br />
on your own to explore and savor each destination. This<br />
is an incredible experience for any wine lover, foodie, or<br />
history buff.<br />
The “Greek Grape Tour” covers all these wine regions<br />
and is currently held twice a year in Spring and Fall. They<br />
can also customize tours focused on just the North of<br />
Greece or the Islands.<br />
Whichever tour you may choose, you can count on<br />
Greek Grape Wine Tours to give you the best Greek wine<br />
experience possible. For any wine connoisseur, this is a<br />
trip you simply cannot miss!<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
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Nice Food and<br />
Wine Tours<br />
France | Tour Company<br />
Nice is one of the food capitals of <strong>Europe</strong>. A beautiful coastal city<br />
nestled on the stunning French Riviera, Niçoise cuisine is<br />
foodie’s dream. But if you’re unsure where to start or how to map<br />
out a food centred day then worry not as we have the solution,<br />
Nice Food and Wine Tours.<br />
Operated by Nadia Farmer, Nice Food and Wine Tours is<br />
perfect for anyone looking for a fun, educational, and,<br />
most importantly, a tasty experience. Highlights<br />
include the opportunity to try an array of local<br />
specialties, enjoy fine wines, learn about<br />
traditional dishes, sample artisanal desserts,<br />
enjoy a meal at a 150-year-old restaurant,<br />
and see a wide variety of attractions.<br />
The tours are set up to cater for small groups,<br />
mainly to offer a more personable and dedicated<br />
experience. Led by Nadia, an experienced<br />
traveler, the tours present an excellent learning<br />
opportunity and a totally immersive experience.<br />
On average, the daily tour last about four hours<br />
typically starting around 9.45am and ending at<br />
2.15pm. Set at an easy walking pace, guests can<br />
expect a total of 22 tastings, and a sitdown meal<br />
to finish up.<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
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Starting Point - Neuf Lignes Oblique,<br />
105 Quai des États-Unis, Nice<br />
Tel +33 762091150<br />
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Chauffeur Your<br />
Way Around<br />
thawards.com<br />
<strong>Europe</strong> mountains<br />
88 89
Take the hassle out of getting where you need to go with a safe and reliable transfer service. For a<br />
completely stress-free experience, we wouldn’t rely on public transport – especially if it’s your first time<br />
using it or the first cab driver you meet outside the airport.<br />
Booking a Transfer<br />
One of our favourite ways to make the start of a holiday special is to book a<br />
transfer from the airport to the hotel. If you want to be met by a professional<br />
driver and travel in comfort, or even style, it pays to do some research first.<br />
TRANSFER<br />
TIPS<br />
What to Look Out for<br />
For some faraway airports, there’s no way you can get to your resort or<br />
villa outside of business hours. Even if there’s 24-hour public transport,<br />
you could be looking at hours of travelling before you even get to your<br />
hotel.<br />
Always check your arrival time, but the best transfer companies will keep<br />
an eye out for your flight number and will know in advance if your plane<br />
is delayed.<br />
If you’re travelling with small children, make sure that your transfer vehicle is<br />
equipped with the correct child seats. It’s illegal in most countries to travel in a<br />
booked taxi with unrestrained children and you don’t want to be left by the side of<br />
the road if you don’t think ahead.<br />
Special arrangements can be made for travellers with disabilities who may need<br />
support or wheelchair-adapted vehicles.<br />
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The Best Transfer<br />
There are some brilliant transfer comparison sites out<br />
there that can link you up with private drivers as well as<br />
big companies at your destination. Hoppa.com and Holiday<br />
Taxis are two of the best.<br />
Although the bigger resorts usually offer a shuttle<br />
transfer service, it’s run on their own schedule, and<br />
you’ll be sharing with crowds of other holidaymakers.<br />
They’ll generally pick up guests from two or even three<br />
different flights, so you might have to wait a long time.<br />
This is, however, usually the most affordable option.<br />
Booking your own private transfer is ideal if you want<br />
a quiet, discrete, and relaxing start or end of your trip.<br />
You’ll be met at the gate by a company representative<br />
or the driver themselves with a sign. They’ll help with<br />
your bags, load them into their waiting car or minibus,<br />
and whisk you off to your destination.<br />
If you want to really make an entrance, you could always<br />
opt for a luxury private transfer service. Turning up to your<br />
hotel in a blacked-out limousine or executive saloon is just<br />
the thing to start your indulgent break abroad.<br />
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Bergen Transfer Service<br />
Norway | Transfer Company<br />
Norway’s second city, Bergen, is its cultural centre. This port city is a<br />
popular cruise stop and famed for its architecture, music heritage, and<br />
surrounding natural scenery. Despite only housing 286.000 inhabitants,<br />
Bergen is a sprawling city, fragmented by mountains, lakes, and Fjords.<br />
This makes getting around the city and its surrounding areas a bit of a<br />
test. The answer to this test? Bergen Transfer Service.<br />
With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Bergen<br />
Transfer Service is the premier transport company in Bergen.<br />
At the centre of it all is a steadfast dedication to providing<br />
a superior-quality service and attention to detail. Having<br />
run thousands of transfers every year operational and<br />
logistical excellence at Bergen Transfer Service is<br />
second to none. Whether it be monitoring flights<br />
at the airport, updating software, adapting<br />
itineraries, or designing a private tour, the<br />
team at Bergen Transfer Service is well<br />
trained and ready to help.<br />
Direct transfers between the ports (seaport<br />
or airport) and the city centre, from 1 to 16<br />
passengers, is the bread-and-butter of what<br />
Bergen Transfer Service do. However, past this<br />
a whole host of wonderful tours are available.<br />
The full day Hardanger day trip is the perfect<br />
opportunity to see the nearby natural beauty<br />
of Bergen, you can expect to visit a waterfall,<br />
Hardanger Fjord, shop at a local store and visit<br />
the quaint village of Voss. Other popular tours<br />
include a Bergen sightseeing tour and trips to the<br />
waterside village of Gudvangen and Flaam.<br />
The entire Bergen Transfer Service fleet is<br />
constantly monitored to ensure that not only the<br />
best vehicles for the job are used but also that<br />
they’re environmentally friendly.<br />
A constant renwal of the fleet ensures Bergen<br />
Transfer Service do operate the newest car fleet<br />
in the region, all high standard vehicles such as<br />
NIO ES8 luxury SUV, Mercedes EQV and Mercedes<br />
Sprinter VIP.<br />
Juvikflaten 29<br />
5308 Kleppestø<br />
Bergen, Norway<br />
www.btservice.no<br />
post@btservice.no<br />
Tel +47 926 60 360<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
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Week Break Tours<br />
Portugal | Chauffer Service<br />
Next time you visit Portugal, ensure you make the most of your time there by getting<br />
in touch with Week Break Tours. The company offers an excellent choice of<br />
tours and experiences and all the guides and drivers have extensive knowledge of<br />
the country and its culture so it would be hard not to find something that takes<br />
your fancy. Based in Lisbon, Week Break Tours offer daytrips and multi-day tours<br />
as well as other exciting activities, always conducted in small and private<br />
groups for an intimate experience.<br />
Whatever your time available is, Week Break Tours will always find a way<br />
to accommodate you so you enjoy the most of your trip. Pick one of<br />
the numerous day or multiday tour itineraries, visiting Lisbon and<br />
it’s surroundings, like Sintra or Azeitão or the lesser crowded<br />
areas of Évora, Fátima, Tomar or Nazaré for example. You<br />
can visit the local wineries at Évora and taste some of<br />
their magnificient wines, while dwelling into the region’s<br />
beautiful landscapes and 2000 year old monuments,<br />
visit the magnificent Sanctuary of Fátima, choose<br />
to explore Tomar and the secrets of the Templar<br />
Knights or when the season is favourable, visit<br />
the record braking giant waves at Nazaré. The<br />
company also offers popular multi-day trips<br />
where you can combine visits to some<br />
of the best attractions in Lisbon and<br />
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the surrounding areas, or just make a longer trip along the<br />
marvelous landscapes of the genuine Portugal like Alentejo<br />
or the Douro Valley, the old medieval villages and castles or<br />
the hundreds of wineries along the country to make the<br />
experience completely unforgettable. And if you’re moving<br />
from town to town in Portugal, Week Break Tours also has a<br />
solution for you, why not take a tour while moving from Lisbon<br />
to Porto or from Lisbon to Algarve for example? With multiple<br />
stops along the route it’s a very nice way of making the most<br />
of your time while enjoying the country. And even if you’re<br />
not sure what are the best places to see or visit, Week Break<br />
Tours will provide a customized program especially for you<br />
dedicated to your preferences.<br />
But even if you’ve only got a few hours to spare, why not take<br />
one of the more simple and short tours around the city and<br />
enjoy modern Lisbon in all its glory?<br />
Whatever your choice is, Week Break’s Chauffeurs and Tour<br />
Guides are passionate about the culture and history of<br />
Portugal and will go to great lengths to ensure your utmost<br />
comfort.<br />
Tel +351 914 501 031<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
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Iceland<br />
thawards.com<br />
Vestrahorn Mountain, Iceland<br />
98 99
Visiting the Land of Fire and Ice is an adventurer’s dream.<br />
EXPERIENCE<br />
ICELAND<br />
How to Relax<br />
One of the benefits of visiting a volcanic island is the<br />
abundance of hot springs and geothermal pools. If you’re<br />
feeling the cold, take a dip in soothing waters that are at<br />
constant hot tub temperatures all year round. Our favourite<br />
is the Secret Lagoon in Fludir.<br />
Another natural attraction to Iceland is the vast expanse of<br />
still and quiet lands. Ideal for anyone looking to get away from<br />
it all, you can hike, ride, or drive into stunning landscapes<br />
that are around almost every bend. We think the peace and<br />
tranquillity of the otherworldly Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is<br />
impossible to match.<br />
What to Experience<br />
The natural wonder known as the Aurora Borealis is one of<br />
our favourite things to hunt for in Iceland. Take a trip into<br />
the wilderness in search of the magical green glow of the<br />
northern lights. Guided tours are plentiful, but you can<br />
always head out on your own to experience something you’ll<br />
remember for a lifetime.<br />
What to Eat<br />
If you’re spending any time in Iceland at all, you’ll love the fish.<br />
Icelanders love their hot smoked salmon and you’ll even find<br />
it for breakfast. Expect to find all sorts of trout, cod, and even<br />
chard dishes on the menu. If you like yoghurt, you should try<br />
skyr – it’s made from cows’ milk and tastes great with berries.<br />
What to Drink<br />
One of our favourite things about Iceland is the extraordinarily<br />
pure glacier water found everywhere. For something a little<br />
stronger, the best Icelandic beer is made by Einstök. If you<br />
really want a taste of Iceland, brennivín is the national spirit.<br />
Flavoured with carraway seed and nicknamed “black death”,<br />
it’s worth a try if you’re feeling particularly brave.<br />
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Your Friend in Reykjavik<br />
Iceland | Learning Experience<br />
Unforgettable Reykjavik Day Tours!<br />
The best trips in life are those you take with your friends, the learning,<br />
the discovery, and the experience as a whole is unparalleled. For whatever<br />
reason however, these trips aren’t always possibly, luckily for Iceland we<br />
have the perfect replacement, the excellent team at Your Friend in<br />
Reykjavik.<br />
The cosmopolitan capital of Iceland is an exciting city with<br />
loads to offer, and with Your Friend in Reykjavik you have the<br />
perfect hosts to show you around. Established by proud<br />
Icelander Valur Sævarsson, Your Friend in Reykjavik is<br />
centred around showing visitors the best sites in a<br />
friendly environment through interesting stories<br />
and immersive experiences. All tour guides are<br />
experts and passionate locals, who know the<br />
city, its people, and the best spots.<br />
There are a dozen tours to choose from that cover a wide<br />
variety of areas, experiences, and interests. The Walk With A<br />
Viking Tour in Reykjavik is the perfect introduction to the city,<br />
and if you’re lucky enough to visit in Christmas then there is<br />
unique of version of this tour available. If you’re foodie, then<br />
look no further than the Food Lovers Tour or the delightful Taste<br />
of Nature in West Iceland Tour. Maybe you’re more of a drinker<br />
in which case we recommend the Beer & Booze Tour. Lovers of<br />
fantasy, and the supernatural will no doubt revel in Reykjavik<br />
Folk Tour or even the Reykjavik Cat-Walk.<br />
Or let’s say you want to get out of the city then we suggest<br />
Magical Snaefellsnes Peninsula Tour (includes lunch), a<br />
nighttime Northern Lights Hunt, a Whale Watching Tour, and<br />
even Bespoke Driving Experience around the barren plains.<br />
Tours are available in private should this be your preference,<br />
allowing for a degree of flexibility and adaptability. Great if you<br />
want to combine specific elements and tours, or if you’re short<br />
on time. Indeed, the team at You Friend in Reykjavik implore<br />
you to get in touch, ask questions, and pick their brains design<br />
your own customised tour.<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
Ingólfstorg 101<br />
Reykjavík, Iceland<br />
Tel +354 655 4040<br />
102<br />
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Ireland<br />
thawards.com<br />
Anne Street, Dublin, Ireland 000<br />
104 105
Get a load of the great music, good times, and thriving culture in Ireland’s capital city. Dublin is a thriving<br />
city that houses almost half of Ireland’s population and, combined with its exciting culture, vibrant locals,<br />
and long history, it’s fair to say this city is a <strong>Europe</strong>an gem.<br />
DUBLIN |<br />
IRELAND’S<br />
PLAYFUL<br />
CAPITAL<br />
Getting In & Around<br />
Dublin Airport is the only one the serves the city but it’s well<br />
connecting across the globe via several low-cost carriers<br />
and bigger airlines. The quickest and cheapest way to get<br />
there is by air. Although, if you’re coming in from the UK, you<br />
may want to consider a ferry – especially if you want your<br />
own car while you’re there. Dublin Port welcomes arrivals<br />
from Holyhead and Pembroke in Wales, Liverpool in England,<br />
Douglas in the Isle of Man, and even a ferry from Normandy.<br />
When you’re there, get yourself a Leap Card. Use it on the<br />
train, bus, tram, or even rent a bike with it. Driving can be<br />
tricky, with a lot of rigidly enforced rules and parking that<br />
isn’t ideal. If you’re dead set on travelling by car, then maybe<br />
consider a taxi or personal driver.<br />
Things to See & Do<br />
Make sure to visit the busy Temple Bar area to sample Dublin’s<br />
most famous export – Guinness. It’s available in any one of<br />
the city’s 772 pubs, or you could even see how it’s made at<br />
the Guinness Storehouse Experience at St James’ Gate.<br />
Just around the corner are some of the city’s most famous<br />
sights. Visit St Patrick’s Cathedral and Dublin Castle for a<br />
taste of history, then get your fill of culture at The National<br />
Gallery of Ireland, home to one of the greatest art collections<br />
in <strong>Europe</strong>.<br />
Dining<br />
If you want a true flavour of Ireland, we recommend a visit to<br />
L. Mulligan Grocer. It’s a traditional Irish pub serving the best<br />
of Irish seafood and heart-warming fare with a contemporary<br />
twist.<br />
Accommodation<br />
One of our favourite hotels in Dublin is The Mayson. Bursting<br />
out from a Victorian Warehouse, it’s got to be seen to be<br />
believed.<br />
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Unearthed Tours<br />
Ireland | The Award for Excellence in Service<br />
Thousands of years of history, unrivalled good times, and live music on what<br />
feels like every street corner. The fascinating and culturally rich capital<br />
of Ireland is one of our favourite places to visit but getting a real feel for a<br />
place takes local knowledge.<br />
Exploring on your own is one thing but walking the streets of Dublin<br />
with a native guide will open it up to you in the most magical way.<br />
Look out for the purple umbrellas of Unearthed Tours, the experts<br />
who’ll guide you through the streets of this fair city. If you can<br />
find a place on the immensely popular Free Tour of Dublin, get<br />
ready for a full dose of culture, history, and legend.<br />
You’ll get a glimpse into the almost 12,000 years of<br />
history that makes up Dublin’s past as well as where<br />
it’s going. Take in the magnificent Trinity College,<br />
stroll along the river Liffey, and finish up at Dublin<br />
Castle on this two and half-hour taster tour<br />
with an expert native guide.<br />
Feeling brave? Then we think the best, and rather<br />
unique, way to spend a few hours is on the Dark Dublin<br />
Tour. Discover a deadly history of the city through the<br />
deeds of cannibals, killers, witches, and other dangerous<br />
inhabitants. The knowledge and good humour of<br />
Unearthed Tours guides keeps things light enough, but<br />
it’s not suitable for young children. Book it if you dare.<br />
For those who want a more personally tailored experience,<br />
Unearthed Tours offer private tours of Dublin and Howth.<br />
You can choose the schedule, the subject, and even the<br />
route! If you want to get the real feel of Ireland’s most<br />
thrilling city, why choose anyone else?<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
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Laid out along the rugged Atlantic coastline, County Kerry is the jewel of south-west Ireland. Filled with<br />
wild and ancient beauty, we think it’s well worth a visit.<br />
COUNTY<br />
KERRY TOP 5<br />
Take in the Sights on a Coastal Adventure<br />
Winding its way through the county, the Ring of Kerry is a must<br />
when visiting the area. This circular route passes through<br />
some of the most beautiful landscapes that the Emerald Isle<br />
has to offer. Visit tiny villages and golden sand beaches all at<br />
your own pace.<br />
Get Back to Nature<br />
If you want to get away from it all, then Killarney National Park<br />
has something for everyone. Visit the 15 th Century Ross Castle<br />
and take a horse-drawn carriage ride or walk one of the many<br />
trails that criss-cross the beautiful grounds. Alternatively,<br />
hop aboard M.V Pride of The Lakes for a stunning tour of<br />
Loch Leane.<br />
Try a Proper Pint of the Black Stuff<br />
A trip to Ireland wouldn’t be complete without a taste of the<br />
most popular stout in the world. Drop into the award-winning<br />
Dick Mack’s in the picturesque fishing village of Dingle for a<br />
real drop of Guinness. Choose from more than 200 whiskeys<br />
or sample one of their famous craft beers. Go for the great<br />
atmosphere of a pub that has been in the same family since<br />
1899. Sláinte!<br />
Experience the Impossible<br />
Towering above the raging Atlantic Sea at 230 m, the jagged<br />
outcrop of Skellig Michael has filled the imaginations of writers<br />
and visitors alike with visions of the past. The 8 th Century<br />
abandoned monastery on this craggy island is full of mystery.<br />
Take a boat tour to see the 600 steps that monks carved out of<br />
the rock and the wildlife that inhabits it now.<br />
Pamper Yourself<br />
After all this exploring, walking, and famous Irish hospitality,<br />
you might want to take advantage of a relaxing spa day. The<br />
Ballygarry Estate Hotel and Spa offers world-class treatments<br />
and luxury rooms set in 180 acres of land at the foot of the<br />
Kerry mountains. You deserve it.<br />
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Kerry Experience Tours<br />
Ireland | Tour Company<br />
Ireland is a beautiful, bold, and enchanting. Beyond its famed capital, Dublin, there is in fact so<br />
much to see, do, learn, and experience that many travellers won’t know where to start. We<br />
know where to start and it’s with Kerry Experience Tours.<br />
Founded and run by dynamic duo Gerrit & Ester, Kerry Experience Tours have been<br />
operating since 2007. Armed with a wealth of experience, extensive knowledge, and a<br />
deep love for the Emerald Isle, it’s fair to say with Kerry Experience Tours you’re in safe<br />
hand. The tours can be broken down into two distinct types these are Private Day<br />
Tours, and Bespoke Private Tours of Ireland – Multiday.<br />
Private Day Tours<br />
The Kerry Experience Private Day Tours are convenient, unique, and<br />
flexible. The advantage of having an exclusive chauffer driven journey<br />
is you can get a fulfilling experience at your own pace whether it be in<br />
a as an individual, couple, or group. Simply sit back, relax, and enjoy<br />
the incredible scenery, intriguing history, and fascinating culture.<br />
The tours are well thought out and cover a variety of areas<br />
although most follow the famed Wild Atlantic Way, a<br />
spectacular coastal route, one that you won’t forget<br />
anytime soon.<br />
Recommended Private Day Tours:<br />
Undiscovered Ring of Kerry Tour, Dingle Tour,<br />
Beara Tour, Mizen Head Tour<br />
Bespoke Private Tours of Ireland – Multiday<br />
A Bespoke Tour of Ireland is perfect for individuals, couples,<br />
families, friends, and small groups who are looking to enjoy<br />
Ireland at an exceptional level. Whether you wish to explore<br />
the highlights of Ireland, travel off the beaten path, enjoy a<br />
golf tour, organise a family gathering, or find the home of your<br />
ancestors, with Kerry Experience Tours you can plan the perfect<br />
trip designed around your travel dates and interests.<br />
Whatever you wish to do, see, or enjoy in Ireland can be yours.<br />
You choose your own accommodation and travel at your own<br />
pace. Let Kerry Experience Tours know what your dream trip to<br />
Ireland looks like and get a quote for a customized private tour<br />
of Ireland.<br />
Join Kerry Experience Tours and find the Ireland you’ve always<br />
imagined.<br />
Derreenavurrig, Sneem<br />
Co. Kerry, Ireland<br />
Tel +00353 (0)86 255 4098<br />
Tel +00353 (0)86 407 4679<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
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United Kingdom<br />
thawards.com<br />
Cambridge City Canal,<br />
England<br />
114 115
Most visitors to London will head to Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, or even go on a very<br />
generic open top bus tour. It makes sense for a first-time visitor but if it’s your second or third time<br />
visiting, we suggest you get off the beaten track and do something different in this historic city.<br />
UNIQUE<br />
LONDON<br />
Get On the Water<br />
Experience a part of London that’s often overlooked: the view<br />
from the river Thames itself. We think the great river that flows<br />
across the capital is one of the best ways to get to know the<br />
sights, all from a different angle.<br />
The London Kayak Company offer night-time paddles through<br />
the heart of the city. Starting in Battersea and ending in<br />
Greenwich, hop aboard with an experienced instructor and<br />
take a two-person kayak downstream for an unforgettable<br />
ride.<br />
A Chocolate Making Masterclass<br />
Calling all chocoholics! Satisfy your cravings for the sweet<br />
stuff with a bespoke chocolate workshop. Ideal for couples<br />
or even a hen party, you can learn all about the art of<br />
making chocolate. You can turn a few simple but luxurious<br />
ingredients into the world’s favourite snack with guidance<br />
from a knowledgeable chocolatier.<br />
Whether you want to become a serious pâtissier or simply<br />
spend a few fun hours with your friends, we think a chocolatemaking<br />
experience is a great way to spend time in London.<br />
Lose Yourself in a Zen Garden<br />
Found tucked away in a corner of swanky Kensington’s<br />
Holland Park, there’s an oasis of calm in the middle of this<br />
busy city. If you want to really get away from it all and spend a<br />
quiet afternoon with yourself, you should visit Kyoto Garden.<br />
Carefully designed to feel like an authentic Japanese Zen<br />
Garden, you can spot exotic peacocks strutting around, lazy<br />
koi carp swimming in the cool pond, and a gentle waterfall<br />
bubbling between native Japanese plants and trees. We<br />
can’t think of a better way to lose yourself in Central London.<br />
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MyChocolate<br />
UK | Culinary Experience<br />
A<br />
Chocoholic’s Dream!<br />
The UK offers much in the way of culinary excitement – the capital,<br />
London, is a melting pot of the world and unmissable food experiences<br />
can be found all over. For us, the art of chocolate making stands out a<br />
one such experience that you simply must do when here. And who<br />
better to guide you on this wonderful experience than the good<br />
folks at MyChocolate?<br />
Founded by Hannah Saxton, MyChocolate has grown to<br />
become one of the premier culinary experiences in the<br />
UK, with workshops available in London, Manchester,<br />
and Brighton. On offer are a wide range of chocolatecentred<br />
workshops, team building sessions,<br />
parties, and even virtual events.<br />
The chocolate workshops present the most<br />
feasible option, especially if you’re limited<br />
on time during your trip. There are six<br />
unique workshops on offer lasting<br />
between 1.5 and 2.5 hours.<br />
The original chocolate workshop is extremely popular<br />
and the ideal introduction to chocolate making. You can<br />
expect to do some tasting, watch demonstrations, learn<br />
to decorate, make a chocolate slab, dip the chocolate,<br />
and enjoy fresh truffles. If you’re a fan of fine chocolate,<br />
then why not try the luxury chocolate-making workshop?<br />
Building on the original workshops, this offering adds the<br />
opportunity to indulge in prosecco and make chocolate<br />
martinis.<br />
The chocolate street challenge is an exciting scavenger<br />
hunt around historic east London: solve clues, scavenge<br />
items, and win awesome chocolate prizes. It’s a great<br />
way to see the city and a unique alternative to making<br />
chocolate indoors.<br />
Cocktails and chocolate making is a thrilling blend of<br />
mixology and chocolate alchemy. Why not go with the<br />
Choc-tails workshop to try your hand at chocolate martini<br />
and truffle making?<br />
Finally, if you’re part of a family group, then the Fabulous<br />
Family School Holiday Special is the workshop for you.<br />
Have fun making chocolate slabs and truffles.<br />
Tel +0207 2695760<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
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Famous for its world-leading university and reputation for intellectual excellence, Cambridge has more<br />
to offer than you might think. A vibrant food scene and some of the best independent shopping awaits.<br />
CAMBRIDGE |<br />
TAKE A PUNT<br />
ON THIS<br />
CULTURAL<br />
HUB<br />
Getting In & Around<br />
The famous university city of Cambridge is just 49 miles away<br />
from London. Served by regular train and bus services, getting<br />
there is easy and doable as a daytrip. Known as Britain’s most<br />
cycle-friendly city, ditch the car and hire a bike while you’re<br />
there. The city is fairly compact and flat, meaning you can<br />
almost certainly see all the sights using pedal power alone.<br />
Things to Do & See<br />
With more than 1,000 years of history, there’s something<br />
new (or old) to see around every cobbled street corner in<br />
Cambridge. Walk in the footsteps of some of Great Britain’s<br />
finest minds that studied at the university, go for a punt<br />
on the river Cam, or discover some of the city’s fascinating<br />
museums. Don’t forget to visit one of 280 independent shops<br />
while you’re there.<br />
Dining<br />
With cosy pubs warmed by roaring fires in the winter and<br />
contemporary modern eateries catering for all the family,<br />
you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to restaurants in<br />
Cambridge. If you want to treat yourself to a night of fine<br />
dining, we recommend booking a table at the exclusive<br />
Midsummer House. Tasting menus are highly sought after<br />
and feature the best of modern British cuisine.<br />
Accommodation<br />
The city of Cambridge is served by hotels and B&Bs to fit<br />
every taste and budget, from big name chain hotels that<br />
offer comfort and a familiar setting to classy boutiques that<br />
promise a luxury stay. The Fellows House Curio Collection by<br />
Hilton is one of the highest rated places to stay and would<br />
certainly be our choice. Head over to the next page to see our<br />
in-depth feature.<br />
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The Fellows House Cambridge,<br />
Curio Collection By Hilton<br />
UK | ApartHotel<br />
Located just 20 minutes away from Cambridge City Centre, The Fellows<br />
House is an exquisitely designed, modern aparthotel that comes<br />
complete with everything you could want. Despite only being open<br />
since last July, the property is considered one of the finest in<br />
Cambridge and has quickly developed a reputation for worldclass<br />
customer service. Guests can expect all the privacy and<br />
liberty of an apartment with the service, care, and facilities<br />
you would expect in a high-end hotel.<br />
The Fellows House takes much of its inspiration,<br />
including the name, from the prestigious<br />
University of Cambridge, which the city is<br />
famous for. The elegant interior and unique<br />
décor have an almost studious feel to it<br />
while rooms are named after famous<br />
university fellows, past and present.<br />
All the rooms at The Fellows House, with<br />
the exception of the Kipling King Room,<br />
are apartments and studios. Both come<br />
complete with a modern fully equipped<br />
kitchen, a luxurious private bathroom, and a<br />
whole host of wonderful in-room amenities<br />
such as flat screen TV, work desk, coffee<br />
machine, air conditioning, room service,<br />
and deluxe toiletries. Some of the bigger<br />
apartments also include a separate sitting<br />
area, and dining table.<br />
Services and facilities are pretty much on<br />
par with what you would expect from a<br />
four-star hotel. There’s a state-of-the-art<br />
gym, an indoor pool, a sauna, and steam<br />
room. The on-site restaurant and bar, the<br />
Folio Bar & Kitchen, serves up continental<br />
and buffet breakfast every morning, as well<br />
as lunch, dinner, and snacks throughout<br />
the day.<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
33A Milton Rd,<br />
Cambridge CB4 1UZ<br />
Tel +01223 949499<br />
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Tucked away on the North Yorkshire coast, this seaside town is perfectly placed for exploring miles of<br />
pristine beaches and the wild beauty of the North Yorkshire Moors.<br />
WHITBY |<br />
A HIDDEN<br />
GEM<br />
Why is Whitby a Hidden Gem?<br />
When you think of beach holidays, especially in the UK, you<br />
might be drawn to the surfer’s paradise of Cornwall or the<br />
bright lights of Brighton. However, the unique and eccentric<br />
charms of this old fishing port make Whitby one of the most<br />
interesting places to visit by the sea.<br />
It’s not your typical seaside town, either. The ruin of Whitby<br />
Abbey stands overlooking the town and it lacks many of the<br />
tropes found in most British seaside towns.<br />
Getting In & Around<br />
Whitby Station is at the end of the beautiful North Yorkshire<br />
Moors Railway. It’s an ideal way to see the moors in comfort<br />
and heritage steam trains frequently run on the same line.<br />
Whitby’s compact size and famous narrow streets and<br />
alleyways mean you can explore the whole place on foot.<br />
Plus, if you’re feeling fit, you can climb the 199 steps from the<br />
Old Town up to the Abbey.<br />
The Attractions<br />
Alongside Whitby Harbour on the east bank of the river Esk<br />
are cobbled streets lined with tiny independent shops and<br />
cafes offering everything from cream teas to second-hand<br />
books. You can also visit the Captain Cook Memorial Museum<br />
to learn about the famous explorer’s connection with the<br />
town.<br />
Best Time of the Year to Visit<br />
North Yorkshire isn’t renowned for tropical temperatures and<br />
the mercury doesn’t tend to hit more than 18°C, even in the<br />
summer months. We’d recommend visiting between July and<br />
August for the best weather possible.<br />
Dining<br />
It makes sense that Whitby is home to some of the finest fish<br />
and chips you’ll find anywhere in England. We recommend a<br />
visit to Hadley’s Fish & Chips – they’ve been serving freshlycaught<br />
fare for more than 85 years.<br />
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Riviera Guesthouse<br />
UK | Sea View Guest House<br />
Set in the stunning seaside town of Whitby, the Riviera Guesthouse is a<br />
quintessential British Bed & Breakfast. This award-winning property is<br />
family-run, elegant, welcoming, and ideally located on the beach front.<br />
With 15 uniquely designed rooms on offer, a delicious daily breakfast,<br />
and friendly hosts, it does beg the question, why stay anywhere else<br />
in Whitby?<br />
Given its excellent seafront location it’s no surprise that most<br />
rooms at the property are sea view. All rooms are elegantly<br />
decorated, inviting, and comfortable. Guests can choose<br />
from a single, a standard double, deluxe double, King<br />
Size, twin, and family rooms, all that way up to to an<br />
impressive Superior King room that comes complete<br />
with a four-poster bed and a bay window for<br />
those stunning sea views. All rooms come with<br />
a flat screen TV, access to free Wi-FI, a wellstocked<br />
refreshment tray, tea, coffee, and<br />
large white fluffy towels.<br />
There’s no better start to the day than a filling<br />
breakfast and at Riviera Guesthouse you get just<br />
that. There’s an excellent range available, this<br />
includes cooked options, a delightful breakfast<br />
bar, and unique local delicacies such as the<br />
Whitby Kipper. To top it off breakfast is served in<br />
sea-facing dining rooms fitted with large “floor<br />
to ceiling” bay windows that offer beautiful sea<br />
views while you dine.<br />
At Riviera Guesthouse hosts Emma and Zed are<br />
always ready to go the extra mile so should you<br />
have any needs, concerns, or requests. their local<br />
knowledge and experience of living in Whitby will<br />
no doubt come in handy during your stay.<br />
Riviera Guesthouse<br />
4 Crescent Terrace<br />
West Cliff, WHITBY<br />
North Yorkshire<br />
YO21 3EL<br />
Tel +01947 602533<br />
Mob +07540 945537<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
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The 10 Reasons You Should Visit Wales<br />
The smallest of the countries in Great Britain, Wales, is an evocative place that’s proud of its industrial<br />
heritage and unique culture. Whether you want to climb mountains, surf waves, or explore castles, Wales<br />
has got a lot to offer.<br />
WHY WALES?<br />
1. Gower Peninsula<br />
You’re never far from dramatic scenery in Wales, but the Gower<br />
Peninsula is rightly labelled an Area of Outstanding Natural<br />
Beauty. Just a stone’s throw away from Swansea, you can lose<br />
yourself in verdant green fields and the striking coastline.<br />
2. The Mumbles<br />
Perched on the south-eastern tip of Gower is the exquisite<br />
Mumbles, a headland that’s home to wild and natural beauty<br />
and a thriving little town that we think is well worth a visit.<br />
Check out the Lovespoon Gallery for an interesting slice of<br />
Welsh folk art.<br />
3. Cardiff<br />
Wales’ vibrant capital city is a fantastic place to be. It’s a melting<br />
pot of different cultures and has some of the country’s best<br />
nightlife. There’s Cardiff Castle and the National Museum Wales<br />
to visit, as well as hot Welsh cakes to eat in Cardiff Market. Plus,<br />
if you’re into craft beer, you’ve got to try out the Tiny Rebel<br />
Beer Bar.<br />
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4. Snowdonia National Park<br />
The largest national park in Wales and home of Yr Wyddfa, or<br />
Mount Snowdon, is a thrill-seeker’s playground. Scale the highest<br />
mountain in the British Isles outside of the Scottish Highlands,<br />
or get the train up if you fancy a rest. You can mountain bike, zip<br />
line, and even surf at Adventure Parc Snowdonia.<br />
7. Conwy Castle<br />
You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to castles in Wales. With more than 400 of them<br />
across the country, it takes a special one to make it onto this list. Conwy Castle is a<br />
magnificent fortress that still stands guard over the river Conwy in far North Wales.<br />
With battlements and walls nearly two metres thick, it’s an impressive sight to behold.<br />
6. Tenby<br />
5. Pembrokeshire<br />
Making the journey out to the wild beauty of<br />
Pembrokeshire is well worth the effort. With 243<br />
beaches along its length, you’ll probably find one<br />
all to yourself at any given time. Famed as Wales’<br />
own surfers’ paradise, make sure you take your<br />
wetsuit with you!<br />
For something a little more laid back, visit the cheerful and picturesque harbour<br />
town of Tenby. It’s been a popular holiday spot since the 19th century and is one<br />
of our favourite spots to grab a coffee and do some people-watching. Have a stroll<br />
around the cobbled streets or take a cruise out to Caldey Island to see the working<br />
monastery.<br />
9. Portmeirion Village<br />
8. Hay-on-Wye<br />
For lovers of literature, the best place to see and be seen is a small town that straddles the<br />
Welsh and English border. Famous for its abundance of bookshops, you can leaf your way through<br />
crime books galore at Murder and Mayhem or use it as a base to explore the Black Mountains. Oh,<br />
the Hay Festival is also one of the world’s premier literary events.<br />
You might not expect to find a little slice of Italy in<br />
Gwynedd in north Wales, but close to Porthmadog is<br />
a tourist village that gives you just that. The colourful<br />
buildings and miniature piazzas, complete with elegant<br />
fountains, were the work of Sir Clough Williams-Ellis.<br />
It’s a magical place to visit, with plenty of chances to<br />
recreate scenes from the cult TV show The Prisoner,<br />
which was filmed there.<br />
10. Devil’s Bridge Falls<br />
Spanning the river Mynach<br />
are not one but three<br />
bridges stacked on top<br />
of each other. Just a<br />
few miles inland from<br />
the coastal town of<br />
Aberystwyth, the main<br />
attraction is the impressive<br />
waterfall and the trails that<br />
circle around it.<br />
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Holm House Hotel<br />
United Kingdom | Hotel and Restaurant<br />
Elegance, luxury, and sophistication are the order of the day at the stunning<br />
Holm House Hotel. Located in the upper-class Victorian seaside town<br />
of Penarth in South Wales, Holm House Hotel offers guests a relaxed<br />
experience in a contemporary setting and inviting ambience.<br />
Each room at the property is designed with opulence, space, and<br />
comfort in mind. There are five rooms to choose from, starting<br />
with a standard room and going right the way up to an amazing<br />
balcony suite that offers gorgeous views over the Severn<br />
Estuary. In between are large family rooms, boutique<br />
sea view rooms, and a fashionable mini suite. Guests<br />
can expect HD TV with Sky, deluxe Molton Brown<br />
toiletries, a coffee machine, complimentary bottled<br />
water, hair dryer, bath robe, and free Wi-Fi.<br />
Dining at Holm House is a treat for your taste buds,<br />
with the on-location restaurant serving an ala carte<br />
breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day as well as<br />
afternoon tea. The menu is British and continental<br />
with a special focus on locally-sourced ingredients and<br />
produce. The contemporary cocktail bar and lounge<br />
area offer a perfect spot for after-dinner drinks, a catch<br />
up, or a spot to just relax.<br />
For all your wellness needs, we implore you to visit the<br />
on-site spa. Expect a decadent wellness centre that<br />
offers wonderful, pampered journeys of relaxation and<br />
escape. The expansive spa menu includes a whole range<br />
of massages, wraps, peels, and facials, all bought to you<br />
in partnership with the ELEMIS skincare brand. Should<br />
you be interested in an extended experience or whole<br />
day, there a several treatment packages to choose from.<br />
Ultimately, a trip to Penarth is the opportunity to have<br />
a break, unwind, and enjoy the seaside. At Holm House<br />
Hotel, you have the perfect base to do just that.<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
Holm House Hotel,<br />
Marine Parade,<br />
Penarth, CF64 3BG<br />
Tel +44 02920 706029<br />
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This vibrant and youthful city, offering incredible nightlife and an unforgettable welcome, is found on<br />
Northern Ireland’s east coast. Home to a fascinating industrial and cultural past, Belfast is a city of<br />
captivating wall murals, great humour, and beautiful gardens.<br />
BELFAST |<br />
NORTHERN<br />
IRELAND’S<br />
CULTURAL<br />
CENTRE<br />
Getting In & Around<br />
Two airports serve the city, so you can choose from Belfast<br />
International Airport or George Best Belfast City Airport. If you<br />
don’t fancy flying, you can get there by regular ferry service<br />
from either Liverpool or Cairnryan in Scotland. Because<br />
Belfast is a compact city, you can easily get around on public<br />
transport or even see most of it on foot.<br />
Things To Do & See<br />
Visit the Titanic Quarter, a tribute to the city’s proud industrial<br />
heritage and its most famous export. Take in Titanic Belfast,<br />
the world’s largest museum dedicated to the fateful ship,<br />
or simply enjoy the shops, restaurants, and bars that have<br />
sprung up around this massive redevelopment.<br />
If you want a taste of a more traditional Belfast, we think you<br />
should include at least one visit to a proper Northern Irish<br />
pub. Order yourself a perfectly poured pint of Guinness at<br />
Kelly’s Cellars, a traditional pub with its roots dating back to<br />
the 1720s.<br />
Dining<br />
Belfast has a growing foodie scene that’s busy putting a<br />
contemporary twist on traditional Irish fare. As a city that’s<br />
defined by its proximity to the Irish sea, expect to find<br />
excellent seafood alongside sumptuous local beef. Famous<br />
restaurants in the city include James St. bar & grill and The<br />
Muddlers Club.<br />
Accommodation<br />
If you prefer accommodation that’s completely different<br />
and celebrates Belfast’s maritime history, we recommend<br />
checking out Barge at Titanic. You can stay on the water in<br />
a luxury converted barge that’s just a ten-minute walk from<br />
the city centre and everything it has to offer.<br />
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MicksTours.com<br />
Northern Ireland | Tour Company<br />
Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, is perhaps the most fascinating<br />
city in the United Kingdom. Despite its troubled past the city is on the<br />
up with a bright future ahead especially in tourism, and when it comes to<br />
touristic activities there’s no one better placed to show you around than<br />
MicksTours.<br />
Owned and operated by local tour operator Michael Smith,<br />
MicksTours is your guide to Belfast, and Northern Ireland as a<br />
whole. With over 25 years of experience Michael Smith and<br />
his team are ready to show you around.<br />
MicksTours offers up a range of tours that cover key<br />
areas and trip types while also keeping an open mind<br />
to customised and tailor-made options. Popular trips<br />
include a fun City Tour, an exciting Game of Thrones<br />
Tour, a trip to the magnificent Giants Causeway,<br />
rewarding Hiking Trips, and Executive Transfers.<br />
Belfast’s status as the UKs best port of call for cruise<br />
ships means high-quality shore excursion providers are<br />
crucial. With limited time, most cruise goers are looking<br />
for value and this is exactly where MicksTours comes<br />
into its own. Putting years of experience and extensive<br />
knowledge into practice, MicksTours are currently the<br />
only tour operator able to present a stunning “Titanic<br />
Package” that covers five unmissable sites in one day. In<br />
one mammoth 10-hour trip guest can expect to see the<br />
vibrant Titanic Quarter, the Giants Causeway (including<br />
rope bridge), the scenic Glens of Antrim, the inspiring<br />
Belfast Murals, and get in a City Sightseeing Tour. Shorter<br />
and more specialised shore excursions are available<br />
but it’s fair to say the Titanic Package won’t be beaten<br />
anytime soon.<br />
Maybe you’re not short on time and have a few days<br />
in Belfast. Then for you, MicksTours has a specialised<br />
tailored staycation package. Whether you’re in town for<br />
two days or ten, MicksTours can take care of everything<br />
from accommodation options to attractions, to transfers,<br />
and even restaurant recommendations.<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
Tel +447552477285<br />
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Portugal<br />
thawards.com<br />
Porto, Portugal<br />
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The vibrant, liberal, and welcoming capital city of Portugal really does have it all. Thousands of years of<br />
history, exciting beaches, and amazing food await visitors hungry for the city’s unique blend of cultures,<br />
both old and new.<br />
LISBON | THE<br />
LAID-BACK<br />
CAPITAL<br />
Getting In & Around<br />
As it’s the capital city of Portugal, flights are plentiful and<br />
usually inexpensive. Humberto Delgado Airport isn’t miles<br />
outside of the city either, meaning you’re less than 10 km<br />
away from the heart of downtown when you arrive.<br />
Once you’ve arrived, we don’t recommend driving unless you<br />
plan on leaving the city. Thanks to Lisbon’s extensive and<br />
budget-friendly public transport network, you can beat the<br />
constant traffic and see the sights on your way.<br />
We can’t recommend the Lisboa Card enough. With prices<br />
starting at a reasonable €21, you get free travel on all<br />
public transport as well as unlimited access to the main<br />
museums, galleries, and attractions in the city. It’s an<br />
invaluable resource and a great way to start your adventure.<br />
Our favourite way to get around the city is by tram. The<br />
routes crisscross almost every district of the city and the<br />
number 28 is like a city tour all on its own. It visits most of the<br />
popular sights and, with the Lisboa Card, you won’t ever be<br />
overcharged.<br />
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Things To Do & See<br />
Lisbon is an ancient city that has seen everyone from<br />
the Romans to the Moors feature in its more than 2,000<br />
years of history. Strategically placed at the mouth of the<br />
river Tagus, it circles an enormous natural harbour that<br />
has provided most of its wealth over the centuries.<br />
One of the most exciting districts of Lisbon is Alfama.<br />
Built on a steep hill, it’s a warren of narrow alleyways,<br />
stone steps, and whitewashed buildings. Once a<br />
haven for cutthroats and world-weary sailors, it’s now<br />
a trendy artisan area that still retains a strong sense of<br />
community.<br />
If you head down to the water’s edge at Belém, you’ll<br />
be met by the impressive bulk of the Torre de Belém,<br />
a 15th century fortress that was built to guard the<br />
city harbour from marauding pirates and other<br />
undesirables. Sit and admire it from the shore or<br />
pay a few Euros to climb the spiral staircase for<br />
an unforgettable view.<br />
And if you want to party, we recommend a visit to<br />
the Bairro Alto neighbourhood. Packed with bars<br />
and places to eat, it’s the place where Lisboans<br />
and visitors alike come to catch up with friends and<br />
let their hair down.<br />
Dining<br />
It won’t take you long to work out that the Portuguese<br />
love their fish. The national favourite dish of grilled<br />
sardines and bacalhau, or salted cod, can be found<br />
almost everywhere. A trip to the Mercado de<br />
Arroios, a huge fresh food market, will show off<br />
the abundance of delicious produce that Lisboans<br />
have at their fingertips.<br />
The national obsession with pastéis de nata, a type<br />
of egg custard tart, and other sweet pastry treats<br />
is another delight not to be missed. We think there’s<br />
nothing better than starting the day with a café com<br />
leite and one of the gooey indulgences from Pastéis de<br />
Belém in the Ajuda district.<br />
Accommodation<br />
Set in an 18 th century Pombaline-style building, the<br />
AlmaLusa Baixa/Chiado hotel is right in the heart<br />
of downtown. Just a few streets away from Lisbon<br />
Cathedral and flanked by two of Lisbon’s best<br />
museums, the Money Museum and the National<br />
Museum of Contemporary Art, it’s perfectly placed<br />
to explore the city. This boutique hotel features<br />
stunning rooms with original features throughout.<br />
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TakingUThere<br />
Portugal | Tailor Made Tour Company<br />
The Capital of Portugal, Lisbon, is one of <strong>Europe</strong>’s most electrifying cities. This<br />
enchanting metropolis is home to a thriving wine & gastronomy scene, rich<br />
history, unique architecture, and vibrant modern culture. To see Lisbon, and to<br />
see it well i.e., off the beaten path is no easy feat, hiring a local company is your<br />
best bet and for this there are very few better than TakingUThere.<br />
Founded by Portuguese native and impassioned Alfacinha, Joao<br />
Dickmann, TakingUThere is a multi-award-winning tour company. At its<br />
core is the desire to show visitors the alternative sites of Lisbon and<br />
its surrounding towns, to focus on lesser seen beautiful attractions,<br />
and create unforgettable memories, away from the touristic<br />
hustle. Joao and his team at TakingUThere all channel a<br />
passion and knowledge for their craft that’s reflected in their<br />
professionalism and approach to guiding.<br />
Tours can be categorised either by region or experience.<br />
Regions covered, along with Lisbon of course,<br />
include Sintra, Cascais, Obidos, Mafra, and Evora.<br />
Experiential tours on the other hand are built<br />
around three distinct interests. These are<br />
Wine & Gastronomy, History & Culture, and<br />
Dolphin & Nature.<br />
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For a unique look at Lisbon’s history, we recommend the<br />
marvellous Lisbon’s Forgotten Historical Palaces Tour. Or<br />
for a more immersive experience you should check out the<br />
Jewish Odyssey Tour. If you’re a foodie, then you mustn’t miss<br />
the Traditional Lisbon Food Tasting Experience. It’s more than<br />
just taste testing food, you’ll learn all about Lisbon’s culinary<br />
history, local customs, and the important role food plays in the<br />
daily lives of Alfacinha (the proper name for Lisboans).<br />
Why not compliment your food tour by going on the Setubal<br />
Wine Tasting Tour? The small neighbouring city of Setubal is<br />
a wine lovers dream and with Takinguthere you can revel in<br />
three of the region’s finest cellars. Enjoy 10 delicious wines in<br />
front of a beautiful mountain backdrop.<br />
If you fancy getting out for the day, then the Obidos and Mafra<br />
tour will more than suffice. You’ll discover the fascinating and<br />
well-preserved Museum village of Obidos and the magnificent<br />
palace of Mafra.<br />
Of-course completely tailored tours are another option. If you<br />
know exactly what you want to see or aren’t sure but have an<br />
idea, then the team at TakingUThere will work closely to design<br />
your perfect tour from when you land to when you leave.<br />
Rua de Campolide, nº27 – 4º esq.<br />
Lisboa 1070-026<br />
Portugal<br />
Tel +351 917 837 597<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
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Lisbon with Pats<br />
Portugal | Innovative Tour Company<br />
Founded in 2017 by long time Lisbon lover and resident, Pats Madeira, Lisbon<br />
with Pats has established itself as one of the finest tour options in the city.<br />
Pats’ fascination of Lisbon’s long history, rich culture, fine food, and local<br />
customs fed into the organic creation of a truly unique tour of Portugal’s<br />
capital city. Combined with Pats passion, energetic style, and positivity<br />
the tours have a way of bringing history to life.<br />
Pats belief of a sharing Lisbon personally means that there<br />
aren’t any set tours. Instead, all tours are personalised based<br />
on customer preferences or needs. Through email or via a<br />
call Pats will design the tour so every step is relatable,<br />
personalised, simple, and stress free. If for example<br />
you prefer to sample the city’s cuisine, then Pats<br />
can show you the best spots, or if you’re history<br />
lover then expect an insightful experience.<br />
Whatever your preference you can expect a<br />
detailed plan suited to your tastes.<br />
Lisbon is a wonderful city, so see it your<br />
way, see it with Pats!<br />
Tel +351 919 260333<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
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Not far from the bustling city of Lisbon, Sintra is known best for its enchanting architecture that looks<br />
like it’s jumped straight from the pages of a fairy tale. For serious gastronauts, it’s also home to some of<br />
the best food in all of Portugal.<br />
SINTRA<br />
GASTRONOMY<br />
What to Drink<br />
When you think of wine from Portugal, port would be the<br />
first export that comes to mind. However, you might not<br />
know that the compact region of Colares is home to some<br />
the oldest wineries in the world. Unique because the vines<br />
are grown in sand, this sumptuous wine is one of Portugal’s<br />
best-kept secrets.<br />
There are wine tours to take around the region, with visits<br />
to the most westerly vineyards in all of <strong>Europe</strong>. Of all the<br />
wineries, we think the Casal Sta Maria, with its fabulous wines<br />
and food on offer, makes it well worth a visit.<br />
Café Culture<br />
Another delightfully unique part of Portuguese culture is<br />
how they drink their coffee. You’re probably more used to the<br />
Italian-style latte, but in one of Sintra’s best cafes you’ll be<br />
asking for a galão, a coffee topped up with warm milk.<br />
What to Eat<br />
Most visitors to Sintra make their way up to the ethereal Pena<br />
Palace and around the sights without realising that there are<br />
some incredible restaurants right around the corner. If you’re<br />
in the mood for one of Portugal’s traditional delicacies, we<br />
recommend visiting Incomum for their take on octopus with<br />
spinach and sweet potato.<br />
For more delights from the sea, visiting Romaria de Baco for<br />
the best cod in the region is also a great idea. A restaurant<br />
that’s as popular with the locals as it is with visitors, you can<br />
tuck into a petiscos tasting menu to get a real flavour of the<br />
region.<br />
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If your idea of heaven is wandering around ancient castles and palaces, the UNESCO World Heritage<br />
town of Sintra is the place for you. Situated just outside Lisbon, make sure to add it to your itinerary.<br />
UNMISSABLE<br />
SITES<br />
IN SINTRA<br />
The Pena Palace<br />
What most people travel to Sintra to see, this magical<br />
Romanticist palace was built by Prince Ferdinand to be used<br />
by the royal family. The colourful walls set this palace apart<br />
from any other castle you may have visited before.<br />
Built lovingly in a spectacular range of styles, this palace<br />
showcases neo-classical, neo-Islamic, and neo-renaissance<br />
architecture, among other delights. You can discover the<br />
breath-taking views from the many ramparts and turrets that<br />
feature heavily in this eclectic palace.<br />
The National Palace of Sintra<br />
A thousand years of history from within the walls tell its story<br />
as a bolt hole for royalty when things got tough in Lisbon. The<br />
luxurious interior and especially the remarkable tiling in the<br />
Sala dos Brasões are well worth the visit.<br />
Originally built for the Moorish rulers, the Manueline style<br />
building is exceptional and, even though it was badly<br />
damaged in the earthquake of 1755, it was faithfully restored<br />
to its former glory.<br />
The Moorish Castle<br />
More like something out of<br />
The Lord of The Rings than<br />
the romantic Pena Palace,<br />
this ruined fortress looks<br />
like it’s witnessed more<br />
than its fair share of<br />
battles. The double walls<br />
march along the rocky<br />
hillside above Lisbon<br />
and provide spectacular<br />
views. Even though it<br />
looks like a real fortress, the<br />
towers and walls were rebuilt<br />
in the romantic style loved by King<br />
Ferdinand II in the mid-19 th century.<br />
The Gardens of Chalet Da Condessa D’edla<br />
This miniature palace looks more at home in the alps than<br />
Portugal, but its eclectic charm is spellbinding. The intricate<br />
architecture and spectacular gardens feature plants and<br />
trees from across the globe. The shady Feteira da Condessa<br />
is filled with ferns from as far as New Zealand.<br />
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The relaxed and thoroughly tourist-friendly south of Portugal is the ideal place to kick back and enjoy<br />
warm weather, inviting beaches, and fantastic cuisine. Perched on the south-western tip of <strong>Europe</strong>,<br />
there are many reasons the region is so popular.<br />
ALGARVE |<br />
MORE THAN<br />
JUST A<br />
RESORT<br />
Getting In & Around<br />
There’s only one airport that serves the Portuguese south –<br />
that’s Faro. Be aware that getting from the airport to your<br />
resort, especially far-off places like Praia da Luz, isn’t possible<br />
by public transport in the evenings. Luckily, there are plenty<br />
of airport transfer companies that operate at reasonable<br />
prices. Check if the resort or hotel you’re staying at offers a<br />
service like this.<br />
If you want to reach the more inaccessible parts of the<br />
Algarve, we recommend renting a car. Driving around is a<br />
pleasant experience and most of the roads are in excellent<br />
condition. For a few Euros per trip, you can speed up your<br />
journey by taking the A22 toll road that connects all major<br />
towns and cities in the region.<br />
Although there is a train line connecting Lagos in the west<br />
to Vila Real de Santo António in the east, trains aren’t too<br />
frequent and it’s only a single line. Getting around by bus in<br />
the main towns, such as Albufeira, Faro, and Portimão, is an<br />
inexpensive way to travel… or you could just walk.<br />
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Things to Do & See<br />
Whatever type of holiday you want to have, you can find it in the<br />
Algarve. For history buffs, there’s the historic town of Silves<br />
with its dramatic citadel and orange tree-lined streets. Or, if<br />
you want to party, there’s the strip in Albufeira. Upmarket and<br />
sophisticated Villamoura has classy resorts and superyachts<br />
in the harbour, while golf fans have 31 stunning courses to<br />
choose from.<br />
One of the things we like the most about the Algarve is that<br />
you’re never too far from a beautiful beach. From the wild and<br />
rugged stretch of coast in Sagres, which feels like the end of the<br />
Earth, to a sunbather’s paradise in Quarteira, there’s something to<br />
meet the tastes of every palate.<br />
The Algarve is a great place for water sports of all kinds. There’s<br />
excellent surfing to be found, especially on the west coast, but<br />
stand-up paddleboarding is becoming an increasingly popular<br />
way to experience the sea at a statelier pace. One of the best ways<br />
to discover the dramatic coastline is by kayak, with guided tours<br />
available around hotspots like the Algar de Benagil, a natural sea<br />
cave with a huge skylight that’s only accessible by sea.<br />
When it comes to getting a feel for the real Algarve, we recommend<br />
a visit to the beautiful town of Lagos. The walled Old Town is a<br />
warren of narrow cobbled streets, trendy coffee shops, and some<br />
of the best restaurants in the region.<br />
Dining<br />
The Portuguese love their fish and nothing is more sacred<br />
to them than the humble sardine. There are festivals<br />
dedicated to the small silver fish and you’ll see them<br />
on flags, souvenirs, and barbecues across the Algarve.<br />
One of our favourite places to see the abundance of<br />
delightful fresh food available in the Algarve is at the<br />
Mercados de Olhão. The pair of brick market halls on<br />
the waterfront are packed with sellers offering the best<br />
fruits, vegetables, seafood, cheeses, and some of the<br />
most delicious honey you’ll ever try.<br />
The other national obsession is with sweet pastries. When<br />
you’re in Lagos, don’t miss Padaria Central, the centuries-old<br />
bakery where locals queue up alongside tourists to buy fresh<br />
pastel de nata and bolinhos de canela.<br />
Accommodation<br />
There are so many ways to experience the Algarve. If you want a<br />
relaxing holiday around the pool, then Albufeira with its familyfriendly<br />
resorts is an ideal getaway. If you want something a little<br />
more private, we recommend renting a villa – and for this, there’s<br />
none better than Shanti Villas Algarve, a <strong>Travel</strong> and <strong>Hospitality</strong><br />
Award winner. Check out the next page to find out more.<br />
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Shantivillas Group<br />
Portugal, Algarve | Luxury Villas<br />
There is nowhere else in <strong>Europe</strong> quite as enchanting as the Algarve, Portugal<br />
famous southern region boasts a rich culinary heritage, a beautiful<br />
coastline, friendly locals, plenty of attractions, and quaint villages. The<br />
area has long been considered a bucket list destination for many, and it<br />
remains an extremely attractive destination for professional athletes,<br />
celebrities and affluents individuals. So, if you find yourself yearning<br />
for a holiday to the region and are in the market for a luxurious stay<br />
then why not check out Shantivillas.<br />
Founded back in 2016, the multi award-winning Shantivillas<br />
has grown to become one of the leading Villa brokers in all<br />
of Portugal. The company was borne out of a common<br />
issue for many travellers which was difficulty in finding<br />
a reputable and professional villa provider who could<br />
source high quality, private, and luxurious villas.<br />
With a current base in the vibrant town of Albufeira, the Shantivillas<br />
portfolio includes 13 spectacular villas, 10 located in Malhão and the<br />
other 3 in Olhos d’Água. All of which are finished to a world class<br />
standard with the smallest, ideal for an intimate group of four,<br />
and the largest able to accommodate a staggering 16 individuals.<br />
As a standard all villas come with a private swimming pool, plenty<br />
of sun loungers, a state-of-the-art kitchen, en Suite bedrooms,<br />
luxurious amenities, air-conditioning, and free WIFI, some even<br />
have children’s pool. All properties are located only 40 minutes or<br />
so from Faro International airport with golf courses, sandy beaches,<br />
and shopping outlets easily accessible nearby.<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
Aldeamento do Malhão<br />
8200-484, Albufeira, Portugal<br />
Tel +351 289 362 131<br />
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To top this Shantivillas provides<br />
a whole host of additional<br />
hospitality services such as<br />
transfers, car rentals, a private<br />
chef, sightseeing tours, arrival<br />
orientation, grocery shopping,<br />
maid service and expert advice<br />
on the local area.<br />
At this point you’re probably<br />
wondering which Villa is right<br />
for you. To help we’ve put<br />
together a small guide on our<br />
favourites we’ve termed the<br />
amazing eight.<br />
Casa Cahombo<br />
Location | Malhão<br />
Bedrooms | 7, Sleeps up to 14<br />
This large and inviting villa<br />
exudes shades of traditional<br />
“Montes Alentejanos”, blending<br />
contemporary and rustic styles<br />
with panoramic views. Upon<br />
request we can liaise with local<br />
partners to provide a large pool,<br />
children’s pool, private games<br />
room, and a lush garden.<br />
Casa do Alemão<br />
Location | Malhão<br />
Bedrooms | 6, Sleeps up to 12<br />
Enriched with a beautiful white and blue<br />
design this property is lovely to look at. Its<br />
special location at the top Monte do Malhão<br />
means you can aspect spectacular coastal<br />
views to go with your private luxury haven.<br />
Equipped with both an adult and child pool,<br />
an impressive games room, spacious dining<br />
room, and lovely decorative fireplace, it’s<br />
fair to say it just might be our pick of the<br />
bunch.<br />
Casa do Inglês<br />
Location | Malhão<br />
Bedrooms | 4, Sleeps up to 10<br />
A homely country house that comes with everything<br />
you could ever want for a private family getaway.<br />
Expect elegant décor, a private swimming pool, a<br />
children’s pool, a billiard table, foosball table, and<br />
plenty of space.<br />
Casa de Baixo<br />
Location | Malhão<br />
Bedrooms | 4, Sleeps up to 8<br />
Supreme levels of elegance and style await at the vibrant Casa de Baixo, a spacious villa surrounded by manicured<br />
gardens and breath-taking panoramic views. Expect a games room with billiards table, a children’s pool, an adult pool,<br />
smart TV, BBQ equipment, open terrace, and nearby golf course.<br />
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Casa da Música<br />
Location | Malhão<br />
Bedrooms | 7, Sleeps up to 14<br />
It’s no surprise, given its name, that this villa pays homage<br />
to the importance of music in Portuguese culture. The<br />
musical décor and fine artwork are a treat to behold. The<br />
villa is one of the largest on the Shantivillas portfolio<br />
and offers tons of garden space to appreciate as well as<br />
breath-taking coastal views. Guests can enjoy both an<br />
adult and child swimming pool, a table tennis table, plenty<br />
of outdoor seating, and a smart TV.<br />
Casa Mirante 1<br />
Location | Olhos d’Água<br />
Bedrooms | 6, Sleeps up to 12<br />
A magnificent grand villa surrounded by lush,<br />
landscaped gardens and pool area overlooking<br />
the splendid Mediterranean Sea. There’s also<br />
an additional children’s pool, foosball table,<br />
and even tennis courts. The outdoor BBQ and<br />
open dining area means this villa is perfect for<br />
a spot of alfresco dining.<br />
Casa da Montanha<br />
Location | Malhão<br />
Bedrooms | 8, Sleeps up to 16<br />
Built towards the top of Malhão, the Casa da Montanha<br />
offer unbeatable views. On one side = it’s the majestic<br />
Monchique mountains and the other side the deep<br />
blue sea. This is the largest offering from Shantivillas,<br />
so much so that it comes with a separate garage for<br />
two cars, a pool house converted to a games room, an<br />
adult pool, children’s pool, and BBQ facilities.<br />
Casa Colónia<br />
Location | Olhos d’Água<br />
Bedrooms | 2, Sleeps up to 4<br />
The smallest villa on the roster certainly packs<br />
a punch. Ideal for a small intimate group, this<br />
villa is neatly located near the beach and in<br />
the vibrant seaside village of Olhos d’Água. It<br />
comes with its own private pool, sea views,<br />
and modern décor.<br />
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It might not be the first thing you think of when you think of Portugal, but the Iberian Peninsula is home<br />
to some of the biggest and best surfing waves found anywhere on the planet. From the mega waves of<br />
Nazaré to the surfer’s dream of Peniche, Portugal’s got it all.<br />
SURFING IN<br />
PORTUGAL<br />
What to Expect<br />
Peniche, on Portugal’s Atlantic coast, is a true surfer’s<br />
paradise. Thanks to a combination of ocean currents, a<br />
favourably shallow seabed, and predictable winds, the<br />
waves are phenomenal and attract surfers from around the<br />
world. Both sides of the Peniche peninsula have long, sandy<br />
beaches and there’s surf to be caught practically every day.<br />
The most famous beach and wave is called Supertubos, a<br />
huge and hollow barrel wave that’s up to five metres high.<br />
Home to the MEO Portugal Pro surfing competition, it’s not<br />
for the faint-hearted or novice surfer.<br />
Best Time of Year to Go<br />
If you want to catch the pros doing their thing in the waves,<br />
the best time to head to Peniche is in October. The MEO<br />
Portugal Pro surfing competition attracts the best surfers<br />
from around the world, so it’s an ideal time to visit even if<br />
you’re just going to watch.<br />
The ideal surfing conditions with consistent waves and<br />
light winds are in the dead of winter. February is reported<br />
to have the best swells of the whole<br />
year. For anyone more interested<br />
in warm weather than peak<br />
surfing conditions, visit during<br />
the summer when the average<br />
temperature is around 20°C.<br />
Preparation<br />
If you’re new to the sport of surfing,<br />
Peniche is one of the best places to<br />
learn. As Portugal’s surf capital, there<br />
are plenty of surf camps to join all year round. Beginners,<br />
however, should aim to visit between April and September,<br />
when the waves are smaller and more manageable.<br />
The water temperatures around Portugal, outside of the<br />
Algarve, is low enough to warrant a wetsuit all year round. We<br />
recommend buying your own or renting one from one of the<br />
surf schools in the village.<br />
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Bukubaki Eco Surf Resort<br />
Portugal | Resort<br />
Located only 15 minutes from <strong>Europe</strong>’s surf capital, Peniche, the Bukubaki Eco Surf Resort<br />
is a surfer’s dream. It’s location near Peniche means it’s easy to reach, with Lisbon<br />
airport only an hour or so away by car, and the resorts focus on sustainability and ecofriendly<br />
practices makes it the ideal choice if you’re planning a trip to the region.<br />
To start with guests, have the choice of three distinctive types of accommodation.<br />
First there is the Casas na Árvore, meaning houses in trees. This is exactly<br />
what you get, a uniquely suspended bungalow nestled amongst the<br />
trees. The bungalows are spacious, private, and come complete with a<br />
kitchenette, dining area, and terrace. Or if you prefer to sleep more in<br />
tune with nature then there are several tents available at Bukubaki<br />
Eco Surf Resort. These tents are fairly large, come with heating,<br />
a shared bathroom, and can accommodate up to Four adults.<br />
For the more economically minded there is the third option<br />
of a bed in a shared villa, much like a hostel everything<br />
in the villa is shared between occupants, this includes<br />
a kitchen, dining area, extensive bathrooms, a lounge<br />
area, and an outdoor terrace.<br />
For surfers there is much on offer. If you’re new or need<br />
to sharpen up, then the resort runs regular group lesson<br />
as well as private classes. On top of this any and all items<br />
you need are available for rent for either half a day, full<br />
day or week. This includes soft and hard boards, suits,<br />
long planks, and SUP.<br />
Surfing however, isn’t the only pastime on offer. The<br />
resort is home to a wellness centre, this includes the use<br />
of a Finnish Sauna and a wide selection of massages to<br />
choose from, along with regular Yoga and Pilates sessions.<br />
If you want something more adventurous then there is a<br />
small skate park on site and equipment available for rent.<br />
After a long day of surfing, nothing beats a good drink and<br />
bit of food in a lively bar. At the Bukubaki Eco Surf Resort<br />
guests can enjoy this at the onsite establishment named<br />
the Juncal n6. Built on the notion of local dining, the bar<br />
serves simple, fresh, homecooked style meals with a wide<br />
variety available to suit varying dietary requirements.<br />
Rua do Juncal 6,<br />
2525-331, Casais Mestre Mendo<br />
Tel +351 262 249 830<br />
Tel +351 967 138 917<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
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Spain<br />
thawards.com<br />
Madrid, Spain 000<br />
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The rich and exciting culture of Spain’s south west has attracted visitors for thousands of years. From the<br />
Romans to the Moors, you can expect to see traces of these great civilisations in the region’s architecture,<br />
food, and outlook on life.<br />
CULTURAL<br />
TOURISM<br />
ANDALUCIA<br />
Traditional Seville<br />
When you visit beautiful Seville, you get a feel for the real<br />
Andalucia. Stroll around the ancient and narrow streets of the<br />
Triana district where you might still hear traditional Flamenco<br />
music in the air.<br />
Don’t miss out on some of the best tapas bars in all of<br />
Spain, too. There are so many great eateries to choose from,<br />
ranging from the traditional to the ultra-contemporary, that<br />
we recommend taking one of the popular tapas tours.<br />
Moorish Granada<br />
The influence of the Moors and<br />
their Islamic architecture on<br />
this part of Spain is written<br />
large in the city of Granada.<br />
It’s an ancient place sitting<br />
at the foot of the impressive<br />
snow-capped Sierra Nevada<br />
mountains.<br />
You’ll want to visit the Alhambra, an astonishing Moorish<br />
fortress that overlooks the town. The labyrinth of slender<br />
alleyways around Alcaicería, at the base of the Alhambra, is<br />
reminiscent of the Arabic bazaar that used to be there.<br />
The Cuisine<br />
A visit to Andalucia is only made complete when you dive into<br />
some of the best food that Spain has to offer. Southern Spain<br />
is where tapas was first made popular, and the bars found on<br />
almost every street are well worth checking out.<br />
Try out salmorejo, a tomato soup served cold with jamón on<br />
top. Andalucia’s obsession with cured ham is found<br />
everywhere, as is their most famous comfort food, the<br />
humble but delicious churros con chocolate.<br />
And you can’t complete a trip to Andalucia without trying<br />
jerez. The fortified wine, named after the Jerez region, is<br />
better known as sherry in the rest of the world and is delicious<br />
when paired with local seafood.<br />
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<strong>Travel</strong> Factory Andalucía<br />
Spain | Cultural Tour Company<br />
Experiences Through Different Eyes<br />
Andalucía, the vast southern region of Spain, is a holiday maker’s dream<br />
and has been a popular travel destination for decades. Most travellers<br />
to the region will feel they have it figured out or they’ve seen it all, but<br />
they couldn’t be more wrong. Andalucía boasts a ton of hidden gems,<br />
unique sites, and unexplored quarters. To see this side of the region,<br />
you’ll need an expert – and for this, we recommend <strong>Travel</strong> Factory<br />
Andalucía.<br />
<strong>Travel</strong> Factory Andalucía was established on the core principle<br />
of providing an in-depth, immersive, and alternative<br />
Andalusian experience for visitors. “Experience through<br />
different eyes” is the company motto, which is exactly<br />
what you get. Tours are built on exploring lesser<br />
visited but much more local historical attractions,<br />
cultural sites, idyllic villages, and natural<br />
landscapes, all culminating in a much more<br />
authentic and enveloping experience for<br />
travellers.<br />
Tours are built to encourage a more affable and intimate<br />
experience, meaning group numbers are limited to six.<br />
This allows for a degree of flexibility and personalisation<br />
so you can always customise the tour to suit your own<br />
preferences and requirements. This leads to much more<br />
unique and memorable experiences.<br />
The pre-designed tours can either be road trips, hiking<br />
and walking tours, or a hybrid of the two. Road trips last for<br />
about seven hours and encompass a range of beautiful,<br />
quirky, and peculiar places in Andalucía. Hiking and<br />
walking tours, on the other hand, allow access to those<br />
parts of Andalucía you can’t reach via car. Expect to see<br />
some of the most beautiful, untouched, natural sites in all<br />
the region. The hybrid tours obviously mix the two, taking<br />
you to some truly unique and remote attractions.<br />
The other option is a completely tailored experience,<br />
where you can work with the knowledgeable and friendly<br />
team at <strong>Travel</strong> Factory Andalucía to design a trip that suits<br />
you. These can be full day, half-day, road-trip, hiking, etc.<br />
– anything you want!<br />
Av. de Colon, 1, T3<br />
29740 Torre del Mar, Málaga<br />
Spain<br />
Tel +34 688 908 435<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
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There’s a good reason why the autonomous communities of the Balearic Islands are so popular with<br />
tourists. There’s everything from raucous nightlife to UNESCO-protected Biosphere Reserves to discover<br />
on your next trip.<br />
THE BALEARIC<br />
ISLANDS<br />
Mallorca<br />
The biggest island of the four by size, Mallorca, boats crystalclear<br />
waters and towering mountains. Visit the cultural hub<br />
of Palma with its stunning Gothic Roman cathedral, Arab<br />
baths, and high-end shopping on the Passeig des Born. The<br />
rest of the island offers treks through the world heritage site<br />
of Serra de Tramuntana, white sand beaches, and exciting<br />
nightlife in Magaluf.<br />
Menorca<br />
Low-key and relaxed are two of the best ways to describe<br />
pretty Menorca. The cities of Maó in the east and Ciutadella<br />
de Menorca in the west are as close as you can get to busy,<br />
while the rest of the island has a distinctly bucolic charm not<br />
found on the other Balearics. Although there are hundreds<br />
to choose from, we recommend checking out Cala Mitjaneta<br />
beach for an unforgettable time.<br />
Ibiza<br />
The proud party capital of the Balearics, Ibiza, is famous<br />
for its hedonistic parties and mega-clubs that attract the<br />
best DJs in the world. Ibiza Town<br />
and Sant Antoni are where you’ll<br />
find the action, but don’t forget<br />
that this island is also ideal for<br />
a more relaxed holiday in the<br />
sun. Check out the quieter<br />
resorts of Portinatx and Puerto<br />
San Miguel – they’re perfect for<br />
a lazy holiday in and out of the<br />
blue western Mediterranean seas.<br />
Formentera<br />
The smallest of the four Balearic Islands, this relaxed island<br />
lies just off the southern tip of Ibiza and is worlds away from<br />
the slick nightclubs and boat parties of its closest neighbour.<br />
If you’re looking for a place to get away from world, this is<br />
it. The only way to get there is by sea and, with blinding<br />
white sand beaches and rocky coves galore, it’s a swimmer’s<br />
paradise.<br />
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France<br />
thawards.com<br />
Drôme, France 000<br />
174 175
The Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower, the Notre-Dame de Paris… France’s cosmopolitan capital is home<br />
to some of the most iconic sights in the entire world and often tops the list of the most-visited cities in<br />
the world. It’s easy to see why.<br />
PARIS |<br />
THE CITY<br />
OF LIGHT<br />
Getting In & Around<br />
Like any key world city, Paris is home to multiple airports.<br />
The Charles de Gaulle International Airport is probably most<br />
familiar to tourists and well connected globally through many<br />
major air carriers. Orly International Airport, on the other<br />
hand, is more focused on domestic routes and short-haul<br />
<strong>Europe</strong>an routes. Beauvais Airport, the smallest of the three,<br />
is used primarily by low-cost carriers.<br />
We think the easiest way to get to Paris is by train. You can<br />
hop onboard the Eurostar or a Trans-<strong>Europe</strong>an Train and be<br />
there within a few hours from most neighbouring <strong>Europe</strong>an<br />
cities. A Navigo card will get you on the famous Paris Metro<br />
that connects all parts of the city.<br />
Things to See & Do<br />
You could head over to the Louvre Museum and join the<br />
crowds gazing at the world’s most famous painting, the<br />
Mona Lisa. Then take a stroll west along the wide Avenue<br />
des Champs-Élysées to the chic shopping district of the<br />
8 th Arrondissement. Finally, head over to Montmartre with<br />
its village feel and spectacular<br />
nightlife.<br />
Dining<br />
Parisians practically<br />
invented café culture,<br />
so make sure you visit<br />
a couple during your<br />
stay. A great place for<br />
people-watching, you<br />
can tuck into a colourful<br />
macaron while downing<br />
an espresso or two at Le<br />
Voltigeur, on rue des Francs<br />
Bourgeois.<br />
Accommodation<br />
A stone’s throw from the Moulin Rouge is the ultra-cool Kube<br />
Hotel. Expect stunning modern interiors and one of the best<br />
cocktail bars in the area.<br />
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My Private Paris<br />
France | Private Tour Company<br />
Experience Paris with the Finest Local Guides<br />
Paris is one of the finest cities in the world, jam packed with historic<br />
sites, world-class museums, beautiful architecture, iconic art, and a<br />
wonderful culinary heritage. Deciding how to navigate and make the<br />
most of your trip may seem like a daunting task, for which we have<br />
the solution. Planning your trip with My Private Paris.<br />
My Private Paris, a boutique tour company found by experienced<br />
guides Marie & Bertrand, is your opportunity to see and<br />
experience Paris through the eyes of a local. Rather than<br />
focusing on big groups Marie and Bertrand centred My<br />
Private Paris on providing high quality and immersive<br />
private tours and experiences. Using handpicked<br />
private guides, insider knowledge, and love of<br />
the city, My Private Paris has grown to become<br />
the most awarded company in the city.<br />
The services presented by My Private Paris are built around<br />
varying interests, needs, and are 100% tailor made. These can<br />
be broken down into four distinct categories, firstly there are<br />
Museum Tours, local neighborhoods and experiences to Explore<br />
Paris, Day Trips from Paris, and finally the most premium service<br />
of a carefully tailored multi-day itinerary.<br />
Museum Tours are private tours focused on the many stunning<br />
museums and historic attractions Paris is home to. The Louvre<br />
of course, Musée d’Orsay, Rodin Museum, but also Gothic<br />
wonders such as Sainte Chapelle and Notre Dame, and even<br />
the famous Paris Catacombs are covered.<br />
To Explore Paris on the other hand, other great tours concentrate<br />
on some of the most important aspects of the French culture<br />
such as the local gastronomy with chocolate & pastries or wine<br />
& cheese tastings, or local iconic neighborhoods charming area<br />
of Montmartre, and the trendy neighbourhood of Le Marais.<br />
The Day Trips from Paris provide the opportunity to get out and<br />
explore exciting parts of France. Versailles, Normandy, Giverny,<br />
Fontainebleau, and the Loire Valley all make for an unforgettable<br />
day trip from Paris. Choose Wisely.<br />
Finally, the Custom-Made Itineraries allow you to work with My<br />
Private Paris to design your perfect trip from A to Z. A chance<br />
to work with Marie and Bertrand, pick their brain, and take<br />
advantage of their unique insight.<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
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179
Belgium<br />
thawards.com<br />
Walzin, Dinant, Belgium<br />
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Less touristy than Bruges, the multicultural yet traditional capital city of Belgium is one of our favourite<br />
<strong>Europe</strong>an destinations.<br />
BRUSSELS |<br />
THE COMFORT<br />
FOOD HEART<br />
OF EUROPE<br />
Getting In & Around<br />
One of the best things about Brussels is its location. Less<br />
than two hours away from London by Eurostar, you don’t<br />
need to worry about flying to one of <strong>Europe</strong>’s best capital<br />
cities. Getting around once you’re there is a cinch thanks to<br />
its affordable and reliable public transport system. See the<br />
sights by train, tram, bus, or metro.<br />
Things To Do & See<br />
A trip to Brussels wouldn’t be right without a visit to the<br />
Grand Place. One of <strong>Europe</strong>’s best surviving main squares, it’s<br />
classed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While you’re there,<br />
don’t forget to look for the cheeky Manneken Pis fountain just<br />
around the corner.<br />
One of our favourite things to visit in Brussels is the Atomium,<br />
the stainless-steel oddity that houses exhibitions as well as<br />
one of the best views of the city. After touring the city sights,<br />
the best way to relax is with a traditional Belgian beer or to<br />
get pampered at the world-class Serendip Spa.<br />
Dining<br />
Fans of comfort food will find themselves at home in Belgium’s<br />
capital. The national obsession with delicious moulesfrites<br />
(mussels and chips) is obvious, with the famous Chez<br />
Léon definitely being the place to try it. Or you can forget<br />
the mussels and simply indulge in crispy fries served with<br />
mayonnaise at a street corner friterie.<br />
You’ll be happy to know that the indulgent eating doesn’t stop<br />
there. The two most famous Belgian foodie exports should<br />
not be missed. Hot Belgian waffles served with fresh fruit,<br />
decadent whipped cream, or Nutella are firm favourites. And<br />
don’t forget the luxurious chocolate shops on nearly every<br />
street!<br />
Accommodation<br />
We recommend checking in to Hotel Amigo, which is situated<br />
just off the Grand Place. This elegant and stylish hotel offers<br />
a concierge service and fine dining restaurant on site.<br />
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Serendip Spa & Yoga<br />
Belgium | Massage Centre<br />
Rejuvenate Your Mind Body & Soul<br />
Tucked way just off Brussels prestigious Avenue Louise lies the multi-award<br />
winning Serendip Spa & Yoga, a famed local centre for wellbeing and health.<br />
Since it opened, over 10 years ago, the Spa has built up an excellent reputation<br />
for its luxurious ambience, excellent service, unique treatments, high quality<br />
products, and innovation. Treatments, teachings, and perspectives, from all<br />
over the world are bought together to ensure you find your perfect wellness<br />
experience regardless of whether you’re an individual or as part of a<br />
couple, family group, or work team.<br />
There are an excellent range of treatments available a Serendip<br />
Spa & Yoga. There are over 30 different massages to choose<br />
from, this includes common ones like Shiatsu, Sports,<br />
Balinese, Deep Tissue, and Aromatherapy, and some notso-common.<br />
There are even family-centric massages<br />
offered such as a baby massage, a mother-baby<br />
bonding massage, and a pregnancy soother. And<br />
for couples there are some great options like<br />
the 3-hour Serendipity Ritual for Two.<br />
Our pick of the bunch however is the Serendips Signature Asian<br />
Fusion Therapy which combines elements of Balinese, Ayurvedic,<br />
Tibetan, Aborigine & Thai massage, acupressure points and<br />
gentle stretching with alluring aromas to leave you feeling deeply<br />
relaxed, rejuvenated, and de-stressed.<br />
Aside from the massages there is a wonderful set of facials and<br />
body treatments available. This includes anti-cellulite treatments,<br />
body scrubs, aromatherapy wraps, thermogenic attacks, and<br />
reflexology.<br />
Yoga is of course a key facet of wellness, and with over 40 types<br />
of courses, classes, workshops, and sessions to choose from, it’s<br />
fair to say Serendip is one of the most inspiring yoga hubs in the<br />
area. There are regular and private options that vary in difficulty so<br />
whether you’re a complete beginner or experienced yogi there’s<br />
something for you.<br />
So, whether you’re in search of a restorative massage to fix<br />
aching muscles, or a feel-good treatment, or a yoga class, or to<br />
simply escapes to recharge your mental & physical batteries then<br />
the world class international team at Serendip is here for you.<br />
Place Stephanie 16-18<br />
1050 Brussels, Belgium<br />
Tel +32 2 503 55 04<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
185
Netherlands<br />
thawards.com<br />
Zaanse Schans, Zaanstad, Netherlands<br />
186 187
Although the Dutch capital has a reputation for wild nightlife and its quirky coffeeshop culture, there’s a<br />
lot more to this city on the water than first meets the eye.<br />
SIGHTS AND<br />
SOUNDS<br />
AMSTERDAM<br />
Fill Up on Culture<br />
Nearly three million people visit the Rijksmuseum<br />
every year; it’s worth joining them on your visit. You<br />
can gawp at Rembrandt’s unfinished masterpiece The<br />
Night Watch, then check out the biggest collection of<br />
art and artifacts in the Netherlands, all under one roof.<br />
That’s not all, though – the Dutch capital is home to<br />
the CoBrA Museum of Modern Art for something a<br />
little more contemporary.<br />
Hit the Markets<br />
The Dutch love shopping for a bargain, especially in<br />
the open air. The Albert Cuyp Market is a great place<br />
to find souvenirs in Amsterdam. It’s a pleasing assault<br />
on all the senses where you can find anything from<br />
delicious stroopwafels and fresh fruit and vegetables<br />
to clothing.<br />
Go For a Cycle<br />
At the last count there were more than 881,000 bikes<br />
in Amsterdam. It’s no secret that the Dutch love to<br />
pedal around, so you should rent a bicycle<br />
when you’re in town. Cycling is easy,<br />
fun, and one of the best ways to see<br />
the sights. It’s an affordable mode<br />
of transport and a great way to<br />
burn off breakfast!<br />
Take a Canal Cruise<br />
With more than 60 miles of<br />
canals in the city alone, we<br />
think the best way to get to<br />
know Amsterdam is from the<br />
deck of a Dutch barge. There’s not<br />
only something special about seeing<br />
Amsterdam from this angle but it’s<br />
also a handy way to get around. Take in a<br />
night tour to see the bright lights of the city’s most<br />
exciting neighbourhoods.<br />
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Sebi Boat Tours<br />
Netherlands | Cruise Company<br />
The famous Canals of Amsterdam are one of the city’s most iconic attractions, with boat<br />
cruises being a big draw for tourists all year round. While companies providing this<br />
service are plentiful, we however recommend only the finest; Sebi Boat Tours. Founded<br />
by passionate Amsterdammers and best friends Sebi and Olivier, Sebi Boat Tours offer<br />
unforgettable and unparalleled cruises. Watching Sebi captain, his affectionately<br />
named vessel Giuliana, is a sight to behold as he draws on years of experience to<br />
provide you with a personalized, insightful, and beautiful tour of Amsterdam.<br />
The Giuliana has both an inside and outside space and is equipped with a<br />
toilet. The boat is suitable for maximum 12 guests. Guests can choose<br />
between a daily ticket tour or a tailored private tour. The ticket tour<br />
is a pleasant two-hour cruise where you can expect to see all the<br />
famous sights, enjoy complimentary snacks, unlimited drinks,<br />
and learn about the heritage of Amsterdam. On the other hand,<br />
with a private tour you will have the whole vessel to yourself,<br />
and you can decide on time, location, route, and extensive<br />
food & drinks options. The whole experience can also<br />
be catered for special occasions including birthdays,<br />
corporate events, and even marriage proposals.<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
Tel +31638389474<br />
www.sebiboattours.com<br />
info@sebiboattours.com<br />
www.instagram.com/sebiboattours<br />
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Finland<br />
thawards.com<br />
Sveaborg, Helsinki, Finland<br />
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If you’ve never visited the capital of Finland before, prepare to be impressed by this young city’s bold<br />
sense of style, unique character, and fantastic culture.<br />
HELSINKI |<br />
A STYLISH<br />
NORDIC<br />
CAPITAL<br />
Getting In & Around<br />
Even though Finland is nestled in the far eastern reaches of<br />
<strong>Europe</strong>, it’s less than a three-hour flight away from London.<br />
If you like your public transport clean and efficient, you’ll love<br />
this place. Grab yourself a Helsinki Card when you arrive –<br />
this pass grants you access to the main sights as well as the<br />
excellent hop-on/hop-off bus tour.<br />
Things To Do & See<br />
Famous for its distinctive white granite buildings and jawdropping<br />
contemporary stylings, Helsinki is a place where<br />
neo-classical architecture sits comfortably next to modernist<br />
design. Check out the Central Market first. It’s a haven for<br />
fresh local produce, souvenirs, and the perfect place for a bit<br />
of people-watching.<br />
Stroll along Aleksanterinkatu, the main shopping street, or<br />
take in the culture at one of the city’s many museums and<br />
art galleries. We recommend visiting Ateneum, Finland’s<br />
national gallery, as well as the stunning Kiasma Museum of<br />
Contemporary Art.<br />
Dining<br />
The Finns drink more coffee per head than anyone else in<br />
the world. We recommend checking out one of the city’s best<br />
coffee shops, the quirky Café Regatta, housed in a traditional<br />
cottage. Fish is an extremely popular food with Finnish<br />
people and Baltic herring is a firm favourite. Check out the<br />
contemporary food scene or go traditional at Lappi Ravintola,<br />
where roasted reindeer is a menu highlight.<br />
Accommodation<br />
You can expect to find an impressive range of luxury and<br />
contemporary hotels in Helsinki, but nothing fits the bill better<br />
than the Hotel Lilla Roberts. Based in a former police station,<br />
this boutique hotel is in the Kaartinkaupunki district and has<br />
a pleasant art deco theme running through the rooms.<br />
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Helsinki TukTours<br />
Finland | Unique Tour Company<br />
Finland’s largest and capital City, Helsinki, is a thriving metropolis<br />
offering much in the way to see and do. Its fairly accessible<br />
location makes it an ideal for a weekend getaway or short<br />
break. If you’re looking to get the most out of your time in<br />
the city, then look no further than Helsinki TukTours.<br />
Helsinki TukTours presents a unique, innovative,<br />
exciting, and eco-friendly way to experience<br />
Helsinki with just you and your friends.<br />
With the whole Tuk-tuk to yourself, and a<br />
knowledgeable local guide on hand, all you<br />
have to do is sit back and enjoy. Tours are<br />
informative, engaging, and adaptable<br />
should you wish to deviate or try<br />
something different.<br />
Currently there are four<br />
wonderful tours to choose<br />
from. This includes an<br />
immersive Best of Helsinki<br />
Tours, which is about two<br />
hour long or if you’re limited<br />
on time then you may prefer<br />
the Glimpse of Helsinki which<br />
is about one hour. For a<br />
unique look at Helsinki’s urban<br />
history why not go on the<br />
Concrete Jungle and Wooden<br />
Classicism Tours? And finally,<br />
there The True Nature of<br />
Helsinki Tour which includes a<br />
lovely stroll through Helsinki’s<br />
stunning Central Park Forest.<br />
Whatever you decide, you<br />
won’t be disappointed!<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
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Germany<br />
thawards.com<br />
Reichstagufer, Berlin, Germany<br />
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If you want to really get under the skin of Germany’s exciting capital city, you need to get off the tourist<br />
trail and dig a little deeper. By following the road less travelled, this exhilarating and non-stop city will<br />
open itself up to you and help forge memories that last a lifetime.<br />
72 Hour Club Nights<br />
It’s no secret that Berlin is home to some of the most outrageously cool nightclubs<br />
in the world. Since techno music was invented there in the early 80’s, Berlin’s<br />
reputation for insane nightlife has attracted clubbers from around the world.<br />
Arguably the most famous nightclub going is the eccentric and secretive<br />
Berghain, with its parties lasting from Friday to Monday and a strict ban on<br />
any photography inside the venue. You can expect an unforgettable night of<br />
loud music and pure hedonism – if the bouncers let you in, that is…<br />
ALTERNATIVE<br />
BERLIN<br />
The Corner Pub<br />
Although Berlin is famous for its exclusive mega-clubs playing techno 24<br />
hours a day, there’s also a vibrant slice of culture to be found in the cosy and<br />
traditional Eckkneipe, corner bars that dot the city. Survivors of world wars<br />
and the division of the city from east to west, they each tell a story that will<br />
show a side of Berlin you might have otherwise missed.<br />
Gather your friends for “a bump and a beer” – a glass of pilsner to wash down a<br />
shot of hard liquor, a tradition that has been fuelling Berliners for centuries. We<br />
recommend visiting any one of these couple of thousand unpretentious little<br />
community bars, but the best is probably Dicke Wirtin in Charlottenburg.<br />
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Art in a Once Divided City<br />
Berlin’s complicated and often difficult history has made it a hub for creative types and their fascinating artistic statements.<br />
Standing side by side with traditional art galleries and museums is a rich culture of street art that begs to be explored. We<br />
recommend a visit to gritty Dead Chicken Alley for a taste of old East Berlin, or the ruined listening post in Teufelsberg.<br />
Everywhere you visit in this multicultural city, bright and often politically-charged graffiti adorns walls, buildings, and just<br />
about any surface you can spray paint on. The stretches of the Berlin Wall that still stand are an ever-changing gallery for<br />
worldwide artists to add to daily.<br />
A Sustainable Place to Live and Work<br />
All this street art, self-expression, and political activism<br />
from Berliners doesn’t just mean a catchy slogan or empty<br />
promises. Berlin is one of the more progressive cities in<br />
<strong>Europe</strong>, with the abundance of eco-friendly products and<br />
vegan food available standing as testament to that.<br />
You can explore all sorts of environmental initiatives during<br />
your stay. These include urban farms in the heart of the<br />
city, restaurants that specialise in using ingredients that<br />
might otherwise be thrown away, and conscious fashion<br />
boutiques like Naturkaufhaus Steglitz.<br />
The Roaring 20s<br />
Even though it’s better known these days for its modern<br />
take on life, one of the most exciting periods of Berlin<br />
history was in the 1920s. Between the two world wars that<br />
tore Germany apart, the raucous parties, strong cocktails,<br />
and cheeky burlesque shows have become the stuff of<br />
legends.<br />
You can relive this period in Berlin’s past by visiting a<br />
modern take on decadent cabaret acts at the hip bar<br />
Prinzipal Kreuzberg or at Kleine Nachtrevue in Schöneberg.<br />
These naughty and fun slices of Berlin nightlife will give<br />
you an insight into how this industrial city became such an<br />
exciting place to be in the 21st century.<br />
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Berlinsidestories<br />
Germany | Tour Company<br />
Berlin is a historic city, an urban metropolis, and one of <strong>Europe</strong>’s cultural centres.<br />
Which is why it deserves to be explored to its fullest, going past the more<br />
common attractions, right through to the real cultural, artistic, and authentic heart<br />
of the city. For this task there’s only one company for the job: Berlinsidestories.<br />
Set up by vibrant Berliner, Emiko Morgaine, Berlinsidestories has fast<br />
developed a reputation for being one of the leading enterprises for a more<br />
immersive Berlin experience. Berlinsidestories originated from Emiko’s<br />
love of the city, educational background, and experience working as<br />
an artist and performer in the city’s nightlife and art scene. All this<br />
has ultimately lead to a passion for wanting to share Berlin from<br />
a different perspective.<br />
The tours are, in essence, personalised cultural tours<br />
showcasing Berlins colourful urban life. They usually last<br />
between 2 and 3 hours and have a limit of six people<br />
to ensure a more pleasant and communal setting.<br />
Expect to learn about Berlins history, walk around<br />
neighbourhoods, experience the contemporary<br />
culture, marvel at the art, shop at the<br />
boutiques, and for a day become a Berliner.<br />
Tours can be separated in to three interrelated categories: Art, Culture,<br />
and Social. With the art tours there are three to choose from, the East-<br />
Side-Story, West-Side-Story, and Subculture and Art Tour. Of course, East<br />
Berlin holds a stellar reputation for the arts, but the West is something of<br />
a hidden gem. The one to choose is up to you.<br />
While the art tours incorporate a cultural element, there are four tours<br />
dedicated specifically to the culture of Berlin. The Golden 20’s, Kneipen,<br />
and Everything But Techno tours are all wonderful nightlife experiences.<br />
Alternatively, you can select the Club Culture Tour and learn all the political,<br />
social, and historical significance of the famous Berlin club scene.<br />
If this wasn’t enough there are two political tours on offer. The first<br />
is a hard-hitting Refugees in Berlin tour that focuses on the positive<br />
impact and reality of life as refugee in Berlin. The second is a Berlin and<br />
Sustainability tour, a platform highlighting the importance of sustainability,<br />
environmental ethics, responsible consumption, and upcycling, and how<br />
this is shaping the city for the future.<br />
Last but not least Berlinsidestories also provide company events. These<br />
are exceptional personalised tours built around a specific enterprise,<br />
association, or professional group. Using Emiko’s expert knowledge, you<br />
can build a tour or experience set around art, history, culture, and so<br />
much more.<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
Tel +4917699585058<br />
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Italy<br />
thawards.com<br />
City of Florence<br />
206 207
Also known as Trentino South-Tyrol, this region borders both Austria and Switzerland. Containing the<br />
Italian Alps as well as sections of the towering Dolomites, it’s a fascinating place that’s packed with<br />
excellent ski resorts, picturesque mountain villages, and impressive fortresses.<br />
ALPINE<br />
PARADISE<br />
TRENTINO-<br />
ALTO ADIGE<br />
Why is it becoming a popular destination?<br />
The simple answer is because it has, until recently, been a bit<br />
overlooked by tourists. Visitors to Northern Italy will usually<br />
travel to Venice or Milan, while ski holidays are more likely to<br />
be booked in nearby Innsbruck or St Moritz.<br />
<strong>Travel</strong>lers in the know are flocking to Trentino thanks to<br />
its incredible alpine scenery, wealth of world-class ski<br />
destinations, and the cultural delights found in the region’s<br />
capital of Trento. You can have an outdoor holiday like no<br />
other here, with mountain biking and hiking trails to rival any<br />
other in <strong>Europe</strong> – and all without the massive queues.<br />
Even though this is a quieter part of Italy that’s less well known<br />
than Tuscany or Rome, you’ll most probably have heard of<br />
Lake Garda. Boasting a fantastic climate all year round,<br />
picturesque lakeside destinations like Riva Del Garda, and<br />
lake cruises available throughout the day, there’s something<br />
for everyone.<br />
History<br />
The fact that the area has different names depending on<br />
which language you speak tells some of the tale of this<br />
border region. As the gateway to Italy’s northern fertile plains,<br />
this mountainous province has changed hands between<br />
the Romans, the Goths, the Franks, and other tribes that<br />
fought over control of the area. It retains influence from its<br />
neighbouring Austria, while German is still the mother tongue<br />
of some towns and villages. In fact, it’s officially a bilingual<br />
part of Italy.<br />
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What to Expect<br />
Stunning jagged mountain ranges, crystal-clear lakes,<br />
pristine alpine villages, and some of the best foods in<br />
northern Italy. Raw cow’s milk cheeses like Puzzone di<br />
Moena are made in the high Dolomites, while Speck, a type<br />
of Tyrolean salami, is another delicacy that the locals are<br />
rightfully proud of.<br />
Things to Do<br />
When you’re in Trento, take the dizzyingly high cable car up<br />
to the village of Sardagna. You’ll ascend 400 metres in just a<br />
few minutes, all for one of the finest views of this staggeringly<br />
beautiful landscape. The city itself is a bit of a hidden gem.<br />
Nowhere near as overcrowded as Venice or Milan, the medieval<br />
centre has a 13th century castle and wide piazzas to explore.<br />
Obviously, this is a paradise for skiing and snowboarding. Our<br />
favourite destination is in Madonna di Campiglio, a lively ski<br />
resort that favours holidaymakers rather than professionals.<br />
For the elite skier, however, there’s Val di Fassa, home of the<br />
Italian ski team.<br />
If the idea of skiing down mountains or visiting cultural sights<br />
isn’t on your to-do list, the Trentino region has a wealth of<br />
luxurious hotels and resorts. Take Ansitz Steinbock, where you<br />
can relax in a luxurious suite, enjoy fine food, or simply use it<br />
as a base to explore the surrounding area.<br />
Because it’s an incredibly mountainous region, it’s also<br />
home to some of the most spectacular driving routes<br />
in <strong>Europe</strong>. You can discover incredible vistas, plunging<br />
valleys, and tiny villages, all from the comfort of your<br />
car. If the idea of driving yourself around isn’t appealing,<br />
there are private day tours that take in some of the best<br />
sights.<br />
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Ansitz Steinbock<br />
Italy | Luxury Hotel<br />
Flawless style, fine cuisine, and exceptional service are the order of the day<br />
at the charming Ansitz Steinbock. Nestled at the heart of the quaint<br />
hillside village of Villanders and offering beautiful views of the Dolomite<br />
mountains, this hotel is true <strong>Europe</strong>an gem. The history of the property<br />
dates back over 400 years, it started life as a castle residence whereas<br />
today it perfectly blends tradition with modernity to provide a world<br />
class hospitality experience.<br />
Housed at the hotel are 12 gorgeous suites, a whole host of<br />
dining options, and a soothing sun terrace. The surrounding<br />
area is perfect for a relaxed mountain break, a wellness<br />
retreat, culturally immersive activities, and thrilling<br />
outdoor pursuits.<br />
Suites<br />
The phrase “less is more” has always been the historic<br />
approach at the property and this is evident throughout<br />
the hotel. The interior design and décor, strikes a<br />
wonderful balance between sophisticated minimalism<br />
and elegant tradition. This is clear none more so than in<br />
the brilliantly constructed suites.<br />
There are in total 12 suites to choose from available as<br />
four distinct types. As a general rule you’ll find all the<br />
suites have an exclusive feel, equipped with wenge<br />
furniture, soft lights, and loam-plastered walls.<br />
In terms of amenities the suites come complete with<br />
an honesty-bar, king-sized bed, work desk, flatscreen<br />
TV, spacious living area, blue-tooth sound system,<br />
complimentary Wi-FI, century old spruce floorboards,<br />
a wellness shower, and bathroom with custom-made<br />
furniture from famed Tuscan brand, Antonio Lupi.<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
Vicolo F.-v.-Defreggergasse 14–<br />
39040 Villanders<br />
Tel +39 0472 843 111<br />
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Suite Von Neuhaus<br />
This is the largest suite available<br />
and can easily accommodate four<br />
individuals across two separate<br />
bedrooms. Welcoming open<br />
space, good use of natural light,<br />
and charming views await. On<br />
top of this guests are treated to<br />
a Finnish sauna made from Swiss<br />
pine, and a free-standing bathtub<br />
within the room.<br />
Suite Von Wolkenstein<br />
The slightly smaller Suite Von<br />
Wolkenstein differs from the Von<br />
Neuhaus only in that there is one<br />
guest bedroom. Otherwise, the<br />
room still has the same refined<br />
feel, can accommodate up to four<br />
people, includes a Finnish sauna,<br />
freestanding bathtub, and a pullout<br />
sofa for village and mountain<br />
views.<br />
Suite Caruesses<br />
Suite Caruesses is comparable<br />
to the Suite Von Wolkenstein<br />
in size and amenities although<br />
instead of a pull-out sofa<br />
guests can revel in a large<br />
Divan set in front of the bay<br />
window. The exposed timber<br />
and attention to details gives<br />
this suite an almost rustic feel.<br />
Suite Krössbrunn<br />
The smallest of all suites<br />
available, the Suite<br />
Krössbrunn, is by no means<br />
the least. It exudes elegance<br />
and what it lacks in indoor<br />
space it makes up for with a<br />
loggia, or covered balcony,<br />
which offers stunning views of<br />
over the majestic Dolomites.<br />
Instead of a Finnish sauna<br />
guests can enjoy an infrared<br />
sauna.<br />
Cuisine<br />
Main Dining Stube<br />
The main dining stube boasts a warm<br />
ambience, wood panelled walls, and idyllic<br />
views of the historic village of Villanders,<br />
dining will feel like a treat. This is where<br />
breakfast and dinner are served.<br />
All guests are treated a world class<br />
complimentary breakfast during their<br />
stay, aptly named the Breakfast Royale.<br />
A richly laid out spread packed locally<br />
baked goods, crisp bread, freshly brewed<br />
coffee, refreshing fruit, rich cold cuts, and<br />
appetizing cheese, await. All followed up<br />
by some caviar and champagne.<br />
The 5-course Alpine Dinner on the other<br />
hand gives a guest a glimpse into the<br />
gastronomic excellence of the region.<br />
Prepared by expert Gault Millau chef,<br />
Tomek Kinder, the menu emphasises local<br />
produce, fresh ingredients, and traditional<br />
flavours. It’s an a la carte menu that<br />
includes vegetarian options.<br />
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Defregger Stuben<br />
One of the premier fine-dining restaurants in the region, the<br />
Defregger Stuben, has 1 culinary philosophy: to sweep you off<br />
your feet and take you on a wonderful taste bud journey with<br />
Gault Millau chef Tomek Kinder. With only 8 tables available we<br />
strongly advise to book ahead. The seasonal a la carte menus<br />
will leave you with an unforgettable dining experience.<br />
Stain<br />
For lunch the Defregger Stuben serves up a delectable and<br />
refined menu. So refined in fact it deserves its own name, Stain.<br />
Every meal on the menu is created by chef Tomek Kinder, a<br />
sublime blend of regional flavours and Mediterranean influences.<br />
Seasonal ingredients are transformed into masterpieces to<br />
create a remarkable lunch.<br />
Garden Terrace<br />
The ideal spot to enjoy life, watch the world go by, and bask in the<br />
warm glow of the sun. During the spring and summer months<br />
the outdoor terrace is transformed into a restaurant, boasting<br />
lovely views over the mountains. A great spot for a coffee, light<br />
lunch, or snack. In the evening it’s the setting for the Defregger<br />
lounge’s garden.<br />
Location<br />
No feature on Ansitz Steinbock<br />
would be complete without a<br />
short bit on Villandro or as its more<br />
commonly known outside of Italy,<br />
Villanders.<br />
The village has a long and rich<br />
history which is intertwined with<br />
the hotel itself. Castles played a<br />
key role in fortifying the village and<br />
consolidating power for the Lords<br />
of Villanders. Today the castles<br />
are well preserved and offer a<br />
great opportunity to observe fine<br />
historic architecture. Villanders is<br />
also known for its extensive mines<br />
which are open to the public. The<br />
surrounding mountainous area<br />
is popular among hikers and for<br />
Törggelen.<br />
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The perfect Tuscan holiday makes the most of the region’s fascinating array of architecture, culture,<br />
food, wine, and beautiful natural scenery. From the high Appenine Mountains to the fertile lands of the<br />
Tuscan Plain, get ready for a journey like no other.<br />
ULTIMATE<br />
TUSCANY<br />
Where to Go<br />
You won’t find it difficult to see why this is one of Italy’s most<br />
popular regions for visitors. You can see the home of the Italian<br />
Renaissance in Florence, with its grand Duomo and Ponte Vecchio<br />
spanning the river Arno, or travel to Pisa and see the famous<br />
leaning tower.<br />
One of the other great attractions in the region is San Gimignano,<br />
a medieval walled town with towers that soar above the cobbled<br />
streets below. However, we think the jewel in the crown of this<br />
golden coloured part of Italy is Siena, a grand old city with a<br />
stunning piazza, friendly locals, picturesque old buildings,<br />
exciting cuisine, and, of course, a heart-stopping city-centre<br />
horseback race each year.<br />
If golden sand beaches, a dramatic coastline, and the<br />
crystal-clear waters of the Ligurian sea are more your<br />
sort of thing, the Etruscan Coast is the place to go.<br />
Even though Tuscany is more famous for its hills<br />
and countryside, the Tuscan coastline is criminally<br />
underrated and a seaside retreat is a beautiful way to<br />
spend a few lazy days.<br />
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What To Do<br />
We think one of the ways to bring home a little<br />
piece of Tuscany with you is to learn how<br />
they cook. Luckily, there are a vast number of<br />
cookery experiences scattered throughout<br />
the region. From village homestays where<br />
Nonna teaches you her secret recipe to worldrenowned<br />
culinary schools, you’re spoiled for<br />
choice.<br />
As the perfect accompaniment to classic Tuscan<br />
food, the region’s wines are some of the most<br />
famous across the world. The dry red wines<br />
of Montepulciano, Chianti, and Brunello di<br />
Montalcino are some of our favourites,<br />
so a wine tasting tour is an ideal way to<br />
familiarise yourself with the vintage while<br />
exploring the countryside.<br />
Or maybe you’re a bit of an adventurer,<br />
in which case Tuscany offers up much<br />
in the way of hiking and trekking routes.<br />
There are so many stunning parts of this<br />
region only accessible via foot that makes<br />
the trip evermore rewarding.<br />
The Best Time of Year to Visit<br />
If you want to experience Tuscany’s most famous race, the Palio di<br />
Siena, the only time to visit is in mid-August. You will, however,<br />
be sharing the city with at least 60,000 people and the mercury<br />
can rise to more than 40°C. To avoid the huge crowds that<br />
flock to the region’s seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites,<br />
we recommend visiting in the spring or autumn, when the<br />
temperatures are also more comfortable.<br />
Where to Stay<br />
Our personal favourite for a truly unique Tuscan experience<br />
is the Arli Hotel Hideaway Punta<br />
Ala, a well-run and worldclass<br />
resort nestled in<br />
rural Tuscany. This<br />
<strong>Travel</strong> and <strong>Hospitality</strong><br />
Award Winner is<br />
featured on the<br />
next page.<br />
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ARLI Hotel Hideaway<br />
Punta Ala<br />
Italy | Design Hotel<br />
Tuscany is one of the most popular holiday destinations in <strong>Europe</strong>, famed for<br />
its historic towns, renaissance art, culinary heritage, local wine, and rolling<br />
green hills. It goes without saying that you’ll want to stay in a hotel that<br />
exudes a high level of luxury, quality, and service. For this, there’s only one<br />
answer: the Arli Hotel Hideaway Punta Ala.<br />
Owned and operated by hospitality extraordinaire Francesca Lopez<br />
Spajani, this luxurious boutique hotel is renowned for its unique<br />
adults-only concept, superb design, outstanding location, deluxe<br />
feel, and, most of all, excellent guest service.<br />
The rooms ooze a majestic elegance and traditional charm<br />
that is visible throughout the property. You can choose<br />
from a single room to a double and right the way up<br />
to a master suite, a stylishly decorated, expansive<br />
room that sleeps up to four. All rooms boast a fully<br />
furnished patio or balcony, plush amenities,<br />
Frigobar, free Wi-Fi, flatscreen TVs, air<br />
conditioning, and tea and coffee makers.<br />
Facilities on the premises include an inviting<br />
swimming pool, a tranquil hot tub, an outfitted<br />
gym, a relaxing sauna, a superb cocktail bar,<br />
and beautiful gardens furnished with tables,<br />
seating, and deck chairs. A treat for all guests is<br />
the complimentary breakfast buffet, made up of<br />
a wide selection of only the best local produce<br />
and ingredients.<br />
The exceptional location means you can indulge<br />
in several activities. The nearby golf club Punta<br />
Ala will set you up for a great game, while the<br />
nearest beach is only a couple of miles away,<br />
making it easily accessible and ideal for sailing or<br />
water sports. Cycling, hiking, and walking tours<br />
can all be arranged at the property as well as any<br />
wellness experiences, such as massages and<br />
yoga classes.<br />
Your dream Tuscan trip can only start with the<br />
perfect Tuscan hotel – which is exactly what you<br />
get at the Arli Hotel Hideaway Punta Ala!<br />
Via del Pozzino, 2, 58043<br />
Punta Ala GR, Italy<br />
Tel +39 0564 923184<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
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If you only have a day in what’s arguably the most beautiful region of Italy, you’re going to need to fit a<br />
lot in.<br />
6 AM<br />
12 PM<br />
5 PM<br />
10 PM<br />
24 HOURS IN<br />
CAMPANIA<br />
Buongiorno! If you want to<br />
visit an active volcano that’s<br />
also home to more than 3<br />
million people, put on your<br />
boots and head to Mount<br />
Vesuvius. It’s an easy climb<br />
and the views from the top<br />
are spectacular.<br />
10 AM<br />
Head towards the<br />
Spaccanapoli neighbourhood<br />
of Naples – it’s full of life and<br />
vibrant colour at any time of<br />
the day. This chaotic Italian<br />
city is the perfect place to<br />
do a bit of people-watching.<br />
Visit a typical Neapolitan<br />
café to try an espresso and a<br />
crispy sfogliatella pastry.<br />
It’s lunchtime and you’re in<br />
Naples, the home of the pizza.<br />
You can take a Neapolitan<br />
pizza-making lesson from<br />
an expert pizzaiolo, then eat<br />
your creation. Buon appetito!<br />
3 PM<br />
The coastal road from Naples<br />
to Sorrento is gorgeous. You’ll<br />
have a hard time keeping<br />
your eyes on the winding<br />
roads that take you south<br />
around the Gulf of Naples.<br />
Hop on a boat trip from<br />
Sorrento to see the beauty<br />
of the Amalfi Coast and<br />
Capri from sea level. Get a<br />
glimpse of the famous Blue<br />
Grotto and return in time for<br />
dinner and a swim at Bagni<br />
Salvatore.<br />
9 PM<br />
The sun is slowly going down<br />
over the bay of Naples. We<br />
can’t think of anywhere<br />
better to watch it sink into<br />
the blue sea than from the<br />
Pignatella Beach.<br />
If you feel like having a party,<br />
head east to the university<br />
town of Salerno. The nightlife<br />
is famous in this area and<br />
won’t stop until the next<br />
morning.<br />
6 AM<br />
If you can manage it, make<br />
your way to Salerno’s open<br />
market. You can buy a huge<br />
range of delicious local fruits,<br />
vegetables, cheeses, and<br />
olives. You’ll need it after<br />
your busy 24 hours!<br />
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GoinItaly<br />
Italy | Private Tour Company<br />
The southern regions of Italy such as Basilicata, Calabria, Campania, and Puglia, are<br />
amongst the most stunning in <strong>Europe</strong> and offer much in the way of attractions,<br />
historical sites, culture pursuits, outdoor activities, culinary tradition, and wine<br />
tourism.<br />
A holiday to southern Italy is a thing of beauty, it’ll allow you to experience<br />
authentic local culture, try regional cuisine, take in magnificent landscapes,<br />
and leave you with wonderful memories for life. You may ask, who will<br />
be the one to guide us on this Southern Italian Odyssey? The answers<br />
is none other than the excellent GoiniItaly.<br />
Goinitaly is your gateway to the wonderful regions of southern Italy.<br />
Helmed by native Italian and experienced industry specialist,<br />
Gaetano Barone, GoinItaly aim to offer a much more immersive<br />
experiences than a simple tour. The goal is for you to enjoy<br />
a complete holiday from when you land to when you<br />
depart. Luxury transfers, knowledgeable guides, an<br />
overabundance of activities, and thoroughly vetted<br />
hotels are included in packages to allow you to enjoy<br />
a stress-free trip. Ultimately, you’ll come away with<br />
a better understanding of Italy, the culture, the<br />
local customs, and traditions.<br />
Popular activities include wine tasting, a culinary tour,<br />
cooking classes, boat tours, city walking tours, and<br />
an insightful visit to a traditional extra virgin olive oil<br />
producer. If you’re interested in an outdoor activity, then<br />
why not check out one of Campania’s famous trekking<br />
trails. Treks to the Path of the Gods, the Mills’ Valley,<br />
Mount Vesuvius, Mount Tre Calli, and so much more can<br />
all be arranged.<br />
For history buffs there’s load to do, southern Italy is<br />
packed with museums and art galleries, as well as<br />
religious and archaeological sites dating back to pre-<br />
Roman times.<br />
Tours are focused on a personable experience meaning<br />
group numbers are limited to no more than 16 people. The<br />
small-group approach equates to a more comfortable<br />
and captivating trip while also allowing for a degree of<br />
flexibility so you can always customise the tour to suit<br />
your own preferences and requirements.<br />
With Goinitaly you’re assured is an unforgettable journey<br />
in a fascinating country with a passionate guide. What<br />
more could you want?<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
Tel +39 339 652 6524<br />
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Croatia<br />
thawards.com<br />
Visovac Island, National Park Krka, Croatia 000<br />
228 229
Ancient, fascinating, and sophisticated, this is a place that needs to be seen to be believed. Explore<br />
soaring city walls that surround immaculately preserved medieval buildings in this magical city on the<br />
blue Adriatic Sea.<br />
DUBROVNIK |<br />
PEARL<br />
OF THE<br />
ADRIATIC<br />
Getting In & Around<br />
It’s just two and a half hours away from London by plane, but<br />
you’ll feel like you’re much further away. The main airport is<br />
only 30 minutes away from the old town by bus or taxi, or you<br />
could arrange for an airport transfer to your accommodation.<br />
The city lacks trains or even trams but don’t worry because<br />
it’s still really easy to get around. It’s a walkable city for most<br />
explorers, but the bus system is reliable and totally affordable<br />
too.<br />
Situated on the beautiful Adriatic Sea and boasting lots of<br />
tiny islands just off the coast, a popular way to get around is<br />
by boat. You can hop aboard one of the main ferries or smaller<br />
private rental boats at Gruž harbour. From here, you can reach<br />
the stunning islands of Lopud and Mljet in complete comfort.<br />
Exploring the city walls and Old Town is best done on foot.<br />
Avoid renting a car unless you like sitting in traffic and<br />
searching for parking. Taking in the sights at walking pace is<br />
the best way to understand this venerable city.<br />
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Things to Do & See<br />
If you want to understand a city, you<br />
need to see it from a few different angles.<br />
We think the best way of doing this in<br />
Dubrovnik is by clambering up Mount<br />
Srđ, the rocky outcrop that overlooks the<br />
town. The zig-zag path that snakes up<br />
its side is worth the effort, but if you don’t<br />
fancy a hike, you can take the cable car<br />
instead. The view is jaw dropping, and it’s the<br />
perfect spot to watch the sun set over the<br />
idyllic Adriatic Sea.<br />
The Old Town is arguably the biggest<br />
attraction in the city, and it’s easy to see why.<br />
You can explore the well-preserved medieval<br />
architecture all around you, or simply wander<br />
along the palm tree-lined streets with views<br />
of the harbour and the waters beyond.<br />
Once you’ve visited the famous Rector’s<br />
Palace and the Large and Small Onofrio’s<br />
fountains, you can chill out on Stradun, the<br />
picture-perfect main street for a bit of people<br />
watching. And if you’re a big fan of Game<br />
of Thrones, you can take a walking tour of<br />
fictional King’s Landing from the hit series.<br />
Dining<br />
To get a real taste of Croatian food, you need to try some slow cooked<br />
Pašticada. This traditional Dalmatian dish is made from marinated beef<br />
and is best washed down with local red wines such as Postup or Dingač.<br />
If seafood’s more your thing, you’re in luck. This city makes the most of<br />
its place on the bountiful Adriatic, and there’s no better place to try it<br />
than our favourite restaurant, Nautika. It’s a fine dining restaurant with a<br />
constantly changing menu that showcases local favourites like sea bass<br />
and lobster.<br />
Accommodation<br />
Famous for its beautiful beach, relaxed<br />
atmosphere, and plentiful nightlife, the best<br />
part of Dubrovnik to stay in is the newer trendy<br />
neighbourhood of Lapad. Accommodation<br />
options our plentiful but our favourite must<br />
be the stunning Hotel More. A <strong>Travel</strong> and<br />
<strong>Hospitality</strong> Award winner profiled extensively<br />
on the next page.<br />
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Hotel More<br />
Croatia | Luxury Boutique Hotel<br />
As if the stunning surroundings of Dubrovnik’s Lapad Bay wasn’t enough,<br />
Hotel More has made its name by offering the ultimate in luxury, in a<br />
location that’s close to the action but still feels a million miles away from<br />
ordinary life.<br />
Thousands of visitors every year make the ancient but sophisticated<br />
city of Dubrovnik one of the most popular places to go to in<br />
all of Croatia. Known, for good reason, as the Pearl of the<br />
Adriatic, the city boasts high city walls, sublime renaissance<br />
architecture, and exciting nightlife.<br />
The five star luxury boutique Hotel More is perfectly<br />
sited on the water’s edge, with terraced suites<br />
that blend into the green hillside and an outdoor<br />
pool with the best view of the sunset in all of<br />
Dubrovnik. Each room or suite offers a sea or<br />
garden view, with air conditioning, exquisite<br />
bathrooms, and flat-screen TVs.<br />
But there’s something that Hotel More has that is<br />
completely unique. If you want to grab a burger or tortilla,<br />
or even the best morning coffee you’ve ever tried, in an<br />
unforgettable setting, you need to check out the Cave<br />
Bar. Set over three levels, you can escape the heat of the<br />
day and treat yourself among the unique rock formations<br />
in comfort.<br />
With elegant rooms, first-class service, and a fitness<br />
centre with hydro tub, there’s everything on site to make<br />
your stay as comfortable as possible. And if you want to<br />
cool off in the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea, you<br />
can relax by the bay with a cool drink from the terrace by<br />
the sea.<br />
Your adventure in Dubrovnik starts at Hotel More. Enjoy<br />
fine Dalmatian cuisine at Restaurant Tramuntana and<br />
Restaurant More (Mediterranean & International Cuisine),<br />
sumptuous cocktails in the Cave Bar, and the best sunset<br />
views in all of Croatia. You won’t be disappointed.<br />
Kardinala Stepinca 33<br />
tel + 385 20 494 200<br />
sales@hotel-more.hr<br />
www.instagram.com/<br />
hotelmoredubrovnik/<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
235
Greece<br />
thawards.com<br />
Thera, Greece<br />
236 237
From the hedonistic party haven of the Laganas strip to the protected sea turtle breeding grounds,<br />
Zakynthos, or Zante, has everything you need to get away from it all.<br />
ZAKYNTHOS |<br />
A SPECTACULAR<br />
ISLAND<br />
Getting In & Around<br />
One of the best-connected of the Greek Islands, Zakynthos can<br />
be reached by regular flights from London or by ferry from the<br />
mainland. Plus, because it’s only 40 km long and 20 km wide,<br />
you’re never that far away from where you want to be.<br />
Bus routes connect all parts of the island and taxis are available<br />
if you want some privacy, but for ultimate convenience, you can<br />
rent a car or scooter during your stay. Doing this means you can<br />
get to the most secluded spots on Zakynthos.<br />
Things To Do & See<br />
Home to one of the most iconic views in all of Greece, Navagio, or<br />
Shipwreck Beach, is only accessible by sea. It’s a unique cove on<br />
the west side of the island flanked on all sides by vertical cliffs, so<br />
you’ll need to hire a caïque, or traditional fishing boat, to reach it.<br />
It can get busy during peak season but there are plenty of other<br />
secluded beaches to visit.<br />
The crystal-clear turquoise waters that surround the island make<br />
it a swimmer’s paradise. A haven for scuba diving and other<br />
water sports, we recommend visiting Banana Beach during your<br />
stay. There are plenty of sunbeds to be found here, as well as a<br />
selection of beachside bars to quench your thirst in the sun.<br />
If you’re feeling in the mood for a party, the mile-long Laganas<br />
strip is the place to be seen. Packed with decadent nightclubs<br />
and bars, it’s the sort of place where you can forget yourself for<br />
the night and have a lot of fun.<br />
Don’t worry if your idea of a good time is something a little<br />
quieter, as Zakynthos caters for all types of holidays. For a funpacked<br />
family adventure, we recommend a visit to Tsilivi Water<br />
Park during your stay.<br />
Dining<br />
One of our favourite things about visiting Greece is the<br />
abundance of delicious, authentic cuisine on offer. Zakynthos<br />
is no exception. As you might expect on an island in the Ionian<br />
Sea, the fish and seafood are top notch and Spartakos Taverna<br />
tops the list for many visitors. Located right by the harbour in<br />
Zakynthos town, it serves up fresh calamari as well as traditional<br />
Greek meze.<br />
Accommodation<br />
Although there are plenty of affordable places to stay on the<br />
island, we were completely blown away by the five-star Olea All<br />
Suite Hotel. An adult-only hotel, it offers the ultimate luxury stay.<br />
238 239
Nefis <strong>Travel</strong> -<br />
Private Day Tours<br />
Greece | Private Tour Company<br />
Zakynthos is a Greek Island that’s offers so much for travellers whether you’re<br />
visiting for a cultural experience, history, the nightlife, beaches, or food<br />
you’ll be more than satisfied. To truly discover the Island is no easy feat and<br />
it’s often advised you find yourself a good travel agency. For you however,<br />
we don’t just recommend a a good travel agency, we recommend the<br />
best. That is Nefis <strong>Travel</strong>.<br />
Nefis <strong>Travel</strong> is the leading travel company on Zakynthos, with a wellearned<br />
reputation for attention to detail, authentic experiences,<br />
enjoyable tours, and a unique approach. Founded by Dutch<br />
native, Jackie Boots, her Zakynthian husband, Takis, and<br />
daughter Nefeli; Nefis <strong>Travel</strong> has been founded on a natural<br />
love and passion for the Island.<br />
Keen to show guests a more local, cultural, and<br />
somewhat alternative side to Zakynthos, Jackie set<br />
about designing tours built around her unique insight<br />
and challenges facing tourists. While these tours offer<br />
fantastic value, flexibility is a key tenet at Nefis <strong>Travel</strong><br />
and you can always discuss customising a tour to suit<br />
your needs. Fully tailor-made tours offer a fantastic<br />
opportunity to work with Jackie and the team at Nefis<br />
to put together your perfect trip while using their vast<br />
knowledge and experience.<br />
Tours cover beaches, hidden gems, sea life, cultural<br />
attractions, historical sites, gastronomy, natural scenery,<br />
and cruises. Services stretch beyond simply that of<br />
tours. At Nefis you’ll also find a whole host of areas<br />
covered such as proposals, wedding planning, romantic<br />
retreats, adventure activities, wellness holidays. At Nefis<br />
<strong>Travel</strong> things don’t just happen they make them happen.<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
Tel +30 2695048004<br />
240<br />
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The most visited of all the Greek Islands, picturesque Santorini has grown up on an extinct volcano that’s<br />
now home to beautiful beaches and exquisite restaurants.<br />
SANTORINI |<br />
A PERFECT<br />
GREEK ISLAND<br />
Getting In & Around<br />
The Greek Island of Santorini is the largest of the Cyclades<br />
in the beautiful azure blue Aegean Sea. There are two ways<br />
of getting there, depending on how much time you have to<br />
spare. The quickest is to hop on a four-hour direct flight from<br />
London that will land you on the eastern side of the island.<br />
If, however, the journey is more important to you than just<br />
getting there, you can take a slow ferry from the mainland.<br />
<strong>Travel</strong> around the island itself is made easy by a regular and<br />
inexpensive bus service and the towns are ideal for exploring<br />
on foot. You can rent a car or scooter, though, if you want to<br />
explore at your own pace.<br />
Things to See & Do<br />
When you’re on this island, it’s well worth a visit to the town of<br />
Oia at the extreme north of the island. It’s the place you see<br />
on most of the postcards and offers an absolutely stunning<br />
view of the caldera at sunset.<br />
We highly recommend viewing the iconic blue roofs and<br />
windmills scattered around the island that make Santorini<br />
such a desirable place to visit. For buzzing nightlife, the<br />
biggest town of Fira is the place to be.<br />
Dining<br />
Home to some of the oldest Greek vineyards, make sure<br />
to try the delightful dry white wine made from the local<br />
Assyrtiko grape. For a taste of authentic Greek cuisine, head<br />
to Anemoloos in Exo Gonia, in the centre of the island.<br />
Accommodation<br />
When you’re in Santorini, treat yourself to ultimate comfort<br />
at the Alma Libre suites which boast some of the best views<br />
anywhere on the island.<br />
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Santorini’s Luxury <strong>Travel</strong><br />
Greece | The Award for Excellence in Branding<br />
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Your Journey Starts Here<br />
Whether you’re visiting Santorini for a romantic break, private trip, or immersive<br />
experience, the team at Santorini’s Luxury <strong>Travel</strong> have something special for you!<br />
Offering up a whole host of tours built around your preferences, Santorini’s<br />
Luxury <strong>Travel</strong> is one of the island’s leading private tour providers.<br />
Tours and day trips cover the best places to see, the most eye-catching<br />
views, and exciting activities. With an experienced, knowledgeable,<br />
and friendly local guide, you know you’re in good hands. Popular<br />
tour options include sumptuous wine tours, visits to quaint<br />
villages, hiking up Prophet Elias Monastery, deluxe VIP<br />
transfers, sessions at any one of Santorini’s wonderful<br />
beaches, an enthralling helicopter ride, and a relaxing<br />
private boat cruise.<br />
Going beyond those mentioned above, couple’s<br />
activities can also be arranged such as massages,<br />
romantic hotels, candlelit dinners, and welcome<br />
baskets.<br />
So why not book your dream vacation?<br />
Simply call or email to begin planning.<br />
Santorini, Cyclades, Greece<br />
Tel +0030 2286 771168<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
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Alma Libre Suites<br />
Greece | Modern Guest House<br />
Santorini is a magnificent bucket list destination for most of us that only<br />
a few of us will really get to properly experience. For a truly authentic<br />
experience at the heart of Fira, we implore you to check in at the truly<br />
wonderful Alma Libre Suites.<br />
Located on the famed Caldera, the views, service, and<br />
accommodation at Alma Libre Suites will leave you more than<br />
satisfied. The history of the building dates back to 1758; it was<br />
only in 2017 that it was converted and completely renovated<br />
into an enchanting boutique guest house. The owner<br />
came up with the idea of opening the suites while<br />
revelling in the views from the roof of the building<br />
one day. The sheer breath-taking beauty of the<br />
scenery combined with his love and passion for<br />
the island led to the realisation that it needed<br />
to be shared. He felt liberated in such a place<br />
and wanted every soul to experience this<br />
– hence the name Alma Libre, which<br />
translates to Free Soul in Spanish.<br />
The suites are designed to promote a relaxed and tranquil<br />
ambiance. Amenities are plentiful, views are exquisite,<br />
and a modern flair is perfectly blended with a traditional<br />
Cycladic style. Yellow and red tones line the walls and the<br />
décor, complimenting the wooden floors.<br />
For accommodation, you have two luxurious suites to<br />
choose from. One is the stunning sea suite, made up<br />
of single bedroom and a sofa bed. It also comes with a<br />
private hot tub and a balcony. The second is the much<br />
more expansive volcano suite, which comes complete<br />
with two bedrooms, one of which is uniquely located in<br />
the attic room above. A hot tub is available, as well as<br />
lovely private pool.<br />
Both suites come complete with breath-taking views, a<br />
daily complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, satellite TV, mini bar,<br />
Nespresso machine, air conditioning, Bluetooth sound<br />
system, toiletries, and outdoor furniture. The service is<br />
of the highest quality: along with continued support and<br />
advice, a concierge is provided so that transfers, tours,<br />
and reservations can all be arranged.<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
Caldera, Fira, 84700 Santorini, Greece<br />
Tel +30 22860 36698<br />
WhatsApp: 6973 780 845<br />
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Angel Sailing Santorini<br />
Greece | Charter Company<br />
A<br />
sailing trip in Santorini is a wonderful experience. The serenity of the water,<br />
luxury of the vessel, and sheer beauty of the Island await all those lucky<br />
enough to go on such a trip. When it comes to securing a sailing trip, look<br />
no further: Angel Sailing Santorini are unmatched in quality, service, and<br />
efficiency.<br />
Charismatic skipper and founder George Makrigiannis is an<br />
experienced seaman who, in 2016, put his years of industry<br />
knowledge and passion into practice by setting up Angel<br />
Sailing utilising a magnificent 45 ft yacht. Since then,<br />
the company has gone from strength to strength –<br />
especially given the exciting focus on uncrowded and<br />
alternative locations, meaning quieter and more<br />
tranquil experiences.<br />
Tours can be divided into two main categories: semiprivate<br />
and private. Semi-private tours cater to up to<br />
eight passengers and are ideal if there are only a few<br />
of you. This small group size allows you to enjoy your<br />
own space. Private tours, on the other hand, involves<br />
you having the entire yacht to yourself (along with the<br />
crew), making them perfect for special occasions such as<br />
birthdays or honeymoons.<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
Vlychada, Santorini,<br />
Cyclades, Greece, 84703<br />
Tel +30 6932 735 521<br />
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Athiri Santorini<br />
Santorini, Greece<br />
Greece | Family Friendly Hotel<br />
For a family favourite holiday, you can’t beat the drop-dead<br />
gorgeous island of Santorini. For a family favourite hotel, you<br />
can’t be the stunning Athiri Santorini.<br />
Set in the hillside above the sea and just a few minutes’<br />
walk away from the restaurants and bars of Imerovigli,<br />
Athiri Santorini is perfectly placed for a quiet family<br />
holiday. The in-room continental breakfasts are a<br />
real highlight and will help you relax before a busy<br />
day of sightseeing.<br />
With superior double rooms and wellappointed<br />
family rooms to choose from,<br />
you’ll be glad to know that they all come<br />
with a private kitchenette, balcony,<br />
air conditioning, and coffee maker.<br />
Some family rooms even come<br />
with a private hot tub to relax<br />
in and enjoy stunning views<br />
of the caldera.<br />
Epar.Od. Firon-Ias, Imerovigli<br />
847 00, Greece<br />
Tel +30 22860 36230<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
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One of Greece’s amazing islands, Naxos, is quieter than Santorini but still packed with ancient charm and<br />
famous Greek hospitality.<br />
Go Island Hopping<br />
We think the best way to see Naxos and the hundreds of tiny<br />
islands around it is by boat. Hire a sailing boat for a private tour<br />
and discover Greece at its best. Visit picturesque Koufonisia<br />
for a stroll around the town, or simply jump into the turquoise<br />
waters of the Aegean to cool off. You can also visit places like<br />
Seagull Island, which are only reachable by sea.<br />
NAXOS TOP 5<br />
Take up Water Sports<br />
The two main resort beaches on Naxos, Plaka and St George,<br />
offer a wide range of water sports for the whole family. If you’re<br />
looking for a shot of adrenaline, rent a jet ski or go wakeboarding<br />
in the warm seas. If you fancy something a bit more relaxing,<br />
however, you can hire a stand-up paddleboard instead. The<br />
northern winds known as meltemia also make Naxos the<br />
ideal place to learn how to windsurf. Book lessons with<br />
experienced instructors at the Flisvos Surf Centre in Agios<br />
Georgios.<br />
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See the Island from its Highest Point<br />
Break out your walking shoes and prepare for the sight of your life. Mount<br />
Zas is the mythical birthplace of the ancient Greek god Zeus – and you can<br />
head up there to meet him if you’re feeling fit. Standing at just over 1,000<br />
m, it’s the ideal place to get a lay of the land and see the surrounding<br />
islands. There are two routes up the mountain, but only the most difficult<br />
passage passes by the cave where Zeus is said to have lived.<br />
Chill Out on the White Sands<br />
Nothing beats a relaxing trip to the beach; Naxos has some<br />
of the best we’ve ever visited. The west side of the island<br />
is home to Plaka beach, the longest white sand beach<br />
you’ll ever experience. Ideal for visits with the kids, take<br />
advantage of sunbeds, water sports, and beach bars. For<br />
the more adventurous traveller looking for something<br />
more serene, hit the beautiful natural beaches of Psili<br />
Ammos or Moutsouna on the eastern side of the<br />
island.<br />
Eat Like a Local<br />
It wouldn’t be a trip to Naxos without a dive into its unique culinary<br />
offerings. There’s plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from,<br />
but our favourite is Rotonda. Situated in Apeiranthos, it offers not just<br />
amazing food and cocktails but probably the best view in all of Naxos.<br />
Sit back and enjoy traditional moussaka or refreshing salads from the<br />
extensive menu. After a long climb up Mount Zas, we can’t think of a better<br />
way to spend an evening.<br />
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Naxos Island Tours<br />
Greece | Tailor-Made Tour Company<br />
Naxos is often overlooked as a tourist destination, usually in favour of the more<br />
famous nearby island of Santorini. However, Naxos is certainly worth a visit,<br />
especially if you’re interested in a more relaxed, authentic, and local experience.<br />
For this and more, there’s no one better than Naxos Island Tours!<br />
A specialist on hospitality for the island, Naxos Island Tours provide several<br />
quality services including private tours, excursions, transfers, boat<br />
chartering, outdoor activities, car rental, and workshops.<br />
Popular tours include an immersive Essence of Naxos FD Tour, a<br />
unique FD Round Island Tour, and a fun HD Hinterland of Naxos<br />
Tour. If you’d like a charter, there are several vessels to choose<br />
from. Or maybe you’d prefer an activity, a workshop, or even<br />
a culinary experience – worry not, as all and so much more<br />
can be arranged.<br />
In fact, tailoring a tour is a specialty for Naxos<br />
Island Tours, so simply get in touch and design<br />
your perfect Island Experience with a team of<br />
dedicated professionals.<br />
Chora Naxos<br />
84300, Greece<br />
Tel +30 6942662660<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
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Turkey<br />
thawards.com<br />
Ancient city of Istanbul<br />
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An ancient city of mosques and cathedrals built on the Bosphorus that divides <strong>Europe</strong> from Asia, the<br />
biggest city in Turkey is home to more than 15 million people. This exotic destination is full of exciting<br />
sights, sounds, and tastes to suit all budgets.<br />
ISTANBUL |<br />
GATEWAY<br />
TO THE EAST<br />
Getting In & Around<br />
A little under four hours away by plane from London, Istanbul<br />
Airport is one of the busiest in <strong>Europe</strong>. There are plenty of<br />
options when it comes to flying in, but if you’ve got a taste<br />
for adventure then you could trace the route of the Simplon-<br />
Orient-Express and go by train. Luckily, most of the major<br />
sites in this megacity are close enough to walk or take the<br />
tram.<br />
Things To Do & See<br />
In the city that straddles two continents, expect to be wowed<br />
by the impressive architecture that has built up over the<br />
nearly 2,000 years of history. We recommend visiting the<br />
Hagia Sophia mosque and discovering the subterranean<br />
wonders of the nearby Basilica Cistern while you’re there.<br />
Take a trip to the spectacular Blue Mosque and gaze at the<br />
thousands of hand-painted tiles and stained glass inside.<br />
When you’re done craning your neck, it’s time to check out<br />
the Grand Bazaar – arguably the world’s oldest shopping mall!<br />
Dining<br />
There’s a good reason Turkish food has made its way<br />
around the world. Its diverse flavours and textures mean<br />
there’s something to suit any palate. Enjoy a meze of grilled<br />
aubergine, artichoke, and olives before tucking in to an<br />
iskender or adana kebab, all while watching the boats sail by<br />
on the Bosphorus. Our favourite restaurant must be the Roof<br />
Mezze 360 for its views and warm welcome.<br />
Accommodation<br />
For an authentic experience and a slice of luxury in the heart<br />
of Istanbul, we can’t help but recommend the multi-awardwinning<br />
Richmond Istanbul, to date the only hotel operating<br />
in Istiklal Avenue, profiled in full on the next page.<br />
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Richmond Istanbul<br />
Turkey | Family Friendly Hotel<br />
The first and only hotel on Istanbul’s famed Istiklal Boulevard, the Richmond<br />
Istanbul boasts a prime location, stunning views, modern rooms, a<br />
pleasant ambience, fine dining, and unique architecture. For all those<br />
looking to venture into the heart of the city and revel in its culture, there<br />
are very few properties that can match the Richmond Istanbul.<br />
With over 100 rooms available, it’s fair to say you’ll find something<br />
to suit your taste. Rooms start with a quaint standard room<br />
leading right the way up to a spacious and luxurious<br />
Bosphorus Suite that comes complete with stunning<br />
city and river views. In between are triple, executive,<br />
and deluxe rooms to choose from. All rooms are<br />
pleasingly designed with a soft and inviting palette,<br />
loads of natural light, and minimalist décor. As a<br />
standard, all rooms come with Wi-Fi, satellite<br />
TV, air conditioning, a mini-bar, high-quality<br />
toiletries, a safety deposit box, tea and<br />
coffee makers, and lovely views of<br />
Istiklal Caddesi, the Bosphorus, or the<br />
Istanbul skyline.<br />
An amazing a la carte breakfast is served to guests each<br />
and every morning in a beautifully-designed breakfast<br />
dining room. Breakfast is varied, fresh, and thoughtfully<br />
prepared. Should you fancy a meal at any other time of<br />
the day, head on over to the onsite eatery, the Bistro<br />
Urbanist. This trendy Bistro is popular with guests and<br />
locals alike, serving as the ideal spot for a late-night dish<br />
or daytime snack.<br />
For business travel, the Richmond is a treat. The hotel<br />
offers up a whole array of exclusive and customisable<br />
business services with state-of-the-art tech and<br />
dedicated personnel. Whether it’s a small business<br />
meeting or much bigger conference, the Richmond has<br />
you covered.<br />
Istiklal St. No:227<br />
34430, Beyoglu<br />
Istanbul, Turkey<br />
Tel +90 212 252 54 60<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
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Konuk <strong>Travel</strong><br />
Turkey | Innovative Tour Company<br />
Turkey is a vast country filled with welcoming locals, beautiful natural<br />
landscapes, rich history, a vibrant culture, an exciting art scene, renowned<br />
culinary heritage, and ancient cities, of which Istanbul is renowned the<br />
world over. Getting the most out of your trip to the country is no easy<br />
feat when you consider its size, spread of attractions, and sometimes<br />
complex local bureaucracies. Worry not, however, as we have the<br />
perfect partner for all your Turkish travel needs: Konuk <strong>Travel</strong>.<br />
Konuk <strong>Travel</strong> is a new start-up travel company built on<br />
innovation, understanding, and experience in Turkey’s<br />
booming travel sector. Tours are designed to offer an<br />
enjoyable and satisfying experience without ever<br />
getting too taxing or rigid. Flexibility is important, with<br />
guest preferences and the option to customise<br />
being key cornerstones. Tours can last a day<br />
or multiple days and cover all the major (and<br />
some not-so-major) travel destinations<br />
across all of Turkey.<br />
One of the most popular tours available is the North Tour, also<br />
known as the red tour, to the wonderful region of Northern<br />
Cappadocia. This includes visits to the famed world heritage<br />
sites the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia, the Open-Air Museum,<br />
Deverant Valley, Love Valley, and Uchisar Historic Castle.<br />
Other fantastic tours to choose from include a Green Tour to<br />
Southern Cappadocia, an Antalya Tour that includes outdoor<br />
activities, a Konya Tour, and, for history lovers, a private Ertugrul<br />
Ghazi Tour.<br />
Within Istanbul we recommend the Private Old City Tour to<br />
some of the most well-known attractions. Expect an immersive<br />
and educational trip to the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi<br />
Palace, Basilica Cistern, Hippodrome, and the Grand Bazaar.<br />
Or if you’d like to get out of Istanbul for the day, why not take the<br />
Princes’ Islands Tour? Nestled about 20 km away from Istanbul<br />
are the idyllic Princes’ Islands. With Konuk <strong>Travel</strong>, you can take a<br />
relaxed trip and revel in all these wonderful islands have to offer.<br />
Other popular day trips from Istanbul include a daily Pamukkale<br />
Tour, Daily Ephesus Tour, and a multi-day Trabzon Unzungol<br />
Tour.<br />
Alemdar, Divanyolu Cd<br />
Ticarethane Sk. No:10/2<br />
34122, Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey<br />
Tel +90 539 593 78 11<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
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This peaceful village is fast becoming a popular tourist destination for those in the know. Whether you’re<br />
on an extended holiday or just dropping in for the day, the memories made here will stay with you for a<br />
long time.<br />
ŞIRINCE|<br />
A HIDDEN<br />
GEM<br />
Why is Şirince a Hidden Gem?<br />
Simply put, Şirince is overlooked because a lot of visitors to<br />
the area come to see the ancient city of Ephesus. This means<br />
Şirince feels almost like it’s off the beaten track despite easy<br />
accessibility. Expect an authentic feel with plenty of friendly<br />
locals and quaint accommodation.<br />
Getting In & Around<br />
Located in the southwest of the Izmir Province and just 8<br />
km away from the ancient city of Ephesus in Selçuk, Şirince<br />
is easily reached. You can take one of the regular minibuses<br />
from Selçuk bus station but, for longer stays, we recommend<br />
hiring a car. As cars are banned from the streets of Şirince<br />
itself, you’ll still need to do a bit of walking around.<br />
The Attractions<br />
Old traditions live on in this quiet corner of Turkey, but you<br />
might be surprised to find out that Şirince was originally a<br />
Greek orthodox settlement. Several Christian churches<br />
can be found in the village, complete with well-preserved<br />
frescoes from the Ottoman Empire.<br />
Best Time of Year to Visit<br />
The summer months in Turkey can get extremely hot, so<br />
you should consider visiting during the spring or autumn.<br />
Plus, because Şirince is close to the busy tourist centre of<br />
Ephesus, you can also beat the crowds by visiting during the<br />
off season.<br />
Dining<br />
This region is famous for wine making as well, with Şirince<br />
being known as the wine hub of Turkey. Visit some of their<br />
famous wine houses to try classic wine varieties as well<br />
as delicious local fruit wines. To soak up the day’s tasting<br />
session, try a dish of iskender. It’s sliced döner meat covered<br />
with a sumptuous and rich tomato sauce served in a freshbaked<br />
pita bread.<br />
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Terrace Houses Sirince<br />
Turkey | Cottages<br />
Tucked away in the heart of the Aegean is the picturesque, hilly village of Sirince. This<br />
quaint hamlet, located only 15 minutes from the magnificent site of Ephesus, boasts<br />
a quirky past, diverse heritage, welcoming local community, thriving agrotourism<br />
industry, and beautifully-restored traditional cottages. With Terrace Houses<br />
Sirince, you now have the perfect opportunity to stay in one of these wonderful,<br />
traditional homes.<br />
Through hard work, passion, and belief, owners Omer and Charlotte Samli have<br />
succeeded in restoring four cottages back to their former glory. The Fig House,<br />
Olive House, Grapevine House, and the Clockmaker’s Cottage are all elegant,<br />
spacious, and fully equipped. All four can be booked in their entirety, with the<br />
Clockmaker’s Cottage also available as two self-contained units.<br />
Fig House is a charming 19 th century home that was brought back from<br />
the brink. It can sleep up to six in two bedrooms and a living room sofa<br />
bed. It comes with one bathroom, a sun terrace, a lovely outdoor<br />
garden, a fireplace, and outdoor dining furniture.<br />
Olive House, on the other hand, is located in the heart of the<br />
village and is closer to local shops and restaurants. This<br />
house exudes elegance and what it lacks in outdoor<br />
space it makes it for in indoor living. Guests can expect<br />
a limestone bathroom, separate walk-in shower, cosy<br />
Sedir seating, and beautiful views of the village.<br />
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The Grapevine House, new as of 2021, is the largest of the three<br />
houses. It can accommodate up to six in two bedrooms and<br />
the living room. The bedrooms are ensuite, expansive, and offer<br />
fantastic views. This house was designed with rustic Turkish<br />
design and craftsmanship in mind, which shows at every level<br />
of the property.<br />
Finally, there’s the Clockmaker’s Cottage which, as the name<br />
suggests, was once the home of the village clock specialist.<br />
Rebuilt from almost complete ruin, this cottage is split into<br />
two parts. There’s the Hamam Suite on the ground floor and<br />
then the Harem Suite above, the interior styles of which are<br />
inspired by Ottoman design. Both suites can accommodate two<br />
and are ideally suited for couples who wish to be in the same<br />
accommodation but have their own private suites.<br />
A daily complimentary breakfast is included as part of the stay<br />
and is served at the famed local Terrace Café. The breakfast is<br />
home-made using only locally-sourced and fresh ingredients.<br />
Guests can also purchase food and snacks throughout the<br />
day as well pre-booked evening meals. The café is open all day<br />
during the spring and summer months serving delicious Turkish<br />
delicacies.<br />
Sirince Village 213 sokak No<br />
10 ,Selcuk . Izmir<br />
Tel +0090 532 263 79 42<br />
GET IN TOUCH<br />
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TRAVEL & HOSPITALITY<br />
AWARD WINNER<br />
2021<br />
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