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Fun Travels in Europe

Austria Belgium Czeck Republic England France Germany Greece Ireland Italy

Luxembourg Russia Sardinia Scotland Spain Switzerland Turkey Wales

NEWS (Please note: Countries, cities and towns follow after the NEWS)

AUSTRIA

Small Luxury Hotels (SLH) --

of the World ski destinations not offer travellers world-class skiing, but the “championship” level service, comfort and quality synonymous with the luxury brand. The following resort is just a taste of the breathtaking worldwide ski resort hotels that SLH has to offer ski aficionados: 

Kristiania Lech Hotel

Over-looking the pretty ski resort village of Lech in the Austrian Alps, Kristiania Lech was opened in 1968 by the gold medallist slalom skier Othmar Schneider and his wife. Since then, the hotel, now run by Othmar’s daughter, has been dedicated to providing the perfect home-base for skiers and guarantees an intimate and personal luxury experience. With the slopes literally at your doorstep and the knowledgeable guidance of the Ski Butler on hand, you can plan you skiing from dawn until dusk. Here you can enjoy the quintessential delights of a true European ski resort. At the end of a busy day, retire to the hotel and enjoy pre-dinner drinks in one of the hotel’s bars - sample excellent Austrian Malts, port and Schnapps before a delicious traditional meal complemented by fine local wines.

For more information, check web site www.slh.com/kristiania) (All ski lifts running)

BELGIUM

Bruges Various Museums Offer Superb Collections

One of the great charms of the museum collection of the City of Bruges is its splendid diversity: from the Flemish Primitives to contemporary art, from classic ‘fine arts’ to archaeological finds, furniture, silver, folklore… In short, something for everyone!

Groeninge Museum and Arents House

Artistic works from the 15th to 21st century are grouped in the Groeninge Museum and the Arents House.

Brugge Museum

is the museum platform for contemporary arts. The Bruggemuseum (Bruges Museum) is a general title encompassing all the different historical museums: Gruuthuse, the Welcome Church of Our Lady, the Archaeological Museum, the Gentpoort, the Belfry, the Town Hall, the Liberty of Bruges, the Museum of Folklore, the Sint-Janshuis Mill, the Koelewei Mill and the Guido Gezelle Museum. Here you can find a veritable treasure trove of art works and each collection tells the history of Bruges from a different point of view.

Hospitaalmuseum

is the collective name for two historical hospitals: the 8 century old Saint John's Hospital, which is now known as Memling in Sint-Jan museum and O.L.V.-ter-Potterie (Our Lady of the Potteries). Memling in Sint-Jan is famous for its collection of paintings by the great master of the Flemish Primitives, Hans Memling, while Our Lady of the Potteries is better known for its Baroque church and its outstanding silverwork.

Musea Brugge is the umbrella organization for 16 museums with diverse collections. The locations are subdivided into three groups: the GROENINGE Museum (Artistic Works), the HOSPITAALMUSEUM (historical hospitals with among others the Memling collection) and the BRUGGEMUSEUM (historical museums). Every year, almost 800,000 local and foreign guests visit one or more museums of the City of Bruges.

Musea Brugge is also responsible for Raakvlak (the intermunicipal archaeological service for Bruges and surrounding area) and for the Bruges cultural inheritance department.

CZECH REPUBLIC

Mandarin Oriental, Prague has launched an exclusive two-day Treasures of Prague package, priced at EUR 579 (approx. $800) per room per night. Featuring a guided tour of the newly revealed cultural riches of Prague Castle, with private limousine transfers, a champagne lunch at a palace, a memorable keepsake and a soothing Oriental foot massage.

Accompanied by an expert private guide, guests are taken on a day-long exploration of what once truly was a city within a city. After visiting the Castle’s most spectacular buildings such as the Gothic St. Vitus’ Cathedral and the Old Royal Palace, a champagne welcome and private catered lunch await on the terrace of the Lobkowicz Palace on the Castle’s eastern side, affording panoramic views of the city; this is followed by a tour of the Palace’s spectacular collections. The Palace, the only privately-owned building within the Castle walls, is the ancient domain of the Lobkowicz noble family whose history is closely tied to that of Prague and indeed, the Czech lands.

In an exclusive partnership with Mandarin Oriental, Prague, visitors who book the Treasures of Prague package will receive a special keepsake accompanied by a card personally signed by Prince William Lobkowicz, providing a lasting memento of their visit. The day will stylishly conclude with a Mercedes S-class limousine transfer back to the hotel and a refreshing Oriental foot massage at the Spa to soothe away any lingering signs of ‘cobblestone fatigue’.

For seven centuries, the Lobkowicz Princes were important political figures and equally significant patrons of art and music, amassing valuable collections of old master paintings, decorative arts, original musical scores and instruments and rare arms and armor. Presented in their ancestral home for the first time, the newly-opened exhibition (entitled the Princely Collections) includes  masterpieces such  as the  magnificent Haymaking by Pieter  Brueghel  the Elder, two world-renowned paintings by Canaletto, and a number of portraits by Velázquez. An installation focusing on music features the manuscripts of several of Beethoven’s symphonies dedicated to the 7th Prince Lobkowicz, as well as Mozart’s own re-orchestration of Haendel’s Messiah. The Princely Collections revives an important cultural site in the heart of Europe by increasing public access to some of the world’s greatest works of art.

Prague Castle is the city’s premier landmark and part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Towering above the city and within walking distance of Mandarin Oriental, Prague, it has served for centuries as the imposing seat of Czech kings and presidents. This unique architectural complex dating back as far as the 10th Century and consisting of multiple churches, palaces, burgers’ houses, medieval towers, courtyards and splendid gardens was the site of several dramatic events with a profound effect on European history. 

Rates for the two-day Treasures of Prague package start at EUR 579 (approx. $800) per room per night based on double occupancy; the rate includes breakfast but excludes 5% VAT. Additional nights are available.

Mandarin Oriental, Prague   

Mandarin Oriental, Prague is situated in a former Dominican monastery with origins dating back to the 14th Century. To this day, the building carries the features of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. The hotel’s 99 spacious guest rooms and suites offer refined residential ambience enhanced by original architectural detail. Equipped with the latest technology, the guest rooms’ design combines restrained elegance with subtle Asian touches. The hotel also includes a holistic Spa located in a former Renaissance chapel, the Essensia restaurant, and Barego bar.      

About Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is the award-winning owner and operator of some of the world’s most prestigious hotels and resorts, currently operating 20 luxury hotels with a further 16 under development in Riviera Maya, Mexico and Hainan Island, China (2007), Barcelona, Boston and Beijing (2008), Dallas, Chicago, Las Vegas, Macau, Marrakech, Turks and Caicos, Grand Cayman and Costa Rica (2009) and Guangzhou, Taipei and Paris (2010). In total, Mandarin Oriental now operates, or has under development almost 9,800 rooms in 21 countries with 16 hotels in Asia, 13 in The Americas and seven in Europe and North Africa.

ENGLAND

In recognition of its many international jet set guests, The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London has launched a new “Time Traveler” program to help ease the effects of traveling across different time zones, priced at GBP 210 (approx. USD 418).

The newly introduced “Time Traveler” program entails a 50-minute treatment in the morning between 7.30am and 9.30am, and a 50-minute treatment in the evening between 7.30pm and 9.30pm on the same day. The morning treatment begins with an invigorating Oriental Salt Scrub to overcome the sluggishness caused by jet lag by stimulating blood flow to the brain. Firm massage to the feet and lower legs follows to help combat fluid retention and deep vein thrombosis. Focus on the lymphatic system will help to reduce Oedema, the swelling caused by fluid retention often associated with air travel.  Focus on the circulatory system reinvigorates blood flow which will help combat deep vein thrombosis.  In the evening, the program ends with an hour’s soothing massage using aromatherapy oils to help bring about a serene state of relaxation thus aiding a peaceful night’s sleep as guests adjust to the new time zone.

Guests are also encouraged to arrive 30 minutes ahead of their treatment time to make full use of the Heat and Water oasis, access to which is provided at both stages of the “Time Traveler” program, in order to benefit from the healing powers of heat and water. The Heat and Water Oasis includes a Sanarium, Amethyst Crystal Steam Room, Vitality Pool, and Zen Colour Therapy Relaxation Area. The jet lag resolving “Time Traveler” program has been tailored to suit both guests retiring to the hotel’s sumptuous rooms, and local residents for whom limousine transfer can easily be arranged.

This program is subject to availability. For reservations, please contact The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London directly on +44 (0) 207 838 9888 or go to web site www.mandarinoriental.com/london.

K West Hotel

K West hotel is offering a My Time Spa package, ideal for those wanting to unwind after a hard days shopping, the package costs $265 per person and includes one night’s accommodation in a deluxe room, a 60 minute spa treatment, full English breakfast and unlimited access to K Spa.

Harvey Nichols Screening

You can even keep up the fashion theme while eating in London. Harvey Nichols will be screening the highlights of the shows just hours after they happen on the screens in the restaurant. Diners can therefore work on their spring fashion wish lists while tucking into breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea or just a glass of champagne.

Berkeley Hotel Pret-a-Prtea

How about some beautiful fashion that’s good enough to eat? The Berkeley Hotel offers Pret-a-Portea, a fashionista’s afternoon tea inspired after various fashion collections. The tea comes in the form of a delectable selection of miniature mouth-watering savory skewers, “taster” spoons, elegant canapés plus cakes and biscuits which are in the style of work from the world’s finest designers.

Donovan Bar

As for drinking, London is considered by many to have the most fashionable scene in the world with champagne and cocktail bars found throughout the capital. Many bars are launching their own fashion cocktails to coincide with London Fashion Week. The Donovan Bar at Rocco Forte’s Brown’s Hotel, for example, will be unveiling its latest collection of Fashion Cocktails in September which include The New York, The London, The Milan and The Paris.

Metropolitan Hotel's Lobby Lounge

In The Lobby Lounge at The Metropolitan hotel hosts The Lobbyists, a venue for after work drinks which has a different theme each month. During September the theme is fashion, where there will be cocktails created by the designers exhibiting at the hotel during London Fashion Week, various fashion exhibitions, and special guest DJ’s from the world of fashion spinning their favorite catwalk tunes.

Shopping Areas Abound

Fashionable shopping areas can be found throughout London, whatever styles or trends you are into, be it vintage, high street, designer or trendy. With over 40,000 fantastic shops to choose from, London’s streets can become your catwalk. It’s a shopaholic's dream come true and the perfect place to get the ultimate additions to your bursting wardrobe and ensure you are bang on trend.

ABOUT VISIT LONDON

Visit London is the official visitor organization for London. Its role is to promote London as the world’s most exciting city, targeting domestic and overseas leisure and business visitors as well as Londoners. Visit London works in partnership with the Mayor, the London Development Agency and the commercial industry. www.visitlondon.com.

Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London is proud to announce an exclusive arrangement for guests providing access to a private photo shoot with celebrated photographer Mary McCartney. To ensure exclusivity, availability will be limited to just ten guests as part of a luxury experience priced at GBP 20,000 (approximately 40,250 USD.) 

Highly sought after, Mary McCartney’s professional portrait work has included iconic commissions of such high profile individuals as Tony and Cherie Blair, Jude Law and Ralph Fiennes. At the beginning of this year, Mary was appointed official photographer for Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group’s ‘I’m a Fan’ brand campaign which features the hotel group’s celebrity ambassadors, such as Liam Neeson and Darcey Bussell, captured in their favourite locations.

During the course of a two night stay in one of the hotel’s luxurious feature suites, guests will be treated like royalty with fully chauffeured transfers, discreet access through the hotel’s Royal Entrance, indulgent pre-shoot spa treatments, and award-winning dining to top the experience.  

Terms and conditions:
Based on double occupancy, the ‘Mary McCartney Portrait Experience’ is priced from GBP20,000.00 (approximately 40,250 USD) + VAT and 5% discretionary service charge, and includes:
·         Two nights accommodation in a feature suite overlooking Hyde Park, with private butler
·         Full Champagne English Breakfast daily
·         Photo shoot with Mary McCartney
·         2 x Two Hours Advanced Time Ritual at The Spa at Mandarin Oriental to prepare
·         Round trip transfers to any airport or heliport within 75 mile radius of the hotel
·         6 hours chauffeur driven Mercedes OR full NCP parking
·         A la carte dinner for 2 in Foliage with 1 glass of house Champagne per person 
·         One bottle of vintage champagne, hand made chocolates and flowers in-room on arrival
·         Privileged hotel access through the Royal Entrance

Reservations can be made by contacting the hotel directly on +44 (0) 207 235 2000.

Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London - With the tranquillity of Hyde Park on one side and the sophistication of Knightsbridge on the other, the historic five-star Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London claims the city’s most perfect location. Breath-taking views of the park are offered from many of the sumptuous suites, as well as the hotel’s award-winning restaurants; Foliage and The Park, whilst Mandarin Bar is the epicentre of the capital’s nightlife with a wide range of cocktails, exotic nibbles and live jazz music until 2am. The Spa at Mandarin Oriental offers a haven of tranquillity in the heart of Knightsbridge where East and West blend in harmony, and a series of tailor-made treatments known as ‘Time Rituals’ draw on exotic therapies and philosophies from around the world.

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is the award-winning owner and operator of some of the world’s most prestigious hotels and resorts, currently operating 20 luxury hotels with a further 16 under development in Hainan Island, China and Riviera Maya, Mexico (2007), Barcelona, Beijing and Boston (2008), Chicago, Costa Rica, Dallas, Las Vegas, Macau, Marrakech, and Turks and Caicos (2009) and Grand Cayman, Guangzhou, Paris and Taipei (2010). In total, Mandarin Oriental now operates, or has under development almost 9,800 rooms in 21 countries with 16 hotels in Asia, 13 in The Americas and seven in Europe and North Africa.

Visit London has re-launched its web site as part of its preparations for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games and commitment to providing the best information about the capital to visitors and Londoners.

The new, fresh look has been designed to allow London’s visitors to navigate information quicker and easier, run more powerful searches, and book a range of products and services including hotel rooms, theater tickets and restaurants.

“As we prepare to welcome the world in 2012 it is important that we provide visitors with the best possible information and content,” Visit London Chief Executive James Bidwell said. “The Visit London website has been revitalized to ensure visitors get the most out of their stay in the capital and the most up-to-date information in one, easy to navigate location.

“This is only the first step in our digital plans in the lead up to London 2012. The next stages in the development of the Visit London website include the ability to post user-generated content, which will be available by the end of the year.”

A key highlight of the new Visit London site is the Explorer maps. London Explorer shows all the attractions, bars, restaurants, hotels in a defined area and allows users to search for what they’re looking for quickly and easily. A new ‘People like You’ section makes recommendations for different visitors – from family, youth and budget to luxury, gay and green.

“We’ve researched user requirements and built new features around what visitors tell us they want,” Visit London Digital Director Jose Adams said. “There are several additional new features in the pipeline focused on allowing users to personalize content, which will ensure that we continue to offer visitors the best online experience.”

London Goes Al Fresco

Now that the weather is warming up, it’s time to get out there and experience the fantastic al fresco dining opportunities London has to offer. While the sun is shining, grab your shades and head to one of the many cafes, bars or restaurants that have outside areas in which you can soak up the rays while enjoying some food and drink. These and many other suggestions can be found on the Visit London web site, www.visitlondon.com.

Even in central London there are a huge number of venues that are taking advantage of every outside space available to provide open-air areas for their customers. In Leicester Square alone there are almost 1,000 seats outside the world renowned hotels, bars and restaurants where you can watch the world and the stars go by. As the home of British cinema, Leicester Square is the perfect place to catch an afternoon matinee, followed by a cappuccino and conversation outside one of the many cafes and bars.

Roof terraces offer great outdoor eating and drinking combined with fantastic views of the city. No. 5 Cavendish Square opened its new roof terrace in June. The wrap-around terrace offers sumptuous views over Marylebone and the West-End and is the ideal way to escape the bustle of the streets below and enjoy a cocktail, after-dinner drink, or canapés. The rooftop at the Trafalgar offers similarly impressive views but this time over Trafalgar Square and the surrounding areas.

Terraces are also a great place to while away a few hours in the sun. Chelsea Physic Garden’s café has a terrace area with seating for 50 and a beautiful view across London’s oldest botanic garden. Perhaps you’ve had a day’s shopping and fancy a chilled glass of wine? The Sheraton Park Tower hotel in Knightsbridge is located just minutes’ walk from Harvey Nichols, Harrods and Sloane Street and has a Parisian-style café, The Terrace at Knightsbride, which is open from breakfast until late and has heaters, enabling guests to dine outside into the evening.

Perhaps one of the most well-known terrace restaurants is the OXO Tower top floor bar, where guests can enjoy extensive views of London as well as their imaginative bar menu and drinks list.

Along the Thames are a multitude of venues that take advantage of their waterfront location and have outside areas that offer magnificent views along the River Thames. The south side of the River offers a multitude of al fresco dining opportunities. Southbank and Bankside are both teaming with restaurants, bars and cafes in which to enjoy a snack or meal with family or friends. At Bankside, The Founder’s Arms pub has an outside terrace with spectacular views of the Thames. Alternative dining options in the area include Pizza Express and The Real Greek. In addition, the redevelopment of the 21 acre Southbank site has a pedestrian area bulging with bars and restaurants.

It doesn’t just have to be at the weekend when you can enjoy an outdoor lunch, there are many places, for example in the City, that have open air areas where workers can have a break from the office and get some fresh air whilst having a business lunch. Dion, situated near to St. Paul’s underground station, boasts of an award-winning wine and champagne list and has a newly extended outside seating area where customers can enjoy views of St. Paul’s Cathedral. Another option within the city is the bar at Addendum, at the Apex City of London Hotel.

Alternatively, you could just pack a picnic and enjoy one of London’s many parks. A third of London is made up of green land so you are never too far from a patch of grass on which to stretch out on. Central London parks include Regent’s Park, Hyde Park or St. James Park, alternatively try South London’s Richmond Park which comes complete with herds of deer, Victoria Park in East London, which is host to various fun fairs and music events over the summer or Regent’s Park in North London, which is just a stones throw from London Zoo.

Responding to demand, Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London is providing guests with services from a vetted list of leading wellness experts, offering the following: 

Nutrition Advice

Medical Check-Up

Yoga

Pilates

Tai Chi-Qi Gong

Personal Training

Building on the range of holistic treatments available at The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, the Spa’s concierge team will gladly build an overnight ‘Wellness Retreat’ from the above services, tailor-made to the needs of the individual. Equally guests are invited to request just one additional activity such as ‘Personal Training’ in the hotel’s state of the art gymnasium, ‘Tai Chi-Qi Gong’ in the fresh air and abundant green space of Hyde Park or a ‘Medical Check-Up’ in the comfort and privacy of a luxury room. Available all year round, this arrangement is ideal for guests looking for a bespoke health and wellness experience, rather than participating in a pre-structured group programme. 

Leaders in their fields, consultants lending their advice and expertise include Tai Chi-Qi Gong Third Duam Master, Tony Ulatowski, and acclaimed nutritionist Max Tomlinson. Tony Ulatowski has been practicing Tai Chi for over 20 years and is the British Tai Chi champion having been awarded a gold medal in ‘Stick Form’ and a silver medal in ‘Straight Sword’. Max Tomlinson combines practicing in Harley Street and Fulham Road clinics with guest speaking about natural therapies for UK television and writing for a number of the UK’s leading newspapers and magazines. 

The influence of The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, with its sincere understanding of wellness and desire to provide an inspiration to all its guests for lifestyle change, has spread deep into the hotel’s culture. Complimentary yoga mats and healthy fruit baskets are available in rooms, fresh power juices and dairy-free options are served in The Park restaurant, and around the clock access is provided to state-of-the-art cardiovascular equipment in the gymnasium.

Situated right on the very edge of Hyde Park and home to a spa regularly rated one of the best in the world, Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London is alone in its ability to offer a ‘rural’ Wellness Retreat in the comfort of luxury surroundings in the heart of London. Other activities to enjoy in Hyde Park include horse riding, swimming, tennis, roller-blading, roller-skating, rowing and cycling. 

Every effort is taken to ensure guests staying for a comprehensive ‘Wellness Retreat’ enjoy the optimal healthy experience and that they leave relaxed and restored, armed with expert tips on how to lead a healthier lifestyle. For best results, the consultants recommend booking two ‘Wellness Retreats’ at each end of a fixed period so that they may set guests’ goals, as well as measure and provide feedback and support on their results. 

Terms and conditions:

A two hour Time Ritual at The Spa at Mandarin Oriental costs from GBP200. Prices for additional Wellness Services range from GBP100. Room rates at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London start from GBP415 and suites from GBP675 excluding VAT and 5% discretionary service charge. It is recommended that enquiries are made as early as possible, please contact The Spa at Mandarin Oriental directly on +44 (0) 207 838 9888.

The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, London offers a haven of tranquillity in the heart of Knightsbridge that combines harmonious design elements with therapeutic rituals. It is a place where East and West blend in harmony, and a series of tailor-made treatments known as ‘Time RitualsTM’ draw on exotic therapies and philosophies from around the world. Guests can relax within the Spa’s separate male and female heat and water areas which include; a Sanarium, Amethyst Crystal Steam Room, Vitality Pool, and Zen Colour Therapy Relaxation Room. Operating hours are from 7am to 10pm daily, with treatments held from 7.30am to 9.30pm.

Reservations: +44 (0) 20 7838 9888.

Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London, a historic five-star hotel with 198 luxurious rooms and suites, boasts London’s most perfect location between tranquil Hyde Park and sophisticated Knightsbridge. Breath-taking views of the park are offered from many of the sumptuous suites, as well as the hotel’s award-winning restaurants; Foliage and The Park, whilst Mandarin Bar is the epicentre of the capital’s nightlife with a wide range of cocktails, exotic nibbles and live jazz music until 2am. The hotel is also home to the afore-mentioned spa.

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is the award-winning owner and operator of some of the world’s most prestigious hotels and resorts, currently operating 20 luxury hotels with a further 14 under development in Riviera Maya, Mexico and Hainan Island, China (2007), Barcelona and Boston (2008), Dallas, Chicago, Las Vegas, Macau, Marrakech, Turks and Caicos and Grand Cayman (2009) and Guangzhou, Taipei and Paris (2010). In total, Mandarin Oriental now operates, or has under development, 9,500 rooms in 20 countries with 15 hotels in Asia, 12 in The Americas and seven in Europe and North Africa.

Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London is delighted to offer fashion-focused guests a special shopping package; ‘Harvey Nichols 100’ – luxury overnight accommodation including a GBP100 Harvey Nichols gift certificate.

Situated directly opposite the hotel, this globally renowned luxury lifestyle store couldn’t be more perfectly located for guests wishing to shop during their stay. Deluxe hotel rooms on the ‘Harvey Nichols 100’ package provide tantalizing views across the boutiques of Knightsbridge and the offer of a late check-out allows dedicated shoppers to make the most of two full days’ retail exploration. 

Terms and conditions:

The ‘Harvey Nichols 100’ package is available from GBP499 and includes:

Accommodation for 2 people in a deluxe Knightsbridge room

A GBP100 Harvey Nichols Gift Voucher

Full English breakfast

Late check out subject to availability


Based on double occupancy, prices are exclusive of VAT and 5% service charge and valid until 30 December 2007, subject to availability. Reservations must be made ten working days in advance.

Reservations can be made by contacting the hotel directly on +44 (0) 207 235 2000, or through Mandarin Oriental’s worldwide sales and reservations offices or the Group’s direct on-line reservations service, www.mandarinoriental.com/london. 

WALKING iTOURS

Guests at The Milestone and ‘41’, two of Red Carnation’s five- star London properties in Central London, have long been accustomed not just to absolute luxury, but also to the last word in thoughtful extras. Now these last words have been added to by the shelfload, with a fabulous idea that will add enormously to guests’ experience of London.

Among the superb amenities in every room, guests will find a state-of-the-art Bose iPod docking station, with complimentary iPods available from reception. As well as being loaded with a massive selection of music from a wide range of genres and a children's audio book, these also include a fascinating selection of London audio walking guides.

Guests are invited to take to the streets, iPod in ear (couples can do the teenage lovers trick of a shared headset, but should watch out for the lamp posts), in order to find out all there is to know about a particular area or attraction. Each about two hours long, the walking tours available cover:

•         City of London – discovering the historic financial centre of Europe
•         Royal London – the palaces, parks, and parade grounds of Britain’s monarchs
•         Temple District – the special world of London’s fascinating and unique legal district
•         Banks of the Thames – from Millennium to Tower Bridge, a river in history
•         West End Night-Life – a vibrant evening jaunt from Piccadilly via Soho to Covent Garden
•         Westminster – the heart of London: Parliament, Whitehall, Downing Street, Trafalgar Square

Also available are expert guides to three of London’s most famous attractions – The Tower of London, The British Museum, and The National Gallery – to help visitors make the most of the myriad treasures each attraction contains. Although pre-loaded onto the iPods in English, the hotels are delighted to download guides in the language of guests’ choice wherever available.

This is a complimentary service to all guests, but to add to the attraction The Milestone Hotel in Kensington is offering a special Walk London deal as its perfect introduction to London. With a night’s accommodation, a glass of chilled Champagne and a fruit platter on arrival, English breakfast for two, a picnic hamper for two, and the use of the hotel’s iPod (with a brand new headset!) loaded with music and tours for the duration of the stay, prices, depending on room type, are from £280 to £800 per room, with extra nights available at special rates. In addition to the above, guests naturally also enjoy the wonderful luxury, comfort, and cuisine of one of Europe’s highest-rated hotels, including its incomparable 24-hour butler service.

For more information and Milestone reservations call the hotel directly at +44 (0) 20 7917 1000 or book online at bookms@rchmail.com.  For ‘41’ reservations call +44 (0)20 7300 0041 or book online at book41@rchmail.com.

For further information on Red Carnation’s stunning collection of five- and four-star luxury boutique hotels in London, Dorset, Geneva, Cape Town, and Palm Beach, visit www.redcarnation.com. Please note that the rates quoted above exclude VAT at the current rate of 17.5%.

Free booklet "Best of British Excellence"

Special one-time only offers and exclusive vacation experiences for Americans traveling to Britain this year are featured in a free booklet called Best of British Excellence. Available from the British Tourist Authority, these deals, available through a card which comes with the booklet, includes personal shopping tours, guided visits around museums and galleries, spa treatments, theater, and dining packages, plus transportation discounts.

The book identifies some of the finest shopping and food experiences throughout England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, among them noted stores and shops in London’s fashionable shopping districts, jewelry, glass and woolen workshops in Scotland, and a world-renowned Irish distillery. In London, cardholders will have a tutored tasting of traditionally made cheeses at Paxton & Whitfield, Britain’s oldest cheese monger and holder of two Royal Warrants; and a complementary tour of the museum and private archives of Smythson, famed for the design and manufacture of leather-bound books, accessories and personalized stationery.

There’s much more. Send for the booklet by contacting the British Tourist Authority, 551 Fifth Avenue, Suite 701, New York 10176 or call 1-877-899-8391.

Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park Offers Gentlemen In-Room Tailoring Service        

Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London is offering gentleman guests an exclusive in-room tailoring service by haute couturier ‘Billionaire Italian Couture’ Creative Director, Angelo Galasso. 

At no additional cost, Angelo Galasso, will provide guests of Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park with a personal measure and design consultation in their room or suite. As a mark of distinction, shirts tailored by Angelo Galasso for hotel guests will feature a discreetly embroidered gold fan, Mandarin Oriental’s logo. Guests wearing this shirt will subsequently be granted VIP access to the exclusive ‘Billionaire Club’ in Porto Cervo, Sardinia, Italy. Guests will also be entitled to a guaranteed express five week delivery on made-to-measure suits and shirts (usually ten weeks).    
              

A collaboration between Formula One businessman Flavio Briatore and fashion designer Angelo Galasso; Billionaire Italian Couture was established in 2005 to offer haute couture to men. The couture house tailors slick, expertly hand-made suits, shirts, shoes and accessories in luxurious fabrics with obsessive detail in vibrant and classic colours, appealing to both the sartorially classic and the adventurous. Tailored shirts from Billionaire Italian Couture cost from GBP 420 (approximately USD 840) and tailored suits from GBP 2,600 (approximately USD 5,200).

Billionaire Italian Couture Creative Director, Angelo Galasso, said: “I myself have stayed at Mandarin Oriental hotels around the world and know their passion for exceeding guests’ expectations. This service will appeal to those guests who desire the very best in life, and for it to be delivered right to their door.”

General Manager, Christoph Mares, said: “This is the latest in a range of exclusive services we offer guests; experiences they could not find elsewhere. We can open stores outside of normal hours, arrange tours and lessons with experts in their field, and now – one of the finest men’s haute couturiers will consult with our guests in the comfort of their own rooms.”

Terms and conditions:

This offer is part of a range of Exclusive Services available only to guests staying at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London. Room rates at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park start from GBP415 and suites from GBP675 excluding VAT and 5% discretionary service charge. It is recommended that enquiries are made as early as possible.

Reservations can be made by contacting the hotel directly on +44 (0) 207 235 2000, or through Mandarin Oriental’s worldwide sales and reservations offices or the Group’s direct on-line reservations service, www.mandarinoriental.com/london. 

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is the award-winning owner and operator of some of the world’s most prestigious hotels and resorts, currently operating 20 luxury hotels with a further 14 under development in Riviera Maya, Mexico and Hainan Island, China (2007), Barcelona and Boston (2008), Dallas, Chicago, Las Vegas, Macau, Marrakech, Turks and Caicos and Grand Cayman (2009) and Guangzhou, Taipei and Paris (2010). In total, Mandarin Oriental now operates, or has under development, 9,500 rooms in 20 countries with 15 hotels in Asia, 12 in The Americas and seven in Europe and North Africa.

Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London Pretty in the City

Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London has launched ‘Pretty in the City’ an indulgent room package that includes a Daniel Hersheson Blow Dry and Chanel Make Up application, in the comfort and privacy of a sumptuous hotel room.
Allowing guests to sink back and savour every moment cocooned within their luxurious room, a bottle of Moët & Chandon champagne will be placed on ice while hair and make up are teased into perfection by a Daniel Hersheson Hair Stylist and Chanel Make Up Artist. Opulent Victorian furnishings, swathes of rich satins and silks, white orchids, indulgent bath accessories, state-of-the-art entertainment systems and the legendary Mandarin Oriental service on tap, provide the perfect setting for this pampering experience.

While the ideal service for guests heading out to attend a glittering, high profile occasion, guests need not leave the hotel to make the most of their glamorous look. The stylish Mandarin Bar is the buzzing epicentre of Knightsbridge nightlife, serving cocktails accompanied by live jazz music until two in the morning. Equally popular, guests may dine at the award-winning Foliage, offering seasonal modern European cuisine in a classic contemporary setting, with stunning views over Hyde Park and immaculate Mandarin Oriental service.

After a fabulous night out, guests can look forward to relaxing in the Spa’s Heat & Water Oasis, a calming and reviving area consisting of a Sanarium, Vitality Pool, Amethyst Crystal Steam Room and Zen Colour Therapy Relaxation Room. For the ultimate in relaxation, The Spa at Mandarin Oriental offers treatments where East and West blend in harmony in a haven of tranquillity.

Terms and conditions:

Based on double occupancy, the ‘Pretty in the City’ programme is priced from GBP 499.00 + VAT, (approximately USD 998)and includes:
·                    Accommodation in a deluxe king bedded room for one night
·                    Full English Breakfast
·                    One bottle of Moët & Chandon champagne
·                    A full in room makeover by a Chanel Salon makeup artist, per room
·                    In room Blow Dry by a Daniel Hersheson Salon stylist, per room

Rates for the ‘Pretty in the City’ program are based on double occupancy, exclusive of VAT and 5% discretionary service charge, and is subject to availability. Reservations must be made at least 24 hours in advance, and can be made by contacting the hotel directly on +44 (0) 207 235 2000, or through Mandarin Oriental’s worldwide sales and reservations offices or the Group’s direct on-line reservations service, www.mandarinoriental.com/london.

FINLAND

More soon

FRANCE

For a romantic way to usher in the new year, travelers can escape to the stunning Château de Bagnols in the heart of France’s Beaujolais wine country, set among scenic vineyards, forests and rolling hills.  With its towers, moat, honey-colored stone known as pierres dorées and entrance across a drawbridge, Château de Bagnols is one of France's prominent historic monuments and a unique luxury hotel. Guests can snuggle up with a loved one in front of one of the Château’s grand fireplaces, while enjoying a glass of the region’s finest. Château de Bagnols’ New Year in Beaujolais package includes:

For further information and reservations check the Rocco Forte Hotels web site at www.roccofortehotels.com or call The Leading Hotels of the World at 1-800-223-6800.

Rocco Forte Hotels was established in 1996 to create a collection of luxury hotels in Europe. The hotels have individual styles ranging from traditional to contemporary, with each hotel reflecting its nationality and location. The collection is linked together under the Rocco Forte Hotels brand, which guarantees attention to detail, quality and service delivery.

The Rocco Forte Hotels collection includes:
- Hotel de Rome, Berlin
- Hotel de Russie, Rome
- Hotel Savoy, Florence
- The Balmoral, Edinburgh
- The St David’s Hotel & Spa, Cardiff
- The Lowry Hotel, Manchester
- Hotel Astoria, St Petersburg
- Hotel Amigo, Brussels
- Brown’s Hotel, London
- Villa Kennedy, Frankfurt
- Château de Bagnols, en Beaujolais (managed on behalf of Lady Hamlyn)

Chateau de Bagnols Villa Rentals

Want to vacation in sheer luxury? Think aboiut renting an entire 21-room villa and invite a few friends at Château de Bagnols, for only $40,000 - $72,000

Château de Bagnols, with its dazzling views of orchards, vineyards, forests and the rolling green hills of the Beaujolais countryside, is considered France’s finest five-star deluxe château-hotel. The current owner, Lady Helen Hamlyn, discovered it in 1987 in a state of disrepair, and over a five-year period hired 400 specialist builders and craftsmen to restore and convert it into a hotel, now managed by Rocco Forte Hotels. This 13th century estate, with its honey-colored towers, moat and drawbridge entrance, is the perfect place to experience history first-hand and relax in luxury. The hotel’s 21 rooms and suites, adorned by antique tapestries, have been lovingly restored and feature original historic wall paintings. There are plenty of activities outside the Château such as walking, running or cycling through the trails that wind through the vineyards, horseback riding or golfing at one of the three golf courses that are within close proximity to the hotel. 

Enjoy Rocco Forte’s 13th century Château de Bagnols in its entirety, with an exclusive rental package for your family and friends, and spend an unforgettable Christmas together. Also, visit the traditional Christmas markets of the nearby city of Lyon with transfers and a guide.

The rate is $74,298 based on the exclusive use of the Château for two nights with up to 42 guests. Conversion rate to American Dollars as of November 13, 2006 is subject to changes. To purchase, call Château de Bagnols Reservations +33 4 74 71 40 00, or email info@bagnols.com.

A Tour of rungis, the world’s largest market and true belly of Paris

Situated on the outskirts of Paris, not far from Orly airport, the Rungis market is the largest of its kind in the world. Here is where Paris’ best meals begin; and for many critics the difference between a mediocre meal and something otherworldly starts with Rungis and a chef’s ability to secure the finest ingredients.

To learn more about Context visit web site www.contexttravel.com

Hotel Fouquet's Barrière, Paris‚ latest gem on the Champs Elysées, is also home to the equally spectacular U Spa - a calm oasis featuring a cutting edge fitness center, an aqua slimming trail, six massage and cosmetic treatment rooms, a steam room, sauna, hammam and one of the largest indoor hotel swimming pools in the city. In order to indulge in what the U Spa has to offer, Hotel Fouquet's Barrière is now offering guests a new deluxe two-night spa package˜fittingly named "Sparis"˜which includes the following:

Personalized spa program with the choice of two Terraké ritual signature treatments (Terraké products are from France and exclusively used at Fouquet's Barrière)

"Fitness Breakfast": hot drinks, organic egg white omelet, fresh fruit or vegetable juices, dried fruits, soy milk and low-fat or soy yogurt, bread assortment and more...

"Fitness Lunch": healthy yet tasty options such as a smoked chicken and endive salad with pecan vinaigrette or a fresh crab salad

Special Terraké kit in the room˜includes an exfoliant, detox gel, vitamin-rich cream and the choice of a mask or serum

Luxurious robes in the room

40 minute personal training session with the hotel's fitness expert

The package is based on double occupancy and is priced at Euro 2,312 (approx. $3,050 US Dollars) for two nights and Euro 1,156 for each additional night.

A wide array of innovative and exotic treatments is offered at the U Spa, such as the Red Liana Slimming Treatment, where the body is wrapped in an intensely scented Peruvian red liana and Amazonian berry paste, or the Primeval Sea facial which uses Pacific red seaweed and Atlantic marine extracts to achieve deep, anti-aging hydration. Numerous types of massages, baths, manicures and pedicures, make-up application and waxing procedures are offered as well.

Located where the Champs Elysées meets Avenue Georges V, this five-star-plus hotel opened its doors November 2006 and is the first "palace"-style hotel to open in Paris in almost 80 years˜since the George V was unveiled in 1928. A unique combination of modern-chic and fin-de-siécle grandeur, Hotel Fouquet's Barrière exudes an intimate and posh ambiance that caters to all types of clientèle. Luxurious materials of velvet, mahogany, marble, silk and embroidered leather fuse beautifully with high-tech digital equipment - such as wall mirrors that magically transform themselves into televisions - and a special emphasis is placed on service, with personal butlers assigned to each guest upon arrival.

For more information on Hotel Fouquet's Barrière, visit web site www.fouquets-barriere.com

Context Paris, a network of scholars living in Paris who organize weekly walking seminars for the general public, announces the spring launch of a series of lectures and special site visits geared specifically toward English-speaking residents and regular visitors to the city.

The events within the “Out of Context Series” include unique opportunities to visit sites normally closed to the public with curators, architects, and art historians intimately connected with them.

GERMANY

Live Like a King, Spend as a Pauper

Castles -

former hunting lodges and beautiful manor homes have been turned into bed and breakfast places and even youth hostels. All these castles are pleasant, historic and non-expensive getaways for everybody and definitely a good bargain. Many of these are hidden, but can be accessed through their associations.

The castles and monasteries, manor houses that have joined the Culture and Castles Association, a group of aristocratic families opening up their properties to the public, stand out due to their remarkable authenticity - and they provide timeless accommodations for great value, starting at 60 Euro per night. The services range from bed and breakfast, holiday apartments and wedding facilities to dreamlike locations for meetings and special festivities. www.culture-castles.de

Along the Castle Road, which expands over 600 miles from Mannheim/Heidelberg to Prague, some of the over 70 castles, palaces and castle ruins have been turned into hotels and are offering comfortable and fairy-tale like accommodations. For centuries the buildings have survived the vicissitudes of history and stand as reminders of emperors, kings and princes, of poets and thinkers, robber knights and romantic tales of chivalry. www.burgenstrasse.de

Youth hostels in castles are the essence of great value with a unique experience.

Stahleck Castle -

www.jugendherberge.de in Bacharach near the river Rhine is Germany's prime example of spending like a pauper but living like a king. This 11th century castle houses today one of Germany's top youth hostels with plenty of beds, a warm welcome, and an original medieval view. Prices for an overnight stay can be as low as 20 Euro. Other popular youth hostels can be found in the castles of Nuremberg above the city center www.jugendherberge.de

Altena --

near the Ruhr region www.jugendherberge.de, Ehrenbreitstein near Koblenz www.jugendherberge.de, and Rothenfels in the Main valley www.jugendherberge.de

Regional Focus: Baden Wuerttemberg and its Castles

The state of Baden Wuerttemberg in the southwest of Germany is home to many of the countries finest palaces and the birthplace of its most powerful dynasty: the Hohenzollern, who ruled Prussia and Germany for many centuries. Castles in Baden Wuerttemberg can not only be visited, they also serve as hotels offering their guests truly royal comfort and an unforgettable stay.

A luxury getaway is the

Castle-Hotel Buehlerhoehe.

The Five-Star-Hotel just outside of Baden-Baden is nested at an altitude of 850 meters, overlooking the surrounding wineries. With luxury accommodations, gourmet restaurants and unique flair, this castle hotel is one of Baden Wuerttemberg‚s shining stars and promises an unforgettable stay. www.buehlerhoehe.de

Along the castle road lie other unique hotels: A romantic stay in a real fortress promises

Castle Guttenberg.

Situated on a mountain top overlooking the river Neckar, the guest will not only sleep safe, but comfortable in this building from the 13th century. The castle has a rustic charm and invites the guides to medieval feasts and fares.
www.burg-guttenberg.de

Liebenstein -

the castle hotel is a special treat for all golf-players with its own 27 hole golf course. The castle was build in the 12 century and is situated in close proximity to the river Neckar. With its 24 rooms the hotel promises an intimate experience with personal service. www.liebenstein.com

Other castle hotels in Baden Wuerttemberg are

Staufeneck www.burg-staufeneck.de, Haigerloch <http://news.cometogerm

Reinach www.schlossreinach.de-

where guests can enjoy excellent meals, relax and indulge in the romantic surroundings.

From the castle hotels you can take trips to the impressive main castles of the Hohenzollern. The crown of the Prussian kings can be visited in Hohenzollern Castle, a majestic fortress overlooking its environment from the top of a mountain. Castle Sigmaringen, the Hohenzollern's former seat on the Danube is also a major landmark. The castle of the princes of Hohenzollern, stands high above the Danube on a white Jurassic limestone spur. All the Castles of the Hohenzollern can be discovered by following the scenic Hohenzollern route. Over a distance of 230 km it takes you through the countryside and to many sights that once made up "Hohenzollern country". The route starts from the Neckar valley in the north and runs down almost as far as Lake Constance in the south, traversing the Swabian Alb.

Reopened last year, the Baroque castle of Mannheim is the pride of the region. Built in 1720 the castle has a long and turbulent history, being destroyed and rebuild several times. www.schloss-mannheim.de

For more information on castles in the state of Baden-Wuerttemberg please visit www.tourism-bw.com. An overview of all castles in Baden-Wuerttemberg can be found on www.schloesser-magazin.de.

Heritage Feature: German Architects in America

Their marks are visible all over American cities and stand immortal evidence for the impact German immigrants had on the United States. The Brooklyn Bridge and the Met Life Building in New York, the Smithsonian in Washington DC, the Liberty One Tower in Philadelphia and the General Motors building in Detroit are national landmarks were planned by German architects, including Adolf Cluss, Johann August Roebling, Albert Kahn Helmut Mies van der Rohe and Helmut Jahn have had a major impact on the architectural landscape in the US.

Adolf Cluss was born in Heilbronn in southwestern Germany. In his twenties he became friends with Karl Marx and joined the Communist movement. After the failure of the German revolutionary movement in 1848, Cluss left for America. He settled in Washington D.C., where he became a major personality among the capital‚s architectural scene. Cluss is famous for his signature red brick style. His most famous construction though is the Smithsonian Arts and Industries Building on the National Mall. www.germanoriginality.com

Johann August Röbling was born in Mühlhausen in the state of Thuringia and came to America in 1831 with his brother. After a few years of unsuccessful farming in Philadelphia, he got a job as an engineer. He created a wire rope system which he then integrated into all of his suspension bridges. His most important construction was the Brooklyn Bridge across the East River in New York - crossed daily by thousands of commuters and tourists. www.germanoriginality.com

Albert Kahn immigrated to the United States in 1880, arriving in Detroit without any promise of fame or fortune. At the age of 15 he moved to Chicago, where he started to work, first without pay, for the architectural firm of Mason and Rice. In 1895, Albert Kahn founded his own architectural company "Albert Kahn Associates." Major works of his company include Ford Motor Company‚s Highland Park, the Art Deco Fisher Building in Detroit as well as the General Motors Building.
www.germanoriginality.com

Walter Gropius is sometimes called the father of modern architecture and design. Famous for founding the Bauhaus, he came to America via London and taught at Harvard. The home Gropius designed for himself in Lincoln, Massachusetts became a museum and National Historic Landmark. After he retired from Harvard, he continued to design. Among his later works was the Pan Am (now, Met Life) Building in New York City. www.germanoriginality.com

Ludwig Mies van der Rohe was a pioneer and master of modern architecture and the last official head of the Bauhaus School before it was closed in 1933. His structures make use of modern materials such as industrial steel and plate glass to define austere but elegant spaces. The architect emigrated to the U.S. and became the director of the School of Architecture at the Illinois Institute of Technology. He is famous for iconic works such as the Farnsworth House in Plano, Illinois and the Seagram Building on New York‚s Park Avenue. www.germanoriginality.com

Helmut Jahn followed in Mies‚ footsteps and emigrated from Germany in 1966 to study at the Illinois Institute of Technology. Some of his better known creations include McCormick Place in Chicago and One Liberty Place in Philadelphia. In 1991 he was chosen as one of the Ten Most Influential Living American Architects by the AIA. Jahn also designed the new built Potsdamer Platz in the center of Berlin.
www.germanoriginality.com

History is Alive in the Castles of Germany's Magic Cities

Palaces and castles in Germany are all original. There is not just a handful of well-preserved ones, but several hundred from all epochs and of every genre. Taking a quick spin through Germany's nine Magic Cities from Munich in the South to Hamburg in the North, many of the castles host great museums where visitors can explore the past or discover something new.

The City of Munich boasts various glorious palaces, but Nymphenburg, formerly the summer residence of the Bavarian Wittelsbach Dynasty, with its museums is at the top of the city's sights. Among its attractions are King Ludwig I's Gallery of Beauties and the great Hall with lavish Rococo decoration. The Marstallmuseum houses a collection of historic state coaches and gala coupés, ceremonial sleighs and riding equipment. The Porcelain Museum, also called the Bäuml collection, documents the development of the Nymphenburg Porcelain Factory from its foundation in 1747 until 1920. The hunting lodge Amailienburg, located in the Nymphenburg Park, is an exquisite example of rococo and was a present from Elector Karl Albrecht to his wife Amalia. In downtown Munich, the Residenz, the former main castle of the Wittelsbachs, houses fascinating attractions, such as the Antiquarium. The castle has the largest secular Renaissance interior north of the Alps, and the treasury shows Bavaria´s crown jewels. The Residenz had grown from a small moated castle in 1385 to the present castle complex that was finished in 1918. www.muenchen.de

In Stuttgart, the Old Palace stands on the site where Duke Luitolf of Swabia once grazed his horses - the name Stuttgart and the city's coat of arms come from the old German word Stutengarten meaning a stud. With its cloistered courtyard, the palace reflects the splendor of the former ducal town. Nowadays it is home to the Württemberg State Museum where the crown jewels remind visitors that Württemberg was once a kingdom. www.stuttgart-tourist.de

Close to Stuttgart is the residence castle in Ludwigsburg, which was originally built by Duke Eberhard Ludwig of Württemberg, the uncle of Carl Eugens father. This castle to the north of Stuttgart, originally a hunting lodge completed by 1733, is one of Germany's largest and most magnificent baroque palaces consisting of 18 buildings set in a 32 hectare park. The castle grounds today are home to the porcelain factory founded in 1758, the garden show ŒBlooming Baroque‚ and the renowned Ludwigsburger castle festival taking place every summer. www.schloss-ludwigsburg.de

Dresden is home to the Zwinger Palace, a lovely baroque building in the heart of the old quarter. It is one of Europe's foremost late-baroque buildings. The Crown Gate with its golden dome has become a famous Dresden landmark. Not only the building itself is impressive, but also the exhibitions housed in the palace's twelve world class museums. www.dresden.de

On the occasion of the city's anniversary in 2006, the Historic Green Vault, the former treasure chamber of August the Strong, has opened its doors in the West Wing of the Palace. Extensive restoration work and partial reconstruction allow the historic interior to shine in new splendor. In harmony with the festive architecture, 3,000 artworks are presented standing freely against a background of richly embellished and mirrored display walls and on ornamental tables. www.dresden.de

Located in the upscale Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf district in West Berlin, Charlottenburg Palace was once the summer residence of Prussian kings. The 300-year baroque palace is the largest and most elaborate of the Hohenzollern residences in Berlin. Across from the palace, two historical buildings designed by King Friedrich Wilhelm IV and built by his star architect Stüler, will present major art collections in early 2008: From Spring 2008, the Scharf-Gerstenberg Museum will be open in the Eastern Stülerbau, with a permanent exhibition on surrealism, featuring over 250 masterpieces portraying the history of Surrealism from Piranesi to Dalí. In the Western Stülerbau, Heinz Bergguen‚s collection "Picasso and his Time" will reopen in its extended exhibition space in the spring of 2008, displaying over 160 masterpieces of classic modern art by Picasso, Klee, Cezanne and van Gogh and others. www.smb.spk-berlin.de

In Frankfurt the Emperor's Hall inside the Roemer was once the site of the coronation banquets of German emperors. Although not a castle, it was here where all the kings, dukes and other high-ranking noblemen got together in and elected the Emperor and even established the first democracy in 1848. Today visitors can see the room where the Holy Roman Emperor celebrated after getting elected. Its walls were lined with the 19th Century portraits of 52 German Emperors beginning with Charlemagne and ending with the last Emperor Franz II. www.frankfurt-tourismus.de

Further west, in Düsseldorf, Elector Karl Theodor built his summer residence Castle Benrath in the 18th century. The remarkable ensemble of palace and park forms an architectural synthesis of great cultural-historical importance. The spacious park with a mirroring pond, an English landscape park and French baroque garden invites visitors for a stroll. But in the castle itself there is more to discover: The Natural History Museum in the west wing was opened in 1929 and is still open to the public. The Corps de Logis is in the central building which was erected for the Palatine Elector Carl Theodor and can as well be visited. The east wing houses the Museum for Garden Art and its exhibition ranges from the villas of Greek and Roman history to the Italian Renaissance. www.duesseldorf-tourismus.de

Right outside of Cologne the Augustusburg palace and Falkenlust hunting lodge are amongst the most impressive princely residences in Germany, and have been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site sice 1984. Set in 74 hectares of parkland, designed by Girard and Lenne, the foremost late baroque and rococo buildings were built at the beginning of the 18th century by the archbishop of Cologne, Clemens August of Bavaria of the Wittelsbach family. Today the Augustusburg Palace, which was the favorite residence of the archbishop, can be visited all year long and is also home to the most important and comprehensive motorbike collections in Europe. The museum focuses on motorcycle history boasting a wealth of unique exhibits. Falkenlust has been open to the public as a museum for falconry since 1974. The falconer's daily life is presented in a recently fitted-out falconer's workroom. www.augustusburg.eu

Further north, Hannover was the seat of Hannoverian kings as well as to the House of Guelph. The baroque gardens of Herrenhausen are among the largest and most important baroque gardens in Europe today. The unique gardens are a wonderful backdrop for the 'Festival Weeks' in Herrenhausen featuring concerts and musical performances. The International Fireworks Competition during the summer time is the fifth biggest in the world. Marienburg Castle, which is nowadays the residence of King Ernst August of Hannover and his wife Caroline, is located half an hour south of Hannover. It is open to the public for guided tours as well as concerts. www.hannover-tourismus.de

In Hamburg the classical Jenisch house was built at the beginning of the 19th Century and today serves as a branch of the Altonaer Museum. It is located in the beautiful Jenisch-Park beside the river Elbe, and displays historic examples of upper middle class home furnishings from the 16th-19th Centuries in 14 exhibition rooms on several floors. Among them are impressive halls for prestige purposes, which are decorated in the Classical and Biedermeier styles, as well as many pieces of furniture, paintings and crafts from the late renaissance period. The beautiful art nouveau furniture is also worth seeing. www.hamburg-tourism.de

MANDARIN ORIENTAL, MUNICH COMPLETES ROOMS RENOVATION

Mandarin Oriental, Munich has completed a comprehensive renovation of all 48 guest rooms and 25 suites and an upgrade of the exterior facade, designed to maintain the hotel’s dominant position in the marketplace.

Highlights of the refurbishment showcase elegant, contemporary design using the finest woods and rich fabrics with touches of Asian style. All guest rooms feature sleek cherry wood furniture in neo-Biedermeier style, with subtle Asian influences reflecting the Oriental heritage of the luxury hotel group. In addition, state-of-the-art entertainment such as Bang & Olufsen flatscreen televisions with over 600 channels, as well as seamless customer-centric technology systems, a hallmark of Mandarin Oriental hotels worldwide, is available throughout.   

The two exclusive Mandarin and Oriental Suites benefit from new conservatories, created by incorporating the original patios, affording an airy, light-flooded atmosphere and unique views of the cityscape and landmarks. Each suite also contains a variety of striking Asian objets d’art .

Michael Ziemer, General Manager of Mandarin Oriental, Munich, commented on the refurbishment: “The elegant and sleek design of the new interiors and the best of all modern conveniences, combined with Mandarin Oriental’s highly individualized service, provides our guests with a delightful experience.” Ralf Clausen of CM Design, was the lead architect responsible for the project.

Mandarin Oriental, Munich

Centrally located, Mandarin Oriental, Munich is a haven of Neo-Renaissance charm and elegance, providing the highest levels of personalized service. The award-winning hotel redefines luxury within the city’s most historic setting. The hotel is ideally located in the heart of Munich, within the city’s old town, only steps away from a host of museums, the Bavarian Opera House, theatres and the famous Hofbraeuhaus (beer hall and gardens). It is also within Munich’s most exclusive area for fine restaurants, designer boutiques, charming cafés, art galleries and picturesque farmers’ markets. Unique to Mandarin Oriental, Munich are its Michelin starred restaurant, Mark’s, and its rooftop terrace and heated swimming pool with spectacular 360 degree views over the city towards the Alps.
Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is the award-winning owner and operator of some of the world’s most prestigious hotels and resorts, currently operating 20 luxury hotels with a further 16 under development in Riviera Maya, Mexico and Hainan Island, China (2007), Barcelona, Boston and Beijing (2008), Dallas, Chicago, Las Vegas, Macau, Marrakech, Turks and Caicos, Grand Cayman and Costa Rica (2009) and Guangzhou, Taipei and Paris (2010). In total, Mandarin Oriental now operates, or has under development almost 9,800 rooms in 21 countries with 16 hotels in Asia, 13 in The Americas and seven in Europe and North Africa.

The Mandarin Oriental Introduces Health-Conscious Accommodation With New 'Spa Lifestyle Guestrooms."

Mandarin Oriental, Miami is delighted to debut a selection of “Spa Lifestyle Rooms,” specifically designed for the healthy-minded guest. Complete with an air purification system, in-room fitness program, personal lifestyle consultant and spa cuisine offerings, the new Spa Lifestyle Rooms aim to provide a balanced, stress-free environment for guests.

The in-room fitness program includes wellness dumbbell racks and wellness balls from Technogym, a world-class provider of fitness equipment.  Eco-Yoga mats, organic cotton yoga straps and yoga blocks are also provided for guests to enjoy a fitness class or workout in the comfort of their room.  A selection of fitness-themed TV channels, available 24 hours a day, offer classes of Pilates, Yoga and Body Sculpting as well as Guided Relaxation for Sleep.  Private yoga and meditation classes can also be arranged in-room or in The Spa’s Chi Studio by expert instructors from The Spa.  Guests can take advantage of the hotel’s state-of-the-art fitness centre which has been entirely renovated, with innovative equipment from Technogym.  It showcases The Cardio Wave, an innovative machine offering a similar motion to rollerblading or skiing. The gym is a high-tech, luxurious space, with stunning views across Biscayne Bay.

To address health and wellness concerns, Lifestyle Consultant Michelle Menendez will meet with guests and provide recommendations on various topics from nutrition and fitness to relaxation. Ms. Menendez can also arrange nutrition consultations, personal training classes, in-room massages, treatments at The Spa or bespoke spa experiences for guests.

Upon arrival, guests will be offered welcome green tea and a variety of organic foods including raw natural bars, all natural granola, dried fruits and dark extra fine chocolate to enjoy in the comforts of their Spa Lifestyle Room.  A special spa cuisine menu is available 24 hours a day through in-room dining.  Spa cuisine selections are also offered at the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant Café Sambal or at the poolside bar.
The Spa Lifestyle Rooms are located on the sixth floor of the hotel and each feature an expansive, private veranda with views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline, a marble bathroom with separate glass shower, cherry wood furniture and a choice of king size or two double beds. Rates begin at $735 per room per night.

For reservations, please contact the hotel directly on +1 (305) 913-8288, toll free +1 (866) 888-6780; or Mandarin Oriental’s direct on-line reservations service at web site www.mandarinoriental.com

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Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is the award-winning owner and operator of some of the world’s most prestigious hotels and resorts, currently operating 20 luxury hotels with a further 11 under development in Riviera Maya-Mexico and Hainan Island-China (2007), Barcelona, Boston and Grand Cayman (2008), Dallas, Chicago, Las Vegas, Macau, Marrakech and Turks and Caicos (2009). In total, Mandarin Oriental now operates, or has under development, almost 9,000 rooms in 18 countries with 13 hotels in Asia, 12 in the Americas and six in Europe and North Africa.

Germany's Modern Cuisine

Classic German cooking conjures up images of heavy fare, but sauerkraut and sausages are not all the German cuisine has to offer. A strong organic movement, European fusion and new young chefs add a light and sophisticated taste to regional dishes.

Germany has an abundance of restaurants using top-quality products and ingredients for a food loving nation. Many chefs insist on using absolutely fresh, preferably free range meats, and organic vegetables coming from local suppliers and food markets. The country is, in fact, a leader in organic farming and food production methods. The dishes are light and are prepared in such a way as to retain their high vitamin and mineral content. On the menu are choices such as lukewarm white asparagus salad and vegetable vinaigrette, potato and cucumber soup, red cabbage salad and many more. Sometimes culinary lovers will even find organic wines to accompany the meal.

Modern German cuisine as well represents a central European fusion of tastes incorporating influences from around the world. Not only recipes and spices of other countries influence the recipes, the dishes also vary according to each German state's culinary tradition and its regional agriculture. Many chefs even specialize in exquisite regional cuisine with an international touch. In Hamburg, for example, the top restaurants Landhaus Scherrer and Jacobs Restaurant add a strong northern German undertone to the menu. In the restaurant Stuttgarter Staeffele and Traube Tonbach in the state of Baden-Wuerttemberg, gourmands will find handmade Swabian specialties and a selection of more than several hundred regional wines.

To the point, many believe that Germany's modern cuisine remains to be discovered. It is not without pride that Germans will happily point out that restaurants in their country have more than their fare share of Michelin stars and other culinary accolades. To indulge their senses visitors can for example dine at the Castle Hotel Lerbach in Bergisch-Gladbach, the Schwarzwaldstube in Baiersbronn in the Black Forest Region, the Waldhotel Sonnora in the Eiffel region or the Schlossrestaurant Berg, close to Trier. Even the very critical Michelin inspectors rated these restaurants with three stars, a dream of any chef and restaurant.

The Art of Dining with Meissen Porcelain

Before a drop of wine moistens the tongue, the eye already delights in the pleasures of the festive table. From the first course to the espresso, visitors can dine in Meissen's porcelain factory restaurant close to Dresden.

The porcelain factory in Meissen was established at Albrechtsburg Castle in June 1710 and brought fame to the town through the porcelain it exported around the world featuring the hallmark of two blue crossed swords.

As the story goes, King Augustus the Strong ordered his subjects to find a way to manufacture gold. After much experimenting, scholars finally discovered the next best thing - "white gold" or porcelain, which proved a blessing for both the King and Meissen. Today Meissen's craftsmen still produce 175,000 items annually in a new site at the district of Meissen-Triebischtal, close to the original factory in the castle.

A visit to the Meissen porcelain factory is a Œmust‚ for any visitor to the Saxon town. A spectacular wealth and variety of exhibits illustrates the history of porcelain manufacturing and demonstration workshops present the areas of porcelain handicraft. The former porcelain factory, the Albrechtsburg, today houses a museum featuring a permanent exhibition on Meissen porcelain. www.meissen.de

Lifestyle für Gourmets at the Schloss Hotel Elmau

The five-star superior hotel ŒSchloss Elmau‚ palace, located in the South of Garmisch-Patenkirchen, is opening its doors again. After three wings of the castle were destroyed by a fire in 2005, the castle has reopened. ŒOn board‚ of the cultural hideaway is star chef Michael Hüsken with six different restaurants designed to inspire: Gourmets can indulge at the a la carte gourmet restaurant, the gourmet menu with vinothek, the live cooking buffet, the family restaurant and the spa restaurant. A new culinary highlight is a restaurant, which was especially designed for cooking classes. Here guests, hobby chefs, and gourmets alike can learn about creative fusion gourmet cuisine from the award-winning chef, who shares his culinary art, ranging from inspired entertainment to regional cooking. www.schloss-elmau.de

Germany: A Land of Unusual Museums Where Everything is Possible

From science and technology to Easter eggs and everyday life in the former GDR - Germany;s museums have it all. The exhibitions are fun, unique and simply not to be found anywhere else in the world in quite the same way.

In northern Germany, find out how a tornado starts, why soap bubbles shimmer in such a colorful way and why every human being is unique. In the Universum Science Center in Bremen museum which resembles a giant whale surfacing the ocean, science fans can experience hands-on features such as a submarine for deep sea exploration and a special earthquake room. Check web site www.universum-bremen.de

On Lake Constance in southern Germany, a life-size reconstruction of the airship LZ 129 Hindenburg can be explored in the Zeppelin museum at Friedrichshafen. The museum houses the world's largest collection on the history of the airships. Check web site www.zeppelin-museum.de

In Berlin, everyday culture of the former GDR can be found in the city's new interactive GDR museum: Visitors can drive a Trabi, watch original films produced in the old East or smell some authentic East German aromas in pre-fab kitchens. Check web site www.ddr-museum.de

Leipzig too brings the historical experience back to life at the Stasi (secret police) Museum ŒRound Corner‚. The former Leipzig Stasi headquarter building hosts a documentation about the "power and banality" of the former GDR secret police. The building was one of the focal points during the Monday Demonstrations which lead the way to the peaceful revolution preceding German reunification. Check www.runde-ecke-leipzig.de

One hour south, the German Pharmacy Museum in the Heidelberg Castle contains unique pharmaceutical collections dating back four centuries. Check web site www.deutsches-apotheken-museum.de

In the west, just outside of Essen, the German Wallpaper Museum has a collection of historical wall coverings including gold skin wallpapers, flock and oilcloth wallpapers, end-leaf and binding papers, Chinese wallpapers and Tapa wall hangings. Highlights from the history of wall coverings and valuable objects from every continent dating back over the centuries are on display. Check web site www.tapeten-institut.de (German only)

On the Romantic Road, the history of traditional family Christmas celebrations is told in the German Christmas Museum in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Decorations from different eras, more than 100 Santa Clauses and an unparalleled collection of nutcrackers bring the magic of Christmas to life all through the year. Check web site www.weihnachtsmuseum.de

German Food, beer and wine

German food, beer and wine are in a class by themselves. Gourmets will be surprised by the large variety of food museums reflecting Germany's culinary diversion and specialties.

The German Bread Culture with more than 300 different types of bread, from light wheat bread to grainy black pumpernickel is presented in the Bread Culture Museum in Ulm. Check www.brotmuseum-ulm.de

In the center of Germany in the state of Rhineland Palatine, ŒAll about potato‚ is the motto of a special Museum in Fussgoenheim. Visitors can not only learn about the history and regional dishes, but also about the different species including their names: Linda, Selma and Sieglinde are ideal for salads and Irmgard and Maritta are highly recommended for dumplings. Check web site www.deutsches-kartoffelmuseum.de (German only)

For those who are interested in the story of German beer, the Beer - and Oktoberfestmuseum in Munich or the Brewery Museum in Dortmund are the places to go. Beer lovers can learn about the history and the production of beer, the purity law, and the unique quality of German beer. Check web site www.muenchen.de and www.city.dortmund.de

And what would Germany be without sausage such as Berlin's famous Currywurst? The story of the sausage which is served in thin slices, garnished with ketchup and dusted with a thin layer of curry powder will be the focus in the new Currywurst Museum in Berlin which opening its doors for the first time this summer. Check web site www.currywurstmuseum.de

And that‚s not all - Germany is also host to a Chocolate Museum in Cologne, a Spice Museum in Hamburg, a Salt Museum in Lüneburg, a Sugar Museum in Berlin, a Peppermint Museum in Eichenau, a Horseradish Museum in Nuremberg, a Dumpling Museum in Weimar, and much more. To find more information about this specific museums go to web site www.cometogermany.com

Special Deals Fly Drive Europe

Nothing matches the freedom and excitement of a self-drive vacation! Picasso Tours offers an "air plus car" deal to Frankfurt. The tour will give visitors the opportunity to explore the city and the surrounding Rhine region. The special offer includes one week Alamo economy rental car, economy airfare from New York (JFK) to Frankfurt (no air taxes included), and a hotel room with double occupancy. www.picassotours.com

Sixt - 3 days Special ŒMega Drive‚

The car rental company Sixt offers the three day Special ŒMegaDrive‚ starting at Euro 115. Germany travelers can hire a posh car including comprehensive liability insurance and 466 free miles all year round. All over Germany there are more than 20 pick-up stations in the main cities, mostly at central locations like train stations, airports, and shopping centers. Enjoy the easy way of booking a car from home on www.sixti.com

CONTACT INFORMATION
For comments and enquiries, please contact the Information Center at the German National Tourist Office:

German National Tourist Office
122 East 42nd Street
New York, NY 10168-0072
Tel: (212) 661-7200
Toll-free: (800) 651-7010
Fax: (212) 661-7174

Rocco Forte's Hotel de Rome

Enjoy Rocco Forte’s Hotel de Rome, the newest addition to the Rocco Forte collection. Perfectly located in the heart of this vibrant city, Hotel de Rome is housed in a stunning conversion of an existing building that was once the head office of the Dresdner Bank. If guests are seeking glitz and glamour this New Year’s, then Berlin is the place to be. Hotel de Rome’s New Year’s Eve de Rome package includes:

For further information and reservations please visit the Rocco Forte Hotels website: <http://www.roccofortehotels.com/>www.roccofortehotels.com or call The Leading Hotels of the World at 1-800-223-6800.

Rocco Forte Hotels was established in 1996 to create a collection of luxury hotels in Europe. The hotels have individual styles ranging from traditional to contemporary, with each hotel reflecting its nationality and location. The collection is linked together under the Rocco Forte Hotels brand, which guarantees attention to detail, quality and service delivery.

The Rocco Forte Hotels collection includes:
- Hotel de Rome, Berlin
- Hotel de Russie, Rome
- Hotel Savoy, Florence
- The Balmoral, Edinburgh
- The St David’s Hotel & Spa, Cardiff
- The Lowry Hotel, Manchester
- Hotel Astoria, St Petersburg
- Hotel Amigo, Brussels
- Brown’s Hotel, London
- Villa Kennedy, Frankfurt
- Château de Bagnols, en Beaujolais (managed on behalf of Lady Hamlyn)

For more information, check web site www.coburg-tourist.de.

Or, for other inquiries, contact the Information Center at the German National Tourist Office, 122 East 42nd Street, New York, NY 10168-0072; 212-661-7200
or 800-651-7010, or check web site www.news.cometogermany.com.

Special Events: Cultural Capitals and Christmas for the Business Traveler

One of Germany's most important cultural capitals, Dresden, offers attractions in great variety. The Zwinger Museum, designed for August the Strong, is home to 12 collections including the Old Masters Gallery and the world‚s largest porcelain collection. The Frauenkirche, Semper Opera House and the Royal Palace as well as other magnificent promenades on the bank of the Elbe round out wonderful cultural offerings. For more information, check web site www.news.cometogermany.com or www.dresden.de.

Hamburg, 1,200 years old, is loved for both its contemporary scene as well as for its cultural offerings. In between traditional trading houses and renowned theaters and the enormous port, the latest trends are always cropping up. The leading art museum in northern Germany, the Kunsthalle, is one of the most important in Europe with some 3,000 paintings in its treasure trove, along with some 400 sculptures. Some of its rare treasures date from the 14th century, including work by Bertram, the leading German master of the time. One section of the gallery also displays modern works, including art by such artists as Andy Warhol, Joseph Beuys and Picasso. For more information, check web site www.news.cometogermany.com or www.hamburger-kunsthalle.de. Hamburg shows off with a wide range of different markets over the Christmas period and especially beautiful are the Hanseatic and Historic Christmas markets in the city center.

For more information, check web site www.news.cometogermany.com or www.hamburg-tourism.de.

Frankfurt is known as an important center of commerce and transportation with the most imposing skyline in Germany. But the city in the heart of Germany has renowned museums on the banks of the Main. The Staedel, one of the leading and best known art museums in Germany, is a must for any visitor to Frankfurt. Over 700 years of European history are represented in a collection of 2,700 paintings, 600 sculptures and 100,000 prints and drawings by artists ranging from Duerer, Hohlbein and Cranach to Rembrandt, Vermeer, Monet, Van Gogh and Cezanne to Matisse and Picasso, Bacon and Baselitz, Serra and Palermo. For more information, check web site www.cometogermany.com or www.staedelmuseum.de.

For more information check web site www.news.cometogermany.com or www.frankfurt-tourismus.de.

"Drive Deutschland" New Germany Car Brochure

Germany's new car brochure highlights the diversity and richness of the country's car and motorcycle culture, production facilities, museums, car and motorbike scenic driving routes. History, passion and technology are the defining characteristics of Germany's car industry and its global brands. Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Opel, Porsche and Volkswagen are world famous for their innovation and quality. In the new brochure, "Drive Deutschland" car enthusiasts can read about the more than 25 car museums complete with children's campuses; scenic driving routes; famous Formula 1 race tracks and company theme parks. In 16 colorful and informative pages, the brochure covers car attractions in the north, south, east and west of Germany including museums, state of the art production facilities, their opening hours and websites. There is also a map detailing exactly where all of the various car sites are located in Germany.

Taking a quick spin through Germany, one can start in the North in Wolfsburg with VW's futuristic production center. Children from three to 93 can take driving tests, experience car testing and view the company'‚s fantastic storage silos. For more information, check web site www.news.cometogermany.com or www.autostadt.de.

In Dresden, in the eastern state of Saxony, men in white coats and gloves put together VW's Phaeton, among other models, in the company's completely transparent (glass) factory. For more information, check web site www.news.cometogermany.com or www.glaesernemanufaktur.de In Dresden's city center, visitors can tour the city in Trabants (Trabis) from the former East Germany. For more information, check web site www.trabi-safari.de.

For those who like faster cars, Porsche builds its Cayenne models in Leipzig. Check web site www.news.cometogermany.com or web site www.porsche-leipzig.com, and right nearby is Zaha Hadid's new Central Building for BMW (web site www. news.cometogermany.com or www.bmw-werk-leipzig.de.

Heading west, one hour outside of Frankfurt, the Automobile and Technology Museum in Sinsheim has more than 3,000 exhibits, including vintage cars, racing cars, motorbikes, and even airplanes on display. For more information, check web site www. news.cometogermany.com or www.museum-sinsheim.de In Stuttgart the recently opened futuristic Mercedes Benz Museum has, for the first time, enough room to show the company‚s complete automobile collection. Combine the visit to the new museum with a behind the scenes tour of the Mercedes Benz Plant in Sindelfingen and a visit of the small museums on Gottlieb Daimler and Carl Benz, the inventors of the world‚s first petrol-engined vehicles. Check web site www. news.cometogermany.com or www.mercedes-benz.com. The new Porsche Museum currently being built in Stuttgart is set to bring the history of Porsche to life. The old museum will remain open until the new museum is ready in 2008. For more information, check web site www.news.cometogermany.com or www.porsche.com Driving further south and east to Ingolstadt and Neckarsulm in Bavaria, Audi combines both past and future in its two Audi Forums (check web site www.news.cometogermany.com or www.audi.com. And, one hour south in Munich, BMW looks forward to welcoming visitors to its new center, BMW World, in the spring of 2007. Check web site www. news.cometogermany.com or www.bmw-welt.com. Visitors also will enjoy the extensive car and motor exhibitions at the German Museum in Munich.

In addition to the thrill of the Autobahn, experience the challenge of a Formula 1 Race Track. The Nuerburg Ring, web site www.news.cometogermany.com or www.nuerburgring.de and the Hockenheim Ring, web site www.cometogermany.com or www.hockenheimring.de, stage a wide variety of exiting events from Formula 1 and the German Touring Car Championship to the Motorcycle Grand Prix. Courageous car fans can actually take test drives with race car drivers and get behind the wheel themselves.

To order your new brochure or to plan an auto trip to Germany, go to web site www.ComeToGermany.com.

Germany's Magic Cities

On the runway in Germany's Magic Cities this fall are unusual shopping environments created in elegant promenades, charming passageways, historic buildings and futuristic, glass arcades. The cities of Germany's nine-member city alliance, including Berlin, Cologne, Dresden, Duesseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Hannover, Munich and Stuttgart, are brimming with luxurious shopping and trendy fashions in a most unusual variety of market halls, passages and arcades

Berlin's grande dame of shopping, the luxury department store, KaDeWe, takes center stage next year as it celebrates its 100th anniversary. The Kaufhaus des Westens (commonly called KaDeWe), today is the largest department store in continental Europe, and has seen Berlin through good times and bad. With merchandise ranging from high-end international fashion, to home design, from luxury paper goods to beauty products, leather goods, and accessories, there is nothing the sophisticated shopper can‚t find on the store‚s six floors of elegant retail space. For more information, check web site www.news.cometogermany.com or www.kadewe.de.

Renzo Piano's recently completed new Peek & Cloppenburg department store, or "Weltstadthaus," in Cologne is a civic monument to shopping. It resembles a huge glass worm in the middle of Cologne's busiest shopping area on the Schildergasse. The inside of the building is bathed in light and protected from the sun by various shades. The solar control panel fulfils the special demands of a trend setting department store: Rooms flooded with daylight to present the true colors of apparel and accessories.

For more information, check web site www.news.cometogermany.com or www.peekandcloppenburg.de or www.koelntourismus.de.

Now for secret passageways! One of Dresden's most special shopping areas is called the "Kunsthandwerkerpassagen," or Artisans‚ Passages. They are located on Hauptstrasse, Dresden's beloved pedestrian street, behind the beautiful baroque facades of the buildings 9 to 19. Behind these doors are six artisans‚ passages that are home to many small crafts businesses, including jewelry, leather goods, carvings, porcelain manufacturers and more, which you can buy and watch being created. For more information check web site www.news.cometogermany.com or www.hauptsache-hauptstrasse. The combination of the beautiful baroque architecture and the beautiful arts and crafts creates a wonderful experience. Check web site www.news.cometogermany.com or www.dresden.de.

In Duesseldorf, the shopping is big, bold and beautiful. The names of designers having an address on the Koenigsalle, or "Koe"read like the 'Who's who' of the fashion business. Separated by a river running through it, the elegant and ever so obvious Koenigsalle has two personalities. The eastern side presents the elegant stores and galleries of the international fashion scene and the cafes where you see and be seen. While the western side of the boulevard houses most of the country's big banks, documenting in an impressive way the idea that money is earned on one side of the Koe and spent on the other. For more information, check web site www.news.cometogermany.com or www.duesseldorf-tourismus.de.

Despite its nickname, "Main-hattan," Frankfurt am Main actually presents two charming, village-like shopping districts: Sachsenhausen and Bornheim. They are known for their elegant and alternative boutiques, tea shops, apple wine pubs and flower markets. Along Bornheim's Bergerstrasse, you will find unusual fashion and accessory boutiques, such as Bluemmerling which will sell you "Made in happy Germany" bags, belts and clothing. Gate 05 offers the truly latest in travel fashions and accessories. Just behind the Museum Embankment on the Main, Sachsenhausen slips the visitor back in time to small cafes and shopping squares with modern boutiques and bustling streets.

For more information, check web site www.news.cometogermany.com or www.frankfurt-tourismus.de.

Hamburg's beautiful, glass covered shopping arcades and promenades make it seem that you are outdoors when you are really in. In the city center, there is the glass covered Hanse-viertel where you can enjoy a macchiato or a glass of champagne in between shopping forays. The Gaensemarkt, the Alte Post and the Bleichenhofstrasse, the Jungfernstieg and the Wandelhalle and even the Levantehaus, with its Steiff Teddy Bear Gallery, are exquisite, cosmopolitan arcades with unusual shops, boutiques and delicacies. On October 5th, a new glass covered arcade, the Europa Passage, opened to the public.

For more information, check web site www.news.cometogermany.com or www.hamburg-tourismus.de.

When one thinks of Hannover, one may envision trade fairs or some of the world's greatest horses or Nikki de Saint Phalle, whose sculptures adorn the city's sidewalks. For shopping-lovers, Hannover is all about fun and unusual specialty boutiques especially those along the Georgstrasse between the opera house and the Aegidientorplatz. More alternative shops are those located around the Marktkirche and the Lister Meile shopping street. Every Saturday, bargain hunters scramble for the best deals at the flea market which takes place on the banks of the River Leine.

For more information, check web site www.news.cometogermany.com or www.hannover-tourism.de.

Munich is where the beautiful people go and do beautiful shopping in beautiful stores! But what everyone can enjoy at any budget level are the antiques market and the restored Schrannenhalle. The antiques market in Daglfing is located just outside the city center. It is easily reachable by train and is open every second Sunday of the month. The Schrannenhalle, a former corn market not far from the Frauenkirche, re-opened last year after extensive renovation. The 19th century glass and iron construction was a first in the 1850s and today houses more than 50 market and craftsmen stalls each with its own individual architectural design.

For more information, check web site www.news.cometogermany.com or www.muenchen-tourist.de.

Reputed to be one of Germany's finest market halls, Stuttgart Market Hall was built in Jugendstil design in 1914. This impressive building today is a veritable paradise, full of epicurean delights and stylish and attractive household furnishings and garden equipment. On the ground floor, shopkeepers present their artistically and appetizingly displayed produce at a total of 38 stalls. The great variety of goods is guaranteed by the many different nationalities of the stallholders: 4 are from Italy, 4 from Greece, 2 from Hungary, 1 from Asia, 1 from Iran, 1 from Turkey, 1 from France and 22 from Germany. Its successful combination of specialities from the four corners of the earth, high-class articles for an elegant ambience in the kitchen, house and garden, and tempting catering makes shopping in this historic architecture a special occasion.

For more information, check web site www.news.cometogermany.com or www.stuttgart-tourist.de.

For more information on any of the above, check web site www.news.cometogermany.com or www.magic-cities.com.

Germany's Spas

After an indulgent holiday period, the New Year is the perfect time to detox, pamper and rejuvenate your body, and Germany with its famous spas and natural thermal springs is the ideal place to experience the spa water's curative powers. Spa goers cannot only relax in heated waters to soothe tired muscles and enjoy fresh alpine air at picturesque climatic health resorts, but can also choose from a wide range of massages and beauty treatments for a complete head to toe pampering experience.

Here are some ideas of where to go to relax and be pampered:

The Spa Resort of Baden-Baden

This elegant and internationally renowned town in south-west Germany at the foot of the Black Forest offers relaxation and well-being of the very highest caliber: at the modern Caracalla thermal baths and the historical Friedrichsbad baths, as well as in luxurious properties such as Brenner's Park Hotel & Spa. Exclusive shopping, a world-class casino and the second-largest opera house in Europe, the Festival Theater, are further attractions of Baden-Baden.

For more information, check web site www.baden-baden.de

Bad Homburg - Wellbeing Oasis

Bad Homburg, just outside Frankfurt, is widely regarded as one of the finest spa resorts in Germany. A wealth of spa and leisure facilities include the new "Kur-Royal" day spa and Taunus Thermal Baths where mineral springs have long been used to prevent illness and restore health. Treatments are available for cardiovascular diseases, musculo-skeletal illnesses, rheumatic problems, irregularities of the digestive system, skin diseases, general weakness and convalescence.

For more information, check web site www.bad-homburg.de

Liquid Sound Therapy

Experience Liquid Sound, an out of this world spa experience that combines bathing in healing Dead Sea waters with sound and light therapy. Toskana Thermal Baths in the spa town of Bad Sulza in Thuringia, eastern Germany was the first spa in the world to offer this unusual and remarkable new therapy, which is also available at the Liquidrom Therme Berlin and Toskana Therme, Bad Schandau (close to Dresden).

For more information, check web site www.liquid-sound.com

SPECIAL OFFERS European Tours

5 Day Anti-stress Wellness Week from $360

Spend 5 days in Bad Kissingen, one of Germany's best-known spa resorts situated in the scenic valley of the river Saale in Franconia in northern Bavaria.

You will love this cosmopolitan resort combining both tradition and modernity with its fairytale-like spa facilities, outstanding surrounding landscape and a wide range of sporting, leisure and cultural activities. Your package includes 4 nights in a 4-star hotel and one selected spa treatment per day.

For more information, check web site www.europtours.com

Steigenberger Hotel

Bad-Reichenhall Spa Package from $449 per person

Stay at the beautiful Steigenberger Hotel in Bad-Reichenhall for 3 nights and indulge in our beauty program that includes a scented Tao bath oil, a facial treatment and Shiatsu massage.

You will also enjoy free use of the pool and sauna. Close to Munich and only a few minutes from historic Berchtesgarten, you will have many options to add to your spa experience.

For more information, check web site www.bad-reichenhall.steigenberger.de

Special Note:

For the latest special offers on packages to Germany check web site
www.ComeToGermany.com

Also, this web site features travel tools and maps that both delight and inform, in addition to the Top Ten Places To Go, Things To Do and Events including the Black Forest, Driving Trabis or watching the Rhine in Flames. And, an interactive map shows some of Germany‚s top destinations, such as Leipzig and Kassel, which plays host this year to the documenta12 art exhibit.

For a chance to win a free trip to Germany, check web site www.news.cometogermanyNOW.com.

Germany is a Mecca for Contemporary Art Lovers

Germany was a hotbed of 20th century art. Its incredible art explosion with the advent of the Jugendstil Movements, the Bauhaus and Expressionism were echoed throughout the country and all over the world. These days, the art and culture scene in Germany is still more than alive and vital. With more than 6000 museums and galleries spread all over the country, Germany is nothing, if culturally rich. But especially a strong contemporary art movement turns Germany into an art Mecca, which shows the present importance of the German art scene. Art schools and German artists, such as Neo Rauch from the Leipzig School, enjoy a worldwide reputation in the art scene.

For more information, check web site www.skulptur-projekte.de

For more information, check web site www.artcologne.de

Special Deals

Relax in the Alpenhof Murnau

Treat yourself to a week in the Alpenhof. Murnau is located about 100 miles south of Munich in a picture book region which was an inspiration for Wassily Kandinsky and August Macke more than 100 years ago. The package comprises: a welcome cocktail, seven nights accommodation including breakfast buffet, and free entrance to the hotel spa area. Prices start at 592 EUR per person for one week.

For more information, check web site www.alpenhof-murnau.com

"Companion Flies Free" Package

Berlin, Munich, Fankfurt - Wherever you go your companion flies free with Delta. Delta Vacations offers a promotion package of five nights or longer to one of the German cities. Two people can fly for the price of one and stay at any one of the participating hotels.

For more information, check web site www.deltavacations.com

For comments and inquiries, contact Victoria Larson, PR Manager, at the German National Tourist Office: phone: 212-661-7200 ext. 223 or email: victoria.larson@d-z-t.com

Events

German National Tourist Office
122 East 42nd Street
New York, NY 10168-0072
Tel: (212) 661-7200
Toll-free: (800) 651-7010
Fax: (212) 661-7174
Email: GermanyInfo@d-z-t.com
Internet: www.cometogermany.com

Biking Germany: Ultimate Stay Fit, Intimate and Rewarding Travel Experience

Discovering Germany by Bike, a new brochure offered by the German National Tourist Office, is a fantastic resource to planning your trip for the family or friends.

Travel enthusiasts who like an up close and intimate experience with Germany‚s culture, exquisite countryside, ancient castles, charming villages and fascinating city life will be rewarded with a bike trip to Germany.

Families, friends, couples and biking groups of any number are able to choose from hundreds of well organized, paved and auto-free biking routes found in "Discovering Germany by Bike," a new brochure offered by the German National Tourist Office. You can ride at a leisurely pace, or race down mountain trails, explore ancient castles, pedal through lake districts, past stud farms, through medieval villages, through wine regions and along rivers. Some of the routes have been in existence for hundreds of years.

The new 90 page brochure is chock-a-block full of different scenic routes, including the Fairytale River Experience along the Weser River in the land of Brothers Grimm, the Mosel Cycle Route, the Elbe River Route and the Neckar Valley path along the Castle Road. Whether you want to pedal down the Oder Neisse River separating Germany and Poland or cycle from Berlin to Copenhagen, the brochure outlines your travel, how to get there, bicycle rentals, luggage transfers, sightseeing opportunities, maps with mileage marked and literature on the regions and special packages. The brochure includes special tips for travelers, including renting bikes with global navigation systems, special spas, fun festivals and special, out-of-the-way restaurants offering local cuisine. You can plan a trip for two weeks or simply for one day!

To order your brochure, go to Germany's web site at www.news.cometogermany.com.

For those interested in booking tours directly with a U.S. company, a top choice is www.Biketoursdirect.com, where cyclists can choose from over 50 diverse biking routes, including the "Romantic Road," "Baltic to Berlin," the "Benedict Cycle Route" the "Elbe River and Saxon Switzerland" and the "Danube Bike Path." BikeToursDirect offers tours at local companies‚ rates and arranges the booking and payments. Starting at $650 per week, self-guided tours include luggage transfers, hotel lodging, breakfasts, bike rentals, service hotline and route detail. Guided tours, which add dinners, ride-along guide and support van, start at $850. The company's web site outlines detailed information on each tour's level of difficulty, terrain, daily program, services, dates and prices.

For more information, check web site www.biketoursdirect.com.

Dusseldorf -- Hidden Jewel on the Rhine

Düsseldorf is not only Germany's second largest business city, but it also has an international reputation as a center for art and culture featuring outstanding museums, theaters, and more than 100 art galleries. The city on the Rhine is also home to various architectural art pieces such as the Benrath Palace and the Media Harbor.

Art treasures of classical modern art, works by the old masters, and contemporary art from all five continents are on display in the Museum Kunst Palast. Highlights of the exhibition include the internationally renown Graphics Collection with a large number of important sketches from the Italian baroque era and the Glass Museum. Altogether the museum presents a total of 500 works from paintings and graphics, over installations and sculptures to photos and book illuminations.

For more information, check web site www.museum-kunst-palast.de

For modern and contemporary art the Duesseldorf Kunsthalle has fascinated visitors with its prefabricated concrete structure and generously dimensioned exhibition halls. Changing exhibitions of contemporary art feature Düsseldorf artists, new talents as well as international artists.

For more information check web site www.kunsthalle-duesseldorf.de

Housed next door, the Museum K20 displaying 20th century art has an extensive modern art collection, including works by Picasso, Klee and Beuys. Since April 2002, the K20 has a younger sibling, the museum for international contemporary art of the 21st century, the K21 Art Collection. This collection is housed in a separate building and has post modern and avant-garde works starting from the late 70s.

For more information check web site www.kunstsammlung.de

The newest ŒKIT‚ (Kunst im Tunnel) on the block‚ is the Düsseldorf art tunnel, literally under the promenade of the Rhine River, where up and coming young artists display their works. Within the first 14 days after its opening this February, over 7000 visitors came to see the artistic works in the KIT.

For more information check web site www.kunst-im-tunnel.de

More than 200 years ago, Benrath Palace was built in the south of Düsseldorf, as a pleasure and hunting palace for the Elector Karl Theodor. Today the Palace houses the Museum of Garden Art and the Museum for Natural History. The palace with its garden is considered one of Europe's rare total works of art of the late rococo period.

For more information check web site www.schloss-benrath.de

More recently created and a piece of art in and of itself is Duesseldorf's Media Harbor representing Duesseldorf's modern site. Famous architects such as Frank O. Gehry, David Chipperfield, Joe Coenen, Steven Holl and Claude Vasconi have made the MediaHarbor a meeting point for connoisseurs of architecture from all over the world. Where just a few years ago a gloomy atmosphere emanated from disused storehouses, renowned companies and cutting edge restaurants and bars as well as an urban beach are now established.

For more information check web site www.duesseldorf-tourismus.de

Twenty minutes outside of Düsseldorf is the Raketenstation Hombroich, a former NATO missile base, which was opened as a cutting edge art colony in September 2004. Art and nature unite in perfect harmony in a private museum set in park and meadowland created by the landscape planner Bernhard Korte. In this idyllic scenery, the artist Erwin Heerich placed 11 pavilions - each a piece of art in itself - to house artistic works. Tadao Ando‚s beautiful glass museum for the Langen Foundation, which comprises about five hundred works of Japanese art and three hundred works of modern Western art including works by Cézanne, Beckmann, Warhol, Rothko, Dubuffet, Bacon and Polke, graces the edge of Hombroich Island creating an oasis of calmrefuge.

For more information check web site www.inselhombroich.de (German only) and www.langenfoundation.de

Dusseldorf Welcome Card

An easy way to discover the Rhine metropolis and its museums is the Düsseldorf WelcomeCard. The discount card includes free ride on public transports, free or reduced entry to many museums and reduced fares for opera, theatre, variety theatre, and boat tours. The Düsseldorf WelcomeCard is valid for 24 hours (9 Euro), 48 hour (14 Euro) or 72 hours (19 Euro) and is available at the Tourist Information offices, many museums, hotels and the ticket offices of the Rheinbahn (public transports).

For more information on the WelcomeCard and Duesseldorf's cultural highlights visit www.duesseldorf-tourismus.de.

Traveling to Germany and Europe via Dusseldorf is very convenient and saves time. Delta Air Lines, Northwest, LTU and Lufthansa offer numerous flights from various destinations within the US to Dusseldorf.

Jakobsplatz Jewish Center

St.-Jakobs-Platz, adjacent to Marienplatz and Viktualienmarkt, is home to a new building complex which includes the Jewish Museum run by the city of Munich, as well as the new Jewish Center run by the Jewish community. Saarbrücken-based architects Wandel Hoefer Lorch, commissioned with the design of the entire complex, have given the three buildings a unified appearance by using the same material on all façades. At the same time, St.-Jakobs-Platz is being redesigned into an arena for urban life that can serve many different purposes.

The Main Synagogue

The cornerstone for Munich’s new main synagogue was laid on November 9, 2003, sixty-five years after the November pogrom and the destruction of the city’s synagogues. Inspired by two recurring architectural forms in the history of Judaism, the temple and the tent, the new synagogue fluctuates between stability and flexibility. These two states significantly govern the actual interior and exterior of the space.

The Community Center

The new multipurpose community center has been created to meet the religious, social and cul-tural needs of a rapidly growing community. With the increased immigration of individuals from the CIS states of the former Soviet Union, the Jewish community has grown to include approximately 9,000 members. The center will provide services that range from a public elementary school, a kindergarten and a youth center, to a community auditorium, kosher restaurant, and the administrative offices and social services department of the Jewish community.

The Jewish Museum

The third building on this site, designed as a freestanding cube, is the Jewish Museum run by the city of Munich. Its transparent ground floor lobby, glazed on all four sides, functions not only as a display window but also as a public space. Here, visitors can find the information desk, museum bookstore, and Café-Bar. The two floors above house our changing exhibitions, Learning Center, and Library. The Jewish Museum’s permanent exhibition is located on the lower level.

Building Owners and Contractors

Synagogue and Community Center:
Jewish Community of Munich and Upper Bavaria
Museum and Redesign of St.-Jakobs-Platz:
City of Munich

Architecture

Synagogue, Community Center and Museum:
Wandel Hoefer Lorch Architects, Saarbrücken
Exhibition Design
Martin Kohlbauer, Vienna
Landscape Design (St.-Jakobs-Platz):
Regina Poly, Landscape Architect, Berlin

GREECE

Europe in autumn never looked or tasted better. Wimco Villas is offering complimentary wines and a free welcome dinner to villa clients during the upcoming harvest season in Italy. And itís offering four-night stays for the price of three at select villas in Santorini.

Wimco Villas offers Thanksgiving and Holiday villa values starting as low as $179 per bedroom per night for a seven-night stay in a three-bedroom villa in Punta Mita over Thanksgiving and $171 per bedroom for a similar stay on St. Martin.

Wimco Villasí reservation team that can make everything from private chefs to helicopters happen suggests the reasons active families may be interested in the following islands for upcoming school holidays:

ï Get back to nature on St. John
ï Check out a Maui helicopter tour
ï Visit a Grand Cayman turtle farm
ï Take an island safari on Barbados
ï And enjoy water sports galore on St. Martin

Plus, some villas on St. Barts are adding additional value to a weekly rental by including rental cars in the villa price.

For additional details please check web site WWW.WIMCO.COM/NEWSLETTER/20090715.ASP

IRELAND

NEWS (Note: Towns and Cities follow after the NEWS

Ashford Castle Launches a New Fairies and Leprechauns Children's Program - Just in Time for a Summer Family Getaway

Ireland has long been known as the land of legend and mystery, and Ashford Castle, one of Ireland's most renowned castle-hotels, is located precisely where the myths (...or true stories?) of both fairies and leprechauns originated. To share this mystical history with its guests, Ashford Castle has created a special, two-night family program geared towards children - as well as the other little ones...the fairies and leprechauns, of course!

The Myths of Ashford Castle: Fairies & Leprechauns begins in the Drawing Room, where local historian Mick May tells children a tale about, you guessed it, fairies and leprechauns. Children are then given a special leprechaun hat to wear throughout the day, and the group sets off for a treasure hunt in search of a pot of gold - eventually finding one filled with gold-covered chocolate coins. All children receive a four-leaf clover shamrock necklace for good luck as well as a book on Ashford Castle's myths, including myths of, you guessed it again, fairies and leprechauns. The day ends with a special hot chocolate in the Drawing Room.

The package, priced at €980.00 (approximately $1,333), includes two nights accommodation in a deluxe queen room with two queen beds for two adults and two children (under the age of 12 years old), breakfast included.  

About Ashford Castle:
Ashford Castle, which dates back to 1228, is set on 350 acres of County Mayo, on the shores of Lough Corrib and the River Cong, with a spectacular backdrop of woodlands, lake, river, and mountains. It features 83 guestrooms and is renowned for a range of country sports including an equestrian center, fly fishing, an exclusive nine-hole golf course, Ireland's first school of falconry and sporting clay shooting. Several dining rooms (with children's menus) and bars, along with a gracious afternoon tea service, round out the amenities. 

For more information, please visit www.ashford.ie.

Go Ireland Activity Holidays is an Irish-based tour company specializing in walking, hiking and cycling tours. Led by local residents, newest programs include a yoga walk and a multi-activity hiking, biking, sea kayaking, canoeing and horseback riding itinerary. Group, independent and custom-made tours are offered to give insight into the traditions, myths and people of Ireland. Accommodations range from five-star hotels and castles to small inns and guesthouses in some of the most beautiful and tranquil spots in the world.  Go Ireland can also arrange golf, equestrian, fishing and self-drive tours. 

For more information check web site www.govisitireland.com or call 800-721-4672.

A Celtic Heritage Experience

With the eight-day Celtic Kerry Footsteps tour, easy walking in the region known as the Kingdom of Kerry offers an informative introduction to ancient and modern Ireland. Based in the National Park town of Killarney and the friendly market town of Caherciveen, walkers will enjoy the stunning lake, mountain and Atlantic-coast scenery of the southwest of Ireland. The itinerary covers just 3 to 6 miles of flat ground each day, with coastal and inland walks through sub-tropical flora. Physical activity is planned for a maximum of four hours, leaving the remainder of the day open for cultural adventures. Guests may learn about the ancient art of water divining, and take a lesson in playing the bodhran, a traditional Irish drum.

Interesting visits include Killarney, a vibrant town in the heart of the Killarney National Park; 15th-century Ross Castle; and 19th-century Muckross House, with its beautifully landscaped gardens, traditional farms and historic abbey. An Irish whiskey tasting, a jaunting car ride in Killarney, horseback riding and a maze trail by the Atlantic Ocean add to the excitement. There’s also a guided cycle tour of Valentia Island, known as The Treasure Island, fascinating for its unique folkloric experience and distinctive archaeological features. Pub visits set a lively scene for getting to know the locals.

A Trio of Walking Options with Go Ireland

The Kerry Gems tour is based in Glenbeigh, County Kerry, and explores the southwest of Ireland. Four legs of the Kerry Way, featuring ancient coach and butter roads, lead from the Atlantic Ocean along the shores of Dingle Bay and through the wild valleys of Mid Kerry to the Killarney National Park. Moderate walking covers 7 to 11 miles per day with gradual ascents of up to 1,300 feet.

Priced at just €750 per person, double occupancy, this seven-night guided walking vacation includes accommodations in a walking lodge, breakfast and dinner daily, five packed lunches, and more. As an added bonus, the first six people to book on solo dates will each have a room to themselves without having to pay the single supplement. Additional solo travelers may choose to be paired off on a twin-share basis with members of the same sex. Details are available at www.govisitireland.com/solo.html.

Majestic Kerry is a luxurious, multi-center guided walk on The Dingle and Kerry Ways, with accommodations at a selection of elegant manor houses, hotels and guesthouses in villages throughout Kerry. Washed by the Gulf Stream, the southwest of Ireland enjoys a mild climate that promotes rich vegetation, with wild flowers and hedgerows providing lush counterpoint to the rugged, craggy coastline and inland mountains and lakes. This tour gives an opportunity to explore the spectacular landscape, history and archaeology of an area that forms two fingers of land projecting into the Atlantic Ocean—the Dingle and Iveragh Peninsulas in Kerry—using legs of two long-distance walking routes, The Dingle Way and The Kerry Way. Two boat trips explore the Lakes of Killarney and Great Skellig Island, home in the eighth century to Irish monks and now a World Heritage site. Easy walking covers 3 to 6 miles daily, with gradual ascents of up to 825 feet.

About Go Ireland

Founded in 1994 and headquartered in Killorglin, in County Kerry, Go Ireland is an innovative tour company specializing in walking, hiking and cycling vacations. Group, independent and custom tours are designed for in-depth insight into the traditions, history, myths and people of Ireland. Group tours are small and international, and are designed to provide a unique travel experience in Ireland. Expert local guides ensure a memorable cultural immersion. Accommodations range from five-star hotels and historic castles to small inns and guesthouses in some of the most beautiful and tranquil spots in the world. Go Ireland can also arrange golf, equestrian, fishing and self-drive tours. A member of ASTA and Walking Cycling Ireland,

Go Ireland is Ireland’s premier adventure travel company. www.govisitireland.com / 800-721-4672.

Ashford Castle Epitomizes Perfect Playground for Family and Couples

With 350 acres of beautiful gardens, woodlands, lakes, golf course, tennis courts and an equestrian center, Ashford Castle is one of the world's most appealing summer playgrounds.


Fishing on Lough Corrib, includes two nights, full Irish breakfast daily, table d'hote dinner one evening and full day of fishing with Ashford's resident Ghillie. Rates begin at €565 per person, double occupancy for a Riverview Corrib room.

Ashford Castle is the former country estate of the Guinness family and the winner of numerous awards including one of the Top Hotels in Europe from Travel + Leisure magazine's World's Best Awards Readers' Poll in 2006 and 2005 and the top accolade from TripAdvisor in 2007 as the #1 Castle hotel in Europe.

Ashford Castle is located in Cong, County Mayo, Ireland. Telephone: 011 353 94 954 6003; Fax: 011 353 94 954 6260; web site: www.ashford.ie. 

Ashford Castle Makes the Perfect, Unique Wedding Location

Pierce Brosnan and Keely Shaye Smith married at Ashford Castle in 2001. That event catapulted Ashford Castle to one of the premiere destination venues in the world.

Ashford Castle was originally built as a crenellated castle in the 13th century and rebuilt as a hunting and fishing lodge in the 1800s. As the former estate of the Guinness family, today it is one of the finest and most luxurious castle hotels in Ireland.

While Pierce Brosnan's wedding featured a ceremony in Ballintubber Abbey and a Marquee wedding reception on Lough Corrib, today's couples have a plethora of bespoke wedding options to choose for their celebration. 

According to Monica Feeney, Conference and Banqueting Coordinator, “Wedding parties can take over the entire castle and plan a bespoke wedding tailored to their visions.” Ms. Feeney meets with the bride and groom early on in the process, creates a customized wedding proposal and works with them to craft an event reflective of their personalities.

A bespoke wedding at Ashford Castle also features many value-added amenities including complimentary flower centerpieces for the tables, place cards, a professional makeup artist for the bride and access to all of the hotel's table linens, china and crystal.

Ashford Castle offers a menu of wedding options including:

o     Traditional Irish barbecues by the cottage on the evening before the wedding (in summertime.)

o     Horse and Hound greetings for the guests.

o     Bagpipers who welcome the bride and groom to the Castle and pipe the bride and groom into dinner.

o     Church wedding in the Church of Ireland - on the grounds of Ashford Castle - or in the Catholic Church on the edge of the grounds.

o     Photographs in the formal gardens, by the lake (Lough Corrib,) in the mature woodland or the large open lawns.

o     Special entertainment during the cocktail hour such as a caricaturist doing portraits, a tethered hot air balloon or fireworks coordinated to music following the ceremony.

o     Themes including a medieval banquet, a Middle Eastern evening, an Italian feast, Murder Mystery Nights and all black-tie or all white-tie affairs. The Murder Mystery theme, for example, features a script customized to the bride and groom's story of how they met or a tale they want to tell at a fee of approximately €2,150 exclusive of taxes.

o     Balladeers during dinner or traditional Irish dancers performing sets from Fleet of Flames.

o     Welcome drink reception on the lawn (weather permitting) or under a marquee. Alternatively, smaller wedding parties can enjoy drinks indoors by the Inglenook fireplace as a harpist plays in the background. Larger parties may mingle in the Oak Hall as a string quarter drifts performs from the balcony.

o     For the dinner reception, Ashford Castle can accommodate two styles of weddings: a maximum of 40 people in the intimate Connaught Room or 160 guests in the George “V” dining room. Traditionally, there is a five course set menu comprised of a Starter, Soup, Main Course, Dessert, Tea/Coffee and Petit Fours.

The 2007 per room rate for wedding parties wanting exclusive use of the castle (reserving 83 rooms) starts from €195.00 per room, per night, based upon double occupancy and varying according to the season selected. These rates include full Irish breakfast, tax and service charge. The wedding reception dinner is priced from €70.00 per person, exclusive of service charges.

The wedding cake, limousine service, flowers, entertainment and printing can all be arranged through Ashford Castle for additional fees.

Ashford Castle is located in Cong, County Mayo, Ireland. For more information, call 011 353 94 954 6003; Fax: 011 353 94 954 6260; or check web site www.ashford.ie. 

Merrion Takes A Walk on the Wild Side -- Introducing Hiking in the Wicklow Mountains

Guests at The Merrion, Dublin's most stylish 5-star hotel, may break away from the hotel's luxury and coddling with a hike in the Wicklow Mountains - known as “The Garden of Ireland” - less than an hour's drive from the hotel.

On this trek travelers experience the spectacular mountain scenery and tranquility. The trek begins at 9 a.m. and ranges from seven to nine miles at a moderate pace. Guests may choose to begin or end their trek in the charming valley of Glendalough, featuring two beautiful lakes. The journey includes a visit to the Monastic Settlement with its majestic round tower. Christopher Stacey, an expert mountain guide, accompanies the group and shares the charms of Irish folklore, natural history and wildlife.

The “Footfalls Walking Holidays Package” includes one or two night's accommodation in a double or twin Garden Wing room, full Irish breakfast, a plentiful homemade boxed lunch, all-weather gear including hiking boots and transportation to and from the Wicklow Mountains. The package, valid until November 30, 2007, is €660 per couple for a two-night stay or €385 for a one-night stay, inclusive value added tax and service and subject to availability.

For further information and reservations contact The Merrion: 011 353-1-603-0600; e-mail: reservations@merrionhotel.com or Crown International: 1 800 628-8929 (from the US) or e-mail at info@crownluxurytravel.com. Reservations can also be made through The Leading Hotels of the World at: 1 800 223-6800. The Merrion website is: www.merrionhotel.com; The Crown International website is: www.crownluxurytravel.com and The Leading Hotels of the World website is: www.lhw.com.

Background on The Merrion: Opened in October 1997, The Merrion is Dublin's most luxurious 5-star hotel. The property was created from a row of four meticulously restored Grade One Listed Georgian townhouses and a specially commissioned contemporary Garden Wing. The Merrion offers 123 guestrooms and 20 suites, The Tethra Spa, Ireland's only two-star Michelin restaurant, Patrick Guilbaud, and one of Ireland's largest collections of private art, as well as two landscaped period gardens. The Merrion has been awarded the global “Commitment to Quality Award” by The Leading Hotels of the World. The hotel has also been named among the “50 World's Most Romantic Places” and “World's Best Business Hotels” by Travel + Leisure.

ITALY

Current Events Taking Place ---

Drawing on its network of over thirty scholars and specialists on the ground, and its track record of designing engaging learning experiences for travelers in cities throughout Europe and America, Context announces the expansion of its acclaimed Family Program to Florence.

The program features 2- and 3-hour walking tours of Florence lead by scholars in art history, history, and other disciplines who have been specially trained to work with children and make the monuments and artistic heritage of Florence come alive for them.

The influential parenting magazine Cookie recently praised Context’s family walks, calling the organization’s docents “charismatic guide(s) who can bring the sites to life with stories.”

The organization’s walks in Florence feature a mix of city overviews and in-depth art- and history-themed walking tours. Symbols and Legends of Florence is an interactive treasure hunt in which families search for such traditional symbols of Florence as the lily and the Medici “balls” as they explore the city’s history and architecture. Renaissance Life for Families, a more in-depth walk, focuses on the everyday life of families living during the Renaissance, paying special attention to home life in a visit to the Palazzo Davanzati, a 15th century residence. In Arte Firenze for Families children and their parents explore the Uffizi Gallery with one of Context’s art historians. Further afield, in Siena, the Palio-Siena traces the history of Siena, using the city’s age-old Palio horse race as a thread.

Context’s family walks are led by docents from the Context scholars network who have experience in the educational departments of museums and who have been trained in VTS (Visual Thinking Strategies), a cutting-edge approach to teaching children how to think critically about art. Walks often include didactic techniques such as flashcards, treasure hunts, or drawing exercises.

Founded by National Geographic writer Paul Bennett and designer Lani Bevacqua, Context is a network of English-speaking scholars and professionals—including art historians, writers, architects, and gastronomes—who organize and lead didactic walking seminars across seven cities: Rome, Florence, Naples, Venice, Paris, London, and New York. In May 2006, Travel + Leisure named Context one of the top European tour companies for its innovative approach to travel and the depth of its programs.

A leader in sustainable tourism, learn more about Context by visiting web site www.contexttravel.com

Discovering the Province of Arezzo

Arezzo and its Province, with its four valleys - Valdichiana, Valtiberina, Valdarno and Casentino – and two rivers (Arno and Tevere), are located in the most eastern part of Tuscany.

The Province’s multicoloured landscape, marked by low hills covered with olive-groves and vine-yards in the west, becomes more mountainous in the north-east, with chestnuts and firs (National Park of Casentinesi Woods, Falterona and Campigna Mountains), and then opens up in the south with the sunny lowland of Valdichiana. Natural wonders, such as Le Balze del Valdarno, defined as “stone cathedrals”, have served over the centuries as background for many artists’ works, including Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpieces.

Etruscans settled here and left interesting archaeological treasures in Arezzo, Castiglion Fiorentino and Cortona, whose Museum of the Etruscan Academy and of the Town of Cortona contains precious objects dating back to said civilization. The area is the homeland of artists such as Masaccio and Piero della Francesca, a Renaissance genius who left many works in Arezzo (his masterpiece La Leggenda della Vera Croce is in the Basilica of San Francesco), in Sansepolcro (the artist’s native town, whose Civic Museum contains some of his art works) and in Monterchi (the magnificent Madonna del Parto).

Other artists who worked in the area include Michelangelo, Signorelli, the great Giorgio Vasari - whose distinguished house can still be visited in Arezzo, where he left an interesting and rich testimony of his art - and Beato Angelico, the Dominican friar who painted one of the most delicate Annunciations (now in the Diocesano Museum) for the town of Cortona. Monks and hermits sought peace and solace in the Casentino woods; among these, Saint Romualdo, who founded the Camaldolesi religious order in Camaldoli in the 11 th century, and Saint Francis, who chose to retire to pray in La Verna Forest, where he received the stigmata in 1224. The Sanctuary still preserves the Franciscan spirituality and artistic grace, as sculpted in the glazed terracotta by Andrea della Robbia.

The diversity of the area is matched by its many handicraft products: woodworks, gold-work, ceramics, laces, i.e. traditional activities which still express the creativity, history and patient work of artisans engaged in manufacturing marvellous works to be seen and bought in their workshops and exhibitions held every year in small and large centres. The monthly Antiques’ Fair in Arezzo and Cortonantiquaria are two of the most prestigious antiques’ exhibitions in Italy. Food and wine also play an important role, offering flavours and old traditional recipes to be tasted in the trattorie and osterie of our boroughs: chianina meat (a highly-esteemed bovine race which is still bred in Valtiberina), cheese (e.g. pecorino of Casentino), ham (ham of Valdarno and Casentino), chestnuts, honey, the famous wine of Arezzo’s hills, vin santo and much more, to be discovered by touring and visiting the Province of Arezzo. There are many opportunities to experience the history and folklore of Arezzo’s Province, such as the Giostra del Saracino in Arezzo, the Palio della Balestra in Sansepolcro, and the Giostra dell’Archidado in Cortona.

Piero della Francesca -- in and around Arezzo

The itinerary-- through the province of Arezzo, in discovery of the works of Piero della Francesca -- unwinds through the valley of the Tiber, the Valtiberina, taking in the towns of Sansepolcro and Monterchi, birthplace of the artist’s mother, Monna Romana, and the city of Arezzo.

Piero della Francesca was born in Sansepolcro around 1418-20, and the Museo Civico of the town houses four works by the artist. The Polyptych of the Misericordia, tempera on panel, was commissioned from Piero by the Sansepolcro Compagnia of the same name in 1445. The Resurrection is a large fresco painted by Piero della Francesca on the central wall of the Council Chamber. The fresco portraying St. Julian was discovered in 1954 in the old church of Sant’Agostino, later dedicated to Santa Chiara. The detached fresco showing St. Louis, originating from the Palazzo Pretorio, shows the saint dressed in a Franciscan habit with a richly decorated bishop’s cope.

Leaving Sansepolcro the itinerary continues in Monterchi, in the Val Cerfone. For this little town, perched on a hill on the border with Umbria, Piero della Francesca painted the extraordinary fresco of the Madonna del Parto for the ancient church of Santa Maria a Momentana. The itinerary through the homelands of Piero then proceeds to Arezzo where it terminates. The Bacci chapel in the Basilica of San Francesco houses the fresco cycle of the Legend of the True Cross, the masterpiece which the artist painted for the Franciscan church between around 1452 and 1466. In the Cathedral of Arezzo, at the top of the north aisle, is the fresco showing St. Mary Magdalene. One of the most interesting aspects of the works of Piero della Francesca, whether they are frescoes or panel paintings, is the landscape to which the artist devotes ample space in his works. Who has not paused for a moment to observe and submit to the attraction of those natural or architectural backgrounds which are to be found in the frescoes of the Legend of the True Cross in Arezzo or the Resurrection in Sansepolcro? The attraction that this aspect has always exerted, inspiring poets to pen noble verses and writers to impassioned prose, is well-known. Even today, the descriptions of the great travellers could guide the visitor through the works of Piero della Francesca, allowing him to discover that practically nothing has changed.

The beautiful views, the daring foreshortenings, the barren and rocky mountains of the Valtiberina are those described in 1581 by Michel de Montaigne on a journey from Sansepolcro to Arezzo, via the La Scheggia pass, landscapes immortalised in the background to the Resurrection. The Tiber, the river that laps the town of Sansepolcro and appears as a naturalistic element dividing the two armies in the Battle between Constantine and Maxentius in the Arezzo frescoes, is described with particular affection and devotion by the English writer G. M. Trevelyan: “This reach of the great river, where it first leaves its mountains cradle, has a peculiar effect on the imagination...the line of a poplar wood shading the course of the Tiber...a clear stream of the blue and silver eddies”. The ilex-cloaked hills that form the background to the scene showing the Queen of Sheba appears to have been a landscape very dear to Piero, a memory linked to the artist’s childhood between the Val Cerfone and the Val Padonchia, between which was the birthplace of his mother, Monterchi, famous for the celebrated fresco of the Madonna del Parto.

The ploughed fields, the hills seen from the heights of Anghiari appearing like hillocks of colour, shifting with the change of the seasons, are arranged with graceful harmony and give the observer a sense of calm and grace. These are the same sensations that we perceive before the landscape of the Adoration of the Wood in the Arezzo cycle, or in the background of the Resurrection in Sansepolcro.

Rolex Cup Event

The Rolex Cup, the prestigious event that epitomizes Italy’s sailing tradition is back again with fabulous Capri serving as the set. Organized by Italy’s most famous yacht clubs, the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda and the Yacht Club Capri, this is truly a not-to-be-missed appointment for fans of sailing and the sea.

Cycling Through Lucca

The bicycle and the natural and historical sceneries of evocative beauty form a splendid union - ecological tourism along side visiting the most charming historical and naturalistic places in an area of Tuscany - is what the cycle tourist route project ' The Routes of the Panther' is based on. On the network with this project there are the information offices, farm holidays and equipped receptive structures, businesses that sell specific products, service points, maintenance and custody of the bicycles. Structures where tourists can rent bicycles and satellite navigators.

Bicycling is year-round. For more information, check web site www.panterabike.com

Exploits in Rome --- Top Tips For Planning a Trip to Italy

Can you fall head over heels in love with a city? If Rome were a woman, she’d seduce you with her ageless beauty, mysterious secrets and her zest for life. If Rome were a man, he’d embrace you with his majestic strength, enduring artistry and romantic charm. It’s a potent combination of romance, relics and ruins that makes Italy one of the top 3 Western European destinations for Americans.

Anthony Capozzoli, author of the new book and CD audio guide, “UNABELLAVISTA ROME: How to Tour Italy,” fell in love with Italy at a young age. His must-see sights always include museum tours.  “I think Rome is a spellbinding city that woos you with a magical elixir of breathtaking art and architecture,” says Capozzoli. “When you try to quantify the number of masterpieces housed in Rome it’s awe inspiring. You don’t have to be an art aficionado to marvel at the gifted work of masters such as Michelangelo.”

Sure, while we love the masterpieces and the sense of history that permeates the air, let’s not ignore Rome’s siren call of fine shopping that beckons fashionistas who crave the supple caress of a fine leather shoe or handbag. Oh, and did we mention the food and the wine? What’s not to love!

“To really explore a city, you need to travel independently and look for the local attractions—not just the tourist traps,” says Capozzoli. “Find a restaurant that looks and smells wonderful then defer to your server’s expertise. That’s how you get the best authentic dishes. The same applies for your entire experience. Just embrace the culture and they’ll want to guide you.”

To truly enjoy Italy, you need to plan accordingly to avoid the common aggravations that can dampen overseas travel. Here are some key tips to make the most of your visit:

· Be respectful and try to speak some Italian; it will inspire locals to guide you

· Buy train tickets/rail passes online (this helps ensure you understand the rail system)

· Book museum reservations online so you don’t waste time standing in line

· Call your credit card company to inform them of your trip ahead of time so they don’t think overseas charges are fraudulent

· When packing, less is more

· Bring an empty duffel bag to carry souvenirs home

· Bring extra digital camera memory cards and/or film and batteries for your camera; they’re expensive in Italy

· Rent a mobile phone if you want to be reached

· Grab your hotel’s card with the phone number and address to help you find your way back; remember to add the major sight or piazza the hotel is near to aid in directions

· Bring electrical adaptors for your hair dryer, iPod, camera or anything that needs electricity

· Keep a color copy of your passport picture page in your money belt; hide your passports in your hotel room or hotel safe

· Consider renting an apartment instead of booking a four star hotel

· Don’t flash your cash and NEVER leave your camera or purse unattended


For more information on Capozzoli's book, UNABELLAVISTA: ROME How to Tour Italy, Guidebook and CD (Bella Industries Publishing 2007; 161 pp. paperback, $18.95) contact your local bookstore or go online at www.amazon.com.

About the author:

Anthony Capozzoli is a Chicago Native whose family hails from Campagna and Sicily. He grew up strongly influenced by his family’s Italian heritage and developed a deep love for Italy. Capozzoli has researched Italy his entire life and he relied on that research to map out an incredible itinerary for his maiden voyage to Rome 6 years ago. When Capozzoli returned home, his friends were so inspired by his visit they asked Capozzoli to plan a trip to Rome for them--with a complete itinerary. What started out as a favor for his friends, grew into something much bigger than Capozzoli ever anticipated. He’s since published “UNABELLAVISTA ROME,” a guidebook for the city of Rome along with a CD audio guide. He’s now working on a second guide book: “UNABELLAVISTA FLORENCE.”

A graduate of the University of Iowa, Capozzoli ultimately plans to divide his time between Italy and the United States.

For more information visit www.unabellavista.com

ILLA LETIZA

A short walk from a medieval village in Tuscany is a beautifully restored 17th Century villa, set on a hillside overlooking spectacular terraced formal gardens.
The surrounding countryside of olive groves, vineyards, sunflower fields and medieval villages frame your quintessential Tuscan experience. This idyllic retreat accommodates 18 persons in nine bedrooms and is perfect for a family or group of friends. The villa's comfortably elegant interior spans three sprawling floors and retains the original characteristics with barrel-vaulted ceilings, frescoes, antique furnishings and an elevator for easy access. The large formal living room — one of several sitting rooms — features a grand piano and an enormous fireplace. The country kitchen is outfitted to compliment the best of chefs, and several outdoor living areas and a swimming pool offer a variety of options for dining alfresco and other leisurely indulgences. On request professional chefs and other services are available.

Situated in the heart of Tuscany, you'll beright in the middle of it all, with fabulous excursions and day trips to Tuscany's renowned cities and sites just a car ride away including Pisa (30 minutes), Lucca (55 minutes), San Gimignano (90 minutes), Florence (55 minutes), Siena (60 minutes), beaches at Cinque Terre (90 minutes), and the spa with thermal water baths in Bagni di Casciana (15 minutes).
And if you think the location exceeds your expectations, just wait until you experience the personalized service that makes Villas and Apartments Abroad the preferred supplier to the world's savviest travelers.

US $10,400 to US $12,586 USD per week for 13/20 persons. 
US $7,300 to US $9,400 per week for 1/12 persons

For more information contact 183 Madison Avenue., Suite 201 • New York, NY 10016 • PH 212.213.6435 • FAX 212.213.8252; e-mail villas@vaanyc.com, or check web sitewww.vaanyc.com

Terme Disaturnia Spa & Golf Resort's Mediterranean Lifestyle Mantra Reverberates in its Inventive On-Site Restaurants

Located at the base of the medieval village of Saturnia, in the heart of the Tuscan Maremma region of Italy, Terme di Saturnia Spa & Golf Resort has incorporated the healthful and beneficial properties of the “Mediterranean Lifestyle” in its culinary program at is on-site restaurants Ristorante Aqualuce and Ristorante all’Acquacotta.  

Dishes are rich in antioxidant elements and omega-3, known to reduce the risk of cancer, diabetes and heart disease, and incorporate the elements of a well-balanced diet including high protein meats and high fiber fruits and vegetables.

Created by Executive Chef Pierluigi Marani, the healthy menus contain fresh fruits and vegetables, grains, meat, fish and olive oil, all of which are abundant in the southern Tuscany region with its close proximity to the Mediterranean waters and farms lands. Providing a sensible diet is a fundamental element in achieving the “Mediterranean Lifestyle,” which is defined as an equal combination of a balanced life, physical activity and a healthy diet.  The promotion of a fulfilling and healthy lifestyle is the philosophy and overall objective of the Terme di Saturnia experience. The resort aims to provide each guest with the core principals of the Mediterranean Lifestyle, which can be incorporated into their daily lives upon departure.  

Terme di Saturnia’s newest restaurant, all’Acquacotta, is the perfect choice for classic Tuscan dining with its selection of traditional and seasonal Tuscan fare such as Crostini Misti Toscani, mixed Tuscan canapés and choices rich in protein including Pappardelle al Sugo di Cinghiale, large egg noodles with wild boar sauce, and Bistecca di Chianina alla Fiorentina, Florentine T-bone steak of “Chianina” beef.  For dessert, pastry chefs Riccardo Cantonetti and Salvatore Longo offer tempestuous selections including Paradiso al Cioccolato in Salsa alla Vaniglia, chocolate cake in vanilla sauce, a selection of Tuscan cheeses accompanied by homemade marmalades and much more.

Ristorante Aqualuce, Terme di Saturnia’s second on-site restaurant, features sophisticated and innovative dishes selected from international, Italian, Tuscan and Vegetarian recipes. From high protein Wild Boar Salami and Black Olives and Melon Cold Soup with Raspberries Vinegar to Coquilles de Saint Jacques with Rice, Curry, Shrimp and Pumpkin Flowers and fresh fish choices with omega-3 to help reduce cholesterol such as Sea Bass with Toasted Bread, Potatoes Mignon and Grill-Fired Leek, this eclectic menu offers cuisine to please even the most discerning palate. In addition, Ristorante Aqualuce offers a special Chef’s Dinner and Spa Menu.  

A true medical spa with a staff of 45 therapists and five medical doctors, Terme di Saturnia Spa & Golf Resort features therapies for beauty, stress management and thermal and hydrotherapy treatments based on the area’s unique thermal waters which date back to the Etruscan period. The 3,000-year old thermal pool has been flowing continuously into the natural crater nestled at the center of the resort, containing precious minerals and salts which were found to have healing effects on aches and pains of the ancient Romans.

Terme di Saturnia features a 3,000 year-old thermal pool, 140 guestrooms, including 65 junior suites and eight suites, state-of-the-art spa with 60 treatment rooms, two restaurants, an Aldo Coppola Hair Salon, a conference center with meeting room for up to 250 people, six outdoor and two indoor pools, a replica of a traditional Roman bath house, fitness center, tennis court, putting green and driving range, Cruciani Cashmere Boutique, and an 18-hole golf course that will be completed by the end of 2007.

The property has created the Mediterranean Lifestyle Package featuring cuisine, activities, therapies and treatments along with a program guests can follow.

Mediterranean Lifestyle Package Includes:

Four nights accommodation in a junior suite for two

Breakfast featuring local products served daily

One Specific Face Treatment, Full Body Massage, Four-Hand Massage Shower

Complimentary use of thermal pools, Roman Bath, reserved deckchair in the pool’s park, tennis court, golf-driving range, bikes, gym equipment

Afternoon tour to surrounding towns in Tuscan Maremma

Guided morning hikes

One complimentary bottle of wine served with dinner

One complimentary dinner at the resort’s Tuscan restaurant All’Acquacotta

Welcome gift

Airport transfers

Cost
Mediterranean Lifestyle Package
€ 2,974
$ 4,100*

All guests receive complimentary use of:
·         Use of thermal pools
·         Use of Roman Bath with sauna and steam bath
·         Golf driving range
·         Guided morning hike
·         Use of thermal water falls
·         Reserved deck chair and sun umbrella in the pool’s park
·         Use of the gym, classes not included

Rates are per couple based on a double occupancy for three nights. Rates are subject to availability.

Conversion rates to American Dollars are subject to change. Cost savings are calculated based on standard rates and package contents.

To book a stay at Terme di Saturnia or for more information on the resort visit www.termedisaturnia.com or call +39 0564 600111.

Tuscan Coast and the islands of the Archipelago

The sea is one of the principal tourist resources of Tuscany.

That is why, for some time now, the promotional strategies introduced by the various public and private sector operators focus on valorising the coast and the inland area. The wealth of environmental and natural resources, cultural events, opportunities to taste the food and the wine and the important historical and archaeological heritage found here, contribute to creating a new, integrated tourist product.

In 1998, in order to make tourist marketing and communication more effective, the Provinces, the Municipalities of the major cities and Tourist Boards of the Tuscan coast decided to create a promotional project, identifying the “Tuscan Coast” as a new and attractive tourist destination.

The project aims to promote the Tyrrhenian coast as a unique product capable of enhancing its characteristic features, while simultaneously maintaining and valorising all the diversities of this area, which stretches from the mouth of the Magra river to the border with the Lazio region. The Project has the goal of highlighting the most outstanding cultural, environmental and enogastronomic offerings in terms of tourist appeal and subsequent increase in tourist numbers along the entire Tyrrhenian Coast.

The Tuscan Coast and the islands of the Archipelago has therefore been conceived as an innovative tourist product, which does not represent simply the sum of all the promotional initiatives of the various partners, which, in any case, will continue to have a life of their own, but is capable of valorising the cultural and environmental resources which are most appealing in tourism terms in a coordinated and harmonious way, qualifying a system of highly diversified accommodation and linking the Tuscan coast with the inland area, with its wealth of artistic, historical and natural treasures, through tourist routes and itineraries.

The Tuscan Coast and the islands of the Archipelago, overcoming localism, will satisfy the needs of those seeking diversified and qualified products, will allow greater visibility and competitiveness of the territory on national and international tourist markets and will boost circulation of tourist flows throughout the territory.

The project is coordinated by the Livorno Province and involves the coast and the inland area of the territories of the Tourist Boards of Massa-Carrara, Versilia, Pisa, Livorno, Maremma and the Tuscan Archipelago.

The institutional partners of the project since 2004 are: Tuscany Region, the ‘Toscana Promozione’ Regional Agency, the five coastal Provinces, the five Chambers of Commerce, the six coastal Tourist Boards (ApT) and the Municipalities of Massa, Carrara, Viareggio, Pisa, Livorno and Grosseto, which have signed a three-year protocol.

In 2003, the institutional partners signed an operating agreement with 13 Tourist Consortia. 

·    reacquiring competitiveness on national and international tourist markets

·    creating a quality tourist system on the Tuscan Coast, including through improved quality of the overall offer and the quality/price ratio

·    extending seasonality: “a tourism for all seasons” and lengthening the average stay during high-season periods

·    integrating the “sea as a resource” with the various characteristics and specific features of the inland area, through segmentation of the overall offer into specific products, developing new market niches: environmental, spa and wellness tourism, sports, cultural, food and wine and congressional tourism.

·    increasing the degree of satisfaction and loyalty of the final customer

·    circulation of tourist flows throughout the territory

·    involvement and cooperation of all members of the Project

On the basis of the most recent strategic operating plans, the Project activities have been focused above all on diversification of the overall offer of the Tuscan Coast into specific products, with reference to the principal products which have been identified as strategic:

seaside tourism

sports tourism

food and wine tourism

cultural/artistic tourism

On the basis of these products, actions have been taken to promote and support marketing through the main channels/means available to the project, i.e.: the www.tuscancoast.com portal; specific publications; promotional videos; co-marketing with low-cost travel companies; promotional actions abroad and in Italy.

The actions abroad have been planned in an attempt to develop a specific project for each country, in which individual initiatives have been integrated in turn and have reinforced the overall visibility of the coastal area.

Spas of Tuscany

In the last few years, Tuscan thermal spas have undergone significant changes, making them global market leaders in their sector. Tuscan spas have a great tradition and provide excellent health benefits for ailments such as rheumatism, breathing difficulties and circulation problems.  An increased sensitivity to wellness is the basis for recent structural and technological innovations.  The great professionalism of our doctors and spa operators has transformed Tuscan spas into world renowned tourist destinations.

Tuscan spas are located in some of Italy’s most beautiful countryside.  Visitors will enjoy not only fine wines and the highest standards of Italian gastronomy but also excursions to nearby sites of cultural and artistic interest.  With competitive prices on several flights to both Pisa and Florence, a short holiday in Tuscany could almost be cheaper than staying at home.

Some of the Tuscan spas draw VIP clientele from around the world, attracted by the excellent quality of their structures and services.  We are all very excited about Terme Villa Borri near Pisa which reopened in April 2007 after a major re-fit.  The most celebrated thermal destination in Tuscany is of course Montecatni , immortalised in Federico Fellini’s famous film “8 1⁄2”, which epitomises the good life or “la dolce vita”.   Located near to Pistoia, Montecatini Terme has many hotels and boasts impressive art nouveau architecture.  British visitors might enjoy a stay in Terme Bagni Di Lucca which ahs been a favourite with the English since the nineteenth century.

If you like the seaside, stay on the Tuscan coast at Terme Della Versilia, Villa Undulna, with an excellent seafood restaurant near to Forte dei Marmi.  If you prefer to enjoy Tuscany’s lovely rolling hills, go further inland to Termi Di Montepulciano or Terme Di Sanfilippo near Siena.  Also near Siena are the big thermal pools of San Giovanni Di Rapolano and Antica Queciolaia.   This is a sensational spa to visit in the winter especially because the waters have a temperature between 35 and 50 degrees.

There have been two new developments.  In September of this year, one of the most elegant spas, Terme Di Chianciano, has inaugurated a new spa for the senses.  The visitor can balance mind and body relaxation in flavored pools, Turkish baths or saunas with thermal showers, scented mud and a large naturopathy centre.

Terme Villa Borri in Casciana Terme near Pisa opened in April 2007.  The spa is located in an eighteenth century patrician villa decorated with exquisite antique frescoes.  Visitors can enjoy the soothing waters of three thermal pools, fireplace massages and special “baths for the soul”.  It is possible to stay in one of 22 holiday apartments decorated in typical Tuscany style with independent kitchen, allowing total freedom and privacy together with the services of a grand hotel with restaurant and private covered parking.

Tuscany’s thermal spas are ideal for an all inclusive stay for 2 or 3 days, midweek or longer periods.  There is a wide range of possibilities. For details and more information, check web site www.termeditoscana.com  with links to individual spa websites.  Life is challenging and stressful enough – a relaxing spa holiday in Tuscany is the ideal opportunity to find serenity and to discover our traditional and harmonious lifestyle.

Hot Air Balloon Experience Across Tuscany With Terme Di Saturnia

Located at the foot of the medieval Tuscan village of Saturnia, Terme di Saturnia Spa & Golf Resort is surrounded by picturesque and natural, untamed scenery. The exclusive spa and resort is introducing a new Saturnia Extravagance Package to let guests enjoy the best the spa has to offer, including world-class spa treatments, exclusive use of the 3,000 year old thermal pools and a unique trip in a hot air balloon over the rolling hills of the Tuscan Maremma region of Italy.

The vantage point of a hot air balloon is an ideal and romantic way to experience the Tuscan Maremma, an area known as one of the most beautiful regions of Italy. Floating high above the rolling hills during this two-hour journey, guests will be able to soak in the sights and sounds of Italy’s famed region known for its breath-taking countryside with sprawling vineyards and rolling hills dotted with olive-trees. This unique region offers a range of landscapes from sienna-brown hills, sprawling vineyards, coastal areas, lush mountains, sand dunes, marshlands and forests filled with exquisite hill-top villages, medieval castles, Etruscan necropolises and ancient Roman ruins, all visible from the bird’s eye view of a hot air balloon.

The resort, owned and operated by Manuli Resort S.r.l., features 140 guestrooms, including 65 junior suites and eight suites, state-of-the-art spa with 60 treatment rooms, two restaurants, a conference center with meeting room for up to 250 people, six outdoor and two indoor pools, a replica of a traditional Roman bath house, fitness center, tennis court, practice green, boutique and art gallery, and an 18-hole golf course that will be completed by the end of 2007.

A true medical spa with a staff of 45 therapists and five medical doctors, the spa features therapies for beauty, stress management and thermal and hydrotherapy treatments based on the area’s unique thermal waters which date back to the Etruscan period. The 3,000-year old thermal pool has been flowing continuously into the natural crater nestled at the center of the resort, containing precious minerals and salts which were found to have healing effects on aches and pains of the ancient Romans.

To help guests indulge in the pleasures that Terme di Saturnia offers, the resort is presenting the Saturnia Extravagance Package which pairs therapies and treatments based on the natural and thermal healing waters of the spa with an extravagant adventure through the surrounding region. The three night package includes:

Saturnia Extravagance Package

· Three nights accommodation in a Junior Suite

· Breakfast served in the restaurant daily

· Fruit and Champagne in room upon arrival

· One Specific Face Treatment, Full Body Massage, Four-Hand Massage Shower

· Complimentary use of thermal pools, Roman Bath, tennis court, golf-driving range, guided morning hikes, bikes, gym equipment

· Exclusive hot air balloon trip for two*

Cost

Cost Savings**

Saturnia Extravagance Package

$ 1,547

$ 235 or 13 percent

Rates are per person based on double occupancy with a minimum and maximum stay requirement of three nights

Rates are subject to change
Conversion rate to American Dollarsis subject to changes.

* The flight is subject to change based on inclement weather and will be determined based on the pilot’s discretion. In the event of a cancellation, an alternative activity of the same value will be arranged.

** Cost savings are calculated based on standard rates and package contents

To book the Saturnia Extravagance Package or for more information on the resort web site www.termedisaturnia.com or call +39 0564 600111.


Terme di Saturnia is an exclusive resort and member of Leading Hotels of the World located in the heart of the Tuscan Maremma region of Italy in the medieval village of Saturnia. The resort is owned and operated by Manuli Resort S.r.l. The four-star hotel consists of 140 rooms, which includes 8 suites and 65 junior suites, two restaurants, two bars, fitness center, a meeting room for up to 250 people, and the 3,000-year-old thermal pool nestled in the center of the resort. Terme di Saturnia is a leading spa resort dedicated to providing quality spa treatments and to promote complete well being has 60 rooms for beauty, stress management, thermal and hydrotherapy treatments.

The spa also offers diet and fitness programs.

For more information,check web site www.termedisaturnia.com.

LUXEMBOURG

Luxembourg and a showering of nearby regions are collaborating to make 2007 one of the most timely themed and innovative culture capitals of Europe.

The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg’s theme for 2007 focuses on migration, crossing borders and cultural cooperation. And the program’s Pan European implementation drives home the concept. More than 400 projects will spread beyond the Grand Duchy to include the Saar and Rhineland-Palatinate in Germany, the Lorraine in France and the Walloon Region in Belgium.  Kick off events began in December 2006 in the City of Luxembourg

“It is the first time a European Capital of Culture will expand beyond one city or one country,” according to Brigitte Goergen, Director of the Luxembourg National Tourist Office in North America. The Luxembourg and Greater Region, European Capital of Culture 2007 will cover 25,100 square miles (about three times the size of New Jersey) in the heart of Europe, home to approximately 11.2 million people.
Luxembourg will welcome the year-long event with the inauguration of new cultural infrastructures, major exhibitions, world premieres of musical productions, theater plays and choreographies, projects for children, and community endeavors. More than 130 cross border projects underscore Luxembourg’s convenient location -- in the very heart of Europe.

A new Musee d’Art Moderne Grand-Duc Jean (MUDAM), designed by I.M. Pei, the famous Sino-American architect, is among several important investments Luxembourg has made in anticipation of wearing the culture crown in 2007. Other recent developments: opening of the philharmonic concert hall by Christian de Portzamparc and restoration of the Rotondes, two former roundhouses built as repair stations for locomotives, which are now impressive venues for exhibitions and performances.

A host of gifted artists and performers have been engaged for a full roster of cultural year events. There will also be a major exhibition exploring migrations and globalization by the high-profile curator Hou Hanru.

For schedules and details about Luxembourg and Greater Region, European Capital of Culture 2010 and for information about traveling to Luxembourg check web site www.visitluxembourg.com; e-mail info@visitluxembourg.com, or phone 212.935.8888

RUSSIA

Fashion Dining in Moscow -- The Apple Bar & Restaurant of the Golden Apple Boutique Hotel in Moscow opens its doors

A new scene for trendy dining in Moscow is now ready at the Golden Apple, an Avantgarde Superior Boutique Hotel. After its two-month renovation, the Apple Bar & Restaurant is the best kept dining secret in the centre of Moscow.

The Restaurant offers a wide assortment of simple and tasty European dishes with an emphasis on fresh and high quality products. All served in the contemporary atmosphere of harmony and fashion that is typical of the Golden Apple Hotel.

The lunch and dinner menus adjust with seasonal changes and include a choice of genuine gourmet specialties supplemented by an impressive and carefully selected wine list.

With its comfortable and fashionable setting, the Apple Bar is a chic and intimate lounge serving classical and original cocktails prepared by mixing seasonal fruits, berries and herbs. The Apple Bar is an ideal setting for drinks, conversation and people-watching in the very heart of Moscow.

Centrally located near the city's top shopping and dining venues, theatres and art galleries, museums and night clubs, the Golden Apple Hotel offers an unsurpassed hotel experience to the stylish business and leisure traveller.

The Golden Apple Hotel is located at 11 Malaya Dmitrovka Street Moscow 127006 Russia.

About Epoque Hotels:

Epoque Hotels is a collection of worldwide avant-garde, trendy-chic, and luxury-classic boutique hotels based in over 100 destinations. With its 300 hotels in its portfolio, divided in two lines: Avantgarde Line and Epoque Classic, it is rapidly establishing itself as the leading reference in the segment of boutique hotels.
Headquartered in Miami, the Company has also sales offices in Italy, UK and France.

For more information check web site www.epoquehotels.com

There's a touch of magic at Rocco Forte’s Hotel Astoria in St Petersburg.  The city becomes a winter wonderland during the colder months with a dusting of sparkling snow on historic monuments and traditional troika rides through the parks of the tsar’s palaces. Guests of the hotel can stay warm with an authentic Russian vodka in the hotel’s Kandinsky Bar. Hotel Astoria’s New Year’s Eve package includes:

For further information and reservations please visit the Rocco Forte Hotels web sitewww.roccofortehotels.com or call The Leading Hotels of the World at 1-800-223-6800.

Rocco Forte Hotels was established in 1996 to create a collection of luxury hotels in Europe. The hotels have individual styles ranging from traditional to contemporary, with each hotel reflecting its nationality and location. The collection is linked together under the Rocco Forte Hotels brand, which guarantees attention to detail, quality and service delivery.

The Rocco Forte Hotels collection includes:
- Hotel de Rome, Berlin
- Hotel de Russie, Rome
- Hotel Savoy, Florence
- The Balmoral, Edinburgh
- The St David’s Hotel & Spa, Cardiff
- The Lowry Hotel, Manchester
- Hotel Astoria, St Petersburg
- Hotel Amigo, Brussels
- Brown’s Hotel, London
- Villa Kennedy, Frankfurt
- Château de Bagnols, en Beaujolais (managed on behalf of Lady Hamlyn)

SARDINIA

COSTA SMERALDA, SARDINIA

An earthly paradise in the northeastern part of Sardinia, Costa Smeralda is a Mediterranean resort whose name is inspired by the emerald color of the sea. Providing an exceptional 34 mile coastline, Costa Smeralda is accessible almost exclusively by sea and is characterized by incredible rock formations and white beaches. It is a true jet and yacht setters paradise.

Hotel Cala di Volpe Recognized by Wine Spectator Magazine

Starwood’s Hotel Cala di Volpe is considered the symbol of Costa Smeralda, built like an ancient village in one of its most beautiful bays. Hotel Cala di Volpe offers a total of 125 guestrooms and suites are designed in natural wood with textiles in traditional Sardinian style and most of them have beautiful trompe d’oeil paintings and panoramic views. An exclusive two floor Presidential Suite with private pool on the terrace offers a wide range of recreational facilities and an exclusive wine cellar. The hotel offers a private beach, the largest sea-water pool in Europe, and two of the most spectacular restaurants in the area. Recently, Hotel Cala di Volpe was honored with the “Best of Award of Excellence” for having the world’s best wine list according to Wine Spectator. Hotel Cala di Volpe was also recognized in 2005 by Condé Nast Traveler as having the best Mediterranean recipes as well as an extensive selection of cuisine options.

SCOTLAND

Yes, the Scots are a sociable people. Yes, the Scots have a reputation for being able to turn the most mundane occasion into a fun-infused celebration. And yes, that reputation is well-earned. But when it comes time to do business, the Scots are able to shift focus to that arena with equal enthusiasm.

Take Scotland's accommodations, for instance. They are undeniably welcoming, but they also know how to tend to business groups. There are landmark grand hotels, such as Edinburgh's Balmoral or Caledonian, whose stately facades are a part of the capital city's character. There are elegant country resorts such as Gleneagles or Westin Turnberry that have played host to international dignitaries and PGA legends. All offer state-of-the-art facilities, technical expertise and a level of efficiency that makes even the most demanding attendees feel at home.

Scotland offers an equally diverse array of venues, each as efficient as it is unique.

A whisky distillery can host a VIP tasting. Dine on the Queen's (retired) private ship, the Royal Yacht Britannia. Deliver a presentation in Assembly Hall, a 19th century tiered auditorium that was once home to the Scottish Parliament. Even the Edinburgh Castle itself  can accommodate a business reception. Many of Scotland's outstanding museums, universities and other attractions are available for private functions, as well.

Of course, the thing that will impress you and your attendees most about Scotland are the Scots themselves. It is their embracing spirit–whether participating in business or otherwise–that truly sets Scotland apart.

For more information, contact the Business Tourism Unit, Visit Scotland, Ocean point One, 94 Ocean Drive, Edinburgh EH6 6JH.

SPAIN

Landmark Historic Hotel becomes the First New Member of 2007

Preferred Hotels Group is pleased to announce that The Hotel Majestic, a five-star luxury property located in downtown Barcelona, Spain, has joined the membership of Preferred Hotels & Resorts. Featuring more than 150 exceptional hotels and resorts in the most desirable locations around the world, Preferred Hotels & Resorts is a member of the Preferred Hotel Group family of brands, which celebrates the individuality of its properties and honors the preferences of its guests.

The prestigious and historic Majestic Hotel, located on “Passeig de Grácia” in the center of the shopping and financial district of the city, became Preferred Hotel Group’s newest member on January 1, 2007, and its first property on the Iberian Peninsula. With 303 elegant rooms, 273 executive rooms, 22 junior suites and eight luxury suites, the hotel is affectionately know as “the Art Hotel,” showcasing an impressive art collection, which guests can admire throughout every corner of the hotel. Equally impressive is the hotel’s list of famed guests, including the Dalai Lama, Jean Paul Belmondo, Catherine Deneuve, Milos Forman, and Latin America’s celebrated novelist, Vargas Llosa.

The Majestic is home to The Drolma, one of Barcelona’s most popular fine dining restaurants, which has consistently been awarded one star by the Michelin Guide since 2002. The Drolma has also been the recipient of “The Best of Dining” Award for the Restaurant with the Best Product in Spain 2002, the Gourmetour Award for the Best Maitre in Spain 2003, and has received three “Suns” in the Campsa since 2004.

Another spectacular amenity to this five-star property is the rooftop swimming pool and bar located on the tenth floor of the hotel. Whether the intention is to unwind with cocktails, or cool off in the pool, the panoramic view from the rooftop is one of the best spots in Barcelona to admire the city.

“What a way to start off 2007,” said John Ueberroth, Chairman and CEO of Preferred Hotel Group. “We welcome the addition of The Hotel Majestic, and are proud to claim this Barcelona landmark as a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts.”

All Preferred Hotels & Resorts embrace the award-winning Standards of Excellence™, an extensive 1,600 item annual quality assurance program that has been honored with the “Best Practices Champion Award” by Cornell University. This legendary commitment to quality ensures an unparalleled guest experience, from top-tier amenities to superb service.

Preferred Hotel Group is a global leader in the hospitality industry. This creative, cutting-edge company is designed for a new era in travel - an era in which travelers embrace the individuality of distinctive hotels and resorts - yet desire a consistent commitment to excellence. The four brands of Preferred Hotel Group represent a collection of the finest hotels in the world and include Preferred Hotels® & Resorts (www.preferredhotels.com); Preferred Boutique (www.preferred-boutique.com); Summit Hotels & Resorts (www.summithotels.com); and Sterling Hotels (www.sterlinghotels.com).

For more information, check web site www.preferredhotelgroup.com.

SWITZERLAND

Switzerland's Park hotel Weggis' Restaurant Annex Receives the Highly-Coveted Michelin Star Rating

The five-star, 53-room Park Hotel Weggis, a Relais & Châteaux property located in the picturesque lakeside Village of Weggis in Central Switzerland on the spectacular Lake Lucerne, is proud to announce that its leading gourmet restaurant, Annex, has been awarded one Michelin star in the 2008 Swiss edition of the renowned Michelin Guide.

Restaurant Annex received the distinguished Michelin star after mastering the five standards set forth by the Michelin Guide including;  excellent quality, mastery of flavor and cooking, value, “personality” of the cuisine and consistency. Although nearly 2,000 restaurants throughout Switzerland were recommended to the world’s most respected dining guide, the highly prestigious honor was bestowed upon only 84 restaurants in Swiss cities such as Geneva, Zurich, Bern and Lucerne.

Under the direction of Chef Renee Rischmeyer, Restaurant Annex offers a vast selection of light and aromatic gourmet cuisine. The restaurant specializes in traditional French culinary faire while blending influences from Asia and the Mediterranean. Signature dishes include Gratinated Scallops on Ox Tail Ragout and Macadamia Nuts and Loup de Mer on Citrus Fruit Risotto with Octopus and Fennel. For his innovative cuisine, Chef Rischmeyer, who directs the Restaurant Annex’s culinary staff, selects market fresh seasonal products to incorporate in each of his dishes. In addition to its exquisite culinary offerings, Park Hotel Weggis also has one of the most exclusive wine lists in Switzerland with approximately 2,600 labels in-house, which are overseen by the award-winning sommelier Christian Bock.
Newly refurbished Park Hotel Weggis offers 53 guestrooms and suites, including the uniquely designed Adara Suites featuring unadulterated views of Lake Lucerne, luxurious baths and amenities, in-room wine coolers and the latest in technology. Tibetan private spa cottages, Tibetan themed spa treatment rooms and therapies and Japanese gardens provide a tranquil respite in which to unwind. The refurbishment features the incorporation of modern day luxury design and style in the original hotel structure that housed the Mark Twain and Queen Victoria Suites. Award-winning fine-dining restaurants,

The Grape, Sparks and The Annex offer fusion cuisine and ambience in an atmosphere of elegance and high style. The signature Aquarius Hall is the perfect venue in which to create unique occasions with its glass panels and specially designed lighting executed in Murano glass by Philippe Starck. A century-old restored Vinothek hosts private wine pairings and approximately 2,600 labels lovingly overseen by award-winning sommelier Christian Bock. The hotel is open year-round.

For information and reservations contact Park Hotel Weggis at www.parkhotelweggis.com or mailto:info@phw.ch> or 011-41-2-41-392-05-05. 

Rates from CHF 170 ($151 USD) for Parc double room (standard) to CHF 1,000 ($986 USD) for Adara Two-Bedroom suite with lake views and balcony. Rates are per guest per night and include service and VAT but exclude tourist tax of CHF 2.50 ($2.22 USD). U.S. conversion rates as of December 10, 2007 and subject to change. 

The Park Hotel Weggis is a five-star member of Relais & Chateaux situated on the banks of Lake Lucerne just 30 minutes from Lucerne and one hour from Zurich. Founded in 1875 as the Hotel Bellevue by Wilhelm Strassli, the hotel is owned by M20-Immobilien AG and managed by Peter Kämpfer. Hotel Park Weggis features 53 guestrooms and suites, a sparkling wellness facility, private spa cottages, a state-of-the-art event hall, an authentic Vinothek with 2,600 labels of wine, the most extensive in Switzerland and recipient of 2005-2007 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, 3 award-winning restaurants including 15 points Gault Millau Gourmet Restaurant Annex, an infinity pool and is situated in the village of Weggis on Lake Lucerne with views of Mts. Rigi and Pilatus - considered the Mediterranean of Switzerland. Long established as the Jewel on Lake Lucerne the hotel has once again reclaimed its position after an extensive refurbishment program combining its original Art Nouveau façade with a new sleek design, modern day luxury elements and technology.

Park hotel Weggis Special -- Uncork Rare Vintages at Switzerland's Lakeside Gem

Located in the picturesque lakeside Village of Weggis in Central Switzerland with mountain views of Mts. Pilatus and Rigi, the luxury, five-star, 53-room Park Hotel Weggis boasts one of the most extensive wine collections in all of Switzerland. With 2,600 premier wine labels, including absolute rarities, all housed in its authentic Vinothek wine cellar, Park Hotel Weggis provides guests who wish to host both large and small wine functions an unparalleled experience in a truly unique venue and a spectacular location.

Encouraging guests to experience the rich savor of life, Park Hotel Weggis has completed restoration of its exceptional vaulted wine cellar providing an exclusive venue for events. Formerly a storage room with hooks on the ceiling for hanging items, the ancient cellar was carefully restored to its former splendor. The brick lined vaulted cellar includes originally restored walls dating back more than 130 years, and the ceiling in the foyer of the Vinothek is made of original materials gathered from a small farmhouse from the region of Emmental.

The 2,600 labels housed in the cellar are stored according to countries and the storage area is kept at a constant temperature with and humidity to provide ideal storing conditions.

With Christian Bock, award winning sommelier, presiding over the Vinothek, guests are assured private wine functions will be paired with premium wines of the finest vintages. The venue offers small and larger private wine tasting and formal dining options, and can accommodate up to 30 seated guests.

The property also boasts its own wine trade with “Vinothek im Park” or “Vinothek in the Park,” run by managing director Christian Bock, where guests can find rare vintages to add to their own personal collections, or simply select the perfect wine to take home with them. Offering wines from around the world, Vinothek im Park provides a selection of exquisite wines from the highest quality of vineyards across a range of price categories to suit each person’s needs.

The passion and love of wine flows throughout the property, as guests will also delight in sipping fine vintages without having to leave the comfort of their luxurious rooms. In each of the property’s 10 newly constructed Adara suites, a specially constructed wine cabinet offer guests with rarities such as Premier Grand Cru Classé from Bordeaux, Château d’Yquem and the legendary “Grange” Australian wines. In addition to the in-room wine cabinets, the Adara suites feature state-of-the-art technology, signature amenities, generous living areas, custom-designed marble baths with oversized soaking tubs and rain showers along with spacious terraces looking out to Lake Lucerne.

The hotel’s vast wine offerings can be enjoyed in on of the property’s three distinct restaurants, The Grape, Restaurant Annex and Restaurant Sparks. Each offers superb cuisine and unique atmospheres in which to sip the fine vintages. The Grape restaurant features an extensive selection of wines from California’s Napa Valley paired with expertly grilled steaks, Restaurant Annex offers gourmet French cuisine with Asian and Mediterranean influences, and Restaurant Sparks offers light and modern dishes based on a concept uniting art and design with market fresh flavors. Through Vinothek im Park, the wines are also available for guests to make direct purchases and enjoy upon returning home and can be ordered.

In addition to the Adara Suites and three fine-dining restaurants, the recent renovation program included the addition of six private Asian-inspired spa cottages containing treatment area, sauna, whirlpool, blossom bath, Kneipp spring, and solarium and foot bath. The property also offers a full-service spa featuring Tibetan treatments and therapies and Japanese gardens which provide guests with a tranquil respite. To accommodate larger social and banqueting needs aside from the Vinothek, the hotel has added Aquarius Hall, a glass enclosed venue offering the latest technology including a unique lighting system.

Park Hotel Weggis is welcoming discerning travelers to the property with exceptional rates of just CHF 235 ($213USD) for Parc double room (standard) to CHF 1,200 ($1,088 USD) for Adara Two-Bedroom suite with lake views and balcony. Rates are per guest per night and include service and VAT but exclude tourist tax of CHF 2.50 ($2.28 USD).  U.S. conversion rates as of November 27, 2007 and subject to change. Tourist tax subject to change. Rates exclude food and beverage and private spa cottages.

For information and reservations visit www.parkhotelweggis.com, mailto: info@phw.ch>info@phw.ch or 011-41-(0)413920505. To purchase wines through Vinothek im Park visit www.vinpark.ch.        

The Park Hotel Weggis is a five-star member of Relais & Chateaux situated on the banks of Lake Lucerne just 30 minutes from Lucerne and one hour from Zurich. Founded in 1875 as the Hotel Bellevue by Wilhelm Strassli, the hotel is owned by M20-Immobilien AG and managed by Peter Kämpfer. Hotel Park Weggis features 53 guestrooms and suites, a sparkling wellness facility, private spa cottages, a state-of-the-art event hall, an authentic Vinothek with 2,600 labels of wine, the most extensive in Switzerland and recipient of 2005-2007 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, 3 award-winning restaurants including 15 points Gault Millau Gourmet Restaurant Annex, an infinity pool and is situated in the village of Weggis on Lake Lucerne with views of Mts. Rigi and Pilatus - considered the Mediterranean of Switzerland. Long established as the Jewel on Lake Lucerne the hotel has once again reclaimed its position after an extensive refurbishment program combining its original Art Nouveau façade with a new sleek design, modern day luxury elements and technology.

TURKEY

The Marmara Antalya - The World's First and Only Revolving Hotel

The Marmara Antalya - the world's first and only revolving hotel - offers the best view in the house from every room in its revolving building. Perched on the majestic Falez Cliffs in Turkey's southern coast, every room of the resort's 24-room revolving loft offers ever-changing 360-degree panoramic views of the turquoise-blue mediterranean, the Antalyan coastline and the snow-capped Taurus Mountains.

The revolving loft was designed using shipbuilding specifications. It sits atop a special pool system where water drives the mechanisms that are set to turn the building 360-degrees every seven hours-- although it is capable of completing a revolution every three hours. The innovative design earned The Marmara Antalya a "Best Hotel Architecture" nomination from the prestigious Prix Villegiature Awards, which honor the best hotels in Europe.

The 24 guestrooms in the revolving loft have expansive windows, glass doors between the bathroom and bedroom and even bathtubs in the room--all to take full advantage of the magnificent views. The spacious rooms were designed to evoke a sense of comfortable luxury that one would find in a grand yet unpretentious beach home. Featuring the contemporary style of French designer Christian Allart, the color palette and natural fabrics used create a whimsical, casual elegance that blends beautifully with the seaside setting and allows the breathtaking views to be the focal point.

A second 15-story building with 208 guestrooms continues the same elegant and contemporary décor with stationary--but just as spectacular--views of the Mediterranean Sea or the Taurus Mountains.

The Marmara Antalya features a private beach reached via a dramatic 230-ft. stalactite-lined tunnel; a near-Olympic size outdoor pool; The Marmara Spa with traditional Turkish hammam; a fitness center; and a 975-ft. man-made river with adjustable wave height and flow strength for waterpsorts.

A variety of beautiful dining settings are available throughout the resort including the signature Marmara "Tuti" experience which provides a refreshing alternative to the traditionally hushed and reserved atmosphere of public areas in luxury hotels. In a soaring loft-style space that incorporates dining, relaxation and fun, guests find a restaurant, a library, art gallery, a living room, a lounge area and a billiards room, all in an inviting and interactive public area.

The focal points of the room are eight columns, each dedicated to a specific pursuit. There is an a rock-climbing column, art column, a library column, a "swinging chair" column, a web-surfing column, a culinary column called "Sakiz Ana," a spice rack column, and even a graffiti column, for guests to leave their comments. Inside and out, The Marmara Antalya offers an incomparable guest experience and the ideal Mediterranean getaway.

Rates for guest rooms at The Marmara Antalya start at euro 221 for the revolving loft and 161 euro for the main building, based on double occupancy, and includes breakfast. Rates are subject to taxes.

ABOUT THE MARMARA HOTELS & RESIDENCES
The Marmara Hotels & Residences marry the warmth of Turkish hospitality with European style. Turkey's most prestigious hotel collection offers spectacular locations, stunning views, great architecture, and warm service throughout its hotel properties including: The Marmara Istanbul in the heart of Taksim Square, The Marmara Pera in historic old Istanbul, The Marmara Bodrum, a seaside resort on the Aegean coast, The Marmara Antalya, the world's first and only revolving hotel and The Marmara Manhattan, a home away from home in the fashionable Upper East Side neighborhood of New York City.

These hotels operate under the philosophy that "Living Well Is The Best Revenge" thereby offering guests the ULTIMATE luxury experience.

For reservations or additional information, check web site www.themarmarahotels.com

CULTURE AND CUISINE OF TURKEY HIGHLIGHTED AT NEW YORK’S WATER CLUB

An enthusiastic audience of close to 200 aficionados of Turkey applauded the performances of a musical ensemble, a folk dance group and a team of chefs that came to New York to present a sampling of Turkish culture and cuisine at Turkish Night, a celebratory event held at New York’s Water Club on Wednesday, November 7th.

The event was hosted by Mr. Hasan Zongur, director of the Turkish Culture and Tourism Office in New York, with the attendance of Mr. Mehmet Samsar, Consul General of Turkey. Mr. Zongur welcomed the guests with his reflection on Turkey’s multi-cultural heritage that has generated its music and cuisine.

With the conclusion of the Epcot Food and Wine Festival in Orlando, Florida, the Turkish chefs who had been preparing their special dishes at the Turkish Pavilion flew to New York to replicate those dishes and others for the appreciative guests at Turkish Night.

The Dunya Group entertained with a musical program that presented a contemporary view of Turkish classical music. Based in Boston, the group is led by a Turkish musician, but is comprised of nine American performers who specialize in the ancient and modern music of Turkey. The audience was dazzled by the colorful dancing of the Tuana Folk Dance Group which treated them to a series of traditional folk dances which have deep roots in Turkey’s history.

Turkish Night was one highlight in a week that also included Turkey’s sponsorship of the European Travel Commission’s annual luncheon, and its participation in the ETC’s Visit Europe Media Exchange.

For information about travel to Turkey, call 1-877-FOR-TURKEY or contact the Turkish Culture and Tourism Offices in New York at 212-687-2194, in Washington D.C. at 202-612-6800, or in Los Angeles at 323-937-8066 and visit www.tourismturkey.org or www.kulturturizm.gov.tr.

LUXURY AND ADVENTURE AWAITS THE VALUE-CONSCIOUS TRAVELER IN TURKEY

U.S. travelers seeking great value in a destination filled with an abundance of culture, history, shopping, delectable food and deluxe accommodations should choose Turkey for their next getaway. Turkey is a magnificent place where one can indulge in exotic luxuries while receiving great value.

With the New Turkish Lira as its currency, Turkey allows U.S. travelers to get more out of every dollar they spend during their visit. With the little boost of spending power – and the relatively inexpensive cost of lodging and traveling through Turkey – travelers can enjoy an experiential holiday without breaking the bank.

~ Where to Stay ~

There are plenty of affordable options when looking for a hotel in Turkey. Istanbul, the country’s most popular city for U.S. tourists, has a host of excellent options under and around $100 USD. With its comfortable location in the heart of Istanbul’s historic Sultanahamet district, the Hotel Nomade has rates starting at just $85 a night for a double room. The price includes an authentic Turkish breakfast served outside on the hotel’s spectacular rooftop terrace overlooking the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sofia.

Located on a quiet street in the Sultanahamet district, the Zeynep Sultan Hotel has single rooms. Guests who book online for three nights or more have breakfast, all taxes, and one-way hotel transfers included in the price. At the Hotel Niles Istanbul, double room rates fluctuate year-round between $60 and $75 per night. Rates include tax and open buffet breakfast each morning.

Located on the shimmering Turquoise Coast in the sparkling port of Fethiye, the Belle Vue Hotel boasts rooms that have breathtaking views down over the town and coastline which run around $63 per night. In Antalya, the Royal Wings Hotel is a luxurious property with a scenic, relaxing pool area, situated on the Turkish Riviera. Rooms at the hotel average around $110 per night. While visiting Turkey’s capital city of Ankara, budget travelers can experience five-star hotel quality for a comfortable price at Mega Residence Hotel Ankara, where large, airy rooms and exceptional service offer extraordinary value at the average price of $142 per night.

~ What to Do ~

From taking in Turkey’s treasures and monuments dating back to antiquity to exploring the country’s spectacular landscape, Turkey has a myriad of options to entertain the budget-conscious traveler. A trip to Istanbul demands a visit to The Grand Bazaar, a maze of some 4,000 shops that sell treasures that make for a memorable trip. The 80 streets of the bazaar will have something for every taste and every budget, ranging from Turkish crafts to world-renowned carpets, ceramics, copper, brassware, antiques, and more. After strolling through the Bazaar, stop at any of the cafés along the Bosphorus, where an unforgettable afternoon alongside one of the world’s most celebrated rivers will cost only the price of cup of coffee. Sit amidst celebrities at The House Café (Ortakoy Meydani, Ph: 090 227 2699), or for a quiet spot, try Bebek Café near the Bebek mosque. The Spice Bazaar, next to the Yeni Mosque at Eminonu, transports visitors to fantasies from the mystical East through enticing aromas of cinnamon, caraway, saffron, mint, thyme, and every other conceivable herb and spice.

Head to the Anatolian region of Turkey to Cappadocia to delight in the surreal landscapes of the Rose Valley, where you can explore the underground cities of Kaymakli and Derinkuyu. Along the Mediterranean coast, relax in the turquoise bays of Fethiye and visit the beaches of Butterfly Valley, where $12 will buy a beautiful water taxi ride to the Blue Lagoon. For culture buffs looking for an inexpensive burst of tradition, be sure to catch a performance of the Whirling Dervishes in the town of Bursa, and experience a visual feast of Turkey’s vibrant and ancient culture.

~ Where to Eat ~

Turkey’s multicultural heritage has generated cuisine strong on grilled meats and seafood, salads, fruits and vegetables, rich desserts and tasty local drinks that typically emphasize the natural flavor of its main ingredients, a reflection of the abundance of fresh, high quality foods. Taking time for meals is an important part of Turkish culture, and there are plenty of options for the budget traveler to partake in this cultural pastime. Haci Abdullah is argued by some to be the best traditional restaurant in Istanbul (Sakızag˘acı Cad 17, Ph: 0212 293 8561). Since 1888, this gastronomic institution has been serving all of the traditional favorites, with a happy ending of desserts at affordable prices. For excellent seafood, Develi Marin by the Kalamus Yacht Port has been praised for its delightfully fresh dishes (Munir Nurettin Selcuk Caddesi, Ph: 0090 216 330 7425). For an even more memorable meal, head under the Galata Bridge in Sirkeci-Eminönü where you can savor a traditional Istanbul Fish Sandwich at many of the simple local eateries, or hop right on a fishing boat where fisherman grill freshly caught fish served right on the spot.
For the perfect kebap, try Haci Arif Bey Kebabcısı in Ankara, which has been serving perfectly cooked meats and honey-sweet baklava to generations of loyal clientele (Güniz Sok. 48, Ankara, Kavaklidere, Tel: 0312 467 6730). Recently opened in Spring 2007, Ziggy’s Shop and Café in Ürgüp, Cappadocia already has a loyal following of clients who love dining on the restaurant’s four terraces accompanied by cool jazz music (Tevfik Fikret Caddesi No. 24; Tel 090 384 341 7107). Don’t discount picking à la carte from local markets, which provide tasty and authentic options for a real taste of Turkish cuisine.

With its plethora of complimentary sites and welcoming culture, Turkey offers a paradise that overflows with virtually cost-free or inexpensive opportunities to immerse within the country’s traditions that set it apart from other European destinations. 

For information about travel to Turkey, call 1-877-FOR-TURKEY or contact the Turkish Culture and Tourism Offices in New York at 212-687-2194 or in Washington D.C. at 202-612-6800, and visit www.tourismturkey.org or www.kulturturizm.gov.tr.

Great Places/Great Opportunities for Tourists

Once the traditional summer vacation season has passed, the autumn months offer visitors to Turkey glorious weather, fewer crowds, and a line-up of extraordinary events taking place in Istanbul and in the resort cities along the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts.

This season's "Spotlight" is on the Aegean, and with good reason. If you book a trip that includes this region, you‚ll marvel at the wonder of Ephesus, the exquisite small cities of Kusadasi, Bodrum, and Izmir, the private yachts and wooden Gulettes, and the restorative baths, hot springs and spas. All of these can be enjoyed against the backdrop of steep cliffs dropping down to the clear blue Aegean sea. 

Golfers will find several magnificent courses close to Istanbul and many others along the Mediterranean coast known as the "Turkish Riviera," so I suggest that you read Turkey Tees Off. Not only does the Mediterranean coast provide spectacular golf resorts and challenging championship courses, but golfers and their companions can also visit the ancient preserved cities of Perge, Side and Belek that are nearby. In the town of Ürgüp, located in the Cappadocia region, the new Serinn House hotel (www.serinnhouse.com/) is a fabulous choice for visitors looking for exceptional charm in a unique locale. With only five guest rooms, each luxuriously designed by famed Turkish architect Rfat Ergör, this intimate hotel retains the natural cave-dwelling beauty typical to the Cappadocia region while exuding a stylish modernity. Along with gracious hospitality, the Serinn House offers exquisite views, a convenient location, and lush accommodations worthy of any excursion to this interesting region of Turkey.

Recently refurbished, the Garden House Hotel (www.gardenhouseistanbul.com/) in Istanbul is reminiscent of Istanbulís ancient past, serving as a superb example of 19th Century Ottoman architecture with its wooden exterior and distinctive interior dÈcor. Located in the heart of Istanbulís Sultanahmet district, also known as Old City, the Garden House serves as the ultimate stepping stone for exploring Istanbulís history and charms. Having such modern luxuries as air conditioning, minibars, in-room safes, satellite television, Internet connections and whirlpool bathtubs in each room, the Garden House Hotel grants guests access to Istanbulís typical contradictions; modernity mixed with tradition.  

The newly opened Sisus Hotel (www.sisushotel.com/), situated on the Cesme Peninsula near the Dalyankoy Yacht Marina in Izmir, offers young and old a five-star boutique experience along the coast. Amenities include such luxurious facilities as a health and wellness center complete with Turkish bath, spa therapies, and massage programs, a heated outdoor swimming pool and range of water sports, tennis courts, a billiards room, and the opportunity to join jeep safaris and sightseeing expeditions.

Along the Turkish coastline, the newly renovated five-star Mitsis Ramira Beach Resort (www.mitsishotels.com/Hotels/ramirabeach-hotel/), slightly over two miles from the city of Kos, offers guests 337 contemporary rooms with modern amenities and expansive gardens. Situated on the beach of Psalidi, travelers can expect exceptional service in a secluded environment. Whether relaxing on a sun bed by the Mediterranean or participating in such activities as tennis, windsurfing, beach volleyball or soccer, the Mitsis Ramira offers a great many options to keep each and every guest occupied and pleased.

There are many golf courses throughout Turkey, and for the past decade the numbers have continued to rise. The Belek Borough, or the 'Turkish Riviera' along the Mediterranean coast east of Antalya is a popular destination where accommodations are lavish and golf resorts reign supreme. Avid golfers have a plethora of options in that area. Nature lovers will flock to courses such as the Gloria, set among the pine forests at the foot of the Toros Mountains; the Nobilis Golf Resort, framed by the spectacular wooded scenery along the Belek Acisu River with a course designed by world-renowned architect Dave Thomas; or the National Golf Club just 24 minutes from the Antalya airport and set among pines and lakes, a course designed by European Ryder Cup team member David Feherty. The Tat International Golf Club is a triple threat, with its 27-hole championship course boasting panoramic views of snow-covered mountains, the Mediterranean Sea and numerous lakes. Perge is just an hour away from all of the Belek Boroughís courses, where more Turkish athletic spots including ancient athletic stadiumsólie.

Close to the historic city of Istanbul is one of the oldest golf clubs in Europe; the Istanbul Golf Club, founded in 1895. Also convenient to Istanbul is The Kemer Golf and Country Club. Only a 25-minute drive from the city, The Kemer Golf and Country Club is set in the quiet hills of the Belgrade Forest, where the tranquility of the course is distant from the bustle of the city.

The first Links style course ever to open in Turkey will be unveiled in the fall of 2007 near the ancient Mediterranean town of Side. Overlooking the sea from all perspectives, the 80 hectare site will house two courses: an 18-hole Championship, par-72 course, and a 9-hole Academy, par-27 course. Golf enthusiasts around the world will have the opportunity to enjoy the pleasant weather and views at the coast, along with the challenges of the sea winds blowing off the Mediterranean.

An oasis of grand proportion, with world-renowned courses situated close to the world's most stunning historical and natural sites, Turkey serves as the ultimate golf destination getaway.

Before rapt audiences in both cities, the Whirling Dervishes performed their mysterious and legendary dances which were inspired by the beliefs of Rumi, and which reflect the heart and soul of Turkish custom, history, beliefs and culture. The messages of the Mevlevi sect, as set forth in the teachings of Rumi, promote goodness, charity, peace and tolerance towards all peoples. The anniversary of Rumi's birth and the performances of the Whirling Dervishes served as welcome reminders of those spiritual messages.

Rumi's teachings of goodwill and friendship are most evident in Turkey's outreach to its visitors, thus the connection of the Whirling Dervishes to Turkey's tourism programs. Representing the Ministry of Tourism during the performance tour were Mr. Ozgur Ozarslan, general Director of Promotions and Mr. Levent Demirel, Deputy General Director of Promotions.

News of the performances was carried in Time Out New York, ModernAgent.com and In the Know Traveler, among other media outlets in the U.S.

For information about travel to Turkey call 1-877-FOR-TURKEY or contact the Turkish Culture and Tourism Offices in New York at 212-687-2194 or in Washington D.C. at 202-612-6800 and visit www.tourismturkey.org or www.kulturturizm.gov.tr.

Turkey Offers Exotic Locales for Weddings and Honeymoons

Turkey, at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, offers couples an exotic locale with modern amenities. With world-class hotels and resorts, endless sightseeing opportunities, exceptional shopping and thousands of miles of turquoise waters, couples can enjoy privacy, history and luxury in a country that offers it all.
Turkey boasts some of the world’s most extraordinary scenes for an ideal wedding or honeymoon. And with hotel packages that range from intimate and traditional to extravagant and exotic, properties throughout Turkey make that special day, and those afterwards, romantic, convenient and memorable. 

At the Hyatt Regency Istanbul, an entire staff of wedding professionals is on-hand to cater to the bride and groom’s every wish. The Hyatt Regency Istanbul’s wedding package can cater to those who prefer a traditional wedding or one with exotic elements, along with accommodations in a wedding suite on the couple’s wedding night and special wedding amenities.

Once the special day is complete, couples can spend their honeymoon in Istanbul at The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul, which offers three packages that cater to honeymooners. The Honeymoon/Anniversary Package, Suite Dreams Honeymoon package and Magic Moments package give guests a selection of romantic offerings, from plush accommodations with views of the Bosphorus, a Laveda Signature Body Massage in the Couples Suite, rose petal turndowns, sparkling wine upon arrival, and special meals at the hotel’s Cintemani Restaurant.

Elsewhere in Turkey, couples can choose a wedding on the sun-soaked coastline. The Sea Breeze Hotel in the Mediterranean resort town of Ölüdeniz provides exquisite beachside weddings under the palm-lined beaches of Turkey’s magnificent Turquoise Coast. Sun set photography opportunities are available at the world renowned Blue Lagoon, accessible only by boat. The hotel offers a spectacular dinner feast complete with musical entertainment and Turkish belly dancers and wedding packages that include everything the bride and groom need, including all legal arrangements. 

The Kempinski Dome Belek Hotel in Turkey’s Antalya region offers honeymooners the choice of a lavish two-night, honeymoon stay in a junior-suite or a full week in a deluxe room with a sea view. Both packages include daily breakfast, in-room champagne and fruit toast upon arrival, full body massages, airport transfers, and candlelit 3-5 course dinners, among other special amenities. 

Lavish amenities complemented by breathtaking scenery can be enjoyed on the Turkish Riviera. The Sheraton Voyager Antalya Resort & Spa provides its newlywed guests with a honeymoon cake, sea-view room, congratulatory flower arrangement, luxurious bathrobes, and a 15% discount on extra services throughout the hotel. While at the Titantic Beach and Resort Hotel, newlyweds are greeted with a rose petal-dusted room, fruit basket and sparkling wine and first morning breakfast in bed, along with other additional gifts and amenities. 

Along the Aegean Sea, the resort towns of Bodrum and Marmaris are exclusive destinations to relax and take-in in the beauty of the Turkish coast. At the Elegance Hotel in Marmaris, honeymooners receive discounted rates of up to 25% depending upon the season. The Marmara Bodrum Hotel provides newlyweds with an upgraded sea-view room, fruit basket and snacks, and a local bottle of wine to pair with a romantic dinner at Tufi restaurant.

Further inland, weddings can be arranged over or under the spectacular Cappadocia region of Turkey. With Turkish Heritage Travel weddings, couples can marry in a hot air balloon, floating above the chimney-like rock formations of the Cappadocia landscape, or inside a historical cave church. Various packages are available with options such as a wedding celebratory dinner in a rose-garden with breathtaking views of the Cappadocia valley below.

For newlyweds looking for a one-of-a-kind honeymoon experience, the Goreme House Hotel, tucked in the unusual terrain of Goreme village, is the perfect place to have a true Anatolian experience. Built out of beautiful stone from the Cappadocia region, this quaint hotel awards its newlywed guests with a serene and peaceful environment perfect for the relaxation desired on a honeymoon. The hotel’s suites are carved into cozy caves, complete with Jacuzzis and decorated in traditional Anatolian décor, proving to be the perfect retreat. Honeymooning couples also receive a 10% discount at special restaurants found throughout Goreme.

For information about travel to Turkey, call 1-877-FOR-TURKEY or contact the Turkish Culture and Tourism Offices in New York at 212-687-2194, in Washington D.C. at 202-612-6800, or in Los Angeles at 323-937-8066 and visit web sites www.tourismturkey.org or www.kulturturizm.gov.tr.

Turkey Chosen to Host 2011 Winter Universiade~

The International University Sports Foundation (FISU) has announced that Erzurum, Turkey will host the 2011 Winter Universiade, placing Turkey top in the rankings as one of the most exceptional ski destinations in the world. Turkey’s ski resorts provide excellent conditions year-round for cross-country, downhill, heli-skiing and snowboarding, while modern facilities and equipment complemented by highly skilled skiing instructors make for a memorable winter getaway. 

The FISU 2011 Winter Universiade host city of Erzurum is located in Turkey’s Eastern Anatolian region, situated on a high plateau and providing excellent ski conditions. Only four miles away from the city center, the ski resort of Palandöken features some of the longest and steepest ski runs in Europe, awarding avid skiers with one-of-a-kind experience on the slopes. The resort’s highest point is 10,459 feet – the highest elevation in Turkey – and can accommodate up to 32,000 people per day. Additionally, construction will soon begin to build an ice hockey facility, new slopes will open and there are plans for Mount Palandoken to include Turkey's first ski jumping towers.

The glacier of the extinct volcanic mountain of Erciyes is positioned at almost the exact center of Turkey, in the Central Anatolian region. With its highest peak at 10,171 feet, it serves as another prime option for ardent skiers interested in such extreme sports as heli-skiing and mountaineering. Further West, located in the Marmara region, Uludag Ski Center is one of Turkey’s largest ski centers, with peaks of up to 8,343 feet. Skiers are granted countless opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing on Uludag’s forest-covered mountains.

For skiers who enjoy a more leisurely and less intense experience, there is the Saklikent Ski Center located in the Beydag˘ları Mountains, 40 miles from Antalya Airport and extremely close to the Mediterranean Sea. Having an average altitude of around 6,562 to 7,874 feet, Saklikent offers skiers a great family-oriented atmosphere with a plethora of options for both beginners and pros.  Kartalkaya Ski Center, situated between the popular tourist cities of Istanbul and Ankara, has great options for alpine skiing, cross-country and ski touring on its 7,287-foot mountain.    
With its mountainous topography and mild winter temperatures, Turkey provides an excellent haven for ski aficionados looking for an exotic ski locale unlike any other. Winter resorts in Turkey are easily accessible from all major airports and offer a full range of contemporary accommodations priced less then many other popular European ski destinations. With the current value of the U.S. dollar at all-time lows, now is the ideal time to take advantage of Turkey’s exciting winter offerings. 

For more information on winter sport resorts in Turkey, please contact the Youth and Sport General Directorate at +90 (312) 311 0764, Turkish Ski Committee at www.turkski.org or the Federation of International Ski at www.fis-ski.com.

For information about travel to Turkey, call 1-877-FOR-TURKEY or contact the Turkish Culture and Tourism Offices in New York at 212-687-2194, in Washington D.C. at 202-612-6800, or in Los Angeles at 323-937-8066 and visit www.tourismturkey.org or www.kulturturizm.gov.tr.

Mevlâna Celaleddin Rumi

Each year, the commemorative ceremony for Mevlâna Celaleddin Rumi begins
as it has for nearly 800 years, with a traditional reading accompanied by the mesmerizing sounds of the ney (reed flute). Following the readings from a poem of praise for Mevlâna, the thrilling dance begins: The barefoot dervishes remove their flowing black cloaks to reveal white robes, before taking position to begin their traditional whirling movements.

The festival is particularly meaningful this year as the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has just announced that it will commemorate the 800th anniversary of Mevlâna Celaleddin Rumi's birth as one of the celebrations of anniversaries with which UNESCO is associated. For more information, visit www.unesco.org.

For information about travel to Turkey, call 1-877-FOR-TURKEY or contact
the Turkish Culture and Tourism Offices in New York at 212-687-2194, in
Washington D.C. at 202-612-6800, or in Los Angeles at 323-937-8066 or check web site www.tourismturkey.org or www.kulturturizm.gov.tr.

Turkey Wins Top Travel Honors

Combining the contemporary appeal of Europe with the exotic culture of ancient Asia, Turkey is attracting increasing numbers of U.S. visitors with its rich heritage and extraordinary value. Recently, the country's enormous appeal has been
identified and praised by some of the world's most discerning travelers: Both the readers of Condé Nast Traveler and the online visitors to TripAdvisor.com have voted Turkey and its attractions the choice vacation destination now and into 2007.

"We are honored that Turkey has been chosen as the luxury travel destination by some of the world's most knowledgeable travelers," said Hasan Zongur, Director of the Turkish Culture and Tourism Office. "These awards underscore our efforts to ensure an enjoyable and memorable experience in Turkey. We encourage visitors to take advantage of all that our country has to offer."

For the second consecutive year, readers of Condé Nast Traveler voted Istanbul fourth among the top 10 European cities in the magazine's 19th annual Readers' Choice Awards poll published in the November 2006 issue. Condé Nast Traveler's prestigious Readers' Choice Awards also honored the city's hotels as the "Best of the Best." Taking home top honors are the Four Seasons Hotel, Istanbul (in 19th place) and The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul (ranked 24th). Those two hotels, along with Istanbul's Çiragan Palace Kempinski, were also listed as 5, 6 and 17, respectively, on the list of the "Top 75 European Hotels" in the annual issue.

Elsewhere in Turkey, Pamukkale has been named as the next tourism destination "hot spot" for 2007. Pamukkale (translated as "Cotton Castle") is famed for its immense snow-white cliffs formed by cascading mineral-rich waters. These natural hot springs provide water to a number of neighboring contemporary hotels that utilize the water in classic saunas and Jacuzzis, and for more specific personal services that include massage, mud treatments and herbal baths.

For information about travel to Turkey, call 1-877-FOR-TURKEY or contact the Turkish Culture and Tourism Offices in New York at 212-687-2194, in Washington D.C. at 202-612-6800, or in Los Angeles at 323-937-8066 and check web site www.tourismturkey.org or www.kulturturizm.gov.tr.

WALES

Wales' Wow-Worthy Accommodation Is Under the Thatch

An authentic Gypsy caravan set in its own acre of riverside meadow, a restored Edwardian railway carriage built as a sleeper coach for the Great Western Railway and a fabulously secluded farmhouse on a 12-acre working sheep farm are among the offerings of Under the Thatch, a Welsh sustainable tourism business with one-of-a-kind, WOW!-worthy accommodation. 

Under the Thatch has 18 completely original, fantastically-affordable self-catering accommodation ranging from woodland log cabins, traditional cottages and 17th-century farmhouses to converted railway carriages and authentic vardos. Package prices start as low as £25 per night. For couples seeking the ultimate in seclusion and romance, it has love nests for two and for those who believe the more, the merrier, it has accommodation comfortably sleeping eight.

The profits from Under the Thatch go to rescuing historic buildings at risk. The company aims to rent its accommodations every night of the year. If the cottages are not booked out of season, Under the Thatch reduces the price until they do book because it believes that the buildings should continue to work for their communities, even in low season. It would rather rent a cottage with no profit being made than have it stand empty.

For more information about Under the Thatch and its special offers on its one-of-a-kind accommodation, visit www.underthethatch.com

The landscape and the ethos of Wales are decidedly green; Visit Wales actively supports green tourism, and it awarded Under the Thatch a Green Dragon Environmental Award in 2006. For more information about planning a trip to” Green Wales” call 1-877-872-1133 or visit www.visitwales.com.

Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT)

The Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT) helps people keep it green year-long with residential courses on how to shrink your ecological footprint, give your life a sustainable makeover and learn how green your garden really is. For those dedicated to green living, CAT also offers hands-on learning courses on making one’s own biodiesel, building your own wind turbine and building from strawbales.  Open to the public since 1975, Wales’ Centre for Alternative Technology has earned worldwide recognition as a leader in presenting practical solutions to environmental problems in a fun and informative way. The visitor center has a range of interactive displays on wind, water and solar power, green transport, energy efficiency, ecological building and organic growing. 

Visitors to the Centre for Alternative Technology who want to keep their vacation green can stay at nearby award-winning green B&B’s that serve home-grown, organic vegetarian food; bicycle throughout Mid Wales’ Dyfi Valley and explore nearby nature reserves and beaches.

Visit the Centre for Alternative Technology at web site www.cat.org.uk for a bevy of Green tips for the Holidays and to learn more about saving our planet. You can e-mail your green questions to info@cat.org.uk .

For more information about planning a vacation in Wales of any color, check web site www.visitwales.com or call 800 462 2748.

The Centre for Alternative Technology’s pocket-sized booklet “52 Weeks To Change Your World” makes for a great stocking stuffer. This can be ordered from web site. www.cat.org.uk.

Legend of St. Dwynwen, Welsh Patron St. of Lovers

As legend has it Dwynwen, the prettiest of the Welsh King Brychan Brycheiniog’s 24 daughters, fell deeply in love with a Welsh prince Maelon Dafodrill, but her father forbade her to marry him. Maelon was so outraged by this that he left her. She begged God for help to make her forget him and was then visited in her sleep by an angel who gave her a sweet drink designed to erase all memory of Maelon and to turn him to ice. When she awoke she prayed to God again for help and was granted three wishes. She wished that Maelon be unfrozen, that she never marry and that God answer all requests made by her on behalf of lovers - all three wishes were fulfilled and she devoted her life to God.

Spring is the Perfect Time to Explore Wales

Spring is a perfect time to explore Wales' bustling cities, rural villages, and quiet country lanes. Don't want to drive? Explore by bus, train, or walking tour. Or take a ride with the postman! En route, visit, a mill, a Roman camp, a new waterfront museum.

When Wales "called all Joneses" to Cardiff’s Millennium Center last November, 1,224 Joneses arrived from all over the world! The result? The Joneses grabbed the Guinness World Record for “largest surname gathering in the world” away from the Norbergs of Sweden. The Norbergs just couldn’t keep up with the Joneses.

So Spring has arrived - probably one of the best seasons in Wales. Year round we see the changing of the seasons and the differences they bring to the landscape, but one constant you can be sure of is the welcome or "Croeso" from the Welsh people. They're a friendly lot and probably a bit inquisitive to go with it. A trip to Wales would not be complete without trying to get to know a few of the locals. A great way to do this is to ride a PostBus or sit in on a Male Voice Choir rehearsal - an unforgettable experience - and who knows, you may get invited down the pub afterwards for a pint.

To find out more about the choirs and where they rehearse, check out homecomingwales.com.

Explore Deep Down in a "Pit Cage"

Don a hard hat and rattle 300 feet into the earth in a "pit cage," the way Welsh coal miners did. See where workers turned out the wool that dressed Europe and where they mined the slate that roofed the world. Stroll through a superb collection of French art, amassed by two ladies from rural Wales. Visit a Roman fort, a living history center, and a high tech waterfront museum.

This spring, a visit could take you from Cardiff all the way to Snowdonia, making stops at the seven museums that together make up the National Museum Wales, celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2007.

Along the way, you will learn about Welsh history, from the Celts, through Wales' years as the most remote outpost of the Roman Empire, all the way up to the clanging, clamor and danger of the Industrial Revolution and on to modern times. Special Centenary exhibitions and events abound, admission is free, and by visiting all seven, you will also get a great insight into Wales and it's people.

Escorted Tours and Packages Great Idea

Escorted tours and value-priced packages are both great ways to see the Welsh countryside. Here are some choices, both classic and new:

The Wayfarers' six-day, five-night guided walk, "Snowdonia: Land of Myths & Mountains" takes walkers to a castle; a farm with working border collies; to Portmeiron. Daily walks cover 8 to 10 miles (pick-up van available). Mention this article when you book and receive a CD of Welsh music.

Mountain Travel Sobek makes its entry into Wales in 2007 with its guided "Historic Hikes of North Wales," also focused around Snowdonia. This more intensive trip includes a hike to the summit of Mount Snowdon, Wales' tallest mountain. Mention this article when you book and receive a free North Face duffle bag.

Avanti Destinations offers great values on driving tour packages, which include stays in small, privately owned hotels that belong to the elite Welsh Rarebits hotel group. Packages include three nights accommodations with breakfast, a four-day economy car rental, and a four-day Great British Heritage pass,. From $469 per person, Avanti packages must be booked through a travel agent, contact your local agent or take advantage of the knowledge of our Wales specialists.

For more information on Wales, contact Visit Wales - U.S.A., 551 Fifth Avenue, Suite 701, New York, NY 10176.

Wales’ Brecon Beacons Offers B&B Bargain for Horse & Rider- Hay Included

Legendary Welsh hospitality is expanding with a new program that not only caters to riders, but to their horses too. The Brecon Beacons National Park has introduced the first-ever horse-friendly B&B network beginning with 18 B&B’s offering a warm welcome and great value for horse and rider.

Characteristic of the horse-friendly B&B’s is the Wern, which created a three-day circuit for riders who start at its farm and stay a night at two other farms on the way. Breakfast for its two-legged guests includes locally cured bacon, eggs from the farmyard and home-made jam and lemon curd; its four-legged guests dine on locally-grown grass. For dinner, riders are treated to local lamb or beef and the horse is treated to locally produced haylage and windfall apples in the autumn with “room service” delivering fodder and hard food upon request.

Accommodation for riders is in a double or twin room with natural-fiber bedclothes, and the horses spend the night in the comfort of specialist aubiose (hemp) bedding. The Wern B&B charges £25 for riders and £15 for horses plus an additional £5 for unlimited grazing, similar rates apply to the other B&B’s in the network.

In related news, the Brecon Beacons has joined with the British Horse Society to create a new publication which promotes five new circular routes which travel through some of the park’s most outstanding beauty spots. The pamphlet includes a detailed map and essential riding information.

Regarded as one of the most important geological landscapes in Europe, the Brecon Beacons was the first national park in Britain to be awarded membership in the highly prestigious European Geopark Network. The park, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, rewards riders (and non-riders too) with contrasting landscapes, ranging from windswept uplands and reservoirs to ancient woodlands and waterfalls.

For more information about the Brecon Beacons’ new B&B program for Horse & Rider and to find out more about horse riding in Wales visit www.horseridingbreconbeacons.com or www.equestrianwales.org.uk

The Brecon Beacons, which is one hour from Cardiff and three hours from London, is one of three National Parks in Wales; there is also Snowdonia National Park in the North and Pembrokeshire National Park in the West. To learn more about this Celtic land of singers, poets and rugby players, visit www.visitwales.com

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