Summer/Autumn 2013 BOOK NOW through your TRAVELBAG travel agent Contents 38 12

Features 12-27 LATIN AMERICA Ultimate to do list 28-31 COSTA RICA In need of a little Adventure? 38-65 USA Charleston - Where history lives Your Guide to the Capital Region California - Seeing Stars 00-00 Discover Vegas & The Grand Canyon 66-81 ABU DHABI Your Guide to Abu Dhabi 82-131 There’s nothing like Australia & Beyond A barmy summer in Queensland The Legendary Pacific Coast Western Australia - Into The Blue David Gower’s Perth 136 - This Island was made for walking South Australia - A Genuine Australian Experience Revelling in Australia’s Red Centre Not the Ashes but Alice Springs 136-139 KENYA 72 28 African Adventures 140-157 & ALASKA - River Deep, Mountain High Find Your Alaska LIFEsTYLE 158 Essential Holiday Reading 159 Top Travel Apps 160 Where in the World

Published by: Travelbag, 205 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6BA Web: www.travelbag.co.uk 82 Publisher: Paul Hopkinson Design: Adrian Legouix Matt Sidebottom © Travelbag 2013. The opinions in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of Travelbag. All reasonable attempts have been made to clear copyright before publication. 140 2959 Accredited .V0654 Agent

4 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 5 WELCOME TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL EXPERTS Whatever your dream holiday is, let us inspire you with this issue of Escape Magazine. Whether your kind of When Travelbag began back in 1979, we wanted to offer more than package holidays, and that’s just one holiday is an adventurous escape, a relaxing retreat or an urban exploration, settle down, have a read and let us of the reasons why we’re still tailor-making holidays more than 30 years after and it’s no surprise that we’ve transport you to some of the most interesting, exotic and exciting destinations in the world including Australia, established ourselves as a leader in this market. As you’ll see throughout this issue of Escape magazine, our USA, Canada and Latin America. portfolio incorporates a wide range of travel options across the world. And because we only work with suppliers, properties and airlines that meet our exacting standards, customers can be sure that your trip will be of the very Once you have been inspired, come and speak to one of consultants, either in one of our seven shops, including highest quality. our recently opened premises at 205 Kensington High Street, London, or over the telephone. Visit a Travelbag Shop We look forward to welcoming you on a Travelbag holiday very soon. London - recently OPENED Brighton 205 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6BA 65 Western Road, Brighton, BN1 2HA Cheltenham Knutsford 10-12 Pittville Street, Cheltenham, GL52 2LJ 8 Princess Street, Knutsford, WA16 6DD Alton Winchester Tony Carty, Managing Director, Travelbag 3-5 High Street, Alton, GU34 1TL 99 High Street, Winchester, SO23 9AH Solihull Chester P.S. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, travelbag.co.uk and Twitter (@Travelbag1979) to be 26-28 Drury Lane, Solihull, B91 3BG Glendale Business Park, Sandycroft, CH5 2DL kept informed on all of our latest offers, competitions plus ideas and inspiration for future holidays.

6 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 7 Travelbag’s top ten Travelbag’s top ten

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8 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 9 ZSLOADC30308AGG_TravelbagEscape_420x297_Beijing_EN01_HR.pdf 1 08/07/2013 3:53 PM The For over 30 years, Travelbag has offered inspirational journeys in Latin America. Over the next few pages take a sneak preview Travelbag’s Ultimate To Do List, the full collection will be published in the autumn. In a new era of luxury travel, Travelbag is at the forefront of tailor- making unique itineraries to enrich every stage of your holiday. Ultimate We have long understood that it is not enough to tick off a checklist of places visited, rather it is how you spend your time and the experiences that you have that shape your days and nights. Highlighting the most unique, elite and enriching travel experiences in the region, our Ultimate To Do List aims to inspire your next trip to this part of the world - where time and events will To Do List effortlessly merge to give you a genuine, utterly unique and entirely Latin America exuberant experience.

12 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 13 ULTIMATE TO DO LIST - Latin America Latin America - ULTIMATE TO DO LIST Long and slender, Chile stretches more than half the continent—from the explora Patagonia - explora offers Built into the outfit's programmes driest desert to the highest volcanoes, to beaches, rainforests and massive extraordinary all-season lodge-based are incredible daily excursions during Chile which guests explore the area's wildly glaciers Southern journeys through the windswept majesty of disparate terrains on foot, boat or Stretched out along the Pacific coast, Chile is packed with phenomenal and diverse vistas. Geological Patagonia Chilean Patagonia horseback. Longer explorations may idiosyncrasies – the highest volcano and the driest desert in the world, rainforests, floating and hanging include travel by van or catamaran, glaciers – have created striking landscapes, each inspiring unforgettable adventures. depending on the route. Millions of This desolate area of spectral beauty Four-wheel drive over the lunar landscape and glistening salt flats, dotted with flamingo-filled lakes, years ago, monumental geological at the bottom of the Americas is in the Atacama Desert. Trek through vast ice fields, tropical forests and watch the Andes disappear into transformations created the area's the Patagonian Sea. Spend days battling whitewater rapids or gently floating on quiet lagoons, scaling truly the 'final frontier' of the New stunning mountains, glaciers, lakes, icy blue glaciers or soaking in hot springs amidst ancient volcanoes. Trot on horseback over rolling World. Picture yourself at the edge rivers and a wide variety of flora and green hills in the Central Valley, the heart of Chile’s wine country. In between exciting expeditions, get of the world – icy fjords, towering, fauna, all of which vastly outnumber pampered at an amazing luxury lodge. snow-capped mountains 'tumbling' humans. In keeping with this spirit, Chile’s natural gifts are spectacular but urban culture vultures have plenty to sink their teeth into. groups are kept small and are into the sea, penguins, sea lions Santiago, the country’s cosmopolitan capital, has both the energy of a thriving metropolis and the accompanied by expert Wilderness and whales darting in and out of quaint nostalgia of a colonial town. New art galleries, boutiques and restaurants make this exuberant First Responder-certified bilingual city the perfect base from which to explore. the blue waters. Memorable bird- guides. watching excursions take you to Between adventures, the Hotel view black-faced ibis, white-tufted Salto Chico, a luxurious retreat in the grebe and distinguished black- heart of Torres del Paine National Park, provides relaxation and comfort. neck swans. Welcoming estancias Patagonian gauchos prepare hearty provide for comfortable stays. meals, like succulent pit-roast lamb, Retrace the footsteps of and the lodge's bathhouse and pool 16th century conquistador offer perfect pampering. explora Hernando de Magallanes as he Patagonia also offers horseback riding explored this enchanting land. programmes of four-nights' that allow you to live the gaucho lifestyle Located right on the Strait of and discover one of the world's most Magellan, the modern city of Punta The Aubrey Boutique Hotel - A stylish, pristine and wild landscapes. design-driven boutique hotel in Santiago Arenas is the centre for excursions Santiago & to islands inhabited only by The Singular - Located in Puerto Bories The hotel, which used to be a cold- The Aubrey Hotel offers personalised service and a great penguin colonies and to Tierra in the southernmost part of Chile, The storage plant for frozen mutton, was location. Nestled at the foot of Santiago's Metropolitan Park, re-purposed and opened in November Beyond del Fuego’s remote fjords. From Singular is on the route to the spectacular the hotel is just steps from restaurants, nightlife, and cultural 2011. Built in 1915, the building is the granite spires and turquoise Touching down in Santiago, and recreational activities. Torres del Paine National Park and perfectly a listed national monument and the lakes of scenic and dramatic wrapped in a cloak of snow-dusted The hotel is located within a restored 1927 mansion, positioned for excursions to the Patagonian inventive restoration is completely Torres del Paine National Park to Andean peaks, is a spectacular start paying homage to Bellavista's storied past while dazzling fjords unique. The 54-rooms and three suites remote coastal islands rife with to your Chilean adventure. After with a modern aesthetic that defines cool. In other words, – all facing the sea with fantastic views the décor seamlessly combines old and new, antique elephant seal colonies, the austere of the port and the fjords – are huge years of prosperity and stability, the and modern. The 15 generously sized guest rooms are beauty of Chile's southernmost and simply decorated with antique country's glittering capital boasts individually decorated in warm wood, polished copper and wood floors, fresh white linens and province is awe inspiring. And a myriad of museums, restaurants, brightly coloured cushions. Breakfast and afternoon tea are classic luxury touches. Other hotel for the more adventurous, it's also nightlife and parks whose number included. Named one of the Best Hotels in Chile in 2011 by amenities include a well-appointed spa, wonderfully accessible, through and quality rival those of more National Geographic. heated swimming pool, room service, exhilarating, well-organised and an on-site museum with a Vic- famous Buenos Aires. While here, Lastarria Boutique Hotel - A quiet oasis horse treks and a wide choice torian engine room and other pieces dive into the vibrant new fashion, in a tree-lined neighbourhood brimming of eco and luxury cruises that from The Singular’s industrial heritage. art and dining scenes in Vitacura, The restaurant serves local lamb, fish with galleries and cafés place you in the centre of it all. check out the designer stores on and hare. Watch the sunset over the Alonso de Córdova, and stroll The 12-room Lastarria Boutique Hotel sits on a quiet street water while you dine. through the rejuvenated colonial a few minutes' walk from some of Santiago’s most popular Each day, a team of expert guides leads exciting once-in-a-lifetime centre where once-crumbling 19th cafés, restaurants, museum and shops. Built in 1927 in Lastarria (now Santiago's most bohemian neighbourhood), the expeditions through fjords, mountains, century mansions and abandoned mansion was carefully restored and updated while preserving glaciers, farms and forests. Guests can factories have been converted the unique oak and marble features. Sunny guest rooms have choose to discover 'hidden Patagonia' into chic bistros and galleries. tall ceilings and are smartly decorated. Generous bathrooms on horseback, trekking or kayaking. are outfitted with walk-in showers with rainfall shower heads. In the walled and shady garden, there's a heated lap pool. Soothing and rejuvenating massages are available in the diminutive spa.

14 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 15 ULTIMATE TO DO LIST - Latin America Latin America - ULTIMATE TO DO LIST Kunza Hotel & Spa - Rustic luxury in the Large spaces and modern world’s driest desert and surrounded by architecture of the 60-room Kunza Atacama Hotel & Spa are designed to offer natural wonders both comfort and the full experience Desert of the Atacama Desert. All rooms have air-conditioning, private terraces, flat screen TV, outside shower, Against its stark and surreal complimentary Internet, digital safe, landscapes, the driest desert on laundry service and telephone for both earth enchants with hot springs, local and international calls. The spa dramatic geysers, massive salt boasts outdoor pools and Jacuzzis, wet and dry saunas, fitness equipment and lakes, enormous sand dunes and massage therapies that incorporate huge flocks of pink flamingos elements of local vegetation. Beautiful, and other rare avian species. rustic paths lead you to intimate A rare set of factors in this arid encounters with nature – a natural amphitheatre, a reflecting pool, shaded moon-like landscape—very seats to sit enjoy the extensive gardens. little rainfall, crystal-clear Places you can relax and lose track skies, high altitudes and no of time. At night, the sky is clear and light pollution—have created strewn with stars. The food – including a traditional asado on Saturday nights a haven where stargazers – is made with fresh, local ingredients. can marvel at misty nebulae, Day-long or half-day excursions to faraway planets, remnants of Valley of the Moon, Geysers of Tatio- 1, 2, 3 supernova explosions and Machuca, Highland Lakes, Kari and other attractions are available. the dramatic Southern Cross. During rare winter rains, this barren desert erupts into a riot of colourful wildflowers that stretch as far as the eye can see. Relish the silence and solitude The first humans arrived in Atacama, explora Atacama - Luxury lodging with 1. Kunza Hotel & Spa of the desert and the simple Chile over 10,000 years ago, giving dramatic vistas of desert oasis 2. explora Atacama delights of the little villages with rise to what later became a rich culture and distant mountains concentrated in and around oases. 3. Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa their lovely old churches. In Diverse, unusual forms of wildlife Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa - Award-winning Tierra Atacama is a San Pedro, enjoy cosy bars and found ways to develop in the midst of stylish desert hideaway that boasts creature comforts yet preserves restaurants and a lively nightlife. volcanoes, salt flats, lagoons and ravines. local cultural influences Located in the San Pedro de Atacama oasis, and just a few minutes’ With stunning views of the majestic Licancabur Volcano this boutique property is located within easy walk from the town of San Pedro de reach of the charming village of San Pedro de Atacama in northern Chile. Designed to have minimal Atacama, the Hotel de Larache is the intervention on the land, authentic materials give a welcoming and cosy ambience. All rooms have ultimate base from which to explore this private terraces, outdoor showers and views of the volcano. The décor is casually elegant in a mid- wonderful area. The elegant lodge sits century style, accented with authentic hand-made textiles and crafts sourced from local villages. There is on a 42-acre estate once belonging to an Wi-Fi but no TVs in the rooms. ancient desert community, and features Experienced guides lead desert adventures that range from hikes, walks, mountain bike rides and horse 49 lovely rooms arranged around a rides to more demanding volcano climbs. Guests also enjoy magnificent journeys to the salt lakes of Salar courtyard shaded by chañar trees. de Tara and the Atacama Salt Flat, Miscanti and Miñiques lagoons, Tatio Geysers, Machuca village, Hotel amenities include horse stables, Puritama Hot Springs, the surreal beauty of Moon Valley, Rainbow Valley and the pre-historic rock an observatory for viewing the night sky, carvings. heated pools, open-air Jacuzzis, saunas, Guests are invited to combine activities with total relaxation at the hotel's Uma Spa. In a space steam baths and a massage room. And designed to create calm and relaxation through aromas, colours and textures, treatments are based on every day, custom-designed excursions local desert elements such as volcanic mud, lithium rich salt, and desert herbs. Spa facilities include allow you to discover first-hand indoor/outdoor pools (with cascades and water jet beds), a steam room, and a Jacuzzi. Private outdoor Atacama’s landscapes and culture on hot tubs are made for relaxation and contemplate a beautiful desert sunset. Outdoor lounges with open foot, horseback or by bicycle. explora fires provide the perfect location to ponder the magnificent night skies (great views of the Milky Way) and Atacama offers a four-night horseback enjoy a glass of wine with friends after a day full of adventure and relaxation. Gastronomy is an integral riding programmes that allows you to part of the Tierra Atacama experience and healthy locally sourced produce is matched with an extensive experience one of the most extreme wine list which allows guests to enjoy a wide selection of excellent Chilean wines and local craft beers. A landscapes on this planet. vegetarian menu and a children's menu are available.

16 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 17 ULTIMATE TO DO LIST - Latin America Latin America - ULTIMATE TO DO LIST Antarctic XXI - A magical blend of Because Antarctica is so spectacular, adventure and elegance... with access to your mode of transport should be too. Antarctica XXI not only allows you some of the most remote places on earth to cruise along the peninsula, spotting incredible wildlife, but to forgo passing Antarctica through the fearsome Drake Passage. Known as the roughest ocean in the This solitary continent at the end world, it can better be seen from the of the world lures adventurers safety and comfort of the BAE-146 to its vast wilderness of ice plane. and snow. Glistening blue- Antarctica XXI expeditions are first-class ‘boutique’ discovery tinted glaciers, carved by the journeys offering guests the experience elements over time into surreal of a lifetime while ensuring shapes, harbour huge colonies environmentally-responsible practices. of sea birds and emperor, The journeys are designed with the active adventurer in mind, with several chinstrap and Adelié penguins. landings each day via Zodiac boats. Elephant and Weddell seals All expeditions are offered on-board and humpback and minke the luxurious 68-passenger (all outside whales are a few others who cabins) ice-strengthened vessel, M/V Ocean Nova. The trips start and/or call Antarctica home. Modern- end in Punta Arenas, Chile. day adventurers navigate The Classic Antarctica Air-Cruise through narrow passageways (seven-days/six-nights) includes return between the South Shetland air transfers from Punta Arenas, Chile to Antarctica and the cruise along Islands, following the path of the Antarctic Peninsula. Special Air- early 20th century explorer Cruises include one leg to Antarctica Sir Ernest Shackleton or kayak by air and the other by sea. up to icebergs for even closer views—and, weather permitting, 1, 2 even camp on the ice. Antarctica is the planet’s most Antarctic Exploring - Colossal and exhilarating destination, and Lindblad’s magical ice forms, up-close wildlife expedition-style of travel ensures an viewing and spending time in the last great enriching, once-in-a-lifetime experience. wilderness on earth The journey takes place aboard their 148-guest National Geographic Explorer, a state-of-the-art, fully stabilised, ice-class vessel featuring luxury accommodations, an Internet café and a spa. 1. Antarctic XX1 Accompanied by veteran expedition 2. Antarctic Exploring naturalists, you will take hikes through penguin communities in pristine wilderness, cruise in an inflatable Zodiac among soaring icebergs, and kayak in quiet coves and around ice floes studded with wildlife. You will also explore places few humans have ever been – the Antarctic undersea – thanks to the skill of the on-board undersea specialists who film the aquatic wonders on HD video. In addition to Lindblad’s expert crew, a National Geographic photographer helps you hone your camera skills during on-board seminars and practical instruction out in the field. Lindblad’s Antarctica expedition might be the single greatest travel adventure of your life.

18 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 19 ULTIMATE TO DO LIST - Latin America Latin America - ULTIMATE TO DO LIST Copacabana Palace by Orient-Express Recently fully renovated, the famous A glamorous Art-Deco landmark Copacabana Palace presents itself Rio de in a brand new contemporary style. overlooking Copacabana Beach Superbly positioned overlooking the Janeiro & sea, this glamorous hotel in Rio has Brazil been welcoming the rich and famous since its doors swung open in 1923. Cerulean waters and pristine From the Andes to the Atlantic and the Amazon in between, Brazil buzzes with energy. Renowned Beyond Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers beaches, enchanting colonial for its beautiful, fun-loving people, this immense country knows how to celebrate life. On gorgeous Rio—the very name immediately danced here and The Rolling Stones beaches – which seem to stretch out endlessly from the jungle – legions of perfectly bronzed locals prepared, in one of its grandest salons, towns and rugged landscapes, conjures up images—the kick around a football, practice capoeira and drink beer against a backdrop of thumping samba beats. before their 2006 concert on the beach. dense jungles and music- In Rio (the nation’s spiritual capital), in cosmopolitan Sao Paulo and even in little villages, the festive flamboyant costumes of Carnival; Brazil jet-setters gather and soak up the filled metropolises—Brazil streets pulsate to the beat. the outstretched arms of the by the magnificent pool adjacent to is a land of contrasts. Come in February for Carnival, the planet’s biggest and most raucous party. Try to wrap your head mountaintop statue of Christ; and the Bar do Copa. around the fact that in the same country – beneath impenetrable rainforest canopy – are the world’s the sandy beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana Palace boasts one largest number of un-contacted peoples. Contradictions and diversity define this exuberant destination, Copacabana, filled with beautiful of Rio’s finest spas. Relax in this offering a window into the diversity of Brazilian culture. Brazil’s unique natural environment offers sophisticated sanctuary and enjoy the bodies and immortalised in song. countless activities such as kayaking through the Anavilhanas (a labyrinth of 400 islands in the Rio treatment rituals to tone, revitalise Negro) or exploring coral reefs off the Bahia coast and the remote Fernando de Noronha archipelago, And it’s easy to dive in—whether and purify both body and soul. or motoring under the explosive Iguazú Falls, a genuine natural wonder. you fancy dancing to sultry samba Within these elegant and tranquil at a club or joining the cheers of surroundings, its features include seven 100,000 fans at a football game treatment rooms, two double treatment at Maracana Stadium—friendly suites, fitness centre, hair salon, wet/ dry sauna and relaxation area. The locals encourage participation. hair salon is one of the most exclusive Fashionistas, foodies and art lovers in Rio. Restaurant Cipriani combines find a non-stop mecca in sprawling the best in Italian and Brazilian . Sao Paulo. And in between, at the Casual dining and Sunday brunch are fabulous beach resorts Búzios and available poolside. After dinner, mingle Florianopolis, the party never stops. with locals at the Piano Bar.

Villa Casa Cairucu Accessible only by boat, Villa Casa Cairucu overlooks crystal clear, protected waters of a bay in one of Brazil’s most spectacular settings. The villa is modern and fully-equipped with stunning views, and one can often see turtles and dolphins from the terrace. With three double en- suite bedrooms and an additional single room, the home is perfect for families, groups of friends or for honeymooners.

Hotel Santa Teresa The Hotel Santa Teresa, the newest 40-room boutique design hotel in Rio, is also the city's only Relais & Chateaux property. Le SPA features beauty and relaxation treatments using Natura, an eco-Amazonian brand. The restaurant Térèze, with its industrial wood, linen and steel design, is frequented by the high society of Cariocas and offers the best of with a Brazilian flair, created by Chef Damien Montecer.

20 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 21 ULTIMATE TO DO LIST - Latin America Latin America - ULTIMATE TO DO LIST Tivoli Ecoresort Praia do Forte - Just an Surrounded by coconut groves in Pousada Maravilha - Hidden away on the Pousada Maravilha’s five posh hour north from Salvador, this exclusive the middle of a rainforest preserve, mountainous island of Fernando de Noronha bungalows and three luxury the hotel boasts a nearly deserted apartments offer unobstructed views where dolphins and sea turtles outnumber Salvador ecoresort combines luxury with pristine 12-kilometre beach where sea turtles of dramatic sea cliffs and volcanic natural beauty nest and lay their eggs. Just walking visitors rock formations rising out of the do Bahia & distance away is the charming emerald waters of Baía do Sueste, the fishermen’s village Praia do Forte. horseshoe-shaped home of a marine Divided amongst 18 cottages, the turtle nursery. The warm seas are Beyond resort’s 287-rooms are scattered over perfect for sailing, diving, snorkelling 75-acres of lush tropical gardens. and swimming. There is also excellent Stroll the narrow cobbled streets Each gorgeous room is tastefully scuba diving nearby. of the UNESCO protected old outfitted in natural fibres and features Designed by acclaimed architect town of Salvador do Bahia, contemporary, elegant décor and Thiago Bernardes, this unique, stunning panoramic views of either sustainable pousada combines rusticity Brazil’s first capital in 1549. Take the gardens or the sea of Praia do and comfort, and features an excellent in the well-preserved, pastel- Forte. With a heated infinity pool restaurant, infinity pool and spa. In hued Spanish colonial houses and a large relaxation garden, Tivoli 2009, Condé Nast Johansens named and the gilded Baroque-looking Ecoresort Praia do Forte is home to Maravilha the ‘Best Small Hotel in Brazil’s largest Thalasso Spa, an oasis South America.’ churches, adorned inside with where treatments are designed to gold, silver and precious gems. achieve a balance between the body Visit the Museo de Arte Sacra and the mind. At the property’s three 4 (housed in a former Carmelite restaurants, you may feast on fresh salads, home-made pastas and local 1 monastery) to see one of Brazil’s 5 fish, as well as typical Bahian delicacies 2, 3 most important collections of like tapioca and beiju (manioc bread). religious art. Shop for souvenirs Dende Bar serves a traditional at Mercado Modelo. Catch a Brazilian lunch poolside. Bubble Bar Chandon is a gathering place on the boat to Sao Marcelo do Mar beach. Fortress. Linger at a sidewalk café, sipping strong coffee and admiring women in their This coastline, lined with un-crowded Uxua Casa Hotel white sand beaches, is a well-kept Txai Resort - Nestled between densely traditional clothing—colourful Uxua Casa is a luxury boutique secret but a favourite escape for forested mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, shawls, long full skirts and 1. Tivoli Ecoresort Praia do Forte hotel in the fishing village of Brazilians. The architecture is inspired and sits on Itacarezinho Beach on Brazil’s turban-like head coverings. Trancoso, on Brazil’s southeastern by old cocoa plantation houses – rustic 2. Uxua Casa Hotel largely undeveloped Cocoa Coast Bahian coast. Wilbert Das, former simplicity combined with style and 3. Fazenda São Francisco Creative Director of Diesel, is luxury. Spacious, king-bedded suites are do Corumbau the brains behind this enchanting in a central building facing the ocean or 4. Pousada Maravilha eco-chic retreat. The one- to three- in private bungalows built on suspended 5. Txai Resort bedroom casas are the epitome of wooden decks. All have air-conditioning rustic modernism with Southern and private balconies with panoramic Bahian and Indian design influences. ocean views. Bungalow baths feature Each of the ten casas has a kitchen, outdoor showers. private garden, open-air bath, satellite The resort offers a 35-degree TV and Wi-Fi. Shamash therapeutic bath with big ocean views, a full-service spa, and five Fazenda São Francisco do pools. Enjoy the use of the tennis courts Corumbau and well-equipped gymnasium. Guests Set on a coconut palm farm can hike to waterfalls, go river rafting surrounded by virgin mangrove and surfing. swamps and a long pristine beach, Located on the beach, the two Fazenda São Francisco combines candle-lit restaurants serve organic the comfort of a luxury hotel with Bahian specialities paired with fine the charming, relaxed atmosphere wines. The pool bar offers exotic of a beach house. Spacious and cocktails. The meals are simple but at sophisticated beach-front suites and the same time sophisticated and are bungalows are shaded by palm fronds prepared with fresh, locally sourced and give ultimate privacy and stunning ingredients. views. Enjoy world-class diving on the doorstep.

22 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 23 ULTIMATE TO DO LIST - Latin America Latin America - ULTIMATE TO DO LIST Titilaka Hotel- Excursions, activities and Titilaka, a modern all-inclusive truly spectacular views of Lake Titicaca lodge on a remote peninsula on the Peruvian shores of Lake Titicaca, offers a luxurious refuge from which to explore the treasured natural, cultural Peru and historical resources of this mystical Arequipa, region. Surrounded by stunning High Andean peaks where Once you see the mystically enchanting Andean highlands of Peru, you will understand why the scenery and pristine geography, Puno majestic condors soar, steamy Incas considered this place as the centre of their empire. Cradled by cloud-shrouded peaks, surrounded Titilaka’s contemporary design rainforests of the Amazon by cultivated fields of quinoa, the Inca erected stone temples without mortar. They laid roads the length integrates with the environment and of the country and melted gold into every form imaginable—from wall décor to hand plows. Over pays homage to the native cultures of & Lake basin, nearly limitless coastal eight centuries later, we still thrill to the seeing sun rising behind the ruins of Machu Picchu and to hik- Lake Titicaca. All 18 airy, stylish rooms destinations and the almost ing the mythical Inca Trail. have lake views and heated floors; Titicaca mythical Machu Picchu. This spellbinding country also has desert-meets-sea beaches, lush Amazonian jungle and magnificent the suites have spa bathrooms with volcanoes, as well as captivating cities that inspire travellers both young and old. Wander through a first overflow tubs. The hotel is not only Arequipa, an elegant colonial century adobe city, feel colonial ghosts in the glorious Cusco cathedrals, fly over the mysterious Nazca a welcoming lodge, it offers cycling, town, sits surrounded by snow- desert drawings, visit the Uros people on floating islands in Lake Titicaca and feast on alpaca steak and kayaking, star-gazing, hikes to Titilaka capped volcanoes. Explore ceviche in stylish eateries in Lima. Or go off the beaten track to the alabaster city of Arequipa, spot Arch and visits to the amazing Uros condors from a gorge twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, sandboard or buggy over dunes in Paracas Floating Islands. the sacred azure waters of and sail to Peru’s own version of the Galapagos Islands. Lake Titicaca. From Puno, sail to the lake's floating islands, home of pre-Incan Uros tribe.

Las Casitas del Colca The Colca Valley, located in 1, 2 Arequipa, south of Lima, has one 3 of the deepest canyons in the world. Las Casitas del Colca is located in this peaceful setting. It is the perfect retreat to get in touch with nature whether you ride a Peruvian Paso horse, swim in the pool, feed the alpacas or take a walk through the vegetable gardens. The 20 simple, comfortable guest rooms have 1. Titilaka Hotel fireplaces, soaking bathtubs and 2. Casa Andina Private complimentary Wi-Fi. Collection Puno 3. Las Casitas del Colca Casa Andina Private Collection Isla Suasi Built from local materials, the solar-powered eco-lodge sits below flower-covered terraces on a 106- acre private island in Lake Titicaca. Many bird species, rare vicunas and vizcachas live on this magical island. Guests can hike, paddle, or visit the massage room and sauna. All 24 cosy rooms and the private Andean Cottage have panoramic lake views. Cuisine fuses Andean ingredients with modern techniques.

24 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 25 ULTIMATE TO DO LIST - Latin America Latin America - ULTIMATE TO DO LIST Inca Trail to Machu Picchu by In four-days, trekkers pass through Explorandes Peru - Energise your senses many Andean environments – from mountain scenery to the lush cloud Machu in one of the most magical places forest and ending in the subtropical in the world—the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu rainforest. Starting at the Sacred Valley Picchu of the Incas, explorers find remote Inca archaeological sites and enjoy Machu Picchu, the phenomenal landscapes filled with exotic flora ‘Lost City of the Incas,’ sits like and fauna. Entering Machu Picchu a proud lion perched on a high through the Gate of the Sun is one of the most captivating experiences of plateau (2,430-metres above the trail. The last day, trekkers will feel sea level) in a tropical mountain the climax of the trip visiting Machu forest that is perpetually Picchu. Along the way trekkers sleep swathed in ribbons of clouds. in two-person tents – set up (and taken down) by porters. The city was built in the Explorandes, the pioneer adventure 15th century and is a marvel tour operator in Peru since 1975, offers of mortar-free limestone trekkers exclusive camping areas and architecture. It is probably the specialised equipment and guides to fulfil this unique experience in a most amazing urban creation comfortable way. Explorandes is always of the Inca Empire at its zenith. concerned about the environment Although the site was known and with sustainable and cultural locally, it was unknown to preservation. It was selected as the World’s Leading Green Tour Operator 1, 2, 3, 4 the outside world until it in the 2012 World Travel Awards. was ‘discovered’ in 1911 by Explorandes offers departures every American historian Hiram Wednesday and Sunday during Inca Bingham. Approach aboard Trail season. a train or take the multi-day hiking trail but make sure you

see the ruins at sunrise. Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel This luxury boutique hotel is tucked inside the Machu Picchu Natural and Historical Sanctuary 1. Machu Picchu Journey Spread out over 12-acres of tropical cloud forest, the by Mountain Lodges of Peru Machu Picchu Journey by Mountain Lodges of Peru- A life-changing intimate Inkaterra is designed to feel like an Andean village. 2. Inca Trail to Machu Picchu journey to Machu Picchu in comfort and style The 85 one- and two-storey cottages nestled into terraced by Explorandes Peru Follow the footsteps of the Incas and experience an extraordinary adventure. Mountain Lodges of hills are connected by stone pathways through orchid-filled 3. Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel Peru – a group of boutique hotels highly focused on customer service – offers unique Lodge to Lodge gardens. Cottages have king-sized beds, spa-style bathrooms Treks and Equestrian Journeys to Machu Picchu. Oriented to soft adventure and social responsibility, the and fireplaces. Soft alpaca blankets are a nice touch. Enjoy 4. The Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge trek leads travellers in style (including hot picnic lunches) via the Salkantay Inca Trail to Machu Picchu the eucalyptus sauna, followed by a star-lit dip in the plunge Sanctuary. pool. The glass-walled restaurant boasts stunning views of the Mountain Lodges of Peru offers adventure at its best: the opportunity to experience the essence Vilcanota River. of a life-changing adventure within the luxury of revitalising comforts. During this unique seven-day Guided nature excursions include bird watching, viewing experience, you will hike or ride un-crowded ancient trails through nine different biozones, traverse a sacred pre-Inca pictographs and enjoying 372 species of mountain pass at 4,600-metres, see the convergence of three rivers, discover communities where locals native orchids in the hotel garden. maintain age-old traditions, and witness the majesty of Machu Picchu – the crown jewel of the Inca Empire. Guests spend the nights in four intimate and comfortable lodges located in strategic points along the route. Each one offers gourmet Andean cuisine, outdoor Jacuzzi, sauna, bar and lounge, The Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge cosy and well-appointed rooms. All four mountain lodges have been designed and built in accordance At the edge of the Machu Picchu Citadel located over with traditional building techniques, Inca architectural and mythological concepts, and respect for the the mountain that accesses the lost city of the Incas, The surrounding environment. The Salkantay Lodge has 12 private rooms with private bathroom facilities, Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge (an Orient-Express Hotel) Contact a Travelbag expert while the other lodges (Wayra, Colpa, Lucma) have six en-suite rooms. Salkantay, Wayra, and Colpa is a place where nature lovers will discover the myriad orchid consultant to tailor-make lodges have outdoor Jacuzzis. Every lodge guarantees an ample supply of hot water for showers. species that grow all year inside the property and will enjoy your Ultimate Latin America Professional massage services are available. A satellite-based phone system is available for making local . Spacious rooms offer views across the experience. international calls. Mountain Lodges of Peru adheres strictly to Fair Tourism practices, with a strong dramatic undulating landscape of the Sacred Valley. Call 0844 846 8992 for details emphasis on social and environmental issues. This allows travellers an opportunity to ‘Give Back and or visit your local Go Green.’ Travelbag shop.

26 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 27 Costa Rica - LATIN AMERICA

Costa Rica In need of a little adventure? Head to the emerging tourist destination that is Costa Rica Words by Liam Creedon

28 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 29 LATIN AMERICA - Costa Rica Costa Rica - LATIN AMERICA

liding weightlessly through high in the canopy. An agouti - a sort a white tunnel with the view of giant, swollen hamster - crashed in obscured by a soft, billowing the undergrowth metres from our feet. G mist must surely be what it Following our exertions on horse- feels like to die. Except, in the final mo- back, an afternoon by the river had ments before shuffling off this mortal been promised, however relaxing it was coil, I shouldn’t be seeing monkeys not. The Hacienda, like much of Costa gibbering away metres below me. And Rica, specialises in terrifying outdoor that fine spray of mud angling on to activities. We were to “tube” down the my face was certainly not a fitting way Rio . to enter the afterlife. A splodge of Tubing, like zip wiring, requires mud in the eye does wonders to bring the temporary abandonment of one’s Keel Billed Toucan you back to reality. Of course I wasn’t sanity. Arriving alongside the raging dying - I was zip wiring, careering torrent, we were presented with crash Capuchin monkey above the Costa Rican cloud forest. helmets, life vests and a large rubber The extreme sport is fast becoming as ring. The ring, it transpires, is a giant synonymous with Costa Rica as bungee inner-tube, hence the term “tubing”. jumping is with New Zealand. We were instructed to sit upon it and Costa Rica is also an ecological abandon our fate to the current. hotspot. Its position as a land bridge Despite the ever-present and deeply linking two continents, its climate and alarming sensation of terror, tubing over-active geology, combine to create down the river was utterly exhilarating. one of the world’s leading environ- You plunge down the steeply de- Arenal Volcano mental destinations. Wildlife lovers and scending, boulder-strewn river, the fero- more intrepid travellers have known cious, frothing flow often twisting and chorus from the undergrowth. platform and into the abyss. this for years, flocking to the cloud turning you backwards, the impending The Monteverde Cloud Forest, high Then you’re transplanted into a forests, reefs and volcanoes to glimpse roar of the water and screams of your in the mist-wreathed mountains, is a wildlife documentary as the forest pre- its seemingly endless variety of wildlife. companions the only clue that you are haven for both scientists and tourists. sents itself from a totally unexpected Costa Ricans, or ‘Ticos’, are fiercely once again about to plunge down the The former attracted by the mind- angle. proud not only of their ecological next set of rapids. Respite came the boggling variety of species, the latter Below my feet, tops of jungle giants riches but also of their country’s stabil- next day in the guise of cocktails, coatis by the numerous ways of terrifying loomed momentarily as I sped by, their ity and prosperity in the unsettled Cen- and lava. We were heading inland themselves. branches gloved in slime-green lichen tral American region. A telling boast is towards Costa Rica’s volcanic spine. But before we went zip wiring like and decorated with luxuriant brome- that Costa Rica employs more teachers Dramatic bursts of rainforest bulged latter-day Tarzans, we met some of the liad plants, nestling in crevices like than police. And, even more remarka- from the roadside as we rose higher. forest’s more spectacular inhabitants. elaborate, leafy nests. bly, it has no army. These factors make The journey was momentarily cur- Costa Rica is a hummingbird hot- All too soon the final zip wire was Costa Rica, or the ‘rich coast’ as its tailed by a group of badger-like coatis spot, boasting more than 40 species, completed. I realised I couldn’t stop Spanish translation testifies, a unique commandeering the road. with evocative names such as mangoes, smiling. I wanted to do it again. But tourist spot and the Guanacaste region An inquisitive male, furious at be- emeralds and sabrewings. Costa Rica is not just about adrenalin is particularly popular. ing denied entry to our van, lifted his A small clearing of Selvatura Forest hits in the great outdoors. A catamaran One of the first surprises about metre-long tail imperiously into the air Park was set aside and decorated with voyage out from the black sands of Guanacaste (it’s named after a tree at us before haughtily stomping off. small bird feeders luring in what on Potrero Beach into the inky Pacific had whose seeds look like a human ear) is The brooding Arenal Volcano first glance seemed to be a squadron of started our trip in style. that it is cowboy country. Despite the dominates this part of the country and flying jewels. The hummers, resplend- And it was back to the coast for re- profusion of jeeps, the horse is king. provides a patchwork of volcanic pools, ent in emerald and turquoise plumage, cuperation at our final destination, the We got into the saddle at the Haci- some of them cool enough to enjoy buzzed in to gorge on the sugary solu- jumbo-sized RIU hotel on the butter- enda Guachipelin, a working farm in without needing immediate first aid. tion laid out for them. Despite being coloured crescent of Playa Matapalo the foothills of the Rincon de la Vieja From one such oasis, the Eco- wild, they came close enough for you to beach. I sat in the surf supping guaro national park. The ecological richness termales Hot Springs, we supped feel their wing beats on your face. as a damson sunset bleached into the of the country doesn’t take long to sur- sundowners made from the local fire But it was no good trying to put sea. Thirty metres away, pelicans dived prise and delight. We took a horseback spirit - guaro. it off any longer, it was time for zip into a bait ball of fish hiding below the ride through butterfly-strewn meadows, Steam rising up from the pools add- wiring. We were to shoot down 10 surface, the giant birds joined in the Monteverde Cloud Forest the tropical giants littering the grass- ed to the Jurassic feel of the place as different wires, some two kilometres in inky water by the occasional flippers land like cobalt and crimson confetti. the vapour mingled with the dripping length, with only a thick leather-gloved of dolphin joining the feast. Heaven Costa Rica is actively volcanic and muddle of tropical vegetation before hand as a brake. Being a cloud forest seemed very close at hand. KEY FACTS COSTA RICA Rincon boats devilish-looking mud twisting off into the darkness. the view was, well, pretty cloudy. The • BEST FOR - Stunning scenery and wildlife, exhilarating outdoor pools, that blister and spit at tempera- Tiny poison arrow frogs supplied wire in front of me disappeared into activities, luxurious beachside retreats. tures hot enough to strip flesh from the evening entertainment as we sat down the impenetrable mist. As you sit in • TIME TO GO - Rainy season subsides in late November, with bone. We retreated into a jungle which to the Costa Rican and beans your harness, there is a sudden jarring Travelbag’s 10 day Spirit of Costa Rica tour costs from £1,149pp twin share glorious tropical sun from December to mid-March. quickly began to reveal its secrets. staple of gallo pinto, their chirping, contact of metal on metal, gravity takes including return international flights from London with United Airlines. • DON’T MISS - Zip wiring above the pristine cloud forest. Capuchin monkeys screamed from squeaking calls leading a veritable frog you and, slowly, you edge out of the Call 0844 846 8992 for details or visit your local Travelbag shop. • NEED TO KNOW - Most places take US dollars as well as the local currency, the Costa Rican colon.

30 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 31 ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE WORLDWIDE South Africa TOURING

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Essential Vietnam & Cambodia 17 Days, Hanoi to Bangkok fr £1,659 A wide-ranging adventure showcasing the region’s natural wonders and fascinating cultures. This 17-day trip offers a combination of guided excursions and free time to explore beaches and ruins, urban culture and awe-inspiring landscapes. Cruise the Mekong for a day and overnight on a traditional sailing junk in Halong Bay. Witness the heights of Cambodia’s past at Angkor Wat and contemplate its lows walking the infamous Killing Fields. Although many activities are included, there is still plenty of time to explore on your own and create the Essential China ultimate adventure. What’s Included 21 Days, Beijing to Hong Kong fr £2,049 • Return international flights. Encounter the essence of China in all its wonderful diversity – • Entrance to Halong Bay caves, Halong Bay boat trip and climb the Great Wall and stare down the Terracotta Warriors before with lunch and seafood dinner, Imperial Citadel and tomb, heading down south on this 3-week tour of China’s cultural and Cu Chi tunnels, Mekong Delta day trip, Phnom Penh cyclo tour, Entrance to Tuol Sleng and ‘Killing Fields’, Entrance and natural highlights. Rest your gaze on the giant Buddha of Leshan, guide to Angkor Wat temple complex including Sunrise Tour. ancient mountainside monasteries at Emei Shan then float down the • 13 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner. (Allow USD325-375 for world-famous Three Gorges of the Yangtze River before stepping out meals not included). to experience the vibrant rural life and stunning scenery of Yangshuo. • Hotels (14 nts), sleeper train (1 nt), junk boat (1 nt). With your accommodation and transport arranged by expert CEOs, • Train, local bus, air-con bus, plane, walking, cyclo, boat. this adventure offers up a great combination of must-see highlights and • Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, local guides free time to explore on your own. • Small group experience; Max 15, Avg 10. What’s Included • Return international flights. • Tiananmen Square and Forbidden City guided tour, Entrance to the Great Wall, Shanghai Museum, Terracotta Warriors tour, Panda Sanctuary excursion, Mount Emei admission, Entrance to the Leshan Giant Buddha, Overnight in a monastery, Three Gorges boat trip, Three Gorges tributary excursion, Full day Yangshuo guided bike ride. Cambodia • 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner. (Allow USD300-420 for meals not included). • Hotels (12 nts), basic monastery (2 nt), sleeper trains (4 nts), Yangtze boat (2 nts). • Train, local bus, air-con bus, boat, walking, bicycle, plane. • English-speaking Chinese Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, local guides. • Small group experience; Max 16, Avg 10. Indochina Encompassed The Great Wall of China 29 Days, Bangkok to Bangkok fr £1,999 From the vibrant cityscape of Bangkok to Classic Burma Adventure What’s Included Halong Bay’s magnificent limestone karsts, this trip 14 Days, Yangon to Yangon fr £1,9790 • Return international flights. encompasses the highlights of Indochina. Marvel at As a relative newcomer to adventure travel, exploring • Shwedagon Pagoda (Yangon), Mandalay combo entry ticket the wonders of Angkor Wat, sail the Mekong and the enigmatic and mysterious nation of Burma often feels (most sights in Mandalay), Golden Rock, Amarapura, Sagaing, guided tour of Bagan Archaeological Zone, Irrawaddy River boat savour noodles in Chiang Mai. Shop for souvenirs in like setting foot on a foreign, untouched planet. With trip, half day boat tour of Inle Lake including floating villages, Ho Chi Minh City and join the locals sipping coffee few other travellers to contend with, the natural and Shwemawdaw Stupa, boat trip to Mingun, U Bein Bridge, Mahagandayong Monastery, Sagaing Hills Meditation Centre, Mt at a lakeside cafe in Hanoi. With hotels, transport man-made wonders of this underexplored part of South Popa, hill tribe hike. and a number of included activities arranged by East Asia often feel like they’ve been placed here just for • 13 breakfasts, 1 lunch. (Allow USD250-350 for meals not our CEOs, this adventure offers up the perfect you. And oh, what wonders they are: Inle Lake’s unique included). combination of must-see highlights and free time. ‘floating gardens’, the staggering imperial ruins of ancient • Hotels (12 nts), simple guesthouse (1 nt). • Private bus, public bus, plane, boat, bicycle, walking. What’s Included Bagan, the incomparable palaces of Mandalay and • Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, local guides. • Return international flights. enveloping forests throughout. Unknown pleasures await. • Small group experience; Max 15, Avg 10 • Bangkok Klong trip, Entrance and guide to Wat Po, Entrance Come find them. to Doi Suthep, Entrance to Pak Ou caves, Guided tour Traditional Arts & Ethnology Museum (Luang Prabang), Kuang Si Falls trek (half day), Traditional local Lao homestay experience, Water puppets performance, Entrance to Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (seasonal), Halong Bay caves entrance, Halong Bay boat cruise with seafood lunch and dinner, Entrance to Imperial Citadel and tomb, Cu Chi Tunnels entrance, Mekong Delta Day Trip, Phnom Penh cyclo tour, Entry and guide to Tuol Sleng and Choeung Ek (Killing Fields), Entry and guide to Angkor Wat complex including Sunrise Tour. • 20 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners. (Allow USD600-800 for meals not included). • Hotels (24 nts), village homestay (1 nt), sleeper train (2 nts), junk boat (1 nt). • Train, local bus, air-con bus, plane, walking, songthaew, tuk tuk, boat. • Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, local guides • Small group experience; Max 15, Avg 10. Angkor Wat

34 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 35 ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Australia South to North 18 Days, Melbourne to Darwin fr £2,499 You can’t get Down Under through a bus window. If you’re going to get off the tourist track, you’ll have to East Coast Australia in Style shake things up a bit – that’s why this tour uses trains, 4x4s, 10 Days, Sydney to Cairns fr £2,159 buses and boats for this itinerary. From the cobblestones of This comfort-minded journey up Australia’s eastern shore charming Melbourne, cut through the outback and explore delivers the wonders of the region to you in fine style. Using the mysteries of Uluru. Follow your curiosity down the a diverse range of transport – trains, yachts, surfboards – and deserted tracks that make Australia so remote and spend 18 unique lodgings, you’ll visit remote islands, sample world class days discovering the natural beauty of one of the world’s wines, wander through rainforests and even learn how to most awe-inspiring destinations. catch a few waves. Plus, we keep your group size intentionally What’s Included small so it feels less like travelling with a herd and more like • Return international flights. exploring with great new friends. • Rainforest walk in Great Otway National Park, visit to the 12 Apostles, visit to Tower Hill National Park, evening walk in Grampians National Park, Coorong National Park, Clare Valley wine tasting, Remarkable What’s Included National Park, visit to an Aboriginal centre, visit to the salt lake of Lake Eyre including remote thermal • Return international flights. springs, underground mine tour, champagne sunset viewing of Uluru, Marla walk around Uluru and visit to the culture centre, hikes at Kata Tjuta (the Olgas) and Kings Canyon, crocodile spotting boat cruise, • Sydney harbour yacht ride, Sydney orientation walk, Surfing Aboriginal art and craft centre visit, exploration of Kakadu National Park and Litchfield National Park. lessons with a local (Byron Bay), Yoga lesson, Whitsunday Islands sailing trip, Scenic train journey to Cairns, Aboriginal village visit • 17 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 10 dinners (Allow AUD220-260 for meals that are not included). with an opportunity to try spearfishing (Port Douglas). • Basic hotels (4 nts, some multi-share), lodges (3 nts, some multi-share), camping in ‘swag’ or tent (6 nts), • 8 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 1 dinners. (Allow AUD200-300 for meals cabins (2 nts), underground hostel (1 nt, multi-share), overnight train (1 nt, airline-style seating). not included.) • Private bus, train, 4x4, boat. • Comfort hotels (3 nts), beach resort/hotel (6 nts). • Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, local guides. • Private bus, plane, local bus, , yacht, train, walking. Sydney • Small group experience; Max 18, avg 12. • Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, local guides. • Small group experience; Max 18, avg 12.

New Zealand Encompassed Australia in Style What’s Included 24 Days, Auckland to Auckland fr £2,599 21 Days, Sydney to Melbourne £3,779 • Return international flights. It dosen’t look so big on the map, but New Zealand It’s tough to cover all of Australia in a single trip. This • Sydney harbour yacht ride, Sydney orientation walk, Included is positively massive once you’re there in person. This three-week extravaganza incorporates all the absolute surfing lessons with a local (Byron Bay), Yoga lesson. comprehensive 24-day trip – our longest in this part of Whitsunday Islands sailing trip, Scenic train journey to Cairns, must-do bits of Australia into one legendary adventure. Aboriginal village visit with an opportunity to try spearfishing the world – delivers the most immersive NZ experience From the bustling cities dotting the coast to Australia’s (Port Douglas), King Canyon walk, Visit to Uluru and a local possible. Get close to the land by exploring volcanoes, arts centre, Local mine visit in Coober Pedy, Hiking in Flinders wine country, from the outback and iconic Uluru to the Ranges National Park, Clare Valley wine tasting, Adelaide national parks, sustainable farms, and meet the water beach, the Great Barrier Reef and even the legendary orientation walk, Visit to Brambuk Aboriginal Cultural Centre, up-close on expert-led kayak excursions and during surf dreamtime itself, you’ll leave no stone unturned on this Exploring Grampians National Park, Great Ocean Road drive, lessons. Best of all, you’ll get to explore the magnificent Great Otway National Park rainforest walk. trip. We’ll connect the dots with internal flights and Bay of Islands, home to some of the world’s top fishing. 24 • 19 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 6 dinners. (Allow AUD400-500 for New Zealand in Style historic train journeys to keep you cozy and unstressed meals not included). 11 Days, Auckland to Queenstown fr £2,299 days? You’ll wish it was longer. throughout. • Comfort hotels (12 nts), Comfort motel (2 nts) beach resort/ An all-encompassing yet comfortable journey through What’s Included hotel (6 nts). New Zealand that delivers the highlights of the region • Return international flights. • Private bus, taxi, plane, local bus, ferry, yacht, train, walking. with stye to spare. Utilizing a diverse range of transport • Snorkelling, kayaking and hiking in the Bay • Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, local guides. – trains, gondolas, boats – you’ll explore artsy beach of Islands, visit to a conservation farm, sea • Small group experience; Max 16, avg 12. kayaking in remote coves, surf lesson, Maori towns, learn about local myths, legends and traditional cultural experience, Tongariro Alpine Crossing cuisine from the Maori and revel in the breathtaking 7(seasonal), Te Papa Museum, Abel Tasman National Park, visit to a seal colony, walks beauty of New Zealand. Handpicked accommodations in Franz Josef National Park, sea kayaking and upgraded transportation are standard fare on this into Doubtful Sound, mountain biking excursion, orientation walks in Wellington decidedly non-standard adventure. This trip offers and Christchurch. everything you could possibly want... and then some. • 23 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 13 dinners. (Allow NZD350-400 for meals not included). • Hostels (8 nts), basic hotels (3 nts), What’s Included houseboat (1 nt), eco camp (3 nts), lodges (6 nts), cabins (1 nt), floating boat hostel (1 • Return international flights. nt, summer, cabin in winter months). Most • Visit scenic Bridal Veil Falls for a walk, lunch cruise on Raglan harbour, visit an nights are quad-share. eco farm to learn about local conservation, hike in Tongariro National Park, • Private bus, kayak, boat, ferry. explore the Lake Taupo region, soak in geothermal spa pools, visit an historic Maori Village with a local guide, orientation walk in Christchurch, enjoy • Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, the scenic TranzAlpine Train, gondola ride, wilderness cruise (winter) and local guides. overnight on Doubtful Sound (summer). • Small group experience; Max 18, avg 12. • 10 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 4 dinners. (Allow NZD140-200 for meals not included). • Comfort hotel (8 nts), local holiday home (1 nt), cruise boat (1 nt). • Mini-bus, flight, train, boat, walking. • Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, local guides. Uluru, Northern Territory • Small group experience; Max 16, avg 12.

36 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 37 USASearch and book travel and holiday packages to the USA in 2013 and 2014 and save money visiting the USA with Travelbag. We offer a full complement of travel options from flights, hotels and luxury holidays to tours and multi-centre holidays to the USA. We have over 30 years experience in booking flights and arranging holidays to the USA and have a range of deals to suit all tastes and budgets so you can be confident we have your SAU travel needs covered. Our team of travel experts are also on 40 hand to provide detailed information Charleston and useful insights to help tailor make Where history lives holidays to America that are unique and personal to you. 44 Capital Region USA Washington DC, Maryland & Virginia

58 California Seeing Stars & Finding Cinema 62 Heli USA Discover Las Vegas & The Grand Canyon

38 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 39 USA - Charleston Alston House, Edmonston Charleston q where history lives r p ith her confection-coloured antebellum mansions and charming sense of European elegance, Charleston is a cosmopolitan seaside community that remains untouched by fad or fashion. A repository for decorative arts, Charleston exists as one of North America’s most architecturally significant destinations. Called the WHoly City, a nod to the many church steeples that dominate the city’s skyline, Charleston is a preservationist’s muse with her three centuries of well-preserved history on display at every turn. Cobblestones dug from foreign shores and carried to the New World as ballast in the bellies of merchant ships are a burnished roadmap through time and paved into the streets. Doors encircled by moulding carved to resemble twines of rope; tabby quoins, earthquake bolts, and ornate hand-wrought ironwork festoon hundreds of handsome historic dwellings. Carolopolis Award plaques, hitching posts used by horse-drawn carriages, and copper gas carriage lanterns hint at a bygone era. Manicured public parks and glimmers of private gardens turn Charleston into a botanical wonderland, where the delicate aromas of tea olives and Carolina Jessamine dance amid the sea breezes. The harmony of church bells resonates with the hum of the city, which is rooted in the solemnity of ancient graveyards. These are the details that reveal themselves when the Charleston peninsula is explored on foot. Bookended by two rivers that, according to proud Charlestonians, converge to form the Atlantic Ocean, the peninsula is hemmed in by water and sky. Innately walkable, the city’s grid of east-west streets stretches from shore to shore. To strolling along the blue-slate sidewalks and atop the panoramic seawalls is to be enfolded in a state of Old World enchantment. Originally conceived as an enclave of tolerance, the Charleston area quickly emerged as a cultural stronghold amid the colonial landscape. Two key acts; the first opera performed in the colonies (Flora, 1735) and construction of the first permanent playhouse (Dock Street Theatre, 1746), endowing the Charleston area with an indelible fondness for performing arts. p

Charleston Carriage

40 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 41 USA - Charleston Charleston - USA p Today, the two identities, stage and star, are spun together Starting in 2008, three Charleston chefs consecutively won like strands on a helix. This duality is best illustrated the esteemed James Beard Foundation Best Chef Award. by Spoleto Festival USA, the annual compendium of The awards signalled to the world that Charleston, with performing arts that monopolizes the area’s historic theatres, its three-century legacy of farm-to-table cuisine and fresh churches, and outdoor venues for 17 exhilarating days every seafood, was ready to be recognized for its sophisticated May and June. More than 150 performances illuminate interpretations of Southern cuisine. In addition to sharing the city during Spoleto Festival USA – from a renowned the honour, the chefs collectively uphold a locavore chamber music series to moonlight sets by contemporary approach that is evident in their refined interpretations musicians. The city comes alive with the pageantry of Southern ingredients and heirloom recipes. Want to of the performing arts, which culminates in a special experience the heart and soul of Charleston? Taste the concert performed on the grand lawn of Middleton Place cuisine. Benne wafers. Carolina Gold rice. Oyster stew. plantation. Pickled okra. She Crab soup. Shrimp and grits. Comprised Along with the vibrant arts and culture coursing through of heirloom recipes proudly passed from one generation to Charleston, there is much to savour with its nationally the next, has evolved over the past 300 celebrated culinary scene. In Charleston, tastemakers years. Today’s chefs reap the best local seasonal ingredients abound. to create classic dishes that celebrate our Charleston’s authentic flavours. Drayton Hall

he Charleston area is a December A twinkling crowd converge for five nights of

p year round feast for the winter wonderland lines the three-mile apparel and attitude under the tents senses. Spring smells like drive that weaves through James Island in Marion Square during Charleston Ttea olive, summer is salty breezes. Fall County Park during the annual Festival Fashion Week. tastes like slow cooked greens, of Lights, where life-sized greeting One of the world’s largest winter is a hearty bowl of shrimp cards, costumed elves and a carousel 10,000-meter runs is the Cooper River and grits. While certain aspects of bring evoke the magic of the holiday Bridge Run, an incredibly popular foot Lowcountry life are constant no matter season. race that crosses the soaring Arthur the time of year – like the rustle of Ravenel Jr. Bridge—one of the longest palmetto fronds, crashing surf and peal January With 65,000 of the cable stay bridges in North America. of church bells – each season ushers in salty mollusks on the menu, the wildly unique sensations. Here are highlights popular Lowcountry Oyster Festival March – April of annual events that take place in turns Boone Hall Plantation into the Historic Charleston Foundation’s Charleston: world’s largest oyster roast complete Festival of Houses and Gardens with live music and an epic “shucking is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to September Peak at & slurping” eating contest. take a welcomed peek behind the private caches of heirloom silver and garden gates and piazza doors of meander through carefully cultivated February Conservationists, the peninsula’s most vaunted private boxwoods during the Preservation camels, and 40,000 guests all “go residences, museum-quality dwellings Society of Charleston’s docent- wild” at Southeastern Wildlife Expo, rarely viewed by the public. led tours, which invite guests into a three-day celebration of art, animal some of the area’s most historic and demonstrations, environmental April The clay court action is

p architecturally significant dwellings. education, and culinary events as hot as it gets when the world’s top The streets sway with the captivating featuring wild game. seeded female tennis players compete rhythm of African music, while the for the $700,000 purse at the Family smell of permeates March With three consecutive Circle Cup help on picturesque the air during MOJA, a 10-day James Beard Foundation Award- Daniel Island, not far from historic celebration of culture named winning chefs to its credit, Charleston’s Charleston. for the Swahili word meaning “one.” reputation as a prized epicurean destination is stronger than ever, and May – June Since its October Sample a scores of the nation’s renowned chefs inception in 1977, more than 100 smorgasbord of local cuisine during make the pilgrimage to the Charleston productions have premiered at the the Taste of Charleston, an eating Wine + Food Festival’s annual acclaimed Spoleto Festival USA, which extravaganza that lures thousands to celebration of cuisine. draws artists and performers from Boone Hall Plantation for what the High-energy runway shows, roving around the world. Southeastern Tourism Society hails photographers, an emerging designer as one of the “top 20 events in the competition and a see-and-be-seen southeast.” Travelbag offers 3 nights at the 3* Holiday Inn River View Charleston and 3 nights at the 3* Courtyard Myrtle Beach Broadway from £779pp twin share including return international flights from London with Delta Airlines and 7 days car hire. Call 0844 846 8992 for details or visit your local Travelbag shop.

42 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 43 Capital Region - USA

YOUR GUIDE TO Immerse yourself in the authentic American experience by visiting the Capital Region USA. From the memorable monuments of Washington DC to the beautiful beaches and majestic mountains of Maryland and Virginia, history and natural beauty abound. Begin by checking out the inspiring memorials and hip and historic neighbourhoods of Washington, DC, where history is made every day. Feel the power in the seat of America’s government, marked by the striking architecture of its CAPITAL monuments and museums. A visit to one or more of the famous Smithsonian Museums is a must, and with free entry, it’s no wonder the world’s largest museum complex is one of DC’s top attractions. Across DC, sample the work of some of the country’s most celebrated chefs and afterwards, cap off the evening with an after-dinner drink in one of the city’s high-energy clubs. In neighbouring Virginia and Maryland, significant US historic landmarks and cultural attractions converge with awe-inspiring natural beauty, from warm sandy beaches and lakes to REGION national parks and majestic mountains. Follow a scenic byway and discover Maryland and Virginia’s treasured collection of quaint towns and the majestic Blue Ridge and Appalachian mountains, where echoes of colonial life and Civil War heritage coexist with artful contemporary culture. Just one hour north of DC, Baltimore’s buzzing Inner Harbour is the city’s focal point and location for top attractions such as the National Aquarium and the American Visionary Art Museum. Just a short water taxi ride away is Fells Point, the historic cobbled neighbourhood that’s a legacy to Baltimore’s British nautical roots. USA In Virginia’s capital city, Richmond, more than 400 years of history live on Washington, DC through magnificent architecture, monument-lined cobblestone streets, and world-class museums. Encounter the blending of this history and Colonial charm Maryland with the distinctive indulgences of the modern era – from trendy restaurants and upscale shopping to world-class art and stirring attractions. Virginia The Capital Region gazes at its reflection in the famed Chesapeake Bay, America’s largest estuary, spanning 200 miles from the Susquehanna River to the Atlantic Ocean. It offers a stunning diversity of experiences, from sandy beaches MARYLAND to swimming, boating, water sports and authentic waterside villages. The area is Frederick Baltimore known for some of the best blue crabs, oysters and clams you’ll find anywhere. Ellicott City Further east, the Atlantic Ocean resorts of Virginia Beach and Ocean City offer fun in the sun just four hours from downtown DC. Washington, DC Arlington You’re never far from one of the region’s 240+ wineries - earning Annapolis Alexandria awards and accolades from visitors around the world. Wine trails, festivals and local brew pubs make it easy to plan your own tour and tasting itinerary. Ocean Shenandoah City Come and enjoy a Taste of the Capital National Park Region USA.

Assateague Island National Seashore Chesapeake Appalachian Mountain Range Bay VIRGINIA Richmond Williamsburg Roanoke Jamestown

Appalachian Mountain Range

Norfolk Virginia Beach

44 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 45 USA - Capital Region Capital Region - USA

DESTINATION SPOTLIGHT

Annapolis VIRGINIA FUN FACTS America’s longest pleasure beach is Virginia WASHINGTON, DC Beach. More Civil War battles took place in FUN FACTS Virginia than any other state. In Virginia, you’re • The Lincoln Memorial is the most visited monument. never more than an hour away from a state park. • The Smithsonian museums make up the world’s largest museum complex. MARYLAND FABULOUS FOOD & WINE • The National Cherry Blossom Festival is the city’s most famous FUN FACTS With More than 40,000 farms, Virginia is a pioneer event. Maryland features more than 4,000 in the movement for farm-fresh, sustainable Cuisine. miles of shoreline. America’s largest But you’ll find lots of variety here, from sophisticated ICONIC MONUMENTS & HISTORIC SITES estuary is the Chesapeake Bay. The international cuisine to indulgent boardwalk fare. The The National Mall, an open-area park stretching from the Maryland Blue Crab is the official region is ripe for wine grape production. A collection of Capitol building to the Lincoln Memorial has been a relaxing state crustacean. wine trails lead right to many wineries. green space and historic gathering place for more than 100 years. Along it, find four presidential Monuments, three OUTDOOR ADVENTURES WORLD CLASS SHOPPING war memorials and several museums. The area between In the space of 300 miles, a From shopping hubs in Richmond and Northern the Lincoln and Washington monuments is dominated by visitor to Maryland can travel Virginia to smaller-scale shops, boutiques and markets memorials, including The Vietnam Veterans Memorial, over mountains and past rolling with original handmade offerings, it’s easy to take a little one of America’s most recognisable landmarks. Along farmland to the Atlantic Ocean. piece of Virginia home with you. the memorial wall, the names of nearly 60,000 soldiers With both mountains and who died or remain missing is inscribed in black granite. waterfront, there’s an abundance of BEACHES TO MOUNTAINS outdoor recreation, including sailing, Virginia offers the best of both natural MAJOR MUSEUMS kayaking, fishing, mountain biking, worlds. Beaches rich with nature, recreational Discover many of the Smithsonian museums along the hiking, skiing, snowshoeing and even dog opportunities and convenient amenities line Mall between the Washington Monument and the Capitol sledding. There’s plenty to enjoy all year long. the Atlantic Coast and Chesapeake Bay building. The National Air and Space Museum houses the and tributaries. Inland, green rolling hills largest collection of historic air and spacecraft in the world. BEACHES & BAYS give way to towering mountains filled The Museum of Natural History displays natural treasures, Maryland has thousands of miles of beautiful with sublime parks, winding trails, including the 45-carat Hope Diamond and the skeleton of a waterfront. Along the Chesapeake Bay, experience the waterfalls, off the beaten path Tyrannosaurus Rex. The Museum of American History offers area’s renowned blue crabs and oysters, explore the area attractions and relaxing three floors of American artefacts displaying the diversity of by boat and learn about local history. Along the Atlantic, places to stay. American culture and history. beach towns like Ocean City are filled with people soaking in the sun, swimming and enjoying the seafood. DIVERSE NEIGHBOURHOODS Beyond the Mall lies a city of diverse neighbourhoods. Along the CHARMING SMALL TOWNS tree-lined streets of historic Capitol Hill, you’ll find the stunning Library The state has a vast number of small towns, each of Congress, cafes and the city’s oldest farmers market. In Georgetown, enjoy offering eclectic neighbourhoods with unique dining, waterfront parks and great shopping. Along the U Street corridor, you’ll find hip shopping, sports to play and watch, and attractions for bars and clubs, lively restaurants and trendy boutiques. all ages. Virginia Beach

46 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 47 USA - Capital Region Capital Region - USA The Capital Region shaped a nation and changed Historic Monticello the course of world history. Experience the past and Sites & Cities HISTORY & present of this fascinating destination, from iconic Since 1801, all U.S. presidents have resided in Washington, DC at 1600 monuments and historic battlegrounds to modern Pennsylvania Avenue, also known as the White House. museums and world-class cultural attractions. Another famous white building is nearby: the U.S. Capitol. Since CULTURE 1793, the landmark domed structure has been damaged by fire, rebuilt, expanded and restored. The U.S. Capitol Visitor Centre has almost 600,000 feet of exhibit space. In Virginia, enjoy the 18th and 19th century architecture of charming Old Town Alexandria, just outside of DC. At Jamestown Settlement, explore the circa 1607 settlement and replicas of settlers’ ships. Discover Colonial Williamsburg’s history with re-enactments, historic home tours and museums. Plus, tour the homes and retreats of former U.S. presidents: George Washington’s idyllic Mount Vernon, James Madison’s Montpelier and Thomas Jefferson’s National stately, neo-classical Monticello. Sail through Maryland’s rich history in cities such as Annapolis and Monuments & St. Mary’s City and experiences the area’s maritime roots. In Baltimore, visit Memorials Fort McHenry National Monument to see the historic site that inspired Francis Explore Washington, DC’s most famous monuments along the National Scott Key to write “The Star- Spangled Banner” in 1814. Mall, a park-like promenade in the heart of the city. Admire the towering Washington Monument and get up-close to the massive marble statue of America’s 16th president at the Lincoln Memorial. Neighbouring monuments honour Thomas Jefferson, Franklin Delano Roosevelt and, most recently, Martin Luther King, Jr. The pillars and fountains of the World War II Memorial, the lifelike statues of the Korean War Veterans Memorial and the dramatic Vietnam Veterans Memorial offer moving Civil War Trails tributes. Just across the Potomac River in Arlington, Virginia, the green Retrace the 150 year old paths of soldiers on scenic, rolling hills of Arlington National Cemetery are the final resting historic trails. In Maryland, trails wind through place for more than 330,000 American patriots, including John F. Antietam, Baltimore and the escape route Kennedy. A short drive away in Emmitsburg, Maryland, the National of notorious assassin John Wilkes Booth, Fallen Fire-fighters Memorial salutes fire fighters who died while who shot Abraham Lincoln in 1865. serving. In Sharpsburg, Antietam National Battlefield commemorates More than 400 historic sites dot the most violent one day battle in American history. the Virginia Civil War Trail, with battlefields, museums and interpretive waysides in Cultural nearly every corner of the Treasures Commonwealth. While it honours the past in grand fashion, the Capital Region also celebrates its ever revolving art and culture. Be entertained and inspired in the Washington, DC metro area, where the world renowned Smithsonian offers 17 museums; the American Art Museum, Natural History Museum and National Air and Space Museum are popular stops. Other unique museums include the intriguing International Spy Museum and Newseum. For concerts and live theatre, visit the historic National Theatre or the John F. Kennedy Centre for the Performing Arts. In Maryland, explore downtown Baltimore’s Inner Harbour, a cultural hotspot known for street performances and historic attractions. Board the Civil War era ship USS Constellation, and learn about baseball legends and lore at the Babe Ruth Museum. Nearby, the American Visionary Art Museum and Walters Art Museum offer thought provoking art for all ages. Virginia’s notable art attractions include the ultra-modern Taubman Museum of Art in Roanoke and the glass collection of the Chrysler Museum of Art in Norfolk. In Richmond, visit the Virginia State Capitol, designed by Thomas Jefferson, and the Museum of the Confederacy.

Walters Art Museum Antietam Civil War Battlefield

48 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 49 10127135-3_420mmX297mm.indd 1 world Alliance, LLC. © 2013 American Airlines, Inc. All rights reserved. 2013 British Airways Plc. 2013BritishAirways oneworld isamarkofthe oneworld Alliance,LLC. reserved. ©2013AmericanAirlines,Inc. Allrights AmericanAirlines andthe Flight Symbollogoare ofAmericanAirlines,Inc. marks Your ticket to the Americas. the Wherever in the Americas you wish to explore, Book now Travelbag with at travelbag.co.uk. Discover new places and let your adventure begin. together we can help our with partners, get you there.

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JOB #: 10127135 10127135-3 • AA International Duped from Emyln by: byn TITLE: GLOBAL SCOPE/GENERIC (SUNSET) WITH JB LOCKUP Path: Production3:AAInternational:Jobs:BillableJobs:1012000Jobs: PRINT PRODUCER: NORITA JONES Trim: 420mm w x 297mm h Bleed: 426mm x 303mmLive: 400w x 277h PROJECT MANAGER: WENDY STUDENT Page 1 of 1 Date: 7/2/13 Proof #6 ACCOUNT MANAGER: MATHEWS/SANTINI Inks: 4/C Revised by: byn CPS CheckOut: ______ART DIRECTOR: SHIP: 7/2/13 Agency Approvals: INITIALS DATE Supervisors: INITIALS DATE PUBLICATION & INSERTION DATE: Proofreader ______Project Mgr. ______Travelbag, Escape Magazine, July 2013 Copywriter ______Acct. Sup. ______Reduced Proof @ 80% Art Director ______Prod. Mgr. ______Creative Director ______Client Approval: INITIALS DATE Account Exec. ______USA - Capital Region Capital Region - USA From Atlantic Coast beaches and the Chesapeake Zoos, Aquariums Bay, to scenic national parks and the Blue Ridge & Theme Parks Mountains, the Capital Region offers abundant BEACHES, At The National Zoo in Washington, DC, encounter pandas, cheetahs, opportunities for exploration and adventure in all lions, tigers and gorillas. The Virginia Zoo features over 350 animals, and four seasons. Maryland’s Salisbury Zoological Park ranks among the country’s best PARKS & small zoos. To see thousands of stunning sea creatures, visit The National Aquarium in Baltimore. Other family-friendly attractions include Virginia’s Luray Caverns, one OUTDOOR of America’s most popular caves, and Natural Bridge, a natural wonder with hiking trails on-site. In Maryland, hike or bike along the C&O Canal National Historical Park’s waterside trail. Its Paw Paw Tunnel cuts through ACTIVITIES 3,118 feet of rock. For theme park thrills, ride roller coasters at Six Flags America in Parks Maryland or head to Virginia for the fast paced rides and attractions of Busch Gardens and Kings Dominion. Cool off at the outdoor Water & Gardens Country USA or indoor Great Wolf Lodge Water Park, both in Virginia. Virginia is for nature lovers: The state has 35 state parks, 60 natural areas, one national park, miles of the Blue Ridge Parkway and several regional parks. At Shenandoah National Park, explore 516 miles of mountainous hiking, biking and riding trails, plus go fishing, camping and backcountry backpacking. Take a ride along more than 200 miles of the Blue Ridge Parkway for spectacular mountain views. On the Atlantic Coast, Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is ideal for beach walks, fishing, biking and boating. Its home to thousands of migrating birds in fall and spring. In Maryland, choose from 45 state parks and several national and regional parks. See bald eagles and shore birds on the land and water trails of Backwater National Wildlife Refuge. For a mountain getaway, Rocky Gap State Park offers a lakeside swimming beach plus hiking, fishing, canoeing and camping. Deep Creek Lake State Park has a lakeside beach and trails plus cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter. Discover natural escapes right in Washington, DC, where the U.S. Botanic Garden cultivates thousands of plants from around the world and the U.S. National Arboretum features a dozen blooming gardens. Find paved trails at Rock Creek Park, the area’s largest forested urban park.

Appalachian Mountains Tours &

Chesapeake Bay Trails Outdoor tours and trails abound. In Washington, DC, take a Potomac River sightseeing cruise or evening monument tour. Or, rent a canoe or kayak at the Georgetown waterfront, or Beaches & Bays a paddleboat in the Tidal Basin. Recreation, relaxation and delicious seafood define the In Virginia, hike, bike or horse ride Chesapeake Bay. Its smooth, blue waters stretch 200 miles from along the scenic Virginia Creeper southern Virginia to northern Maryland, past sandy beaches, quaint Trail. In Maryland, hike or bike along fishing villages and diverse natural preserves. the North Central Railroad Trail, a Along Maryland’s Chesapeake shoreline, Sandy Point State Park is the former railway. closest beach to Washington, DC and a popular spot for fishing, crabbing, boating and sailing. Along the Twin Beaches (Chesapeake Beach/North Beach), try kayaking, kite-surfing and more. On the Atlantic coast, visit the pristine beaches of Assateague Island National Seashore to hike dune trails and catch a glimpse of the island’s wild ponies. In Virginia, explore 112 miles of Atlantic coastline and more than 3,000 miles of tidal shoreline. One of the best swimming spots along the lower Chesapeake Bay is Ocean View Beach Park in Norfolk. To spot birds and wildlife, visit Kiptopeke State Park, where you can also swim in the bay, boat, fish, hike or camp. On the Atlantic coast, lively Virginia Beach is an American classic. Stroll the three mile boardwalk and enjoy 35 miles of beaches, plus parasailing, fishing and kayaking with dolphins. Blue Ridge Parkway

52 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 53 USA - Capital Region Capital Region - USA The region’s culinary scene offers seemingly endless The Capital Region’s national stores and unique options – traditional to modern, ethnic to down- boutiques offer everything from designer clothing DINING & home American, casual to upscale – in a variety and accessories to original art and unforgettable of delicious combinations. The nightlife is equally SHOPPING gifts. Find the top shopping spots here. NIGHTLIFE tempting. Local Washington, DC Flavour The region is known for seafood, and especially blue crab. Spreading Tours & newspapers across the table and Food Trucks cracking open hot, steaming Washington, DC’s street food scene is booming. Food trucks Chesapeake crabs coated in Old Bay are in demand, and Twitter is the best way to track them. seasoning is an area ritual. Favourite Line up for Red Hook Lobster Pound (@lobstertruckdc), Annapolis, which serves lobster, and shrimp on buttery buns, and Fojol local crab shacks include Mike’s Bar Bros (@fojolbros), known for chicken masala and curry & Crab House, Canton Dockside, Maryland dishes. For tacos, try District Taco (@districttaco). For Costas Inn, the Quarterdeck and Wander the cobblestone streets to healthy global foods, track down Sauca (@EatSauca). Do The Dancing Crab. Perhaps the most discover clothing boutiques, gourmet dessert with Sweetflow Mobile (@sweetflowmobile), which notable is Jimmy Cantler’s, just outside markets and jewellery stores. Be sure to serves organic frozen yoghurt with fruit toppings. Food tours of Annapolis. Settle into a waterfront check out Brown Eyed Girl Surf Shop, blending culture and cuisine are also increasingly popular. table, grab a mallet and start cracking. Diva Boutique, VIVO, Lilac Bijoux In Washington, DC and Alexandria, DC Metro Food For contemporary , and the Pink Crab. Tours mixes neighbourhood walking tours with food stops. Bourbon Steak in Georgetown blends In Virginia and Maryland, check out the Virginia Beach Boardwalk Food Tour and Charm City Food Tours, both the best of traditional steakhouses Richmond, organised by Coastal Food Tours. with modern elegance. Playful dishes Nightlife dot the menu, but the main attraction While the region has a good variety Virginia remains the steak slow-poached in of nightlife, the DC area’s cocktail Carytown draws fashionistas with more than a hundred Diverse Dining butter. In Alexandria, cosy Vermilion lounge scene has been especially locally owned shops and boutiques showcasing vintage The Capital Region’s international flavours make for a builds its menu around locally energetic in recent years. The clothing, antiques, art and stylish accessories. There’s also true gastronomic journey. In Washington, DC, Radica dishes grown meats and produce whenever speakeasy PX in Alexandria, Virginia designer shopping “on the Avenues” at Libbie and Grove up traditional Indian food with experimental twists. Try the possible. Other standouts are Tallula led the charge with its unique blending The Arts avenues. popular palace chat, a fried spinach and yoghurt dish. For in Arlington, Virginia; Trummer’s on of retro cocktails and modern new District, DC Spanish tapas done to perfection, head for one of the metro Main in Clifton, Virginia; and Volt in concoctions. Other hotspots include The area around U Street, Shaw and area’s famous Julio restaurant. For upscale pan Asian fare, Frederick, Maryland. The Columbia Room, Cork and PS 7’s Logan Circle features eclectic, locally Georgetown, DC try the wok fired sea bass or lacquered Chinese duckling at for creative cocktails, and ChurchKey owned shops and boutiques with trendy Stroll the busy sidewalks of Georgetown and find national The Source. and Old Ebbitt Grill for beer. clothes, shoes, accessories and more. retailers like banana republic, Cusp and Ralph Lauren In Arlington, Virginia, Bangkok 54 serves in Wineries The fashion-savvy shouldn’t miss Lettie mixed with trendy boutiques. BlueMercury carries upscale stylish surroundings. In Ellicott City, Maryland, Tersiguel’s President Thomas Jefferson was a Gooch, known for colourful handbags, cosmetics lines while Sassanova stocks trendy shoes and French Country restaurant offers intimate fine dining in wine connoisseur – he imported wine bold jewellery and feminine clothing. accessories. a 19th-century home. For a supremely urban experience, from Europe and grew wine grapes Many of the nearby art museums have dine at DC’s Sushi Taro (it sources fish from Tokyo’s famed at his home, Monticello. His legacy free admission, so visit their gift shops Tsukiji market), the eclectic restaurant Proof or the New remains, with extensive wine trails for art-inspired souvenirs. Alexandria, Virginia American-style Tabard Inn. For big city dining in Baltimore, and notable vineyards in the region. The Torpedo Factory Art Centre, a former munitions factory turned studio enjoy authentic Italian at Cinghiale or a fusion of French In Virginia, sip and savour at Linden space, features arty gifts and souvenirs. Buy original work direct from artists, from and Southern cuisine at Charleston. In Richmond, find Vineyards, Piedmont, Barboursville, Tyson’s oil paintings and photography to sculpture and jewellery. chic Parisian style at the Can Brassiere and New American Williamsburg Winery and Naked Corner, cuisine at luxurious Lemaitre, a modern restaurant in the Mountain Winery. In Maryland, start historic Jefferson Hotel. For dessert, Secco Wine Bar and For with St. Michaels Winery, Little Ashby Virginia Friendship Heights the Love of Chocolate won’t disappoint. Vineyards and Tilmon’s Island Winery. Tyson’s Corner Centre, one of Chevy Chase, Maryland America’s largest malls, is a major Easily accessible on the DC Metro Chevy Chase. Fill your “big brown shopping hub with more than 300 Red Line, the high end shopper bag” at Bloomingdale’s and stop by stores from Lululemon Athletica to will indulge in Jimmy Choo, Louis Whole Foods Market for lunch at the Madewell to Bloomingdale’s. Across Vuitton, Tiffany & Co. and other Shops at Wisconsin Place. the street, Tysons Galleria plays up luxury brands at The Collection at luxury with stores like Chanel, Versace and Stuart Weitzman. The Shops at Travelbag offers 8 nights at the 5* Renaissance Hotel Washington DC from Fairfax Square offers lavish choices £899pp twin share including return international flights from London with Delta Airlines. like Hermes, Louis Vuitton and Solomons Island Tiffany & Co. Call 0844 846 8992 for details or visit your local Travelbag shop.

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All prices include return international flights with Delta Airline. For travel Oct-Dec 2013 California - USA Seeing Stars

Searching for Brangelina? Aiming to see movie-making in action? in Here’s where toCalifornia find it all in the Golden State. For more than a century, California has been the world’s entertainment hotspot, ever since legendary director Cecil B. DeMille shot Hollywood’s first major motion picture in 1913. Studios soon followed, establishing headquarters here, with filmmakers travelling state-wide to take advantage of California’s diverse landscapes – perfect for everything from cowboys and Indians to classic thrillers. Now, a century later, the romance and glamour of Tinsel Town is as much a part of Southern California’s allure as its fabled beaches.

Get inside the studios. It’s surprisingly easy to get a glimpse of L.A.’s thriving movie and TV industry. Major Hollywood studios are open to the public for tours, the biggest and splashiest being Universal Go on location. Less than an hour’s drive from Studios Hollywood, part theme park, part back lot. Hollywood is Malibu Creek State Park, once home to The studio’s special VIP Experience is a must for a movie ranch that served as an international location: 1movie and TV buffs, with exclusive visits to prop rooms Korea in the movie and TV series MASH, Wales in and sets. 1941’s How Green Was My Valley, and even outer Nearby, Warner Studios offers a Deluxe Tour space in the original Planet of the Apes. In the nearby with lunch in the studio commissary – a great place to 4Santa Monica Mountains, Paramount Ranch swung open spot stars. Paramount Pictures hosts two tours, including a its barn doors to movie making in 1927. Today, you can visit four-hour option ideal for serious film fans that covers 100 Western sets used for the long-running series, Dr. Quinn, years of movie making. Tours at Sony Pictures in Culver Medicine Woman, starring Jane Seymour. City explore the legendary MGM lot, where films like The Follow in their footsteps. Want to get really Movie makers have turned to locations far from L.A., too. Wizard of Oz and Spider-Man were filmed. close to the stars? It’s easy in Hollywood. Start along Director Billy Wilder used the elegant Hotel del Coronado Hollywood Boulevard, where the sidewalk is inset with near San Diego for the Marilyn Monroe classic, 1959’s Hang out in movie-making ‘hoods. While people terrazzo and brass stars honouring legends of film, Some Like it Hot (look for memorabilia in the handsome use “Hollywood” as shorthand for the movie industry, TV, music, and theatre along the Hollywood Walk lobby). Santa Barbara County has been a favourite too, Northern California is also home to a thriving film of Fame®. Grauman’s Chinese Theatre beckons with with locations chosen for films including The Graduate, community, especially for digital filmmaking. Pixar its3 fabled cement forecourt, where you can bend down and Seabiscuit, and Sideways. Animation Studios, located in the San Francisco Bay touch the hand and footprints of everyone from John Wayne Heading north, discover the land that Alfred Hitchcock Area city of Emeryville and cofounded by the late to Johnny Depp. Be sure to see how tiny Marilyn Monroe’s loved to shoot. The iconic director filmed scenes for 1958’s 2Steve Jobs, is the wellspring of such digital masterpieces as hands were – and poke your pinky into the imprint left by Vertigo at San Francisco’s Mission Dolores and Fort Point Toy Story, Monsters, Inc., and Finding Nemo. her stiletto heels. beneath the Golden Gate Bridge. He also travelled north to Star Wars director George Lucas has long-been based Next to Grauman’s, a different close-up awaits at the fishing village of Bodega Bay in Sonoma County for the in the area, and his Letterman Digital Arts Centre is a Madame Tussauds Hollywood, where you can pose next to creepy setting of 1963’s The Birds (some scenes were shot at buzzing hub of the city’s Presidio, a former military base. incredibly realistic wax figures of stars like Jennifer Aniston still-popular The Tides Wharf Restaurant). Also just north Neither of these movie-making meccas is open to the public, and Julia Roberts. Nearby, you’ll find the Kodak Theatre, of San Francisco, spooky scenes from the 2011 version of though nearby eateries often attract people in the industry. home to the annual Academy Awards show. Planet of the Apes were shot in Eavesdrop on conversations at Rudy’s Can’t Fail Cafe in For a rolling tour of the region – including movie-star Marin County’ Muir Woods National Monument. For an Emeryville or at the Presidio Supper Club in San Francisco hangouts and homes – take a guided trip with Star Line overview of local film locations, consider the three-hour San and you might overhear details of a movie in the making. Tours. Francisco Movie Tour.

58 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 59 USA - California Grauman’s Chinese Theatre

Attend film and TV events. Another great way Go where stars go. From red-hot A-list mega-stars The Palm Beaches – The Best Way To Experience Florida to up your odds of seeing celebs is hanging out along to one-hit wonders, the chances of spotting celebs goes Discover The Palm Beaches, an exciting collection of luxury resorts, boutique and trusted- red carpets heading into film festivals, award shows, way up in the place where they work, live, and play: and tapings. January’s Palm Springs International Los Angeles. The ritzy shops lining ultra-luxe Rodeo brand hotels, an innovative culinary landscape, trendy shops and boutiques of world-wide Film Festival features screenings of Oscar contenders, Drive in Beverly Hills attract stars with money to burn; fame, and a nightlife that thrives year-round. With 15 distinct dining and entertainment with stars like Charlize Theron and Anne Hathaway visit midweek unless you want to see more gawkers districts, 47 miles of pristine beaches, and a staggering collection of attractions and 5blowing kisses to the crowd. The celebrated Santa Barbara 6than celebs. With trendy The Ivy Restaurant and edgy cultural venues, it is no surprise the destination ranks among the world’s best. International Film Festival shows world and U.S. premieres; boutiques, nearby Robertson Boulevard is another hotspot. past honourees have included Annette Bening and Angelina And celebs all need their java: The Coffee Bean & Tea Jolie. Leaf at Sunset Boulevard and Holloway Drive is a fabled Every March in Beverly Hills, Paley Centre for Media haunt. conducts PaleyFest, a series of screenings and panels with Stars also love the beach – after all, they can afford casts of such TV shows as Glee, Mad Men, and The Office. the houses. Intimate Malibu Country Mart is like a Other Paley Centre events have included star appearances neighbourhood shopping centre for the gilded set. In sun- (think Jeff Bridges) and show previews. splashed Santa Monica, stars adore such oceanfront hotels Television shows of all kinds invite live audiences to as Shutters on the Beach and Casa del Mar. Peruse filmings; peak season is August through March. Seating Avenue’s cafes and boutiques, too – fun even if you’re not on is limited but tickets are free, and tapings let you see the star prowl. Florida’s Golf Capital Family Friendly Spas & Wellness Beach, Waterway, Thriving Culinary Hollywood in action and favourite stars behind the scenes. Another tip: head to Staples Centre when basketball’s L.A. Marine Landscape For sources, check websites for specific shows, including Lakers are in town. Scan the crowds (bring binoculars—why Ellen and Jimmy Kimmel Live. not?) for stars, including courtside regulars Jack Nicholson Visitors at all skill levels can play With more than 100 family-friendly A wealth of luxurious spas With more than 47 miles of A well-balanced fusion of celebrity Another inside tip: During awards shows, producers loath and Leonardo DiCaprio. on the more than 160 public and attractions, families of all sizes and recognised internationally for their Atlantic coastline and countless chefs, cutting-edge newcomers on any budget can enjoy a variety rejuvenating treatments abound in waterways, there is no shortage of empty seats on camera. So, when stars leave their seats to private golf courses, including the and classic masters give The Palm of active, educational and Palm Beach. From mineral pools liquid assets to enjoy in The Palm present or perform – or if they’re just plain late – “seat Boca Raton Resort & Club, The Beaches a true advantage among Travelbag offers 5 nights at the 4* Millennium Biltmore from £799pp twin Breakers Palm Beach, and PGA cultural experiences. and Dead Sea salts to exclusive Beaches. From fishing, diving and travellers seeking the ultimate fillers” slip into and out of the stars’ seats on cue. And guess product lines and lavish treatments. snorkelling to sailing, boating share including return international flights from London with National Resort & Spa. palatable experience. what? They’re plain folks just like us. If you’re in town and yachting. Air New Zealand. during the Screen Actors Guild or other awards show, give it Call 0844 846 8992 for details or visit your local Travelbag shop. a shot by getting on lists at seatfillers.com. For more information or book visit travelbag.co.uk or call 0844 8846 8992 Visit your local Travelbag shop: London, Alton, Brighton, Cheltenham, Knutsford, Solihull & Winchester 60 Escape ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE Grand Canyon Grand Canyon To The Edge & Beyond Discover Las Vegas & Departures daily: 6-8 hours Enjoy a scenic drive through the sage brush and wheat grass valleys on your narrated round trip tour by luxury coach or mini bus. You will see many sights including the Hoover Dam on your way to the Grand Canyon Ranch The Grand Canyon Resort. From the ranch, you will depart from the private helipad where all of your senses will be heightened with spectacular views and choreographed music as you descend into the largest theatre in the world, the Grand Canyon. As you fly further and deeper into the heart of the canyon, you will fly over withThe entertainment capital of the worldHeli promises excitement for allUSA who visit, the Colorado River, past mile-high canyon walls and towering stone spires. with amazing hotels, star-studded shows and non-stop gambling in the world’s View spectacular rock formations such as Eagle Rock. You will be shown the largest casinos. You can win a fortune at the roll of a dice, and then spend the lot canyons hidden secrets such as the site where mutineers on General Wesley in boutique shopping malls, nightclubs or in the bewildering array of places to Powell’s expedition were killed by Indians. A rodeo demonstration and light eat. Las Vegas is also a major gateway to southwest America’s finest national parks western-style lunch, complete with authentic country & western musicians are including the Grand Canyon. part of your experience. Note: Taxes and fees of $30 per person are payable The best way to see the Grand Canyon and Vegas’ famous five mile Strip locally. containing 19 of the world’s 25 biggest hotels is by air. Heli USA offer the most comprehensive and entertaining trips on the ‘Strip’ and onwards to the ‘Canyon’. Prices from £167 per adult, £105 per child You can combine any of the Heli USA tours with a stay in Las Vegas. Grand Canyon Grand Canyon Explorer Departures daily: 4.5 hours Eight unforgettable experiences in one day including an extensive flight below the rim and landing. Departing from Las Vegas, experience a spectacular helicopter flight below the rim of the Grand Canyon as you fly past towering columns and buttresses for a thrilling landing and 90-minute stay at the exclusive Grand Canyon Ranch Resort. Take a horse-drawn wagon trail to the ranch house, where a western-style meal with soft drinks is served (beer and wine available for purchase). As you dine, listen to the cowboys as they share with you their myths, legends and song, and afterwards perhaps take a horseback ride (payable locally) or just enjoy the ranch activities. Your return helicopter flight includes views of the Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, Iceburg Canyon, the Valley of Fire and the Bowl of Fire plus a cruise along the Las Vegas Strip - the perfect end to a great adventure. Hotel transfers included. Note: Taxes and fees of $60 per person are payable locally.

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Grand Canyon Chariot of Fire Helicopter Flight Departures daily: 3.5 hours This is an extensive flight below the rim of the Grand Canyon! Departing from Las Vegas, this Chariot of Fire helicopter flight flies further and deeper into the Grand Canyon - the most dramatic helicopter tour below the rim of the Grand Canyon. Imagine how a golden eagle must feel as you descend into the depths of the Grand Canyon and soar over the Colorado River on this 90-minute flight. Fly below the rim and pass through colourful canyon walls that have stood tall for over 550 million years. After leaving the Grand Canyon, other natural wonders unfold including panoramic views of Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, Iceberg Canyon, the Valley of Fire and the Bowl of Fire. As you return to Las Vegas, you’ll cruise down the dazzling Strip before you land and are transferred back to your hotel.

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62 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 63 ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Grand Canyon Overnight Escape with Sunrise Helicopter Departures Daily Teepee Stay 15Mar-15Nov Cabin Stay year-round Travel by road from Las Vegas across the Hoover Dam to the historic Grand Las Vegas Apollo Canyon Ranch Resort for an overnight stay in your choice of authentic teepee Night Strip Helicopter (Mar-Nov only) or pine cabin. Both come with double beds, a heater or fire, Departures Nightly, commencing at dusk: 15 minutes a private bathroom in the cabins and a personal carry lantern in the teepees. This Las Vegas Apollo Night Strip Helicopter Flight is the ultimate Las Vegas and Treasure Island. Pass the massive Stratosphere Tower, The ranch is built next to Diamond Bar Springs where evidence of Native Las Vegas Strip tour! Sip champagne before boarding your helicopter rising 1,149 feet into the air, Glitter Gulch and the Fremont Street American existence dates back to 1600BC. Enjoy optional horseback riding for an exciting flight over the glittering lights of the Las Vegas Strip. Experience as you cruise into downtown Vegas. On your return you (payable locally), plus a western-style meal with cowboy-style entertainment As you rise above the City of Lights, get a bird’s eye perspective of will pass the laser beam of the Luxor Pyramid, allegedly visible from round the campfire (beer and wine available for purchase). After breakfast, this spectacular skyline. Cruise past famous landmarks such as New ten miles up in space, before your return landing at the Heli USA Air board your jet helicopter for a spectacular flight below the rim of the Grand York-New York, Bellagio, Paris, The Venetian, Caesars Palace, Wynn Terminal. Note: All taxes and fees are now included. Canyon. Admire views of the Hoover Dam and the Las Vegas Strip on the way back to the Heli USA Air Terminal, where the tour concludes with a return Prices from £50 per adult (child prices on request) hotel transfer. Note: Taxes and fees of $50 per person are payable locally.

Teepee - Prices from £370 per adult, £340per child Travelbag offers 3 nights at the 4* Luxor Hotel & Casino from £649pp twin Cabin - Prices from £399 per adult, share including return international flights from London with £369 per child British Airways. Call 0844 846 8992 for details or visit your local Travelbag shop. Hoover Dam

64 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 65 Abu Dhabi With a plethora of natural islands, more than 400 kilometres of pristine coastline, Your Guide to tranquil oases, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, modern cityscapes, rocky, mountain- like heights, and awe-inspiring deserts, Abu Abu Dhabi Dhabi offers a diversity of visitor experiences. Welcome to Abu Dhabi, where beautiful You can tour former palaces, forts, one of desert landscapes and traditional Arabian the world’s largest mosques, desert camps culture come together to create a memorable and experience falconry, camel trekking and holiday experience like no other. Arabia’s famed hospitality.

Getting Here Facts & Essential Info More airlines than ever are now flying to award-winning Local time The UAE is four hours ahead of GMT. Abu Dhabi International Airport - one of the most customer-friendly airports around. Climate This is a destination with almost year round Cheap taxis, a well-planned road system, and plenty of sunshine, little rainfall and near perfect winter temperatures. sidewalks make Abu Dhabi easy to navigate. You may opt to Abu Dhabi has a sub-tropical, arid climate. Sunny blue rent a car. People often rely on landmarks to give directions. skies and high temperatures can be expected most of the A new interactive map initiative, www.darb.ae, provides year. Rainfall is sporadic, falling mainly in winter (November useful information on travel and transport in the emirate. to March) and averaging 12 cms per year in most of the emirate. Rain is more common in the ‘Oasis City’ of Al Ain, the emirate’s second largest city, due to its proximity to the Saadiyat Island Hajar mountains. Temperatures range from a low of around 13C (50F) Yas Island on a winter’s night, to a high of around 42C (118F) on a summer’s day. The cooler months, November to April, are the most pleasant time to visit, when temperatures are around 24C (75F) during the day and 13C (56F) at night.

Food & Cuisine Abu Dhabi has numerous dining options and visitors are often bewildered by the sheer volume and diversity of choice across the emirate. Cuisine from around Abu Dhabi the world mingles in Abu Dhabi with restaurants offering a vibrant and varied mix of international flavours and Dubai impressive culinary standards.

Abu Dhabi Hotel outlets serve alcohol and these are complemented by many superb unlicensed outlets across the emirate. Non- United Arab Muslims can consume pork in certain restaurants – any Emirates Oman Saudi dishes using pork ingredients will be prepared separately Arabia from non-pork dishes and are clearly marked on the menu.

66 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 67 Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi Saadiyat Island Just seven minutes from downtown Sir Bani Yas Island As one of the largest natural islands Islands Abu Dhabi and 20 minutes from Abu Dhabi International in the emirate, Sir Bani Yas Island is the core component Abu Dhabi is home to a plethora of islands, some of which are accessible to visitors and offer variety from entertainment Airport, the 27 square kilometre Saadiyat Island is of the planned Desert Islands multi-experiential destination to culture and luxury, from untouched beaches and wildlife sanctuaries to championship-standard golf facilities. undergoing remarkable transformation into a world class 240 kilometres off Abu Dhabi. leisure, residential, business and cultural hub of global One of Arabia’s largest wildlife reserves the Arabian Yas Island An emerging entertainment destination within The newly-opened Yas Waterworld spans an area of proportions. These will include the Zayed National Wildlife Park, which is home to more than 10,000 free a 30 minute drive of the UAE capital, Yas Island is home around 15 football pitches, with 43 rides, slides & attractions Museum, Louvre Abu Dhabi and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi - roaming animals, takes up more than half of the island. to the state-of-the-art Yas Marina Circuit – host to the – five of which are one-of-a-kind. Visitors to this futuristic all designed by Pritzker prize winners. There are many Arabian Oryx, gazelles and giraffes, along annual F1™ Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Get water park can try the 238-metre long, world’s first, and The island’s purpose built visitor centre - Manarat with the newest arrivals, hyenas and cheetahs. to grips with Yas Marina Circuit through a series of track largest hydromagnetic-powered, six-person tornado Al Saadiyat (which translates from Arabic as ‘a place of Visitors can now get up close and personal, at eye-level, day packages, including ‘Driver Experiences’, ‘Passenger waterslide. For adrenaline seekers there are three-metre enlightenment’), brings the Saadiyat’s vision to life. Two with the island’s giraffes from a purpose-built viewing Experiences’, ‘Private Driving Tuition’ programmes and high waves on Bubble’s Barrel, which has the world’s galleries are open to the public: ‘The Saadiyat Story’, on platform made completely from recycled materials. ‘Racing License Courses’. largest surfable sheet wave for flowboards and bodyboards. permanent display, gives visitors an interactive narrative on New ‘Cruises and Sails’ itineraries offer several packages At the circuit’s centrepiece is Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi, a The Bandit Bomber, a 550–metre coaster, is the first with the history and cultural vision behind the island, and the on the Arabian Gulf, while the world’s first two zero- five star, iconic hotel – the only one in the world to straddle onboard water and laser effects. Riders can shoot jets of ‘Arts Abu Dhabi Gallery’, hosts a series of exhibitions and emission buses are now shepherding guests around the an F1 race track being breathtakingly built half on land water at targets, drop water bombs and trigger special educational programmes. island’s beautiful landscapes and abundant wildlife hotspots. and half over water. Attracting Super Yachts from as far effects, while people below can spray them with water as Saadiyat Beach Golf Club is the region’s first ocean Guests at the boutique Desert Islands Resort & Spa by away as Australia for the annual F1™ Etihad Airways Abu they pass. A true full day experience, the park draws on Abu course; the Gary Player-designed masterpiece respectfully Anantara can take 4x4 Nature & Wildlife Drives of the park Dhabi Grand Prix and, the Yas Marina and Yacht Club are Dhabi’s heritage and has ‘The Lost Pearl’ as its theme. It harnesses the natural beauty of Saadiyat Island’s in specially made vehicles accompanied by expert island central to Abu Dhabi’s ambitions of becoming a strong rival also features a souk, pearl-diving exhibits and restaurants. magnificent, white sand beaches for a truly unique playing staff. to traditional yachting grounds such as the Mediterranean On the west shores of Yas Island, Yas Links Abu Dhabi experience. and Caribbean. Overlooking the stunning Yas Marina F1™ – an award-winning golf course, designed by Kyle Phillips, With two five star properties already opened - The St. Delma Island Inhabited for over 7,000 years and once Circuit, Cipriani features signature dishes from Harry’s Bar one of the world’s leading golf course architects - is in line Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi and Park Hyatt one of the Gulf ’s most important pearl diving centres, in Venice and classic Italian favourites. with the traditional links golf commonly associated with Abu Dhabi - and more in the pipeline, the island’s leisure Delma Island continues to maintain strong links to its It’s fast and furious fun for all ages at Ferrari World Abu the coastal towns of Scotland and Ireland. Voted among and hospitality offering is rapidly increasing. With its maritime heritage. Dhabi - the world’s first Ferrari theme park and the largest the ‘Top 10 New International Golf Courses’ by Golf own unique style, the exclusive Monte Carlo Beach Club, One of the oldest known permanent settlements in the attraction of its kind. The park tells the Ferrari story with Magazine, Yas Links features a 7,450 yard par 72 course, Saadiyat celebrates the elegance of its renowned sister on UAE, the island boasts some of the region’s earliest evidence passion and excitement through more than 20 exhilarating utilising five teeing grounds per hole, with all 18 benefiting the Riviera. Leisure services include an outdoor swimming of date palm cultivation along with Mesopotamian pottery and educational rides and attractions, interactive shopping from ocean views. Recently Yas Links has also been named pool, a workout room with fitness and wellness programmes, and finely flaked stone tools. With a good supply of fresh and authentic Italian dining experiences. one of the world’s top 25 by Golf Digest. spa facilities, sauna and steam rooms, kids’ pool and playing water, the island is surprisingly fertile, with many farms and areas, and private cabanas and loungers set on the stunning, plantations growing a wide variety of produce. white beach. Delma Island can be visited by from Jebel Dhanna.

68 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 69 Abu Dhabi Al Jahili Fort Culture & Heritage THE WORLD IS OUR HOME Abu Dhabi’s culture is firmly rooted in Arabia’s Islamic traditions, creating a shining example of Islam’s true com- YOU ARE OUR GUEST mitment to tolerance and hospitality. The combination of international influences and a strong commitment to local heritage has created an intriguing mix of new and old.

Al Ain Palace Museum The former home of the late UAE founder, Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Palace was once a political and social hub. Built in 1910, the building became a museum in 1998. Now creatively restored, the museum houses a large col- lection of material about the ruling family. Visitors can tour the private rooms and gardens once occupied by the ‘Father of the Nation’.

Al Jahili Fort The picturesque Al Jahili Fort is one of the UAE’s most historic buildings. It was erected in 1891 to defend the city and protect precious palm groves. An Al Ain landmark, the fort has been carefully restored and now houses a permanent exhibition of the work of British adventurer Sir Wilfred Thesiger (whom the locals affectionately refer to as ‘Mubarak Bin London’) and his 1940s crossings of the Rub Al Khali (The Empty Quarter) desert.

Miraj Islamic Centre This centre features museum-like displays of unique Islamic art pieces sourced from around the Muslim world from places like Egypt, Syria, Iran, India Iraq, Kashmir and Russia. Displays include meticulously hand woven pictorial and bejewelled carpets, silk textiles, jewellery, marble pieces, Arabic calligraphy engraved vases, miniature paintings and experienced staff are on hand to brief visitors on the history and origin of the pieces and the techniques used in making them.

Al Ain National Museum On the edge of Al Ain Oasis, this museum showcases the city’s unique heritage and history. It is housed in the same compound as the Sultan Bin Zayed Fort (also known as the Eastern Fort), which was built in 1910 and is very well preserved. Divided into three main sections - archaeology, ethnogra- phy and gifts - its presentations illustrate various aspects of UAE life and include an interesting collection of Bedouin jewellery, musical instruments, weapons, and a reconstruc- tion of a traditional majlis. The archaeology displays are extensive, and include many artefacts from the nearby Hili Gardens so it is helpful to visit the museum before the gardens. Some of the displays, such as the one from Garn Bint Saud (12 kilometres north of Hili), date back to the first mil- lennium BC. The gifts section houses an unusual collection of gifts that Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan received during his lifetime. It includes golden swords, silver daggers Camilla Arvor is a welcome guest on EY16 every two months. Ask and a golden palm tree. Displays are labelled in English and her why and she’ll enthuse about the miraculous effects of the Arabic. complimentary cold-stone eye revive treatment, offered at the Six Senses Spa in our lounges at London Heathrow and Abu Dhabi. At Etihad, we’re inspired by the best the world has to offer, and treat everyone as our guest. UK to Abu Dhabi, fi ve times a day. Please contact your local Travelbag Store or visit www.travelbag.co.uk To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 71

Job No: 211527 Client: Etihad Campaign: Brand Relaunch 2013 Proof No: 01 Publication: Travel Bag Mag UK Insertion Date: 01/07/2013 Approver: Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi Iconic Landmarks Yas Viceroy UAE Pavillion Moved piece by piece from Shanghai, where it welcomed almost two million visitors to the UAE’s national exhibition during the World Expo 2010, this striking dune-shaped structure, designed by London’s acclaimed Foster + Partners, stands close to Manarat al Saadiyat exhibition centre, adding to the Saadiyat island’s cultural attractions. A landmark exhibition and events venue, the pavilion is hosting some of the country’s most important cultural functions. A coming together of prominent global collectors, Emirates Palace connoisseurs and artists, the pavilion annually hosts the Abu Dhabi Art contemporary art fair.

Emirates Palace A real iconic Abu Dhabi landmark, this luxurious hotel blends Arabian splendour with the latest technology to create a magical and memorable experience. During daytime, the hotel’s golden-sandy colour contrasts with its fresh green gardens, silvery water fountains and the blue sky. At night, the hotel’s lighting changes subtly, featuring a majestic rainbow-changing effect over the main dome. The main Palace building stretches over a kilometre from wing to wing, and its gardens and surroundings spread across 100 hectares. The hotel features 114 domes, with the central dome at an imposing 72.6 metres above ground. Gold, mother of pearl and crystals dominate the interior. The Palace has 1,002 chandeliers, the largest weighing 2.5 tonnes. Another memorable Palace feature is its two hand- made wall display carpets, portraying the Palace itself and each weighing a tonne.

Yas Viceroy A true architectural triumph, this five star iconic hotel is the only one in the world to straddle an F1 race track being breathtakingly built half on land and half over water. The hotel’s main feature is its unique ‘grid shell’ - a 219 metre expanse of sweeping curvilinear glass and steel cover- ing that drapes over the two hotel towers, linked by a bridge that crosses the F1 circuit. The ‘grid shell’ features a lighting system incorporating video feeds that are transmitted over 5,096 diamond shaped, colour changing glass panels. The optical effect is stunning, reflecting thousands of coloured lights against the surrounding sky, sea and desert landscape.

Capital Gate Drive down Khaleej Al Arabi Street and you will see a modern day challenger to the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Capital Gate, developed by Abu Dhabi National Exhibi- tions Company, has been certified as the ‘World’s Fur- thest Leaning Man Made Tower,’ by the Guinness World Records. It leans 18 degrees westwards - more than four times that of Pisa’s famous Leaning Tower. The 160 metre (524.9 ft), 35 storey tower is a postcard image of Abu Dhabi and makes a great holiday snap. Hyatt Capital Gate Abu Dhabi, a premium 5-star business hotel, is in the iconic building.

72 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 73 Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi Behind the scenes at Yas Marina Circuit Take a tour Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque This architectural work Attractions behind the scenes of one of the world’s most technologically of art is one the world’s largest mosques, with a capacity for A true destination of distinction, the emirate is developing at a significant rate while keeping a watchful eye on its advanced motorsports circuits. The Yas Venue Tour is a an astonishing 41,000 worshippers. It features 82 domes, intriguing past. Whether you are visiting the capital, the eastern city of Al Ain or the western region of Al Gharbia, you will must-do for those who want to see firsthand how much effort over 1,000 columns, 24 carat gold gilded chandeliers and the discover a genuine leisure haven, with attractions for every taste. So whether you want to experience the speed of the world’s goes into running this large, multifaceted facility. world’s largest hand knotted carpet. The main prayer hall fastest roller-coaster at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi – the world’s largest indoor theme park; spend an afternoon at the majestic is dominated by one of the world’s largest chandeliers –10 Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, while learning about Abu Dhabi’s culture and religion; experience Arabia with a trip to the Arabian Wildlife Park On Sir Bani Yas Island, the metres in diameter, 15 metres in height and weighing twelve enticing Oasis City of Al Ain – the emirate’s heritage heartland; or marvel at the peaceful Liwa desert, the entrance to the Arabian Wildlife Park is home to more than 10,000 free tonnes. The mosque’s first ceremony was the funeral of its famed Empty Quarter, the world’s largest uninterrupted sand mass with some of the tallest sand dunes on earth – the options roaming animals and takes up more than half of the island. namesake, Sheikh Zayed, who is buried at the site. are as diverse as the terrain. Visitors can now get up close and personal, at eye-level, Reflective pools surround the mosque, amplifying its with the island’s giraffes from a purpose-built viewing beauty. The striking white and gold colours shining in the Ferrari World Abu Dhabi Yas Waterworld Yas Waterworld visitors can try the platform made completely from recycled materials. sun are transformed at night by a unique lightning system It’s fast and furious fun for all ages at Ferrari World Abu 238-metre long, world’s first, and largest hydromagnetic- Guests at the boutique Desert Islands Resort & Spa by which reflects the phases of the moon. Dhabi - the world’s first Ferrari theme park and the largest powered, six-person tornado waterslide. For adrenaline Anantara can take 4x4 Nature & Wildlife Drives of the park Visitors’ Tip: Why not finish sight-seeing or shopping attraction of its kind. The park tells the Ferrari story with seekers there are three-metre high waves on Bubble’s in specially made vehicles accompanied by expert staff. for the day and take the 5pm ‘Sunset Tour’? Get to the passion and excitement through more than 20 exhilarating Barrel, which has the world’s largest surfable sheet wave Alternatively, guests of the Danat Resort Jebel Dhanna mosque around 4:30pm – a wonderful time to take photos and educational rides and attractions, interactive shopping for flowboards and bodyboards. The Bandit Bomber, a can book a three hour tour. There are many Arabian Oryx, – to wind down and chill out for 20 minutes in the lovely, and authentic Italian dining experiences. 550–metre coaster, is the first with onboard water and laser gazelles and giraffes, along with hyenas and cheetahs. afternoon breeze before the tour. Beneath its huge, iconic red roof, attractions include: effects. Riders can shoot jets of water at targets, drop water Opening hours: Unlike other mosques in Abu Dhabi, Formula Rossa, the world’s fastest roller coaster, reaching bombs and trigger special effects, while people below can Abu Dhabi Corniche The Corniche Road spreads across the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is open daily to visitors, speeds of 240 kmph; Galleria Ferrari, the world’s largest spray them with water as they pass. an impressive eight kilometres of manicured waterfront that except on Friday morning, which is for worshippers only. Ferrari gallery outside Maranello with an interactive display Sitting atop Jebel Dana, the towering core of the park’s includes children’s play areas, separate cycle and pedestrian Complimentary one hour guided tours run (Sun-Thurs) at of cars from 1947 through to the present; Speed of Magic, altitude-defying summit and measuring eight metres in pathways, cafés and restaurants, and the Corniche Beach - a 10am, 11am and 4.30 / 5pm. Friday times are 5pm and a fantastic 4-D adventure through deep green jungles, icy diameter, the park’s gigantic pearl is Yas Island’s newest lifeguarded beach park. 7.30 / 8pm and Saturday 10am, 11am, 2pm, 4.30 / 5pm caves and ravines and to the mouth of a fiery volcano. landmark. The park draws on Abu Dhabi’s heritage and has Abu Dhabi’s pristine Corniche beachfront has been and 7.30 / 8pm. Those wanting to start their Ferrari World Abu Dhabi ‘The Lost Pearl’ as its theme. Visitors follow the story of a awarded coveted Blue Flag status - the internationally The times for the last two tours of the day vary between experience in top gear will get their adrenaline fix at G-Force young Emirati girl on a quest to find a legendary pearl as renowned eco-label for beaches and marinas that guarantees 4.30 and 5pm, and 7.30 and 8pm, depending on the time of blasting through the red roof, before dropping from a hair- they make their way around the attractions, which include a clean and safe bathing water. the time of the year. raising height of 62 metres. souk and pearl-diving exhibits. Ramadan opening hours: During the Holy Month the mosque is open daily except Friday from 9am to 12pm (midday), and the one-hour complimentary tours start at 10am and 11am.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Ferrari World Yas Waterworld

74 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 75 Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi City Golf Club Tee off at the city’s first Etihad Golf Club Play 24/7 on 360 holes all over the Golf nine-hole golf course with the skyline as your backdrop, or world with the virtual Etihad Golf Club, a great way for golf lengthen your day by teeing off at twilight under the city’s aficionados to connect with the game online and on course. Fabulous courses carved out of the desert and along spectacular coastlines make up a golf offering that’s now challenging night sky. Whether to escape the summer heat, cap off a day Your game will take off on some of the world’s leading some of the world’s best. Pay-and-play courses welcome guests to truly memorable golfing experiences and some of the finest of business meetings or sightseeing, the club gives golfers a courses with Etihad Golf Links, and with professional club house hospitality around. unique view of Abu Dhabi city. training at The Etihad Golf Academy. Newly re-laid greens, double-tiered driving range, a brand Join in competitions with the Etihad Golf Series and get Yas Links Abu Dhabi Set among rolling hills and Al Ain Equestrian Shooting & Golf Club In the new fleet of GPS-equipped golf cars and affordable green great discounts and special offers on golf equipment at the mangrove plantations, this is the Middle East’s only links shadow of the dramatic Jebel Hafeet heights, is an 18- fees make the course - only a 10 minutes drive from Abu Etihad Golf Shop. On www.etihad-golf.com virtually play course. It sits majestically on the western shores of Yas hole grass course and nine-hole academy which have a Dhabi National Exhibition Centre - a unique urban golf the world’s finest courses, from the natural links of Scotland Island, Abu Dhabi’s entertainment destination, with every picturesque and tranquil setting. The resort caters for golfers experience. With golf professionals available for specialist to verdant parkland courses in Ireland, Australia and South hole having sparkling coastline views. both novice and advanced. Certified PGA professionals coaching, ‘The People’s Golf Course’ is open to members Africa. Join Etihad Golf Club today. This 18-hole, championship-ready, par 72 course spans provide a variety of instruction programmes and packages and visitors. 7,450 yards and is complemented by a luxurious clubhouse, as well as private day-time lessons and evening sessions on Sdiyat Beach Golf Club The region’s first ocean course floodlit practice ranges and a nine-hole, par 3 academy the floodlit driving range. Arabian Gulf Designed to strict environmental guidelines boasting several beachfront holes, this Gary Player-designed course. Distinguished by private boat mooring and a fine The elegant clubhouse features an impressive terrace and with sensitivity to the natural environment, this 18-hole, masterpiece harnesses the natural beauty of Saadiyat Island. dining restaurant with a private lawn for events and croquet, restaurant with fabulous course and mountain views. It also championship-ready course has created an aquatic habitat, The course meanders along the coastline providing stunning Yas Links Abu Dhabi is well served by seven nearby hotels has a state-of-the-art golf simulator where you can compete introduced salt-water lagoons and restored beach and sand sea views and the chance to spot dolphins and turtles at play including the iconic Yas Hotel – the only one in the world against friends on the world’s top courses or perfect your dunes. This 317 acre, par 72 beach course boasts three lakes in the glistening. straddling a Formula 1™ race track. Yas Island is a 15 swing under the watchful eye of a club professional. A and 60 bunkers. Designed for all types of players, the course minute drive from Abu Dhabi International Airport and 20 well-equipped pro shop offers the latest in golfing attire and starts at 5,290 yards and extends to 7,784 yards for a more Al Ghazal Golf Club Experience a challenge few minutes from downtown Abu Dhabi. accessories. challenging environment for the world’s leading tour players. destinations can offer at this championship, 18-hole, par The club is 20 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport 71 ‘sand’ course. The club also has a 30 bay driving range, and 15 minutes from downtown Abu Dhabi. state-of-the-art teaching academy, event facilities and a licensed clubhouse. Just minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport, the club is renowned for its friendly ambience and plays host to top European Tour professional players in the World Sand Golf Championship.

Abu Dhabi Golf Club This is really where it all began. The vast winged span of a falcon perched on a golf ball is the architectural wonder which is home to award-winning Abu Dhabi Golf Club. Here you’ll find 27 holes – including 18 championship holes – that weave through breathtaking terrain and seven saltwater lakes. Host to the annual European Tour-backed Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship and managed by Troon Golf, the par 72, 7,334-yard championship course throws up a tough but fair challenge, with lush fairways, 90 challenging bunkers and generous greens. The 3,299 yard, par 36 nine holes are more forgiving. The club was recently named among the world’s top 100 courses by Golf World. For those wanting a golf day of a life-time, watch out for the club’s ‘Royal Experience’, operated in partnership with the opulent Emirates Palace hotel. This comes complete with Maybach or helicopter transfers, Rolls Royce golf carts, an exclusive lounge and fine dining. The club is 10 minutes drive from Abu Dhabi International Airport and 20 minutes from most downtown or beachfront hotels.

76 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 77 Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi Adventure, Shopping & Sport

Explore the waters From wake-boarding and jet skiing Shopping Shopping is something of a national pastime in to surfing and parasailing, from cruising in a traditional Abu Dhabi, perhaps because it’s so diverse: everything from pearling boat to kayaking through natural mangrove forests, ultra-modern malls with the latest brands, to small, souk-like from relaxing on-board Abu Dhabi’s largest luxury sailing outlets where you can buy traditional perfumes, handicrafts, catamarans to zooming to the pace of a speedboat tour spices and carpets. of Abu Dhabi’s coastline, the emirate’s waters are yours to You can spend thousands of pounds on a bejewelled discover. designer watch, or pick up a basic timepiece in a supermarket. You can splash out on an ‘haute-couture’ Desert safari & dune bashing The vast expanse of designer outfit, or buy fabric and have a local tailor make desert that lies outside the Liwa oasis in the Western Region up your very own creation for a bargain price. You can buy is perfect for adrenaline fuelled off-road driving. With 300 a treasured Arabian antique, or a technology busting super metre dunes and long sand valley, you’ll never get bored of modern home entertainment system. desert driving. Rent a four wheel drive from Abu Dhabi, Prices are often excellent in comparison to those abroad, get a good map and explore to your heart’s content – but especially for carpets, textiles and gold. If you are a good never go out alone, always make sure there is more than one bargainer, you can get even better deals. vehicle. Most shops open from around 10am to 10pm, and later on weekends. Although most malls work straight through, Ride the track at Yas Marina Circuit If you are a some independent shops close for an extended lunch break, motorsport fan, booking a track experience is a unique usually from 1pm to 4pm. Hours usually change during opportunity. Yas Racing offers a variety of options to suit Ramadan, with many shops closing for the afternoon and all tastes. A series of track day packages are available, reopening from 7pm until midnight or even later. including ‘Driver Experiences’, ‘Passenger Experiences’, ‘Private Driving Tuition’ programmes and ‘Racing License Courses’.

Horse Riding From indoor to outdoor training areas, from the fully floodlit polo field to world class stable facilities, from special beach rides to a variety of horseback riding activities and lessons, Abu Dhabi’s equestrian offerings are each tailored to meet the individuals abilities.

Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort

78 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 79 Abu Dhabi 2013 Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand PrixTM The 2013 Formula 1™ Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (November 1-3, Yas Marina Circuit) features an expanded entertainment programme and a greater number of ticket categories that start at AED 365 (US $100) per person. Among the new categories are family ticket packages, a Friday Brunch Ticket, an Abu Dhabi Hill General Admis- sion Ticket, as well as exclusive options including the Yas Trackside Terrace and the Yas Marina Tower. Visitors and residents can also buy a Yas Pass, which extends the fun of the F1™ weekend to include access to neighbouring Yas Waterworld and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. Support races confirmed for the race weekend include the GP2 and GP3 Series, as well as the Porsche Supercup. In addition to the thrilling motorsport action on-track, Abu Dhabi Grand Prix ticket holders enjoy exclusive ac- cess to an inclusive and interactive entertainment pro- gramme in the Oasis areas behind the Yas Marina Circuit grandstands. Also exclusive to ticket holders are the Yasalam After- Race concerts held at du Arena. The Yasalam festival runs for a month before the race weekend, and features free concerts, film nights and community events taking place across Abu Dhabi.

Travelbag offers 3 nights at the 4* Radisson Blue Ras Island from £539pp twin share including return international flights from London with Etihad.

Travelbag offers 3 nights at the 5* Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara from £599pp twin share including return international flights from London with Etihad.

Travelbag offers 3 nights at the 5* St Regis Saadiyat Island from £679pp twin share including return international flights from London with Etihad.

Travelbag offers 3 nights at the 5* Emirates Palace from £896pp twin share including return international flights from London with Etihad and free half-board.

Call 0844 846 8992 for details or visit your local Travelbag shop.

80 Escape 84-87 There’s Nothing Like AUSTRALIA Australia Covering a total area of 7.69 million square kilometres, Australia is the world’s largest island. In distance, the continent stretches about 3,700 kilometres from north to south and 4,000 kilometres from east to west, making it the world’s 88 - 91 sixth-largest nation. Its ocean territory is also the third-largest in the world, Victoria spanning three oceans and covering around 12 million square kilometres. Melbourne & beyond 96 -101 Queensland A barmy summer on the Queensland coast

104 -106 The Legendary Pacific Coast

110 -115 Western Australia Into the Blue & Gower’s Perth

120 -123 Tasmania This island was made for walking

124 -127 South Australia A genuine Australian experience

128 -133 Northern Territory Revelling in Australia’s Red Centre

82 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 83 There’s Nothing Like Australia - AUSTRALIA THERE’S NOTHING LIKE AUSTRALIA Looking for an Escape? Whether you are looking for an excuse to flee the daily grind, your heavy workload or just the everyday, let Travebag Sporting inspire you with a trip Down Under. A destination with so many unique experiences, there really is nothing like Australia. Spectaculars 2013 is a big year for sport Down Under. The British & Irish Lions Tour to Australia has just taken place, with fans from across the UK and Ireland getting involved in one of rugby’s biggest events. Those of you who watched the games at home on TV wishing you were down there enjoying the excitement of the games, the beaches, restaurants, wineries and the camaraderie of such an epic tour, have another 12 years to wait until the Lions tour Australia again. However, if you also love your cricket it’s not too late to time your trip to coincide with the Ashes Tour, taking place from November 2013 until January 2014. If you’re lucky enough to have access to match tickets, speak to Travelbag about booking flights, accommodation and tours between the tests to ensure you get the most out of your Ashes adventure. Australia really knows how to throw a party and the events hosted down there are world-class. Timing your holiday in Oz with one of the many sporting fixtures, food festivals or arts extravaganzas will give you a great insight in to Australian culture. Tourism Australia’s online events calendar at www.australia.com is really comprehensive but we’ve picked out a few of our favourites for the next six months below:

14 July-Lasseters Camel Cup in Alice Springs Discover the outback at this incredible carnival in Australia’s Red Centre 16-24 August-Hamilton Island Race Week Enjoy Australia’s largest annual offshore keelboat regatta on the edge of the Great Barrier Reef September-Floriade in Canberra See millions of fragrant spring blooms as the nation’s capital comes alive with floral colour October-Opera in the Vineyards Pick either the Hunter Valley near Sydney, or the Yarra Valley near Melbourne for an incredible celebration of Giacomo Puccini 22-25 November-Margaret River Gourmet Escape Have some culinary adventures against the stunning backdrop of Western Australia’s beautiful Margaret River at this fantastic foodie festival 31 December-New Year’s Eve Party hard in one of Australia’s iconic cities, seeing in the new year in style

84 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 85 AUSTRALIA - There’s Nothing Like Australia There’s Nothing Like Australia - AUSTRALIA Nuts About Nature Follow Your Nose Top tips for discovering Australia’s weird and wonderful wildlife Food and wine are a serious passion for Australians who have learnt the techniques, then bent the traditional rules to create impressive wines, beers and a cuisine of all their own.

Saddle Up Paddle with Platypus Kangaroos & Koalas T our WA’s Margaret River region in style. Starting Explore the spectacular Blue Take a dawn or dusk canoe tour To see lots of kangaroos and from either Injidup Spa Retreat or Smith’s Beach Mountains High Country on in the Great Otway National koalas living in their natural Resort in Yallingup, you’ll be picked up in a horseback, through gorgeous Park, accessible from Melbourne, habitat head to Kangaroo Island, luxurious ivory Silver Shadow Rolls-Royce for a short bushland, pine forests and clear to discover Australia’s most just a 30 minute flight from tour. Awaiting you will be a gourmet picnic lunch. creeks. elusive animal – this rare chance Adelaide. The island is also home Then retreat to your villa and watch the sun set to see them in the wild is not to to sea lions, fur seals, echidnas, with a bottle of Pol Roger Champagne or order in- Indulge in a city sights stroll for the ‘epicurious’ in be missed. goannas and wallabies. villa dining with a private chef. Melbourne, the Victorian capital. Taking in classic restaurants, and the latest ‘buzzy’ venues, the Sommelier’s City Walk is a unique and interesting way to see and experience what’s happening in Melbourne’s wine and food scene. Small groups stroll and visit three restaurants tasting nine wines matched with nine generous menu ‘tastes’ in an intimate setting with the city’s top sommeliers.

Dive Under Swim with whale sharks Retreat to The Louise, an idyllic vineyard retreat Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is on a lot of people’s Swimming with whale sharks, the friendly giants in the heart of shiraz country with breathtaking bucket list and for a good reason. This World of the oceans, at the gorgeous Ningaloo Reef in views, 15 luxury suites and a highly acclaimed on- Heritage Listed masterpiece is so big it can be seen Western Australia is an experience that will stay site restaurant, Appellation. One of Australia’s top from outer space. Don a snorkel, scuba tank or book with you forever. They don’t come much more regional dining experiences, it is the perfect haven for a place on a glass bottom boat to immerse yourself unforgettable than this. food and wine connoisseurs, surrounded by hundreds in this watery paradise. of acres of vineyards in the Barossa Valley.

Experience ‘Wineglass to Wine Glass’. Walk from Freycinet Lodge to Wineglass Lookout then down to the white-sanded shores of Wineglass Bay where a banquet awaits. Indulge in Tasmania’s finest food and wine near the turquoise waters of the Freycinet Peninsula on Tasmania’s pristine east coast. You will An animal in need Btirdwa ch in NT Penguin Parade Dine under a sparkling Outback sky when you be served local produce and cool-climate wines, Make the journey to Bonorong See huge numbers of wetland and Just a 90 minute drive from experience the Sounds of Silence dinner. With the including the freshest seafoods, salads, Tasmanian Wildlife Sanctuary in Tasmania. grassland bird life in Australia’s Melbourne, Phillip Island is setting of the sun behind Kata Tjuta and Uluru beef, quail and Tasmanian cheeses. Established in 1981 as a stunning Top End. Fly in to Darwin home to a colony of super cute in the distance, guests dine under the canopy of sanctuary for injured and and join a tour out to Kakadu penguins. Watch them waddle the desert night, with your very own storyteller Travelbag offers a 2 week Britz campervan rental including return orphaned wildlife, this place is National Park and the Mary River up the beach at sunset as a sharing tales as told in the stars. As the sun sets, you international flights from £1,059pp. well worth a visit. wetlands to see rare species in ranger answers all your penguin feast on a buffet of authentic Australian delicacies Call 0844 846 8992 for details or visit your local Travelbag shop. flight. questions! including barramundi, emu and crocodile.

86 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 87 Victoria - AUSTRALIA Melbourne & Melbourne city 2 nights Every Australian adventure should start in the nation’s culture capital – the city of Melbourne. And with two nights in this funky, surprising city, you are sure to be busy. Melbourne has a love of the covert, hiding away its best bars, art galleries, acclaimed restaurants, and designer boutiques to reward those who dare to delve. Beyond Venture into the city’s laneways and you will discover what makes Melbourne tick, in seven nights a sophisticated coffee culture, a sub culture of street art and a passion for food. Head down into city basements for music and performances that will leave you thinking and ride the city’s elevators to find rooftop bars with incredible views. If you’re not adverse to heights, a trip up the Eureka Tower to the Skydeck on the 88th floor will allow you to survey Melbourne and out onto Bay. Melbourne also stows some of its highlights just beyond the city limits in the buzzing inner suburbs such as Fitzroy and St Kilda. Hire a bike and head to Fitzroy, Melbourne’s hippest inner suburb. Wander down bohemian Brunswick Street to browse boutiques, and pop into Rose Street Artists Market for locally crafted souvenirs. Rooftop Bar, Melbourne If the ocean is calling, jump on a tram and chase the sun to cosmopolitan St Kilda, the beachside playground that attracts artists and musicians. Join locals exercising along the palm-lined foreshore or set sail on Port Phillip Bay. With only two nights in Melbourne, you will be spoilt for choice on where to dine in this foodie haven. But a night on the Colonial Tramcar Restaurant will not only allow you to see this diverse city as you float around town, but also taste some of its top cuisine.

Federation Square, Melbourne

Halls Gap 1 night Daylesford After two days of city culture, it’s sunset from the hilltop pool offering The time to hit the road and the first stop stunning 360 degree views over the Grampians is just an hour out of town – the peninsula. Before bed, embark on a Mornington Peninsula. With golden lantern-lit tour of Moonlit Sanctuary Melbourne beaches surrounded by a green Wildlife Conservation Park. See owls, hinterland strung with vineyards, it’s endangered gliders, quolls, bettongs Port hard to know where to begin. For a and even wallabies frolic in the night. Montalto Vineyard & Olive Grove Phillip Bay morning never to forget, jump onto a boat and head out onto Port Phillip Bay for a swim with the dolphins and seals. Port Anglesea You’ll find it hard to believe how close Fairy Bay of Great Ocean these inquisitive creatures will come Islands Road Lorne Mornington Port Peninsula as you snorkel along the surface of the Campbell Otway Apollo pristine waters. Heading ashore it’s National Bay time to explore the hinterland. Visit one Park of the 170 vineyards hidden amongst lose your eyes. Take a deep breath. While the sight you are about to see will stay with you the hills, as well as craft breweries, forever, it’s the fresh, sea-salty smell that will bring your mind back here in an instant. Listen. cheese factories and berry farms. C Hear the wild ocean waves crash and recede, crash and recede. Now open your eyes, there A must visit is Montalto Olive they stand in front of you. Melbourne’s incredible 12 Apostles, grandly erupting out of the Southern Grove and Vineyard, with an Ocean, a breath-taking sight to behold. The famous limestone rock stacks, which brave the brunt of the exquisite pinot noir, award-winning wild sea at their feet, have become an iconic image of Melbourne and one for every traveller to see. restaurant and sculptures dotted However, they are not the only the thing that makes Melbourne the place to visit. The thing that across the grounds of vines and puts the marvellous before Melbourne is its diversity. Spend a morning sampling the wines and glorious wetlands. Before bed there are still views of the Yarra Valley and that night sit on the beach of Phillip Island at dusk as hundreds of little a few more gems to experience. penguins waddle past and into their burrows. In fact the only problem with Melbourne is that there Head to the Peninsula Hot Springs is too much to see. So what would you do if you had just seven nights in Melbourne? The options are to relax and rejuvenate in the 20 endless but one thing is certain, a road trip journey is must. So strap yourself in and let’s go for a drive. plus bathing pools. Watch the Port Phillip Bay, Mornington Peninsula

88 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 89 AUSTRALIA - Victoria Victoria - AUSTRALIA Wildlife wonders Daylesford 1 night Where to meet Melbourne’s Before you make your way back to Melbourne, treat yourself to a visit to Daylesford and the surrounding spa country. For food and pampering, it’s nothing animals but heavenly. Linger over a long lunch at the renowned Lake House, where local culinary hero Alla Wolf-Tasker’s sensational seasonal menu and views across Lake Daylesford make for an unforgettable meal. Enrich the last day of your trip with a short detour to nearby Hepburn Springs, named for its naturally occurring mineral springs. Taste the different mineral waters from old-fashioned pumps in the Hepburn Springs Mineral Springs Reserve, or soak it up – literally – with a pampering spa at Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa. Fully rejuvenated, make the short drive back to Melbourne. This short week will give you a taste of what the city has 12 Apostles, Great Ocean Road to offer and it’s time to start planning your next Melbourne journey.

The Great Ocean Road 2 nights Koalas: Spot sleepy koalas perched in eucalyptus trees It’s time to depart the Mornington Peninsula for the Great Ocean Road and at Kennett River on the Great Ocean Road, get up close why not do it in style with Searoad Ferries, an easy 40 minute cruise across Port at Healesville Sanctuary in the Yarra Valley and visit Phillip Bay to Queenscliff. Discover why the Great Ocean Road is renowned as Koala Conservation Centre on Phillip Island one the world’s best coastal drives. First stop is Anglesea, take a detour to the golf course, famous for the kangaroos lounging under the trees surrounding the greens. Magnificent coastal views will dominate the next 30 kilometres as you drive to beach town Lorne, the perfect spot for lunch – fish and chips on the beach is a must. Another 20 minutes winding along the coastal road will bring you to Kennett River and its most famous locals - koalas. Take some birdseed for their flighty friends then follow the ‘koala walk’ with your camera ready. As you make your way to Apollo Bay, you’ll travel up along cliff-tops offering incredible views and alongside wild beaches – take time to stop at the lookouts for Lake Daylesford photos, or beachside for a stroll. Rest your head overnight at Apollo Bay or escape it all at the Great Ocean Ecolodge, a conservation centre nestled 25 kilometres away in the Otway National Park, for an extraordinary encounter with Australian Kangaroos: Play a round of golf with the local Five reasons to visit wildlife. kangaroos that populate the Anglesea Golf Course on Melbourne From Apollo Bay, follow the Great Ocean Road into the lush rainforest of the the Great Ocean Road, or watch these amazing creatures Otway National Park and turn off to the Otway Fly Treetop Walk, reach for the in the wild at the Grampians, Tower Hill or Wilsons 1 Compact sky along the treetop canopy walkway – the longest and tallest of its type in the Promontory Melbourne is a small destination packed with attractions world. Back on the Great Ocean Road, get your camera ready for the spectacular making it the perfect road trip destination, from beaches, coastline leading to Port Campbell and its famous 12 Apostles. wine regions to mountain ranges – see it all. Take plenty of time to stop at lookouts over the cliffs of the Loch Ard Gorge and, just beyond Port Campbell, the hauntingly beautiful Bay of Islands. Before 2 Wildlife an overnight stay at Port Fairy, take the turn-off to Tower Hill State Game Melbourne is packed with wildlife - swim with dolphins Reserve, and meet koalas, emus, kangaroos and waterbirds who roam freely and seals on the Mornington Peninsula and fall in love with among the hills and lake-filled craters of this extinct volcano. snoozing koalas on the Great Ocean Road.

Great Ocean Road 3 Beaches From world famous Bells Beach to Phillip Island, Victoria’s sandy beaches are ideal for surfing, swimming, kayaking or The Grampians 1 night Penguins: Visit Phillip Island and see the gasp-inspir- a long wander. Just an hour from Port Fairy and you’ll be greeted by the Grampians. Popular ing Penguin Parade with wildlife watchers, outdoor adventurers and history buffs, the Grampians is 4 Walks a series of rugged sandstone mountain ranges and forests rich with wildlife and The rugged mountains of the Grampians are renowned for its hiking – but also discover the hidden gems in the home to significant Aboriginal rock art sites. The stunning twin peaks of mounts rainforest along the Great Ocean Road. Sturgeon and Abrupt provide a glorious backdrop for the town of Dunkeld, and inspiration for much of the art in local galleries. Taste Just a 45-minute drive away is the town of Halls Gap, an excellent base for 5 Melbourne is the food capital of Australia - from the fine exploring the ranges and home to boutique accommodation. If you’re the wines of the Mornington Peninsula and loud markets and outdoorsy type you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to activities: hiking, buzzing cafes in Melbourne city – enjoy every bite. canoeing, rock-climbing and abseiling, fishing and more. Whatever your activity of choice, keep your camera poised for wildlife – the national park is home to a profusion of native animals and birds, including kangaroos, koalas, emus Travelbag offers 3nts 3* Travelodge South Bank Melbourne and 5 day and wedge-tailed eagles – and wildflowers. Make time to stop at another of the Dolphins: Swim with bottle nose dolphins in the Great Southern Touring Route self drive from £1,129pp including return Grampians’ star attractions: MacKenzie Falls, one of Victoria’s largest and most pristine waters of Port Phillip Bay, you will also meet international flights. spectacular waterfalls. friendly seals Call 0844 846 8992 for details or visit your local Travelbag shop. The Grampians

90 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 91 advertisement FEATURE advertisement FEATURE IS FOR… Hutton IS FOR… Longhaul Aged 22 and with the endless In 1989, as the Australian squad possibilities of a full run-soaked travelled from Sydney to London, life ahead of him, Hutton decided with a stop-over in Singapore, David TO Hto spend a lot of his time – 847 balls worth – LBoon put away 52 cans of beer, smashing making 364 at The Oval to break the record the record previous of 46 set by Rod Marsh. A OF THE for the highest Test score, set by The Don While Marsh was carried out of the plane eight years before. When he passed Bradman’s upon arrival at Heathrow, Boon had enough 334, the great man himself was classy enough about him to “saunter” off, unattended, before Z to shake the young upstart’s hand. going on to score 442 runs at an average of 55.25, while nursing a real bad one. IS FOR… Ivo Ivo Bligh, the Eighth Early of Darnley, ASHES captained England Iin their first Ashes victory. From arm balls to zooters with all points in between, A talented sportsmen, he IS FOR… Oldfield (Bert) represented the Gentlemen, Let’s face it, Bodyline wouldn’t All Out Cricket runs you through the alphabet of the Ashes. as England were known back matter so much without the hard then, leading the 1882/83 tour to hitting money shot, and Aussie Australia where he regained the Ashes. It was Ostumper Bert Oldfield provided it by heading IS FOR … Adelaide, Day 5 IS FOR … Centenary IS FOR… Freddie also where he was presented with the urn (see a Larwood bouncer straight to cover-point. It For four days and 43 minutes, all The first officially recognised Test The runs, the wickets, U), which was presented to the MCC by his was a quality finish from the big fella; just a was calm. After the 277-run defeat match began on March 15, 1877 the celebrations, the widow after his death in 1972. shame the respective governments had to get at Brisbane in the previous Test, between Australia and England at consoling of Bret in such a lather over a bit of spilt claret. AEngland were happy to get a foothold in the Cthe MCG, which the hosts won by 45 runs. FLee, that over to Langer and IS FOR… Johnson series here. The gap had closed and they were A hundred years later, the two sides reunited Ponting and, of course, the He bowls to the left, he bowls to the IS FOR… Packer (Kerry) competing; 551 was posted in the first innings, at the MCG on 12 March to do it all again. celebrations – 2005 saw us lap right – that Mitchell Johnson, he’s Late Seventies media tycoon who got Kevin Pietersen with 158 and Paul Collingwood That game also finished in favour of Aus- up Fred at every opportunity. nowhere in sight. And the Ashes are all so fed up with the Australian board’s with a double. Look at us, in the runs, having tralia, by exactly the same margin. Spooky. The Preston colossus owned Jthe poorer for it. strangehold over their cricketers, not to a laugh. Australia replied with 513 – we had a that summer: 402 runs and 24 wickets had Pmention what he saw as the players’ disgracefully lead! Not much of a lead, but a lead nonethe- IS FOR… The Doctor him named Man of the Series. He subse- IS FOR… Kasprowicz small pay packets, that he singlehandedly revolu- less. As we entered the final day on 59-1, we Otherwise known as the Free- quently fronted the whitewashed tour of The final wicket to fall at Edgbas- tionised the game by introducing ‘World Series could even possibly look forward to having the mantle Doctor, or the Freo Doc- 2006/07 but redemption came in 2009 when ton in the 2005 series. Brett Lee Cricket’: essentially a brash, new, deregulated cheek to declare and set a total. And then it tor, it is the cooling afternoon sea he helped himself to a five-fer at Lord’s and, and Shane Warne (see W) looked mash up of gaudy coloured clothes, white balls, happened. Shane Warne happened. From 69-1 Dbreeze which occurs during summer months hobbling in from mid-on in the final Test, ran Klike they might do the unfathomable and IS FOR… Merv brilliant cricketers and pots of private money. to 129 all out, Warne with most of the damage. in the south-west coastal areas of Western out Ponting to set England on their way to get Australia over the line. But when Warne Born Meryvn Gregory Lavish and abrasive – Packer, that is – many a Panic, blind panic, manifested through inertia, Australia. The Perth breeze can often reach successive home glories. bizarrely back-heeled his stumps, Michael Hughes on November 23, superstar was tempted across, vastly depleting England shot-less in the heat. Australia needed speeds of 20 knots, making bowling a slip- Kasprowicz, brought into the team after 1961, Victoria, no one has the Australian national side as well of those of 168 in 36 overs – and they got them with 19 pery affair. However, it also allows bowlers to Glenn McGrath rolled over his ankle on a typifiedM the Aussie spirit more than this mous- other Test nations. The Ashes were still played, balls to spare. What just happened? generate measures of swing in directions they stray cricket ball, came to the crease. With two tachioed giant. After hosting supporters’ tours but with most of Australia’s best players playing weren’t capable of achieving themselves. One runs left to get, Kasprowicz gloved through to the UK – including once locking himself for Packer over the road, it was a contest barely IS FOR … Bilal Shafayat of the many kinks (nuisances) to contend with to Geraint Jones and England sealed a nervy out of his hotel stark naked in 2009 and hav- worthy of the name. Accompanied by a portly physio, that makes playing at the WACA as a visitor win. But while some called the dismissal lucky ing to wander down to reception to ask to be the then Nottinghamshire batsman, such a treat (graveyard). IS FOR… Ghost after it looked like his glove may have been off let in – he turned to high level administration IS FOR… Queen drinks in hand, was subjected to a Staying at the 700 year-old the bat on impact, the Queenslander admitted in 2005 as a selector, before being dumped in When sung in Australia by the Bbarrage of abuse from Ricky Ponting in 2009. IS FOR … Lumley Castle ahead of a that he would be disappointed if it had not 2010. Barmy Army, their interpretation Probably deserved given the scenario – Eng- Elton day-nighter at Chester-le-Street been given were the shoe on the other foot. of their cherished national an- land nine down, with three overs of the first During the Gagainst England, Shane Watson bought IS FOR… Nineteen Qthem takes on an added dimension as a means Test to bat out to avoid defeat. Ponting snarled, 1986/87 into talk of hauntings and ghosts. Local Upon drawing the third Test at of irritation to most Aussies. Such understated Shafayat snarled back, and the Cardiff crowd Eseries, Elton John legend says the castle is haunted by Lily Headingley, with Tony Lock and strokes of genius as this are what earn the stirred to shout down the Australian captain, played a pivotal role Lumley, a 14th century lady of the manor Jim Laker combining to take all English such a fine reputation abroad. before returning to quiet prayer and finger- – not necessarily in who was thrown down a well in the castle Nbut two wickets, the suggestion from the tourists crossing as Anderson and Panesar – refreshed England’s triumphant grounds by two priests after she refused the were that pitches were being prepared to favour IS FOR… Richie Benaud and re-gloved – set about batting for a draw. 2-1 win, but certainly in their Catholic Church. “It was a very spooky sort the home side. They were right to fear pitches Whether donned in cream, white, celebrations. His hotel suite hosted many a of place and it definitely freaked me out,” on offer when at Old Trafford, after two days off-white, beige, biscuit or even victory party in which he provided the music. revealed a rattled Watto. “I went back to my of rain followed by heavy sunshine, a rapidly bone, Benaud’s indomitable twang His song “Rocket Man” was also adopted room and it was a tiny little room and I had dried pitch allowed Laker to finish with match Rand dulcet tones have provided narration of as the team anthem when England won to walk through a dungeon to get there, so I figures of 19 for 90 – an increasingly agitated the highest order for at least a hundred years the Ashes in 2005, 18 years on from Elton’s got spooked out.” In the end, he had to kip on Lock claiming the only other wicket – to secure now. Still as silky smooth and sheened as the bashes and their last triumph. Brett Lee’s floor. England the Ashes and head towards a record first day he welcomed us to the morning, no haul of 46 series wickets. one has made endless conflict sound so sweet.

92 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 93 advertisement FEATURE

THE

NightwatchmanTHE WISDEN CRICKET QUARTERLY

A quarterly collection of original essays and long-form articles, published by Wisden

Co-edited by Osman Samiuddin & Tanya Aldred

IS FOR… Sledging IS FOR … Urn IS FOR … Warne For so long England had been on September 2, 1882. After defeat Eight series, seven wins, 195 the wrong end of the sharp tongue, to Australia, Reginald Brooks of wickets, some calculated Available in print and ebook formats from “Sherminator” to illegitimate The Sporting Times drew up a words, a few big turners and DOWNLOAD A FREE SAMPLE EDITION ONLINE Skids and undeserved royal recognition, for so Umock obituary which read as follows: oneW dropped Ashes. Bowling Shane. long it seemed only fair, as the consequence of England never being in any kind of position to IS FOR… Xavier Doherty dish it out. That was until the 2010/11 series, A debutant in the first Test of the when the visitors this time served up the ‘mental 2010/11 series, the Tasmanian disintegration’, summed up in one beautiful ex- was set to play a big part in the CONTRIBUTORS TO change between Jimmy Anderson and Mitchell Xseries, sure to exploit Kevin Pietersen’s weak- ISSUE 2 INCLUDE: Johnson. “Why you chirping now mate,” began ness against left arm spin. X-Do duly got Marcus Berkmann, MJ, “not getting wickets?” Anderson duly runs his man in the second Test – KP desperately Rahul Bhattacharya, in and yorks Ryan Harris, before turning to trying to hit him out of the attack with a Johnson and pressing his finger to his lip. Some- slog sweep that he could only edge to Simon Lawrence Booth, times, words are not needed. Katich at first slip. Pietersen trudged off Emma John, with just 227 to his name, and Doherty was David Foot, IS FOR … Tiger Moth toasted with two high-fives in celebration of Gideon Haigh, Two down after three Tests on the his figures of 1-158. Neil Manthorp, 1990/01 tour of Australia, Eng- During the 1882/83 series in Australia, a Saad Shafqat, land were playing Queensland at group of Melbourne women handed Eng- IS FOR… Yallop Sharda Ugra, TBrisbane’s Carrara Oval. Despite having also land captain Ivo Bligh with a small urn, the Hamstrung by Packer (see P], Mirza Waheed, recently been humbled by New South Wales, contents of which are said to be the charred the Australia side was a shadow David Gower and John Morris decided it was remains of a bail. The urn now lives in the of its not too former self, Gra- Jonathan Wilson, about time a bit of fun was to be had. With MCC Museum at Lord’s, never to be removed. Yham Yallop – he of eight Tests – found Andy Zaltzman an airport just a few minutes away – allowing himself at the helm of the decimated side a quick return in the event of a collapse – the IS FOR… Volunteers against England in 1978/79. A 5-1 defeat pair waited for a flight on a Tiger Moth from On the verge of a straightforward to Mike Brearley’s men meant Yallop’s Joy-Ride (the name of the company) and win in 1968 to square the rubber epitaph would read as the country’s worst convinced the pilot to indulge with some low on the last day of the series at The ever captain. flying. Normally supposed to stay over 2,000 VOval, the heavens opened to such an extent that feet, the plane buzzed over the Oval at about a half-hour deluge left the ground covered in IS FOR… Zoehrer 200, dipping down just after Robin Smith pools of water. Devoid of a super-sopper, and Western Australia’s Tim Zoehrer completed his hundred. His batting partner, with thousands desperate to see England finish was the perennial understudy to Allan Lamb, pretended to shoot down the the job, a hoard of volunteers armed with mops, Ian Healy. However, despite his plane with his bat. The players were fined brooms and blankets assisted the groundsmen. Zday job behind the stumps and with the £1,000 for the stunt, and Gower, who’d bat- Their herculean efforts allowed 75 more minutes bat, he also managed to finish second in the ted like God up until then on tour, didn’t score of play – just enough time to allow Derek Un- 1993 summer’s first-class bowling averages another bean. derwood to take four wickets in 27 balls, the final behind Shane Warne, taking 12 wickets at wicket coming with just six minutes to spare. 20.83 apiece with his leg breaks. www.thenightwatchman.net

94 Escape

NWM-Issue2-A4-ad.indd 1 05/06/2013 16:35 Queensland - AUSTRALIA

Founded as residents spread across almost 3,000 square miles. The Brisbane a penal colony inner city itself offers plenty of outdoor activities with but emerging inspirational views, from the top of Kangaroo Point Cliffs and its as a trendy and – good for rock climbing and abseiling – to the iconic Story neighbours cultural hotspot, Bridge Climb. Cruise down the Brisbane River on a local A barmy summer on the Brisbane is well ‘City Cat’ (ferry) or even at your own pace in a kayak. (1 - 2 days) regarded as For something a little quieter, grab a coffee from Merlo Australia’s most and explore the native plants and animals while strolling ‘liveable city’. I may be biased, but given its laidback through the Botanic Gardens. Dine alfresco at the cultural vibe and ‘endless’ sunshine and warm weather (certainly hub, The Powerhouse, which also offers farmers’ markets, in comparison to the UK), this statement can’t be too live music, bars and restaurants along the river. far from the truth. There’s a lot to explore here, more If you have a spare day, it’s worth heading further afield, QueenslaND so now than when I was growing up - from cultural following the winding river to the east just outside the city. precincts, boutique stores, trendy cafes to lively bars Here you’ll find Moreton Island – a stunning sand island and nightlife. Even a walk along the river through just off the coast and famous for its Moreton Bay bugs Southbank Parklands – with the markets buzzing on a (Aussie slang for tasty slipper lobster). Day trips are easily weekend, the new restaurants at River Quay for fine arranged to Tangalooma Island Resort and you can find dining, the Brisbane Eye and the Gallery of Modern a picturesque place to swim and snorkel, hire a 4WD or Art (GoMA) – bears an uncanny resemblance to a mini quad bike, or sand toboggan down the dunes. You’ll also London Southbank. Only with more sun. have the chance to meet some new friends when hand- Brisbane’s metropolitan area has just over 2.15 million feeding the dolphins swimming around your legs. coastFive World-Heritage areas, stretches of long white sandy beaches, cute and weird (yet lovable) wildlife, not to mention incredibly warm temperatures – Queensland offers countless reasons to escape a long English winter and delight in the sunshine… Maddie Smith explores Australia’s east coast, a place which she’s lucky enough to call home.

As a state itself, Queensland is almost seven times the size of Great Britain, which is a lot of ground to cover in one holiday, but means you’re spoilt for choice when deciding where to soak up the sun, the sea (the Pacific Ocean if you want to be specific) and the friendly individuals in this country. So, where does one begin to plan a getaway ‘down under’? As a true Queenslander, and one who is about to make the move back from England, there is no better time for a Brit to visit Australia than the end of this year. The hype surrounding the British & Irish Lions tournament from the end of June will no doubt continue when the Barmy Army returns Top tip: Hug a Koala to Aussie soil. From 21st to 25th November, some 42,000 ticket holders will be witnessing the first of For a true Aussie wildlife experience, head to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary – the world’s first five Ashes test series at the ‘Gabba’ (as it’s known by the locals, more formally The Brisbane Cricket and largest koala sanctuary. Even as a local, the chance to cuddle a koala (Wilbur was my Ground) so it makes perfect sense to begin your adventure in Brisbane – Queensland’s capital and my first) or hand feed kangaroos and lorikeets, is a must. Mirimar Cruises allows you access to the home town – and work your way out and up from there. sanctuary, with a return tour down Brisbane River.

96 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 97 AUSTRALIA - Queensland Queensland - AUSTRALIA 75 Mile Beach, Fraser Island Brisbane the green & has often been dubbed gold coast the gateway (3 - 4 days) to south-east Queensland, stretching across the vineyards and to and it’s no wonder – just over an hour’s drive both north the the coastline. and south of the city you can find yourself standing on Back on the coast choose from gold sand beaches with the ocean splashing against your sunshine 60 miles of beachfront, including ankles. coast& the resort towns of Coolum and About 42 miles south, is the forever youthful Gold Noosa (family favourites) and stroll Coast – dubbed Australia’s playground and host to the Fraser along Hastings Street in Noosa and 2018 Commonwealth Games. Pick a beach along the Alexandra Parade in Mooloolaba for 40 miles of coastline such as Broadbeach, Main Beach island stylish stores and seafood restaurants or Surfers Paradise down to the tip of Currumbin, all just inches from the sand. offering ideal conditions to learn to surf with a range of (3 - 4 days) If you’re feeling lucky, head 125 surf schools from beginners to advanced. This also offers To the other side of Brisbane, miles further north to Hervey Bay, an excuse to meet an authentic Aussie surf instructor, about 70 miles north, enter the a small town on Fraser Coast. From one that’s just as lovely as the beach views. After being Sunshine Coast. Having spent every here it’s an hour’s ferry ride to Fraser covered head to toe with sand and seawater, indulge in family holiday here from age three Island – World-Heritage listed as the some fresh seafood in one of the restaurants or cafés. to seventeen, I have many fond largest sand island in the world. The Something less pricey are the local Surf Life Saving memories here. The drive is just as Aboriginal people who lived there Clubs (SLSC) scattered along the coast. These overlook beautiful as the destination itself, and called the island “K’Gari”, roughly the surf and serve extremely generously sized meals. The a stop at Australia Zoo is essential translating to ‘paradise’, making beer battered barramundi and chips and schooner (not to discover the Crocodile Hunter’s this the perfect place for natural quite a pint) are reminiscent of an English pub, but with passion. If you’re taking the winding adventures. A Beauty Spots tour a view and Aussie accents. roads inland through the Glass makes its way over tree roots and Only 90 minutes from the Gold Coast the sand turns House Mountains, take the route via banks of sand in a 4x4 bus to Lake green. This is the Hinterland, an equally beautiful Montville and Maleny to find cute Mackenzie and along 75 Mile beach. region where the landscape falls into an area known as streets full of antique shops, cafes, Look out for wild dingoes, sugar the Scenic Rim – home to the third oldest national park quirky characters and stunning views. gliders, swamp wallabies, and small in the world in the World-Heritage listed Gondwana If time permits, a taste of the region’s eared mountain possums and listen to Rainforest. This group of forested mountains forms wine from Flame Hill Vineyard or Kookaburras as they converse in the part of the Great Dividing Range. The views here are similar will not disappoint along trees. A flight in a tiny tin can plane breathtaking – silencing at times, providing a peaceful with the guinea fowl – located shows the dense green rainforest, place for reflection. Here you will find lush rainforests in a remodelled Queenslander surrounded by white sand and crystal formed of continuous mountains, 2,000 year old trees, (Queensland house) with views blue water, home to an abundance of hidden waterfalls and serene lookouts. Amongst the 100,000 hectares of rainforest, discover the communities of Springbrook and Lamington National Park, which offer a mixture of bushwalking and hiking trails, waterfalls and over 2,200 species of native Top tip: Meet some gentle giants plants and animals. Nature enthusiasts gather here to spot Every year an estimated 13,000 humpback whales migrate from Antarctica to the warm waters of the a rare variety of birdlife from Albert’s Lyrebird, Rosellas Whitsundays to breed. In November you’ll have a chance to catch sight of them making their return to and Bowerbirds, and even glow worms – bioluminescent the south when they bring their calves. These beautiful mammals are just as curious about us as we are organisms, which shine all year round. The plateaus about them and the trick to entice them out of the water is to make rather loud noises. and cliffs of these National Parks are the remnants of the 23-million-year-old Tweed Volcano, now centered around Mount Warning. Perched along the edge of the Noosa Heads Scenic Rim is Mount Tamborine, now a thriving region offering locally grown produce of avocados, kiwifruits Top tIP: SPOT and macadamia nuts, cheeses and fudge. NATIVE WILDLIFE Noosa National Park is home to many well-known Australian animals. Take an early morning stroll looking out for Top tip: Wild bird encounters kangaroos, koalas and carpet pythons in The new wildlife experience at O’Reilly’s in Lamington National Park lets you spend their natural habitat (the snake is terrifying some one-on-one time with a Peregrine Falcon or Wedge-tailed Eagle. The 30 minute when less than a foot away, but harmless). Thirty minutes into the park, you’ll reach session teaches you about handling, care and management of the raptors while luring Dolphin Point where you may be lucky the bird to your own glove. enough to spot dolphins and whales.

98 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 99 AUSTRALIA - Queensland Queensland - AUSTRALIA The Whitsundays and southern Great Barrier Reef (5 - 6 days) One of the most recognised World-Heritage sites, home to 900 islands and coral cays and running 1,400 miles parallel across the length of Queensland, is none other than the Great Barrier Reef. Starting at the southern tip, the islands here allow an opportunity for couples, families and larger groups to connect with local characters – both in and out of the water. Lady Elliot Island is a short flight from Brisbane and other domestic airports and is great for diving straight off the beach. Top tip: Swim with the rays - The southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef hosts a resident population of more than 40 individual rays. Divers and snorkelers can swim with the graceful rays year round. Those keen to stay dry can take a glass bottom boat tour, glimpsing the rays and coral from above. The Great Barrier Reef Day Trip runs from the Gold Coast, Brisbane, Hervey Bay and Bunda- The Reef A two hour berg and includes guided snorkelling, a glass bottom boat flight from Bris- tour, lunch and a scenic flight on return. meets the bane is Cairns, Located midway along Queensland’s coast, approxi- Queensland’s mately 695 miles north of Brisbane is The Whitsundays Rainforest tropical north – a collection of 74 tropical islands in the heart of the and the only (7+ days) Great Barrier Reef. An easy flight from Brisbane to place in the Mossman River Hamilton Island quickly transfers you from the city to world where two World-Heritage icons meet. An hour’s an ocean paradise. Islands here are designated national drive north is Port Douglas, a laidback seaside village parks, there are coral cays, fringing corals and stunning home to Four Mile Beach – a secluded stretch of sand beaches – including Whitehaven, often voted one of the overlooking the water and my mum’s favourite place on world’s best beaches from its white silica sands stretched Earth. Day trips run from Cairns and Port Douglas to the over 4 miles along Whitsunday Island (the largest island Agincourt Reef in the outer reef. The shallow and calm of the bunch). waters on these tours means in any conditions, snorkel- A visit to this part of Queensland is a must if you’re a ers and first time divers can jump straight off the boat born water baby. Venture off shore and try the number Whitsundays and into the ocean, and with any luck will find a famous of water-based activities – jet skiing, parasailing, high- clownfish called Nemo. For those who would prefer to speed boat, sailing and kayaking. The islands’ fringing keep their hair dry, sunset cruises depart early evening coral reefs are easily accessible on a range of tours which – where the hues of pink, orange and yellow of the sea present a chance to see up close the corals and fish in an reflect seamlessly in a glass of champagne. underwater wonderland. Next on the itinerary is the Daintree Rainforest (the last World-Heritage I’ll list). This is the earth’s oldest sur- Top tip: Platypus Safari viving tropical rainforest. There are many ways to see this These safaris are a great way to see some of Queensland’s ancient landmark, from the canopies on a jungle safari, most unique animals. Two hundred miles south of or cruising down the Daintree River spotting crocodiles Cairns, just outside of Townsville, wildlife enthusiasts and exploring mangroves. The most overwhelming, are encouraged to join a Hidden Valley Cabins host Top tip: Turtle hatching however, is reaching one of the openings, Cow Bay Beach on an adventure through the dry sclerophyll scrub Between November and March on Heron Island, witness thousands of for example, and arriving at the point where green meets to see some cute and rare nocturnal animals such as turtles laying eggs, watch hatchlings emerge from their nest and even have the blue. gliders, possums, night spiders, Rufous Bettongs (cross chance to lead them down to the sea to help them start their ocean adventure. A rewarding and educational experience is to learn between a rat and a kangaroo), night birds and owls. Turtle hatchlings can also be viewed after dark in Bundaberg, a town 239 miles about the life and heritage of Australia’s indigenous peo- north of Brisbane city. Loggerhead Turtles are an endangered species and ac- ple. The Daintree is home to the Kuku Yulanji people, cess to the beach is limited during turtle season but guided walks are conducted where brothers Linc and Brandon Walker follow the most nights at Mon Repos Beach, approx 9 miles east of Bundaberg city ancient traditions of their ancestors. They educate visi- centre. tors about their culture including that of the traditional Travelbag offers a 2 week Queensland Discovery campervan rental including fishing ground, Cooya Beach. With the brothers, you return international flights from £1,189pp. learn how to throw a spear to catch crabs and cook them Call 0844 846 8992 for details or visit your local Travelbag shop. fresh on an open fire.

100 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 101 Self-Drive Australia & New Zealand With Campervan rental with Britz and motorhome rental with Maui, you can explore Australia and New Zealand at your own pace, offering you total freedom and independence. Britz features a range of vehicles including a fantastic choice of 4WD for if you are seeking to unravel a real adventure. Maui has an innovative approach to vehicle design, blending comfortable living with an adventurous holiday lifestyle.

14-day Australia Britz campervan fr £1,059pp 21-day Australia Maui motorhome fr £1,799pp 14-day New Zealand Britz campervan fr £1,039pp 21-day New Zealand Maui motorhome fr £1,459pp All packages include return international flights To book visit travelbag.co.uk or call 0844 846 8992 Visit your local Travelbag shop: London, Alton, Brighton, Cheltenham, Knutsford, Solihull & Winchester AUSTRALIA - New South Wales Legendary

The Legendary Pacific Coast provides the perfect nature and wildlife escape, with 48 national parks to discover. The great outdoors will call you to unwind with Australia’s a quiet bushwalk amongst ancient eucalypt forests, take an invigorating ramble along coastal headlands or rocky escarpments with views for miles, set off on a barefoot trek Classic across majestic coastal sand dunes or into the lush, cool sub-tropical hinterland of Northern New South Wales. Pack a picnic lunch, take a scenic drive to a stunning lookout, set up camp for a few nights or stay in a heritage- Road Trip listed National Parks cottage. From the hinterland to the coast, you can be as active as you please, whether it is From rite of passage road trips to the adventures of hiking, meditating, swimming, surfing, kayaking, mountain those young at heart, generations of Britons have cherished biking, or simply watching the world go by. memories of holidays along Australia’s Legendary Pacific The unspoilt beauty of the Legendary Pacific Coast Coast. They bring home stories of the beaches, coastal is the authentic “surfers paradise”, home to the most towns, national parks, resorts, cabins and caravan parks that accessible surf beaches in Australia. Surfing and beach make the journey between Sydney and Brisbane Australia’s culture is so embedded in the Australian way of life that classic road trip. Whether it is finding a secluded beach, the country has designated National Surfing Reserves, the thrill of riding a wave, seeing dolphins play in the wild, several of which you can find on the Legendary Pacific standing in World Heritage-listed rainforest or sampling Coast: at Angourie near Yamba, at Crescent Head in some of Australia’s renowned fresh seafood and innovative the Macleay Valley north of Port Macquarie, at Lennox wines, the Legendary Pacific Coast lives up to its name. This Head between Ballina and Byron Bay – home to the world self-drive touring route takes in some of country’s best food famous Lennox Point break – and at Merewether Beach, and wine, nature and wildlife, beach and coastal, and art a reserve stretching two kilometres along the spectacular and cultural experiences. With countless ways to indulge, coastline around Newcastle. Regardless of whether you are explore or unwind, we recommend that you spend at least a a learner, enthusiast, professional or are simply fascinated week travelling between Sydney and Brisbane. Your journey by the spectacle of dancing on waves, you will find fun on is all part of the adventure. some of the best surfing beaches Australia has to offer. Australia is home to a melting pot of cuisine and award- Vibrant and innovative, the Legendary Pacific Coast’s winning wines. To embark on a legendary food and wine arts and culture trail is a continually evolving journey. odyssey, follow one of the many scenic drives off the main Heritage sites abound, set amongst ancient natural Pacific Highway. You will meander through wineries, tea landscapes. Australian artists are shown in permanent and coffee plantations, olive groves, macadamia, avocado and touring collections along the East Coast. There and tropical fruit farms, lush dairy pastures, and rivers are performance spaces, intimate galleries, grassroots and estuaries brimming with freshwater fish and succulent performers at local markets and interactive art studios oysters. Stop off at a renovated colonial cottage that has to discover. Highlights include the Ken Duncan Gallery, been lovingly restored into a gastronomic temple of delight, showcasing landscape photography, on the Central Coast; a charming tasting room, regional wineries or a growing the award winning Tweed Regional River Art Gallery number of boutique breweries that have crafted dishes to in the far north of New South Wales, where a nationally complement and enhance the characters of their region. renowned collection of art is set against majestic views of On the coast you can combine cuisine with Australian surf the ancient volcanic caldera of Wollumbin – Mt Warning; culture at one of the ubiquitous surf life saving clubs, where the urban renewal of Newcastle, a former industrial centre; you can enjoy some of the most jaw-dropping ocean front and Byron Bay’s community of artists and musicians. locations and updated culinary offerings of contemporary Seasonal art exhibitions and a rich calendar of annual prepared by chefs from around the globe. festivals complement the permanent cultural offerings.

104 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 105 AUSTRALIA - New South Wales Top Ten Must Do Experiences on the Legendary Pacific Coast

Take a cruise amongst resident 1 dolphins and seasonal migrating whales in Port Stephens.

Head to the Hunter Valley, 2 Australia’s oldest wine region, with over 120 cellar doors to visit.

Witness the first rays of sun 3 from Cape Byron Lighthouse in Byron Bay, mainland Australia’s most easterly point.

Survey the rainforest canopy 4 from the stunning Skywalk boardwalk, towering 70 metres above the rainforest floor in Dorrigo National Park.

Adopt a cute friend at the 5 world’s only Koala Hospital and Conservation Centre in Port Macquarie.

See Tasmanian devils, 6 crocodiles, snakes, spiders and BONDI SURF BONDI PRIVATE BONDI LOCAL other reptiles at the Australian Reptile Park on the Central Coast. EXPERIENCE SURF LESSON HALF DAY TOUR

Check out the vibrant colours This popular two hour Experience the thrill of Enjoy an authentic, 7 and eclectic ambience of beginner lesson will safely surfing world famous personalised tour in a Nimbin, the centre of Australia’s get you up and onto your Bondi Beach with your small group. This four alternative lifestyles. first wave before you own personal instructor. hour Bondi Beach surfing Play a round of golf with a know it. You’ll be amazed Great for individuals, tour includes; transfers, 8 World-Heritage-listed backdrop Download the free Legendary Pacific Coast iPad or at how easy, safe and families and small groups exclusive group lesson, at Bonville Golf Course near Coffs iPhone app and visit www.pacificcoast.com.au where you’ll enjoyable it can be to wanting a personal surf lifesaving club tour & Harbour. Bonville was voted Australia’s find a holiday planner, themed itineraries, road maps and learn to surf. surfing experience. casual beachside lunch. Leading Golf Resort in 2011 and 2012. information on facilities. You can also stream or download a treasure trove of ancient and contemporary Australian Watch surfers strut their stuff at Aboriginal stories told by indigenous elders, recorded as part 9 Lennox Point or Angourie, two of the Saltwater-Freshwater project. of New South Wales’ National Surfing Reserves. Travelbag offers a 7 day Capital & Pacific Coast self EAT! With boutique wineries, drive from £1,269pp including 3* accommodation, car 10 over 40 farmers’ markets, hire and return international flights. and cafes and restaurants using Call 0844 846 8992 for details or visit your local locally available produce, you will find Travelbag shop. memorable meals to suite every taste.

106 Escape letsgosurfing.com

Travelbag A4.indd 1 2/07/13 8:25 PM Meeting the Locals has never been more memorable

DISCOVER NINGALOO REEF AT AUSTRALIA.COM W estern Australia - AUSTRALIA

Into The Blue Ningaloo Marine Park in Western Australia is home to one of the world’s largest fringing reefs (that’s a reef that grows close to shore). Swimmers, snorkelers and divers flock here from across the world for close encounters with whale sharks, manta rays, dolphins, turtles and giant schools of fish. Mark Chipperfield slips on his fins and explores down under.

It’s 8.15am on a perfect Western Australian morning and But you don’t need to be a budding Jacques Cousteau to I’m kayaking across an impossibly blue ocean to the edge of explore Ningaloo Reef, located on Australia’s Coral Coast Ningaloo Reef, the world’s most pristine fringing coral reef. near the outback settlement of Exmouth. The best coral is “We’ll head south for a bit,” shouts Mark, my guide, from less than 20 metres from the beach. Anyone with a snorkel, the back of the kayak. “That way we won’t have to battle the mask and fins can simply swim out and drift across the reef sou-wester when the wind picks up later in the morning.” by themselves. Twenty minutes later we’ve reached our dive spot, Although many travellers who drive here from Perth dropped anchor and are gearing up with snorkels, masks are happy to snorkel by themselves, it’s worth joining an and fins. Mark keeps the kayak stable as I slip inelegantly organised diving expedition – especially if you have a over the side and then – wham! – I’m in a stunning, multi- passion for scuba diving and want to visit deeper dive sites. coloured underwater world teeming with all manner of Thanks to its northerly location, water temperatures in the tropical fish, gargantuan cabbage corals delicately waving seas around Exmouth rarely drop below 17C so snorkelling soft corals and huge sponges. is possible all year round – although a light wetsuit and rash Over the next couple of hours I see a total of six reef shirt are advisable during the Australian winter (June to sharks, along with a couple of green turtles and a massive September). crayfish hiding in his aquatic lair. Dolphins, turtles, manta I spent two magical days at Sal Salis, an eco-camp at rays, humpback whales and, occasionally, the elusive dugong South Mandu beach 70kms south of Exmouth, which are all found in these waters. makes a perfect base from which to explore the reef Divers near Exmouth

110 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 111 AUSTRALIA - Western Australia Western Australia - AUSTRALIA

“Over the next couple of hours I see a total of six reef sharks, along with a couple of green turtles and a massive crayfish hiding in his aquatic lair. Dolphins, turtles, manta rays, humpback whales and, occasionally, the elusive dugong are all found in these waters.” and hinterland. The camp, which is carefully hidden in Indeed, shark expert Valerie Taylor likens the experience the dunes, offers a range of swimming, snorkelling and of swimming underwater with one of these creatures to kayaking expeditions – plus some land-based activities in witnessing “a tanker emerging from the fog”. the Cape Range National Park. Whale sharks are the gentle giants of the sea and while Despite its arid appearance an astonishing number of they may look capable of swallowing you whole, their main animals thrive in this harsh desert landscape, including interest is krill not tourist. What brings them back here Whale Shark kangaroos, euros, perentie lizards and the endangered black- every year is high-protein eggs and plankton drifting on footed . The birdlife is equally impressive – ranging ocean currents after coral spawning. Despite their fame, book into the $30m Novotel Ningaloo Resort, which has with good mattresses and fine cotton sheets – although not from lumbering emus to delicate little honeyeaters. whale sharks are not the only attraction to be found in the air-conditioned rooms, a gym, swimming pool and an up- everyone will appreciate waiting for their solar shower to It is the whale shark, however, which is the region’s waters around the North West Cape. There are plenty of market bar and a la carte restaurant. heat up. I really liked having my own veranda and a bowl of undisputed superstar. Each year (April to July) the reef plays other swimming companions here, 400 fish species and 250 For anyone who wants a total Ningaloo experience water for my sandy feet. host to hundreds of these giant fish who come here to feed species of coral, plus numerous types of clams, anemones though, Sal Salis takes some beating. The camp, which is the Anyone who visits Ningaloo Reef for even a few days during the coral spawning season. Ningaloo Reef is one of and sponges. Exmouth is now an established destination for only tourist operation allowed within Cape Range National will be deeply affected by the experience. The astonishing the best places to experience a close encounter with one of scuba divers from around the world who come here to swim Park, consists of nine ‘wilderness’ tents, a central recreation richness of the marine life, the region’s sense of remoteness these amazing creatures. off the nearby Muiron Islands, Lighthouse Bay, West Side and dining area, viewing platform and a shaded beachside and the harsh physical beauty of the landscape are all A number of dive boats now operate from Exmouth and or the old Navy Pier – regarded as one of Australia’s finest cabana, perfectly blending the raw, outback camping overwhelming. nothing is left to chance – many use spotter planes to secure shore dives and offering a huge range of fish, moray eels, experience with high-end service and food. I was particularly But my abiding memory is of waking early each morning the best swimming spots. Visitors have the option of scuba sharks, turtles and giant cod. impressed by the staff at Sal Salis who are young, polite and to the gentle sound of the surf, seeing South Mandu beach diving or snorkelling with these amazing creatures - whale Voted one of the Top Ten shore dives in Australia, the bursting with enthusiasm. Guests are free to do as much or a perfectly framed by the doors of my tent and contemplating sharks and weigh upto 21 tonnes and reach 18m in length Navy Pier site has a maximum depth of 15m and is suitable little as they like – for some people just walking on the beach yet another day of high adventure on the reef. – or, for the less confident, watching them from the viewing for divers of varying levels of experience, but since this is is reward enough, others will spend all their time on the reef. platform of the boat. still a working naval facility you’ll need to book through a Apart from its team of guides, Sal Salis employs two full- Travelbag offers 4 nights Perth and a 6 day Coral The fascination with these animals is totally understandable. licensed dive operator. Nearby, the township of Exmouth time chefs who produce a mouth-watering range of meals Coast & Dolphin self drive from £1,329pp including 3* Characterised by a wide flat mouth and covered in white (population 2,500) offers a wide range of accommodation to (from whole baked fish to honey-coated spatchcock) and accommodation, car hire and return international flights. stripes and elaborately spotted skin, the whale shark is a truly suit most budgets – from camping sites, budget motels and even fresh muffins. Call 0844 846 8992 for details or visit your local beautiful sight – especially when encountered in the wild. holiday cottages. Those craving a taste of luxury can now The tents themselves are surprisingly comfy and spacious, Travelbag shop.

112 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 113 , Gowers

You’ve spent plenty of time working You have a reputation for being a wine connoisseur, and playing in Perth, where do you what do you think of Western Australian wine? always go back to? Australia as a whole is full of the stuff, but the wines of When I was living in Perth playing for Western Australia are really award winning. There are Claremont Cottesloe Cricket Club, I hundreds of wineries you can visit down in the Margaret spent half of my time on the beach, River Region south of Perth. One of the most famous is particularly on Cottesloe Beach. It has Leeuwin Estate (leeuwinestate.com.au), a family run place white sand and this lovely warm Indian which makes a gorgeous drop. But if you don’t have time perth Ocean. There are a lot of beautiful people to go down south, the Swan Valley is just a short drive from down there too! Perth and you can find another host of great labels there Perth is a great place to eat and drink. They have too. Sandalfords (sandalford.com) is one of the best I’ve Cricketing legend David Gower knows a thing or two about fantastic seafood and there are some great restaurants tried. Australia. During a sparkling career that included playing down by the Swan River (Coco’s in South Perth has always 117 tests for England, 32 as captain and winning the Ashes been a favourite of mine). The river is very picturesque and it really defines Perth. It goes right through the heart in 1985 he has spent a lot of time travelling around the of the city centre. In the middle of the city you have country, first as a player and now as a commentator for people sailing and dinghy racing. It’s a gorgeous view. Sky and the Sunday Times. He developed a soft spot for Fremantle is really good for a night out too, especially Western Australia as a young cricketer when he spent four Little Creatures Brewery which is popular with all the guys on the Sky Sports team. months living in Perth and travelling the state. Here he shares his travel tips for combining the cricket with some What about wildlife? Do you have a favourite extraordinary experiences on the west coast. Australian experience? During the last series I took my family to Ningaloo Reef And what about the cricket? KNOW THE after SCO the PerthRE Test. It’s an incredible place. We stayed Perth’s WACA was the place I scored my first 100 in a safari camp called Sal Salis right on the beach. I’ve against Australia so it’s a special ground for me. It is also been to the Great Barrier Reef a few times, but Ningaloo the smallest ground which gives it a great yet intimate is quieter and more accessible. The reef is right there in atmosphere. front of you; just metres from the shore you can swim with I’m a big believer that when you are going out for an manta rays, turtles and huge shoals of fish. Ashes series you should be a traveller first and a cricket fan I’d like to get up to the Bungle Bungles at some point. second as there is just so much to see and do, especially on Even though I’ve been coming to WA for so long, there still the west coast. I love the travel and with everything there seems to be so much I haven’t seen. That’s one the reasons is to do it should be a dream trip for both cricket fans and I never tire of going back. their wives, husbands, children or friends.

The Western Australia Cricket Association (WACA) is home to the third test between 13- KNOW 17th December. Capacity: 22,000 THE Located on the banks of the Swan River in East Perth, the WACA is only a short walk from the city centre, or catch the free shuttle service, the CAT, which runs regularly through the city. SCORE Perth is just an 18 flight from the UK, four hours closer than Sydney. The WACA Perth is just eight hours ahead of the UK, making it easier to get over your jet lag. Twenty minutes from leaving the airport you can be in the heart of Perth or dipping your toe in the Indian Ocean. Australia’s sunniest capital, Perth offers 3,000 hours of sunshine a year and 19 beaches to enjoy it on.

Travelbag offers 4nights Perth and a 6 day Coral Coast & Dolphin self drive from £1,329pp including 3* accommodation, car hire and return international flights. Call 0844 846 8992 for details or visit your local Travelbag shop.

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Hand-picked accommodation At APT, they understand that everyone has different needs – that’s why they As the experts, APT provide you with the best accommodation choices offer a range of holiday options to suit every taste. throughout your Australia & New Zealand journey. Stay in properties that Guided Tours define a destination, from APT’s exclusive Wilderness Lodges in the Kimberley; Their Guided Tours offer thoughtfully designed itineraries that you can join to the finest city-centre hotels, alpine retreats and island resorts across in either Australia or New Zealand – allowing you the flexibility to easily Australia & New Zealand. incorporate an APT tour into your trip Down Under. Advertisement FEATURE Advertisement FEATURE New Zealand Getaway Southern Tourer Highlights Mt Cook National Park 15 days fr £2,599 inc flights 9 days fr £2,549 inc flights Discover this spectacular region, home to Valid for selected departure dates 2013/14, October - February. Subject to availability Valid for selected departure dates 2013/14, October - April. Subject to availability Australasia’s highest peak Lake Tekapo Explore the highlights of New Zealand on this amazing 15 day Snow capped mountains, Take in the views and see New Zealand’s famous tiny Church of the Good Shepherd tour. Highlights include the Bay of Islands, the geothermal crystal clear lakes, World Darfield geysers and rich Maori culture of Rotorua and the snow capped Heritage National Parks and Experience the rail journey of a lifetime aboard the TranzAlpine Train

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Highlights East Coast Natureworld Meet a rare Tasmanian Devil and other unique Discover Australia Grand Tasman wildlife 18 days fr £3,299 inc flights Port Arthur 10 days fr £2,379 inc flights Valid for selected departure dates 2014, January - March. Subject to availability Take a step back in time and delve into Valid for selected departure dates 2013/14, September - May. Subject to availability Australia’s convict history Pristine beaches, vast desert landscapes, ancient rainforests, On this 10 day tour experience the beautiful coastline of Salamanca Market Peruse the many stalls of the famous Salamanca bustling cosmopolitan cities, distinctive wildlife and an ancient Highlights Freycinet National Park and the ruins of Port Arthur before Market Alice Springs indigenous culture. Join this amazing tour of enticing wonders The geographical centre of Australia has a arriving in Hobart. Tour the beautiful Cradle Mountain-Lake St Ashgrove Tour the Ashgrove Cheese Factory and sample of this vast and extraordinary continent. pioneering history and ancient indigenous Clair, cruise the Gordon River. the local produce culture Cradle Mountain Ayers Rock Itinerary Soak up the atmosphere in Cradle Mountain- Take a guided tour around this famous monolith, Lake St Clair National Park viewing ancient caves and indigenous rock art Day 1: Arrive Launceston, Beaconsfield Mine and Day 6: Mt Field National Park, Lake St Clair, sites Heritage Centre, Welcome Dinner Strahan Tamar River Great Barrier Reef Day 2: Weldborough Pass, East Coast Day 7: Strahan, Gordon River Cruise, Sarah Island Enjoy a picturesque cruise along the Tamar River Natureworld, Tour, Cradle Mountain through magical Cataract Gorge Snorkel in the sheltered coral lagoon amidst the colourful coral and marine life Freycinet National Park, Swansea Day 8: Cradle Mountain, Dove Lake, Sheffield, Day 3: Ross, Richmond, Eaglehawk Neck, Port Stanley and The Nut, Smithton Arthur Day 9: Ashgrove Cheese Factory, Great Lakes Day 4: Port Arthur Historic Site, Harbour Cruise, Plateau, Launceston, Farewell Dinner Hobart Day 10: Cataract Gorge, Tamar River Cruise, Day 5: Hobart Sightseeing Tour, Salamanca Depart Launceston Itinerary Market Day 1: Arrive Perth, Transfer to Fremantle Day 2: Perth, Swan River Cruise Day 3: Fremantle Day 4: Fremantle, Perth, Alice Springs Day 5: Alice Springs Day 6: Alice Springs, Ayers Rock Day 7: Ayers Rock, Cairns Day 8: Great Barrier Reef Day 9-10: Cairns Day 11: Cairns, Melbourne Day 12-13: Melbourne Day 14: Melbourne, Sydney Day 15-17: Sydney Day 18: Depart Sydney Tasmania - AUSTRALIA Walking Tasmanian-style is a far cry from the images With always a minimum of two knowledgeable guides of soggy sandwiches, Kendall mint cake and leaky tents for every group of eight to ten guests, the pace is dictated that most Brits associate with hardy attempts at braving by the slowest walker, with plenty of opportunity for the the British countryside by foot. Think award-winning faster paced walkers to stretch themselves. Sometimes architect‑styled eco lodges cantilevered from granite, orange the walking can be less taxing than choosing which wine this island lichen-stained cliffs or secreted in the sun-dappled bush to have with your sautéed scallops. On Tasmania’s walks tucked behind endless wild beaches pounded by turquoise your soul will be as grateful as your taste buds. The seas, the playground for mega pods of dolphin, and the simple process of putting one foot in front of the other passage for whales on their trip north; imagine dining by will lead you on a path through magnificent scenery to candle and starlight in decadent standing camps protected extraordinary natural highs, both literally and figuratively. was made by parrot-filled forest canopies, finished off with a night in To say Tasmania’s walks can bring with them life a historic homestead with a roaring log fire, a warm bath changing experiences is honestly not an understatement. the reward for a day’s hike; always, no matter how remote One of Tasmania’s top walks, the Maria Island Walk, you seem to be, a convivial dinner of gourmet food washed describes itself with justification as four days that last a for walking down with some of the crispest, smoothest wines in the New lifetime. Another promises a life changing experience or World, made from grapes that have been allowed to ripen at your money back. What is guaranteed is that you will Tasmania is an island – or more accurately an archipelago While self-drive is the most popular visitor transport their leisure in the long, balmy Tasmanian autumn. see and learn things that will change your view on the of 334 islands – the size of Ireland with less than one of choice around Van Diemen’s Land, as it was known With 50% of the island protected by World Heritage or world forever, and it is highly likely that you will leave tenth of the population. Less than an hour’s flight south until 1856, four wheels actually achieve little more than National Park status, vast swathes of land both impenetrable Tasmania having made friends for life. Walking is perhaps of Melbourne, Tasmania is the last major landmass before to cover the ground (of which there is markedly more and uninhabited by people, the power of nature that the world’s first social network. Best of all, in Tasmania, Antarctica. Australia’s only island state, Tassie, as she is than most visitors imagine) at the fastest possible speed, dominates a land lying forty degrees south in the Great for the most part you are far more likely to come face to affectionately known, is an ancient, heart-shaped land, an which varies considerably from one side of the island to Southern Ocean is not to be understated, and unguided face with Tasmania’s weird and wonderful wildlife than extraordinarily diverse melting pot of New Zealand, South the other, and sometimes from one winding, precipitous walkers need to keep their wits about them. another human being, apart from your fellow walkers. America, mainland Australia and Gondwanaland - the photo-stop-inducing mile to the next. Travelling by car But don’t be fooled into thinking that walking in Tassie So, for a true immersion into Tasmania’s magical world as it existed millions of years ago. leaves the island’s greatest treasures – secret lakes, vast is only for the young and super fit. Far from it. In recent wilderness, eschew the hire car, at least for a day or two, The tallest flowering trees in the world, reaching more waterfalls tumbling from jagged peaks, perfectly formed decades the appeal of walking, particularly among the older longer if you can, pack a pair of comfortable walking than 100 metres in height, tower over millennia-old precious coves and platypus-filled streams - hidden away down generation has given birth to a new style of walking holiday shoes or invest in a pair of Tasmania’s legendary wildlife-filled alpine plateaus and button grass plains that unsealed tracks, down which your hire car is not permitted that puts comfort, even luxury, and itinerary at equal first ‘blunnies’ (Blundstone walking boots). Follow in the release tannins that stain the pure water streams the colour to drive. And never, ever should driving be attempted at in the list of criteria. There are a huge range of short walks footsteps of the dinosaurs, delving deep into 60 million of tea. Some 2,800 miles of coastline, including the highest dusk or dawn, when the roads will be liberally carpeted with for those who are unwilling or unable to embark on a longer year old rainforests, along stunning sea cliffs and down to cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere, hug a landscape of such marsupials including the desperately endangered Tasmanian journey by foot, but for those who want to see the world white sand deserted beaches, inaccessible other than by raw, ravishing and largely untouched natural beauty that it devil, which surely tops anyone’s must-see list on a visit to from a different perspective, there are several world-class foot. You won’t regret a single step of the journey. Walk leaves one gasping in astonishment at almost every twist and Tasmania. Hit one at your peril, and if you do, for heaven’s multi-day walks in Tasmania that take rambling to a new once in Tassie and you will almost certainly return to turn. sake check its pouch. Better still, don’t drive at night. level of sophistication. walk again.

Bruny Island

120 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 121 AUSTRALIA - Tasmania Tasmania - AUSTRALIA cradle huts This six day, 40 mile guided walk follows the iconic ten-day Overland Track how to take a walk on the wild side in tasmania – possibly the world’s greatest multi day walk - through Tasmania’s glacial and mountainous World Heritage area from Cradle Mountain to Lake St Clair. The the bruny island long weekend region, when it was inscribed onto the UNESCO list in 1983 after a massive The newest addition to Tasmania’s walking odyssey, this is more of a gourmet environmental battle, complied with an unprecedented and still unbeaten record and wildlife extravaganza with a bit of walking thrown in – or at least enough to of seven out of ten criteria. The Cradle Huts guided walk enables those with make you feel suitably active. Camps are of the highest standard, and the food moderate to good fitness to walk through land only usually accessible to the and wine are what you would expect from an island located off an island that has hardiest thanks to the most ecologically sustainable private huts, warm showers, its very own natural larder of wines, cheeses, oysters and a posse of makers poised Cradle Mountain Huts good meals and an experience that makes the bucket list in spade loads. to share it with you. Access to and from Bruny Island, a national park in its own right with some of the highest cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere is normally an the tarkine rainforest track hour’s drive from Hobart and a short ferry ride, but here you do it in style, with a Australia’s only rainforest walk runs through a remote part of North West catamaran trip down and a seaplane back to the city. This is perfect for time- Tasmania that has only been recognised in recent years, and is still the subject of strapped visitors who want to experience a touch of wilderness, but should also be bitter environmental controversy. This is the only haven left for healthy Tasmanian on the consideration list for any one with a taste for the gourmand life and a yen devils, and habitat to the world’s giant burrowing crayfish. You will journey to dust off the walking boots. Bruny Island through the largest cool temperate rainforest in the Southern Hemisphere. With no other visitors to the region, small groups travel through a pristine and remote the freycinet experience ancient forest wilderness, fostering a genuinely profound and memorable walking Arguably the only way to explore the iconic Freycinet Peninsula, this three Tarkine Rainforest Track experience. night walk covers the length of the peninsula and its national park on Tasmania’s East Coast, taking walkers into parts that no one else is permitted to enter. It culminates in one of Tasmania’s most remarkable vistas – Wineglass Bay - against a back drop of the Hazards Mountains. You walk out each day from your base, greatTasmania has hundreds short of short walks dottedwalks all around the state, most of the art and antique filled Friendly Beaches Lodge, to return to the nightly luxury which are usually accessible from main roads, making them an easy addition to of comfortable beds and a sumptuous dinner by a log fire. The solar powered any itinerary. Here is a selection not to be missed: lodge is one of those rare gems, tucked away in the bush on one of the most stunning beaches you will ever set foot on. Wineglass Bay russell falls and the tall trees walk, mount field national park the maria island walk An hour from Hobart, the Mount Field National Park gives visitors a glimpse One of Australia’s most decorated tourism experiences, this four-day walk into Tasmania’s stunning rainforest wilderness. The 30 minute Tall Trees explores the breathtaking landscape of the east coast island national park with its circuit takes you through a spectacular forest of the giant swamp gums, the deep-etched convict history. Walk among the fecund wildlife with light packs, on highest flowering trees on earth, the largest of which were growing when Abel gentle tracks, staying at two forest camps with comfortable beds, and outstanding Tasman first sighted Tasmania in 1642. Towards the falls, the track is framed food and wine, rewarded by a final night in the restored historic Bernacchi by impossibly picturesque tall tree ferns. Platypuses are common by day, and by House. With rich aboriginal history, a penal settlement that predates Port Arthur Waterfall Bay Track night time glow worms can be seen among the vegetation. and an extraordinary density of wildlife (including all Tasmania’s endemic birds) this is the walk for animal lovers. The recent release of wild Tasmanian devils has wineglass bay lookout added a new dimension. Maria Island An easy if steep 40 minute puff brings you to the much photographed Wineglass Bay Lookout on the Freycinet Peninsula. What seems like barely more bay of fires walk than a skip and a hop down brings you to the talcum powder white sand of this Explore the breathtaking coastline known as the Bay of Fires, so-named by the stunning bay that is shaped like a wine glass but actually named after the colour early sea-farers who saw the first settlers’ fires burning on the shore. Stay in the of the water during Tasmania’s gruesome whaling years, thankfully now forgotten Bay of Fires Lodge, whose minimalist design probably put Tasmania’s walking on by the returning whales. Return by the same route or, if energetic, continue your the grown-up map when it opened in 1998. Named by Lonely Planet as one of hike around the Hazards Mountains for a three and a half hour highly rewarding the world’s top 10 spots to visit in 2009, this remote landscape in Tasmania’s north circular walk. Expect to meet the odd wallaby, echidna, pademelon or Forester east, littered with Aboriginal middens, is the passage from one world to another, Wineglass Bay and The Hazards kangaroo on the way. a place unchanged by time. Two nights are spent in the Lodge, and one night is spent in the Forester Beach Camp. Bay of Fires king billy track, cradle mountain lodge crater lake, cradle mountain It claims to be 40 minutes but most people will happily ramble it in 15. This Start on the boardwalk that marks the commencement of the Overland Track is a lovely short walk to work up an appetite for breakfast if you are staying at around a quarter mile before the popular Dove Lake walk, and leaving the tourists Cradle Mountain Lodge. Despite the lodge’s popularity you are unlikely to bump behind you, climb steadily to Crater Lake. Stop to scoop up handfuls of crystal into many fellow guests but you are likely to see numerous wallabies, pademelons clear, pristine water. With your thirst quenched, continue upwards towards Cradle and even the odd wombat. Mountain – carrying on to the summit if you are physically prepared, and if the Cradle Mountain Lodge mercurial weather allows – or take the path back down towards Dove Lake which you can still walk around if you have the energy and time before nightfall. Walk back to Wombat Pools and, if it is approaching dusk, stand on the boardwalk Travelbag offers a 10 day Tasmania Grand Circle self drive from £1,599pp and marvel as the button grass hummocks turn into wombats, probably within including 3* accommodation, car hire and return international flights. touching distance, in the gloaming. Call 0844 846 8992 for details or visit your local Travelbag shop. Cradle Mountain Lake St Clair National Park

122 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 123 South Australia - AUSTRALIA A Genuine The Flinders Ranges Not only are the Flinders Ranges breathtakingly beautiful, they are also ancient, majestic and bursting with history – prehistoric, Aboriginal as well as pioneering history. Quite rightly they are recognized as one of Australia’s outstanding National Landscapes. Australian Experience This is the place to step back in time and see fossils of international renown and With a total of more than ten days either side of The Ashes’ test in Adelaide, spectating cricket fans have significance; to hear stories about Australia’s most famous explorers, Burke and Wills, and to find out what it’s like to be an opal miner in one of the hottest places a wonderful opportunity to discover and explore one of Australia’s most underrated regions – South on earth. This region can easily be explored and discovered in a number of ways Australia. South Australia offers a bona fideA ustralian experience. It is unexpected yet familiar, safe – overland on foot, by bike or four-wheel drive, or from the air by hot air balloon yet exciting, unusual yet welcoming, large yet intimate. So, cricket fans, prepare to be bowled over by or light aircraft. And in terms of activities, wildlife spotting, bird watching, star gazing and feral something a little bit different, four regions that are big and bold and deserving of your full attention. food sampling are some of the other things to see and do, and that’s before you have even had time to pick up your camera to take some stunning photographs. Kangaroo Island For sheer quirkiness, Coober Pedy has to take first prize. This is a town Australia’s third largest island is There’s also no getting away from inhabited by opal miners who, over the years, have taken to living underground to quite simply a ‘must visit’ destination the fact that Kangaroo Island also avoid the searing heat and sleeping in an underground hotel room must surely be for nature and wildlife lovers. It is has a bohemian feel to it, attracting Rawnsley Park Station one of travel’s more unusual experiences. no exaggeration to say that this is the artists and creative spirits. Apart from FIVE THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW place to see the greatest variety of exploring the many art and craft 1 The Flinders Ranges is one of the free roaming animals. But, this island galleries, don’t miss a visit to KIS world’s oldest mountain ranges. could just as easily have been called (Kangaroo Island Spirits). One could 2 When Australia was attached to Koala Island or Seal Island as this is easily be fooled by the ramshackle Antarctica this region was covered by also home to koalas and wallabies, fur façade, but behind this unpromising a vast inland sea dotted with icebergs seals, sea lions, penguins and dolphins, exterior is, quite literally, spiritual and teeming with reptilian life. as well as echidna and duck-billed heaven – dare to sample chili vodka, 3 The Flinders Ranges is home to the platypus. And, the best way to explore vanilla liquor and triple distilled wild world’s oldest reef estimated to be the island’s wildlife is on a guided gin. 650-million-years-old. It is ten times safari that makes wildlife spotting easy, higher than the Great Barrier Reef not to mention accessible. A walk on TOP 3 PLACES TO VISIT: and 80 million years older than the Seal Bay’s sandy beaches provides an 1 Remarkable Rocks oldest known reef. unforgettable experience of coming 2 Admiral’s Arch 4 Coober Pedy Golf Course has close and personal to wild seals 3 Seal Bay reciprocal rights with Scotland’s St. frolicking in the waves and sunbathing TOP FIVE ACTIVITIES: Andrews Golf Course. Becoming a on the shore. 1 Wildlife spotting member at Coober Pedy entitles you And, whilst on the topic of 2 Sailing to play at St. Andrews course and sunbathing, it is worth pointing out 3 Fishing vice versa. the sheer number and utter beauty 4 Sand boarding 5 Anna Creek Station is the world’s of Kangaroo Island’s beaches, each 5 Birdwatching largest cattle station, covering 24,000 one more breathtaking than the last, TOP 3 PLACES TO STAY: sq kms or six million acres. Remarkable Rocks Prairie hotel peppering the entire 540kms coastline. 1 Southern Ocean Lodge – award Food and wine lovers will also find winning, unashamed luxury themselves well sated as the island 2 Lifetime Private Retreats – TOP 3 PLACES TO VISIT: is home to 30 vineyards and has a individual and intimate luxury 1 Wilpena Pound – a huge natural phenomenon and growing reputation for its dynamic 3 Kangaroo Island Wilderness rock amphitheater food and wine culture which includes Retreat – wallabies feeding on 2 Lake Eyre – Australia’s largest lake which is dry most pure Ligurian honey, exceptional the lawns of the year seafood, cheese and olive oil. 3 Coober Pedy – famed for its opals and underground living TOP 3 ACTIVITIES: FIVE THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW 1 The Arkaba Walk – three-day walks, sleeping in 1 Kangaroo Island is seven times the size of Singapore. swags at en route camps 2 This is Australia’s newest wine region and the only defined island wine region in 2 Hot air ballooning – departures from Rawnsley Park the world. Station 3 The island separated from the mainland over 10,000 years ago. Animals and 3 The Ridgetop Tour – a 4WD adventure taking in plants evolved differently creating new species including a sub species of kanga- razor-back ridges roo, darker with a shorter nose and longer hair than its mainland cousin. TOP 3 PLACES TO STAY: 4 Almost a third of the island is either a National or Conservation Park - there 1 Wilpena Pound Resort – roaming roos abound on are 21 in total – whilst 50% of the island’s vegetation has never been cleared. the grounds 5 Orlando Wines’ founding father, Johan Gramp first lived on Kangaroo Island 2 Rawnsley Park Station – famed for its eco-villas before settling at Jacob’s Creek in the Barossa. The Prairie Hotel – its feral food menu is a must Southern Ocean Lodge 3

124 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 125 AUSTRALIA - South Australia South Australia - AUSTRALIA

Eyre Peninsula The Murray River TOP 3 PLACES TO VISIT: Once you realise that the Eyre Peninsula boasts a rugged 2,000kms coastline, it Another less conventional touring option, but one which is perhaps the most 1 The Coorong – an won’t take much to understand why this is the place for adrenalin junkies of the relaxing of them all, is cruising along the Murray River. Justly known as The internationally renowned wetland aquatic variety. Mighty Murray, this is Australia’s longest river, 640kms of which dramatically 2 Gluepot Reserve – 50,000 Port Lincoln is the perfect base from which to start your adventures. Not only meander through South Australia before entering the Southern Ocean. Paddle hectares of birdwatching haven can you swim with dolphins and sea lions, you can also try something that is not wheelers, houseboats and canoes are the order of the day to watch the honey 3 Banrock Station Wine & available anywhere else on earth – swimming with tuna – one of the world’s coloured sandstone cliffs, ancient red gums, wetlands and rugged mallee Wetland Centre – championing fastest fishes. And, if you still have some adrenalin left, the ultimate experience landscapes roll by. wine & conservation must be cage shark diving – heading below the water’s surface to come face to face But, if you also happen to be a twitcher, then you’re in for the treat of a lifetime TOP 3 ACTIVITIES: with the king of marine predator – the great white shark. as this has to be one of Australia’s best bird watching destinations. The Coorong 1 Birdwatching On dry land, in terms of food, the Eyre Peninsula is considered to be to seafood alone - a shallow saline lagoon stretching 100kms - is home to over 230 bird 2 Canoeing what the Barossa is to wine. Simply put it is Australia’s seafood capital. A great species. Think cockatoos, kingfishers, honeyeaters, ducks, parrots, swans, pelicans, 3 Fishing way to test this theory is to hit the self-drive Seafood and Aquaculture Trail which ibis, spoonbills, herons, egrets, ibis, doves and many, many more. goes behind the scenes throughout the region spotlighting producers of oysters, abalone and other seafood. But the Eyre Peninsula is not all about the coastline. Head inland to discover dry salt lake beds, so white you’d swear they were covered with ice were it not for the shimmering haze of the outback heat. It’s no coincidence that this is where land speed trials are held. Star gazing is also a must as the unpolluted, cloudless skies provide the perfect scenario for nocturnal southern sky viewing. Quirkiness also extends to the Eyre Peninsula so be sure to take in the Tunarama Seafood & Wine Festival which is held each January – tuna tossing is just one of the festival’s highlights.

TOP 3 PLACES TO VISIT: TOP 3 ACTIVITIES: 1 Port Lincoln 1 Swim with tuna, dolphins & sea lions 2 Gawler Ranges National Park 2 Cage shark diving 3 Baird Bay 3 Golf

FIVE THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW 1 The Nullarbor Link Golf Course is the world’s longest golf course. The 18-hole par 72 course stretches 1,365kms from Kalgoorlie (in Western Australia) to Ceduna (in South Australia) with one hole in each participating town or roadhouse. Holes can be as far as 100 kms apart. 2 Seeing Lake Eyre , according to “Australian Traveler” magazine, is something to behold. They rated it Murray River as their third top experience in “100 Things To Do Before You Die”. FIVE THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW 3 The Lake Eyre basin covers around 1 The Murray River stretches 3,700kms from the Snowy 17% of Australia is the world’s fifth Mountains in New South Wales to the Southern Ocean in largest lake. South Australia. 4 This is the only place in the world to 2 It is the fourth largest river system in the world. swim with tuna. 3 There are over 40 nation parks along the Murray. 5 Port Lincoln is home to the Southern 4 PS Murray Princess is Australia’s largest inland paddle- Hemisphere’s biggest fishing port, wheeler. four times the size of Sydney 5 The area is known for its fruit growing orchards – grapes, Harbour, with more millionaires per citrus and stone fruits, as well as its almond and pistachio capita than any other Australian city. nut cultivation.

Travelbag offers a 4 nights 3* Mercure Grosvenor Adelaide and a 6 day South Australia Outback self drive from £1,399pp including car hire and return international flights. Call 0844 846 8992 for details or visit your local Travelbag shop.

126 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 127 Northern Territory - AUSTRALIA

From ‘cameleering’ to cuddling a python and dining on barramundi under a starlit desert sky, visitors to Australia’s Red Centre will be surprised by the range of experiences on offer in the ancient and eternally captivating heart of this vast Revelling in continent. Typically taken to mean the sprawling desert region stretching from Alice Springs to Uluru (Ayers Rock), the Red Centre of Australia is a holiday destination in its own right with a myriad of tales, tours and activities. No trip Down Under would be complete without Australia’s a visit to Australia’s Outback, and Alice Springs is the natural place to start the adventure. Framed by the striking MacDonnell Ranges and red desert landscape, Alice Springs, or ‘The Alice’ as it’s known by locals, is rich in Aboriginal culture, Red Centre European explorer history and native wildlife.

Uluru

128 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 129 AUSTRALIA - Northern Territory Northern Territory - AUSTRALIA Kings Canyon The holy grail of a Red Centre adventure lies just over a Star natural attractions at Uluru-Kata Tjuta include the four-hour drive (462 kilometres) south-west of Alice Springs, vivid bright pink flowers of the showy foxtail, (or Alputati Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and Australia’s most in the Anangu language). Kangaroos, emus, dingoes and recognisable icon, Uluru. Rising 348 metres from the desert, wallabies roam wild on the Red Desert sands and provide ‘the Rock’ cannot fail to impress, matching the light and plenty of picture-perfect moments. weather with hues so vivid they upstage the Serious ornithologists and casual sunset. twitchers alike will be captivated by Experiences here are plentiful and varied, the birdlife in the Red Centre, home to from joining a tour to learn about bush over 170 species. Keep an eye skyward tucker and the Dreamtime stories of this hues so for the brown falcon and Australian sacred site, to watching craft demonstrations Kestrel, or closer to the ground to spot by the Anangu people, Uluru’s traditional the singing honeyeater, the rare scarlet- custodians who have lived in the area for vivid they chested parrot and the aptly named tens of thousands of years. ‘splendid fairy wren.’ Plump for drinking in the ever changing upstage the There is a huge range of red, purple and pink colours of Uluru at accommodation in the region, from sunset with a glass of champagne in hand, purpose built campsites to budget hotels and then return to a campfire dinner of sunset through to exclusive safari-style lodges. barramundi, emu or kangaroo underneath Getting around is an easy affair and the spellbindingly starlit sky. can be a built-in part of the experience, Rise early and head out to Kata Tjuta. whether setting out in a campervan, Situated a short 40 kilometres hop from Uluru, these steep, 4WD or sitting back and admiring the view from a carriage rounded, russet domes formed through more than 500 million on board the legendary Ghan railway. years of erosion offer a spectacular sunrise. Take the 7.4 One thing is for certain on a trip to the heart of kilometre Valley of the Winds Walk through the giant domes Australia, the stories will last a lifetime. to enjoy impressive views over the desert plains.

Thorny Devils

Drop into the Aboriginal art galleries on Todd Mall for Head 450km south west of Alice Springs to Watarrka a brush with the local Arrernte people who have made the National Park for a glimpse of one of the continent’s striking region their home for some 50,000 years and board the Alice icons, Kings Canyon. A mighty 328ft chasm with towering Wanderer bus for a hop on hop off tour to unearth stories of sandstone walls, the Canyon’s sheer red rock faces soar above the early Afghan cameleers, flying doctors and Alice Springs dense forests of palms and native animals. The National Park School of the Air. is a nature lover’s paradise, the rugged terrain home to over Be sure to take time to explore the native flora and fauna; 600 species of plants and trees, from desert oaks and cypress from tiny lizards to roaming camels, the animals here are very pines to dazzling wildflowers. Hikers can stretch their legs on different to elsewhere in Australia. Wildlife the moderately challenging walk to the enthusiasts can get up close and personal rim for breath taking views and a glimpse with Australia’s largest lizard, the Perentie thorny of the weathered domes of ‘The Lost Goanna, as well as thorny devils and frill- City’, and be rewarded at the bottom necked lizards at the Reptile Centre, home devils with a chance to relax at the edge of the to the biggest reptile display in Central ‘Garden of Eden’ – a sheltered valley Melaleuca Forest Australia. Those who dare can take part with permanent waterholes and lush in a supervised lizard and python handling and vegetation. session during the daily shows. For the less energetic, the shorter and A visit to the Alice Springs Desert Park easier Kings Creek Walk at the Canyon will give an informative, bite-sized snapshot frill-necked base leads through ferns, cycads and of the Red Centre’s natural world, with eucalypts to a platform with views of three separate walk-through desert the sheer walls above. The eagle-eyed habitat areas accessed via a one mile trail. lizards may spot a peregrine falcon soaring Encounter finches, cockatoos, water birds, high above or a euro (a cross between frogs and fish in the ‘Desert Rivers’ habitat along with native a wallaby and a kangaroo) out foraging for food. For a real coolibah trees and river red gums, wander the desert and salt taste of Outback Australia and its pioneering spirit, make pans of ‘Sand Country’, and amble past kangaroo and emu a pit stop at Kings Creek Station. Located 36 kilometres enclosures in the ‘Woodland’ area. from Watarrka National Park, visitors to this working cattle Travelbag offers a 2 day Kakadu National Park & East Aligator River trip, Adventure seekers with longer to spend in Alice can hop on and camel station can sign up for a quick five minutes in the Ghan train from Darwin to Alice Springs, 3 day Red Centre experience a bike and ride out to Simpsons Gap, survey the MacDonnell saddle or a full station tour by camel back. Head out after a and 3 nights 3* Travelodge Mirambeena Resort Darwin from £2,469pp Ranges from a helicopter or hot air balloon and experience a hearty bushman’s breakfast or in time to catch the sunset over including return international flights. working cattle station on a quad bike safari. the spectacular George Gill Range. Call 0844 846 8992 for details or visit your local Travelbag shop. Florence Falls, Litchfield National Park

130 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 131 Advertisement Feature ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Book Your Tailor-Made Alice Springs Cricket Experience Why not combine a tailor-made Travelbag holiday to Alice Springs and beyond with a trip on the cricket on November 29-30?

Surrounded by a red sand desert which stretches for hundreds of Today, the town’s upmarket hotels, restaurants, and 25,000 Not The Ashes kilometres in all directions, Alice Springs is one of Australia’s most inhabitants, continue to uphold its vibrant history. It’s also an famous outback towns. It is the gateway to the iconic natural excellent place to pick up an authentic piece of unique Aboriginal features of Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta National Park. art. Here, stories of Australia’s history and heritage are told through a From here, you can join one of Australia’s most challenging colourful cast of characters and events that include camel races, walks, the Larapinta Trail; and it is the ideal place to connect with But Alice Springs! gold-diggers and outback pioneers. Australia’s rich Aboriginal traditions and awe-inspiring landscapes. Alice Springs lies in the physical and spiritual heart of Australia’s Australia’s classic outback drive, the Red Centre Way, from Alice Red Centre. It is surrounded on all sides by the jagged MacDonnell Springs to Kings Canyon, is one of the best ways to experience the An Australian XI will play England in the remote outback town of Alice Ranges, which according to the traditional owners, the Arrernte natural wonders of this vast ancient red landscape. Springs during what is expected to be hotly contested Ashes tour. people, was formed during the Dreamtime by giant caterpillars. The England squad will travel into the Northern Territory after The Royal Geographic Society of Australia has calculated the Contact a Travelbag Australia expert who will tailor-make a trip to NT and Alice Springs. Call 0844 846 8992 for the November 21-25 first Test in Brisbane and play the Australian geographical and gravitational centre of the continent at the details or visit your local Travelbag shop. Chairman’s XI on November 29-30 and then fly to Adelaide to prepare Lambert Centre, approximately 200 kilometres south of town. for the second Test starting December 5. The Ashes is one of the biggest events in Australian sport and for Alice Springs to have a slice of the action in between the first and second Tests of this highly anticipated series is incredibly exciting. The match in Alice Springs, which has a population of around 25,000, is one of five non-Test tour matches on England’s Ashes tour, which starts against a Western Australia XI at Perth on October 31. The town last hosted an international team in 2000, when the West Indies took on a local provincial team.

Tickets for the game will be available at the gate with a portion of the proceeds going towards the development of cricket in the Northern Territory. advertisement FEATURE The Blue Train Experience Pre-departure lounges Elegant lounges Luxury takes on a new dimension with The Blue Train. The elegant lounge car with its large windows allows You’ll feel it the moment you step on board in for panoramic views of the passing countryside. The Pretoria or Cape Town. interior, resplendent with original works of South African A warm-hearted welcome begins a journey that is de- art adorning the walls, plush and comfortable couches fined by personal attention and devotion to detail. and bouquets of flame lilies complementing the plush The Blue Train An hour before the train departs, you are ushered into a décor, makes the lounge car the ideal setting for sharing an world which is made effortless by the ease of checking in. apéritif with fellow guests, an interlude between meals, or In the Tracks of a Legend Enjoy a welcoming cocktail and appetising delicacy served after-dinner conversation over coffee. from a butler’s silver tray while your luggage is labelled and As an added treat, indulge in the English ritual of high Southern Africa has always attracted whisked away. The stage is set; step on board and settle tea, served every afternoon at your leisure. The club car into your private suite. The experience is about to begin. has the relaxed atmosphere of a gentlemen’s club, with adventurous and romantic souls – discerning Suites card tables, a small library and a fully-equipped bar. Guests The Blue Train is the ultimate definition of luxury in can watch a short film about the train’s route or enjoy a travellers who crossed the land in as much motion. You’ll note it from the moment you step into Cuban cigar and cognac before retiring for the night. your suite, which is transformed from an elegant, spacious Fine dining comfort as possible. But it was not until lounge by day into a sanctuary of comfort at night. All the The Blue Train experience is a banquet for all the senses 1923, when the first deluxe train was suites are equipped with 100% percale cotton linen, goose and this is especially true of our dining car. 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The and ostrich fillet to Knysna oysters accompanied by award- as ‘that Blue Train’ and so…..a legend was luxury suite also boasts a selection of compact discs and winning cultivars from the Cape winelands, all serving as movies on DVD. the perfect complement to the landscape through which born. The deluxe suites offer a choice between twin beds with you are travelling. Prepared from the freshest produce and a shower or double beds with a bath. ingredients, artfully presented in the finest tradition,The Observation carriage Personal service Blue Train’s legendary cuisine is an irresistible tribute to Personal service of the highest calibre is standard on The culinary mastery. Blue Train. As a guest, you will have a dedicated butler at The Blue Train offers far more than just a journey. It your beck and call to ensure an unforgettable experience. A is an all-inclusive offering which has a combination of late-night snack? An early morning wake-up call? A dinner unsurpassed luxury travel, five star accommodation, fine jacket in need of a little tender care? All this is a telephone cuisine, superior personalized service and a route that of- call away. Your butler is waiting and ready. fers breathtaking views of the countryside. Journey Across South Africa

Pretoria - Cape Town – Pretoria The route between Pretoria and Cape Town is a 27-hour On the Northbound journey, the train leaves Cape Town journey of 1,600 kilometres (994 miles), through some of at 08:30 and arrives in Pretoria at 12:00, the following day. the most diverse and spectacular scenery offered by the The train stops at Matjiesfontein for an off-the-train African sub-continent. excursion where guests are invited for a glass of sherry in On the Southbound trip, the train departs from Pretoria the historic Lord Milner Hotel and have the opportunity main train station at 8:30 and arrives in Cape Town train to visit the museums. The Victorian buildings and original station at 12:00 the following day. nineteenth century London lampposts impart to the travel- En route to Cape Town there is a stopover and excursion ler, the uncanny sense of entering a colonial time warp – in Kimberley, where you will take a step back in time to the an oasis suspended in a different age. days of the diamond rush.

A deluxe suite on The Blue Train costs from £799pppn. Contact a Travelbag South Africa expert who will tailor-make a personalised itinerary to include a stay on this iconic locomotive. Call 0844 846 8992 for details or visit your local Travelbag shop.

134 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 135 Kenya Since the late 19th century Kenya has always been synonymous with the classic safari experience and hand-in-hand with safaris is the 4x4 safari vehicle. Although many may think this is the only way to explore Kenya’s landscape from the great open plains to the dense bush lands, there are a variety of other options which provide a unique experience all of their own. By Evelyn Wright

In northern Laikipia, directly above Nairobi, is a 61,000 Camel riding is not just for the Sahara Desert, Laikipia acre private ranch and on a gorge within this region sits a is African camel country and is an ideal place for a camel magical African hideaway called Loisaba. The property stroll. The Loisaba owners have created a camel farm consists of a seven room lodge, the main house which has which produces milk for the region, but for a change of two rooms, the cottage with three rooms, and the fairy- pace guests can also take a guided camel ride. Camels are AFRICAN tale Starbeds. All rooms of the main properties overlook a a lot slower than horseback so this is more of a way to take watering hole which is often occupied by communities of in the stunning scenery and enjoy bird spotting than for an wildlife escaping the intense dry heat and frolicking in the adrenaline rush. An hour ride is also recommended as they cooling waters. can be rather sore on the backside. The area is home to all the main African species but what For those that fancy getting their feet wet, canoeing safaris makes Laikipia particularly different to other areas of Kenya along the Ewaso Ngiro River are an exciting way to spot is the variety of ways to experience this. Loisaba works with animals drinking at the water’s edge and playing in the the local communities to provide guests with alternatives to canopies overhead. Apparently crocodiles don’t come down ADVENTURES the standard 4x4 safari experiences, including horseback, this far as the current is too fast but a couple of kilometres camelback, canoeing and mountain biking. upstream over five metre long crocodiles are common Horseback safaris enable guests to get up close to the inhabitants so best keep limbs tucked inside the boat and wildlife for a more intimate experience, and no matter what save the swimming for back at the lodge, although the native level the rider is at, the local instructors will work with guests people do enjoy a leisurely dip. to ensure the horse and trail is matched accordingly. From To really get the heart pumping jump on one of the an hour to all day safaris, riding through huge herds of mountain bikes available - this is the most extreme version wildebeest and zebra to tracking elephants and lions, guests of the classic Kenya safari. A great way to burn off all the can venture off the vehicle tracks to really be immersed over indulgent food served at Loisaba and get the body amongst the game – but it does take a bit of perseverance moving again, but it is hard work in the heat, so best to do and patience. The area is very dense with shrubbery and this at sunrise or sunset. Each trip can be tailored to specific trees so riders do need to work harder to spot animals but requirements, whether guests are a relative newcomer to the when they do, it is extremely rewarding. sport or an experienced rider looking for a new challenge.

136 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 137 Kenya Kenya But after all the adrenaline excitement don’t say goodbye Continue with the adrenaline adventure theme by taking without a night in the Starbeds - an adrenaline experience a horseback ride along Diani Beach, the complete opposite OTHER OPTIONS all of its own. Located away from the main lodge and house, to the terrain of Laikipia, there isn’t much game to spot the Starbeds are remote tree-house like structures dotted but instead stunning beach landscapes and plenty of soul along the riverbed and only accessible via a canoe across warming sunshine to soak up. Dismount and stop off at the Rock Climbing Scuba Diving a murky rapid river, this is when it pays not to have a large Almanara Beach restaurant for a relaxing bite, entrees are The impressively stark massif of Ol Olokwe, 30 kilome- South of Mombasa, scuba diving sites range along the bulky suitcase! around 700 KES (approx £5) and a main is around 1200 tres north of Samburu Reserve, has some excellent climbing coast between Tiwi to Shimoni. The Kisite Mpunguti The Kiboko Starbeds have two platforms each with their KES (approx £10) or for a treat try the seafood platter. routes. The summit is located at 1,853 metres and visitors Marine Reserve covers 39 square kilometres of ocean and own Starbed and Koija Starbeds have three platforms. For a comfortable but more affordable option try Papillon are advised to hire a knowledgeable local guide before has some of the best dive sites on the coast including the The beds are on large wagon type wheels and on clear Lagoon Reef, also located on Diani Beach the property is a ascending. Nyali Reef, a coral reef dive with tidal currents and Kisite nights (which are more often than not) the beds are rolled larger resort style but offers guests all-inclusive or half board Point, a 12 metre dive ideal for an encounter with bottlenose out to watch Mother Nature in one of her most striking packages. Upgrades to beach front rooms are also available White Water Rafting dolphins and hawksbill turtles and perhaps even a Whale performances - the sky is dotted with diamonds shimmering and well worth it for the view and added extras in the room. The Tana River is located 95 kilometres outside of the Shark. and dancing whilst the surrounding wildlife provides a Papillon Lagoon Reef offer adventure excursions such capital city of Nairobi and is one of the main white water backing soundtrack to send even the most insomniac person as snorkelling day trips and overnight safaris to Tsavo East rafting rivers in the country. Individuals looking for a thrill Kite Surfing off to sleep. National Park. Although a fairly long and bumpy ride, Tsavo will enjoy a full day of rafting through a combination of In the pretty resort of Nyali Beach, Pro Surf Extreme Unfortunately all good things must come to an end but East with its dry and barren land is an interesting contrast class two to five white water rapids and relaxing river drifts. offers visitors the ultimate beach sport – kite surfing. With to keep the holiday dream alive longer twin centre the trip to experience. The game is often much easier to spot as perfect conditions for the sport and a stunning backdrop, with a stay at Kinondo Kwetu. Situated on the south coast they huddle together under the shelter of sporadic trees Windsurfing combined with the warm Indian Ocean waters, where better of Kenya, one and a half hour’s drive south from Mombasa to escape the scorching African sun. Ngutuni Lodge is a Kenya’s vast Indian Ocean coastline receives steady south- to hone skills or try it out for the first time. and nestled on the shore of the Indian Ocean is this stylish very comfortable accommodation option plus meals can be easterly trade winds which prevail throughout the year and boutique property. enjoyed whilst overlooking a waterhole, a popular drinking offer perfect conditions for windsurfing. Mount Kenya Trek Run by a Swedish family who share the same passion for and social spot for many of the locals! Bring a new angle to a holiday by climbing Mount Kenya, exquisite African hospitality as Loisaba, the property has a The traditional 4x4 safari is a thing of the past and with Deep-sea Fishing Africa’s second highest mountain. Find the strength of will maximum capacity of 38 guests, so there is always a spot to safari alternatives including horseback, camelback, canoeing Along the coast of the Indian Ocean by the ancient town and self confidence as the journey begins at the bottom of hide away from the world and relax, or people to chew the and mountain biking, Kenya provides even more ways to get of Malindi lies the sailfish capital of the world. The fish-rich this magnificent mountain and works its way up to Lenana fat with. visitors up close to the great African dream. waters are home to blue marlin, tuna, snapper, wahoo, Point. Take in the breathtaking views of the Kenyan plains 1000-pound sharks and numerous other species of game and watch as the animals roam free below. This once in a Starbed fish. lifetime experience will leave an imprint forever.

HINTS Contact a Travelbag Kenya expert who will tailor-make • Print off the bird and animal tick list to record sightings your African adventure. Kenya Airways operates daily • Take Kenyan Shillings for snacks and water along the way overnight flights from Terminal 4 London Heathrow to • Take binoculars to help spot hidden game Nairobi. Safarilink offers daily flights to all the major • Wear long light clothing, also bugs are attracted to bright colours so game parks in Kenya. For more information on Kenya avoid these visit www.magicalkenya.com • Carry a warm jumper as it gets cool in the evenings and mornings Call 0844 846 8992 for details or visit your local • For an extra special evening experience bush dinner in Loisaba Travelbag shop.

138 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 139 Banff National Park

They seem to come towards you like a grey armoured, white helmeted invincible army stretching across the horizon. I had just left and was with a group in a mini bus driving across the prairie along the Trans Canada highway to spend a few days in the located in the Province of Alberta. Peter Morrell is entranced by the majesty of the In under an hour we were passing through the entrance to Banff National Park and by now feel- mountains and the unforgettable adventures in the ing more than a little awestruck by the towering peaks that now surround us. We were in the Bow Valley, which allowed the coast-to-coast railway, connecting Eastern and Western Canada to be built Canadian Rockies. www.aboutmygeneration.com and is also a haven for abundant wildlife.

140 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 141 Alberta Alberta Winding our way up hairpin Pacific Railway. For the first time visitors could quickly and bends we arrived at our comfortably travel to the Rockies to enjoy the incredible Banff home for the next two days, views, and wildlife and with great foresight the railway the Buffalo Mountain Lodge just outside Banff. The main company built hotels where travellers could stay. lodge is an impressive timber built structure with a soaring This huge building is in Scottish Baronial style, it is ceiling, restaurant, bar and comfortable chairs arranged a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known as the around a large hearth. The bedrooms are in groups of log “Castle in the Rockies”. The hotel sits at the Bow Falls, a cabins dotted around the grounds. Walking over to my room raging torrent of water and the rooms look out towards the air was crisp and clean and heavy with the scent of pine the stratified Mount Rundle. All the past ghosts in the and the views are breathtaking. Wherever you looked there hotel came alive when we were given a tour by the resident was a picture just waiting to be taken. historian, David Moberg who has been at the hotel for an The accommodation was rustic but luxurious: a huge, almost unbelievable 50 years. We are regaled with stories comfortable bed, a well appointed bathroom and leather of film stars, royalty and politicians; this really is the Grand chairs in front of a fireplace stacked with logs just waiting to Dame of the hotel world. be lit. A quick change of clothes and we were off to Banff Behind the hotel are the Banff Upper Hot Springs where Avenue, the main street in the town, dominated at both ends you can luxuriate in the outdoor pool, which is kept at by huge mountains. It’s a sophisticated place to stay with 100°F, while enjoying the panoramic view. The springs come boutiques, bars, craft breweries and restaurants offering well from a fault in Sulphur Mountain which you can get to the priced, good quality food. top of and beyond on the Banff Gondola. This will whisk Our first full day was packed with interest starting with you up more than 2000 feet in eight minutes to what must a visit to the Banff canoeing centre, just a five minute stroll be one of the most spectacular views in the region. And from the town. Our launching point had, earlier in the when you are at the top you can use the aerial walkway to On my last day I set out to explore morning, been used as the crossing for a brown bear and reach the historic Sanson’s Peak Meteorological Station for Calgary. By this time the mountains her two cubs. Paddling up the Bow River watching deer on yet more stunning mountainscapes. Calgary had created some sort of visual the banks and with a distant range of peaks ahead one was Banff had given us a whole range of unforgettable addiction that’s hard to define and our bus was very quiet as we let them slip away suddenly struck with the sheer, awesome beauty of Canada. experiences but it was time to move on. Our next port of into the distance but with the excitement of the big city still ahead of us. The Bow at Banff was the location for the 1954 Robert call was Lake Louise less than an hour’s drive away. We Calgary is young and vibrant, made rich by oil, cattle and wheat. We did a Mitchum / Marilyn Monroe film River of No Return could have taken the Trans Canada highway but chose the quick tour of the downtown area and discovered a bustling pedestrian area lined and our next destination was where both the stars stayed more leisurely Bow Valley Parkway with picnic areas and lots with restaurants and shops, a tram system and 10 miles of walkways with 59 while on location. The Banff Springs Hotel is one of of interest, from sightings of Bighorn sheep to nesting birds bridges, called Plus 15, because the bridges are at least 15 feet off the ground it the by- products from the construction of the Canadian of prey. enable the residents to move around from building to building in comfort during the winter months. Not a problem for us as it was comfortably over 70°F. We headed off to Prince’s Island Park which has been formed by two channels shuttle bus across the valley to the Lake Louise ski resort. On of the Bow River and discovered the charming River Cafe serving an excellent the way over the driver stopped the bus to give me a glimpse lunch al fresco. Although I could have sat on the terrace all afternoon there was Lake Louise of a grizzly bear with her two offspring, another unexpected more to see, the Calgary Tower beckoned. At 1228 metres above sea level it is the Just short of our destination we took a detour up to Lake surprise. Hopping in a gondola I was soon at the top of the world’s highest observation deck and one level down a very good restaurant. Moraine, which lies within the Valley of the Ten Peaks, ski runs with the world laid at my feet and feeling quite dizzy Its position really puts the city into context with a clear view of the stadium the turquoise water reflecting the mountain range is a trying to take in the size and beauty of the vista. used for the annual Calgary Stampede. This century old festival and rodeo sight that no photograph can fully do justice. Arriving in On the other side of the valley I could see the world features chuck wagon racing, parades and entertainment. It attracts more than a Lake Louise we settled in to our hotel, the Deer Lodge, famous Chateau Lake Louise Hotel, originally another million visitors a year, including our very own Kate and William, who attended which, like our hotel in Banff, is owned by Canadian Rocky Canadian Pacific Railway property, since re-built and now in 2011. The part of the observation deck not recommended for vertigo sufferers Mountain Resorts. However this hotel had an entirely run by Fairmont hotels. This was my next place to visit is the glass floor around the edge that gives you a look down the outside of the different character, contained in one building, it was full for their legendary afternoon tea. The Chateau is pure, tower. Looking out to the West, on the distant horizon, was that grey stone army of old-fashioned rustic charm. Evolving from its origins in unashamed luxury and elegance. Making my way to the that I had come to love during my four days in the Rockies. 1923 as a log built tea room with limited accommodation, restaurant, past the resident harpist in the lobby, I settled After couple of hours rest in the very stylish Hotel Arts it was time for the it was a comfortable place to stay and a few minutes stroll into a seat by the huge window that looked down the lake. direct flight back to London. But one can’t leave Canada without mentioning the from the shore of the lake. Mid afternoon saw our party on Sipping on a glass of prosecco and nibbling a smoked Canadians, who are the most friendly and hospitable people that you could ever a great adventure. We were a few minutes away from the salmon sandwich the beauty of the lake, the broken ice, the wish to meet and add greatly to the visitor experience. Brewster Stables so the more intrepid amongst us saddled deep blue patches of water, the snow covered mountains I was sad to leave the Rockies, they kept on producing one surprise after up for a horse ride which was parallel to the lake but up into and the distant Victoria glacier cast a magical spell of another and I had explored a mere fraction of them. The adventures and the the mountains. Jeff, my sure-footed steed, made light work wonderment. This segment of the trip was also turning into views have a hypnotic allure that you can only really appreciate by going there. of the climb up the trail that was covered in snow and ice. a culinary adventure as back at Deer Lodge that evening we The journey to the end of the lake and back took about sampled some genuine . The leader two hours and on the way back nature laid on a memorable in the development of this style is Canadian Rocky spectacle for us. It was early June and the thaw was in full Mountain Resort’s executive Chef Alistair Barnes, a native swing; suddenly from across the lake a series of cracks that of the Channel Islands who has been with the company sounded like gunfire preceded an avalanche and we stopped since 1985. Game, cured meats and fresh local ingredients the horses to watch tons of ice crashed hundreds of feet into all feature heavily on the menu and they are delicious. This Travelbag’s 8 day Canadian Rockies escorted tour costs from £1,299pp the water, an unforgettable moment. and the excellent food we had eaten in the old Lake Louise including return international flights. On my second day in Lake Louise while my fellow Railway Station the night before suggested the area was Call 0844 846 8992 for details or visit your local Travelbag shop. travellers went hiking in the mountains I caught the regular something of a foodie’s paradise. Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

142 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 143

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144 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 145 ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE Holland America Line’s sixty seven years of experience in Alaska travel means you can be assured of experiencing this spectacular part of the world in the most scenic and comfortable way. You may even choose to combine your Alaskan adventure with the spectacular Rockies and the Rocky Mountaineer experience for that perfect scenic holiday. See Alaska with the Experts Elegent mid-sized ships Cruise Alaska’s stunning coastline Onboard the mid-sized ms Volendam or ms Zuiderdam From Vancouver, cruise past the evergreen forests and you’ll enjoy elegant lounges adorned with priceless antiques Indian fishing villages of Alaska’s coastal waterway. Be and fresh flowers… dining rooms that sparkle with crystal amazed as the jagged peaks of Tracy Arm and Sawyer and fine china… delicious dining and award-winning Glacier emerge on your way to Alaska’s capital, Juneau, service, and above all gracious hospitality. There are picture where you’ll see your first glacier, the mighty Mendenhall. windows and teak promenades from which to view the Here you may also opt to go salmon fishing, or take a scenic emerald forests and spell binding glaciers of Alaska’s Inside boat ride. Passage, perhaps even a glimpse of orca whales and sea lions Once turbulent staging point for gold prospectors swimming in the wake of your ship. During your cruise you hell-bent on getting to the Klondike, you can now stroll may learn a new skill – enjoy a cookery demonstrations or weathered boardwalks and drop in at old-time saloons at tastings at the ship’s Culinary Arts Theatre, take a free class Skagway, or even ride the vintage cars of the White Pass and at the Digital Workshops, led by Microsoft, enjoy lectures on Yukon Railroad. your fascinating destinations – or relax at the Asian-themed Possibly the highlight of your cruise will be a full day Greenhouse Spa and Salon. spent cruising Glacier Bay National Park. From your ship The beautiful garden theme of the 1,432-guest ms you have a front view of the spires, pinnacles and pillars of Volendam is reflected in an artful floral motif detailed in ice, surrounded by an immense quiet, broken only by the the sumptuous fabrics through to grand bouquets of fresh muffled thunder of icebergs being born. flowers, and this elegant hotel at sea blends the latest in Your next call is Ketchikan - a quaint weathered town shipbuilding technology with the personal touches and clinging to the mountainside offering a park full of mystical superior service that has made Holland America Line one totem poles and float plane and helicopter excursions to the of the highest rated cruise lines in the world. The ship also stunning “Misty Fjords”. features priceless paintings and sculptures including pre- On your travels you’ll glimpse the breeching of great Columbian sculptures and Renaissance-era fountains. hump-back whales in the wake of your ship; seals basking on Onboard the 1,916-guest ms Zuiderdam, offering five glacial icebergs. Watch majestic bald headed eagles soaring decks of staterooms with private balcony, the city of Venice overhead and see sock-eyed salmon turning rivers red. is depicted in murals, maps, glass panels, busts of doges, sculptures of la commedia del arte and more, while also boasting a fine collection of ship models, antique maps and navigational charts, and treasures from around the world. Both ships feature an open air pool which transforms into an indoor swimming and leisure area at the flick of a switch, and a teak promenade deck, perfect for strolling or enjoying the scenery. An elegant dining room offers sea-views on three sides, while other choices include the award-winning more informal lido and intimate reservations-only “Pinnacle Grill”. Glacier Bay National Park Travelling by rail, road, river and sea, this is the journey of a lifetime … through a landscape that is Tour the Majestic Canadian Rockies timeless. We enter the world of whales and grizzly Step aboard the Rocky Mountaineer train for an adventure into the unknown, travelling through bears, otters and sea lions, caribou, moose and spectacular mountains, fjords and lakes to the city of Vancouver. The perfect way to explore the Canadian Rockies, Travelbag’s specialist Cruise Consultants will menacing bald eagles. Our breathtaking backdrop is tailor-make your dream Alaskan Adventure by rail & sea. ice-age fjords, soaring mountains and mile upon mile An 8-night Holland America Line Alaska Cruise & Stay package including flights starts from just £1,599pp this summer. Tailor-made Rocky Mountaineer Rail & Sea of the wildest wilderness. This is nature untamed holidays start from just £2,299pp. To find out more or to book, call 0844 846 8992 or and unforgettable! visit your local Travelbag shop.

146 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 147 4 Escape 148 A glaciers andthelongeststretchofcoastlineinUnited largest areaofnationalparklands, thehighestconcentration of A who cametoseektheirfortunes. the firstIce bears imprintsofeverygroupthathasmade A Find Your Alaska people whosettledherethousandsofyearsago laska isaplaceofmagnificence, butit’s not beyondyourreach. laska -it’s amazinglydifferent, withthetallestmountains, the laska’s intriguinghistoryiscloselyintertwinedwiththatofthe A ge nomadsto R ussian furtraders tothegoldminers A laska itshome, from . Their diverseculture S tates. Hemera Alaska’s culture andhistory. and venues for part of to experience Alaskavisitors anintegral dance to beautiful Native art, there are many opportunities tradition for cominggenerations. From traditional music and cultural threads andspiritual beliefs, preserving the giftsof people interweave today’s lifestyle with their own modern Alaska’s population. indigenous These almost 16percent of identity. society,adapt to modern yet still maintain avibrant traditional provides into Native an immersion cultures that continue to acres neardowntown26 tranquil, wilderness Anchorage and cultural centre and‘living’museum, the centre issituated on Native Heritage Centre isnot to be missed.Arenowned Alaska’s 11native cultures, the Alaska of traditions andhistory domed churches with icons. gleaming onion- in towering totem poles. Russian of left alegacy settlers HaidaandTsimshianTlingit, Indianswhose isreflected history with majestic forests.carpeted Inside Passage Alaskaishome to bald eagles, andwhales. sea lions, porpoises Its mountains are boasts wildlife-filled fjords –habitat andlushislandscenery for years ago, Alaska’s Inside Passage massive millionsof glaciers through about the area’s its doors natural andcultural history. Athabascan culture, languages and educates allwho pass Centre isacommunity centrepiece that celebrates the Alaskan Haines, Sitka andother communities inAlaska. Centre –orview traditional style clanhouses inWrangell, the Iñupiat Heritage tour to Barrow willtake you to the site of famous totem exhibits inKetchikan. Goonaguided tour –a Kodiak, the Kenai Visitors andCultural Centre inKenai orthe Cultural Centres AlaskaNativeLife Southcentral Interior InsidePassage shimmer brilliantly, beckoning to prospective anglers. but islinked viaroads. World-class rainbow trout andsalmon remote wilderness, lakes, the advantages of Southcentral offers fishing to hikingandwildlife viewing. With mountains and activities from world-class Southcentral aplayground is of n u rpesltrdsoee h ihso this region. laterand furtrappers discovered the riches of Alaska’s Athabascan Indians. Goldminers, farmers home of to andfrom Anchorage andFairbanks. Interior isthe original highway that runsby Denali National Park, visitors carrying sun orthe winter’s lights. Wildlife northern canbe seen onthe bird, the Willow Experience summer’s midnight Ptarmigan. caribouto the state to stately herds grizzly of the formidable forests are teeming with wildlife andbird life rangingfrom tallest peak, Mt. McKinley, tundra. The andwide expanses of CultureIn Fairbanks, Cultural andVisitors Thompson the Morris Visit the Alutiiq Museum andArchaeological Repository in Regions In Alaska’s heartland, you’ll see the continent’s

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Today, AlaskaNatives comprise To book call0844846 8992 mountain ranges. wildlife andalandscape rangingfrom coastal plainsto Alaska’s most diverse regions, filled with cultural opportunities, Fairbanks orAnchorage viajet orsmallaircraft. isone of This the Arctic National Park andPreserve.yore to the Gates of rich andnatural history wonders, from the goldrushdays of from generation to generation. Far The a North isfilled with live asubsistence lifestyle andstill preserve verbally their history Alaska’s Arctic ishome to the Inupiat Eskimos, many who still knowletting passengers they’ve crossed circle. the legendary legend hasit that many pilotsgive the plane aslight “bump” Alaska every year. travellers taking the Ultimate North American Road Tripof to road duringWorld War II,thishighway now hosts thousands 70.Built asasupply also known asthe ALCAN –just turned its glaciers. or landonone of mountain. You canflyaround the mountain with a‘Bush’pilot people have travelled north to see the majestic days, millionsof andRobertHarper G. Tatum inJune 1913.Since those early successful ascent by Karstens, Walter HudsonStuck, Harry the first McKinley - celebrates the 100th anniversary of Happy Anniversary HappyAnniversary Far North Southwest experience.gateway to the wilderness Southcentral the has amenities travellers seek, while serving asa year andsee why Alaskawassoworth it. stateThe celebrates AlaskaDay every October 18th - come this 150th anniversary celebration in2017,but don’t wait until then. more about the state’sand learn history. Alaskaisplanning its Anchorage in1915,there’s achance for you to jointhe party of the city Mount McKinley in1913tothe founding of ascent of Russia in1867to the first Alaska from the purchase of holiday destination. From made Alaskaanunforgettable shaped the ‘LastFrontier’ and milestones markThese what anniversaries inits history. willcelebrateAlaska key Over the next fewyears, mile sweep toward Asia. volcano, tothe windswept Aleutian that Islands make a1,000- the Novarupta National Park created by the 1912eruption of volcanoes inKatmai ranges fromterrain alandscape of 240 bird species inhabit Alaska’s Southwest region. region’s The Brown amble bears alongthe hillsandplains, andmore than Southwest Alaska. on earth compare with the wonders of h omnte fAlaska’s Far North are accessible from communitiesThe of The roadThe leading to Alaska–the famed AlaskaHighway, the state’s most iconicsites - 20,320foot Mount One of As Alaska’sAs cross visitors the Arctic Circle, For those with anaturalist streak, few places

Escape 149 Even if you don’t have a lot of outdoor experience, WhatShopping, better way to commemorate Dininga trip to Alaska than & worldShows and can be sampled just about anywhere in the day excursions and guided tours allow you to discover with a unique souvenir or collectible? Handcrafted pieces state. More and more restaurants are joining the local food true Alaska wilderness during the day and sleep in a such as authentic Alaska native moccasins, baskets, movement in Alaska by featuring locally sourced produce, comfortable bed at night. For the seasoned outdoor jewellery, carvings and both traditional and modern seafood and game in their menus. The Alaska Grown expert, Alaska is teeming with the opportunities for art pieces make great gifts, and are available at retail program’s recognisable brand helps to alert consumers the rugged, backcountry treks. Whether you prefer stores, museum gift shops, galleries and farmers markets that products are grown nearby. to hike on an ice age glacier, skim the wilderness in a throughout Alaska. To ensure pieces are genuine, look for In addition to the local food scene, Alaska boasts a “bush” plane or take a dog sled ride, you’ll find plenty the ‘Silver Hand’ or ‘Made in Alaska’ emblems that signify thriving beer culture. Ranked fifth in the nation for of options to experience the Alaska you’ve always the product was made locally. breweries per capita in 2009, visitors can taste handcrafted dreamed about. The state’s many famous rivers, Alaska’s restaurants and nightlife offer a true taste of brews at a growing number of breweries and brewpubs lakes and protected coastal waters offer the chance the Last Frontier. Wild Alaska seafood including salmon, statewide. Additional beer-centric activities include to experience rafting, kayaking or jet boat rides from halibut and king crab attract visitors from all over the brewery tours, festivals and special events. Cheers! mild to wild. No matter what your interest, you’re sure to find some adventures tailor-made for you. Ecotourism is responsible travel to natural areas while preserving the environment and improving the

Adventure well-being of local people. Alaska is the prime year- round destination for visitors seeking a more personal connection with nature, culture and wilderness. Ecotourism means you leave little or no impact during your visit so that future visitors can enjoy the same beauty and quality experience of Alaska’s special Wildlife Viewing places. Using established paths rather than disturbing A magnificent grizzly roaming an untamed landscape, Consider a sightseeing trip for a bird’s eye vegetation, limiting campfires and being careful not to great herds of caribou migrating across the tundra, view of wildlife beyond the road system or visit the litter are all highly recommended. millions of salmon spawning up rivers and the haunting Alaska Wildlife Conservation Centre in Portage, the cries of sandhill cranes streaming overhead: these Alaska SeaLife Centre in Seward, or the Alaska Zoo in and many other wildlife-viewing opportunities await you Anchorage for a closer look. in Alaska. Wildlife viewing takes on a whole new dimension Cooper Landing Join a guided tour through a national or state park to in winter, when animals are easier to see against a backdrop look for bear, caribou or moose, or take a day cruise to of white snow. Early winter draws more than 3,000 bald spot puffins, sea otters, and humpback and killer whales. eagles to feed on salmon at the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve Even a leisurely stroll along one of Alaska’s many trails near Haines. Moose, fox and various species of birds can can offer a chance to see wildlife, whether it’s Dall sheep also be spotted more easily. While viewing opportunities kicking up their heels along a rock face or a bald eagle abound, one thing is for sure: no matter which path you Alaska is full of outdoor adventures. soaring high above. choose, you’ll remember it for a lifetime. Picnic near an Ice Age glacier or raft a raging river. Experience gold rush Backcountry excitement aboard a sternwheeler Fairbanks or try your hand fishing for Alaska’s world-class halibut and salmon. Take & Hiking AlaskansWinter don’t hibernate likeActivities bears; winter is when the fun a ‘flight-seeing’ trip over some of the begins and you’re officially invited! Whether you desire endless most breathtaking mountains in North white solitude or endless activities and events, Alaska has it all - America or drive for miles beside a from wildlife to nightlife. turquoise glacier-fed river. Winter visitors may be surprised to find out that they are as Alaska has some of the most tough as most Alaskans: It’s neither as dark nor as cold as you incredible scenery to be found in the might expect. Winter brings 6-13 hours of daylight, depending . In order to enjoy all on where you are, sandwiched between a ton of twilight on Alaska has to offer, visitors must get out one end and endless dawns on the other. And with average and experience it for themselves. temperatures around 20°F, winter enthusiasts can enjoy Alaska With an amazing trail system in complete comfort. Alaska starts rapidly gaining daylight in that snakes through most major the early spring, and with dozens of festivals and events taking communities, Alaska has a routs for all place in late February and March, this makes the perfect time to abilities – from accessible nature paths experience winter in Alaska and get a feel for what it’s really like to mountain hikes that are physically in their most defining season. challenging. Cyclists, joggers and What you’ll find is that Alaskans embrace winter, both by Alaska’s most popular and iconic winter experiences include walkers will discover endless possibilities taking part in boundless outdoor adventure opportunities and dog-mushing, northern lights viewing, snowboarding and skiing at their feet. Long-distance riders can arts and cultural events that showcase the creativity and sense (Nordic and alpine), snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and sports use the highways – which vary in road of community that define Alaskas’snorthern lifestyle. Several and cultural events. Combine that with fantastic, locally owned surface and shoulder width. major winter events bring visitors from around the world to restaurants, museums and cultural centers, shopping and locally Alaska, so there’s plenty to do and see and prices are often crafted beer and other spirits and you’ve got a recipe for an lower than in the busier summer months. incomparable winter experience.

150 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 151 Advertisement Feature ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

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The Wilds of Alaska Await Why travel with Celebrity Cruises® Nature lovers will be in their element The variety of restaurants, bars, cafés and at Ketchikan Creek and Falls. Celebrity activities is unsurpassed. Each venue offers a Cruises® take you through timber houses different feel and a real sense of occasion – perched over the water and salmon leap the perfect remedy to the hustle and bustle upstream in the clear, cool water. In the of everyday life. near-unspoilt Alaskan wilderness in the There is something for everyone on board surrounding mountains, you might catch these stunning ships, from activities to sight of a moose or nesting eagle. get your pulse racing to some of the most Icy Strait Point is the prime place in the area relaxing spa treatments you will ever to watch the incredible humpback whale experience. Whether you want to get when you’re on your Alaska cruise. Those involved or just escape, your cruise with who look hard enough will see one of Celebrity is truly whatever you make it. these majestic sea mammoths breaking the There is a chance you may never want to set surface of the Alaskan waters. out on land again!

An 8-night Celebrity Cruises® Alaska Cruise & Stay package including flights starts from just £1,399pp this summer. To find out more or to book, simply call 0844 846 8992 or visit your local Travelbag shop.

152 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 153 Getting Around Alaska Fishing Once in Alaska, you can get around in a variety of ways. Alaska offers some of the most spectacular fly-fishing, saltwater Keep your personal travel style in mind. Consider a Van & Bus Travel A number of tour companies - both fishing, freshwater fishing and even ice fishing in the world. It package tour if you prefer leaving the details to someone large and small - provide transportation for visitors throughout can be as easy as pulling off the side of the road and casting a else. Or you might prefer to travel independently, exploring the summer. With this option, you don’t need to worry about line. Or you can charter a boat or float plane to whisk you off Alaska at your own pace. logistics or mapping out your route, and you are free to relax to a secluded fishing hole where you can reel in one of the more and enjoy the view. You can choose from point-to-point than 627 species that inhabit the Alaskan waters. With over 3 Driving Alaska has more scenic highways than any transportation or multi-day, all-inclusive tours. million lakes, 3,000 rivers and countless fish-filled streams, you other state in America, which you can see for yourself by can see the challenge isn’t catching fish, but deciding what kind driving. You can rent a car or campervan and cover much of Air Taxis & Charters Scheduled air taxi and air to catch and where! Alaska’s road system. You’ll find that four-wheel drive is not charter services provide access to small communities and necessary to get around and that it’s difficult to get lost when remote destinations via propeller-driven ‘Bush’ planes. Denali Highway you drive in Alaska. In Anchorage, for example, there are only two highways that leave the city – one going north, the Travel by Sea The Alaska Marine Highway provides other south. Sooner or later, you’re bound to arrive someplace practical, dependable ferry passages and transportation for cars wonderful. So if you feel comfortable driving at home, you’ll and campervans. Sail point-to-point and trace hundreds of Alaska’s Parklands feel comfortable driving in Alaska too. miles of breathtaking coastline. Railroads The Alaska Railroad provides passenger service on a scenic 500 mile (804km) route running as far Alaska’s Parklands More than half of the south as Seward and as far north as Fairbanks. The Alaska parklands in the United States are found in Alaska. In all, Railroad, along with several private companies, offer unique Alaska contains 322 million acres of public lands, which are double-decker glass-domed cars that provide passengers with administered by federal, state and municipal agencies. an unrestricted view of the landscape. Alaska’s parks offer something for every type of traveller – wildlife viewing, camping, “fishing, outdoor photography, kayaking, mountain climbing, cross-country skiing, hiking and nature walks. Visitors who include a visit to one of Alaska’s parks in their Peak Season Most of Alaska’s visitors travel Mid-May itinerary can marvel at some of the largest glaciers on Earth, to Mid-September. The days are longest, and the temperatures explore ancient rainforests or relax with a picnic amid vast are warmest. Some activities or accommodations may only mountain ranges. be available during this time. This season is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, river rafting, sightseeing and, of National Parks Thanks to the extensive network of course, world-famous fishing. national parks in Alaska, a traveller is never far from a grand adventure in the greatest of the great outdoors. Mount Denali Winter November to April is a time when Alaska sparkles Alaska contains 23 national parks, including seven of and shines and much of the land is covered by a blanket of America’s 10 largest. Many are reasonably close to major Alaska State Parks Alaska has the largest state soft snow. It is the time to see the northern lights, share in the metropolitan areas. For example, the awe-inspiring Denali park system in the nation, which covers 3.3 million acres of excitement of the world-famous Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race National Park and Preserve, featuring North America’s tallest spectacular mountains, remote valleys, forests, pristine rivers, (Anchorage to Nome), watch the World Ice Art Championships peak, Mount McKinley, is easily accessible by road and is alpine tundra, glaciers and marine environments. Managed by in Fairbanks or enjoy the Anchorage Fur Rondy and located between Anchorage and Fairbanks, the state’s two the Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation, there are 123 Tour of Anchorage ski race. You’ll find an abundance of largest cities. park units ranging from half an acre to 1.6 million acres. winter activities, including downhill, cross-country skiing, For visitors to the Inside Passage, Glacier Bay National Depending upon the time of year, visitors can mountain bike, snowmobiling, snowshoeing and dog-mushing. Park and Preserve is just a thirty-minute plane ride from hike, camp, fish, boat, swim, rock climb, geo-cache, gold pan, Juneau. Alaska’s national parks offer diverse experiences view wildlife, ride horseback, drive ATVs, ride snowmobiles, Shoulder Season There are fewer visitors in May, like glacier and wildlife viewing. Visitors can also enjoy hot cross-country ski and tour museums. There are 60 public September and October. This is when you’re likely to find springs, fishing, camping and hiking. Park ranger interpretive use cabins in 18 state park units from Fairbanks to Southeast discounts on travel and activities. The weather in the programs offer an opportunity to learn about wildlife, Alaska. Some of these cabins are on the road system and are shoulder season is often very mild and most summer activities Contact a Travelbag North America expert who will tailor-make your Alaska adventure. geography, traditional native lifestyles and park history. available year round. Alaska’s state parks are a great place to are still offered. When To Go When To Although many of Alaska’s national parks can be reached by view wildlife, including moose, grizzly and black bears, wolves, Call 0844 846 8992 for details or visit your local road, some are accessible only by air or water taxi service. caribou and lynx. Travelbag shop.

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Relive the 1890’s Gold Rush at the aptly named Last Chance Discover Alaska Basin and try your hand at panning for gold. The Norwegian Way!

Let Norwegian Cruise Line be your guide to the incredible shores of Alaska. Waterfalls, forests, snow-capped mountains and huge, ancient glaciers calving icebergs into the blue waters are even more impressive when viewed Ride the 1890’s vintage White from the comfort of your private balcony. See wildlife in the wild – humpback and killer whales, Pass and Yukon narrow gauge eagles, bears and more. Explore picturesque ports where the memories of the 1890’s Gold Rush railroad high into the scenic live on and enjoy exciting adventures like glacier hiking, dog sledding and panning for gold. mountains in the footsteps of And when it’s time to relax and unwind after a day’s exploring, you couldn’t ask for a better gold prospectors. home from home than a Norwegian Cruise Line ship. Offering a unique Freestyle Cruising® concept, you are free to relax, be active, dress up, go casual and party all night, enjoying the best entertainment afloat.

Fly in a seaplane high over Misty Fjords and take in the beauty of 1,000 foot waterfalls and mist-covered rock formations.

Make like an Alaskan on an exhilarating husky drawn sled ride, learn how the dogs are trained and cared for and meet the adorable husky puppies.

T ailor-made Alaskan Cruise packages with Norwegian Cruise Line start from just £1,369pp for 9 nights. For more info or to book, simply call 0844 846 8992 or visit your local Travelbag shop. Terms and conditions apply, please visit www.travelbag.co.uk/cruisetheworld for more information NonEverest -1953: Fiction The Epic Story of the First Ascent by Mick Conefrey

Conefrey reveals that what has gone down in history as a supremely well-planned ascent was in fact beset by crises - both on and off the mountain. To succeed, team leader Colonel John Hunt and his team had to draw on unimaginable skill and determination, as well Travel All great travel apps have one thing in Essential as sheer British ingenuity. Not only a gripping true story of courage and adventure, this is a fascinating window into the media contest common: they all solve a problem you didn’t to cover this seminal event. The Times had exclusive access to the team but the Daily Mail and other papers used subterfuge and even realise you had. That said, with app shenanigans to get their scoops. Revealing the answers to long- Apps stores bulging at the virtual seams with enduring controversies - did Tenzing or Hillary actually reach the top Holiday first? And exploring the legacy of this great ascent, it is the perfect software claiming to make your life easier, way to commemorate a year of British sporting triumph. being simply useful is no longer enough for On the Front Line: The Collected Journalism of Marie Colvin 5 app developers aspiring to greatness. SportAshes Match of My Life: ReadingFourteen Ashes Stars Relive by Marie Colvin Their Greatest Games by Sam Pilger, Rob Wightman Veteran Sunday Times war correspondent, Marie Colvin was killed in February 2012 Fourteen Ashes legends come when covering the uprising in Syria. Winner together to tell the stories behind of the Orwell Special Prize ‘On the Front Line’ their most thrilling triumphs in the is a collection of her finest work, a portion of historic series - enabling cricket the proceeds from which will go to the Marie fans to relive these magic moments Colvin Memorial Fund. through the eyes and emotions of Marie Colvin held a profound belief in the pursuit of truth, and the the men in the middle of the field, courage and humanity of her work was deeply admired. On the FlightTrack XE Currency Fotopedia Heritage playing their hearts out for England Front Line includes her various interviews with Yasser Arafat and and Australia in one of the sporting Colonel Gadaffi; reports from East Timor in 1999 where she shamed Follow the path of thousands of Don’t bother paying up for one of the many Celebrate the beauty of our world. world’s most intense rivalries. the UN into protecting its refugees; accounts of her terrifying international flights on slick, zoomable currency conversion apps out there in the This app was recently selected as one of the All the drama and intrigue of more than half a century of Ashes escape from the Russian army in Chechnya; and reports from the maps, with detailed information on digital hinterland – this freebie is slick, easy top 50 apps of all time in Apple’s Hall of action is captured, from Sir Donald Bradman in the 1940s via strongholds of the Sri Lankan Tamil Tigers where she was hit by departure gates, delays and (heaven forbid) to use, and – best of all, since it uses live Fame. With 30,000 awe-inspiring photo’s, Geoffrey Boycott and Jeff Thomson, Merv Hughes and Mark Taylor shrapnel, leaving her blind in one eye. Typically, however, her new cancellations. Great for those anticipating currency rates – completely accurate. It’s this much loved app has been called the and into the new millennium, recreating all the excitement of Shane eye-patch only reinforced Colvin’s sense of humour and selfless the arrival of loved ones, or particularly been downloaded more than five million world’s largest photo-book, an inspiring Warne and Glenn McGrath taking on Michael Vaughan’s England. conviction. She returned quickly to the front line, reporting on 9/11, nerdy plane-spotters looking to up their times to date, so don’t even think about travel guide, an entertaining, teaching device Each player winds back the clock to reveal the tension, controversy, Afghanistan, Iraq, Gaza and, lately, the Arab Spring. Immediate and game. hopping on a plane without it. and even a bed-time relaxation tool. sledging, humour and passion involved in pursuit of glory - and the compelling, On the Front Line is a street-view of the historic events true cricketing greatness which can only ever be grasped within an that have shaped the last 25 years, from an award-winning foreign Available on iPhone (£2.99), iPad (£2.99), Available on iPhone (free), iPad (free), Available on iPhone (free), iPad (free) Ashes series. correspondent and the outstanding journalist of her generation. Android (£2.99) and Windows Phone (£3.99) Android (free) and Windows Phone (free)

A Delicate Truth Fiction by John Le Carre Wedding Night John le Carre’s A Delicate Truth is a furiously paced By Sophie Kinsella story of moral dilemma, bold action and unexpected love. Gibraltar, 2008. A counter-terror operation, Lottie is tired of long-term boyfriends codenamed Wildlife, is being mounted in Britain’s who don’t want to commit to marriage. most precious colony. Its purpose: to capture and When her old boyfriend Ben reappears abduct a high-value jihadist arms-buyer. Its authors: TripAdvisor Pin Drop and reminds her of their pact to get an ambitious Foreign Office Minister, and a private married if they were both still single at defence contractor who is also his close friend. So Stripping away the glossy magnificence ladled on by just about There are two schools of thought when it comes to exploring a new thirty, she jumps at the chance. There delicate is the operation that even the Minister’s every online travel agency out there, this is the place to find brutally city – you either sit down with a stack of guidebooks the week before will be no dates and no engagement private secretary, Toby Bell, is not cleared for it. honest reviews of hotels, restaurants, attractions and more. The setting off and research your socks off, or you take a leap of faith and - just a straight wedding march to the Cornwall, UK, 2011. A disgraced Special Forces soldier delivers a message user-base is notoriously hard to please, so be warned that you’ll enjoy a weekend of spontaneity. This app caters to the latter, allowing altar! Next comes the honeymoon on from the dead. Was Operation Wildlife the success it was cracked up to most likely find exclamation mark strewn rants next to your favourite you to drop GPS pins onto a map when you stumble across something the Greek island where they first met. be - or a human tragedy that was ruthlessly covered up? Summoned by spots. Still, on the flip side, touchdown in a strange city with interesting, or browse user-made lists recommending the best sights, But not everyone is thrilled with Lottie Sir Christopher Probyn, retired British diplomat, to his decaying Cornish nowhere to stay and you’ll only ever be a few prods away from the sounds and flavours in town. and Ben’s rushed marriage, and family manor house, and closely observed by Probyn’s beautiful daughter, Emily, warts-and-all opinions of travellers just like you. and friends are determined to intervene. Toby must choose between his conscience and duty to his Service. If the Available on iPhone (free) Will Lottie and Ben have a wedding only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing, Available on iPhone (free), iPad (free), Android (free) and night to remember or one to forget? how can he keep silent? Windows Phone (free)

158 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 159 here W in the World?

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160 Escape To book call 0844 846 8992 Escape 161 MAS33100A-Travel Bag Escape Magazine A4.OL_X3.ai 12-6-2013_11.25 AM CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK Fiji The New Movie Hotspot

spectacular sights. I’ll never forget dawn breaking and the Fiji has become the latest location waters receding as we stood on the sand cays, or indeed the hotspot for moviemakers around stunning waterfall that Rick falls off in the movie! I can’t say I brought any Kava (a traditional Fijian drink said to the globe. Legendary rockers Status have hallucinogenic properties) back to the UK with me, but the Fijian traditions, music, dancing and sheer friendliness Quo have just finished filming their were a pleasure to experience. ‘Hello Quo!’ is steeped in the first ever feature film in Fiji. atmosphere, beauty and vibrancy of Fiji and is all the better for it. We all are. Vinaka!” Status Quo’s film is a 90-minute action movie, featuring It is not the first time Fiji has been used as a film location, the band as themselves. Hello Quo! takes its name from indeed Hollywood’s fascination with Fiji stems back more the islanders’ traditional Fijian greeting, of Bula! and also than 50 years. The original 1932 film Robinson Crusoe, references the title of the band’s best-selling “Hello!”. starring Douglas Fairbanks Sr was filmed in Fiji. The 1949 Filmed mainly in an around Nadi, the beaches of the version of The Blue Lagoon, along with the more recent Mamanuca Islands and the Highlands of Viti Levu, Bula remake starring Brooke Shields, were both filmed in Fiji, Quo! is directed by award-winning Stuart St. Paul, who has which was also the location for the ITV series Love Island worked on projects ranging from Duran Duran’s seminal and US’s Celebrity Love Island – both filmed on Bounty ‘Wild Boys’ video to popular movie franchises such as Island in the Mamanucas. ‘Aliens’, ‘Batman’ and three ‘Bond’ movies. Cast Away, the 2000 film starring Tom Hanks as a FedEx Singer Francis Rossi says, “Being a member of Status Quo employee stranded on a desert island after a plane crash, has taken me all over the world. We’ve seen some amazing was filmed on the Fijian Island of Monuriki, a 1 km long things and met some incredible people along the way, but uninhabited island in the Mamanuca group. I have to say that our Fiji experience was up there with the best. Whilst we were based on Viti Levu, the filming for ‘Bula Quo!’ did take us to some of the further flung and truly

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