Avanti Luxury Coach Travel

2018 HOLIDAYS & SHORT BREAKS

Avanti Coach Travel, 26 Heath Way, Blofield Heath, Norwich, NR13 4RS. Telephone: 01603 717488 www.avanticoachholidays.co.uk Email: [email protected] KEUKENHOF, DELFT POTTERY & THE WINDMILLS OF HOLLAND

Sunday 22nd April to Wednesday 25th April 2018 (4 days)

The most well-known iconArticle of Holland I. is probably the tulip, followed closely by windmills and clogs. However, Holland also produces a wonderful variety of cheeses and Delft Pottery is famous world-wide. Join us on this delightful and interesting holiday with tours that will enable you to enjoy the very best of Holland.

From our base at the excellent 4 star Van der Valk Hotel in the historic city of Haarlem, your holiday will include two full-day tours. On the first tour we start at Keukenhof followed by an afternoon visit to Delft and its famous Pottery. Keukenhof, which covers 80 acres, draws visitors from around the world to its wonderful display of tulips, hyacinths, daffodils and narcissi. Over seven million of these flower bulbs, in countless varieties, provide an unforgettable and dazzling display of colour as you stroll through the peaceful wooded gardens which include several beautiful water features.

The visit to Delft begins at the workshops of the famous pottery where you learn about the items produced and then watch as exquisite decorations are hand-painted on the earthenware. Following a visit to the shop, there will be some free time in the historic centre of Delft with time to explore and perhaps visit the New Church with its famous leaning tower and beautiful stained- glass windows.

Our second tour takes us north to Zaanse Schans, a historic working village, set in a picturesque riverside location, with a number of working windmills and typical green-timbered houses and workshops. The mills are still used for sawing wood and grinding flour and spices and you can enjoy a demonstration at one of the windmills. The village and its people represent life in this unique area of Holland during the 18th and 19th centuries and other highlights not to be missed are the bakery, the clog-making warehouse, the cheese factory and the pewter foundry. On returning to Haarlem there will be an opportunity to explore the charming cobbled streets, narrow alleyways and medieval architecture in the compact city centre, which also has delightful scenic waterways.

Your Hotel: Van der Valk Hotel Haarlem – 4 star

Holiday Price: £329.00 per person sharing a twin/double room £75.00 supplement for single occupancy of a twin/double room

Deposit: £50.00 per person

All payments for this holiday to be made payable to “Avanti Coach Travel Trust Fund”.

Included in your holiday price: ❖ Three nights’ accommodation including breakfast ❖ Three course dinner plus coffee on first evening only ❖ All rooms en-suite with TV, telephone, hairdryer and beverage facilities. The hotel has a lift. ❖ All coach travel, tours and admission costs for the following: - Visits to Keukenhof, Delft and Delft Pottery - Visit to Zaanse Schans and free time in Haarlem - Return channel crossings via Eurotunnel - A FULL PASSPORT AND HOLIDAY INSURANCE ARE ESSENTIAL FOR THIS HOLIDAY

A MYSTERY WITH HISTORY

Friday 4th May to Monday 7th May, 2018 (4 days)

Article II.

For our 2018 Mystery Tour we have chosen a region of the UK that we have not previously visited and we have arranged a full itinerary that offers both variety and interest. You will enjoy visits to attractions or places of interest on all four days of the holiday and we have also included a train journey on a heritage railway. Please note that on Saturday the itinerary involves some leisurely walking at certain times during the day. However, you may wish to enjoy the day exploring at your own pace.

We have chosen an excellent 4 star hotel for the holiday and it is one that we have not stayed at in the past. All rooms have en-suite facilities, digital television, hospitality tray and hairdryer and there is a lift to all floors. Guests also have free use of the hotel’s heated indoor pool. The hotel provides porterage on arrival and departure.

The holiday will include a “Guess the Destination” competition, a prize quiz and a free raffle. The only clue we can give you about the destination of the holiday is that it is in the UK, more than 100 miles from Norwich and is somewhere that we have not visited on any previous holiday.

Holiday price: £260.00 per person sharing a twin/double room £45.00 supplement for single occupancy of a double room

Deposit: £40.00 per person

All payments for this holiday are to be made payable to “Avanti Coach Travel Trust Fund”.

Included in your holiday price:

❖ Three nights’ accommodation with full or light breakfast and three course dinner with tea/coffee ❖ En-suite rooms with TV, telephone, hairdryer and hot beverage facilities. The hotel has a lift. ❖ Porterage on arrival and departure ❖ Two full day excursions including admission charges, rail fares and other costs ❖ Admission to an attraction on outward journey ❖ Visit to a place of interest on homeward journey ❖ Competition to guess the holiday destination ❖ A prize quiz and a free raffle

RHS MALVERN SPRING FLOWER FESTIVAL

UPTON-UPON -SEVERN & HEREFORD

Thursday 10th May to Sunday 13th May, 2018 (4 days) Article III.

There is much for everyone to enjoy at the RHS Malvern Spring Festival. As well as the inspirational Show Gardens created by top designers, the Festival Gardens aim to encourage fledgling gardening talent. The impressive Floral Marquee is home to around 70 top nurseries and there will be nursery owners and leading gardening experts on hand at the Potting Bench to offer tips and advice. Visitors can also sample and buy delicious local food in the Festival Food and Drink pavilion and there will also be a vast number of trade stands selling a wide range of crafts, plants, garden furniture and other products.

Although the RHS Malvern Spring Festival will be the highlight of the holiday for many, we have also included a full day tour that will include a visit to the historic city of Hereford and there will also be a visit to the charming small town of Upton-upon-Severn during the holiday. Hereford Cathedral and The Black and White House Museum are two places well worth a visit in Hereford. In Hereford Cathedral you can see the original Mappa Mundi as well as the fascinating Chain Library. The central pedestrian street in Hereford is where you will find The Old House, a magnificent Jacobean half-timbered building which now houses an excellent museum.

On leaving Hereford we travel east to visit the delightful town of Ledbury with its historic Market House and narrow streets and alleyways where you will find many interesting shops and other buildings. The Market House was once a grain store but is now the council chamber.

Perched on the edge of the River Severn, Upton-upon-Severn, considering its size, has plenty of history and sights to enjoy. A lot of the history relates to the English Civil War and among the many sights in the town centre is a charming tower known as the “Pepperpot” by locals. It is the remains of the town’s medieval church and houses the local Heritage Centre. The town has several houses built in the 1600’s and the Tudor House Museum dating back to 1550 is worth a visit. You will also discover that Upton is one of the few towns that still offer predominantly independent shopping.

On the outward journey to our hotel, we include a visit to Spetchley Park Gardens near Worcester which has a superb collection of Magnolias, Rhododendrons, Flowering Dogwoods, Trilliums and Flowering Cherries. During the homeward journey there will be a stop for lunch and sightseeing in Stratford on Avon.

Your Hotel: Holiday Inn Gloucester Cheltenham

Holiday Price: £250.00 per person sharing a twin/double room £45.00 supplement for single occupancy of a double room

Deposit: £40.00 per person

All payments for this holiday to be made payable to “Avanti Coach Travel Trust Fund”.

Included in your holiday price: ❖ Three nights’ accommodation with full English breakfast and three course dinner with tea/coffee ❖ All rooms en-suite with TV, telephone, hairdryer and hot beverage facilities. The hotel has a lift. ❖ Porterage on arrival and departure ❖ All coach travel including tours and admission costs for the following: - RHS Malvern Spring Festival - Hereford including admission to Hereford Cathedral - Upton-upon-Severn and Ledbury - Visit to Spetchley Park Gardens on outward journey - Visit to Stratford on Avon on homeward journey CLASSIC CORNWALL & DELIGHTFUL DEVON

Friday 18th May to Thursday 24th May, 2018 (7 days)

Devon and Cornwall are renowned for their stunning scenery which has helped to make the two counties such popular holiday destinations. For this seven day, two-centre holiday we have arranged a very attractive itinerary that will enable you to enjoy visits to some well-known places as well as some hidden gems in both South Cornwall and South Devon. Article IV. Cornwall’s South Coast is a world away from the surging Atlantic surf of the North Coast. In the south, where the rivers meet the sea, you will find unspoilt picturesque fishing villages and harbours such as Looe, Polperro and Charlestown. Looe is very much a working fishing port and our hotel overlooks the river and harbour where daily catches are landed. If you are an early riser you can watch the flurry of activity as the days catch is auctioned on the quay. Polperro, a few miles west of Looe, is set around a small harbour where tiny fishermen’s cottages cling to the sides of the valley. Charlestown is a quiet village with an unspoilt period harbour with its own tall-ships and perfectly preserved rows of 18th century cottages. You may recognise the harbour from when it played a “starring role” in the TV series “The Onedin Line”. We have included a visit to the Shipwreck and Heritage Museum in Charlestown.

In addition to the Cornish fishing villages and harbours we have also included a visit to the Lost Gardens of Heligan near St Austell. Following decades of neglect, the gardens, glasshouses and other buildings were rescued from overgrowth and decay when in 1990, work began to restore the gardens to their former glory. There is much to enjoy here in spring including camellias, rhododendrons and magnolias.

On the day we transfer to our hotel on Paignton, we travel to the Barbican in Plymouth, where there will be free time to explore the wonderful historic harbourside of cobbled streets and Georgian merchants’ houses, and where the Pilgrim Fathers set sail aboard the Mayflower to the New World in 1620. There will be an opportunity to take an optional boat trip.

In Devon you will enjoy two excursions, the first of which takes you through the unique scenery of Dartmoor to Widecombe in the Moor. The second tour begins with a visit to Teignmouth, a real hidden gem which is both a historic port and a classic seaside resort. The tour continues to Torquay and finishes with a boat trip across Torbay to Brixham.

We have chosen two excellent hotels, both of which are situated in wonderful locations. The Portbyhan Hotel in Looe enjoys an unrivalled quayside position overlooking the bustling tidal harbour and the Redcliffe Hotel in Paignton is situated on a promontory overlooking the sea.

Your Hotels: Portbyhan Hotel, Looe, Cornwall (18th May for 3 nights) Redcliffe Hotel, Paignton, Devon (21st May for 3 nights)

Holiday Price: £485.00 per person sharing a twin/double room £60.00 Single Room Supplement (limited availability) £30.00 per person supplement for Superior Balcony Room (Portbyhan Hotel) £15.00 per person supplement for a River Facing Room (Portbyhan Hotel)

Deposit: £40.00 per person

All payments for this holiday to be made payable to “Avanti Coach Travel Trust Fund”.

Included in your holiday price: ❖ Six nights’ accommodation with full English breakfast and three course dinner with tea/coffee ❖ All rooms en-suite with TV, telephone, hairdryer and hospitality tray ❖ Both hotels have a lift. The Redcliffe Hotel has a heated indoor pool ❖ Entertainment on four evenings during the holiday ❖ All coach travel including tours as follows: - Visit to Polperro and free time in Looe - Lost Gardens of Heligan (inc. adm.), Charlestown and the Shipwrecked Heritage Museum (inc. adm.) - Plymouth Hoe and The Barbican - Dartmoor and Widecombe in the Moor - Teignmouth, Torquay and boat trip across Torbay to Brixham TALL SHIPS DUBLIN, 2018 GLENDALOUGH & THE WICKLOW MOUNTAINS

Thursday 31st May to Monday 4th June, 2018 (5 days)

An exciting new tour to Ireland with a great itinerary that has a guided tour of Dublin which includes a visit to Dublin Port to see the Tall Ships that will be taking part in the four days of the Tall Ships Regatta.Article The V. tour of Dublin will include visits to Phoenix Park, Trinity College and nearby Grafton Street where you will have some free time. Georgian Dublin, south of the city centre is another attractive area that you will see.

Another full day tour will take you to one of Ireland’s most beautiful locations – the Glendalough Valley in the Wicklow Mountains National Park. For hundreds of years people have been drawn to the “Valley of the Two Lakes” because of its spectacular scenery, rich history, archaeology and abundant wildlife. Carved out by glaciers during the last Ice Age, the valley is home to one of Ireland’s most treasured monastic sites founded by St Kevin in the 6th century. The “Monastic City” consists of a number of impressive monastic remains which are dominated by the 100 ft. high Round Tower. For the tour we will once again enjoy the services of a knowledgeable guide as we enjoy the best that County Wicklow has to offer. You will hear about Ireland’s Ancient East, its Viking past and its early Christian glories as we travel through scenic glens and picturesque villages such as Avoca, where Ballykissangel was filmed. There will be a stop at the Meeting of the Waters where the rivers Avonmore and Avonbeg meet followed by some free time by the coast in the county town of Wicklow

Finally, a half-day tour to see the superb Powerscourt Gardens situated in the foothills of the Wicklow Mountains around fifteen miles south of Dublin. The magnificent 47 acres of gardens, which lie at the end of a mile-long beech boulevard, offer some of the grandest views in Ireland. The remainder of the day will be spent in Bray where you can enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring the promenade and the town.

We travel to and from Ireland on the Irish Ferries “Swift” which completes the crossing from Holyhead to Dublin in two hours.

The Esplanade Hotel in Bray, which is situated on the coast a few miles south of Dublin, does not have any ground floor rooms but does have a lift which is suitable for wheelchairs. The hotel provides entertainment on two evenings and there will be a prize quiz on another evening. You will also receive a complimentary daily newspaper and an Irish Coffee after dinner on the final evening.

Your Hotel: Esplanade Hotel, Bray, County Wicklow – 3 star

Holiday Price: £435.00 per person sharing a twin/double room £80.00 supplement for single occupancy of a twin/double room

Deposit: £50.00 per person

All payments for this holiday to be made payable to “Avanti Coach Travel Trust Fund”.

Included in your holiday price: ❖ Four nights’ accommodation with full Irish breakfast and three course dinner with tea/coffee ❖ En-suite bedrooms with TV, telephone, hairdryer and hospitality tray. The hotel has a lift. ❖ Return fast ferry between Holyhead and Dublin with Irish Ferries ❖ Hotel to provide a “Welcome” drink on arrival and complimentary daily newspaper, two nights’ entertainment, a prize quiz and Irish Coffee after dinner on the final evening ❖ All coach travel including: - Two full-day tours with the services of a guide as described above - One half-day excursion to Powerscourt Gardens including admission cost

Please Note – The unit of currency in Ireland is the euro. The holiday price has been based on an exchange rate of 1 GB Pound = Euro 1.10. The final holiday price could go up or down if there is more than 2% change in the exchange rate at the time balance payments are due, i.e. six weeks before departure.

HISTORIC YORK, WONDERFUL WHITBY & THE NORTH YORKSHIRE MOORS

Sunday 10th June to Thursday 14th June, 2018 (5 days)

North Yorkshire has a wonderful combination of vibrant cities, lively market towns, picturesque villages and beautiful,Article unspoilt VI. landscapes. The region also has a spectacular coastline with attractive resorts such as Whitby, Scarborough and Bridlington. This holiday will give you the opportunity to experience and enjoy the diverse beauty and charm of the region and see why Yorkshire has become known as “God’s own county”.

The beautiful, clean golden sands of Bridlington’s beach are what has made the town such a popular and traditional seaside resort. Be sure to visit Bridlington’s Old Town, with its narrow 17th century streets, for a unique shopping experience, with many independent shops, some selling antiques, art and jewellery. The Bayle Museum, dedicated to the history of the town, can be found at the beautiful Augustinian Priory. Bridlington is still a thriving fishing port and catches of fish and shellfish are brought ashore in the busy, unspoilt harbour. On leaving Bridlington we visit nearby Burton Agnes Hall and Gardens. The same family have lived in the Elizabethan Hall for 400 years and the architecture, art collection and fine contemporary works have resulted in the property being described as “the perfect English house” and it is in the top twenty finest houses in England. In addition there are magnificent gardens with a hundred topiary yew bushes, a classical pond with fountains and an old walled garden containing round 3,000 different plants.

Despite its relatively compact size, York is packed with things to see and do. The city has an abundance of Viking, Roman, Saxon, Georgian and Edwardian heritage which is evident in the architecture, street names and attractions and the two miles of walls that encircle the City are the longest in England. You can enjoy around four hours of free time in York during which time you could enjoy a river cruise, visit the superb National Railway Museum (free admission), explore York Minister or the Shambles or “Walk the Walls”. There are also many attractions including excellent museums in York. On leaving York we make an afternoon visit to Yorkshire Lavender Farm and Gardens which has a Sensory Garden, Deer Park, Gift Shop, Tea Rooms and superb views over the Vale of York.

The final tour of the holiday takes us into the North York Moors where we visit Goathland, a village you may recognise as “Aidensfield” in the TV series “Heartbeat”. We continue on to visit the Gothic maritime town of Whitby, a delightful fishing port left largely untouched since the days of its famous son, Captain James Cook. We also enjoy the spectacular scenery along the coast road to Scarborough before making our final visit to Thornton-le-Dale, a picturesque village near Pickering.

We cross the amazing Humber Bridge followed by a visit to Beverley on the outward journey to our hotel and we have included a visit to Lincoln on the homeward journey.

The Parsonage Hotel, which is set in six acres of beautiful formal gardens and woodland, has stylish bedrooms, a beautiful conservatory and elegant lounges. The hotel also has an indoor heated pool.

Your Hotel: Parsonage Hotel, Escrick, near York

Holiday Price: £310.00 per person sharing a twin/double room £60.00 supplement for single occupancy of a twin/double room

Deposit: £40.00 per person

All payments for this holiday to be made payable to “Avanti Coach Travel Trust Fund”.

Included in your holiday price: ❖ Four nights’ accommodation with full breakfast and three course dinner with tea/coffee ❖ All rooms en-suite with TV, telephone, hairdryer and beverage facilities. The hotel has a lift. ❖ Porterage on arrival and departure ❖ All coach travel, tours and admission costs for the following: - Bridlington – Burton Agnes Hall & Gardens - York – Yorkshire Lavender Farm & Gardens - Goathland – North York Moors – Whitby – Thornton-le-Dale - Visit to Beverley on the outward journey and Lincoln on the homeward journey CANTERBURY & THE BEST OF KENT

Sunday 24th June to Thursday 28th June, 2018 (5 days)

With captivating countryside, stunning coastline and rich heritage it is easy to see why Kent makes such an excellent holiday destination. Whether it is gardens, castles, fascinating museums or maritime and wartime history, Kent certainly has plenty of variety to offer. Known as the “Garden of England”, Kent is renowned for its rural beauty, spectacular coastline and the magnificent White Cliffs of Dover.

We have included three excursions during the holiday which will help you experience the beauty, history and heritage of Kent. The first tour begins with a visit to Deal, one of the five original Cinque Ports. We continue two milesArticle south toVII. Walmer Castle which was built as part of England’s defences by Henry VIII. You can enjoy an audio tour here during which you will see the room in which the Duke of Wellington died and the reception rooms in which the Queen Mother entertained. On leaving Walmer Castle we travel via the White Cliffs of Dover to Capel-le-Ferne and the Battle of Britain Memorial. This tranquil site includes the National Memorial to the Few and the Christopher Foxley- Norris Memorial Wall. These reflect the heroism and sacrifice displayed by “The Few” who repelled the Luftwaffe in 1940. The Memorial Wall is carved with the names of “The Few” - those who made at least one sortie during the campaign. The Wing Visitor Centre houses the Scramble Experience, an audio-visual presentation that explains how “The Few” succeeded in repelling German air attacks.

Our second tour takes us on a morning visit to one of Kent’s most beautiful gardens at Goodnestone. Situated south east of Canterbury, this lovely garden was the inspiration for Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice”. The 14 acres of gardens have superb borders, a large collection of shrubs, old fashioned roses, walled garden, woodland garden and a small arboretum. The afternoon will be free for you to explore Canterbury and its World Heritage Site which has numerous attractions including museums, ancient houses, walking the medieval city walls and of course, the magnificent Canterbury Cathedral. The location of the infamous murder of Thomas Becket here in 1170 is marked on the Cathedral floor. From the Cathedral, walk up to the 6th century ruins of St Augustine’s Abbey, a site which marked the rebirth of Christianity in southern England.

The third tour commences with a visit to the charming Victorian seaside resort of Broadstairs. Here you will find the Dickens House Museum and also Bleak House, an imposing cliff-top building where Dickens stayed in the 1850s when he wrote David Copperfield. The afternoon journey back to Canterbury will include a visit to the Spitfire and Hurricane Memorial Museum at Manston, one of the very few surviving airfields which participated in the “Battle of Britain”. You will see splendid examples of the two fighter aircraft and other fascinating memorabilia including the superb “Battle of Britain” Tapestry.

The outward journey to Canterbury will include a lunchtime and early afternoon visit to the north Kent resort of Herne Bay and on the return journey you can enjoy around two hours of free time in the delightful and historic town of Rochester.

The Abbots Barton Hotel is situated in Canterbury, just a 10-minute walk from the Cathedral and town centre. Set in lawned gardens, this excellent 3 star Best Western Hotel has 53 well-appointed guest rooms which all have televisions, free WiFi, hairdryers and beverage facilities.

Your Hotel: Best Western Abbots Barton Hotel, Canterbury

Holiday Price: £339.00 per person sharing a twin/double room No supplement for occupancy of a single bedded room (limited number)

Deposit: £40.00 per person

All payments for this holiday to be made payable to “Avanti Coach Travel Trust Fund”.

Included in your holiday price: ❖ Four nights’ accommodation with full English breakfast and three course dinner with tea/coffee ❖ All rooms en-suite with TV, wifi, telephone and beverage facilities. There is a lift to all floors ❖ Porterage on arrival and departure ❖ All coach travel and admission costs for the following tours: - Deal – Walmer Castle – via Dover to Battle of Britain Memorials, Capel le Ferne - Goodnestone Gardens –free afternoon in Canterbury - Broadstairs – The Spitfire & Hurricane Memorial Museum at Manston - Visits to Herne Bay on outward journey and to Rochester on homeward journey EMMERDALE, SUMMER WINE & THE YORKSHIRE DALES NATIONAL PARK

Sunday 1st July to Thursday 5th July, 2018 (5 days)

We return to theArticle delightful Cornmill VIII. Lodge Hotel at Pudsey near Leeds as our base for a tour that covers both North and West Yorkshire and which includes visits to television filming locations, a World Heritage Site and a scenic tour in the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

Several television programmes are filmed in Yorkshire and we have included tours to locations for three of them – Emmerdale, Last of the Summer Wine and Victoria. The Emmerdale tour begins with a short visit to the tiny village of Esholt which was used for filming in the early years of the programme. The old Woolpack Pub in Esholt is open and continues serving food and drink and the shop and Post Office are also still in the village. From Esholt we travel into Leeds for the Emmerdale Studio Experience. This is an indoor attraction which takes you behind the scenes of the iconic TV programme. The 80 minute tour includes make-up, lighting, special effects, editing, costume and of course a visit inside the “new” Woolpack. The next visit of the day is to Harewood House, situated seven miles north of Leeds. The house, which became Buckingham Palace in the TV series “Victoria”, is set in spectacular landscaped grounds, which include formal gardens, Himalayan Garden, Bird Garden, a waterfall and gentle woodland walks. Harewood House is one of Yorkshire’s treasure houses and has wonderful Adam ceilings, Chippendale furniture and outstanding art collections. A visit to the huge kitchen gives an indication of the large number of people that were catered for on special occasions.

The second tour with TV connections takes us south to Holmfirth near Huddersfield where all the location shots for Last of the Summer Wine were filmed in the town and the surrounding countryside. Holmfirth is a charming and quirky market town which is home to Nora Batty’s Steps, The Wrinkled Stocking Tea Room, Sid’s Café and Compo’s former house which is now where the Last of the Summer Wine Exhibition is located. From Holmfirth we travel north to Saltaire near Shipley. This village was named after the mill owner Titus Salt who built a new mill and Saltaire village to rehouse his workforce away from the slums and pollution in Bradford in 1853. In 2001 Saltaire was made a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The enormous mill is free to enter and has a world class collection of art on display including many works of art by local artist David Hockney.

The third tour of the holiday takes you north to the Yorkshire Dales where the first visit of the day is to the lovely market town of Settle. We continue north through The Dales to visit Hawes, passing the famous Ribblehead Viaduct on the Settle to Carlisle Railway. From Hawes we return to our hotel via Kettlewell where many scenes in the film “Calendar Girls” were shot.

On the outward journey to our hotel we have included an afternoon visit to The Royal Armouries in Leeds where there are superb displays and fascinating exhibits of weapons and armour through the ages.

Your Hotel: Cornmill Lodge Hotel, Pudsey near Leeds

Holiday Price: £270.00 per person sharing twin/double room £40.00 single supplement

Deposit: £40.00 per person

All payments for this holiday to be made payable to “Avanti Coach Travel Trust Fund”.

Included in your holiday price: ❖ Four nights’ accommodation with full English breakfast and three course dinner with tea/coffee ❖ All rooms en-suite with TV, telephone, hairdryer and beverage facilities. The hotel has a lift. ❖ All coach travel including the following tours and attractions: - Holmfirth am – Saltaire pm - Esholt – Emmerdale Studio Experience – Harewood House - Yorkshire Dales National Park with visits to Settle and Hawes - Royal Armouries, Leeds - Admission costs included for Emmerdale Studio Experience, Harewood House and the Royal Armouries PORTSMOUTH & SOUTHSEA COCKTAILS AND A CRUISE

Monday 9th July to Friday 13th July, 2018 (5 days)

Wherever you are Articlein Portsmouth IX. and Southsea, you are never far from the waterfront or the coast. The beach and promenade in Southsea overlook The Solent, while the Dockyard, Gunwharf Quays and Spinnaker Tower are all alongside the waterfront of Portsmouth Harbour. At the beginning of your holiday you will have a day to explore both Southsea and Portsmouth. Portsmouth has a wealth of maritime history which is superbly presented at the Historic Dockyard. Here you will find a collection of museums and historic ships that include the Royal Navy Museum, HMS Victory, HMS Warrior and the now fully open Mary Rose Museum, which has been built around Henry VIII’s favourite warship. The Mary Rose is the only surviving 16th century warship in the world and in the Museum you can also see thousands of artefacts, including personal and domestic items as well as military objects that were found during her recovery. Portsmouth is home to the Royal Navy and it is possible you may see aircraft carriers, destroyers and frigates if you take the 45- minute Harbour Tour. An all-inclusive ticket is available which covers the two warships, The Mary Rose Museum, Royal Navy Museum and the Harbour Tour. Alternatively, admission to one or more attractions can be booked and then a free harbour tour is included with every booking. Close to the promenade in Southsea is where you will find the excellent D Day Museum, where a visit includes a remarkable film about D Day and on display also is the impressive 272 feet long Overlord Embroidery which tells the story of D Day. A short distance away and overlooking The Solent, is the free-to-explore Southsea Castle from where Henry VIII watched the Mary Rose go down.

Our second excursion will take you on a scenic tour in the beautiful South Downs before we arrive in the cathedral city of Chichester where it is market day. There will be time to explore the city and have lunch before we travel a few miles south west to Itchenor where we depart on a scenic and relaxing 1½ hour cruise around the beautiful sheltered waters of Chichester Harbour.

The final tour begins with a visit to Royal Armouries Fort Nelson on Ports Down Hill, where there are magnificent views over Portsmouth Harbour. There will be free time to explore this amazing Victorian Fort which has been fully restored to its former glory. On leaving Fort Nelson we travel north to the historic Laverstock Mill, near Whitchurch where the famous Bombay Sapphire Distillery is located. Here you will discover the unique Vapour Infusion process that gives Bombay Sapphire gin such a bright, fresh flavour. Explore the ten botanicals in stunning glasshouses and the history of both the Mill and the gin before enjoying a complimentary Bombay Sapphire cocktail in the Mill Bar. If you do not drink, a non-alcoholic drink will be offered along with a Gin & Tonic takeaway pack.

The Best Western Royal Beach Hotel in Southsea has well-equipped and comfortable bedrooms and the restaurant offers an excellent choice of delicious food, both at breakfast and dinner. The hotel is situated in a quiet area of the promenade and the D Day Museum and Southsea Castle are just a few minutes walk away.

Your Hotel: Best Western Beach Hotel, Southsea Holiday Price: £350.00 per person No single supplement (single bedded rooms) Deposit: £40.00 per person

All payments for this holiday to be made payable to “Avanti Coach Travel Trust Fund”.

Included in your holiday price: ❖ Four nights’ accommodation with full English breakfast and three course dinner with tea/coffee ❖ All rooms en-suite with TV, hairdryer and hospitality tray. The hotel has a lift to all floors. ❖ Porterage at the hotel on arrival and departure ❖ All coach travel and tours as follows: - Scenic tour in the South Downs – Chichester – 1 ½ hour cruise on Chichester Harbour (cruise cost included) - Visit to Royal Armouries Fort Nelson – Bombay Sapphire Distillery – Laverstock Mill (all admission costs included) - Coach travel to and from Portsmouth and the D Day Museum, Southsea LIVERPOOL, SPEKE HALL & THE TERRACOTTA WARRIORS

Wednesday 25th July to Saturday 28th July, 2018 (4 days)

The vibrant city of Liverpool is rich in maritime heritage and its iconic and impressive waterfront is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The very name of the city conjures up a number of images such as the Mersey Ferry, Albert Dock or perhaps The Royal Liver Building. However, with more museums and galleries than any other city outside London, two cathedrals, a proud sporting history and an amazing musical history, there is much to see and do in Liverpool. In its wonderful location adjacent to Liverpool’s famous waterfront, we stay at the four star Mercure Atlantic Tower Hotel where youArticle will enjoy X.excellent accommodation, food and service.

To enable you to understand the history, heritage and culture of Liverpool, the first tour of your holiday will be with a local and knowledgeable guide who will provide an entertaining commentary as we take in the famous sights and buildings on a 2 ½ hour guided tour of the city. There will be stops during the tour at various places of interest. In the afternoon we have arranged a visit to the nearby Liverpool World Museum which is also presenting the Terracotta Warriors Exhibition. Some of the spectacular warriors, excavated in 1974 from the vast tomb complex of China’s First Emperor, Qin Shi Huangdi, will be on display as part of an exhibition telling the story of almost 1000 years of China’s history. It will also include a number of objects from museums and institutes from across Shaanxi Province which have been found during the last 40 years. Some of these date back almost 3000 years and shed light on the pursuit of immortality and how China’s Emperors prepared for the afterlife.

During the holiday you will also enjoy a trip on the famous Mersey Ferry which departs from Pier Head. You will get superb views of Liverpool’s waterfront and skyline and on the Birkenhead side of the Mersey you can get off the ferry to enjoy a free visit to the “U-Boat Story” at Woodside and experience life on a real German U-boat with original film footage and artefacts found in the vessel. You can catch the next ferry 50 minutes later, back to Pier Head. After free time during which you may wish to explore the beautifully re-generated Albert Dock area, we travel to Speke Hall and Garden, a National Trust property situated alongside the Mersey, approximately seven miles south east of Liverpool City Centre. Speke Hall is a rare, timber framed Manor House in a most unusual setting. Restored and brought back to life in the 19th century, it is a unique and beautiful mixture of Tudor simplicity and Victorian elegance. Dating from the 1530s Speke Hall has a fine Tudor Great Hall and the entire property is surrounded by beautifully restored gardens. National Trust Members, who present a valid membership card on the day will be entitled to a £10 discount on the holiday price.

Your Hotel: Mercure Liverpool Atlantic Tower Hotel

Holiday Price: £299.00 per person sharing a twin/double room £66.00 supplement for single occupancy of a twin/double room

Deposit: £40.00 per person

All payments for this holiday to be made payable to “Avanti Coach Travel Trust Fund”.

Included in your holiday price: ❖ Three nights’ accommodation with full English breakfast and three course dinner plus tea/coffee ❖ All rooms en-suite with TV, telephone, hairdryer and beverage facilities. ❖ The hotel has a lift to all floors. Please note – there are no bedrooms on the first and second floors ❖ All coach travel and other costs for the following: - Guided tour of Liverpool – Visit to the World Museum and the Terracotta Warriors Exhibition - A trip on the Mersey Ferry including option to see the “U-boat Story” included - A visit, including admission to Speke Hall and Gardens LLANDUDNO, SNOWDONIA &

TEA on the DEE

Friday 3rd August to Monday 6th August, 2018 (4 days)

Llandudno enjoys a wonderful location on a long sweeping bay on the North Wales coast where the mountainsArticle ofXI. Snowdonia make a spectacular backdrop. This fine, traditional seaside resort has a wide promenade that is backed by a two mile stretch of hotels that demonstrate the timeless charm of Victorian architecture. For this short break we return to the excellent, family run St Kilda Hotel which is situated about 30 metres from the beach opposite The Bandstand and just a short stroll from the pier. The hotel has a lift to all floors and there is entertainment each evening.

On the first full day in Llandudno you will have the option of spending the whole day in the resort or joining an afternoon excursion taking in the wonderful scenery of Snowdonia. In Llandudno you can enjoy a tram ride up the Great Orme where, on a clear day, you can see as far as the Lake District and the Isle of Man. The town also has a good mix of local independent shops as well as some larger national stores. The tour in Snowdonia takes you through to Vale of Conwy and includes a visit to Betws-y-Coed.

Our second excursion takes us to Chester where you will have free time to explore and find out what this historic city has to offer. Discover Chester’s remarkable cathedral with its superb medieval carvings; the unique 700 year old Rows (galleries of shops) and the most complete City walls in Britain. After a busy morning in Chester you can sit back and relax on a two hour afternoon cruise on the River Dee which will include a delicious cream tea.

Afternoon tea and scones will be served on arrival at our hotel on the outward journey and on the homeward journey we make a lunchtime stop in Shrewsbury.

Your Hotel: St Kilda Hotel, Llandudno

Holiday Price: £259.00 per person sharing a twin/double room £9.00 Single Room Supplement (£3 per night)

Deposit: £40.00 per person

All payments for this holiday to be made payable to “Avanti Coach Travel Trust Fund”.

Included in your holiday price:

❖ Three nights’ accommodation with full breakfast and three course dinner with tea/coffee ❖ All rooms en-suite with TV, telephone and beverage facilities. There is a lift to all floors ❖ Afternoon tea and scones at hotel on arrival ❖ Entertainment each evening ❖ Porterage on arrival and departure ❖ All coach travel, tours and costs for the following: - Half day excursion in Snowdonia National Park including a visit to Betws-y-Coed - Full day tour to Chester with a two hour cruise on the River Dee that includes a cream tea - Visit to Shrewsbury on homeward journey

THE BEST OF NORTHUMBERLAND

Monday 13th August to Saturday 18th August, 2018 (6 days)

The very north-eastern corner of Northumberland, with its designated Heritage Coast, has a wonderful array of impressive historic sites that defined the ancient Kingdom of Northumbria. This is a region of rolling countryside and heather-clad hills, sandy beaches and seaside towns, quaint villages and bustling market towns as well as mighty castles and historic monuments. For this six day holiday that has an itinerary full of interest and variety, we stay at the excellent 4 star Holiday Inn Hotel near Newcastle.

The first tour commences with a visit to the picturesque and historic market town of Hexham where there is a good choice of independent shops and cafes. A visit to the magnificent 12th century Hexham Abbey is recommended. We continue our tour with a visit to the City of Newcastle, where you will have free time to enjoy exploring Newcastle’s Quayside and City Centre. The Quayside, along the banks of the River Tyne, was once an industrial area but has been redeveloped to provide an attractive environment with restaurants, bars, landscaped promenade and one of the main features is the Millennium Bridge which spans the river.

Our second tour begins with a visit to Lindisfarne (Holy Island), which is only accessible along a three mile causeway at low tide. This unique and peaceful place is where Christianity began in this part of England and the Heritage Centre at Lindisfarne Priory, which has an electronic copy of the ornate and illuminated Lindisfarne Gospels, is worth a visit. You will also have the opportunity to visit the iconic Lindisfarne Castle during your time on the island. On leaving Holy Island we travel to the lovely town of Alnwick where you will have time for an optional visit to either the magnificent historic castle, used for many scenes in the Harry Potter films, or the contemporary garden with its famous cascade and fountains, both located just a short walk from the town centre.

Our third tour takes us west along the Military Road, which closely follows the line of Hadrian’s Wall, to visit Vindolanda, site of a Roman Fort and settlement with a superb museum containing countless artefacts of Roman life. As you will see, excavations are still continuing at the site. The next stop on the tour is Bellingham where the Heritage Centre has displays, exhibitions and archive film on the local railway, the farming and mining communities and the village blacksmith. The Carriages Tea Room at Bellingham Station is made up of a number of carriages built in 1957 and which still have their original fixtures, fittings and seats.

Our final tour begins with a guided tour of Bamburgh Castle. Once the royal seat of the Kings of Northumbria, the Castle has stood guard over this beautiful coastline for over 1,400 years and is one of the largest inhabited castles in the country. Discover over 3,000 items on display, throughout fourteen rooms, ranging from arms and armour to fine porcelain, china, artwork and furniture. From Bamburgh we travel along the coast to Seahouses, a seaside town where you will have the option to take a 1 ½ hour return boat trip to the Farne Islands to view the wildlife which include seals, puffins, kittiwakes and other sea birds.

Your Hotel: Holiday Inn, Seaton Burn near Newcastle-upon-Tyne (4 star) Holiday Price: £355.00 per person sharing a twin/double room £75.00 supplement for single occupancy of a twin/double room Deposit: £40.00 per person All payments for this holiday to be made payable to “Avanti Coach Travel Trust Fund”.

Included in your holiday price: ❖ Five nights’ accommodation with full English breakfast and three course dinner with tea/coffee ❖ All rooms en-suite with TV, telephone and beverage facilities. Use of the heated pool at the hotel ❖ There is a lift at the hotel and ample ground floor rooms ❖ Porterage is provided on arrival and departure ❖ All coach travel and tours to include the following: - Hexham am – Newcastle pm - Lindisfarne (Holy Island) - Alnwick (optional visits to Alnwick Castle or Garden not included) - Vindolanda am (including admission) – Bellingham pm - Bamburgh Castle & guided tour (including admission) – Seahouses (optional boat trip to Farne Islands not included) EDINBURGH TATTOO, THE KELPIES & THE SCOTTISH BORDERS

Wednesday 22nd August to Saturday 25th August, 2018 (4 days)

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, to give it its full title, is a truly remarkable and internationally acclaimed annual event which has become one of the world’s most spectacular shows. This thrilling and moving experience,Article staged XII. against the world-famous backdrop of Edinburgh castle, incorporates the unforgettable music of the massed pipes and drums and the massed military bands as well as singers, dancers and many other top performers from around the world. The imaginative graphics and the state-of-the-art lighting also play a large part in producing an amazing atmosphere each evening before the show finally draws to an emotional and poignant close as the Lone Piper, high on the castle ramparts, plays a haunting lament.

Although the Tattoo is the highlight of the holiday, you will also enjoy visits to Callendar House and The Kelpies and a tour in the Scottish Borders. Callendar House, near Falkirk, is built in the style of a French chateau and dates back to the 14th century. There is a lot of rich history to be discovered here, including the working Georgian Kitchen which has been faithfully restored to how it would have been in 1825. Situated less than two miles from Callendar House, The Kelpies are Scotland’s two new cultural icons weighing a staggering 300 tons each. These are the world’s largest equine sculptures and they tower 100 feet above the Forth & Clyde Canal. On our guided tour, you will go inside a Kelpie and discover its origin and artistic inspiration and the complex engineering that is behind these beautiful structures which are a tribute to the working horses of Scotland.

Finally, our tour in the Scottish Borders will give you the opportunity to visit the delightful Borders town of Peebles and the historic town of Kelso with its cobbled streets, elegant Georgian buildings and French-styled cobbled market square. During the tour we also visit the picturesque Abbotsford House and Gardens, which was once the inspirational home of Sir Walter Scott.

Set in 25 acres of grounds, the striking Mercure Barony Castle Hotel has an indoor heated pool and a lift to all floors, except the fourth. There are no rooms on the ground floor.

PLEASE NOTE, EARLY BOOKING FOR THIS HOLIDAY IS ESSENTIAL. The final date on which we can purchase tickets for the Tattoo is Tuesday 15th May 2018.

Your Hotels: Mercure Barony Castle Hotel, Eddleston, near Peebles – 3 star

Holiday Price: £379.00 per person sharing a twin/double room £66.00 supplement for single occupancy of a double room

Deposit: £40.00 per person

All payments for this holiday to be made payable to “Avanti Coach Travel Trust Fund”.

Included in your holiday price: ❖ Two nights’ accommodation, dinner, bed and breakfast ❖ One night’s accommodation, bed and breakfast (dinner not included on evening of Tattoo) ❖ Rooms are en-suite with TV, telephone, hairdryer and beverage facilities. Porterage is included. ❖ All coach travel, tours and costs for the following: - Entrance ticket to the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo - Admission to Callendar House and The Kelpies - Full day tour in The Scottish Borders - Admission cost to Abbotsford House and Gardens

Accessibility – Edinburgh Military Tattoo Castlehill, the old-cobbled approach to the Esplanade, is a short walk of some 80 metres, though on a steady incline which may prove difficult for some. In addition, there is approximately a further 60 metres followed by a dozen or so steps to be negotiated to reach the front rows of all the spectator stands in the arena where generally the seating is quite steeply tiered.

Please Note: In the event of any part of the performance of the Tattoo being cancelled through inclement weather, tickets are not valid for any other performance and no money will be refunded. To date, no performance has ever been cancelled because of the weather but you are advised to have appropriate clothing with you as this is an open-air event.

THE CHARMING COTSWOLDS

Thursday 30th August to Sunday 2nd September, 2018 (4 days) Article XIII. The Cotswolds are a range of hills that cover an area best known for its idyllic English landscapes that are dotted with an attractive blend of small market towns and picturesque villages. Almost every building in the region is made from the local honey-coloured limestone, many of which date from the 15th to 17th centuries when the art of Cotswold building was at its height.

Our first tour in the Cotswolds begins with visits to the wonderful villages of Broadway and Chipping Campden and ends with a nostalgic steam train journey through magnificent Cotswold scenery as you travel the twelve miles from Toddington Station to Prestbury Station at Cheltenham. Broadway is a beautiful and historic village with a wide main street lined with dignified houses, shops and inns. Chipping Campden gained its character from being a famous medieval wool town. It is known today for its unusual and attractive High Street, a designated conservation area, which is lined with ancient houses each with its own distinctive architectural style.

The second tour of the holiday takes us via the lovely village of Lechlade on Thames on our way to the truly historic town of Burford. There will be free time to enjoy exploring this delightful town before we continue our scenic tour with a visit to Bourton-on-the-Water where the small River Windrush flows alongside the main street through this most picturesque village. You will also enjoy a visit to Cirencester which was once a very prosperous medieval wool town. Cirencester, often referred to as the Capital of the Cotswolds, was the second largest town in Britain during Roman times. Cirencester’s market square is dominated by the cathedral-like Parish Church of St John Baptist (one of the largest in England). The large, three story south porch, with its impressive fan vaulting, was built in 1490!

On our outward journey to the Cotswolds we stop for lunch and sightseeing in the medieval town of Tewkesbury on the River Severn. The town, which is renowned for its old timber-framed buildings, has a long and fascinating history and the opportunity to visit the beautiful Abbey should not be missed. On the return journey we stop for around two hours at Stratford-upon- Avon, the town synonymous with William Shakespeare. There are cafes, shops and riverside gardens to enjoy and you may like to take a one-hour cruise of the River Avon before we leave.

We stay at the superb 4 star Best Western Blunsdon House Hotel, situated between Swindon and Cirencester. Family owned, the hotel is set in 30 acres of beautiful countryside and offers excellent accommodation, food and service. Guests have full use of the leisure facilities including the heated pool.

Your Hotel: Best Western Blunsdon House Hotel, near Cirencester (4 star)

Holiday Price: £275.00 per person sharing a twin/double room £60.00 supplement for single occupancy of a twin/double room

Deposit: £40.00 per person

All payments for this holiday to be made payable to “Avanti Coach Travel Trust Fund”.

Included in your holiday price: ❖ Three nights’ accommodation with Full English Breakfast and three course dinner with tea/coffee ❖ All rooms en-suite with TV, hairdryer and beverage facilities. The hotel has a lift. ❖ Use of the hotel’s leisure facilities including indoor pool ❖ Trip on the Gloucester & Warwickshire Steam Railway ❖ All coach travel with tours and visits as follows: - Full day tour – Chipping Campden – Broadway –train journey on the Gloucester & Warwickshire Railway - Full day tour – Burford – Bourton-on-the-Water - Cirencester - Visit to Tewkesbury on outward journey and Stratford-upon-Avon on the homeward journey HIDDEN GEMS

OF THE LAKES & DALES

Thursday 6th September to Monday 10th September, 2018 (5 days)

Enjoy a relaxing break inArticle The Lakes andXIV. Yorkshire Dales which is arguably one of the most scenic and picturesque regions of England. The character and charm of the Lake District has inspired writers and poets for hundreds of years and Cumbria’s most famous son, William Wordsworth, wrote – “This is the most loveliest spot that man hath ever found”.

The holiday includes three full day excursions, two of which include new attractions, historic towns and picturesque villages. The first of these begins with a visit to the lovely village of Cartmel, renowned as being a food lover’s paradise. It is particularly famous for Sticky Toffee Pudding, Cartmel Cheese and L’Enclume, an award-winning Michelin star restaurant. The village has grown up around the 12th century priory Church of St Mary and St Michael which is regarded as one of the finest church buildings in the north of England. There will be time to explore the Market Place and Unsworth’s Yard, or perhaps have a drink in one of Cartmel’s ancient pubs before we travel to Levens Hall. This welcoming and fascinating Elizabethan mansion has oak panelling, leather wall coverings, impressive period furniture and some of the earliest English patchwork. You will also see fine paintings and other beautiful and priceless objects. The world- famous gardens, still in their original design dating from 1694, have extensive topiary, giant beech hedges, herbaceous borders, flower beds, a fountain garden and vegetable garden.

For the second tour, we begin by visiting the very impressive Leighton Hall and Gardens near Carnforth, the historic family home of the famous Gillow furniture-making family. You will enjoy a fascinating tour of the house in the company of Mrs Suzie Reynolds, the owner of Leighton Hall who will reveal intriguing stories about the house and former family members who once lived there. In the afternoon we visit the historic town of Kirby Lonsdale, renowned for its photogenic charm. Situated on the western edge of The Dales National Park, the town has a delightful market square, quaint streets lined with historic buildings, independent shops and cafes and lovely views of the Dales.

The final tour of the holiday takes us to Bowness on Lake Windermere where our visit is followed by a memorable cruise to Ambleside, which we approach against the spectacular backdrop of the Cumbrian Mountains. Ambleside is surrounded by beautiful fells and woodland and has plenty of excellent shops and restaurants as well as the amazing Bridge House. The tour in the Lake District finishes with a drive alongside Coniston Water.

The outward journey will include a visit to Harrogate and we make a lunchtime stop in Wetherby on the homeward journey.

The excellent Holiday Inn Hotel, Lancaster is ideally situated for this tour and is less than a 30- minute drive from both the Lake District National Park and the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

Your Hotel: Holiday Inn Hotel, Lancaster

Holiday Price: £335.00 per person sharing a twin/double room £60.00 supplement for single occupancy of a twin/double room

Deposit: £40.00 per person

All payments for this holiday to be made payable to “Avanti Coach Travel Trust Fund”.

Included in your holiday price: ❖ Four nights’ accommodation with full English breakfast and three course dinner with tea/coffee ❖ All rooms en-suite with TV, telephone, hairdryer and beverage facilities. ❖ The hotel has a lift to all floors ❖ All coach travel and tours including admission/boat costs as follows: - Cartmel – Levens Hall (including admission) - Leighton Hall (including admission) – Kirby Lonsdale - Bowness – Lake Windermere Cruise (inc. fare) – Ambleside – Coniston Water - Visit to Harrogate on outward journey and Wetherby on homeward journey ITALIAN & FRENCH RIVIERA ALASSIO, MONACO & MONTE CARLO

Sunday 30th September to Sunday 7th October, 2018 (8 days)

Once a flourishing fishing village, Alassio has become one of the most elegant resorts on the Italian Riviera and the town is in an ideal location for seeing the best of this beautiful region. Situated on the Riviera di Ponente coast, about 50 miles from the French border, Alassio is in an area of natural beauty and is best known for its scenic views and its two miles of lovely beach that slopes gently into the sea. The excellent family-run Hotel Toscana is just a short walk from the beach and the main shopping area.

After two days of travelling, you can enjoy the first day in our resort exploring Alassio. Our second day takes us to Monaco and Monte Carlo. Our guide will give us an insight into the history of this principality, which is renowned for its enormous wealth, and how it owes much to Prince Rainier and his wife Princess Grace, both of whom are buried at Monaco Cathedral. Monaco is less than two square kilometres in size and provides the most glamorous little stretch of land in the world. In the afternoon we head down to the lavish surroundings of Monte Carlo, famous for its casino and street-staged Grand Prix. Monte Carlo attracts the rich and famous and visitors find it an excellent place for people-watching!

Our next tour takes us first to Dolceacqua, a delightful old village in the Nervia Valley and close to the French border. With ancient stone houses on narrow paved alleys, an attractive humpback bridge over a scenic river and a castle overlooking the village, Dolceacqua makes an enjoyable change from the busy coastal towns and villages. Monet used the village scenes for many of his paintings. The tour continues with a visit to San Remo, situated between Genoa and the French border. La Pigna is the oldest part of this beautiful city, with tiny streets and covered alleyways leading up to the gardens and sanctuary above.

The final tour is a morning visit to Diano Marina, a popular seaside town about 10 miles from Alassio. There is plenty to see and do here, including a visit to the City Museum which has many finds from pre-Roman and Roman times as well as many items from the Napoleonic era. There will be free time in Alassio in the afternoon.

The journey to and from Italy will include an overnight stop in Dijon, France. Channel crossings will be by Eurotunnel.

Your Hotel: Hotel Toscana, Alassio, Italy – 5 nights Armony Hotel, Dijon, France – 2 nights – overnight hotel

Holiday Price: £599.00 per person sharing a twin/double room £130.00 single supplement

Deposit: £50.00 per person

All payments for this holiday to be made payable to “Avanti Coach Travel Trust Fund”.

Included in your holiday price: ❖ Seven nights’ accommodation with breakfast and three course dinner ❖ All rooms en-suite with TV, telephone and beverage facilities (main hotel). The hotels both have a lift. ❖ Channel crossings by Eurotunnel ❖ All coach travel and tours as follows: - There will be a full day at leisure in the resort, Alassio - Guided tour of Monaco and Monte Carlo - Excursion visiting Dolceaqua and San Remo - Excursion visiting Diano Marina

A FULL PASSPORT AND HOLIDAY INSURANCE ARE ESSENTIAL FOR THIS HOLIDAY LOVELY LANCASHIRE & TEA IN THE BALLROOM

Monday 15th October to Friday 19th October, 2018 (5 days) Article XV. Once again we return to the delightful Clifton Park Hotel in Lytham St Anne’s for this attractive five day autumn holiday to Lancashire which includes a memorable visit to the spectacular Blackpool Tower Ballroom. With magnificent Victorian architecture, this is the perfect place to sit back and relax or take a whirl on the famous dance floor. Your visit also includes a fabulous early afternoon tea with a delicate finger sandwich selection, a traditional scone with jam and cream and a choice of homemade cakes, all served with English Breakfast Tea or freshly ground coffee. During the afternoon there will be dancing and the wonderful sound of the mighty Wurlitzer which rises up from the Organ Pit. If you did not wish to spend all your time in the Ballroom, then you could visit the Winter Gardens or the new Houndshill Shopping Centre which are both adjacent to Blackpool Tower. During the holiday you will also enjoy an evening two-way tour through the dazzling illuminations along Blackpool’s seafront.

There will be two further excursions, the first of which will be to the Victorian resort of Southport on the Sefton coast where Lord Street, with its tree-lined and canopied boulevard, has every type of shop that you could wish to find on a high street. On the return journey you can enjoy afternoon refreshments at the excellent Barton Grange Garden and Home Centre, situated a few miles north of Preston.

Our remaining tour takes us into the beautiful scenery of the Ribble Valley where we make a market day visit to the historic town of Clitheroe. After free time in the town, we welcome our tour guide, Simon, on board the coach who will then take us on a fascinating and panoramic tour of the beautiful villages and countryside that will include stories and legends that have evolved in and around the Ribble Valley and the Forest of Bowland.

Your Hotel: Clifton Park Hotel, Lytham St Anne’s

Holiday Price: £329.00 per person sharing a twin/double room No supplement for occupancy of a single bedded room £40.00 supplement for single occupancy of a double room

Deposit: £40.00 per person

All payments for this holiday to be made payable to “Avanti Coach Travel Trust Fund”.

Included in your holiday price: ❖ Four nights’ accommodation with full breakfast and four course dinner ❖ All rooms en-suite with TV, telephone and beverage facilities. The hotel has a lift ❖ Use of the hotel’s heated indoor swimming pool. Evening entertainment ❖ All coach travel, tours and any fares/entry costs for the following: - The Blackpool Tower Ballroom with Afternoon Tea - Clitheroe and guided tour of the Ribble Valley & Forest of Bowland - Southport and Lord Street - Barton Grange Garden and Home Centre - Evening excursion through Blackpool Illuminations

LONGLEAT FESTIVAL OF LIGHT CHEDDAR GORGE & CLARK’S VILLAGE

Friday 9th November to Monday 12th November, 2018 (4 days)

An exciting new tourArticle which includesXVI. the spectacular Festival of Light at Longleat and Cheddar Gorge – one of Britain’s most well-known natural locations.

At Longleat there are 30 acres of stunning Chinese lanterns that light up to transform the park into a glowing winter wonderland. The lanterns are positioned around the formal gardens and the main Square and they are turned on as darkness falls around 4:00 pm when they make a truly memorable and dazzling display. Longleat is of course known worldwide as the first place outside Africa to open a drive-through Safari (1966) as well as having a prestigious Elizabethan stately home. You will be able to enjoy both during our visit which begins with the drive-through Safari where animals such as lions, tigers, cheetahs, wolves, rhinos, monkeys and many more reside. Fabulous Longleat House will be dressed in Edwardian festive décor and open for you to explore at your own pace. Guides in traditional costumes will be there to interact with visitors. You can also enjoy a wander through the gardens where you will see a 50 foot performing Christmas tree which tells a magical story alongside an amazing light and music projection.

The second tour of the holiday begins with a visit to Cheddar Gorge, a spectacular natural landmark with towering cliffs and extraordinary subterranean show caves that reveal many fascinating secrets about our prehistoric ancestors. Although there will be time to explore the caves, we have not included the entry cost in the holiday price as we realise that not everyone would wish or be able to participate. However, we have arranged an included visit to the Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company for a guided tour around the factory, at the end of which you can sample (and buy) the delicious cheeses that are made there. This is the only place where Cheddar Cheese is made in Cheddar. In the afternoon we travel to the small town of Street near Glastonbury to visit the excellent shopping outlet at Clark’s Village. Here you will find around 90 High Street store brands but with up to 60% off high street prices. Stores include Gap, North Face, Joules, Whistles, M & S and Calvin Klein underwear.

On the outward journey, you can enjoy lunch and sightseeing in Worcester where you can visit the famous Cathedral and the historic High Street.

Your Hotel: Best Western Gables Hotel, Falfield, near Bristol

Holiday Price: £290.00 per person sharing a twin/double room £45.00 supplement for single occupancy of a twin/double room

Deposit: £40.00 per person

All payments for this holiday to be made payable to “Avanti Coach Travel Trust Fund”.

Included in your holiday price: ❖ Three nights’ accommodation with full English breakfast and three course dinner with tea/coffee ❖ All rooms en-suite with TV, telephone, hairdryer and beverage facilities. The hotel has a lift. ❖ All coach travel, tours and visits as follows: - Admission to Longleat House & gardens, Festival of Light and Safari Park - Visit to Cheddar Gorge and admission to the Cheddar Cheese Company Factory Tour - Visit to Clark’s Village, Street near Glastonbury - Visit to Worcester on outward journey

TURKEY & TINSEL FESTIVE FUN

AT WARNERS, ISLE OF WIGHT

Monday 19th November to Friday 23rd November, 2018 (5 days)

Few hotels in Britain can offer a finer setting and more stunning views than the delightful Warners Bembridge Coast Hotel on the Isle of Wight. Situated at the eastern-most point on the island the original property was once owned by King George V’s Lord in Waiting and the late Queen Mother came here to watch the yacht racing that takes place during Cowes week. The hotel, which has its own beach where you can enjoy coastal walks, has comfortable and well-furnished rooms and is ideally situated for exploring the island and visiting some of its well-known places and attractions.

You can rest assured that you will enjoy a fantastic Turkey & Tinsel break with all the traditional festive fun and games that you would expect from Warners. With Christmas and New Year rolled into one, we arrive on “Christmas Eve” and, after a good night’s sleep you’ll enjoy Christmas Day with all the trimmings including a visit from Santa! On Wednesday you can enjoy traditional Boxing Day fun before beginning the countdown to the New Year on Thursday evening which ends, of course, with “Auld Lang Syne”!

Warners is renowned for its superb live entertainment each evening you can expect to see a fabulous West-End style show, a bit of panto, top comedy acts and talented vocalists. Every night there will be plenty of opportunity to enjoy dancing on the superb ballroom floor. There are numerous activities that you can enjoy during the day. You could take a dip in the warm swimming pool, relax in the spa, play a little tennis, enjoy a game of snooker, join in a yoga class or go for a good long coastal walk. Alternatively, you can just sit back, relax, read a book or just watch the world go by!

On this holiday, one thing is certain – you will not go hungry! Delicious breakfasts and sumptuous three course evening meals are served in the Four Tides Restaurant. The tempting menus offer an amazing choice including vegetarian and gluten free options. If you stay at the hotel during the day, food and drink is always available to be purchased from one of the bars or cafes.

Although there is plenty to do at the hotel, we will be including a half-day excursion each day. These include visits to Godshill and Busy Bee Christmas World and a scenic island tour that will include a stop for refreshments.

When your holiday is all over, there is something important to remember – you still have Christmas to look forward to!

Your Hotel: Warners Bembridge Coast Hotel, Isle of Wight Holiday Price: £320.00 per person sharing a Standard Room £340.00 per person sharing a Signature Room No supplement for single-bedded room but limited availability £60.00 supplement for single occupancy of a double room Deposit: £40.00 per person

All payment for this holiday to be made payable to “Avanti Coach Travel Trust Fund”.

Included in your holiday price: ❖ Four nights’ accommodation with three course dinner and full English breakfast ❖ All rooms en-suite with TV, telephone, hairdryer and beverage facilities. There is a lift to all floors. ❖ Leisure facilities and nightly entertainment as described above ❖ Return ferry crossings ❖ All coach travel and three half-day excursions with visits to: - Godshill, Busy Bee Christmas World and a scenic island tour YORK CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL &

CHRISTM AS AT CASTLE HOWARD

Monday 26th November to Thursday 29th November, 2018 (4 days)

Article XVII. York’s Christmas Festival brings a special bit of magic to the historic streets of the city for the five weeks leading up to Christmas. Several of the city’s streets, including Parliament Street, St Sampson’s Square and Coppergate, will have dozens of decorated wooden chalets, with Victorian-costumed traders adding to the atmosphere. Top quality gifts, crafts and locally produced food will be on offer and you will also experience the delicious smells of roasting chestnuts and other fabulous festive food and drink. The lovely shops and other attractions in York will all be entering into the festive spirit and York Castle Museum has a recreated Victorian street, Kirkgate, where traditional garlands, a glistening Christmas tree and decorated shop windows will all take you back in time. As you wander through the street visiting the various shops, Victorian residents will be waiting to show you how Christmas would have been celebrated 100 years ago.

In addition to your day in York you will also enjoy a visit to one of England’s finest historic houses for their splendid “Christmas at Castle Howard” event. Castle Howard, near Malton in Yorkshire will have on display glorious floral creations and other wonderful decorations that draw attention to the superb architecture and interiors and they produce a spectacular effect in the grand state rooms with their art collections and other priceless items. In the Great Hall you will see the soaring Christmas tree, tastefully decorated in keeping with its surroundings. “Christmas at Castle Howard” also includes live music around the house, seasonal menus in the restaurant and festive afternoon tea by the fireside in the Grecian Hall. There are also Christmas gifts and treats galore in the gift shops, farm shop, plant centre and the cosy indoor market. Your day will also include an afternoon visit to the nearby market town of Malton. This has been the historic centre of Ryedale since the Romans established a legionary fort here in AD70. Malton has a great number of independent shops as well as familiar High Street names and this creates a vibrant retail profile in the town.

The journey to York will include a break for lunch and some free time in Lincoln.

We stay at the delightful Parsonage Hotel and Spa in the small village of Escrick just five miles south of York. Situated in its own extensive grounds, the hotel offers excellent accommodation, food and service and you will have free use of the hotel’s heated indoor pool.

Your Hotel: Parsonage Hotel, Escrick, near York

Holiday Price: £245.00 per person sharing a twin/double room £45.00 supplement for single occupancy of a twin/double room

Deposit: £40.00 per person

All payments for this holiday to be made payable to “Avanti Coach Travel Trust Fund”.

Included in your holiday price: ❖ Three nights’ accommodation with full English breakfast and three course dinner with tea/coffee ❖ All rooms en-suite with TV, hairdryer and beverage facilities. The hotel has a lift ❖ Use of the hotel’s indoor swimming pool ❖ Porterage on arrival and departure ❖ All coach travel, excursions and costs for the following: - A day in York for the Christmas Festival - Excursion to Castle Howard (including admission) and Malton - Visit to Lincoln on outward journey

DUTCH & GERMAN CHRISTMAS MARKETS VALKENBURG – MAASTRICHT - AACHEN

ThursdayArticle 6 thXVIII. December to Monday 10th December, 2018 (5 days)

This fantastic five day festive holiday brings you three wonderful locations, all with a real magical Christmas atmosphere and superb Christmas Markets. The delightful Dutch town of Valkenburg is not only a great base for the holiday, it is also a town that is beautifully decorated and unrivalled for its Christmas shopping. Not only are the shops full of top quality Christmas gifts but the famous marlstone caves under Valkenburg are transformed into a magical underground Christmas Market. As you wander through this amazing underground grotto you will see dozens of stands offering Christmas gifts and other luxuries including many unique handcrafted items. At 7:30 pm on Saturday evening the enchanting Christmas Parade, with illuminated Christmas floats and beautifully costumed dancers, makes its way through the streets of Valkenburg.

The nearby city of Maastricht on the River Meuse has a wonderful atmosphere all year round but this gets even better at this time of the year with the Christmas Market, ice skating rink and ferris wheel in Vrijthof Square. The streets of Maastricht are bustling with people enjoying the festive atmosphere and there are plenty of excellent shopping opportunities in the city and the Christmas Market. If you are looking for refreshments, then you are spoilt for choice with numerous stalls in Vrijthof Square and the surrounding streets offering delicious seasonal food and drink.

For our third Christmas Market we cross the border to visit Germany’s oldest city, Aachen. Set around the Cathedral and Town Hall, this lovely Christmas Market has everything you could want, with colourful stalls offering superb gifts and decorations and chalets selling local traditional food and drink such as potato fritters, Aachen Printen (a kind of gingerbread), marzipan bread and, of course, the warming gluwein!

We stay at the excellent Hotel Schaepkens van St Fijt, situated just a few minutes walk from Valkenburg town centre.

Your Hotel: Hotel Schaepkens van St Fijt, Valkenburg

Holiday Price: £349.00 per person sharing a twin/double room £80.00 single supplement

Deposit: £50.00 per person

All payments for this holiday to be made payable to “Avanti Coach Travel Trust Fund”.

Included in your holiday price: ❖ Four nights’ accommodation with breakfast and three course dinner ❖ All rooms en-suite with TV and telephone. The hotel has a lift to all floors. ❖ Channel crossings via Eurotunnel ❖ All coach travel and excursions as follows: - Visit to Maastrict and the Christmas Market - Visit to Aachen and the Christmas Market - Valkenburg Christmas Markets and caves (small admission charge)

A FULL PASSPORT AND HOLIDAY INSURANCE ARE ESSENTIAL FOR THIS HOLIDAY

CHRISTMAS IN COUNTY DURHAM

Sunday 23rd December to Thursday 27th December, 2018 (5 days)

For our 2018 Christmas holiday we head north to County Durham and the Redworth Hall Hotel. This excellent 4 star hotel, situated three miles south-east of Bishop Auckland, is an imposing 17th century manor house that still retains many of its original features. Set in 150 acres of wooded grounds, the majestic Redworth Hall Hotel enjoys a long-standing reputation for providing some of the very best facilities that can be found anywhere in England as well as excellent service and superb food. This welcoming hotel, with impressive reception, bar and restaurant areas, has a style and elegance that sets it apart from many other hotels. The very comfortable and well-equipped bedrooms have all the facilities that you would expect from a 4 star hotel and guests have free use of the hotel’s beautiful indoor swimming pool, sauna and steam room.

The hotel’s Christmas programme, starting with afternoon tea and scones when we arrive on 23rd December, also includes musical entertainment each evening, carols in the Great Hall on Christmas Eve, a photo quiz and “Redworth Races” (in-house fun races) on Boxing Day afternoon. Santa will pay a visit during your four course Christmas lunch and cocktails will be served before the four course Boxing Day Gala Dinner.

The hotel’s full Christmas programme will be available from the beginning of August 2018.

In addition to the hotel’s programme, we have included two optional short excursions in the holiday price. The first will be on Christmas Eve morning when there will be a two-hour excursion to the nearby town of Barnard Castle and the second will be on Boxing Day morning when we enjoy a scenic tour in the Durham Dales.

Your Hotel: Redworth Hall Hotel, near Bishop Auckland (4 star)

Holiday Price: £540.00 per person sharing a twin/double room £80.00 supplement for single occupancy of a twin/double room

Deposit: £40.00 per person

All payments for this holiday are to be made payable to “Avanti Coach Travel Trust Fund”.

Included in your holiday price: ❖ Four nights’ full-board accommodation including a traditional four-course lunch on Christmas Day ❖ Tea/coffee is served after each meal ❖ All rooms en-suite with TV, telephone, hairdryer and beverage facilities ❖ The hotel has a lift to all floors. Porterage is provided on arrival and departure ❖ The hotel’s Christmas programme of events which includes entertainment each evening ❖ Complimentary tea/coffee and scones on arrival ❖ Two excursions – The town of Barnard Castle and a tour in the Durham Dales Avanti Coach Holidays

We are pleased to bring you our 2018 Holiday Brochure. As usual, we offer a good selection of short breaks and holidays to some of the finest destinations in the UK and Ireland and this year we also include holidays to the Italian Riviera, Holland and Valkenburg. Destinations for some of the well established and very popular holidays are featured once again this year. However, some of these holidays have new itineraries that include new visitor attractions and places of interest.

We continue to select hotels which are well located, have either a 3 or 4 star rating and which we know offer comfortable accommodation, top quality food and good, all round customer service.

We remain committed to providing our customers with a friendly and personal service and we are confident that you will find that our holidays offer excellent value for money.

When travelling to our holiday destinations we make regular breaks during the journeys and often these stops will be made at places of interest rather than at motorway services. Customers can be assured that, on leaving Norfolk, we do not make any further stops to transfer passengers and luggage between coaches.

We offer several departure points for all our holidays and general details of these can be found in the section “Holiday Departure Points” near the bottom of the page headed “How to Book Your Holiday”.

Our coaches are air-conditioned and have on-board toilet/washroom facilities. For your additional comfort and safety our coaches also have reclining seats with seat belts and there is generous legroom in all seats. Please note: it is a legal requirement for seat belts to be worn.

We hope that you will find something of interest among our selection of holidays. If you would like further information about a particular hotel or holiday before booking, please call us during office hours.

If you would like to book a holiday, please read carefully the information on the following two pages and then call us during office hours on Norwich (01603) 717488.

We look forward to seeing you during 2018!

OFFICE HOURS – Monday to Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. Telephone Norwich (01603) 717488.

Financial Security All our holidays and short breaks are subject to the Package Travel, Package Holiday and Package Tour Regulations 1992. All holiday payments are held in a designated Trust Account until the satisfactory completion of the holiday for which you have booked. This is the protection required by EEC Directive 90/314/EC and fully safeguards customers’ money in the event of the insolvency of, or non-performance by, the tour operator.

Important information – Please read carefully.

Holiday Payments

To comply with current legislation, all holiday monies paid are held in a “Trust Fund” Account. This account is fully administered by a firm of solicitors. By law, we are not allowed to hold or have access to your holiday payments until after the holiday has been completed, when the trustees, who are four solicitors in the company operating the Trust Fund, can authorise payments to be made.

All your holiday payments are to be made payable to “Avanti Coach Travel Trust Fund”.

Cheques must not include payments for more than one holiday destination. Therefore, if you book two different holidays at the same time, two deposit cheques are required.

Holiday Insurance

By law, Avanti Coach Travel is not able to sell, or make recommendations about holiday insurance. However, Greatdays Holiday Services Ltd. are authorised to offer the Coach Plus Travel Insurance Policy which many of our customers have purchased in the past. If you wish to obtain cover under the Coach Plus Policy, then you should inform us when making your booking and we will forward an insurance application form for you to complete and return direct with your payment, to Greatdays Holiday Services Ltd, at the address shown on the form. If you require further information about the policy you must contact Greatdays Holiday Services Ltd. direct either by letter or by calling them on 0161 928 9966.

Please note that for all holidays outside Great Britain, all our customers are required to have appropriate holiday insurance. We also strongly recommend that you obtain insurance cover for holidays within the U.K. Please ensure that your insurance is effective for the period between booking and the holiday departure date as well as for the duration of the holiday itself.

Fair Trading Agreement You are advised to read carefully the information provided in our “Fair Trading Agreement” which can be found at the back of this brochure.

OBTAINING MEDICAL TREATMENT IN OTHER EC COUNTRIES

It is strongly recommended that each person travelling to other EC countries obtains and carries a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) which entitles you to reduced cost, and sometimes free, health treatment under the same terms as residents in the country that you are visiting.

You can apply for the European Health Insurance Card either on-line at www.dh.gov.uk/travellers or by telephoning EHIC Application Service on 0300 330 1350.

The EHIC is not a substitute for travel insurance. Since it may not cover all health costs and never covers repatriation costs in the event of illness or injury, you are advised to take out travel insurance cover in addition to the EHIC. State-provided treatment in some EC countries may not cover all treatments that you would expect to receive free of charge from the N.H.S.

Further information, including a full list of countries covered, along with details of their health care schemes, can be found on-line at www.dh.gov.uk/travellers.

PLEASE ENSURE THAT YOUR PASSPORT AND EHIC ARE VALID

FOR THE DURATION OF YOUR HOLIDAY. How to Book Your Holiday

Please read carefully

(i) To book a holiday, call Avanti Coach Travel on Norwich (01603) 717488 between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm Monday to Friday and between 9:00 am and 12 noon on Saturdays. Availability will be confirmed and a provisional booking made, including the reservation of your choice of available coach seat(s).

(ii) The booking will not be confirmed by us until you have completed and returned your booking form together with your payment for the deposit. If the booking form and deposit are not received within fourteen days of the date on which the provisional booking was made, then the provisional booking will be cancelled.

(iii) Where holidays are booked to more than one destination, separate cheques are required for the deposit payments for each holiday. Cheques for all deposit and balance payments are to be made payable to “Avanti Coach Travel Trust Fund”.

(iv) When we receive your booking form and deposit payment, we will confirm your booking and your seat number(s) on the coach. Our written acceptance of the booking creates a contract between you and Avanti Coach Travel. An invoice, showing details of the holiday price, amount paid and the balance owing, will also be sent to you at this time. This invoice will be due for payment no later than six weeks before the departure date. Final details, including an itinerary and luggage labels will be sent to you between one and two weeks before your holiday.

(v) Six weeks prior to the departure date of a holiday, an evaluation is made to determine whether the number of people who have booked is considered to be sufficient to make the tour financially viable to operate, (with or without those who have booked agreeing to pay a supplement), or whether the tour is to be cancelled. Early booking will therefore help to ensure that the holiday goes ahead as planned and it will give you a better opportunity to reserve your choice of seat(s). Therefore, whenever possible please book your holiday at least six weeks prior to the date of departure.

(vi) Customers taking more than one holiday with us during 2018 will qualify for a discount of £10.00 on the price of the second and any subsequent holiday during 2018 and which is advertised in this brochure. Where the date of the second and/or subsequent holiday booked is earlier in the year than the first holiday booked, the discount will be given against the second and any subsequent holiday taken. Where necessary an amended invoice will be sent.

HOLIDAY DEPARTURE POINTS

We have a number of local departure points for all holidays. These cover an area which includes Acle, Brundall, Blofield, Blofield Heath, Little Plumstead, Salhouse, Rackheath, Thorpe End and Thorpe St. Andrew with central pick-up points in Norwich at Castle Meadow and St Stephens. We also have pick-up points in Hethersett, Wymondham and Attleborough. Depending on the destination of the holiday, further pick-up points may be arranged on request either along, or close to, the route that the coach takes on leaving Norwich.

If you wish to book a holiday but have difficulty in getting to and from one of our departure points, please mention this when booking as we may be able to help.

COACH SEATING PLAN

4 8 12 16 20 toilet 28 32 36 40 44 48 3 7 11 15 19 27 31 35 39 43 47

2 6 10 14 18 22 24 26 30 34 38 42 46 1 5 9 13 17 21 23 25 29 33 37 41 45

FAIR TRADING AGREEMENT HOLIDAYS ARE OPERATED SOLEY BY AVANTI COACH TRAVEL

Payment of Deposit and Balance Your deposit and balance payments are to be made payable to “Avanti Coach Travel Trust Fund” as indicated in the holiday brochure. Your contract with Avanti Coach Travel is protected by the Trust Account. All of your holiday payments (except insurance) will be held in trust until the contract has been fully performed. Following receipt of your deposit, you will receive a Holiday Invoice showing the balance outstanding. PLEASE NOTE, NO OTHER INVOICE WILL BE SENT. This invoice must be paid at least six weeks before the holiday departure date. Cancellation by you within six weeks prior to the departure date could make you liable for cancellation charges up to 100 % of the outstanding balance. In any event, cancellation at any time will result in the loss of deposit. Holiday insurance could protect you from losing the balance payment - for example where cancellation is due to certified health reasons.

If We Change Your Booking The advertised content of a holiday is made months in advance and changes are sometimes unavoidable. Most of these changes are however very minor, but where they are significant we will notify you as soon as is reasonably possible before your departure date. A significant change would be regarded as changes in the departure date, departure point or resort area, reducing the quality of your main hotel (not single overnight hotels on touring holidays) or a change of tour itinerary which involves a destination being completely eliminated from the revised itinerary. In the event of a significant change you may decide to: a) continue with the holiday as amended or b) accept an alternative holiday which we may offer to you or c) cancel your booking.

If you choose a) or b) we will pay compensation on the scale below. If you choose c) we will refund all monies paid by you, plus compensation on the scale below. No other claims for compensation or expenses will be considered.

Period Before Departure within which a Significant Change is Notified to You Compensation will be paid per person as follows: More than 42 days nil 28 - 42 days £10.00 l5 - 27 days £15.00 8 - 4 days £20.00 1 - 7 days £25.00

If We Cancel Your Booking We reserve the right in any circumstances to cancel your booking, giving you six weeks notification (except in circumstances beyond our control) and a full refund of all monies paid. However, should the acceptable minimum number of places on the tour not be reached we will offer you: a) a full refund or b) a comparable alternative or c) a supplement to pay in order to operate the tour with a minimum number of persons.

Delays in the Journey We cannot be held responsible for any delays in road journeys or tunnel/ferry crossings, whether caused by bad weather or other unforeseen circumstances. In the event of a delay, you will be responsible for paying for any additional meals and accommodation that may arise.

Security and Repatriation (for overseas tours only) The total cost of your holiday will be held in trust until the holiday has been completed. In the case of insolvency during any stage of the holiday all legal and operational requirements are in place to repatriate all passengers to their point of origination by providing a replacement coach and, if necessary a ferry crossing.

Passport and Visa Requirements (for overseas tours only) UK passport holders need only a passport to visit EC countries. Please advise if you hold a non-UK passport as you may be prevented from travel without the proper visas and documentation, according to the Carrier Liability Act.

Health Formalities (for visits to other EC countries or Switzerland) You must obtain and carry with you at all times the new European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). This replaces form E111 which has been withdrawn. Application forms for the card are obtainable from Post Offices. The EHIC entitles you to reduced cost, and sometimes free, health treatment under the same terms as people that live in the country you are visiting. The EHIC is not a substitute for European travel insurance.

If You Have a Problem The operator of this tour is Avanti Coach Travel, 26 Heath Way, Blofield Heath, Norwich, NR13 4RS. TeI: 01603 717488 Your driver / courier will be able to assist with any problems during the journey.

Our Responsibility We accept responsibility for ensuring that each part of the holiday booked with us is supplied as described in our literature and to a reasonable standard. In the event that any part is not provided as described and has affected the enjoyment of your holiday, please remember: i) some amenities (e.g. hotel lifts, swimming pools etc.) require servicing and cleaning and may not therefore be available at all times. Some services may be affected by weather conditions and their availability is entirely at the discretion of the provider of the service. Entertainment provided by hotels is frequently subject to demand and its nature and/or frequency may be varied if there is lack of demand or insufficient numbers staying in the hotel. ii) some excursion itineraries include the use of ferries and other forms of transport which can be affected by inclement weather, and may have to be cancelled or arrangements changed. Whenever possible a suitable alternative excursion will be offered. iii) the published running times of services are estimates only and we will not be liable for any loss (howsoever caused) arising from the delay or failure to operate services in accordance with published timings. We make every effort to ensure that proper arrangements have been made for all holidays advertised in our brochure and that the suppliers of the services that you will enjoy during your holiday are efficient and reputable. We accept responsibility for any deficiencies in the services we are contractually obliged to provide. We shall not be held responsible for death, bodily injury or illness caused by activities engaged in, which are outside the scope of the holiday itinerary. If necessary, please follow our complaints procedure - see below.

Surcharges There may be circumstances beyond our control which cause an increase in the holiday cost. We will not pass on any increase less than 2% which occurs after the printing of this brochure. We reserve the right to make a surcharge for increases larger than 2 % if they occur more than 6 weeks before travel. You will be given the option of cancelling without penalty 6 weeks before travel.

Cancellation Charges If you cancel your holiday this incurs administrative costs and potential loss of income. Cancellation charges will therefore be levied as follows:

More than 42 days before travel loss of deposit 28 - 42 days before travel 30% of balance 14 - 27 days before travel 45% of balance 7 - 13 days before travel 60% of balance 6 days or less before travel 100% of balance

Transfer of Booking If a customer is prevented from travelling for any reason, the booking may be transferred to another person, provided a minimum of 2 weeks notice is given.

Holiday Insurance Holiday travel insurance is essential for holidays outside the UK and it is strongly recommended for holidays in the UK. You must arrange your own insurance direct with the insurance company or Appointed Representative of your choice. If you wish to apply for Coach Plus Travel Insurance, the holiday insurance that was previously arranged for customers, you must apply direct to Greatdays Holiday Services Ltd, 2 Stamford Park Road, Altrincham, Cheshire, WA15 9EN. Tel: 0161 928 9966.

Financial Protection Holidays are operated soley by Avanti Coach Travel. We can confirm that all passenger monies paid are deposited in a trust account which has been established by solicitors and which conforms with the requirements of the Package Travel, Package Holiday and Package Tour Regulations 1992. This is the protection required by law for all passengers’ money. Once you have paid for your holiday, your money is deposited in the relevant trust account where it is held until the completion of the holiday for which you have booked.

Complaints Procedure Should you have any reason to feel that we have not met our obligations, please put your comments in writing, within one month of return, quoting the tour and departure date, to:

AVANTI COACH TRAVEL, 26 HEATH WAY, BLOFIELD HEATH, NORWICH, NR13 4RS. TELEPHONE: 01603 717488

Avanti Travel Vouchers

Not sure what to buy friends or relatives as a birthday or other anniversary present? Then why not buy them one of our travel vouchers which can be used against the cost of any of our day excursions or holidays. These can be supplied for any amount in multiples of £10.00. Please call us for details on 01603 717488.

Private Coach Hire

We can provide quotations for group holidays and excursions, often at competitive prices. We can also help with itineraries and offer suggestions on places to visit. We can also offer advice on suitable, good value hotels for your group.

E-Mail Addresses

You will note that we have included a line on our booking form for an e-mail address. If you have one, this would be very useful for us to contact you and to send you confirmation of bookings, holiday invoices and a receipt for holiday payments. This would also help us to reduce our ever-increasing postage costs.