Travel & Hospitality Awards | Europe Awards 2018 | www.thawards.com

TRAVEL &
HOSPITALITY
AWARDS
EUROPE
2018
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TEAM
CEO
Dennis Mayhew
Contents
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Katherine Lozell
ART DIRECTOR
Marcs Bacera
DIRECTOR OF SALES
Stanley Lucas
AWARDS DIRECTOR
Brian Anson
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING
Zoe Watkins
SENIOR WRITERS
Tasmai Dave
Jacqui Irvine
Joseph Wilton
SENIOR DESIGNERS
Antoine Jackson
Dave Chen
AWARDS MANAGERS
Adam Cole
Joseph Malabanan
Zach Ford
Peter Clement
RESEARCH MANAGERS
Costin Marcel
Sarah Patel
CONTIBUTING WRITERS
Tracy Morgan
Kim Feldmann de Britto
Joseph Malabanan
Aisha Ahmed
Criteria4
Culinary Delights8
7 Wonders of Europe30
Northern Europe42
Iceland44
Iceland Air 49
Western Europe60
Alpine Lake Towns 62
Made in Bern 74
French Top 5 80
Juan Juarez Valdes 86
Amsterdam Event Calender 90
Austria 102
Hamburg | Germany 110
Southern Europe114
Portugal 116
Barcelona 128
Adriana Q&A Barcelona 132
A Maltese Summer 136
Italy 144
Adventure in Italy 146
Road Trip : Santa Maria to Rapello 156
Sicily 170
Santorini Vs Mykonos 174
One day in Tel Aviv 182
Eastern Europe 188
Albania 190
Rise of Croatia 194
Russia : 2018 FIFA World Cup 202
The United Kingdom & Ireland 210
The Royal Wedding 212
British Airways i360 218
Scotland 226
The Dublin Top 10 232
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CRITERIA
Excellence in Service is an important category, as customer
service can often be responsible for having guests return
year after year. We look for the hotels and tour operators
that go out of their way to please their guests, those that
provide a personal level of service and take the time to
get to know each visitor so that they might anticipate their
every need. This can be something as simple as a 24-hour
concierge desk, a hotel manager who offers a personal
greeting or a tour guide who is happy to create bespoke
private tours – but whatever it is, we are always pleased
when we encounter staff that have been trained in the art of
customer satisfaction.
Service
It is no question that style and design plays a big part in
selecting our awards shortlist. A guest will form an opinion
about a hotel as soon as they arrive so it is important to
us that all our winners make those first impressions count.
We’re certainly not partial to a particular period of
architecture – but whether we’re judging a gothic castle or
an environmentally friendly lodge, the criteria remains the
same. We consider factors such as architectural features,
use of materials, creation of spaces, décor and the overall
feel. We love it when we find a hotel that tells a story
though its design and construction, or offers a design that is
sympathetic to the natural surroundings of its location.
Style & Design
Knowledge of the local area is essential for any organization,
be it a hotel or a tour operator. The quality of services takes
a great hit when the quality of this element is not up to
the mark. Quite a few of our winners in this category are
because they have displayed excellent knowledge about the
surrounding areas. The criteria for a hotel is slightly lenient
compared to a tour operator, as the latter is expected to
have thorough knowledge of the area in order to provide
good services.
Image by: Annie Spratt
Local Knowledge
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Facilities
Award-winning guest rooms come in all shapes and sizes,
but they all have one thing in common – a home-away-fromhome
feel. The comfort of the facilities on offer are of vital
importance; we look for luxurious linens, stylish bathrooms
and a coordinated colour scheme that work together to
create a cohesive sense of relaxation. Additional touches,
such as complimentary toiletries, free wi-fi or tea and coffee
making facilities are always a bonus in making us feel
welcome. We’re always impressed to find hotel rooms that
embrace technology and offer amenities like tablets or smart
thermostat systems, but this does not always necessarily
trump the traditional – four poster beds, ornate fireplaces
or antique furniture can add a touch of decadence to a
hotel stay.
Location
Location is one of the most important factors, but also
one of the most subjective, as the ‘ideal’ is very much
determined by the type of visitor and the type of hotel itself.
However, there a few factors we take into consideration
when determining the winners of location-based awards.
The first is convenience; that is, hotels that are easy to travel
to. Many of our winners in this category are in convenient
locations, such as adjacent to airports, close to beaches or
found in the heart of easy-to-navigate cities. We are always
impressed when hotels go the extra mile to take the hassle
out of traveling and offer such additional services as airport
shuttles or car hire services. However, we’re always excited
to come across a hotel that is, to use a familiar phrase,
off-the-beaten-track. A hotel that can offer something a little
different, in terms of natural surroundings, can make the
difference between a good holiday and an incredible one.
In today’s modern age, a hotel or tour operator cannot rely
on word of mouth to get their message out into the world. As
social media has become a vital part of everyday life, we
like to see companies that go the extra mile to engage with
their guests, both past and future. Attractive and informative
websites and engaging and honest content and what we
look for when judging a company’s use of marketing; how
well they display their services, how up-to-date their content
is, how well they get their brand message across, and, most
importantly, how well their marketing can tempt us to go
and see what they have to offer for ourselves.
What better way is there to know about an organization
than by getting first hand reviews? Customers are the best
judges of any service out there as they are the ones who
experience them and can assess whether they were up to
the mark or not. Considering reviews from hundreds of
customers gives us a fair idea about the general pros and
cons of any organization and also gives us valuable inputs
for the other criteria as well.
Marketing
Customer Feedback
Diversity is one important aspect that needs to be taken into
consideration when in the travel and hospitality industry. It
is essential to have staff that has varying diversity to ensure
that the organization can properly connect with their guests.
Diversity is taken into account in terms of gender, nationality
as well as languages spoken among other factors. Not only
do we take the diversity of the staff into account but even
that of the facilities and services offered; a hotel or tour
operator providing a better range of services is preferred
over those that do not.
It is of prime importance that an organization has thorough
industry knowledge. Without knowing the nit-bits of the
industry, it is difficult to flourish and provide services which
are a class apart. Before any organization ventures into
the industry, it is essential that they know how the industry
is moving and how they should make changes to their
methodologies in order to remain relevant and also be a
top-performing organization.
Diversity
Industry Knowledge
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CULINARY
DELIGHTS
Image by: Brenda Godinez
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France
Elegant and captivating are the two words that best describe
the city of Nice. One of the most recognised and acclaimed
cities in the world located in a mesmerising location along
the famous French Riviera in the region of Provence-
Alpes-Côte-d’Azur. The entire region is a melting pot of
Mediterranean culture and cuisine. Some would say
that the Lyonnaise cuisine is very difficult to beat since
Lyon is the cradle of French gastronomy, but the medley
of ingredients, recipes and flavours that exist in in Côted’Azur
is something to behold and enjoy with a passion.
Locals and restaurant owners are extremely passionate about
the food that is produced in their kitchens and they are not shy
to show it off.
One of the most interesting things on offer in Nice is to become part
of this passion by taking cooking classes. One particular company is
“Les Petits Farcis” run by Rosa Jackson, she offers courses to all levels
of ability. Part of the course is to visit the local fresh food markets to
sample and learn about the array of produce
and choose ingredients from the plethora
on offer including French Cheeses and
locally produced wine at local vineyards.
Then back to her remodelled and beautifully
decorated studio kitchen to prep and cook.
With good company and time to cook,
converse and sample the wine, then it is time
to devour the prepared dishes. Incredible food
and memories are to be gained by visiting
Nice.
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Spain
Spanish cuisine has an outstanding reputation worldwide and has a long history
culminating today in a phenomenon in Spanish gastronomy thanks to celebrity chefs
such as Juan Maria Arzak and Santi Santamaria. Tapas said to have originated
in Cadiz, have evolved into a sophisticated cuisine and a huge variety is on offer
including this small list:
Tortilla, typical but very satisfying Spanish omelette
with potato.
Albondigas, Spanish meatballs, typically made
with pork and in a sauce of either tomato or
almond.
You will also find regional versions of these
tapas plus many more on offer depending
on where you are in Spain and should
ideally be enjoyed with a glass of local
wine, beer or sherry. Pintxos are an adapted
version of the tapa and appeared in 1930
in Donostia, the centre of San Sebastian.
The Pintxo is a small snack offered with drink,
placed on top of a slice of the house bread and
held with a skewer.
• Tapa de Croquetas, made from ham, chicken or seafood
• Gambas al Ajillo, sizzling prawns with garlic and chili
• Bacalao, delicious salted cod, coated in breadcrumbs
• Calamares, fried squid
• Patatas Bravas, fried potato with spicy sauce
• Ensaladilla, a potato salad with tuna or prawns
• Gazpacho, served in glass, cold tomato soup topped with cucumber
• Salmorejo or Porra de Antequera, slightly thicker, and topped with egg and
ham
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Belgium
Germany
Belgium is an absolute hotbed of gastronomical delights! But a famous stalwart is
the friteries (or frituurs in Flanders). French fries are part of the Belgian culinary
and cultural heritage and it is a fact that Belgium, rather than France was the first
to create the notion of the “French Fry” as it was Belgium in the 1970s serving
this street food from the numerous friteries, with an array of wonderful sauces. It is
thought that the fries were originally a peasant food from the areas of Dinant and
Liège.
Nowadays Frites are available all day long from kiosks on street corners and main
squares and are delicious and a great source of energy to assist with sightseeing.
Another wonderful source of street food is the mitraillettes which are an American
style sandwich consisting of a baguette with a huge slab of steak, choice of sauces
and onion. Sadly not a great deal of choice for vegetarians or vegans, or if one
is concerned about cholesterol levels! But prices are reasonable, approximately
EUR5 for a sandwich and a Belgium beer. The only downside is that often there
are long queues and the food is takeaway, so you will need to find a suitable place
to sit and enjoy.
Another classic, mussels with chips, and there is no better place than
in one of the many fishing villages and towns along the coast of
Flanders, where the Belgian mussels are brought ashore. Available in
all restaurants in Flanders during mussel season.
A diverse and extensive region of Germany is the Black Forest, in the state of
Baden-Württemberg, south-west Germany.200 kilometres long and 60 kilometres
wide it is a holiday region synonymous with red pom pom hats, cuckoo clock
timber houses and the inspiration for the Brothers Grimm fairy tales Hansel and
Gretel, Sleeping Beauty and Rapunzel.Wine tasting is a popular reason to visit
the area, due to the famous wine routes bordering the enchanting hills of the Black
Forest starting from the legendary Baden-Baden.
The region reigns as the sunniest and warmest climate in Germany, with almost
Mediterranean temperatures. This mild climate and rich soil make the area one of
the best wine regions in Europe. Driving through the Black Forest is the best way
to get to know it. Along the way, you can visit and taste the high-quality wines
of Kraichgau, Ortenau, Breisgau, Kaiserstuhl, Markgräflerland and Tuniberg.
Along the route, there are tastings of Spätburgunder and Müller-Thurgau and other
precious Riesling wines.
A good wine should always accompany a good dish and Baiersbronn is the
epicentre of the German haute cuisine due to the city´s award-winning restaurants.
Undoubtedly it is essential to try the locally produced ham and Black Forest gateau
that shares the name of
this German paradise. Of course, when the
wine becomes weariful,
there is always one of the 5,000 varieties
of beer that exists in
Germany!
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Italy
Bérgamo is a beautiful city located in the centre of the Lombardy region, 60
kilometres northeast of Milan. A small city with an enormous amount of charm.
The city is divided into two well-defined areas, “Citta Alta” (Upper Bérgamo) and
“Citta Bassa” (Lower Bérgamo).
The main attraction is Citta Alta. A breathtaking enchanting area full of stunning
Italian architecture and history. Situated on a steep hill and surrounded completely
by an ancient Venetian wall with dozens of interesting shops and traditional Italian
cafes.
Meander through the narrow cobbled streets and eventually come upon the Piazza
Vecchia, all roads lead here. A charming and open space with medieval palaces
and the stunning “Fontana dei Contarini” at its centre, epitomising the influence
of Venetian architecture. Sit and enjoy a drink and watch life go by in this busy
square.
Citta Bassa, on the other hand, has a more
modern vibe, rich in business and wide
boulevards for strolling along. The two areas
are connected by a funicular (a tram), one of the
oldest in Italy which will take you to one part or
the other in less than five minutes.
Bérgamo is full of restaurants and trattorias where
you can eat regional specialities at reasonable
prices. A speciality is the famous “Casoncelli
alla Bergamasca,” delicious ravioli stuffed with
meat, salami, pears and raisins and the Polenta
in Bergamasca, a salty cake made mainly with
corn flour. For desert “Polenta e Osei” the most
famous sweet in the region. It is a cake made
with chocolate cream, butter or nuts and rum,
covered by a layer of yellow marzipan. Simple
but delicious. Buonissíma
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TOUR
Spain
BODEGAS TORRES
THE AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE
IN BRANDING
Bodegas Familia Torres, Finca “el Maset” s/n,
08796 Pacs del Penedès, Barcelona, Spain •
Tel +34938177487 • torres.es
Started in 1870, Bodegas Familia Torres is
a family company that has come to be
seen as a reference for quality and
sustainability in the wine world today.
With 5 generations of the family dedicated
to wines, you can be assured that this is a
brand you can trust. With a commitment to
reduce CO2 emissions per bottle by 30%
by 2020 as compared to 2008, they are
taking an eco-friendly approach too. They
believe in transparency and respect
between company and employees, take a
fair approach in trading and are closely
connected with their international
customers from over 150 countries. The
efforts put in by them go ahead to prove
that their brand is not just limited to
excellent wine but is much more than that.
A tour to their wineries is sure to be
once-in-a-lifetime experience, allowing you
to choose from a wide range of activities of
the one that best suits your needs; from a
traditional winery tour with a pairing of
wines and Jamón Ibericos to a morning of
harvesting grapes in their most
representative estate, the Mas la Plana
estate, or the Torres Starry Night event
where you will learn to observe the night
sky in a different and unique way while
enjoying a delicious wine dinner with live
music under the stars.
TOUR
Spain
LOVE RIOJA
CULINARY EXPERIENCE
OF THE YEAR
Logroño — La Rioja — Spain • Tel +34
696 007 330 • loverioja.com
Love Rioja shows you the hidden
part of the region that only a few
are lucky enough to discover.
Rioja is known for its wine and food;
the tour operators are seasoned
travelers and will help you discover
the history and take you around the
best eateries to eat like a king or
taste some of the finest wines in the
world. You can visit the most world
class wineries or even the tiniest of
them and get to know the origins
of your favorite drink. You can fly
over vineyards and visit some of the
most exclusive wineries and taste
the best wines available out there
in the Gran Reserva Tour. Some of
the best restaurants of the region
are covered in this as well. You can
also get a chance to interact with
winemakers and learn about their
lives and secrets to creating their
wines. Tours can also be customized
according to your requirements so
you can get the most out of them.
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TOUR
Spain
TOUR
France
HIDDEN IN SPAIN
TOUR COMPANY
OF THE YEAR
CEDRIC’S FLAVORS OF PARIS PARIS
TAILOR TOUR GUIDE MADE OF TOUR THE YEAR
COMPANY OF THE YEAR
Luis Fernandez de Vega Chavarri
Avenida de la costa 122, 1D 33204
— Gijon, Asturias (Spain) • Tel +34
609240812 •hiddeninspain.com
When you travel with Hidden
in Spain, you get a boutique
experience with specially curated
tours that are based on the personal
experience of the founders.
You can explore the Andalucia
County and see the beautiful cities
of Granada and Cadiz or perhaps
visit the coastal villages of Asturias
in a seven day journey. If you’re a
foodie, you might as well explore
some of the finest Michelin starred
restaurants in the country across
days and enjoy great Spanish
gastronomic delights along the
way. Whether you’re looking for
an adventurous tour or a simple
laid back holiday, they can
arrange it all. A completely tailormade
experience awaits you with
tours that fit into your budget and
give you exactly what you want
from your holiday! They offer
concierge services too for those
who do not wish to miss out on
anything in their trip.
Discover the hidden Spain
with us through a customized tour.
Paris, France • Tel +33 06 40 40 00 66 •
cedricsparis@gmail.com flavorsofparis.com •
cedricsparis.com
Flavors of Paris’ carefully vetted
A walking personalized and tasting tour inside tours will the
guide original you convertible to some of “2 the chevaux” finest little is
Parisian what you food get when shops, traveling cafés, with and
markets Cedric’s Paris. where you can meet the
locals
Traverse
and
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sample some
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and
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of the city that are unknown
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to Every drive aspect around of the the city tour and is enjoy kept
time flexible with to family. ensure If that you’re more receive of
a the walker, best experience a private possible. walking tour
around the lively markets and the
hidden gardens of the city is all
you need to discover Paris like a
native Parisian! A bachelorette
party special tour is available as
well. With an option to customize
the tours according to your needs,
it is possible to make the most out of
your trips to Paris.
“Tailor made
sightseeing tours in
Paris with a local in
a vintage car!”
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TOUR
Germany
GASTRO-RALLYE –
THE CONTEMPORARY
GOURMET TOUR
TOUR COMPANY OF THE YEAR
Bornholmerstrasse 4, Berlin • Tel +49 30 43 720 701 •
berlinagenten.com
Berlinagenten is well known as one of the most creative lifestyle
of tour agencies in Berlin and boasts some recent prestigeful
awards for guide of the year and their gourmet tours. Since the
start, Berlinagenten made headlines worldwide shocking the
American Pie Starlet Tara Reid with a visit to notorious KitKat
club, showing Madonna´s daughter Lourdes the underground
scene, introducing actor Shidô Nakamura (Letters from Iwo
Jima) to the historical Berlin and taking singer Adele on the river
Spree. The owner Henrik Tidefjärd was listed in Forbes as one
of three people you should know in three global cities in 2012
and due to the company´s capability to create exciting tour
concepts they have gained lots of press coverage worldwide.
It all started back in 2004. Somebody had to be “Mother
Teresa” for individual travelers who were seeking the hip,
trendy and happening neighbourhoods in a city which
doesn´t have a traditional city centre full of life. Moreover,
the food scene was quite backwards in 2003, in comparison
to other European cities. With this in mind Henrik developed
his first tour, a gourmet tour. The ‘Gastro Rallye’ is an overall
experience. While you´re eating and enjoying yourself in 3 or
4 different restaurants, you get an introduction to the lifestyle of
Berlin by your private guide. This was the beginning of Henrik´s
company – a story of success. It was never his intention to save
the world, but to help demanding travelers to get plugged into
the emerging food scene and to discover a tricky city.
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TOUR
Germany
GASTRO-RALLYE –
THE CONTEMPORARY
GOURMET TOUR
TOUR COMPANY OF THE YEAR
Bornholmerstrasse 4, Berlin • Tel +49 30 43 720 701 •
berlinagenten.com
Since the launch of the Gastro-Rallye Berlin has seen a huge
facelift and a boom in the culinary scene. Fifteen years ago
the city was rough and grubby and it was hard to find chic
locations. Now it’s more cosmopolitan and foodies get their
bearings when signing up for a contemporary food tour. Just
like Berlin becomes an “adult,“ step by step Berlinagenten
adjusts the choice of restaurants on the Gastro-Rallye to keep
up with the latest hotspots. The aim is to give all guests an
insight of what the current food scene is about. The local
ingredients used by cooking reflect Berlin´s natural sources,
the chef´s way of cooking and different techniques used will
tell you about standards and even the interior design in an
eatery showcases new trends. If you expect pig knuckles or
other wobbly fat Germany dishes you are in the wrong place
because Berlinagenten´s gastro-rallye goes under the motto
„we are not sauerkraut.“ On a tour they explain that Berlin
is like NY for US or London for Great Britain. In other words,
Berlin is an international city and locals eat more Asian,
Italian or Turkish food due to the city´s historical background
and influences from abroad. So when in Rome... leave the
“sauerkraut” out and you will learn about the local habits.
Today the luxury lifestyle tour agency offers more than 8
different food tours including the brand new Gastro-Rallye
Veggie tour. Berlinagenten has guided over 1.500 journalists
since 2004 through the gastronomic scene and their standard
guests are global companies, managers, trendsetters, celebs
and individual travellers from all over the world. They love to
entertain people so be prepared for making new friends when
you meet your local guide.
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TOUR
Belgium
BREWERY BOURGOGNE
DES FLANDRES
UNIQUE EXPERIENCE OF THE YEAR
Kartuizerinnenstraat 6, 8000 Brugge Belgium • bourgognedesflandres.be/en
If you’re looking for the typical Belgian beer, there’s
no other place that does it better than Bourgogne
des Flandres.
The blending of old and young beer is done perfectly
here to achieve balance. Located in Bruges, this
brewery can be explored now by visitors and you
can actually smell the malt and fresh hops in the loft
here on your visit. This brewery has had a history of
nearly 200 years through different names and this
reason is enough to go and experience the origins
of your favorite drink.
You can make a visit to the brewery and here you’ll
get to find out more about the brewing process and
how to tap beer digitally! This beautiful brewery is
placed next to the Bruges canals and you can get
some wonderful views of the same post your tour.
You don’t even need a guide to visit the brewery; you
can simply walk in and pick up their audio guides
or texts which are available in various languages.
If you’re a group of 20 or more people, you could
also opt for a blending session where you’ll be able
to blend your very own Bourgogne des Flandres!
The brewery also has a bar where you can go and
relish a variety of Belgian beers with snacks while
taking in the serene views of the canals.
If you wish to have professional meetings or even
private events, they enable it with their splendid
service. A flexible room layout allows you to host
any of your events here with some delicious meals
prepared by them inspired by Flemish cuisine.
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TOUR
Italy
WINE TOUR
AMALFI COAST
WINE TOUR COMPANY
OF THE YEAR
Via Panoramica 31, 84010, Conca
dei Marini, Salerno, Italia • Tel +39 333
3432830 • winetouramalficoast.com
Wine Tours Amalfi Coast takes you on
a journey across the Amalfi Coast for
excursions to some of the most famous
and historic places in the area.
Gastronomical delights such as
mozzarella of Lattari Mounts await
you along with some exotic native
wines of Reale which wait to be
discovered as well. Traditional recipes
are also taught and you can actually
try your hand at cooking them in the
kitchen. The lemon tours take you on
a trip to discover the ‘yellow gold’ of
Amalfi Coast on the numerous terrace
gardens overlooking the sea. Cheese
lovers are sure to get excited in the
mozzarella tasting tours, where you
will be taught how to prepare
mozzarella! All the adventure lovers
can retrace the footpaths and mule
tracks running across ridges of
mountains along the Divine Coast.
Guests are made to feel special by
their transfer services, where you can
easily reach your destination without
any hassles. With some exquisite
all-round experiences to offer, you can
never be disappointed when traveling
with them.
HOTEL
Austria
PARK HYATT VIENNA
ELEGANT HOTEL OF THE YEAR
Am Hof 2 Vienna, Austria, 1010 • Tel +43 1
22740 1234 • parkhyattvienna.com
Park Hyatt is located in the very heart
of Vienna and offers unparalleled
elegance and grandeur.
With 143 spacious rooms and suites
with remarkable furnishings and built
with a fusion of contemporary style and
Viennese accents, staying here is a very
comfortable experience for all. Situated
in a 100-year old building, this hotel
truly reflects the history of Vienna; with a
convenient central location, guests can
find the most important and impressive
sites of the city within easy walking
distance. Exquisite dining experiences
await your arrival at The Bank Brasserie
& Bar while hot beverages and dainty
snacks can be enjoyed at Café Am Hof.
Guests can also relax in the state-of-theart
Arany Spa with its indoor pool,
sauna, sanarium and vitality shower,
in addition to indulging in refreshing
massages from the expert therapists.
This pet-friendly hotel is also the place
to head to for conducting corporate
meetings or holding some functions in
their large banquet halls and meeting
rooms that are fully equipped to cater
to your requirements.
Image by: Jassy Onyae
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EDITORS
CHOICE –
7 WONDERS
OF EUROPE
HOTEL
Belgium
CROWNE PLAZA
BRUSSELS –
LE PALACE
THE AWARD FOR
EXCELLENCE IN SERVICE
Rue Gineste 3, Brussels, 1210, Belgium
• Tel +32-2-2036200 • crowneplaza.
com/brusselsbel
Located in the capital of Belgium,
Crowne Plaza Brussels – Le Palace
is a 100 year old building that has
been fully renovated and offers
plush comforts to guests.
The central location makes it
the perfect choice for corporate
travelers and tourists alike. The
multilingual staff will ensure that
you are provided with every
luxury possible. You can work out
in the fitness center and keep up
with your fitness routine during
your stay at the hotel too. If you
are feeling a bit peckish you can
choose to dine in one of two on-site
restaurants or in the privacy of your
own room. You could keep up with
your corporate life thanks to the
latest Wi-Fi technology, allowing
you to stay connected 24x7 on up
to three devices. The hotel is also
pet friendly so you can bring your
pooch along with you!
BRUSSELS - LE PALACE
Image by: Paulo Ferreira
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HOTEL
Georgia
KABADONI
HOTEL
BOUTIQUE HOTEL
OF THE YEAR
1 Tamar Mepe st. Sighnaghi, Georgia
4200 • Tel +995 32 2240400 •kabadoni.ge/
Located in the historical center of
Sighnaghi, Hotel Kabadoni
overlooks scattered vineyards
throughout the Alazani Valley and
the Caucasus.
The 21 rooms in the hotel are
equipped with the most modern
amenities to ensure a comfortable
stay with neutral coloured walls with
colourful rugs and clean designs.
Kabadoni Restaurant is the place to
find some local delicacies, which
are accompanied with true
Georgian hospitality and superior
service. The restaurant also boasts
of a terrace from where you can get
some picturesque views of the valley
and mountains. You can also sip
your favorite drinks at the sunset
lounge or taste some of the finest
wines in the wine bar. If you’re
looking to rejuvenate, you can head
over to the spa where expert
masseuses will offer some treatments
and therapeutic massages. If you
love to swim, there is an indoor pool
with scenic views of the valley. The
hotel also has a gym and sauna.
Dainty environment, calm and harmonious
atmosphere, picturesque views, a wide
range of services, and traditional Georgian
hospitality – Boutique Hotel Kabadoni is an
ideal place for those who appreciate comfort,
coziness and care.
HOTEL
Hungary
CORINTHIA HOTEL
BUDAPEST
HOTEL OF THE YEAR
Erzsébet körút 43-49, Budapest H-1073,
Hungary • Tel +36 1 479 4000 • corinthia.
com/budapest
Corinthia Hotel Budapest is one of
the grandest hotels in Budapest as the
perfect destination for both exploration
and relaxation.
The former Grand Hotel Royal has been
transformed to the highest standards of
contemporary luxury, while retaining
the beautiful historical features such
as marble floors, a grand sweeping
staircase and a stunning six-storey
atrium. The hotel is located in the city
centre, baths, churches, restaurants,
bars and other recreational places are
within walking distance.
Corinthia Hotel Budapest has 438
rooms, including 31 suites and 26
apartments, 4 restaurants from fine
dining to casual meals, a bar, a cabaret
and a 2700 m2 Conference Centre
with 20 meeting rooms providing one
of the most convertible conference
areas in the country.
As the jewel of the luxurious Corinthia
Hotel Budapest, the Royal Spa has
been beautifully restored to its original
splendour and today offers the latest
state-of-the-art spa facilities including
a 15-metre swimming pool, relaxation
areas, saunas, a steam bath, jacuzzis,
a fitness room and ESPA treatments.
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HOTEL
Austria
HOTEL STADT WIEN
FAMILY FRIENDLY HOTEL OF THE YEAR
Schmittenstrasse 41 A-5700 Zell am See •
Tel +43 6542 762 • hotel-stadt-wien.com
This getaway in the alpine town of Zell am See in
Austria is like a place picked right out of fairytales.
The family run hotel is located centrally in the town
and gives you easy access to the main points of
interest. The location of the hotel is ideal for kick-starting
trips and expeditions in your winter holidays.You
can choose from the 57 rooms and suites in the hotel
which are furnished to reflect the alpine environment
of the hotel. The accommodations come with pine
wood walls which help in getting a good night’s
sleep. They also have a special room with solid wood
furniture for guests who suffer from allergies to ensure
a pleasant holiday for them.
The hotel pays special attention to families and has
packages specifically designed to make your vacation
perfect. You can head up to the Schmittenhohe
mountain for hiking while kids can visit the Schmidolin’s
trail. The hotel has a playroom, petting zoo and
a playground which make it a fun stay for both kids
and parents. A special Schmidolin Kids’ Programme
is also hosted by the hotel where kids will be taken on
discovery tours of the various forests and other places
around.
For relaxation you can head over to the Vitality Oasis
of the hotel where you can visit the steam bath, Finnish
sauna, salt-grotto and even a large heated outdoor
swimming pool with jacuzzi. Integrated Jacuzzi the
spa has rooms when you can unwind by getting relaxing
massages and treatments from experienced
masseuses. During your stay, you can indulge in the
culinary delights prepared in the hotel kitchen, be it a
hot and cold buffet breakfast or a five course dinner.
They also have exclusive meals for vegetarians and
other guests with special diets.
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85 35

HOTEL
Greece
Enjoy A Unique Experience Half Way to Heaven
HOTEL CATTLEYA
UNIQUE GUEST HOUSE OF THE YEAR
Kokkari, Samos Island, Greece, 83100 • Tel +30 227 309 2809 •
hotelcattleya.com
Hotel Cattleya is classical and enticingly quaint.
The Hotel’s unique furnishings are far from traditional and one
can expect colonial chic, ostrich feathered throws and Italian
1950’s love seat.
From the moment you join them, you’ll feel the welcoming
warmth in a relaxed surrounding splashed with fantastic
service and attention to detail. There is nothing more important
to them than creating your very own piece of heaven.
Whether you want to have an intimate romantic holiday, a
relaxing time with friends, or get married in full. They’ll pull-out
all the stops to make this happen.
Hotel Cattleya has a very capable team and passionate owner
on hand for your every whim.Go ahead book the whole hotel
and raise your glass to your very own special occasion.
• Rates include full continental breakfast.
• Refreshments on arrival.
• Each room contains complimentary water, tea and coffee.
• Facilities include a common area terrace, mini library and
free WIFI.
• Complimentary refreshments daily on the patio between
16.00 – 18.00 pm.
• Each room contains hairdryers, toiletries and air
conditioning.
• Check-In at 2pm ( given the flight schedules of the island,
we have flexible check in and out times, please inquire
upon booking ).
• This is a strictly adults-only retreat: children and under-16s
are not catered for
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HOTEL
Germany
Experience Home in all Places
MK | HOTEL REMSCHEID
UNIQUE HOTEL OF THE YEAR
Bismarckstrasse 39 42853 Remscheid •
Tel +49 8723 97871-2200 • mkhotels.de
MK | Hotel Remscheid is located in the small but fascinating
town of Remscheid in West Germany, conveniently located
opposite the rail station with frequent connections to Dusseldorf
and Cologne. Remscheid is renowned for quality
manufacturing, especially in the metal and tool industry. Many
large companies such as ThyssenKrupp and Vaillant are based
here, making this property perfect for business travelers. It is
also ideally positioned for visiting local attractions such as the
Deutsches Röntgen-Museum, which houses a diverse collection
of artefacts relating to the discovery of the x-ray, as well as
107m (351ft) high Müngsten Bridge, the highest railway
bridge in Germany. The 100-years-old Wuppertal ski run and
the first drinking water dam in Germany are also an interesting
tourist hotspots that attest to the resourcefulness and innovation
of the local residents. This contemporary, upmarket
accommodation uniquely boasts its own on-site brewery,
where guests can enjoy the traditional, unfiltered beers for
which Germany is famous the world over, alongside a
sophisticated menu of both regional and international dishes.
88 exquisitely renovated guest rooms are designed in a
vibrant palette of contemporary tones. There is also
complimentary Wi-Fi, high tech flat screen TVs and spacious
work desks in every room, while one of many standout features
are the provision of fitness equipment such as yoga mats,
exercise bikes, punch-bags and weights that enable busy
guests to unwind on their own schedule. The proprietors also
willingly provide bicycle rentals to explore all this exciting
region has to offer – alternatively, hiking is a popular pastime,
with plentiful panoramic routes nearby perfect for exploring
the gorgeous European landscapes. The ethos of the MK
brand is people – the hosts are passionate about their home
region and offer honest, straightforward service, ensuring any
stay here in Remscheid is stress-free.
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HOTEL
Slovenia STRMOL CASTLE
Gorenjskem Slovenia
STRMOL CASTLE
UNIQUE CASTLE OF THE YEAR
Dvorje 3, Cerklje na Gorenjskem • Tel +386 (0) 4
202 59 00 • grad-strmol.com
Situated on the beautiful pre-alpine slopes,
this fortress is named after the Strmol Knights
who settled here in the 13th century.
This hotel is indeed one of the oldest and
best preserved castles in Slovenia and you
can get a unique experience by residing
here. Strmol Castle creates an image of
life from the past centuries and yet offers
the complete comfort of the present time. It
impresses its guests with the outstanding
interior and halls with authentic furniture
that tells us stories about its rich history. You
can choose to stay in one of the finest suites
available here designed to match the age of
the castle. Luxurious and comfortable with
spacious bathrooms, they satisfy even the most
demanding guests.
Your stay will be escorted by outstanding
culinary experiences. Chefs trained at the
protocol Brdo Estate create exciting flavours
through which guests can experience the
mysterious castle stories.
You could also sit on the spacious terrace
and take in the views around the castle. The
hotel ensures that you get a feel of complete
seclusion by creating carefully arranged parks
and a romantic lake to give you a tranquil
view. Nearby there is also Café Strmol,
where you can lay backand sip a warm cup
of coffee! The Strmol estate also plays hosts
to various events ranging from weddings to
business meetings.
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47 41

NORTHERN
EUROPE
Image by: Naian Wang
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43

Iceland
Things to Do and Places to Visit
Reykjavik
The capital of the country is also home to two
thirds of its population and this beautiful city
is located right on the coastline of the country.
From the quirky design of the Hallgrimkirkja
Church to the oldest Icelandic settlement – The
Settlement Exhibition, this city has a lot to offer.
This is the place where you can enjoy the city
life and witness the Nordic culture unlike any
other place. It is also the starting point for all
the tours and trips around the country.
The Golden Circle
As the name suggests, this ‘circle’ is a driving
route which is approximately 300 km long
starting from Reykjavik and back in a loop.
You
can find some of the most popular tourist
attractions on the way like Þingvellir National
Park. Other popular attractions are the Gullfoss
waterfall and the famous geysers of Iceland –
Geysir and Strokkur – where the latter erupts
every 5 to 10 minutes and goes up to a height
of 40 m! Moreover, you can find many hot
springs around this geothermally active region.
Known for its dramatic
landscapes and amazing
natural beauty, Iceland
maybe the most sparsely
populated country in Europe
but it has an abundance
of wonders – both
natural and man-made.
Whether you are a fan of waterfalls or beaches, this country
has it all. If you thought that was all, you are mistaken. Iceland
is also home to one of the most rarely found bird species –
puffins. With all its unique sites and peaceful environment, this
country has quickly grabbed the attention of avid travellers.
The reason for this is simple – it has something to offer to
every tourist. If you love adventures, there are numerous active
volcanoes across the country including the Eyjafjallajökull and
hundreds of trekking trails with vast hinterlands waiting to be
explored. Moreover, you can find geysers, black sand beaches
and can even see the continental plates pulling away from each
other. What makes this country even more unique is that it has
had no standing army since 1869. With such a wide range of
natural marvels, Iceland definitely has to be on your bucket list.
Þingvellir National Park
This UNESCO Wo
rld Heritage Site was
established in 1930 and is the very place
where the national parliament of Iceland was
founded in 930 AD. Owing to its location
in a rift valley,
this place has some unusual
tectonic and volcanic environments. You
could
make a visit to the Þingvallavatn Lake, which is
the largest natural lake of the country,
on the
southern edge of the park. Moreover, you can
see the
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Vatnajökull National
Park
If you want to see the famous glaciers of Iceland,
VatV
najökull National Park is the place to be.
Spread out across an area of 12000 km2, this
park encompasses the entire Vat
najökull glacier,
whose ice is so thick that it conceals mountains
and even active volcanoes! You
could trek to
the summit of the Hvannadalshnjúkur or can
see the mighty Dettifoss waterfall too. This
national park is also home to the picture-perfect
Svartifoss waterfall and Skaftafellsjökull glacier.
Mývatn
This volcanic lake is located in the northern
region of the country. The crystal clear waters
with relatively low depth are the highlighting
factors of this spot. You
could explore the
neighboring Reykjahlíð village that also serves
as a base for exploration around the region.
Moreover, you could take a dip in the mineralrich
waters of the Mývatn Nature Baths which
have a naturally heated man-made lagoon.
Alternatively, y you can see some hot-springs,
fumaroles and boiling mud pots at Hverir, which
is located at a short distance from here.
Jökulsárlón
This glacial lake just south of Vat
najökull
National Park is the deepest lake in the country
and is fed by the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. It
is filled with fish and hence it’s common to find
seals gathering here in large numbers along
with birds like Skua and Arctic Te
rns to feed on
them. You
could take a boat tour of this scenic
paradise with local tour company – Jökulsárlón
ehf. The unmissable Breiðamerkurjökull can
also be seen from the lake rising high up in the
air.
Hiking
Iceland truly is an amazing destination for all
those who love to hike. Va
st open lands with
rugged terrain make for some great hikes and
spectacular natural scenery along with it only
makes the whole deal better for thrillseekers.
One of the most popular trails is the Laugavegur
trail that is not just scenic but also has numerous
hot springs, glaciers and mountains around to
leave you in awe of the beauty of nature.
Northern Lights
Iceland is famous for many things but what it
is most visited for are the stunning northern
lights which are also known as Aurora Borealis.
These beautiful luminous green streaks in the
skies can be spotted at many locations across
the country,
including the capital; however, they
are most commonly found away from populated
areas. This phenomenon draws thousands of
tourists every year to Iceland and it can even
be spotted from the space.
Caving
Ever fancied entering a magma chamber?
Iceland is the perfect place for you. Thanks to
its geological activity,
this country has numerous
underground caves with varied rock formations
that will leave you astounded. The most famous
one among all is the Þríhnúkagígur crater which
is a dormant volcano that has a huge cavity and
a magma chamber that is located right at the
heart of the volcano! This thrilling experience
is unlike any other and probably Iceland is the
only place in the world to experience it!
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47

Ice Climbing
Iceland Air
With 4500 square miles of glaciers, Iceland is
a great place for those looking to hike on ice or
have some adrenaline rushing through the veins
by climbing on it. The climate makes it possible
to climb glaciers all round the year and this
should be reason enough for the adventurer in
you to head out to places like Snæfellsjökull
and Sólheimajökull glaciers with your gear.
Whale Watching
The location of this island makes it possible to
spot whales in the cold waters of the coast during
the summer months. With over 20 species of
whales to be spotted, nature lovers have a great
chance to be up close and personal with these
mammoth creatures in their natural habitat. Yo
u
can easily take a whale watching tour from
Reykjavik and head out into the deep blue with
other enthusiasts. The best time to spot whales
is between April and September.
Birdwatching
Iceland is truly a paradise for bird watchers.
Not only is it home to the largest population
of Atlantic Puffins on earth but there are many
other rare bird species that you can find here
including the Razorbill and Fulmar. The birds
can be spotted in abundance across the country
in special bird watching day trips. Moreover,
you could head over to the We
stman Islands
where it is estimated that more than 4 million
puffins nest.
Travelling to Iceland this year to see the puffins?
Or perhaps you prefer to explore the vast
hinterlands of the country, or even go for a
little adventure to the volcanoes and glaciers?
Whatever maybe your aim for visiting this
beautiful country, it is simply not possible without
the assistance of the omnipresent Icelandair. This
airline makes it easier for you to reach the island
from Europe and North America by providing
direct flights to major destinations across the
continents.
This airline is the main airline of the country
and operates from the Keflavik International
Airport in the capital Reykjavik. It is also the
first international airline of the country and is
currently among the two international carriers
hailing from Iceland. With services to over 32
cities across 16 countries, this airline serves as
the main mode of transportation for reaching
Iceland.
Launched way back in 1937 as Flugfélag
Akureyrar, this airline has come a long way
to become one of the most well-known aircraft
carriers in the world today. To really see the
commitment of this airline towards the country’s
tourism, you can go back in history books to
2011 when the Eyjafjallajökull eruptions had
wreaked havoc in the tourism sector of Iceland.
Icelandair took the initiative and launched
the “Inspired by Iceland” campaign with the
government of Iceland to regain the confidence
of tourists.
Under the visionary leadership of the CEO
Björgólfur Jóhannsson, the company has won
many accolades including “The Knowledge
Company of the Year” and “Marketing Firm of
the Year in Iceland” by the Icelandic business
community and Marketing Association of Iceland
respectively.
The airlines offer 4 classes – Economy Light,
Economy Standard, Economy Comfort and Saga
Class. You could choose to travel by the Economy
Light class for an affordable travel experience
or could choose the Economy Standard and
Comfort classes for a little more comfort and
baggage allowance. The Saga Class provides
you with the most luxurious services like priority
check-ins and lounge access.
Icelandair is no ordinary airline company and it
boasts of some spectacular features that make it
a unique airline. Across years, the company has
grown leaps and bounds; it now offers attractive
packages to visit Iceland and explore its beauty
and is working continuously towards creating
better experiences for their customers.
From vacation packages to guided tours, onboard
internet connectivity to flight bookings
from Facebook; Icelandair has ensured that it
provides the finest services to their clients.
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49

Iceland Vacation Packages
Along with flights, the airline also functions as a travel company and offers a plethora of vacation
packages throughout Iceland. A few noteworthy ones are Northern Lights and Midnight Sun.
These all-inclusive packages include your flight tickets, accommodations as well as travels inside
the country so that you can relax and enjoy the beauty of Iceland without worrying about travel
arrangements.
Northern Lights
Stopover
A unique feature pertaining to Icelandair for tourists travelling from Europe, United States of America
and Canada; Icelandair Stopover program enables you to stop by in Iceland for up to 7 days at
no additional airfare while travelling across the Atlantic. This allows you to explore the country and
get to know its culture while on the go!
Whether you wish to stay for as short as one day or even as long as a week, they have suggestions
of things to do for each day so that you needn’t worry about planning your stopover. You can simply
follow their well-researched itineraries and experience Iceland like never before.
With Icelandair, you can get a
chance to see the natural marvel
of northern lights along with other
destinations like Blue Lagoon and
The Golden Circle. If you prefer a
more adventurous vacation, you can
go for a glacier hike and see the
northern lights.
Midnight Sun
This package is for the summer months when
Iceland has the midnight sun that shines all day
long. Icelandair gives you a chance to utilize the
extra daylight hours to explore a bit more of the
country and make the most of your trip. Whether
you wish to jog on a black sand beach or play a
game of midnight golf, they have packages for all.
Tours
Apart from the complete packages, you can
book tours and add-ons too. The tours include
trips around the Golden Circle, trip to see the
northern lights, visit to Blue Lagoon and Ice
Glacier Cave tour among others. You could also
indulge in some activities like snowmobiling and
horseback riding across lava fields. To learn
more about the gastronomic culture of Iceland,
you can even join an Icelandic cooking class!
Moreover, the airline also gives you the option
to book airport and hotel transfers.
If none of their packages seem to fit your
requirements, you can create your very own
Iceland trip and have that dream vacation that
you were always wishing for.
You can book hotels all around the world with
just a few clicks and can also rent a comfortable
car for your travels, all from their website.
Golden Circle City Break
This trip takes you on the Golden Circle route
which is a 300 km route from Reykjavik and
back. In this trip, you’ll get to see some splendid
sights like Gulfoss Falls, Thingvellir National
Park and Geysir! This one-day road-trip will
give you some of the most stunning views of the
natural environment surrounding the capital.
Flight Theater
Icelandair created the world’s first immersive
in-flight theater experience on a flight from
London to New York which was stopping
over at Iceland last year. The entire staff and
professional actors performed live in front of
the passengers and this was only the first of
the many performances lined up for this year.
You can plan your stopover accordingly and
get to see the in-flight performances too!
Stopover Buddy
If you’re looking for an authentic Icelandic
experience, the Stopover Buddy program
is perfect for you. Whenever you’re taking
a Stopover at Iceland, you will have the
option to request a Stopover Buddy, who is
an Icelandair employee who acts as your
personal host for up to one day. You can
truly discover Iceland with them and whether
you’re looking for a celebration or are simply
looking to get deeper insight into the country,
these locals ensure that you can get the best
experience possible during your stay.
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Saga Club Frequent Flyer Program
The frequent flyer program allows you to earn
Saga Points every time you travel by Icelandair or
make a purchase on-board the flights. You could
also earn these points when you spend money
at their partners across the world like hotels and
car rentals. On accumulation, you can use these
points to book your flights or even redeem them at
numerous partners worldwide for something you
wish to do/buy. Moreover, you can donate your
Saga Points for charity too.
The membership itself comes with loads of
privileges as you gain more points with amazing
features like free access to lounges and discounted
limousine services to the airport.
Handcrafted Livery on Aircrafts
Hekla Aurora
The Hekla Aurora is a Boeing 757 aircraft that
is wrapped with images of the northern lights
and even the inside of the flight is illuminated
with LED mood lighting to display the Aurora
inside the main cabin. Moreover, the flight is
equipped with a Wi-Fi connection so that you
can show off your in-flight photos with the
northern lights online!
Vatnajokull
As a part of the airline’s 80th anniversary,
the exterior of one aircraft was hand-painted
to showcase the enormous Vatnajokull glacier
which is one of the largest glaciers in the world
and covers more than 8 percent of Iceland.
Along with the exterior, the interiors of the
flight were designed to replicate the marvellous
glacier with ice blue ambient lighting and
serving carts transformed into rolling glacier
caves. You can also spot the glacier motifs on
the complimentary snacks and drinks.
Always On-Time
Time and again, Icelandair has proved that
they always take off and land on time. Their
punctuality has brought them the praise from
thousands of passengers; it was even declared
the most punctual airline in Europe in 2012!
Gate-To-Gate Connectivity
In 2016, Icelandair became the first airline in
the European and North Atlantic markets to offer
gate-to-gate connectivity in all its flights flying
across Europe and North America. Right from the
moment you enter the gate till you leave it at your
destination, you can be connected to high-speed
Wi-Fi. The flights also feature on-demand in-flight
entertainment services for movies, games and
music to keep passengers entertained throughout
the duration of the flight.
Book Flight From Facebook Messenger
If you ever thought that booking a flight is a tough
job, Icelandair will make you rethink it all over
again. Passengers travelling across the Atlantic
can book flights right from Facebook Messenger
with ease. All you need to do is chat with the
Stopover Bot and it’ll do the booking for you in
the process! Not only does it book your flight
tickets but also answers all the frequently asked
questions.
Baggage-Based Fares
For those who wish to travel light, Icelandair has a new tier – Economy Light. This allows
passengers to carry upto 10 kgs of baggage with them and experience the same level of luxury
at lower fares. This feature benefits those who are going for a short business trip or a weekend
getaway.
Inspired By Iceland
With the support of the government of Iceland, Icelandair launched a mega-campaign in which
thousands of residents of the country and people from all around the world took part to showcase
what part of Iceland inspired them. Many live webcams were set up across the country which
broadcasted the visuals of the country around the world to invite people to visit this amazing land
post the Eyjafjallajokull eruptions.
With such passenger-friendly features, Icelandair has truly made a name for itself across Europe
and North America. Increasing connectivity and affordable fares make this airline the best way
to reach Iceland from anywhere around the world to explore its beauty. Whether you’re visiting
Iceland for a business trip or are travelling to see the beautiful natural attractions of this country,
Icelandair is the first impression of the country for you and it sets this bar high enough for you to
enjoy a smooth transition to this wonderful nation.
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53

TOUR HOTEL
Coatia Iceland
VILLA YOUR MAGDALENA
DAY TOURS
HOTEL CULTURAL & SPA TOUR OF COMPANY THE YEAR
OF THE YEAR
Mirna Fiskislóð ul. 24, 1, 49217, 101 Reykjavik Krapinske • Tel Toplice, +354
Hrvatska 770 4500 • Tel yourdaytours.is
+385 49 233 333 •
villa-magdalena.net
Your Day Tours is a family owned
Hotel company Villa established Magdalena in April is 2015 an
exclusive with a simple small goal in four-star mind – to move hotel
located people, in not Krapinske only between Toplice places just 45 –
kilometres but also with from the Zagreb. magnificent history
It and is a nature unique of Iceland. place for relaxation,
The wellness, ‘Your Golden first-class Circle’ tour gourmet will
tell experience you all there and business is to know meetings. about
Iceland. All accommodation You’ll get to see is the equipped Geysir
geothermal to highest area, standards Gullfoss waterfall befitting
and the hotel’s Þingvellir leisure National and business Park –
where guests, you with can a see hidden the American delight –
and each Eurasian room offers tectonic a Jacuzzi plates heated pulling
by apart. the thermal You will springs also of get Krapinske to see
Toplice. the beautiful Further Faxi relaxation waterfall can as an be
found added in punch the panoramic of natural beauty! wellness &
spa
On the
oasis
south
– complete
coast of
with
Iceland
an indoor
you’ll
pool,
be able
massage
to see
areas,
two waterfalls,
a steam
room
Seljalandsfoss
and a gym
and
–
Skógafoss
a beautifully
as
maintained
well as the
environment
mighty Sólheimajökull
that invites
you
glacier.
to
Fancy
release
beaches?
your stress
Their tours
and
recover
include
your
the wonderful
energy.
Reynisfjara
with When black not luxuriating sand beaches in the where spa, guests you
might can indulge be lucky in the enough finest gastronomical
to spot some
delights. The fine dining restaurant
puffins! You will also get to see the
within Hotel Villa Magdalena is a
amazing
place for premium
Eyjafjallajokull
gastro experiences,
Volcano,
whose with a menu eruption inspired had by put the best hundreds of the
of traditional flights on Zagorje hold a cuisine few years combined back.
with elements of modern Italian and
French cuisines.
TOUR
Iceland
TRAVEL REKJAVIK
FAMILY FRIENDLY TOUR
COMPANY OF THE YEAR
Langholtsvegur 109, 104 Reykjavík,
Iceland • Tel +354 588 8660 •travelreykjavik.com
Run by Snæland Travel which has
more than 70 years of experience
in the tourism sector, Travel
Reykjavik offers a large variety of
tours in Iceland.
You can book trips ranging from
short day trips to long excursions
spanning across a few days. With
them, you’ll be able to take a tour
to the marvelous Blue Lagoon or
head over to the north to witness
the natural phenomenon of
Northern Lights. They also offer the
option of having a completely
private tour with your own driver
guide and vehicle so that you can
enjoy your trip exclusively with your
own family. The ‘Journey Around
Iceland’ tour takes you on the ring
road and in this weeklong tour,
you’ll be able to visit every major
site that Iceland has to offer. With
tours all across the country, you can
explore every region of the country
when traveling with Travel
Reykjavik. They also offer airport
transfers to and from the Reykjavik
airport.
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61 55

HOTEL
Iceland
RADISSON BLU 1919 HOTEL
HOTEL OF THE YEAR
Posthusstraeti 2, Reykjavik, 101, Iceland • Tel +354 599 1000 •
radissonblu.com
Located in the capital of the country, Reykjavik, Radisson Blu
1919 Hotel offers a comfortable stay in the land of endless
geysers, waterfalls…and puffins! With 88 rooms and suites
designed to perfection and equipped with plush furnishings,
you can expect your stay here to be a comfortable one.
Rooms here come in all shapes and sizes so that you can
choose the one that suits your palate. The rooms come fitted
with hardwood flooring to give an elegant feel and even
help avoid cold feet in the chilling weather of Iceland.
You can dine amongst the beautiful interiors of the 1919
Restaurant and indulge in authentic local cuisines. A super
buffet breakfast awaits you in the morning, prepared fresh
with local ingredients! Fancy some drinks? The 1919 Lounge
and Bar is the perfect place for you to sink into your chair
and see the city life passing by while sipping some fine
wines or cocktails.
The hotel makes sure that your stay in Reykjavik is relaxing
and convenient with the endless list of services that they
offer. You can hit the fully-equipped gym here for keeping up
with your fitness routine or head over to the concierge desk
for inquiring about Iceland’s many attractions. In a hurry to
kick-start your day? The Grab and Run Breakfast offered by
the hotel gives you tea and coffees in disposable cups along
with fresh fruits and energy bars!
Every room also comes with a One Touch Service button
on the telephone that will alert the staff and take care of all
your needs! The hotel also features 3 meeting rooms which
can be used to host corporate meetings or personal events.
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TOUR
Iceland
AURUM BY
GUOBJORG JEWELLERY
UNIQUE EXPERIENCE OF THE YEAR
Bankastraeti 4 101, Reykjavik Iceland • Tel +354 551 2770 • aurum.is
Our Designer
Guðbjörg Kristín Ingvarsdóttir was born in 1969 in Ísafjörður, West Iceland.
Completing her journeyman’s examination at Copenhagen polytechnic
in 1993, she received her Master diploma in gold-smithing at Reykjavik
Technical College in 1994. Guðbjörg further studied jewellery design at
Copenhagen Institute for Precious Metals before returning to Iceland in
1999, founding her own jewellery design company Aurum along with
her husband Karl Jóhann Jóhannsson MBA. Aurum‘s flagship store is
located in the lively city centre of Reykjavík.
Inspiration
Guðbjörg has made a name for herself with her innovative jewellery
designs which are a combination of delicate individual elements inspired
by her surroundings. Often seeking inspiration from the Icelandic nature,
the majestic and raw landscape in the West Fjords continues to be reflected
in Aurum‘s jewellery designs, both in her in-store collections and custom
made jewellery art pieces that have been exhibited around the world.
Recognition
Guðbjörg was awarded first prize in the jewellery competition Spirit of the
North in St. Petersburg in 2000. In 2001 she received the DV cultural
award in Reykjavík for art design and received the Visual Arts Award for
design in 2008. Along with receiving awards, Guðbjörg has participated
in many exhibitions both in Iceland and internationally, recognising Guðbjörg‘s
artistry and craftmanship. Recent exhibitions include LOOT: MAD
about Jewellery at Museum of Art and Design in New York and Artistar
Jewels in Milan where Guðbjörg received recognition for a jewellery art
piece from Aurum‘s Tuttu collection.Aurum by Guðbjörg has won world
wide acclaim from the likes of Condé Nast Traveler, Timeout, Town &
Country, GQ, Vogue and many others. ELLE magazine ranks our flagship
store in Iceland as one of the “Best boutiques in the World”. Aurum
received the Njarðar —
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WESTERN
EUROPE
Image by: Invisiblepower
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Alpine Lake Towns
One of the most beautiful and
impressive mountain ranges in
the World, The Alps, spanning
Italy, Germany, Switzerland,
France and Austria.
Mountains, valleys, fields and
forests, a fantastic and natural
landscape.
The Alps has become one
of the most popular tourist
destinations in Europe with its
diverse offering, with transport
links between the Alps and
the rest of Europe, making the
region most accessible.
Although the Alps is popular all year round, the
region is most renowned for its winter sports
such as skiing and snowboarding, in particular,
attracting beginners and avid winter sports
enthusiasts alike. The Alps is as tremendously
popular during the summer months for
alternative activities including hiking, climbing,
and paragliding. Others may prefer to relax and
appreciate the wonderful location and scenery.
The options are limitless.
There are many picturesque towns and villages
located amongst the Alps, such as Bern, Annecy,
Riva Del Garda, Feld Am and Konstanz. With
views that are breathtaking with impressive
mountain ranges and alpine lakes. These towns
have good facilities to ensure all travellers are
well catered for.
Each town has its own
history, such as the resort
town of Interlaken in
Switzerland, a typical
Alpine town, which
was very popular in
the 19 th century with
artists, although these
days are more popular
with travellers enjoying
skydiving or paragliding.
The history remains for all
to see.
As one would expect of
this vast natural space,
there is an impressive
array of wildlife, so while
enjoying the region, do
not be surprised to see an
Ibex, Deer or Lynx.
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Annecy | France
Interlaken | Switzerland
LAKE
Annecy
POPULATION
124,401
HOW TO GET IN
• Road
• Train
• Fly in
A Medieval town built around a
Chateau known also as the
Venice of Savoie
LAKES
Brienz to the East & Thun
to the West
POPULATION
5,673
HOW TO GET IN
• Road
• Train
A small town perfectly nestled
between 2 Alpine Lakes. Popular
for outdoor adventure activities
& shopping.
GET AROUND
• On Foot
• By Bike
GET AROUND
• On Foot
• Taxi
• Bus
• Taxi
ATTRACTIONS & SIGHTS
• BLS Schifffahrt
ATTRACTIONS & SIGHTS
• Unterseen
• Chateau d’Annecy
• Palais d’Isle
THINGS TO DO ON THE LAKE
• Swimming in both lakes
• Fete du Lac
• River Rafting
THINGS TO DO ON THE LAKE
• Swimming
• Canyoning
• Sailing
• Rowing
• Sailing
Find out more – http://
www.interlaken.ch/en/
discover-interlaken.html
Find out more – https://
en.lac-annecy.com/
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Riva Del Garda| Italy
LAKE
Garda
POPULATION
17,190
The largest lake in Italy which was
part of Austria prior to the Unification
of Italy in 1870
HOW TO GET IN
• Road
• Ferry
GET AROUND
• On Foot
• Bus
• Taxi
ATTRACTIONS & SIGHTS
• Museo Civico
• The magnificent city
gates Porta San Marco
• Varone Falls
THINGS TO DO ON THE LAKE
• Sailing
• Windsurfing
• Sabbioni Beach
Find out more – http://
www.visitgarda.com/en/
tourist-offices-lake-garda/
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Konstanz | Germany
Feld Am See | Austria
LAKE
Constance (Bodensee)
POPULATION
85,524
HOW TO GET IN
• Road
• Train
• Ferry
• Fly in
Lying on the border between
Switzerland and Germany Konstanz
is unique in that it’s historic old town
remains perfectly intact. It’s proximity
to Switzerland means it was never
bombed during second world war.
LAKE
Brennsee
POPULATION
1,124
HOW TO GET IN
• Road
GET AROUND
• On Foot: A small village
very walkable
Spectacularly set amidst the Nock
mountain range, Feld Am See is the
perfect getaway to enjoy village life.
GET AROUND
ATTRACTIONS & SIGHTS
• On Foot
• By Bike
• Bus
• Taxi
• Protestant Church of
Feld Am See
• Alpen Wildpark Feld
am See
• Mirnockriese
ATTRACTIONS & SIGHTS
• Munster Cathedral
• Rosegarten Museum
• Bismarck Tower
THINGS TO DO ON THE LAKE
• Fishing
• Sailing
• Surfing
THINGS TO DO ON THE LAKE
• Swim
• A boat Trip
Find out more – https://
www.feldamsee.at/de/
• Canoeing
Find out more – http://
www.konstanz.de
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HOTEL
Country Austria
HOTEL BRENNSEEHOF
FAMILY FRIENDLY RESORT
OF THE YEAR
Seestraße 19 9544 Feld am See • Tel +43
4246 2495 • brennseehof.com
Whether in summer or winter, the
picturesque setting of Feld Am See will
provide the perfect holiday for the
whole family. There is no better place
to take advantage of the incredible
scenery than at the Hotel Brennseehof.
A partner of Kinder Hotels Europe,
Mountain Bike Holidays and Tennis
Hotels, this establishment offers a
unique combination of family and
sporting activities and a four-star hotel
in a lakefront setting. Families can
enjoy a wealth of sporting activities,
such as tennis, sailing, surfing, biking,
beach volleyball, basketball, football
and basketball. Additionally, the
comprehensive activity programme
offers seven swimming pools,
gymnastics, tours and excursions in the
surrounding valley. To keep even the
youngest of visitors entertained, Hotel
Brennseehof provides professional
child assistance and a car, with a
dedicated kid’s entertainment
programme. Parents too are well
catered for, with a spa and sauna. The
hotel offers large and comfortable
rooms and apartments. The complex
also offers Hotel Alte Post, a charming
guest house in the centre of Feld am
See, for those families that desire a little
more privacy and relaxation.
Ideal
combination of
family & sports
holidays at a
small lake
TOUR
Switzerland
BLS NAVIGATION
ATTRACTION OF
THE YEAR
Lachenweg 19, 3604 Thun,
Switzerland • Tel +41 58 327 48 11
• bls.ch/schiff
BLS Navigation operates
steam and motor boats on the
lakes around Interlaken.The
lakes Thun and Brienz are
located in the middle of the
world famous Bernese alps
including Jungfrau mountain –
a designated UNESCO world
heritage area. BLS Navigation
offers a unique experience to
enjoy this fantastic landscape
on board of its boats on two
lakes, making this area accessible
for everyone. BLS is also
running the largest private
train network in Switzerland
and offers specialised touristic
packages. If you were wondering
that they are just another
transportation company, you
are wrong. BLS also provides
tours and excursions to various
attractions of the area. Not
only do they show you the
country but also take you back
into the history of the navigation
on the lakes Thun and
Brienz which is more than
hundred and eighty years old.
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HOTEL
Italy
LIDO PALACE
UNIQUE GUEST HOUSE OF THE YEAR
Viale Carducci 10, 38066 Riva del Garda, TN, Italy • Tel +39 0464
021899 • lido-palace.it
Tucked away on the shores of Lake Garda in Riva del
Garda, Lido Palace stands out as a luxury retreat. This
heritage building played host to royalty in the past and
today it offers the same level of opulence post -restoration
and redesigning. The location of the hotel provides you with
some splendid views of Italian lakes and alpine scenery. The
19 th -century building itself is a masterpiece that definitely
does deserve some exploration. Whether you’re visiting the
hotel alone or with your family, they offer a wide range of
rooms for you to choose from. Equipped with the finest of
amenities and stunning views, the hotel ensures that you are
pampered throughout your stay and treated royally by the
staff.
The in-house restaurant, Il Re della Busa is hidden away
in the bow of a ship-like structure close to the lake and is
furnished to give a very cozy ambiance. Executive Chef
Giuseppe Sestito and his team prepare the finest of seafood
here for you to devour on the exclusive candle-lit terrace of
the restaurant. You can choose from a selection of wines to
have along with the gourmet dinner too.
Alternatively, you can have the most amazing Mediterranean
cuisine at Tremani bistrot. The chefs work hard to create
tantalizing dishes that will make you an instant fan of the
bistro. Moreover, they specially make low calorie lunches
for those using the CXI Spa! For those who enjoy cocktails,
Bali Bar is the perfect place to sip on some fine cocktails
with munchies to accompany the drinks.
Apart from this, the hotel also features an elegant spa where
you can get some relaxing and rejuvenating massages from
experienced masseuses. If you wish to go for a swim, the
hotel has indoor and outdoor swimming pools too.
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Made in Bern
Bern Baby Bern – 10 Highlights
Exhilarating moments and thrills galore await you in Bern.
From the UNESCO-protected capital to the world-famous
Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau, you will find everything your heart
desires! Here are 10 places in the canton of Bern that you
really need to see before you leave:
Gstaad – Fondueland
Delicious fondues with panoramic
views are on offer at Fondueland
Gstaad. Waiting for cheese-lovers
are two purpose-built huts and two
oversized caquelons, which can
cater for up to eight people. And
after the fondue, a circular hike
on foot or a short bike ride in the
fresh air will help you to digest the
cheese you have enjoyed so much.
Old Town of Bern – capital city
and World Cultural Heritage site
in one
The Bernese Old Town has been a UNESCO
World Cultural Heritage site since 1983. The
arcades are an inviting place for a stroll,
and the basement venues include shops,
restaurants and cultural activities that are just
waiting to be discovered. And there is the
Aare river. Locals and tourists love bathing
in the cool water. A summer visit to the city is
not complete without a detour to the Marzili.
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Lake Oeschinen – glacier water
above Kandersteg
From Kandersteg you can walk up to Lake
Oeschinen in about an hour and a half.
Alternatively, you can also take the gondola
to this lake located in the extended UNESCO
World Natural Heritage site. Its deep blue
waters flow from the surrounding glacier
brooks. Nevertheless, or even more precisely
because of this, it is also a popular bathing
lake in summer.
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Schilthorn – secret
agents on the trail
(BondMountain)
It takes three quarters of an hour
for the Piz Gloria Restaurant
on the Schilthorn to revolve
once around its axis. During
their meal, visitors can enjoy
the entire panorama – from
Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau to
Mont Blanc. James Bond, on
the other hand, did not have
as much time to enjoy the view.
This was where the British
secret agent hunted down Ernst
Stavro Blofeld (played by Telly
Savalas), making the Schilthorn
world-famous.
Emmentaler Show
Dairy– the secret of
thecheese
Emmental cheese has many
fans, but not many people know
how it is produced. Do you
know how the holes get into the
cheese or how long it takes until
this Emmental specialty is ready
to enjoy? Find out first-hand at
the show dairy. Guided tours
and daily attractions are on
offer.
Tropenhaus
Frutigen – where
sturgeon live in the
tropics
Exotic fruits, tropical
plants and locally
produced caviar are
all on offer at the
Tropenhaus Frutigen.
Warm water from the
Lötschberg is used to
grow the fruit. The first
sturgeons to be bred in
the Alps are found here.
Visitors can experience
this world of adventure
both individually and on
guided tours.
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Sherlock Holmes and the
Reichenbach falls
At first sight a water fall in Meringen and
an English detective do not have a lot in
common, but...The English author and creator
of the brilliant detective Sherlock Holmes,
Arthur Conan Doyle, often visited the Bernese
Oberland. He always stayed at the Hotel
zum Wilden Mann in Meiringen. Fascinated
by the beauty of the region and by the
roaring Reichenbach Falls in particular, he
incorporated Meiringen, the hotel and the
waterfall in his novel “The Final Problem” 77

Kayaking on a Wintery Lake
If you don’t feel up to skiing but still want
to spend a few hours in a “winter fairy
tale”, Bönigen is the place to be! Here
the Hightide kayak school offers guided
kayaking trips on Lake Brienz. You paddle
over the lake in small groups and enjoy
the silence, the play of light on the water
and the snowy mountain scenery which
extends around the water and between
the Emmental and the Bernese Alps.
Junfraujoch – Top of Europe
The view sweeps over the Aletsch Glacier,
the snow and the mountains, and the air
is cold. The Jungfraujoch is one of the
tourist highlights of the canton of Bern,
if not of all of Switzerland. At 3,454
metres above sea level you can certainly
feel the elements here. And what is really
astonishing is the engineering feat that
enables visitors to reach this high Alpine
world by train.
AUSTRIA
Austria is often considered to be one
of the top winter holiday destinations,
and with its snow-capped peaks it’s
easy to see why. But there is so much
more to Austria just waiting to be discovered
and explored.
Uncover Austria on a summer adventure to reveal
the hidden gems of some of the country’s most
beautiful landscapes, towns and natural delights.
Experience the diversity of Austrian culture on a
city break, where museums, amazing architecture
and festivals for all senses await. Or take to
outdoor exploration – atop mountains, amidst
green expanses and on lakes as clear as they
come. Here, nature is an all-ages playground,
and your hosts will only be too happy to guide
you along the way.
Adventure under a Roof
of Snow
There are various places where
you can spend the winter
under a roof of snow. You will
have thick fur blankets to keep
you warm as you soak up the
romantic ambience created by
the flickering candlelight.
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French Top 5
Paris
Narbonne
market is comparable to the Boqueria
de Barcelona for its architecture and its
variety of products.
Nimes
Discover Paris and all it has to offer
including history, culture, leisure,
cuisine. Its cafes and boats on the
Seine, its elegant neighbourhoods and
its shops, its metro and its musicians,
its monuments, squares, quays, and
fountains. The French are justly proud
of their capital. Begin with the symbol
of the city: the Eiffel Tower. From its
peak at 300 metres, you will enjoy a
breathtaking view over the rooftops of
the capital. Built for the 1889 Universal
Exhibition, the monument remains the
highest observation tower in Europe.
At its foot is the Champ De Mars, where
some of the biggest events of the City
are held. Enjoy a picnic on the lawn,
take in the lights at night and feel the
magic of the Peace Wall which fronts the
Military School. No visit to Paris would
be complete without a trip to the Louvre
on the banks of the river Seine. This royal
palace needs no introduction and is
impossible to see everything in one visit.
But essential viewing is Leonardo Da
Vinci´s La Gioconda and the department
of Egyptian antiquities. The museum has
just opened a new section dedicated to
the most stunning Islamic art. Guaranteed
to raise goosebumps to any discerning
art lover. Celebrate French gastronomy
at the Louchebem, an old butcher shop
in the Les Halles district, downtown Paris
where the dishes of beef are out of this
world. Nearby in the Bastille area is the
Cafe de L’Industrie, a typical Parisian
cafe offering reasonably priced food
and drinks alongside a pleasant French
atmosphere.
The magic of the South of France should
be explored in its entirety. An area
of particular interest historically and
architecturally is Narbonne. Situated
on the Canal de la Robine, Narbonne
is a city with an abundance of Roman
architecture still retained in the medieval
streets and Roman roads. Attractions
on offer include the impressive 13thcentury
Cathedral, a medieval palace
with art gallery and museum as well as
the Horreum, a Roman warehouse with
underground art galleries. The main
square hosts the revered Via Domitia,
the first Roman road built in Gaul,
created around 118 ac with the purpose
of facilitating the transport of Roman
armies, and where Hercules along with
50,000 Carthaginian soldiers and 37
elephants passed through on his way to
conquer Italy. I
In addition to having the best buffet
restaurant in Europe, Les Grands
Buffets, Narbonne has one of the most
colourful and spectacular markets in
the area, Les Halles. This centennial
Situated in the Languedoc-Roussillon
region, Nimes is a relatively small town
with a population of 150,000. Nimes,
like Narbonne, has almost flawless
Roman formations and architecture.
Even more so in fact due to the incredibly
impressive and well preserved Roman
amphitheatre, Les Arenes, with a seat
capacity of seat 16,000 and is still
used today to commemorate the Roman
Games of Nimes. In addition a temple
known as Maison Carree, a Roman
temple dating from the sixteenth century
and Corinthian in style with columns of
marble. Apart from these two perfect
statements of Roman architecture,
Nimes is a legacy to Roman history and
is nicknamed French Rome. Narrow
streets add to the charm of Nimes, and
some of the best restaurants in the world
showcasing French flavours and talent
makes Nimes a gastronomical delight.
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Montpellier
The Loire Valley
Montpellier, located in the south of
France, is a city full of charm where
medieval and modern go hand in
hand. Founded in the 8 th -century, it is
the eighth most populated city in France
with around 300,000 inhabitants.
Famous for its Faculty of Medicine,
one of the oldest in the world founded
in 1220; the classrooms boast famous
figures such as Nostradamus, Ramon
Llull, Guillaume Rondelet and Arnau de
Vilanova.
Culturally the city is incredibly vibrant
with an open-air museum, urban art
such as the incredible “trumpe l”oeil”
bringing life to plain walls in the city
and confusing the eye since the 1990s
thanks to the talents of artists such as
Zevs and Space Invader.
Montpelier is a typical French romantic
city which has not lost its charm despite
rapid growth in recent times. A great
place to relax is the Place de la Comédie,
a large pedestrianised square (although
it is nicknamed “the egg” due to its oval
shape). It has played an important
role in the life of the city for over 250
years. Here you can sit and take a
coffee, eat at one of the restaurants
or shop in the trendy boutiques. A
popular meeting place surrounded
by 19 th -Century architecture including
the Opera Comedie, a majestic 19th
Century opera house with an elegant
facade, columns and arched windows.
The centre of the square features an
impressive fountain depicting the Greek
mythological Charites, the statue of
Zeus´s three daughters.
Visit the famous Castles of the Loire
Valley, commonly referred to as
“the garden of France”. Recently
declared a World Heritage Site the
Loire Valley is home to more than fifty
Renaissance castles such as Chambord,
Chenonceaux and Usse.
A great way to explore the whole area
is by bicycle. Cycle through the Loire
Valley starting at Orleans and wind up in
Angers, a total 800 kilometre bike ride
is available for the more adventurous.
Discover this part of France with its
picturesque villages, journey through
leafy forests along designated cycle
routes making new friends along the
way.
There are several shorter routes or travel
itineraries involving train hopping or
transfer companies to assist along the
way to break up the journey for those
less energetic although the cycles routes
are perfectly ideal for families as the
area is reasonably flat and well paved
with designated rest stops along the
route for refreshments.
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TOUR
France Portugal
CELINA CEDRIC’S TOURS PARIS
THE TAILOR AWARD MADE FOR TOUR
EXCELLENCE COMPANY OF IN THE SERVICE YEAR
Av cedricsparis@gmail.com Estados Unidos da América, •
142 cedricsparis.com
– 1dto, 1700 – 180 Lisboa,
Portugal • Tel + 00351 — 926 049
232 A personalized • celina-tours.com tour inside the
original convertible “2 chevaux” is
Celina what you Tours get offers when quality traveling tours with
of Cedric’s Lisbon Paris. and Sintra that suit all
tastes.
Traverse charming streets and tiny
Guests can explore the grand
squares of the city that are unknown
architecture and fairy tale-like
to tourists and to even many
wonder of the palaces of Sintra
Parisians! Whether you’re looking
Cascais and Sintra Mafra,
to see the city at night sipping
indulge in the city after hours
Champagne or into discovering it
on the Lisbon by Night tour or
beyond the famous monuments,
take in the top tourist attractions
every single tour is possible when
on the Lisbon City Tour. For
traveling with them. For larger
those that wish to explore
groups, a 1976 VolksWagen
further afield, Celina Tours also
Kombi “Bert” is the perfect vehicle
organises tours in five other
to drive around the city and enjoy
destinations that promise to
time with family. If you’re more of
take you deeper into Portugal
a walker, a private walking tour
and provide an in-depth look
around the lively markets and the
into the country’s history and
hidden gardens of the city is all
culture. With quality hospitality
you need to discover Paris like a
on offer and prime importance
native Parisian! A bachelorette
given to the security of the
party special tour is available as
tourists, Celina also offers
well. With an option to customize
fully flexible itineraries to
the tours according to your needs,
give their guests the best and
it is possible to make the most out of
most personal experience of
your trips to Paris.
Portugal possible. With indepth
attention given to even
the size of groups to make the
best out of the tour, visitors are
guaranteed an excellent service.
“Tailor made
sightseeing tours in
Paris with a local in
a vintage car!”
TOUR
France
AMERICAN
CONCIERGE
PRIVATE TOUR COMPANY
OF THE YEAR
45 Wall Street, #2203 New York, NY
10005 USA • Tel +866-867-2747 •
americanconcierge.com
Founded in New York, American
Concierge offers privately guided
tours of Paris along with multi —
day customised itineraries of the
City of Lights.
Immerse yourself in a bespoke
Parisian experience and get to
know the city from the eyes of the
local residents. Based on what
you want to do, itineraries are
created that help you make unique
memories of the city; discover the
sprawling palace of Versailles
or the elegant Louvre Museum
and marvel at some of the nest
jazz bars with the help of the
exclusive tours offered by American
Concierge. The customization of
each trip is made easy by a brief
conversation where they will ask a
few questions to learn about your
hobbies and interests and make
recommendations on tours inside
Paris and day trips outside the city.
For an extra special trip, American
Concierge offers a biannual trip,
one-week of tours with the founder
of the company; with just ten guests
in each tour, you are guaranteed
the best service and a personal
introduction to Paris.
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35 853

Paris
JUAN JEREZ
DEL VALLE
Q&A
QUESTION: Tell us a little about yourself
JUAN JEREZ DEL VALLE: I think my first
contact with photography was during my years
as a student of Art History in Granada. I spent
hours and hours watching images, not only
photographs but also building plans, façades,
engravings and, especially, paintings. The
history of painting has a great influence on my
work. I was fascinated by the universal power of
the image, the narrative capability of the forms.
Photography is for me a way of seeing the
world, of being in the world. In the same way
as literature, photography is an instrument which
allows you to have access to the essence of
things, a ticket for the front row in a show. I
have always dreamed of having the ability to
create images capable of telling a story, the
ability to become a kind of writer working not
with words but with lights, shadows, shapes...
Q: What made you decide to set up a Photo
Blog in Paris?
JJDL: I moved to Paris for work. I immediately
fell in love with the city. During the first three
months, I used to spend the whole day walking
and shooting and, after that, I had a lot of
material to show. I decided to start sharing
myphotos atthat time.
Q: What are some of the most photography
trends right now in the city?
JJDL: It depends. There are a lot of classic
spots in Paris and normally most people try to
photograph them. But there are also new places
which catch theattention of the creatives and
inspire them. For example, there is a basketball
court in Pigalle reallypopular now; the colors of the the
ground are fantastic. The Louis Vuitton Foundation in the Bois
the Boulogne is another trendy place.
Q: Are there any neighbourhoods you’d recommend to
perfectly capture the city?
JJDL: Well, if you really want to capture the city I recommend
not to go to the touristic neighborhoods and visit other places.
You will be able to find a different Paris, moreauthentic. The
11 th and 20 th districts are perfect for that. The area behind
the Bastille or around the Père Lachaise cemetery, the Parc
des Buttes- Chaumont or the Aligre market arefantastic for
that.
Q: Have you ever considered showing people around
yourself, maybe doing a photography tour?
JJDL: Yes and, actually, I have already done it and I have to
say I loved it! It was a wonderful experience. I have studied
History of Art and I really like to explain the history of a city
(I did it in Rome for along time). If, in addition, we can also
take photos, the combination is perfect!
Q: Best place to grab a coffee & why?
JJDL: I really love the coffees in the 5th arrondissement. I
lived there for one year when I moved to Paris. The coffees
on Rue Mouffetard oraround the Pantheon are my favorites.
Q: Favourite local Restaurant?
JJDL: Well, I really love a popularrestaurant near Bastille.
I usually go there once or twice a week.It’s a verytypical
Parisian restaurant. Its name is Cafe deL’industrie
Q: What is the “best off the beaten path” attraction?
JJDL: One hidden place I love is the Promenade Plantée,
a former elevated railway track transformed now into an
Urban park.
Q: Where would you go for a day trip outside the city?
JJDL: I would go to Normandie. Ireally love its landscape and
there you can find the closest beaches to Paris. The cliffs of
Etretat, the old port of Honfleur, the local food...Everything
is wonderful!
Q: What would you say is the best way to get around Paris?
JJDL: To get lost as the flâneur of Baudelaire. To walk
aimlessly, following the beauty of the city.
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Eiffel Tower
Image by: Chris Karidis
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Amsterdam Event Calendar
AMSTERDAM – THE EVENTFUL EUROPEAN EXPERIENCE
MARCH – MAY
Event: The HISWA Amsterdam
Boat Show
Event: The Day of the King
(formerly the Queen)
Date: 7th March through to
11th March 2018
Date: 27th April 2018
Amsterdam is renowned as one of the
most cosmopolitan and liberal cities
in Europe. It has a broad cultural
appeal and during the year hosts
a great deal of international events
and over 300 festivals covering a
wide range of genres from outdoor
film showings to dance events
lasting several days. From festivals
for children to art and fashion,
culinary events to music concerts.
From festivals celebrating the tulip
to bi-annual boat shows. The range
is wide and diverse. Most popular
are the Kings Festival, the Festival
of Lights, TheGranchtenfestival and
Gay pride. For art lovers, there is
always a collection to excite and
amaze, including Dutch Masters
from the Hermitage collection
including some exquisite Rembrandts
alongside a variety of rare works of
art. It promises to be a breathtaking
exhibition. Conferences, keynotes,
various exhibitions and networking
events take place regularly and all
over Amsterdam. The main congress
and convention centre is the RAI,
one of the largest business centres
in Europe which hosts more than 50
events throughout the year including
car shows, fashion displays,
equestrian events, sporting and
cultural events. There are a number
of restaurants including a city beach
for those wishing to combine business
with pleasure.
A spectacular water sports event not to
be missed. A huge display of boats and
nautical accessories featuring cuttingedge
innovation and design. Exhibitors
will be presenting boats of all shapes
and sizes from classic ships to modern
cruising boats, offering workshops and
interesting programmes.
A fantastic experience and a national
holiday where there are only two rules:
wear orange and have a great time at
one of the largest and most colourful
festivals in Amsterdam. With activities
of all kinds throughout the city such as a
huge open-air market, art exhibitions and
well-known DJs.
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AMSTERDAM
TOUR
– THE EVENTFUL EUROPEAN EXPERIENCE
France
MARCH – MAY
HOTEL
Netherlands
Event: Hemeltjelief Festival
FLAVORS OF PARIS
Date: 10th May 2018
TOUR GUIDE OF THE YEAR
The Hemeltjelief festival is a family festival
Paris, France • Tel +33 06 40 40 00 66 •
flavorsofparis.com
that takes place every year to mark
the occasion of the Catholic Ascension
Flavors festival. of The Paris’ event presents carefully a rich vetted musical
walking and theatrical and program, tasting as tours well as will many
guide activities you and to some events. of the The finest main little stages
Parisian are traditionally food shops, located cafés, on the and banks
markets
of the River
where
IJ and
you
host
can
famous
meet
DJs
the
and
locals and sample some of the best
local upcoming bands. In addition, there
French foods.
are a number of theatre performances,
With
exhibitions
three
and
major
workshops
tours carefully
from 11 am
crafted to offer you a wide variety
to 11 pm.
of French fare, ranging from crispy
baguettes to splendid wines, you
can be assured of a once-in-alifetime
experience.
You can also customize your tours
according to your requirements,
be it a small group or a large one.
Every aspect of the tour is kept
flexible to ensure that you receive
the best experience possible.
HILTON AMSTERDAM
AIRPORT SCHIPHOL
DESIGN HOTEL OF THE YEAR
Schiphol Boulevard 701, Schiphol, 1118 BN,
Netherlands • Tel +31-20-7104000 • amsterdamairportschiphol.hilton.com
This airport hotel redefines what an airport
hotel should be.
Hilton Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is
unlike many other airport hotels. Groundbreaking,
visionary and inspirational, its
breath-taking design redefines what an
airport hotel should be.
The hotel’s seemingly endless geometric
façade and vast, open lobby is a fitting
welcome to the level of outstanding service
and facilities that await each and every
guest.
Fresh, bold, and surprising are all worthy
descriptions of the spacious rooms and
first-class amenities, including Bowery
Restaurant offering Asian & Grill specialties
served from the three open kitchens and
Axis Lobby & Cocktail Bar, where you
share your taste and flavour preferences
and the bartender creates that drink to
perfectly match your style. Looking for
some relaxation? eforea spa offers a wide
variety of treatments including facials and
massages and features a whirlpool, sauna
and steam room.
Hilton Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is
perfectly situated for business and leisure
travellers; downtown Amsterdam, and
various attractions are just 15 minutes
away.
Visionary and
inspirational, its
breath taking
what an airport
hotel should be.
36 92
37 93

AMSTERDAM – THE EVENTFUL EUROPEAN EXPERIENCE
JUNE – AUGUST
Event: Holland Festival
Date: June 7th 2018 – July 1st 2018
Event: Julidans Festival
Date: July 3rd, 2018 – July 14th 2018
Event: Applesap Fresh Music Festival
Date: August 11th 2018
Since June 1947 Amsterdam has
carried on this annual festival tradition
of music, dance and theatre. Each year
top artists from around the world are in
Amsterdam to perform both classical and
contemporary music, dance and theatre.
The Festival is one of the highlights of
the cultural season and offers up new
talent along with established artists and
is always innovative and original in its
approach to venues and styles of events.
The Julidans Festival is an essential
event in the international contemporary
dance scene. To be at the event is to
be at the pulsing heartbeat of the latest
trends and creations in this area of art
and is an important event especially for
choreographers and dancers who aim
to express themselves using new dance
forms with the aim of stirring up emotions
within the audience and themselves.
Applesap Fresh Music Festival delivers
fresh music vibes to the city with exciting
top named artists alongside fresh local
talent. In proper festival form there will
be food from all over the planet to sustain
extreme festival activities.
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HOTEL
Netherlands
ANDAZ AMSTERDAM
HOTEL & SPA OF THE YEAR
Prinsengracht 587, 1016 HT Amsterdam,
The Netherlands • Tel +31 20 523 1234 •
amsterdamprinsengracht.andaz.hyatt.com
The award- winning design of the Andaz Amsterdam
Prinsengracht, done by famous Dutch Designer
Marcel Wanders, helps us to create wonderful
experiences for our guests.
But what really makes the difference is our genuine
contact with our guests. Amsterdam’s storied past
collides with the vibrant energy of the city at Andaz
Amsterdam Prinsengracht.
Our boutique hotel features 122 guestrooms and
suites welcoming our guests to enjoy a stylish
retreat in the heart of the city. Our guestrooms
and suites offer abundant natural light and views
of the Prinsengracht canal, landscaped gardens,
or our Observatorium. Each space was designed
by Dutch architect and designer Marcel Wanders.
Enjoy exclusive access to our video art channels in
each room.
Around our hotel’s every corner, from the lifts to
the bathrooms, you’ll discover unique works of
art including magical murals, wallpaper stories,
sculptural furniture, and more. Can you find them
all? When hunger strikes, enjoy rustic European
cuisine with a Dutch twist at Bluespoon Restaurant
and handcrafted cocktails at Bluespoon Bar, our
hotel bar with a speakeasy vibe. However you
choose to spend your time in Amsterdam, the always
chic Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht awaits.
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AMSTERDAM – THE EVENTFUL EUROPEAN EXPERIENCE
SEPTEMBER – DECEMBER
Event: Unseen Amsterdam
Event: TCS Amsterdam Marathon
Event: Museum Night
Event: Amsterdam Light Festival
Date: 21st – 23rd September 2018
Date: October 14th 2018
Date: 3rd November 2018
Date: December 2018 – January 2019 (exact dates to
be confirmed)
Unseen Amsterdam is a photographic
festival showcasing promising and
talented photographers and providing
them with a platform to exhibit their work
as well as providing an opportunity for
accomplished photographers to provide
support and dissemination.
The TCS Amsterdam Marathon is one
of the fastest marathons in Europe and
benefits from careful organisation. The
start and finish is located in the Olympic
Stadium and there is the opportunity
to run the whole marathon or the half
marathon. Enjoy one of the most active
and cosmopolitan cities of the continent
in an active manner.
On the first Saturday of November
of every year around 50 museums in
Amsterdam open their doors from 7:00
pm to 2:00 am and organize special
activities that include workshops, concerts,
special tours and performances. All this
is accompanied by delicious appetizers
and glasses to help you keep your energy
levels high.
It is always a good time to visit
Amsterdam, but the annual Festival of
Light in Amsterdam makes a visit in the
winter very special. 2018 marks the sixth
edition of this festival and takes place
on land and water. The organisers invite
local and worldwide artists to submit
their work and provides a platform to
showcase groundbreaking and genius
concepts of light artwork.
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HOTEL
Netherlands
SOFITEL LEGEND THE GRAND
AMSTERDAM
HISTORIC HOTEL OF THE YEAR
Oudezijds Voorburgwal 197, 1012 EX Amsterdam,
Netherlands • Tel +31 20 555 3111 • accorhotels.com
Hotel Sofitel Legend The Grand is no ordinary hotel; it indeed
is a historic site in Amsterdam. Originally, there were two
convents here – St. Cecily’s and St. Katherine’s. The hotel was
built on this very site and the structures of these ancient
convents are still very much visible like the tiny tower on the
rooftop of the hotel which was a part of St. Cecily’s Convent.
You can choose from the wide variety of rooms and suites
available here which give you different levels of luxury. These
lavishly furnished accommodations come with every possible
amenity that you can think of. For instance, the Imperial Suites
boast of a steam room, freestanding bathtub and butler service
throughout the day.
The hotel has daily private tours of the hotel itself and can
arrange royal breakfast and private dinners for you with much
sophistication. You could explore the historic part of the city of
Amsterdam in a horse driven carriage too.
To satiate your gastronomic requirements, the hotel has plenty
of fine dining restaurants, cafes and bars. You can dine at
Hotspot Bridges and enjoy some classic cocktails at the
Cocktail Bar. Alternatively, you could have an after dinner
cigar at the Cigar Lounge or read some books at the Library
‘OR’. The hotel has a garden terrace where you can sit in the
tranquility of nature and enjoy your food and drinks. The So
Spa is a peaceful oasis in the hotel where you can unwind and
pamper yourself with Turkish steam bath, indoor heated
swimming pool, sauna and treatment rooms where you can
get relaxing massage at the hands of experienced masseuses.
Moreover, you can keep up with your fitness schedule at So Fit
gym. The hotel host meetings and events too.
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101 83

Austria
Austria is often considered to be one of the top
winter holiday destinations, and with its
snow-capped peaks it’s easy to see why. But
there is so much more to Austria just waiting to -
be discovered and explored.
Uncover Austria on a summer adventure to
reveal the hidden gems of some of the
country’s most beautiful landscapes, towns -
and natural delights. Experience the diversity
of Austrian culture on a city break, where
museums, amazing architecture and festivals
for all senses await. Or take to outdoor
exploration – atop mountains, amidst green
expanses and on lakes as clear as they come.
Here, nature is an all-ages playground, and
your hosts will only be too happy to guide you
along the way.
Home to many of the most snowsure
resorts in the Alps, come
winter Austria offers sensational
slopes and authentic villages with
legendary hospitality to provide
a base for your stay. Austria’s
sophisticated ski infrastructure
receives significant investment
each year, with higher, faster,
bigger lifts and extended ski
areas continuously upgrading
the choice for winter guests.
Whichever season you decide to
visit, take advantage of countless
direct flight connections from the
UK and find yourself in Austria
within the space of a couple of
hours.
For further information on
holidays in Austria, visit: www.
austria.info
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Shopping in Vienna
Austria’s capital city, Vienna, shows no shortage of options when the topic is “shopping”.
Most stores open from 9h until 18h30, Monday to Friday, sometimes extending their
working hours until 21h on Thursdays. On Saturdays, businesses tend to close at around
17h or 17h30.
Vienna proudly sustains old habits,
and it is possible to find classical
homeware brands that still hold the
title of “Hoflieferant” – a symbol of
quality and tradition that reassembles
the time of caterers of Austria’s
imperial court. Both Lobmeyr – an
old manufacturer of crystal pieces –
and Augarten – maker of Viennese
porcelain – used to produce objects
for the aristocratic families, but now
feature more contemporaneous
attitudes.
In the heart of Vienna, amidst its historical streets, there is a wide choice of
international brands who chose to set up their stores on a specific pedestrian area,
transforming classical addresses into places where new fashion tendencies emerge.
Between Kohlmarkt, Graben, and Kärntner streets are the most exclusive open-air
shopping area in Vienna – known as “Goldenes Quartier” – with big fashion
names such as Burberry, Chanel, Dior, Salvatore Ferragamo, among others. On
Tuchlauben and Am Hof streets, there are influential brands like Emporio Armani,
Louis Vuitton, and Prada’s biggest store in Europe; while other up-and-coming
names like Marc Jacobs, Fendi, and Chloé can be found on Sterngasse street.
Kärntner Ring street comprises a
bunch of department stores – like
Steffl and Peek & Cloppenburg –
that sell clothes, accessories and
perfumery. Another shopaholic
address in Vienna is the Ringstrassen
Galerien – a huge mall with various
stores and restaurants. For the ones
who are into crystals, there is a threestory
Swarovski shop on Kärntner
Strasse that boasts a wide range
of jewelry and decoration pieces
designed by the famous Austrian
company.
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TOUR
Italy
The region sliced by Mariahilfer Strasse was once the route of ancient emperors who
passed between the Schönbrunn Palace and Hofburg. Nowadays, it concentrates
an assortment of shops and is one of the favorite places of those seeking apparel,
shoes, and items of interior design – another specialty of Vienna. Just south of
Mariahilfer, Gumpendorfer Strasse is the right choice for design aficionados. This
WINE TOUR
AMALFI COAST
area was taken over by young, both local and international, creative designers, as
a way of exhibiting their work in small and charming ateliers.
WINE The “seventh TOUR district,” COMPANY north of Mariahilfer, is considered by many as the creative
OF hub THE of Vienna. YEAR This lively region is great for a casual walk, as well as for the
ones who enjoy hunting for exclusive, unsung items from small designers. Near
Via Museum Panoramica Quartier, 31, 84010, aside Conca from finding unique in vogue stores, one can grab lunch
dei Marini, Salerno, Italia • Tel +39 333
or a coffee in one of the modern restaurants and bars that fill the area and bring a
3432830 • winetouramalficoast.com
contemporaneous touch to the more classical air of Vienna.
Wine Tours Amalfi Coast takes you on
a journey across the Amalfi Coast for
excursions to some of the most famous
and historic places in the area.
Gastronomical delights such as
mozzarella of Lattari Mounts await
you along with some exotic native
wines of Reale which wait to be
discovered as well. Traditional recipes
are also taught and you can actually
try your hand at cooking them in the
kitchen. The lemon tours take you on
a trip to discover the ‘yellow gold’ of
Amalfi Coast on the numerous terrace
gardens overlooking the sea. Cheese
lovers are sure to get excited in the
mozzarella tasting tours, where you
will be taught how to prepare
mozzarella! All the adventure lovers
can retrace the footpaths and mule
tracks running across ridges of
mountains along the Divine Coast.
Guests are made to feel special by
their transfer services, where you can
easily reach your destination without
any hassles. With some exquisite
all-round experiences to offer, you can
never be disappointed when traveling
with them.
HOTEL
Austria
PARK HYATT VIENNA
ELEGANT HOTEL OF THE YEAR
Am Hof 2 Vienna, Austria, 1010 • Tel +43 1
22740 1234 • parkhyattvienna.com
Park Hyatt is located in the very heart
of Vienna and offers unparalleled
elegance and grandeur.
With 143 spacious rooms and suites
with remarkable furnishings and built
with a fusion of contemporary style and
Viennese accents, staying here is a very
comfortable experience for all. Situated
in a 100-year old building, this hotel
truly reflects the history of Vienna; with a
convenient central location, guests can
find the most important and impressive
sites of the city within easy walking
distance. Exquisite dining experiences
await your arrival at The Bank Brasserie
& Bar while hot beverages and dainty
snacks can be enjoyed at Café Am Hof.
Guests can also relax in the state-of-theart
Arany Spa with its indoor pool,
sauna, sanarium and vitality shower,
in addition to indulging in refreshing
massages from the expert therapists.
This pet-friendly hotel is also the place
to head to for conducting corporate
meetings or holding some functions in
their large banquet halls and meeting
rooms that are fully equipped to cater
to your requirements.
6108
1097

Hamburg | Germany
POPULATION
1,805,316
HOW TO GET IN
• Road
• Rail
• Fly in
• Ferry
Germany’s gateway to the world,
Hamburg is the second busiest port
in Europe
GET AROUND
• On Foot
• By Bike
• Taxi
• Metro
ATTRACTIONS & SIGHTS
• Hafen City
• Harbour Area
• Hamburg Museum
• Volksparkstadion
THINGS TO DO
• Boat Trips
• The Hamburg State
Opera House
• Sunday Fish Market
Find out more – http://
www.hamburg.com/
tourist-information/
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TOUR
Germany
BIG BLACK CAR TOURS
PRIVATE TOUR COMPANY OF
THE YEAR
Heiko Augustin, Nindorfer Strasse 10,
d-21641 Apensen, Germany •
Mob +49 (0)172 54 74 774 •
big-black-car-tours.com
If you’re looking to explore
Hamburg in a classy way, Big
Black Car Tours is the way to go.
Experience the sights and sounds of
the city in the comfort of your very
own SUV, a Lincoln Navigator!
Huge windows ensure that you can
get sweeping views of the city and
enjoy the tour with your close ones
instead of a regular tour where you
may have strangers sharing the
vehicle with you. The only person
accompanying you is the driver
who has thorough knowledge of
the city and will guide you in a fun
and professional manner. Whether
you wish to simply go around the
city or have a pub crawl, they are
here to serve you. Another fantastic
option is the three hour VIP Tour, for
only €190 per group and is a
great way to see the city in comfort
and style. Special occasions can be
celebrated with them as well.
Anyone who wants to experience
something special, wants to feel like
a celebrity, wants to see things that a
normal Sightseeing bus does not show, is
in perfect hands with Big Black Car Tours
Hamburg.
58 112
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SOUTHERN
EUROPE
Image by: Matt Artz
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Portugal – The Big Three
Portugal
With a long-lasting history as a powerful maritime empire, known for fruitful explorations
and diverse cultural influences, the Portuguese territory stretches to a series of archipelagos
(the Azores and Madeira) in the Atlantic. This relatively small chunk of land on the tip
of Europe’s Iberian Peninsula is sometimes overlooked by travelers; but it is precisely its
size and location that make it such an interesting place to explore.
Portugal’s continental landmass has an extensive, easily accessible coastline dotted with
villages and cities; while the autonomous Atlantic islands favour a more rustic lifestyle.
As the three main touristic regions of Portugal, the Algarve, Lisbon, and the islands of
Madeira somehow complement each other, portraying different dimensions of the rich
Portuguese culture.
The Algarve is the
southernmost region of
continental Portugal and
the country’s most popular
summer destination.
Unlike Lisbon, the Algarve
boasts a more provincial
air, where the landscape
seems to dictate the
pace of life and vast,
arid plains contrast with
an array of white sand
beaches.
Lisbon is one of the oldest
continuously inhabited
cities in the world; it’s also
both Portugal’s capital and
most populous city, where
most of the country’s
history is translated in
the form of landmarks
and monuments. By
walking along the city’s
hilly, pebbled streets, it
is possible to grasp the
magnitude of the cultural
transitions it went through,
currently perceptible in its
diverse architecture: from
Romanesque, Gothic,
Baroque, to Postmodern.
Meanwhile, the island
of Madeira rests as an
option for those willing to
go the extra mile in order
to see something different
– which is definitely worth
it. Not only is the island
known for its refined
gastronomy and wines,
but its flora and fauna
differ from mainland
Portugal. A highlight is
the northern slopes and
their “laurisilva” forests,
featuring an array of
native plants and birds
– attributes that have
designated the area as
a World Heritage Site by
UNESCO.
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Lisbon | Portugal
Algarve | Portugal
POPULATION
545,245
HOW TO GET IN
• Road
A spectacular European city and
Portugal’s capital built on seven hills.
POPULATION
451,006
HOW TO GET IN
• Road
Portugal’s most popular holiday
destination the Algarve is rich in
history, culture & diversity.
• Rail
• Rail
• Fly in
• Fly in
• Ferry
• Ferry
GET AROUND
GET AROUND
• On Foot
• On Foot
• Car
• Car
• Moped
• Train
• Taxi
• Tuk Tuk
• Metro
• By Bus
• Ferry
ATTRACTIONS & SIGHTS
• Ria Formosa Natural
Park
ATTRACTIONS & SIGHTS
• Tram 28
• Monchique Mountains
• Sao Rafael Beach
• Rossio
THINGS TO DO
• Jeronimos Monastery
• A Segway Tour
THINGS TO DO
• Explore Alfama
• Dinner at LX Factory
• Dolphin Watching
• Sailing
• Try the Piri Piri Chicken
• Hiking at Sintra Cascais
Natural Park
Find out more – http://
www.visitalgarve.pt/
Find out more – https://
www.visitlisboa.com/
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Madeira| Portugal
POPULATION
289,000
HOW TO GET IN
• Fly in
• Ferry
Located 620 miles from the European
continent Madeira has become known
as the Pearl of the Atlantic (Also home
of Cristiano Ronaldo)
GET AROUND
• By Bus
• Car
• Taxi
ATTRACTIONS & SIGHTS
• The Levadas
• Jardim do Monte
Palace
• Miradouro
THINGS TO DO
• Play Golf
• Kayaking
• Fishing
• Scuba Diving
Find out more – http://
www.visitmadeira.pt/engb/homepage
Image by: Adam Smigielski
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TOUR
Portugal
TAKING U THERE
DESTINATION SPECIALISTS
OF THE YEAR
Rua de Campolide, nº27 – 4º
esq. Lisboa 1070-026 Portugal •
Tel + +351 917 837 597 • takinguthere.com
Our destination specialist is
true to its name; they will take
you ‘there’ — to the very place
you want to visit.
Their off-the-beaten-track tours
open you up to the most unique
and popular parts of Portugal.
With small private groups of
two to 12 members, tours are
always engaging, in-depth and
personable. Taking U There
tour guides are characterised
by their passion for nature and
local history, and strive to pass
on valuable knowledge while
keeping their tours fun and
exciting. Art and architecture
fans can admire the beautiful
churches of Lisbon and visit
the famous Pena Palace in
Sintra, while nature lovers will
get their fair share in dolphin
watching tours off the coast
of Lisbon or bird watching
in Sesimbra. Taking U There
can also offer tours to the best
wineries across the region and
even organise a trip across the
Strait of Gibraltar to the exotic
cities of Morocco.
HOTEL
Portugal
AMENDOEIRA
GOLF RESORT
LUXURY GOLF RESORT
OF THE YEAR
Amendoeira Golf Resort, Morgado
da Lameira, 8365-302, Alcantarilha,
Algarve, Portugal • Tel +351 282 320
820 • www.amendoeiraresort.com
A mix of apartments and villas dot
the landscape of Amendoeira Golf
Resort, which is perfect for golfing
holidays as it sits next to two
championship golf courses.
It also serves as the perfect base
for exploring the countryside and
other leisure activities. With every
possible amenity available at your
fingertips in the apartments, you
can have a luxurious stay here.
Communal swimming pools and
children’s pools are available for the
apartments, while the villas have
their own private pools! The
clubhouse houses a large restaurant
and bar where you can indulge in
all-day breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Post-golf drinks can be enjoyed on a
spacious terrace which gives some
spellbinding views of the golf
courses around. The sports club here
has a full range of sports activities
including football fields, six tennis
courts, Technogym gymnasiums,
jogging path and children’s
playground. You can also learn golf
at the Amendoeira Golf Academy
during your stay.
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TOUR
Portugal
CELINA TOURS
THE AWARD FOR
EXCELLENCE IN SERVICE
Av Estados Unidos da América,
142 – 1dto, 1700 – 180 Lisboa,
Portugal • Tel + 00351 — 926 049
232 • celina-tours.com
Celina Tours offers quality tours
of Lisbon and Sintra that suit all
tastes.
Guests can explore the grand
architecture and fairy tale-like
wonder of the palaces of Sintra
Cascais and Sintra Mafra,
indulge in the city after hours
on the Lisbon by Night tour or
take in the top tourist attractions
on the Lisbon City Tour. For
those that wish to explore
further afield, Celina Tours also
organises tours in five other
destinations that promise to
take you deeper into Portugal
and provide an in-depth look
into the country’s history and
culture. With quality hospitality
on offer and prime importance
given to the security of the
tourists, Celina also offers
fully flexible itineraries to
give their guests the best and
most personal experience of
Portugal possible. With indepth
attention given to even
the size of groups to make the
best out of the tour, visitors are
guaranteed an excellent service.
HOTEL TOUR
Portugal France
AMERICAN HOTEL H10
CONCIERGE DUQUE DE LOULÉ
PRIVATE ELEGANT TOUR BOUTIQUE COMPANY
OF HOTEL THE OF YEAR THE YEAR
45 Wall Street, #2203 New York, NY
10005
Av. Duque
USA •
de
Tel
Loulé,
+866-867-2747
81-83, 1050-088,
•
americanconcierge.com
Lisbon, Portugal, • Tel +351 213 182
000 • h10hotels.com
Founded in New York, American
Concierge Located at the offers heart privately of Lisbon, guided Hotel
tours H10 Duque of Paris De along Loulé is with located multi in — a
day historical customised building itineraries and is furnished of the
City
in a
of Lights.
manner that reflects the
Immerse building’s yourself age. in a bespoke
Parisian experience and get to
know You will the city get from a feel the of eyes entering of the
local the 18residents. th -century Based when you on what walk
you through want the doors to do, of itineraries this hotel. With are
created 89 luxuriously that help you furnished make unique rooms
memories with modern of the and city; contemporary
discover the
sprawling elements, you palace can be of assured Versailles of
or utmost the comfort elegant when Louvre staying Museum here.
and You marvel can indulge at some in of traditional the nest
jazz
Portuguese
bars
and
with
Spanish
the help
flavors
of the
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exclusive tours offered by American
the Azul E Branco Restaurant or
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each
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can sip
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conversation cocktail the where Limao they Rooftop will ask Bar a
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hobbies If you love and books, interests you and can make head
recommendations over to Equestre on Bar tours and inside enjoy
Paris some and drinks day while trips outside reading the books. city.
For The an painstaking extra special effort trip, put American in by
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which
in each tour, you are guaranteed
exude elegance.
the best service and a personal
introduction to Paris.
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1253

HOTEL
Portugal
HOTEL BAIA AZUL
STYLISH HOTEL OF THE YEAR
Rua Quinta, Calaça, 1, 9004-530 Funchal Madeira,
Portugal • Tel +351 291 700 400 • grupocardoso.pt
Located in Funchal,this hotel offers you luxury with
close proximity to the main points of interest in the
city. You can choose to stay in one of the 215
well-appointed rooms that are designed in a
minimalistic manner keeping the surroundings in
mind. You can sit in these elegant rooms and watch
the infinite sea unfold in front of your eyes. The
swanky terrace of the hotel has cozy chairs for you
to sit and enjoy the views of the sea. The picture
perfect reception has a huge poster on the ceiling
that creates an illusion of a swimming pool
overhead!
You can choose to dine in one of the three
restaurants here, SAL, Ocean and Atlantic, which
serve Italian and Portuguese cuisines. The
restaurants have outdoor seating available as well
with beautiful views of the sea. What better way to
dive into delicious food than with a view of the
sea? You can sit on the plush furnishings in the pub
and sip on some fine cocktails and marvel at the
stylish interiors and the blue sea. Moreover, you
can unwind in the spa with some rejuvenating
treatments or dive into the pool. You could also go
for a Turkish bath, sauna or indulge in yoga in the
yoga room. You can keep up with your fitness
routine at the gym and finally relax in the
relaxation area. The hotel also has an outdoor pool
with sunbeds to relax and see the horizon. There is
also a small garden area for you to stroll around
while taking in the views of the sea.
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Barcelona | Spain
POPULATION
1,604,555
HOW TO GET IN
• Road
• Rail
• Fly in
• Ferry
The quintessential European city,
Barcelona has it all.
GET AROUND
• On Foot
• Bus
• Tuk Tuk
• By Bike
• Taxi
• Metro
ATTRACTIONS & SIGHTS
• La Sagrada Familia
• Camp Nou
• Las Ramblas
THINGS TO DO
• A Food Tour
• Ride the Montijuic
Cable Car
• Boat Trip
• Rent a bike & Explore
Find out more – http://
www.barcelonaturisme.
com/wv3/en/
Image by: Dennis Van Den Worm
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TOUR
Spain
BARCELONA HOLIDAY
DESTINATION SPECIALISTS OF THE YEAR
Plaza de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain •
Tel +34 627 92 91 93 • barcelonaholiday.es
Barcelona holiday are proud
to accept this award and will
go for it again next year
If you are visiting the region of Catalonia in Spain,
there is no better company to travel with than Barcelona
Holiday. They give you a chance to discover this
ancient land by showing you its historical spots as well
as the modern day cities like Barcelona.
What makes them special are their private tours.
These tours take you to the most important landmarks
in Catalonia with your close ones with an itinerary
that can be adapted according to your preferences.
To ensure supreme comfort, all tours are conducted
in VIP buses with chauffeur and professional guide.
You could take private tours to Pyrnee, All Dali and
Andorra. If you wish to see some ancient monuments,
they’ve got a tour for that as well. Fancy new food?
Here’s your chance to explore the food of Catalonia.
The Gastronomic Tours will give you the very best of
Catalan cuisines, including their famous wines.
They also have full and half day tours to Costa Brava.
In the full day tour, you will be able to see the life of
a fishing village – Calella de Palafrugell. Furthermore,
you will be able to explore the medieval town of Pals
and the trip will also take you on a boat ride around
the beautiful Medes Islands. Moreover, you can see
Greek and Roman ruins of Empuries.
In the half day tour, you will be able to see Lloret de
Mar in all its glory bustling with thousands of tourist
from all over the world who come here to enjoy the
beautiful beaches and activities. Moreover, this tour
will take you to Tossa de Mar by waterways and you
will be able to see the great landscape and historic
elements of this village. With such amazing tours,
you truly can experience the best of Catalan with
Barcelona Holiday.
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Trendy Barcelona
Adriana Gastelum
FAKE-LEATHER
Barcelona
Q&A
Q: What made you decide to set up a
Fashion Blog in Barcelona?
AG: I started my blog in Mexico because
I wanted a place for myself. It was never
meant to be a business or anything more
than a mere hobby. Luckily, it started to
get attention from readers, the media and
agencies and I’ve been able to move from
Mexico to Barcelona.
Q: What are some of the most popular trends
in fashion right now in the city?
AG: A mix between casual and formal in a
unisex way. Think crop tops with wide men
suit trousers and chunky sneakers. Gucci,
too.
Q: Are there any stores or neighbourhoods
you’d recommend to shopaholics visiting the
city?
AG: For luxury shopping you must go to
Passeig de Gràcia and Diagonal. If you are
more into local designers, small brands and
vintage, El Born is the neighbourhood to visit.
Q: Have you ever considered showing
people around yourself, maybe doing a
shopping tour?
AG: I take my friends out for shopping all
the time!
Q: Best place to grab a coffee & why?
AG: Anywhere in Example. So many options,
affordable and sunny sidewalks.
Q: Favourite Tapas Restaurant?
AG: I’m personally not a fan of tapas. Tapeo
is good, though.
A mix
between
casual and
formal in
a unisex
way.
Q: What is the “best off the beaten path”
attraction?
AG: Tibidabo in Spring and Summer. It’s a
whole day visit so make sure you get up early.
QUESTION: Tell us a little about yourself
ADRIANA GASTELUM: I’m a graphic
designer and photographer raised in Mexico,
living in Barcelona, Spain. I’m the editor for
Fake Leather which I started around seven
years ago when the blogging world was very
different, and Instagram was non-existent.
I also work as a food photographer for
restaurants in the city.
Q: Where would you go for a day trip
outside the city?
AG: Sitges is definitely my first option. You
don’t even need a car. Just an hour away in
train and you’re all set (make sure to bring
sunscreen).
Q: What would you say is the best way to get
around Barcelona?
AG: If you’re a local: the metro. It’s fast, easy
and cheaper than owning a car. If you’re a
tourist definitely by foot. I promise you won’t
get tired of it and architecture, urbanism and
the movement of the city will enchant you.
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TOUR
Spain
LIFESTYLE DMC
DESTINATION
MANAGEMENT
COMPANY OF THE YEAR
Carrer Mallorca, 260-262 5° 3°
Barcelona, 08008 Spain • Tel +34
93 270 2049 • lifestyledmc.com
If you are a corporate company
looking for a firm to organise
and manage your events, then
your search has come to an
end.
With hundreds of satisfied
clients, Lifestyle DMC has
established itself well as a
Destination Management
Company. Whether you are
looking for some team building
activities at exotic destinations in
Spain or even for corporate
meetings, they can do it all.
With more than 400 unique
activities throughout the country
like Tai Chi Class and
Blindfolded Cooking, you can
be guaranteed that your team
will have the best time together.
Not only do they organise
large-scale functions and
meetings but they also pay
equal amount of attention to
detail for small-scale meetings
as well. With large multinational
companies trusting them with
their corporate events, you can
be assured that your event is in
safe hands.
HOTEL
Spain
HOTEL ARTS BARCELONA
HOTEL OF THE YEAR
Marina 19-21, Barcelona, 08005 Spain •
Tel +34932211000 • ritzcarlton.com/en/
hotels/spain/barcelona
Rising above the rest of Barcelona, Hotel
Arts located on the waterfront, provides
a luxurious stay with spellbinding
views of the sea and city. With some
amazing facilities like terrace gardens,
outdoor swimming pool and spa, they
ensure that the guests here get a unique
experience. If that was not enough, you
can keep up with your gym schedule
at the fitness center or get pampered
in the hairdressing salon and luxury
fashion boutiques. The sophisticated
rooms and suites have elegantly done
décor and plush furnishings.To top it all
off, the hotel boasts of some amazing
duplex penthouses that offer the
pinnacle of luxury travel experiences.
The penthouses come with a butler
and shopping concierge to provide
assistance along with luxury private
transfer to shopping places.
The hotel also has six restaurants and
bars, which serve everything from
light, informal breakfasts and lunches
to exceptional Catalan cuisine. It also
offers spaces for private events and
corporate meetings.
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135

A Maltese Summer
Malta, situated in the very centre of the Mediterranean, is a country full of history
and culture and a wonderful destination due to pleasant weather all year round. The
beaches are one of the most important draws for tourism although once visited it
becomes apparent that there is much more to Malta that meets the eye, of course, the
beaches are incredible with warm sea temperatures up to 27 degrees. Bear in mind that
summer temperatures are usually very high, reaching 40°C with a high humidity. During
the hotter months Malta is not recommended for those who are highly susceptible to the
heat.
Beaches in the Mellieha Bay area
Ghadira Bay is a classic family beach, 800-metre long beach with golden sand that
slopes smoothly into the clear blue water making it perfect for younger children
to enjoy as the water temperatures stay warm all day long. Facilities on offer
are bars, toilets, showers, sunbeds with umbrellas and a range of watersport
equipment including the popular banana boat. A downside is the busy road that
runs alongside
There are beaches to suit all
requirements, be it lively parties or
convenient family affairs close to the
hotel or out of the way quiet, hidden
shores nestled in coves amongst the
cliffs. Great beaches can also be found
at nearby Gozo and Comino. The
choices are plentiful but bear in mind
that nudism and topless bathing are
prohibited in Malta although away
from the more busy tourist beaches
sun worshipers do manage to locate
an area, undisturbed for discreet
sunbathing with less clothing although
it is a good idea to check beforehand
what the locals approve of to prevent
any disrespect.
The main beaches, are to be found
on the north side of the island, from
Sliema to Mellieha Bay. It is the more
touristic area where most of the hotels
are found. The spacious beaches here
benefit from services such as toilets and
showers and are lined with restaurants,
bars and plenty of opportunities to hire
water sport equipment including jet skis,
paddle boats, canoes or excursions
to other parts of the Island including
Comino, Gozo and the Blue Grotto.
Golden Bay, although
overlooked by the modern
and imposing Radisson
Resort Complex, it is a nice
sandy beach with all the
extras required to spend a
day on the sand including
beach cafes, sunbeds
and umbrellas, lifeguards
and a great beach for
swimming, beach games
and sandcastle building. It
can be very crowded during
peak summer season.
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Alongside Golden Bay is Ghajn Tuffieha,
a very pretty but narrow beach that
requires a bit of effort to get to so
mostly remains the quiet choice. The
bay is maintained and protected
by Malta´s Gaia Foundation, an
Environmental NGO making it a
favourite beach to get away from it
all and swim in the beautiful ocean.
A kiosk rents out sunbeds and
umbrellas and some equipment for
watersports, but there is an undertow
which can be quite strong if the seas
are rough, making swimming and
watersports perilous.
St George´s Beach is situated in the party
capital of Malta, Paceville. One end
is reserved by the Intercontinental
Hotel, but the remaining is public
and benefits from being very clean,
in fact, it was one of the first beaches
in Malta to receive the prestigious
Blue Flag, an achievement it has
maintained for some years. The
beach is in proximity to St Julian´s
resort and the ancient capital city
of Valletta and, for this reason, gets
jam-packed in high season. But it
is the ideal beach if you like to be
close to the vibrant and busy bars,
restaurants, shopping centre and
bowling alley.
Paradise Bay looks out across the sea to the islands of Gozo and Comino. A relatively
unspoilt beach on the northern Marfa Peninsular close to where the Gozo Ferry
departs from Ċirkewwa harbour. With its golden sand, cute cafe bar and invitingly
clear blue water Paradise Bay is a very popular destination in the summer.
A tranquil and slightly more secluded beach is Peter’s Pool. It is worth effort to
find it, having to traipse across farmland and negotiate some vegetation. The
beach is more rock than sand and rarely gets cramped for space even at peak
season. Flat rocks make ideal sunbathing stations and views out across the pure
blue ocean make this an ideal way to spend an afternoon sunbathing. There are
no services on the beach so you would need to bring your own supplies and if the
weather is slightly inclement then swimming can prove to be dangerous although
the adrenalin habit of cliff jumping is very popular here.
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TOUR
Malta
GAULOS
DIVE COVE
DIVING COMPANY
OF THE YEAR
Experience the island on
a much more intimate level.
Gaulos Dive Cove, Marziena street,
Munxar Gozo-Malta, MXR0001 • Tel
+00356 79093169 • gaulosdivecove.
com
Located in Gozo, Gaulos Dive
Center has more than 15 years of
experience in diving in the islands
around. You can expect a very
friendly environment when heading
for a dive with their fun crew, which
takes you to see all the beauty that
the island hides underwater. You
can start off your diving career
here as a beginner or head over
for some dives as a pro. From
the salt pans of Xwejni Bay and
the blue hole, you can explore all
underwater beauties of the region.
You can choose to undergo PADI
Certified Diving Training to even
become a dive-master or a rescue
diver yourself! As an additional
step towards hospitality, they even
offer door to door pick up and drop
off services to the shop.
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TOUR
Malta
ROLLING GEEKS
INNOVATIVE ECO TOUR COMPANY
OF THE YEAR
Vault II, Captain of the Galleys Birgu
Waterfront, Malta • Tel +356 2180 5339 •
rolling-geeks.com
Behind the seemingly impenetrable thick
walls, flanking Malta’s Grand Harbour,
lies a hidden gem known as the Three
Cities (Vittoriosa, Cospicua and Senglea),
which is surprisingly off the tourist radar.
Predominantly a maritime hub, rich in
history, this area is reviving itself and the
Rolling Geeks are paving the way with
their modern take on touring.
Explore this gorgeous open air museum
full of architectural riches and breathtaking
views, while cruising around in your eco
friendly, smart technology vehicle.
The cars are unbelievably fun, safe and
easy to drive. Following a GPS guided
route at an easy pace while listening to
the commentary onboard in the language
of your choice gives you the freedom to
sightsee at your own pace. The online
tracking and onboard communication
systems enable the Rolling Geeks’ vigilant
staff to provide assistance throughout the
tour giving you peace of mind. The roads
on the prescribed route are very quiet and
it is very easy to park up and step out
whenever you wish to.
The selfie feature in the cars adds to the
fun, the rest is up to you to capture.
Overall this is a great value for money
experience, suitable for all ages.
Visit the website at www.rolling-geeks.com
for more information.
HOTEL
Italy
WEIHRERHOF
BOUTIQUE HOTEL & SPA
OF THE YEAR
Costalovara 22 39054 Soprabolzano,
Renon • Tel +39 0471345102 •
weihrerhof.com
Tucked away in the mountains of Italy
by the lakeside, Hotel Weihrerhof is
the perfect holiday destination in
which to rediscover yourself.
This relaxing hotel has delicately
designed rooms that echo the
surroundings and give you an allround
peaceful experience. With
some special cuisines prepared from
ingredients selected by the chef and
herbs grown in the hotel itself, those
that choose this exquisite hotel are
assured of a gastronomic experience
that will exceed expectation. In order
to fully cater for its guests needs and
provide the most relaxing experience
possible, the hotel offers such
thoughtful touches as a late-riser
breakfast and complete rejuvenation
in the onsite SeaSpa, complete with
sauna and therapeutic massage
menu. Boating facilities are available
on the lake; enjoy a gentle sail, swim
or simply sunbathe on the lake shore
with a favourite book and soak up the
calming and exclusive atmosphere.
Those who prefer more active pursuits
won’t feel left out either, with a
mountain bike hire service (complete
with helmets ad rucksacks) available
for a mountain adventure.
Image by: Remi Yuan
8142
1439

Italy
From the sheer peaks of the Dolomites in the north to the arid Sicilian coast in the south
– Italy is a country that needs no introduction, and yet never ceases to amaze the ones
who actually live in it.
In a present heavily influenced by a fruitful past, Italy exhibits timeless and intriguing
sophistication: the ancient collection of Renaissance art in Florence contrast with the
vibrancy of Milan’s modernity in a similar way that the peaceful gardens of the Vatican
converge with the cypress-tree-dotted valleys of Tuscany.
The country’s natural beauty
complements the warmth of
the people which – together
with centuries of history
and long-lived traditions –
introduce a unique character
to the air. Italy is a place of
never-ending transitions; the
hub of great civilizations
and ingenious people; a
nation intrinsically united by
its raison d’être, rather than
systematic structures.
There is all sort of options for all kinds of travelers, both in winter and summer, for
short or long stays. Italy features a series of subcultures that shape different traditions
and heterogeneous landscapes that promote varied sensations. If treading through
the narrow, bridge-laden alleys of Venice doesn’t sound appealing, perhaps an
ambitious drive along the winding roads of the Almafi coast towards a beach
encircled by fiords wild. And then there is the food...
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Adventure in Northern Italy
As the birthplace of important artistic movements – like the Baroque and Renaissance
– and icons such as Michelangelo, Dante, and Leonardo da Vinci, Italy is one of
the countries that has contributed the most to European traditional arts, science, and
technology.
As one of Europe’s wealthiest regions, the Italian North exhales an entrepreneurial
spirit – most probably inherited from the merchant-controlled communes that spread
around the area after a long period of barbarian-rule – making trade a major means
of subsistence among mountain-dwellers. Its varied landscape introduces a mixture
of cold, dry air descendant from the mountains and a warm, moist breeze coming
from the Mediterranean, that when combined with the richness of the river Po basin
creates an incredibly fertile land. The northern region of Italy is often subdivided
into northwest and northeast. The northwestern side includes the districts of Valle
D’Aosta, Piemonte, Lombardia, and Ligúria. Places like Bérgamo, Bréscia, Milan,
Pavia, and the lakes of Como, Iseo, Garda, and Orta are some of the cities
in Lombardia. The Valle D’Aosta district (with Aosta as the capital), is located
between the Swiss and French Alps, while Turin is the capital of the Piemonte zone.
In Linguria – a narrow stretch of land bordered by mountains and sea – the cities
and towns of San Remo, Genova, Portofino, Cinque Terre, and Porto Venere are
some of the ones that comprise the region.
Besides its cultural heritage, the country is highly captivating for its natural
landscapes, gastronomy, wines, and historic monuments. Palaces, Medieval cities,
cathedrals and archaeological sites are surrounded by awe-inspiring scenery –
like the cliffs of the Amalfitan Coast; paradisiacal islands such as Capri; the vast
sunflower fields of Tuscany; eye-popping beaches of Sicily, and enamoring regions
where to enjoy a tranquil boat ride in Sardinia. Multifaceted, the country also hosts
ideal locations for the practice of outdoor activities; unequal tastes like the truffles
of Piemonte; charming atmospheres in Portofino, Cinque Terre and Liguria; as well
as romantic regions like Venice; cosmopolitan cities such as Milan, and one of the
world’s most important religious destinations: Rome.
Enveloped by the Alps to the north and west, and the more modest Apennines to
the south, it seems only natural that the Italian nord features some worldwide-known
mountains: the Matterhorn (Cervino) and the Gran Paradiso in the western Alps;
Stelvio and Dolomites on the eastern section of the range. For adventure seekers, a
mountainous region means skiing, snowboarding, paragliding, mountain biking,
as well as hiking and trekking. Fortunately, all of the above can be found in
northern Italy, among other adrenaline-filled traits. But despite having a versatile
list of attributes, the region is still most famous in the outdoorsy community for its
wide number of hikes and treks, strengthened by strategically placed refuges and
chalets, and everlasting historical vestiges.
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Beginning a journey from West to East, the first main region in which to explore
the hiking potential is the Aosta Valley. Embedded among the French and Swiss
Alps, the valley commences near Turin – the closest city – in the zone of Pont-
Saint-Martin. Like any alpine valley, the Aosta is a mixture of astonishing views,
small settlements, and a wild yet accessible natural environment, making it one
of the top choices of many hikers. To the north, it is separated from Switzerland
by monolithic mountains, among which is the impressive Monte Cervino, referred
by the Helvetic as Matterhorn; to the south, lies the Gran Paradiso National Park,
which does justice to its name of “great heaven.” In the border with France, the
frozen immensity of Mont Blanc rises towards the sky, surrounding the valley with
its grandeur.
Within the Aosta Valley, Gran Paradiso is an idyllic option for both short and long
treks. As the name suggests, here lies the wild heart of the Alps, an area of great
harmony and natural beauty, habitat of marmots, foxes, and mountain goats. The
valleys that spread toward the north stay out of the protected zone, but share
the same untamed beauty and hold hidden viewpoints over some of Europe’s
most impressive mountains. Valtournenche, for example, leads the way to a steep
crevice until Breuil-Cervinia, at the foot of 4.478m Mount Cervino (Matterhorn). Yet
the best part is safe in the Gran Paradiso: arriving from the south, via Piemonte, the
Ceresole Reale Valley presents some unforgettable views of the mountains, not only
concerning the landscape but also the human environ. From Noasca, where the
park head office is located, it’s only a few kilometres until the trek that leads to the
Valle del’Orco, through old villages now taken over by forest and wildlife. Moving
towards the East, Lake Como is a mandatory stop for those who enjoy the peace
and quiet often correlated with lakeside settlements.
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TOUR
Usually more inviting from April to July and from September to November, this
Malta
enchanting region of mountainous slopes, charming villages and deep blue waters
features some magnificent scenic overlooks in addition to well-preserved historical
towns. One of the hiking highlights is the valley of Valtellina, located north-east of
the lake, in what’s known as “Little Yosemite” of Italy. This is also a great opportunity
ROLLING GEEKS
for wine-lovers to try the Nebbiolo varietal, which has for centuries been used to
INNOVATIVE make a dry vino ECO unique TOUR to the COMPANY region.
OF THE YEAR
Vault II, Captain of the Galleys Birgu
Waterfront, Malta • Tel +356 2180 5339 •
rolling-geeks.com
Behind the seemingly impenetrable thick
walls, flanking Malta’s Grand Harbour,
lies a hidden gem known as the Three
Cities (Vittoriosa, Cospicua and Senglea),
which is surprisingly off the tourist radar.
Predominantly a maritime hub, rich in
history, this area is reviving itself and the
Rolling Geeks are paving the way with
their modern take on touring.
Explore Almost this at the gorgeous Austrian-Slovenian open air museum border, north-east of Trento, lies the Dolomite
full mountains of architectural – a cluster riches of and sheer breathtaking rock formations, split into nine zones by rivers
views, and valleys while cruising that frame around the overall in your scenery eco of northern Italy. Declared as a World
friendly, Heritage smart Site by technology UNESCO, vehicle. the Dolomites offer a series of outdoor activities, always
The with cars mighty are landscapes unbelievably in the fun, background. safe and Among picturesque, stone-built villages
easy and to green drive. valleys, Following there is a a GPS mixture guided of local culture and architecture that becomes
route evident at an through easy the pace medieval while listening churches to that dot the area. As an alternative means
the to commentary discover the secrets onboard of in this the area, language it’s possible to watch culinary demonstrations,
of
visit
your
traditional
choice gives
farms,
you
taste
the
the
freedom
region’s wine,
to
and stay at elegant hotels with quality
sightsee at your own pace. The online
restaurants where to unveil some of the mysteries of the homegrown cuisine. The
tracking and onboard communication
systems
region
enable
is also a
the
hub
Rolling
of outdoor
Geeks’
activities,
vigilant
both light and intense, with all the safety
staff needed to provide for travellers assistance to enjoy throughout the local the nature and discover the true spirit of the
tour mountains giving you – a peace mixture of of mind. adventure, The roads high-end gastronomy, and robust wines. In
on one the of prescribed the region’s route “wildest” are very zone, quiet the and Dolomiti di Brenta, the town of Molveno
it is is the very starting easy point to park to a up number and step of treks out and ferratas towards refuges deep into
whenever the heart you of wish the mountains. to. Other key features not to be missed are the Lago
The Nero, selfie in feature the Adamello in the zone, cars adds which to overlooks the the Brenta range; the Groste pass,
fun, Dolomite’s the rest is highest up to “walkable” you to capture. section; and Madonna di Campiglio, a well-known
Overall winter destination this is a great that turns value into for an money intersection of trails during summertime. For
experience, a while, the suitable Dolomite for seemed all ages. untouchable but today it’s possible to find a broad
Visit infrastructure the website of at refuges, www.rolling-geeks.com
cable cars, maps and guides that turn this once mysterious
for and more hostile information. environment into something slightly more human-friendly.
HOTEL
Italy
WEIHRERHOF
BOUTIQUE HOTEL & SPA
OF THE YEAR
Costalovara 22 39054 Soprabolzano,
Renon • Tel +39 0471345102 •
weihrerhof.com
Tucked away in the mountains of Italy
by the lakeside, Hotel Weihrerhof is
the perfect holiday destination in
which to rediscover yourself.
This relaxing hotel has delicately
designed rooms that echo the
surroundings and give you an allround
peaceful experience. With
some special cuisines prepared from
ingredients selected by the chef and
herbs grown in the hotel itself, those
that choose this exquisite hotel are
assured of a gastronomic experience
that will exceed expectation. In order
to fully cater for its guests needs and
provide the most relaxing experience
possible, the hotel offers such
thoughtful touches as a late-riser
breakfast and complete rejuvenation
in the onsite SeaSpa, complete with
sauna and therapeutic massage
menu. Boating facilities are available
on the lake; enjoy a gentle sail, swim
or simply sunbathe on the lake shore
with a favourite book and soak up the
calming and exclusive atmosphere.
Those who prefer more active pursuits
won’t feel left out either, with a
mountain bike hire service (complete
with helmets ad rucksacks) available
for a mountain adventure.
8150
1519

HOTEL
Italy
A&L WELLNESSRESORT
WELLNESS HOTEL OF THE YEAR
I — 39030 Ahrntal/Valle Aurina – South Tyrol — Italy •
Tel +39 0474 651010; +39 0474 652190 • wellnessresort.it
Located in South Tyrol, this 4-star superior wellness hotel takes its
inspiration from the power of mountains.
Tucked away in the mountains, this is the ultimate place to unwind
with luxurious rooms that impart an alpine feel. Whether your
choice is a romantic suite or one for the family, all categories of
rooms are available here with premium all-inclusive services. You
can enjoy the culinary delights that are prepared in the restaurants
here by award-winning gourmet chefs.
The entire hotel is dedicated to wellness, from top to bottom. Some
of the highlighting features that make this wellness haven stand
out are:
• Seven swimming pools and seven saunas.
• Sky Lounge with panoramic sauna and sky pool with scenic
views
• Over 100 spa and beauty treatments for your mind and body
• A 140m2 gym and daily workouts with a professional trainer
• New Spa Lodge with an area of 3000m2 across 3 floors including
new indoor and outdoor pools
• New rooms and suites including romantic and family suites
with individually furnished rooms
• Mini Club for kids with childcare, play facilities and Junior
Club with Wii consoles, T-wall and climbing wall
• Ski resort directly opposite the hotel with mountain adventures
in the Rieserferner-Ahrn Nature Park in summer and winter
• Premium all-inclusive late breakfasts, healthy choice buffets and
gourmet dinner with choice menus. Assortment of non-alcoholic
beverages included too!
You can also experience the magic of silence in the Silent Room,
which has water beds for relaxation. A special Relax Room is also
available for you and your loved one to curl up and unwind.
Your luxurious wellnesshotel
in South Tyrol.
Your 4-star-superior wellness
hotel in South Tyrol.
PURE. ALPINE. LIFESTYLE.
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TOUR
Italy
RIGHT PATH ADVENTURES
WALKING TOUR COMPANY OF THE YEAR
2780 So. Jones Blvd. #200-3838 Las Vegas, NV, 89146 • Tel +435
729-9107 • rightpathadventures.com
Right Path Adventures offers guided walking and hiking tours
to see and experience the best of the spectacular Dolomites
— considered the world’s most beautiful mountains.
World-renowned travel guide Gary Scott is the founder
and owner of Right Path and has been in the adventure
travel business for over 35 years. Previously a professional
mountain guide on over 40 treks and expeditions in the
Himalaya, over 100 walking tours in the Dolomites, and
over 250 total international adventure trips with a perfect
safety record — Gary brings a high level of professionalism,
safety and care to his guests. A variety of hiking options
and terrains assure that every guest hikes according to their
ability and experience, combined with luxurious four-star
accommodation that provide comfort and pampering at the
end of the day. Gary and other hand-picked and highlyexperienced
mountain guides lead the tours of small groups
of no more than eight to ensure that highest quality of services
is offered. Starting from either Venice or Bolzano, guests are
transported in private and comfortable nine-seater vehicles.
Guests are also offered the opportunity of a night’s stay in a
traditional, family run three-star mountain lodge with their own
room and attached bath to really get the feel for mountain
living. The pace of walking is kept such that each guest is able
to keep up and the mountain lodges (refugio’s) located short
distances apart, are the perfect places to have a snack, lunch,
or sip a glass of wine or beer and strudel while taking in the
beautiful views. The excellent cuisine is one of the highlights of
the trip and with thousands of happy and satisfied customers
over the years, you can be sure that your trip to the Dolomites
is in expert hands when traveling with Gary and Right Path
Adventures.
4154
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Road Trip : Santa Maria to Rapallo
One of the (many) delights of Italy is its roads, bordered by medieval cities, sunflower
fields, rich vineyards, mountains, and hills as far as the eye can see. That being said, it
is only natural that many travelers opt for exploring the country by car. Driving in Italy is
not particularly difficult: the roads are divided into autostradas (motorways) and estrada
extraurbana principale (main extra-urban road), with an infinity of small, secondary
roads branching off them. Since they tend to follow the shortest route available, most
GPS will choose these narrow and bumpy rural routes over the main motorways, which
are better maintained. Nowadays, most European rental agencies are affiliated with
the likes of Hertz and Avis, so finding an Italian agency doesn’t necessarily mean
getting cheaper rates. It’s definitely worth booking a car before arrival though, using an
aggregator or booking sites to research for the best price available and keeping in mind
to stick with flat rates (which will invariably include the “Collision Damage Weaver”
and “Theft Protection”) and try to outsource insurance from a third company in order
to find competitive rates. There are many options: from the budget prices of Thrifty and
Europcar to Sixt’s Porsche and Audi.
Without stops, a road trip from Santa Maria to Rapallo takes around 8 hours, but
if time is at disposal, the option of meandering through the many cities along the
way should be considered. It is roughly 800 kilometres of land to cover, which
could be split into two different routes: a toll-less, coastal option through the E80
or a more straightforward, inland route via the A1. After driving through Pompeii
– the once-thriving Roman city that was buried in ash after the eruption of Mount
Vesuvius – and catching a glimpse of Naples – Italy’s less-traveled capital of the
south, with its Baroque masterpieces and negative preconceptions – the first main
stop would be Rome, where the routes diverge.
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Rome is a city that needs no introduction.
Remnants of the ancient Roman era
are concentrated to the southeast of
Capitoline Hill, while a predominantly
Art Nouveau architecture extends
through Quartiere Coppede; palmshaded
parks at Villa Torlonia contrast
with the modern-day masterpieces of
Marancia’s street art scene. Rome is a
trip in itself, so for those who wish to
explore a bit more of Italy, it would
be wise not to give in to the city’s
spell. Choosing lush-green plains over
white-sand beaches, the road keeps
to starboard of Bracciano-Martignano
National Park.
Around two hours north of Rome, Civita
di Bagnoregio is a great opportunity
to get out of the motorway for a while
and do a bit of sightseeing. Known
as “la citta che muore” (the dying
city), this small village sits on the top
of a hill, which has been slowly but
surely destructed by erosion. Civita di
Bagnoregio has extremely picturesque
lanes that, together with its dramatic
landscape, produce a journey back in
time sensation among its visitors. Not far
away lies the village of Montepulciano –
another Medieval hilltop town. From its
high grounds, it is possible to appreciate
panoramic views of Val’Dorcia and
get lost in narrow alleyways that hold
renaissance palaces, old churches, and
charming squares. This town was also a
setting for The Twilight Saga film, New
Moon.
Just an hour north of Montepulciano is the ravishing and
mysterious Siena. During the Middle Ages, the city fought
with Florence over the commercial power over the region.
Nowadays, it is famous for hosting the Palio di Siena, one
of the world’s oldest horse races, which takes place at the
handheld-fan-shaped Piazza del Campo – the physical
and spiritual heart of the city – between July and August.
Another highlight of Siena is the Palazzo Pubblico – with its
majestic, 14 th -century belfry – and the Piazza del Duomo,
whose cathedral was projected to be larger than the
Florentine duomo (until the outburst of the 1348 plague,
when funds were limited). The city is an open-air museum,
with a collection of majestic Gothic-inspired constructions;
as well as a nice option for an overnight stop as it has
great infrastructure for tourists and a variety of hotels. Before
heading to Florence, it is worth visiting San Gimignano,
only an hour away from Siena. Surrounded by a tall wall,
the city features 15 medieval towers, once symbols of
wealth and status.
Florence is the last main stop before reaching Rapallo. As the
capital of the Tuscany region, the city breaths culture, flavours
and aromas, and boasts a wide ensemble of Renaissance
art and architecture. By walking through its narrow streets,
the heritage of centuries of history becomes ever so evident
through the rare concern with beauty. Impressive monuments
have a jaw-dropping effect on any passerby: the expansive
Duomo, with its mix of green, white and pink marbles,
is on the top of the list. In Florence’s famous museums,
remarkable works of art – such as Michelangelo’s David –
are inspiring, to say the least. The Ponte Vecchio, one of the
city’s postcards, gives a romantic atmosphere to Florence,
while its tiny windows exhale a somewhat melancholic air
over the Arno River. Once indulged by the historical beauty
of some of inland Tuscany’s city, the route redirects towards
the coastal, going through Pisa (or Lucca, depending on
which road was chosen), and continues through to Rapallo
– where the eyes and legs are finally rejoined with the warm
Mediterranean air.
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HOTEL
Italy
EXCELSIOR PALACE
CLASSIC HOTEL OF THE YEAR
Via San Michele di Pagana 8,16035 Rapallo, Italy •
Tel +39 0185 230 666 • excelsiorpalace.it
Facing the bay of Rapallo on the Portofino coast,
Excelsior Palace Hotel offers 5 star luxuries with
exemplary service and takes you back to its elegance
of early 1900s.
The grand halls furnished with antique design
furniture welcome you into the hotel. With 119
carefully designed rooms and suites, ranging from
Classic to Presidential, you can choose your degree
of pampering when selecting a room here. You
can enjoy some delicious cuisines in Lord Byron
Restaurant (open all year round) and Eden Roc
Lounge and Restaurant (seasonal) while taking in the
views of the sea and Portofino.
You might as well lay back and enjoy some relaxing
massages in the treatment rooms of the spa or at
the Gazebo (only available in the summer) with
views of the infinite blue. The hotel also boasts of
an indoor heated pool and a fully equipped gym.
You can also take a dive into their outdoor infinity
pools during the summer months or laze around in
the open Jacuzzis. If boating is your thing, then you
can head out for boat excursions from the private
jetty at the hotel beach club.
This pet friendly hotel walks the extra mile to keep
your pooch happy right from the time you arrive.
With reserved areas in both the restaurants and the
beach club with some special treats cooked for your
pets.
Special care is taken to create dreamy scenes for
weddings hosted in the hotel on a terrace illuminated
with torches and candles with the scenes of Portofino
Coast. These weddings are sure to give you a feel
of the 1900s.
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HOTEL TOUR
Greece Italy
SIENA CORI RIGAS TOUR SUITES GUIDE
DESTINATION HISTORIC HOTEL SPECIALIST OF THE YEAR
OF THE YEAR
Stella Cori Rigas Soldani Suites • official Fira, 84700 tour guide Santorini, Siena
Greece Tuscany P.O.Box • mobile 151 • + Tel 393356810098
+30 22860 25251
• coririgasuites.com
email info@sienatourguide.it •
sienatourguide.it
A restored Captain’s House, Cori Rigas
Suites With Siena offers Tour 250 Guide, years of those history that and
visit stunning Tuscany views can over ‘enjoy the Caldera. the art of
Travel.’
Located in Fira, on the famed island of
Owned Santorini, and Cori operated Rigas Suites by consists Stella of
Soldani, 13 bioclimatic a long-time suites resident ideal for of couples the
region, & families. visitors will truly feel like
a
The
special
traditional
guest
sea
of
captain’s
Siena, whether
house has
been
you’re
restored
travelling
to
with
the highest
a group,
standards,
your
with
children
nods
or on
to
a
both
business
the traditional,
trip. Stella’s
such
as
regions
the romantic
of expertise
inner
are
courtyards,
the Chianti
and
the
region,
new exquisite
San Gimignano
hot tubs.
and the
Valdelsa, Montalcino, Pienza and
Each
the Valdorcia
guest room
and
has
Montepulciano
its own unique
personality
and the Valdichiana,
and style;
and
from
a
the
wide
Petite
Suite
range
which
of tours
features
are on
a
offer
cave
to
bedroom,
show
off
to the
these
Exclusive
area’s best
Suite,
– and
split
hidden
over two
– attractions.
and offering
Tour themes
unrivalled
include
space
history,
and comfort.
culture, food, trekking or
architecture, Each suite offers but either Stella’s a shared particular terrace
passion or private and balcony, expertise and is such providing amenities
specialist as made kids to order tours breakfasts, for younger daily
adventurers. housekeeping Children and porter can service, enjoy airconditioning,
hunts WiFi, while satellite their parents TVs, bath
treasure
can amenities indulge and a in mini wine fridge tastings, and kettle.
cooking With an emphasis classes on or providing truffle hunting outstanding
tours service, – with Cori Siena Rigas Tour Suites Guide, is there
ideal
is option a side for of those Tuscany who wish for everyone. to become better
acquainted with the history and beauty of
Santorini.
“As a destination
specialist I am
extremely proud
to represent my
home town, its
tradition, culture,
artists and stunning
landscapes” “A restored
Captainʼs House,
with 250 years
of history, with
stunning views”
HOTEL TOUR
Italy Portugal
TAKING PALAZZO U BELMONTE THERE
DESTINATION THE AWARD FOR SPECIALISTS EXCELLENCE IN
SERVICE OF THE YEAR
Rua Via Senatore de Campolide, Manente nº27 Comunale, – 4º 22 •
esq. Tel +39 Lisboa 09741070-026 960 211 • Portugal palazzobelmonte.
•
Tel com+ +351 917 837 597 • takinguthere.com
Located south of the Amalfi Coast in
Our the ancient destination Magna specialist Grecia lies is Palazzo
true Belmonte. to its name; they will take
you
This
‘there’
family
—
owned
to the
property
very place
is a palace
you
in itself
want
and
to visit.
served as a hunting lodge
Their for the off-the-beaten-track ruling family and tours their guests
open (Kings you of up Spain to the and most Italy). unique The rooms
and here popular are finished parts of with Portugal. a blend of
With modern small and private traditional groups interiors of with
two all essential to 12 members, amenities. tours With are a setting
always that faces engaging, the infinite in-depth blue and sea or lush
personable. gardens, you Taking can U definitely There have
tour a memorable guides are honeymoon characterised here. A
by freshwater their passion pool for right nature next to and the beach
local offers history, you some and unwinding strive to pass time along
on with valuable the poolside knowledge bar that while provides light
keeping lunches and their cocktails. tours fun A private and beach
exciting. here is all Art you and need architecture to have some
fans cozy can time admire with your the beautiful family. A lounge
churches bar overlooking of Lisbon the sea and is visit the perfect
the place famous for some Pena candlelight Palace drinks and
Sintra, appetizing while meals nature and lovers the international
will
staff get their makes fair sure share that in you dolphin have a great
watching date out there. tours They off the also coast organ – ize
of special Lisbon occasions or bird like watching weddings and
in corporate Sesimbra. meetings Taking with U a There great degree
can of service also offer and tours professionality. to the best
wineries across the region and
even organise a trip across the
Strait of Gibraltar to the exotic
cities of Morocco.
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TOUR
Italy
ITALIAN VISTA
DESTINATION MANAGEMENT
SPECIALIST OF THE YEAR
Via Balestrieri 5 50012 Bagno a Ripoli,
Florence Italy • Tel +39 366 544 6336 •
elena@italianvistatravel.com;
info@italianvistatravel.com •
italianvistatravel.com
Italian Vista Travel provides troublefree
tours, from the classical, most
well-known sites to the local hidden
gems.
They operate with just goal in mind–
to bring authentic Italy to life and
create unique, once-in-a-lifetime
experiences in Italy. Private guided
tours are available in Florence,
Venice, and of course Rome. Each
tour can be customised according
to your specific requests; whether
your interests lie in museums and
culture, food, and wine, or art and
architecture, have limited time or are
travelling with children, every guest
can enjoy a completely tailored trip.
Custom services include private
drivers and transfers, cruise shore
excursions (ideal for those very short
on time) restaurant bookings and
special requests, such as birthday
celebrations or off-the-beaten-path
tours.
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HOTEL
Italy
ROBINSON CLUB APULIA
THE AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN
BRANDING
Loc. Fontanelle, 73059 Ugento, LE, Italy •
Tel 0511/56780104 • robinson.com
The Robinson Club Apulia is a family-friendly resort,
that’s popular with locals, thanks to its laidback,
welcoming atmosphere. How could you expect
anything less in Italy? Exceptional sea-water and
air quality, thanks to the Neptune grass and pine
forest. Wide range of water sports offered, with
extra children’s equipment for sailing and surfing.
Childcare for children 1 month-17 years (1-24
months is an additional charge), as well as many
opportunities for family experiences, including
small or large family celebrations with an Italian
style.
Here is some of what you can expect during your
stay;
• In the very south of the Apulian boot heel, on a
beautiful, sandy beach.
• All-inclusive “made by ROBINSON”. “ Apulian
Kitchen” also available at lunchtime.
• Specialty restaurants (additional charge for
drinks), local wines, wine cellar in the evening
(additional charge), pizzeria, beach restaurant,
children’s restaurant with buffet and cookery
courses in the pine forest.
• Large WellFit® spa.
• Tennis: nine silica-sand courts.
• Enjoy an aperitif on the beach while watching
the sunset.
• Excursions and boat trips with swim stops in the
grottos of the Ionian Sea (additional charge).
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HOTEL
Italy
ROBINSON CLUB APULIA
THE AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN
BRANDING
Loc. Fontanelle, 73059 Ugento, LE, Italy •
Tel 0511/56780104 • robinson.com
ROBINSON – A market leader in resort vacation
in the premium segment. ROBINSON Club – has
been successful for over 45 years and our guest
satisfaction rates scored an impressive 95% last
year. Our portfolio is comprised of highly innovative
resorts located across Europe, Africa, Asia and the
Indian Ocean. Golfing, Sailing, SUP, Kite surfing,
Fencing, Boxing, Zumba, Thai Chi and Harley
Davidson tours are some of the activities offered
at our premises – sport lovers will be thrilled.
ROBINSON Club offers a second to none service.
As a standard you will find gourmet dining options
at each property, a daily entertainment program as
well as luxury spas and gyms. ROBINSON offers
its guests the opportunity to find the perfect mix for
all kinds of holiday experiences. More information
about ROBINSON can be found at http://www.
robinson.com/ or contact George Morris, Regional
Sales Manager UK & Ireland George.Morris@
robinson.com
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Sicily | Italy
POPULATION
5,048,553
HOW TO GET IN
• Fly in
• Ferry
• By Bus
GET AROUND
• By Bus
• Car
• Taxi
• Train
• By Plane
The largest island in the
Mediterranean Sea, full of
history, culture and former home
of legendary mathematician
Archimedes & Domenico Dolce
of Dolce & Gabbana.
ATTRACTIONS & SIGHTS
• Mount Etna
• Palazzo dei Normanni
• Ancient theatre of
Taormina
• Ear of Dionysius
THINGS TO DO
• Boat trop
• Trek to Mount Etna
• Scuba Diving
• Try Spaghetti ai Ricci
Find out more – http://
www.visitsicily.info/en/
tourist-information/
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HOTEL
Italy
PULLMAN TIMI AMA SARDEGNA
LUXURY HOTEL & SPA OF THE YEAR
viale dei Ginepri 3, Sardegna 09049 ,Villasimius, Italy •
Tel +39 070/79791 • accorhotels.com
Visiting the Villasimius village on the island of Sardegna in
Italy and looking for a luxurious getaway? Pullman Timi Ama
Sardegna is the answer to your needs! Located just in front of
the white sand beaches of the island, this hotel not only gives
you the chance to have a lavish stay but also puts you in the
midst of the best natural surroundings of the island. Thanks to
its location, you’ll have easy access to the bay, wineries and
archaeological sites of the town!
Choose from the numerous room and suite options according
to your taste and enjoy the finest views of the bay or the lush
hotel grounds. Large glass windows and balconies ensure
that the rooms are flooded with warm Mediterranean light all
day long. With Pullman, Welcomes to help you out each day
with travel tips and restaurant recommendations, you can lie
back at ease and enjoy your trip. You could keep up with your
business-related activities at the Pullman Connectivity Lounge
too. The presence of shops and salons in the hotel makes sure
that all your needs are covered under one roof.
The one service that stands out though is the Thalassa sea and
spa. With a wide range of relaxing treatments and therapies,
the masseuses here ensure that you can unwind and rejuvenate
with their special Thalassotherapy and Spa treatments. The spa
boasts of some unique features like solarium, aqua-aerobics
and hammam along with the more common ones like sauna
and spa bath. Moreover, you could get beauty treatments
done here. The dedicated fitness area here will help you keep
up with your fitness schedule.
For gastronomic indulgences, you can head over to the
3 restaurants and 4 bars of the hotel and enjoy delicious
Mediterranean and international cuisines along with your
favorite cocktails. The hotel also hosts private functions and
corporate meetings.
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Santorini vs Mykonos
If there is one thing Greece doesn’t lack is islands. The country’s landmass is made up
of thousands of islets which cover an extensive area of the Mediterranean, awarding it
with the 11th longest coastline in the world. Many names spring to mind when thinking
of the Greek Islands, but among them Santorini and Mykonos sound ever so familiar.
Mykonos (the island of the winds) is believed to have been named after the grandson
of the god Apollo in Hellenic mythology. The island is part of the Cyclades, a group
comprising around 220 islets, situated south-east of mainland Greece. Mykonos’
cosmopolitan atmosphere sets it off as a highly sought-after summer destination,
beloved by the ones seeking energetic days as well as those who simply wish to
unwind. It is easily accessible from both Athens and Thessaloniki by plane, with
direct international flights (particularly from London) being added to the schedule
during summer holidays. There are also daily ferries departing from the two main
ports in Athens, heading to Mykonos and the other Cyclades islands. Due to its
popularity, the island can get fairly crowded during high season, so it’s worth
planning in advance – or choosing to travel in spring or autumn. There is no
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shortage of things do to in Mykonos: from exploring the capital’s (Hóra) marble
streets and visiting some of its churches, museums, to treading along Matoyanni
Street – one of the city’s busiest spots –, or contemplating the colourful Alefkántra,
also known as “Little Venice”. Adventure enthusiasts will find an array of beaches
where to practice windsurfing, bays to go sailing, and nooks for diving. While
in Mykonos, it’s worth tasting the kopanistí, a soft cheese seasoned with pepper
designated the as island’s culinary trademark.
A roughly 2,5hr ferry ride from Mykonos, in the southernmost portion of the
Cyclades, lies the island of Santorini – the largest of a small archipelago with the
same name. This complex of islands is, in fact, an active volcano whose crater
rests underwater and which, after a series of eruptions, had its central part eroded,
thus creating a (still visible) crater (caldera). Unlike Mykonos, Santorini is more of
a romantic destination; its crystal clear waters and dramatic cliffs being the ideal
scenery for a wedding ceremony. For the ones who seek something other than
romance, there is the opportunity of exploring the island’s picturesque, cliff-top
villages with panoramic views of the Aegean; enjoying the deep blue waters of
its heterogeneous beaches; or indulging in traditional food and local, “volcanic”
wine. As a popular destination in the Greek Islands, Santorini gets very busy
during high-season, and its mostly “high-end” accommodation options make early
bookings a must if to lock in cheaper rates.
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HOTEL
Greece
KASTRO SUITES
BOUTIQUE HOTEL OF THE YEAR
Fira city, Santorini • Tel +30 22860 25730 •
www.kastrosuites.com
Located on the beautiful island of Santorini with its
whitewashed buildings and a view of the Aegean
Sea to die for, Kastro Suites welcomes you to enjoy
its splendid services to create an unforgettable
holiday for you. The cozy apartments here come
with every amenity needed to have a comfortable
stay along with sea views. Whether you’re visiting
as an individual or as a group, their suites can
accommodate groups of up to 7 people! The
whitewashed walls of the rooms along with the blue
shades of furnishings reflect the colors of Santorini
too and blend perfectly into the environment. Some
rooms are also carved into the rock side to keep
them naturally cool. The rooms also come with
balconies where you can sit back and relish your
breakfast with the view of the beautiful town or the
sea.
The hotel comes with a swimming pool overlooking
the beautiful city of Fira and the blue Aegean Sea.
If you need some munchies during your stay, the
snack bar will provide some great delights. The
feeling of eating out in the open with a scenic view
here is truly unparalleled. This is definitely the place
you can head over to with your loved one for a
candlelight dinner date. The hotel also arranges
excursions and vehicle rentals on demand for
you. If you’re looking to keep connected with your
business activities, the hotel also has laptops, fax,
photocopy and scanning services. Fancy reading
books? Book exchanges are held at the hotel as
well! The hotel also serves as a destination for
meetings and personal events. They also provide
shuttle services.
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HOTEL
Greece
HOTEL
Italy
Image by: Artiom Vallat
CORI RIGAS SUITES
HISTORIC HOTEL OF THE YEAR
Cori Rigas Suites Fira, 84700 Santorini,
Greece P.O.Box 151 • Tel +30 22860 25251
• coririgasuites.com
A restored Captain’s House, Cori Rigas
Suites offers 250 years of history and
stunning views over the Caldera.
Located in Fira, on the famed island of
Santorini, Cori Rigas Suites consists of
13 bioclimatic suites ideal for couples
& families.
The traditional sea captain’s house has
been restored to the highest standards,
with nods to both the traditional, such
as the romantic inner courtyards, and
the new exquisite hot tubs.
Each guest room has its own unique
personality and style; from the Petite
Suite which features a cave bedroom,
to the Exclusive Suite, split over two
and offering unrivalled space
and comfort.
Each suite offers either a shared terrace
or private balcony, and such amenities
as made to order breakfasts, daily
housekeeping and porter service, airconditioning,
WiFi, satellite TVs, bath
amenities and a mini fridge and kettle.
With an emphasis on providing outstanding
service, Cori Rigas Suites is the ideal
option for those who wish to become better
acquainted with the history and beauty of
Santorini.
“A restored
Captainʼs House,
with 250 years
of history, with
stunning views”
PALAZZO BELMONTE
THE AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN
SERVICE
Via Senatore Manente Comunale, 22 •
Tel +39 0974 960 211 • palazzobelmonte.
com
Located south of the Amalfi Coast in
the ancient Magna Grecia lies Palazzo
Belmonte.
This family owned property is a palace
in itself and served as a hunting lodge
for the ruling family and their guests
(Kings of Spain and Italy). The rooms
here are finished with a blend of
modern and traditional interiors with
all essential amenities. With a setting
that faces the infinite blue sea or lush
gardens, you can definitely have
a memorable honeymoon here. A
freshwater pool right next to the beach
offers you some unwinding time along
with the poolside bar that provides light
lunches and cocktails. A private beach
here is all you need to have some
cozy time with your family. A lounge
bar overlooking the sea is the perfect
place for some candlelight drinks and
appetizing meals and the international
staff makes sure that you have a great
date out there. They also organ – ize
special occasions like weddings and
corporate meetings with a great degree
of service and professionality.
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One Day in Tel Aviv
As Israel’s financial and technological hub, the city of Tel Aviv is the second-mostpopulous
urban area in the country, widely known for its Mediterranean-bathed beaches
and vibrant multicultural identity.
Last but not least is Tel
Aviv’s nightlife scene –
often a requisite among
party-aficionados
but nevertheless an
interesting experience for
anyone who would like
to have a comprehensive
glimpse of the city.
An inspiring way to start the day in Tel Aviv is by walking along the promenade
– towards the old port city of Jaffa – while welcoming the first rays of sunlight and
inhaling the fresh sea breeze. In Jaffa, the narrow stone streets lead to locallyowned
cafes notable for their classic Israeli breakfast: omelette with fresh herbs,
home-made jam, fresh bread, and ‘labne’ – a thick, yogurt-based cheese.
During the day, there is
the option of enjoying
one of the many sections
on Tel Aviv beach; visiting
the Tel Aviv Museum
of Art (Israel’s largest
museum) or the Diaspora
Museum (a chronicle of
Jewish heritage around
the world) for a culture
soak up; exploring the
city’s streets, squares, and
gardens – the Hayarkon
Park and botanical
garden being a highlight;
or visiting the White City,
a UNESCO Heritage Site
featuring more than four
thousand (mostly white)
buildings in the Bauhaus
style of architecture.
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HOTEL
Israel
HOTEL ROTHSCHILD 22
TEL-AVIV
STYLISH HOTEL OF THE YEAR
Rothschild Boulevard 22, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel •
Tel +972 3 6906565 • fattal.co.il/hotel-22-rothschild-tel-aviv
Located in the heart of Tel Aviv, Hotel
Rothschild 22 is a new and luxurious
boutique hotel with meticulously designed
interiors like that of a modern style with
pastoral design influences.
The hotel’s 156 rooms are designed to
perfection, providing the perfect setting to
relax or work. Exclusive beauty products by
L’Occitane are also available to provide an
additional touch of luxury. The Gallery 22
restaurant is the perfect place to kick-start
your day with a scrumptious meal, while
the Traklin Business Lounge, overlooking Tel
Aviv, makes for a great place to carry out
meetings. Pay-per-access meeting rooms
are also available, which are the perfect,
flexible option for local businesses or those
short on time. For those who need to catch
up on emails or important calls, there is
also the option to rent office space. A
range of leisure facilities are also available;
enjoy a refreshing workout session in the
fully equipped gym, take advantage of the
bicycle rental service or see the city through
the eyes of a local on a professionally-led
tour. Hotel Rothschild 22 offers a coveted
combination of state-of-the-art comfort, firstclass
facilities and an unrivalled location
among beautiful views and fascinating
culture.
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185 11

TOUR
Israel
Image by: Aviv Ben Or
MANTIS TOURS
THE AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE
IN SERVICE
Eilat, Israel • Tel +972-53-2298922 •
mantis-tours.com
Taking a tour to Israel, Jordan or
Egypt?
Mantis Tours is the place to head
to for exciting tours and excursions
in each of these countries.
Whether you wish to explore the
great Pyramids of Egypt, Petra in
Jordan, float on the waters of Dead
Sea or visit the holy city of
Jerusalem, their tour packages will
give you a friendly environment
with personal attention to make
your trip fulfilling. You could also
take a tour from one country to the
other and could hike to the
canyons of Jordan or even dive
into the deep blue in Aqaba. You
even needn’t worry about your
visas to the countries as they take
care of that as well. You could also
get splendid visuals of undersea
life by scuba diving to Coral Reef
of Eilat. They ensure a comfortable
experience with pick-ups and
drop-offs to and from the hotels.
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EASTERN
EUROPE
Image by: A L
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189

Albania
POPULATION
3,600,523
HOW TO GET IN
• Fly in
• Ferry
• Road
A former secretive communist state,
Albania offer so much for a traveller
looking to get away from the
mainstream holiday.
GET AROUND
• By Bus
• Car
• Taxi
• Train
ATTRACTIONS & SIGHTS
• Butrint
• Dajti Mountain
• Berat
• Et’hem Bey Mosque
THINGS TO DO
• Visit the beach
• Trekking in the Albanian
Alps
• Try the Byrek & Raki
Find out more – http://
albania.al/
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HOTEL
Albania
ADRIATIK HOTEL
LUXURY HOTEL OF THE YEAR
Hotel Adriatik, Rr. Pavaresia, Lagjja 13,
Plazh, Durres, Albania 2000 • Tel +355 52
260 850 • www.adriatikhotel.com
Adriatik Hotel has been operational
since 1957 and served as the first
luxury hotel on the Albanian Coast.
It reopened in 2003 after full
reconstruction and update. With
70 rooms and suites equipped with
every possible amenity to ensure
a luxurious stay, you can lie back
and enjoy the scenic views of the
infinite blue from the comfort of
your room. You can be assured of
impeccable services with a friendly
and professional staff, which leaves
no stone unturned. Apollonia and
Illyria Restaurants shall bring out the
foodie in you with some fine Italian,
traditional and international cuisines
at offer. You could also take a dip
in one of the largest outdoor pools
on the Albanian coast here. Did we
mention that there’s a private beach
as well? Kids will also enjoy their
stay with two playgrounds, pool and
a tennis court specially dedicated to
them. The hotel also has a fitness
center and spa.
The hotel is open all year round
and organizes high quality
international conferences, events,
weddings. It boasts of 4 conference
and ballrooms: Albania-400 pax,
Skanderbeg-70 pax, Marubi-40
pax. and Ali Pasha-40 pax.
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43 193

Rise of Croatia
There is no doubt that Croatia is an important country in terms of tourism. Many young
visitors, however, will fail to realise that this was a place of horrific conflict and historically
one of the most lamentable battles to have ever taken place in the world. The war of
Yugoslavia. In the course of the conflict, the Dalmatian cities at the foot of the Adriatic
were targeted by bombings that caused immense damage to their infrastructure. Some
areas were totally destroyed such as Vukovar. In fact, the damage caused to Vukovar
during the conflict has been signalled as the worst in Europe since the Second World
War.
Once the conflict was finally over
the Republic of Croatia began to
painstakingly pick up the pieces of
a country completely devastated
by war. Large numbers of deaths,
casualties and migrations left whole
regions in dire need of supplies,
and instability throughout the region
continued due to political and military
instabilities especially in the nearby
regions of Bosnia-Herzegovina and
Kosovo.
Reconstruction was slow and
depended on support from the rest
of Europe and the United States. In
1991 the Republic of Croatia was
The story of Vukovar´s Water Tower provides a clear example of the pointless
destruction caused by civil war. The Tower was constructed in the 1960s and here
was a place to dine and look out upon the charming vistas of this reasonably
prosperous city. During the conflict, the city was under siege for 87 days, and
the popular landmark was used for artillery practice whilst the inhabitants of the
city were trapped. It is estimated that over 600 civilians were killed during the
siege. The fact that the Tower did not fall during the raid is the reason the city has
maintained it in its current damaged state without any repairs, as a symbol and
monument to Croatian´s strength and determination. Vukover is situated on the
River Danube and is a draw for romantic getaways. But you cannot fail to notice
the sad pockmarked structure of the Water Tower, a sad reminder of the Croatian
War.
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given recognition along with Slovenia by the
European Union and that same year became a
member of the United Nations Organisation and
the International Monetary Fund. Agreements
with the World Bank were signed and over the
following years, repairs and restorations have
been completed in record time with the help of
Unesco. The strength and determination of the
country have revealed its hidden charms once
again of coastal cities together with stunning
national parks attracting a multitude of visitors
to Croatia
Today visitors can enjoy post-conflict Croatia
and appreciate the remarkable economic
transformation. Today known as the country of
a thousand islands with its unique geography,
full of charming reefs and enclaves dotted along
the Adriatic coastline. This is an ideal territory to
explore and discover the magic it has to offer.
Dubrovnik, nicknamed the pearl of the Adriatic
due to its distinctive 16th century golden stone
walls. One of the cities to be rebuilt after the
shocking bombings, the city knew instinctively
how to heal its ravaged war wounds by
painstakingly rebuilding and repairing its streets
and buildings but maintaining its medieval
essence. Dubrovnik attracts a great deal of
tourism and has been on the scene of several
popular television series and international film
productions.
The city of Zadar has recently won awards for
the best European tourist destination, Rovinj and
Porec are venues of the world extreme racing
circuit of light aircraft and sailing, and Split
is host to one of the main international music
Festivals Ultra Europe 2018. Zagreb, the capital,
is considered as the best Christmas market in
Europe, while the infinity of the Croatian islands
attracts tourists from all over the world.
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HOTEL
Croatia
VILLA JOLARA
STYLISH HOTEL OF THE YEAR
Kralja Tomislava 69a 21318 Mimice Croatia •
Tel +385 914482288 • jolara2015.wixsite.com/
jolara; jolara2015@gmail.com
Located in the historic village of Mimice,
Villa JoLaRa offers a stylish collection of
contemporary apartments overlooking the
Mediterranean. Only 900 metres to the
seafront and in proximity to the nearby
towns of Omiš and Makarska, JoLaRa
provides the perfect blend of picturesque
peace and cosmopolitan luxury.
These high-end yet affordable apartments
range in size from studio dwellings to twobedroom
apartments, with luxury amenities
including a swimming pool, garage and
bar. As standard, all apartments has WiFi,
air conditioning, satellite LCD TVs. Fresh
bedsheets and towels are provided for your
comfort, while each spacious kitchen comes
equipped with a fridge, multifunctional oven
and microwave, kettle and coffee maker
and dishwasher, ensuring guaranteed
comfort in your home-away-from-home.
Villa JoLaRa enjoys an enviable location
and is in proximity to many local attractions,
such as the beautiful beachfront of Mimice.
Guests can also enjoy boat excursions to
the central Dalmatian islands, or take to
the Cetina River and enjoy a day of highoctane
white-water rafting.
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199 21

HOTEL
Croatia
ROYAL SUITES
AFFORDABLE HOTEL
OF THE YEAR
Kralja Zvonimira 12 Split, Croatia 21000 •
Tel +385 99 333 6919 • facebook.com/
Royal-Suites
Relax, experience the local atmosphere
and discover why 1.700,00 years ago
Roman emperor decided to build his
palace one block away from Royal
Suites. Open the door, step in a small
family, run hotel perfectly and its
located in the heart of the city with
windows oriented on south sunny side
facing red terracotta roofs and stone
houses of 300 years old peaceful
neighborhood. Relax in one of eight
rooms on the first and second floor of a
residence built by close family ancestor
in 1937. Feel the authentic local family
atmosphere formed by tradition,
heritage, friendliness, dedication and
joy shining from hosts hearts. Enjoy a
cooked home made breakfast in a cozy
dining room, wake your senses with a
smell of a good café and start exploring
the old city at your palm. Feel the
breeze on the main promenade or have
a swim on the city beach all within a
five minute walk. Stroll down the other
side of the block, hop on the ferry or
bus and start your island adventure.
Feel like at home, blend in with a local
culture and experience the city from a
location beyond comparable.
TOUR HOTEL
Spain Coatia
BODEGAS VILLA MAGDALENA TORRES
THE HOTEL AWARD & SPA FOR OF THE EXCELLENCE YEAR
IN BRANDING
Bodegas Mirna ul. 1, Familia 49217, Torres, Krapinske Finca Toplice, “el Maset” s/n,
08796 Hrvatska Pacs • Tel del +385 Penedès, 49 233 Barcelona, 333 • Spain •
Tel villa-magdalena.net
+34938177487 • torres.es
Hotel Started in Villa 1870, Magdalena Bodegas Familia is an Torres is
exclusive a family company small four-star that has come hotel to be
located seen as in Krapinske a reference Toplice for just quality 45 and
kilometres sustainability from in Zagreb. the wine world today.
It With is a 5 unique generations place of for the relaxation, family dedicated
wellness, to wines, you first-class can be assured gourmet that this is a
experience brand you can and trust. business With meetings. a commitment to
All reduce accommodation CO2 emissions is per equipped bottle by 30%
to by the 2020 highest as compared standards to 2008, befitting they are
the taking hotel’s an eco-friendly leisure and approach business too. They
guests,
believe
with
in transparency
a hidden delight
and
–
respect
each room offers a Jacuzzi heated
between company and employees, take a
by the thermal springs of Krapinske
Toplice.
fair approach
Further
in
relaxation
trading and
can
are
be
closely
found connected in the panoramic with their wellness international &
spa customers oasis – from complete over with 150 an countries. indoor The
pool, efforts put massage in by them areas, go a ahead steam to prove
room that their and brand a gym is – not a beautifully just limited to
maintained excellent wine environment but is much that more invites than that.
you A tour to release their wineries your stress is sure and to be
recover once-in-a-lifetime your energy. experience, allowing you
When to choose not luxuriating from a wide in the range spa, of guests activities of
can
the one
indulge
that
in
best
the finest
suits your
gastronomical
needs; from a
delights. The fine dining restaurant
within traditional Hotel winery Villa Magdalena tour with a is pairing a of
place wines for and premium Jamón gastro Ibericos experiences, to a morning of
with harvesting a menu inspired grapes by the in best their of the most
traditional representative Zagorje estate, cuisine the combined Mas la Plana
with elements of modern Italian and
estate, or the Torres Starry Night event
French cuisines.
where you will learn to observe the night
sky in a different and unique way while
enjoying a delicious wine dinner with live
music under the stars.
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201 45

Russia : 2018 FIFA World Cup
On July 15th, 2018, one nation will
be celebrating having been crowned
the FIFA World Cup 2018 Champions.
The World Cup can be a lottery, with
favourites often underperforming and
failing to progress or the underdogs
performing way above expectations,
and surprising football fans worldwide
and progressing to the latter stages of
the World Cup or even better.
For the first time, Russia will be the host
nation, with expectations high amongst
their supporters, realistically, progressing
to the quarter-finals would be an
exceptional achievement. The world’s
largest nation, but not recognised as a
footballing powerhouse.
The opening ceremony on June 14th, at the Luzhniki
Stadium in Moscow, lasting for just over one month, will
be an extravagant performance celebrating the culture
and football of Russia, supported by fireworks, dancers,
and music.
Followed by the main event, and as tradition dictates,
the host nation kicks off the World Cup, normally against
one of the minnows of the World Cup, and for 2018,
it will be Saudi Arabia. However, official FIFA World
Rankings rate Russia and Saudi Arabia as teams of a
similar stature, supporters of the Russian team, may not
be celebrating at the end of the 90 minutes?
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Year after year, the same
teams have the high
expectations and are
seen by many as the likely
finalists. Brazil is often the
people’s choice for their
football with flair, or teams
such as Germany, Italy,
France and Spain, previous
winners and always
expected and typically do,
progress to the latter stages
of the tournament. Other
nations with dedicated fans
that expect success such as
the Netherlands, Belgium,
and England, the latter two
in recent years have been
underachievers and not
progressed on the World
stage, that one would be
expected of teams with such
high calibre players.
Thirty-two teams compete in the group stages for two weeks, eight groups of four
teams. Once the group stages are completed on June 28th, the two highest placed
teams in each group qualify for the last 16 stage. This is where the competition
becomes very exciting, as now teams are just four wins from becoming FIFA World
Cup 2018 winners.
The winners of each game in the final sixteen, progress to the Quarter-Finals played
on July 6th/7th, with the winners progressing to the Semi-Finals on July 10th/11th.
On Sunday, July 15th, its back to where the tournament started just a month earlier,
the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow. The most important and high profile game in
the football calendar will be played, and the winner of this fantastic event will be
known.
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Everyone loves an underdog and for the 2018 World Cup, there are a few
possibilities. Iceland and Poland continue to improve and gain impressive results
against much stronger nations. They play without fear and a desire to win, winning
the hearts of football fans throughout the world.
In the eyes of the online betting companies, Germany is the outright favourites, but
rarely cup tournaments go as expected.
Another key focus on the tournaments will be the top scorer, the world-class
performers of Ronaldo, Neymar and Messi, or is this the opportunity for younger
players such as Harry Kane to prove they are amongst the world’s best.
HOTEL
Russia
THE STATE HERMITAGE
MUSEUM OFFICIAL
HOTEL
HISTORIC HOTEL OF
THEYEAR
Pravda 10, St. Petersburg •
Tel +7 812 777-98-10 •
thehermitagehotel.ru
For the football fan, Russia is expected to be a fantastic venue for the tournament.
With many years of planning, investment in the infrastructure including transport,
new hotels, and new stadiums, the facilities are expected to be superb.
Tickets for each match may not be easily obtained, but there are many public
areas to watch each game. FIFA has provided venues in eleven cities across Russia
known as “FIFA fan fest” venues, these are public family-oriented environments
where matches can be viewed in a party atmosphere. Maybe not as good as
being in the stadium, but certainly a close second.
Situated at the heart of Saint
Petersburg in Russia, The State
Hermitage Museum Official Hotel
may just be 4 years old but it
gives off a vibe of being a historic
location. Developed as a part of
the State Hermitage Museum, this
hotel has been designed to take
you back in time. You shall feel
like a king or queen when staying
at this hotel with splendid services
that make you feel special. The
hotel catches your attention right
from the moment you enter the
grand lobby with a glass dome
and magnificent chandelier.
Whether you choose to lie down
in your king size bed or dine
under the exquisite chandeliers
in the in-house restaurants, you
will definitely feel pampered
here. You could also unwind in
the Mon Plaisir Spa with relaxing
massages. The hotel also boasts of
some fine ballroom and meeting
rooms.
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TOUR
Russia
TJ TRAVEL
TOUR COMPANY
OF THE YEAR
9-ya liniya, 34a, 615 St Petersburg, 199004 Russia •
Tel +7-812-325-6531 • st-petersburg-tours.ru
With more than 10 years of experience in the travel industry,
TJ Travel has solidified its reputation in Russia. You are bound
to experience Russia like never before when traveling with their
knowledgeable and professional guides who create a friendly
atmosphere throughout the tour. Small group sizes ensure that
the tours have a more personal touch. For group sizes larger
than 10, headphones are provided to enable better audibility.
You can also count on them to take appropriate steps during
bad weather conditions.
The St Petersburg tours and shore excursions take you on a
tour through time and help you revisit the rich history of Russia.
In this trip, you can marvel at the splendid architecture of the
Hermitage, Catherine Palace, Peterhof and experience some
of the everyday life. If you arrive at St. Petersburg by a cruise
ship, TJ travel offer trips without a visa which can save you up to
130 USD pp. If you’re visiting the capital, there is no better
operator than TJ Travel to show you around the town. From
short one day tours to three day excursions, you can choose to
explore the city as much as you wish, from Kremlin to the Red
Square as well as the Golden Ring, i.e. cities around Moscow.
Also offered are tours to Baltic ports like Berlin, Stockholm,
Helsinki, Talinn etc. If you’re on a short halt from a cruise ship,
they also offer trips for you without visa and pick and drop you
off at the ships on time!
Comfortable, modern vehicles and experienced tour guides
will ensure that your trip will go smoothly. The multilingual
guides ensure that you get to see the cities from the perspective
of a local and get the real feel of residing there. You can also
choose to have a completely private tour, which is customized
according to your requirements so that you can make the most
of your trip with your loved ones. A part of the money earned
from your trips is donated to orphanages to bring light to the
lives of the kids who live there.
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209 33

THE UNITED
KINGDOM
& IRELAND
Image by: Florian Giorgio
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The Royal Wedding
Windsor, the city in England that will host 2018’s most hashed out wedding between
Prince Harry and the American actress Meghan Markle, feels like a fairy-tale wonderland.
Its castle is the largest and oldest occupied palace in the world; the building is so close
to the neighbouring structures that both royalty and plebs coexist as if time had simply
stopped. It is in St. George’s Chapel, inside Windsor Castle, that the wedding will take
place on the 19th of May 2018. Until then, it is expected that the interest for the event
crowds the city of 150 thousand inhabitants and boosts tourism. In 2011, the wedding
between Prince William (Harry’s older brother) with Kate Middleton, at Westminster
Abbey, in London, attracted more than 30 million tourists throughout the year – an
occasion that yielded billions of pounds to the British economy and made London stop
for a day.
For those wondering whether Windsor is worthwhile, the answer is “yes”. Situated
in the Berkshire, some 35 kilometers from London, visiting the city is an interesting
exercise of contemplation. Especially if coming straight from the bustling capital;
it’s impressive to witness the change in profile and atmosphere over the course of
such a short route.
Despite its many attractions and captivating energy, a day trip would be enough to
get a good feel for the place. Trains from London to Windsor leave from Paddington
(lines Bakerloo, Circle and District, and Circle and Hammersmith) and Waterloo
(lines Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern and Waterloo & City) stations, and cost around
£10. It is best to hop off at Windsor & Eton Riverside, as it is the closest station to
the castle. There is also the option of driving to Windsor (which may take about
50 minutes) but a lack of parking spots, especially during the wedding season,
makes many refrain from this option. Alternatively, for those who don’t want to deal
with either public transport or parking fines, many tourism agencies offer day trips
departing from London.
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Although the castle will be closed on
the Saturday of the wedding, there is
no need to wait for an invitation in
order to get up close to it and really
immerse in the royal atmosphere. A
strategic place to get a good view
of the wedding preparations is Eton
High Street, only a ten-minute walk
from the castle. But regardless of
having an avid interest in the wedding
ceremony, be sure to explore beyond
the castle – an unmissable stop that
nonetheless does not do justice to
the totality of the city’s fable-like
aura. The Windsor Castle has been
home to the Royal British Family for
more than 1000 years and is today
the official residence of Queen
Elizabeth II, as well as her favourite
weekend retreat. Many areas within
the complex are open to the public
throughout the year but, due to the
wedding, changes in schedule are
expected.
The State Apartments, rooms used by
the Queen and family members are
an interesting part of the tour, with a
polished interior decor that features
pieces from artists like Rembrandt
and Canaletto as a highlight. The
St. George’s Chapel, considered
one of England’s best examples
of Gothic architecture, is open for
visitors from Monday to Saturday.
There are the graves of ten English
monarchs, including Henrique VIII,
the main representative of the Tudor
Dynasty. Another attraction that
stands out is Queen Mary’s Dolls’
House – a perfect miniature replica
of an aristocratic mansion completed
in 1924 for the wife of King George
V. Meanwhile, the ceremony of
changing of the guard is a lesserknown
yet intriguing event that
happens around the city and ends
inside the castle, with a schedule that
varies according to the weather.
The gardens are an extra
chapter when visiting
Windsor. The 33-acre
Frogmore Gardens is an old
retreat of the Royal family
which is nowadays used
for official events. It was
projected by the royalty in
1790, with Queen Charlotte
as its main idealizer and later
on add-ons incorporated by
Queens Victoria and Mary.
It is only open to the public
a few days out of the year,
so the schedule of visitation
must match that of the travels.
Among the city’s green
areas, the Windsor Great
Park is another must-see site.
Covering an extension of
4800 acres (19,4 square
kilometers), the park is divided
into four main areas: The
Valley Gardens, The Savill
Gardens, Virginia Waters,
and The Long Walk & Deer
Park – with The Savil Gardens
being the only with an entry
fee. At Virginia Waters, its
ornamental cascades catch
the attention of grown-ups,
while children are often
amazed by 30-meter Totem
Pole. The most iconic area,
however, is The Long Walk
– a wooded pathway with a
clear view of Windsor Castle’s
stone walls that contrast with
the tree-laden, green field.
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Windsor, just like many
places in the same latitude
as London, is also bathed
by the mighty Thames.
The river slices through
the northern section of
the city, complementing
the landscape of some
smaller parks – like
the Alexandra Park
– by providing the
area with a delightful
promenade. But it is not
only contemplative walks
that make this part of the
Thames an attraction. In
Windsor, boat rides are
sought after alternative
for the ones wishing to
float along the waters of
history. Some companies,
such as Fringilla Boat
Trips and Services, rent
small vessels for parties
of up to twelve people
– many of whom also
wish to celebrate their
wedding in a romantic
way, even if in a less
ceremonious manner.
HOTEL
UK
ASCOTS HOUSE
THE AWARD FOR
EXCELLENCE IN SERVICE
Ascots House, 99 Sussex Place, Slough SL1
NN • Tel +01753 478936 • ascotshouse.
com/
Friendly, spotlessly clean and spacious,
Ascots House is a detached homestay,
where service is unpretentious but
sophisticated. Central London and
Heathrow are less than 20 minutes
away, but unlike nearby Windsor, it
is not on the flight path. With fast and
direct access to the M4, M40 and the
M25, it has excellent road connections.
The railway station is 5mins away,
or park in the house’s electric-gated
garden car park.
With six rooms available, features
include free Superfast Broadband
Wi-Fi throughout, Superking, double
and single beds, work desks, Internetenabled
digital TVs, hotel silent fridges,
blackout blinds, Nespresso coffees,
Arran Aromatics toiletries, Egyptian
cotton bedding, robes & velour slippers.
The Thames Valley is notable for
generally having the warmest daytime
temperatures in the British Isles. But
best of all, we have a friendly labrador
who would be delighted to take you the
5mins walk to 160 acres of parkland
with its superb views to Windsor Castle.
From there it’s a 15min walk through
Eton College grounds and onwards to
Royal Windsor.
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BRITISH AIRWAYS i360
Ten times larger
than the observation
capsules
at the London
Eye, the observation
pod is often
called the ‘donut’
owing to its peculiar
shape.
When on board, you’re welcome to
walk around freely inside the pod, or
sit and enjoy the fantastic scenery.
Furthermore, passengers are accompanied
by a pod hosts to guide them
and maintain communications with the
ground staff via camera or radio.
Enjoy the breathtaking
views of Brighton and the
South Coast as you soar
to the skies in the world’s
tallest moving observation
tower. Designed by
the same team that gave
us the London Eye, the
attraction is indeed an
architectural feat.
Standing tall at 162 meters, the British Airways i360 is an
observation tower on the seafront of Brighton in East Sussex,
England. Opened on 4th August 2016, the tower provides
visitors with a beautiful panoramic view of the surroundings from
a completely enclosed pod.
It’s located on the site of the derelict West Pier that burned
down in a fire over a decade ago; you can still see some of
its ruins off the coast. The observation tower has replaced the
Brighton Eye (a moving Ferris wheel) as the new seafront
landmark in the city of Brighton and Hove.
In fact, just as amazing as it is to marvel at the pod emerging
from the bowels of the earth, so it is to be fascinated by the
ingenuity behind it. Designed by the renowned architectural
firm of Marks Barfield, the tower was conceived as a ‘vertical
pier’. Also included in the design is a beachfront building that
serves as a gateway to the tower.
The tower is among the most slender in the world, has a sleek,
toroidal observation pod that has a capacity of 200 people.
The pod itself is made from double glazed, handcrafted glass
that provides you with a breathtaking 360 degree view of the
landscape around.
Ten times larger than the observation
capsules at the London Eye, the
observation pod is often called the
‘donut’ owing to its peculiar shape. A
feat of engineering, the pod ‘takes off’
and ‘lands’ using state of the art cable
car technology.
Interestingly, it uses an energy
recapture technology which gets
activated when it descends. This
allows the British Airways i360 to
generate nearly half the electricity it
needs to power its ascent. How
amazing is that?! As the bubble rises,
those in the beach building below can
watch a cable unfurl on a giant winch
in the basement
This is all well and good, but you
might be wondering what the actual
experience of ‘flying’ on the British
Airways i360 is like. You must check
in, collect your ticket and go through a
security check, as you would for any
flight.
Adding a touch of authenticity to the experience, the entire
process is guided by staff dressed in typical British Airways
attire.
With the security check sorted, you sit and wait on the deck
chairs, watching the previous flight land. All this theatrical flair
serves to build up the eagerness and anticipation for the actual
experience of it.
As the doors slide open and you step inside, you can’t help but
let slip a soft “Wow,” marveling at the inspiring architecture
and engineering. While the West Pier, in its time, welcomed the
Victorian society to ‘walk on water’; the British Airways i360
invites its passengers to ‘walk on air’.
As the pod ascends gradually, you will be able to take in
the views over Brighton from various perspectives. The view
becomes increasingly expansive over the sea in front, the beach
on both sides, the city behind and the Downs beyond.
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You’ll have your breath taken away by this perfect panoramic portrait beneath
you and you might even have to wrestle with some deep philosophical
questions. Despite all this, though, you’ll feel a sense of calm wash over you.
Putting the odd chatter aside, the experience is
entirely serene as you transcend into this peaceful
dimension where the views take your breath away.
And while you’re doing that, enjoy a drink at the
Nyetimber Sky Bar in the pod.
Open throughout the year, this bar proudly serves
drinks produced in Sussex only. Be it a classic
Nyetimber Curvee or a Beer from Harveys, Wobblegate
Apple Juice or South Down Still, they are all on
offer. It is truly a one of a kind bar, so enjoy a bubbly
as you soak in the sanguine sunset.
Between the splendid view and the wonderment of
being up there, time feels warped. Little will you
realize when the twenty-minute ride is up, almost
like being woken up from the most pleasant dream.
Of course, that’s not all that the British Airways
i360 offers. At the beach level, the main building
also houses the West Beach Bar and Kitchen, and a
gift shop. The gift shop has a plethora of unique items
to choose from — including specially commissioned
gifts crafted by local artists.
Stop by the West Beach Bar and Kitchen for a spot
of brunch or lunch before your flight, or evening
tea post it (subject to timings). Using locally grown,
fresh ingredients, the chefs whip up creative
and playful dishes. Be it a traditional English
breakfast, Crumbed Catch of the Day with Chips
or the scintillating Jaffa Pudding, the dishes are
is delightful.
The reconstructed toll booths, which pay homage
to the old Italianate toll booths of age, house the
West Pier Tearoom. From delicious artisan tea and
coffee to deli-style sandwiches and tantalizing
desserts, the modern cafe is indeed a gem of a
place! You can enjoy views of the old West Pier
structure as well as the Regency Square from its
terrace.
Be it a school field trip, business meeting, reception
or any other private celebrations, they offer a
host of services suiting each occasion. The British
Airways i360 is so much more than just a viewing
tower; it has something for everyone.
The husband-wife team of David Marks and Julia
Barfield, the architects, often talked about
their motivation behind the tower. The The
London Eye, despite its immense success in
attracting tourists, isn’t something viable for most
cities. This is where the i360 comes in; it creates a
similar experience, as you watch the scenic
landscape gradually unfold below while you
glide to the top of the tower. Everyone loves
getting a bird’s eye view
All images to be credited British Airways i360
All videos to be credited British Airways i360/Latest TV
All drone footage to be credited British Airways i360/Visual Air
All time lapse footage to be credited British Airways i360/Kevin Meredith
of an astounding scenery like this — the view of a
famous city, rich in history and culture, contrasting
against the vast open sea. This view only makes
the whole British Airways i360 experience more
beautiful and awe-inspiring.
When up there, there are so many thoughts that
will run through your mind. You’ll marvel at man’s
ingenuity, the design, the engineering and the
construction that went into making this wonder.
It’s the serenity of it all, in those moments, that time
feels warped. The British Airways i360 does all of
that to you. It makes you feel giddy like a child as
you rise, gives you a sense of wondrous amazement
and fills you with a youthful invigoration. It is for all
these reasons and more that you must experience
it once.
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HOTEL
UK
HOTEL INDIGO KENSINGTON
BOUTIQUE HOTEL OF THE YEAR
34 – 44 Barkston Gardens, London, SW5 0EW, United
Kingdom • Tel +44-20-73737851• ihg.com/hotelindigo
Located right in the heart of the Royal Borough of
Kensington and Chelsea, Hotel Indigo Kensington is
situated in a Victorian-era townhouse in a boutique
neighbourhood.
The hotel is furnished to reflect the age of the building
and it blends into the environment beautifully.
Every amenity is carefully chosen to give you a
boutique experience, right from newspapers to spalike
bathrooms. If you wish to have an even more
luxurious stay, you could choose the Executive Club
Membership, which comes with a wide range of
perks in itself! To keep up with your business related
activities, work desks are provided in each room as
well with phone and fax facilities.
The hotel also provides standard business services
and also is Wi-Fi enabled to enable guests to
remain online throughout their stay. The concierge
desk gives you all the information required to get
around the city.
The hotel also features a restaurant and bar –
Theo’s Simple Italian, where you can munch on
your favorite Italian dishes or even sip on some
fine wines while relaxing or watching a TV. This
restaurant is open 24x7 so that you can even
satiate your midnight food cravings. A stay at the
hotel gives you complimentary access to the Soho
Gym where you can keep up with your fitness
regime. The hotel also has a state-of-the-art meeting
room with bespoke French Walnut boardroom table
and all the essential equipment to host corporate
meetings. You could also choose to have catering
done in the meeting from the in-house restaurant.
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HOTEL
UK
COMO METROPOLITAN, LONDON
STYLISH LUXURY HOTEL OF THE YEAR
19 Old Park Lane, London W1K 1QT • Tel +44 20 7447 1000 •
comohotels.com/metropolitanlondonl
COMO Metropolitan London is a lavish hotel located
on Park Lane of the upmarket Mayfair region of the city
and boasts of 144 rooms and 19 long-stay apartments.
The minimalist designs of each room exude elegance
and give you a very homely feel along with leisurely
comforts. You can enjoy the beautiful views outside
through the floor to ceiling windows from the comfort of
your bed. Whether you’re looking for a simple deluxe
room or a suite, they’ve got it all. The spotless marble
tiles reflect the lights to create an ambience that is both
comfortable and pleasing to the eye. The concierge
services will give you access to insider knowledge of
the city and will help you plan your trips out in a smooth
manner.
The stylishly designed restaurants are a class apart
and these are the places where you can immerse in the
energy of the city and enjoy some of the most exquisite
Japanese-Peruvian cuisines. You can choose between
the unique Nobu Restaurant, the Met bar or order food
direct to your room. The Lobby Lounge is the place you
can head to for some casual meals even post-midnight!
You can also indulge in some healing therapies for your
mind and body at the COMO Shambhala Spa. Your
fitness routine can be kept up at the fully equipped gym
which is open all round the clock and has expert trainers
too. The hotel also boasts of seven different spaces for
events and private functions ranging from wedding
celebrations to fashion shows. Corporates too can host
their meetings in the sophisticated meeting rooms that
are equipped with all modern technology.
52 224
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Scotland
A warrior spirit and a heart marked by
Gaelic, Nordic, and Saxon heritages
mould the Scottish culture, proud and
singular. The kilt, the bagpipe, the
intimidating sight of a plate of haggis
accompanied by a glass of whiskey:
everything is so treacherously
picturesque that it becomes easy to
fall into the mountainous stereotype of
rocky hills and cloudy mountaintops.
All these facets are there to be seen
and tasted, just as much as there
are many more panoramas to be
discovered within the land of Scots.
If already in the UK for the Royal
wedding this May, it would be a
pity not to get a glimpse of the
kingdom’s northern counterpart.
The easiest way to get to Scotland
from London is to fly from Heathrow
to either Glasgow or Edinburgh
airports. By land, the most costbeneficial
way is by train via the
UK National Rail, operated by
Virgin, ScotRail, and EastCoast.
As of April, temperatures start to
rise and prices begin to fall. In
July and August, the increasing
heat allows for more time to be
spent outdoors. From September
to December, the summer crowds
are already gone and the colours
of autumn create attractive
tonalities along the squares and
parks.
As a trampoline, almost mandatory stop for everyone coming to Scotland, Edinburgh
causes a heck of a first impression. The charming and serene capital city, with its
Medieval Old Town and gray houses surrounded by sheer rocky walls and arboreous
avenues, undergoes an intense transformation for a few weeks in the end of summer,
when it hosts the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. There, one may find one of the world’s
most dynamic and rich cultural events: cinema, performing arts, theatre, music,
street artists and multimedia installations dot the streets (and pubs) of Scotland’s
capital for an entire month. But, as the stronghold of the Scottish identity, Edinburgh
also offers much history in its magnificent castle, museums, palaces, world-class
galleries and, of course, an uncountable number of pubs.
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To counterbalance the city life, breath fresh air, and meet awe-inspiring sceneries,
a well-deserved trip to the Scottish Highlands should be considered. It is easiest
to rent a car and set off from Edinburgh, through the A-90, towards Perth (around
70kms). From then on, it’s a matter of choosing which castles and sites to visit
and then tracing the best route. For centuries, the Gaelic people were pushed
towards the north of Great Britain, in a clash for the survival of their identity and
culture. Their last refuge was the valleys framed by mountains and grey lakes:
sometimes bathed by the sun that irradiated over the low turf, others buffeted by
loaded clouds. The Highlands formed a region full of breathtaking (and daunting)
landscapes and rich history, where it’s possible to hike up UK’s tallest peak (Ben
Nevis), search for traces of the Loch Ness monster, experience the unpredictable
climate and eye-watering beauty of Isle of Skye, or follow the route of the malt
whisky.
Most importantly, before leaving Scotland be sure to have chatted with the locals,
felt their sincerity, warmth and humour – core traits that unite such mettlesome
nation. This is the land of Adam Smith and Graham Bell; of Sean Connery and
Andrew Carnegie; of the explorers James Clark Ross and David Livingstone.
Scotland is just that: a land of people who conquered the world, which conquers
the hearts of those who dare visit her.
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TOUR
UK
ECOSSE EXECUTIVE
TOUR COMPANY OF THE YEAR
42 Burdiehouse Drive, Edinburgh, EH17 8BA •
Tel +44 77190 78020 • ecosseexecutive.com
Travelling to Scotland and need a vehicle to travel around?
Ecosse Executive is the answer to all your miseries. Across
many years, they have provided VIP class mini-bus services
throughout Scotland. Whether you’re in need of a punctual
transportation to and from the airport or need a vehicle to
facilitate your corporate outings, they provide professional
and customized service for all.
Ecosse Executive aren’t your everyday transport company.
They provide exclusive guided sightseeing tours of historic
Edinburgh and stunning Scotland. You can choose between
pre designed or tailor made tours which take you to the
beautiful countryside of Scotland. Moreover, they offer
excursions which can be up to 5 days long. With them you
can also see the beauty of Edinburgh city with its dramatic
skyline and the marvelous Edinburgh Castle. All tours come
with a chauffeur and a knowledgeable guide to take you
around and give you a background of the location.
If none of the tours seem to fit your liking; you can choose to
customise your tour according to your requirements so that
you can make the best out of your trip. Their fleet of luxury
vehicles is completely custom built to seat 8 passengers and
boasts of a stocked bar, fridge and a coffee machine. The
leather seats and interiors are designed to provide utmost
comfort to passengers along with wifi, now available in all
vehicles.
Need a vehicle for your special day? You can get their
luxurious vehicles for that as well. Golfers can sit back and
relax while they take care of your transportation to and from
your favorite golf course. All in all, Ecosse Executive takes
care of all your road transportation throughout Scotland and
ensures that you have a comfortable journey.
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Top 10 Dublin
As the capital of Emerald Island, Dublin attracts thousands of tourists annually and
sets Ireland in motion like any other city in the country. Besides the cordiality and
receptiveness of the Irish people, the many attractions that the capital has to offer are
the reasons why so many fall in love with it. Boredom is a word that doesn’t exist in
the vocabulary of those who visit Dublin – a well-structured destination, with cultural
and entertainment options, both during the day and at night, rain or shine. There are
museums and libraries that keep valuable treasures; shopping streets surrounded by
elegant buildings; parks with lush-green areas; theatres and stadiums, among other
options.
2) St. Patrick’s Cathedral
It would be somewhat impossible to talk about Ireland and not mention St. Patrick,
thus, the St. Patrick’s Cathedral – Ireland’s largest church – may be considered as
one of the main attractions in Dublin. The cathedral was erected in the 13th century,
on the spot where St. Patrick used to baptise the faithful. An interesting feature of
this particular church, aside from its stained glass windows, interior decoration,
and Norman architecture, is the fact that Jonathan Swift – a famous writer known
for “Gulliver’s Travels” – was buried there. Ireland’s most popular writers are
venerated at the garden surrounding the cathedral, showing the importance of
literature within the country. The cathedral also often organizes beautiful concerts
and choirs which are worth watching.
1) Guinness Storehouse
The Guinness brewery is one of Ireland’s symbol and a great Irish pride – which
makes it an important touristic attraction in Dublin. For those who wish to find
out more about the history of Guinness, inside the factory building there is a
museum devoted to the most famous brewery in the country. Among the topics are
the processes of evolution of the beer, its founders and other curiosities resulting
from over 250 years of existence, with good humour and interactivity setting the
rhythm of the visit. Besides, the museum is situated in the old fermentation plant,
so it’s possible to learn about the brewing process and its peculiarities. Even more
interesting is learning how to properly pour a Guinness in an amusing class at the
Guinness Academy, with the right to a free pint and certificate.
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3) Kilmainham Gaol
Ireland is now a fully-independent country, but its autonomy was a strenuous and
painful process that didn’t come without the loss of many lives – including those of
political and military leaders that could’ve contributed greatly to the nation. Many
Irish nationalists were once imprisoned in Kilmainham Gaol, which eventually
became a stage for the execution of these advocates and today it’s the biggest
unoccupied prison in Europe. It’s one of Dublin’s most visited sites. The independence
of Ireland in the beginning of the 20th century, showed to the world the strength
of the Irish people and the determination of its foremost political figures, and the
participation of Kilmainham in some of the country’s most remarkable events – such
as the 1916 Easter Rising – turns a visit to this thick, cold building into a moment
of reflection over the costs of war – a bittersweet yet enriching visit.
4) Trinity College
The Trinity College is
the oldest university in
Ireland, founded by
Queen Elizabeth in
1592. Since it is a rather
prestigious school, many
famous Irish scholars
– like Edmund Burke
and Oscar Wilde –
attended university there.
Nowadays, tourists crowd
the building’s courtyards,
be it for a guided tour or
simply to appreciate its
classical architecture. The
university also safeguards
The Book of Kells – a
680 page, medieval
manuscript written by
Irish monks containing
the Latin texts of the Four
Gospels.
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5) Dublin Castle
Founded in the 13th century, the Dublin Castle is a large fortification that currently
serves to host illustrious events linked to the State of Ireland. However, the castle was
under the control of the English for centuries and, only after Ireland’s independence,
it was effectively used by the nation. Therefore, it is common to say that the Dublin
Castle is the most English among the castles of Ireland. The guided tours to the old
fortification include seeing the lavish apartments, many still decorated according
to the imperial era and thus abundant in neoclassical traits. It was around this
structure that Dublin (formerly known as Dubh Linn) was born and developed.
6) Phoenix Park
Much like any city in Europe, Dublin has public gardens so people can enjoy sunny
days in nature. Europe’s largest urban park, The Phoenix Park is situated slightly
far away from the city centre – a stronghold of tranquility. It is the ideal place for
the practice of sports due to its large, leafy trees, being highly-sought after on
the weekends. The Phoenix Park also lodges the presidential residence and the
Dublin Zoo. Like with the many activities in Ireland that are done in open-air, rainy
weather can cause inconvenience, but on a sunny day, this is a great option.
7) St. Stephen’s Green Park
St. Stephen’s Green Park has a very central location which makes it highly
coveted on weekdays, especially during lunchtime. After being restored by Sir
Arthur Guinness, the park was re-opened to the public in 1880. Its well-conserved
walkways, numerous trees, and vibrant flower beds are ideal for photographing –
or finding a patch of grass where to take a nap.
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8) Temple Bar
The Temple Bar is a riverside region in Dublin that preserves the Medieval style
through its narrow, pebbled streets. It is a great option for the ones seeking the
trendiest pubs, nightclubs, and restaurants in the city, besides observing the
architecture of the houses and the movement of the dwellers. This area also houses
various cultural centres, like the Photography Centre, the Irish Film Institute, and the
Projects Arts Centre.
10) The Rag Trader
Drury Street is nowadays one of Dublin’s hub of restaurants and bars – yet it
hasn’t always been the place you would go to grab a pint. Back in the days, the
area was where most of Ireland’s textile manufacturers chose to settle. This old
fabric warehouse has replaced its yarns for taps, looms for bar stools, making the
pub pastime ever so cultural. Another distinguishable feature of the Rag Trade –
certainly one of a kind – is that the majority of walls are made out of drawers, from
floor to ceiling.
9) Gafton Street
The famous Grafton Street
is one of the busiest sites in
Dublin. Situated between St.
Stephen’s Green Park and
Trinity College, this pedestrianonly
street features an array of
shops and buskers that lighten
up the spirit of passerby even
on the cloudiest days. Grafton
Street works as an open-air
shopping mall and is the ideal
spot to grab a coffee and go
for a stroll – or people-watch.
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TOUR
Ireland
IRISH FOOD TRAIL
CULINARY TOUR
COMPANY OF THE YEAR
4A Scarlet Row, Essex Street West, Temple Bar, Dublin
8, Ireland • Tel +353 85 774 7005•
Visiting Ireland and wish to explore its food scene?
Irish Food Trail is your calling. This is your chance
to try out the best food, restaurants and pubs of
Ireland. You can explore the cities of Dublin and
Galway with the locals so as to discover the city
just the way they see it.
This 3 hour walking tour takes you to the most
popular and hidden restaurants of the city. In the
journey, you will be able to visit three different
venues and try 3 Irish dishes along with a local
guide to show you around and explain the history
of these dishes. Not only will you get to try out the
traditional food of Ireland but will also get to
sample modern Irish cuisine.
The group sizes are kept small to ensure that you
get a more personalized experience. Not only is
the food included but you can also try out a
selection of Irish drinks and can meet locals and get
to know about Irish culture. If you don’t drink wine
or beer, they also accommodate your
requirements.
The walking tour will show you the best places to
visit in the city and the hidden spots which only the
local know about. If you wish to have a private tour
with your close ones, they organise special tours
for you as well; even if your group sizes are larger
or smaller than the required number. With Irish
Food Trail you will not only discover the food of
Ireland but also its cities, the culture and the
people.
irishfoodtrail.ie
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TOUR
Ireland
IRISH CHAUFFEURS
CHAUFFEUR COMPANY OF THE YEAR
Ireland • Tel +353(0)1 8019810 • irishchauffeurs.com;
info@irishchauffeurs.com
Looking for chauffeur service?
Irish Chauffeurs is your calling! With affiliate
networks in over 88 cities across the world, you
can forget your chauffer finding woes now. A
terrific fleet of BMW and Mercedes cars fills their
fleet along with some luxurious coaches for larger
groups as well!
A completely guided chauffeur tour of Ireland
is possible with them, whether it is a road trip or
even an aerial one in a private helicopter or air
craft! Whether you wish to go around the city in a
7 series BMW or a Mercedes Viano, they have it
all. For larger groups, the Mercedes Sprinter is the
ideal coach with a small capacity and comfortable
seating. For group sizes which are larger than 12,
they have executive coaches with plush seating
complete with all facilities like tables, refrigerators
and toilets!
Their coaches are available for corporate events
as well with unparalleled comfort in a corporate
coach. On your special wedding day, Irish
Chauffeurs offers wedding cars too with uniformed
chauffeurs and spotlessly clean cars to make
your day unforgettable. Many 5 star hotels and
embassies trust them with their transportation and
they also provide their cars for state visits and road
shows. This truly is the tour company that makes you
feel like a VIP when you’re traveling with them. Feel
like taking a trip in these vehicles without having to
create your own itinerary? Worry not; they’ve got
some amazing tour packages for you as well!
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TOUR
Ireland
IRISH LUXURY TOURS
THE AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN SERVICE
Dunshaughlin, Co. Meath, Ireland •
Tel +353 1 8019810• irishluxurytours.com;
info@irishluxurytours.com
The beautiful island of Ireland waits to be discovered
by you.
If you intend to do so in a luxurious manner, Irish
Luxury Tours is the company to get in touch with.
They have tours specially designed for first time
visitors to the north and northwestern region of
the country as well as Dublin and south west. For
the second timers, longer tours of up to 2 weeks
are available all around the country or to Dublin,
southwest and western region.
Looking for a short, day trip? Worry not; they’ve
got a great bundle of day tours, ranging from
Powerscourt House and Glendalough to The Cliffs
of Moher and Galway, so that you can explore
Ireland just the way you wish to! If none of their
tours seem to grab your attention, you can choose
to create your very own Irish experience. Whether
you’re traveling as an individual or as a group,
their team of specialists will ensure that all your
requirements are taken care of.
If you wish to have a driver guide for a day, they
offer the very best of them so that you can have a
fun trip, irrespective of the size of your group. The
driver takes you to places all around the country in
the type of vehicle you choose. Their luxurious
range of vehicles is perfect for all individuals and
groups too! With hundreds of satisfied customers
over the years, you can be assured that your trip to
Ireland is in safe hands.
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The Rag Trader
Located in the popular ‘rag’ district of Dublin is The Rag Trader. No, this isn’t a textile
shop but a bar and restaurant. This area was well-known for its numerous warehouses
and offices of textile industry and was hence at the center of the textile business. Today
however, it has turned into one of the city’s most happening areas with amazing bars
and restaurants. The Rag Trader is reminiscent of its origins as a textile warehouse and
it will take you on a journey into the past — the days of rag trade in Dublin.
The highlight of their amazing bar collection is the Whiskey Trays Menu, which
consists of five different flights of three different whiskies, so that you can compare
them and get a different experience altogether. With seven top brands of Irish
whiskey to choose from, you’re definitely in for a treat. Along with the bubbling
bar menu, they also boast of a seafood-oriented bar bites menu which has some
fantastic preparations of oysters, smoked salmons and fish goujons!
Specializing in stout and
whiskey, the ambiance
of the bar has been
designed keeping in
mind the designs of
those times. The intimate
seating arrangements
with antiques all around
will transport you into
the days of the rag trade.
Comfortable seating and
pleasant lighting draw
hundreds of people here
to sit back and relax
with a glass of beer or
whiskey. What makes the
entire experience more
interesting is the live bar
which too is made to
resemble century old bars
with rustic ambiance.
You can find many old
telephones and dolls
on the walls with your
favourite liquors. On
many of the walls, you
can also find floor to
ceiling drawers that add
to the striking interiors of
this place.
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The entrance of this bar serves as a time portal and takes you into a totally different
era. The glass windows allow ample of natural light inside and illuminate the entire
bar during day hours; this makes the whole ambiance even more peppy. Live music
in the backdrop adds to the overall atmosphere and the staff ensures that you are
pampered with delicious food all along with their courteous services.
Apart from the regular dining and
bar, they have special sampling
sessions for whiskey enthusiasts
who wish to try the finest of Irish
whiskeys. This is possible through
their whiskey tasting classes where
their whiskey monsieur conducts
an informative session on whiskey
trade in Ireland and shares tricks of
the trade too! Not only will you get
to sip the best whiskeys but also get
an in-depth idea about its history.
From Teelings to Redbreast 21, you
will get a chance to sample five of
the most well-known Irish whiskeys,
be it single malt, single grain, single
pot or even blended! The best part?
This hour or two long session can be
booked online and you can have
this private session with your family
and friends as a group so that you
can get a more intimate experience
too! What better place can there be
to try Irish whiskeys than a historical
location?
Drury Street today may not be what
it was a few centuries back with its
bustling restaurants and bars along
with lively nightlife that exists today,
but The Rag Trader does manage to
live up to the spirit of this rag district
with its decoration and velvety
whiskeys!
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Index
Team page 2
Contents 3
Criteria 4, 5, 6, 7
Cullenery Delights 8, 9
- France 10, 11
- Spain 12, 13
- Belgium 14
- Germany 15
- Italy 16, 17
- Food Tour (Bodegas Torres) 18
- Food Tour (Love Rioja) 19
- Food Tour (Hidden in Spain) 20
- Food Tour (Flavors of Paris) 21
- Food Tour (Gastro Rallye Day
Tour) 22, 23, 24, 25
- Food Tour (Brewery Bourgogne
des Flandres) 26, 27
- Food Tour (Wine Tour Amalfi
Coast) 28, 29
Editors Choice - 7 Wonders of
Europe 30
- Hotel (Crowne Plaza Brussels -
Le Palace) 31
- Hotel (Kabadoni Hotel) 32
- Hotel (Corinthia Hotel Budapest)
33
- Hotel (Hotel Stadt Wien) 34, 35
- Hotel (Hotel Cattleya) 36, 37
- Hotel (mk Hotel Remscheid) 38,
39
- Hotel (Strmol Castle) 40
Northern Europe 42, 43
- Iceland 44, 45, 46, 47, 48
- Iceland Air ... 49, 50, 51, 52, 53
- Your Day Tours 54
- Travel Reykjavik 55
- Radisson Blu 1919 Hotel 56, 57
- Aurum by Guobjorg
Jewellery 58, 59
Western Europe 60, 61
- Alpine Lake Towns 62, 63, 64,
65, 66, 67, 68, 69
- Hotel Brennseehof 70
- BLS navigation 71
- Lido Palace 72, 73
- Made in Bern 74, 75, 76, 77,
78, 79
- France 80, 81, 82, 83
- Cédric’s Paris 84
- American Concierge 85
- Juan Jerez Del Valle Q&A 86,
87
- Netherlands 90, 92, 94, 95, 98,
99
- Hilton Amsterdam Airport
Schiphol 93
- Andaz Amsterdam 96, 97
- Hotel Sofitel Legend the Grand
Amsterdam 100, 101
- Austria 102, 103, 104, 105, 106,
107, 108
- Park Hyatt Vienna 109
- Germany 110, 111
- Big Black Car Tours 112, 113
Southern Europe 114, 115
- Portugal 116, 117, 118, 119, 120, 121
- TakingUThere 122
- Amendoeira Golf Resort 123
- Celina Tours 124
- Hotel H10 Duque de Loulé 125
- Hotel Baía Azul 126, 127
- Spain ... 128,129
- Barcelona Holidays 130, 131
- Adriana Gastelum Q&A 132,
133
- LifestyleDMC 134
- Hotel Arts Barcelona 135
- Malta 136, 137, 138, 139
- Gaulos Dive Cove 140, 141
- Rolling Geeks 142
- Italy 144, 145, 146, 147, 148, 149,
150
- Hotel Weihrerhof 151
- A&L Wellnessresort 152, 153
- Right Path Adventures 154, 155
- Road Trip : Santa Maria to
Rapallo 156, 157, 158, 159
- Excelsior Palace Hotel 160, 161
- Siena Tour Guide 162
- Palazzo Belmonte 163
- Italian Vista 164, 165
- Robinson Club Apulia 166,
167, 168, 169
- Sicily 170, 171
- Hotel Pullman Timi Ama
Sardegna 172, 173
- Greece 174, 175, 176, 177
- Kastro Suites 178, 179
- Cori Rigas Suites ... 180
- Israel 182, 183
- Hotel Rothschild 22 184, 185
- Mantis Tours 186
Eastern Europe 188, 189
- Albania 190, 191
- Adriatik Hotel 192
- Croatia 194, 195, 196, 197
- Villa JoLaRa 198, 199
- Royal Suites 200
- Villa Magdalena 201
- Russia 202, 203, 204, 205, 206
- The State Hermitage Museum
Official Hotel 207
- TJ Travel 208, 209
- The UK 210, 211
- The Royal Wedding 212, 213,
214, 215, 216
- Ascots House 217
- Britsh Airways i360 218, 219,
220, 221
- Hotel Indigo - Kensington 222,
223
- COMO Metropolitan
London 224, 225
- Scotland 226,227, 228, 229
- Ecosse Executive 230, 231
- Ireland 232, 233, 234, 235, 236,
237, 238, 239
- Irish Food Trails 240, 241
- Ireland Chauffeurs 242, 243
- Irish Luxury Tours 244, 245
- The Rag Trader ... 246, 247,
248, 249
250
251

252