Sojourn | Sovereign Magazine Autumn 2022
In this issue, we are on a mission to match you with your version of true paradise. Whether that means stargazing in Tenerife, an idyllic Greek getaway or your first trip to Bali, Sojourn has it covered! Our expert team continue to visit our favourite countries, to ensure the hotels we partner with are of the high quality you deserve and experience the destinations so we can match you with your perfect getaway. In this issue, you can find out first-hand what a stay in Atlantis, The Palm can offer you in ‘Hello Dubai’ with our very own Email Marketing Manager, David. Are you looking to 2023? With less than 4 months left of the year, we have started planning our dream holidays for 2023. Rush to page 17 to start ‘thinking of spring’ in our article filled with our top picks for holidays next year.
In this issue, we are on a mission to match you with your version of true paradise. Whether that means stargazing in Tenerife, an idyllic Greek getaway or your first trip to Bali, Sojourn has it covered!
Our expert team continue to visit our favourite countries, to ensure the hotels we partner with are of the high quality you deserve and experience the destinations so we can match you with your perfect getaway. In this issue, you can find out first-hand what a stay in Atlantis, The Palm can offer you in ‘Hello Dubai’ with our very own Email Marketing Manager, David.
Are you looking to 2023? With less than 4 months left of the year, we have started planning our dream holidays for 2023. Rush to page 17 to start ‘thinking of spring’ in our article filled with our top picks for holidays next year.
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<strong>Sovereign</strong>.com<br />
<strong>Autumn</strong> <strong>2022</strong> issue<br />
<strong>Sovereign</strong> Luxury Travel's magazine<br />
Reach for the Stars!<br />
Think of Spring<br />
Dance the Globe<br />
Eat Like a Greek<br />
Our Top Stargazing<br />
Destinations<br />
From Croatia to<br />
the Canaries<br />
Step into<br />
Folk Dancing<br />
& Idyllic Greek<br />
Getaways
Our commitment<br />
to you<br />
At <strong>Sovereign</strong> Luxury Travel, we are here to make sure that your well-deserved holiday runs smoothly.<br />
Our team is on hand to ensure that your eagerly awaited travels are everything you hope for.<br />
Travel with Confidence when you book with us.<br />
Around-the-clock support<br />
We offer a full 24/7 concierge service<br />
for complete peace of mind,<br />
both before and during your holiday.<br />
Curated by experts<br />
ABTA and ATOL bonded, we have been creating<br />
holidays for 50 years, offering destinations and<br />
hotels that are handpicked by us.<br />
Your complete service<br />
Your holiday with us includes your flights,<br />
accommodation, private transfers and airport<br />
lounge access with fast-track security, as standard.*<br />
Free amendment<br />
Change your holiday with no<br />
amendment fee (any extra holiday<br />
costs incurred are payable).^<br />
Refund Guarantee<br />
If we have to cancel your trip due to flight disruption,<br />
we will refund you, however we will always endeavour<br />
to find you an alternative. Guaranteed.~<br />
Health and safety<br />
All of our partners must adhere to<br />
local health and safety standards,<br />
which we closely monitor.<br />
* Lounge access and fast-track security are subject to availability and the departure time of the outbound flight. Access in UK airports only where this service operates.<br />
^ Up to 21 days before departure you can change your holiday with no amendment fee (excluding international flights, and any non-refundable in-destination costs).<br />
~ Up to 21 days before departure you can cancel free-of-charge and we’ll refund you less any non-refundable costs. Although every effort is made to ensure any<br />
non-refundable fees are minimised, there are occasions where we must commit to international and domestic flights, accommodation, and other services to<br />
support the running of our holidays. The value of non-refundable costs can be requested from your sales agent at the time of booking.<br />
All subject to change. Correct at time of print as of 02/09/22. Please visit <strong>Sovereign</strong>.com for latest terms and conditions.
noun: a temporary stay<br />
verb (used without object ): to stay for a time in a place; live temporarily<br />
sow·Juhn<br />
PARADISE | <strong>Autumn</strong> <strong>2022</strong><br />
What does paradise look like to you?<br />
Perhaps you’ll find it in our latest edition of SoJourn,<br />
the magazine from <strong>Sovereign</strong> Luxury Travel.<br />
We all have our own idea of bliss, and our<br />
holidays are the ultimate time to find it! We<br />
kick off this issue reaching for the stars, as we<br />
showcase Our Top Stargazing Destinations<br />
(page 8). Customer Operations Specialists,<br />
Scott and Artan, were blown away by their<br />
experiences witnessing shooting stars in Tenerife!<br />
For some, paradise is a truly tropical encounter<br />
in islands and beaches, so we highlight The<br />
Seychelles, just for you (page 20) and some<br />
Idyllic Greek Getaways (page 32). Plus, you can<br />
read up on our Beginner’s Guide to Bali (page<br />
26). This wonderland of beaches, culture, and<br />
paddy fields is always worth the distance.<br />
Perhaps though, you are seeking something<br />
totally unexpected, and that’s why we offer<br />
Ras al Khaimah: Into the Desert (page 22),<br />
or you can dive right into Weird & Wonderful<br />
Underwater Worlds, that offers the most unlikely<br />
of sights in the deep blue of the ocean (page<br />
36). You can also step into a world of fascinating<br />
folk dance traditions and Dance the Globe<br />
(page 14).<br />
The quintessential accompaniment to every<br />
perfect holiday is, of course, a delicious feast of<br />
flavour, and so we invite you to Eat Like a Greek<br />
(page 44), and head into the vineyards of the<br />
Algarve: A Flourishing Wine Region (page 34).<br />
While we’re in Portugal, we seek out Madeira:<br />
A Floating Garden (page 24), the country’s very<br />
own Garden of Eden.<br />
Our team is here to make your luxury holiday<br />
smooth and hassle-free, with the same<br />
thoughtful tailor-made approach and<br />
personalised 24/7 service that we’ve been<br />
offering guests for over 50 years. And, with our<br />
Travel with Confidence guarantee, the only<br />
difficult decision to make is which paradisiacal<br />
destination you wish to escape to!<br />
Helen Adamson<br />
Managing Director<br />
<strong>Sovereign</strong>.com<br />
<strong>Autumn</strong> <strong>2022</strong><br />
so Journ
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PARADISE<br />
COVER FEATURE<br />
8 stargazing<br />
Reach for the Stars!<br />
Unearth the magic of balmy nights spent al fresco with our top<br />
destinations. A reverie of dark, twinkling skies awaits!<br />
INSIDE<br />
OUR AUTUMN<br />
<strong>2022</strong> EDITION<br />
12<br />
Hello Dubai!<br />
22<br />
Ras al Khaimah<br />
Into the Desert<br />
6<br />
Paradise Found:<br />
Destination Map<br />
14<br />
Dance the Globe<br />
24<br />
Madeira<br />
The Floating Garden<br />
8<br />
Reach for the<br />
Stars! Our Top<br />
Stargazing<br />
Destinations<br />
17<br />
Think of Spring<br />
26<br />
Your Beginner's<br />
Guide to Bali<br />
11<br />
A Feast of<br />
Flavours with<br />
Gran Hotel Bahía<br />
del Duque Resort<br />
20<br />
The Seychelles,<br />
just for you<br />
28<br />
Life by the River<br />
with The Samaya,<br />
Ubud<br />
ABTA No.V4068<br />
<strong>Sojourn</strong> is a publication of <strong>Sovereign</strong> Luxury Travel | <strong>Sovereign</strong>.com<br />
Travel with Confidence | customer.relations@sovereign.com<br />
Connect with us<br />
Managing Director: Helen Adamson<br />
Publisher: Madhatter Creative Co. - Jen Marsden<br />
Design: K8 Design & Marketing Ltd - James Palmer<br />
Front cover image: Sunset time on the tropical beach (Siraphol Siricharattakul, Freepik)<br />
4 <strong>Sovereign</strong>.com
• Private & Tailormade Holidays<br />
• Handpicked Accommodation & Destinations<br />
• Small Group Escorted Tours<br />
Citalia.com<br />
CONTENTS<br />
KEY FEATURES<br />
14<br />
Dance the Globe<br />
Step into our world of traditional<br />
folk dancing, whether you want<br />
to watch or participate.<br />
17<br />
Think of Spring<br />
Are you already thinking about<br />
a holiday in the springtime?<br />
Tap into our top picks.<br />
34<br />
Algarve: A Flourishing<br />
Wine Region<br />
Come, grab a glass with us in<br />
the ever-so picturesque Algarve.<br />
36<br />
Weird & Wonderful<br />
Underwater Worlds<br />
Join us for some of the world’s<br />
most incredible underwater<br />
experiences.<br />
42<br />
The Real Pirates<br />
of the Caribbean<br />
We discover what swashbuckling<br />
really went down in Antigua<br />
and Barbados.<br />
44<br />
Eat Like a Greek<br />
The Greek food scene is a<br />
riveting, sumptuous affair,<br />
from traditional tavernas<br />
to haute cuisine.<br />
29<br />
A Hidden Gem<br />
with The Pavilions<br />
Bali, Sanur<br />
38<br />
Dream, Feast,<br />
Relax<br />
with Grand Park<br />
Hotel Rovinj<br />
48<br />
Where the<br />
Celebs Head:<br />
Las Palmas<br />
30<br />
Karen Noble’s<br />
Memories in<br />
Fuerteventura<br />
40<br />
Guest Story:<br />
A Family Escape<br />
to the Maldives<br />
49<br />
Adults Only!<br />
with Secrets<br />
Lanzarote<br />
32<br />
Idyllic Greek<br />
Getaways<br />
42<br />
The Real Pirates<br />
of the Caribbean<br />
50<br />
Why <strong>Sovereign</strong><br />
Luxury Travel<br />
34<br />
Algarve:<br />
A Flourishing<br />
Wine Region<br />
44<br />
Eat Like a Greek<br />
51<br />
Discover our<br />
sister brands<br />
36<br />
Weird &<br />
Wonderful<br />
Underwater<br />
Worlds<br />
46<br />
Dream Deluxe<br />
with IKOS Resorts<br />
Images courtesy of: @jasondecairestaylor, www.underwatersculpture.com, Amanti, MadeForTwo Hotels, Anantara MAIA, Atlantis, The Palm, Bill & Coo Suites and Lounge, Blue Palace, Carana Beach, Carpe Diem in Santorini,<br />
Constance Ephelia, Constance Lemuria, Daios Cove, Domes Lake Algarve, Domes Miramare, Domes Miramare, Eagles Palace, Eagles Villas, Elounda Mare, Gran Hotel Bahía del Duque Resort, Grand Park Hotel Rovinj, Hilton<br />
Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa, Hilton Seychelles Northolme, Hotel L’Archipel, Hotel The Volcán Lanzarote, Ikos Aria, IKOS Resorts, MarBella Elix, Mykonos Grand Hotel & Resort, Mystique Santorini, Nasima Dunne, OBLU Select Sangeli,<br />
Raffles Seychelles, San Antonio Hotel in Santorini, Santa Catalina Hotel, La Palma, Secrets Bahía Real Resort & Spa, Secrets Lanzarote Resort & Spa, The Pavilions Bali, The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, The Ritz-Carlton, Abama, The<br />
Romanos Costa Navarino, The Samaya Ubud, The Westin ResortCosta Navarino, Veligandu Island Resort & Spa, Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah, Zante Maris Suites,<br />
Prices are estimations based on <strong>2022</strong>/2023 travel and are correct at going to print but are subject to change. Please note that any flight or travel times included are approximations.<br />
<strong>Autumn</strong> <strong>2022</strong><br />
so Journ
Paradise<br />
FOUND<br />
<strong>Sovereign</strong> Luxury Travel offers bespoke luxury holidays<br />
in almost 100 destinations across the globe.<br />
Where will you go? Speak to one of our Personal Travel Planners on 01293 765004<br />
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Mexico<br />
An Antigua<br />
Gn<br />
Grenada<br />
• Cancun<br />
• Playa Mujeres<br />
• Riviera Cancun<br />
• Riviera Maya<br />
St<br />
• Jolly Harbour<br />
• St. John’s<br />
• St. Mary’s<br />
St Lucia<br />
• Labrelotte Bay<br />
• Soufrière<br />
• Eau Piquant<br />
Bb<br />
• Grand Anse Beach<br />
• L'Anse Aux Epines<br />
Barbados<br />
• Christ Church<br />
• St. James<br />
6 <strong>Sovereign</strong>.com
DESTINATION MAP<br />
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Spain & Spanish Islands<br />
Spain:<br />
• Costa Del Sol<br />
Balaeric Islands:<br />
• Menorca<br />
• Majorca<br />
• Ibiza<br />
Canary Islands<br />
• Fuerteventura<br />
• Gran Canaria<br />
• Lanzarote<br />
• Tenerife<br />
• La Gomera<br />
Portugal<br />
• Algarve<br />
• Lisbon Coast<br />
It Italy<br />
Lakes:<br />
• Lake Como<br />
• Lake Garda<br />
• Lake Maggiore<br />
Regions:<br />
• Neapolitan Riviera<br />
• Sardinia<br />
• Sicily<br />
• Tuscany<br />
Mn Montenegro<br />
Gr Greece<br />
• Halkidiki<br />
• Athenian Riviera<br />
• Parga<br />
• Peloponnese<br />
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Cyprus<br />
• Ayia Napa<br />
• Latchi<br />
• Limassol<br />
• Paphos<br />
• Pissouri<br />
• Troodos Mountains<br />
United Arab Emirates<br />
• Abu Dhabi<br />
• Dubai<br />
• Ras Al Khaimah<br />
Seychelles<br />
• Félicité Island<br />
• Mahé<br />
• Praslin<br />
• Silhouette Island<br />
Mauritius<br />
It<br />
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Mn<br />
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Pi Portuguese Islands<br />
• Madeira<br />
Cr Croatia<br />
• Dubrovnik<br />
• Split<br />
• Hvar<br />
• Rovinj<br />
• Trogir<br />
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Greek Islands<br />
• Corfu<br />
• Crete<br />
• Kefalonia<br />
• Kos<br />
• Mykonos<br />
• Rhodes<br />
• Santorini<br />
• Skiathos<br />
• Zakynthos<br />
Turkey<br />
• Belek<br />
Ml<br />
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• Belle Mare<br />
• Bel Ombre<br />
• Flic En Flac<br />
• Trou d’Eau Douce<br />
Maldives<br />
Thailand<br />
• Bangkok<br />
• Chiang Mai<br />
• Khao Lak<br />
• Khao Sok<br />
• Koh Phangan<br />
• Koh Samui<br />
• Krabi<br />
• Phuket<br />
• Koh Yao Islands<br />
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• Nusa Dua<br />
• Sanur<br />
• Seminyak<br />
• Ubud<br />
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<strong>Autumn</strong> 7 <strong>Sovereign</strong>.com<br />
<strong>2022</strong><br />
so Journ
Reach for the Stars!<br />
Our Top Stargazing Destinations<br />
Discover the magic of balmy nights spent al fresco.<br />
Where vibrant vistas from the setting sun make way for a reverie of dark,<br />
twinkling skies. Join us on a tailor-made stargazing journey.<br />
Stargazing is as old as time. Some cultures considered the heavens to be mirrors of the<br />
Earth. The stars have been utilised to make sense of life, guide great journeys, observe<br />
time, and even predict the future.<br />
Whether you choose to follow in the footsteps of ancient astronomers who only had<br />
the naked eye, or embrace modern observatories and masterful telescopes, there’s<br />
something incredibly captivating and almost divine about gazing up at the starry<br />
skies. More than just a moment to pause and ponder, it’s your chance to marvel in the<br />
mysteries of the universe.<br />
As the sun goes down you get this great view of the summer<br />
glow behind the rocks as dusk turns to night. As there is no light<br />
pollution the stars begin popping out, one by one. Once the full<br />
sky is open your expert guide starts explaining all the stars and<br />
even the planets that are visible. Using the telescope you can see<br />
everything up close and the colours they radiate: a smattering<br />
of pinky whites, light blues, and bright white. Then there are the<br />
zodiac signs, and your guide will explain how the ancient<br />
people and different cultures used them! It’s incredible.<br />
Scott Oakley, Customer Operations Specialist<br />
Stargazing at Gran Hotel Bahía del Duque Resort, Tenerife<br />
8<br />
<strong>Sovereign</strong>.com
COVER STORY<br />
AL WADI DESERT<br />
TENERIFE<br />
Scott Oakley & Artan Prifti stargazing<br />
The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah Moon Bar<br />
As we’ve mentioned before in <strong>Sojourn</strong>, Tenerife has an ancient<br />
tradition of stargazing, and boasts ideal environmental conditions<br />
for it throughout the year, particularly within Teide National Park.<br />
Tenerife is one of few places in the world that’s a designated Starlight<br />
Tourist Destination, an area protected from light pollution so that you<br />
can enjoy the night sky in all its glory, observing 83 of the 88 known<br />
constellations.<br />
Learn how to know your novas from your nebulas with a trip to Gran<br />
Hotel Bahía del Duque Resort. Already a treasure in its own right with<br />
direct beach access, multiple restaurants and bars, and an enormous<br />
swimming pool, there’s one extra perk to the resort: its own in-house<br />
observatory. You can take a private guided tour of the observatory and<br />
learn about how our ancestors would use the constellations.<br />
A 7 night stay at Gran Hotel Bahía del Duque Resort<br />
starts from £1,199 per person<br />
The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah Tented Villa<br />
There’s nowhere quite like the expansive desert, which feels a million<br />
miles from civilization, to be able to see an entire canopy of stars in<br />
the sky.<br />
The sprawling Al Wadi Desert of the UAE is one fantastic spot,<br />
particularly when you’re staying in The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah,<br />
a secluded oasis among rippling red sands. Disconnect from all<br />
the distractions of the modern world as you enter this luxury tented<br />
camp, and embrace activities that celebrate the native nomadic<br />
people, the Bedouin.<br />
During the full moon every month, you have the chance to take a<br />
camel ride to a special stargazing platform, from where you can<br />
observe the star-filled night skies. Astronomy experts are on hand to<br />
help you learn all the secrets of the solar system, pointing out visible<br />
planets, stars, and constellations. You’ll even have the chance to<br />
learn how to capture images!<br />
Alternatively, you can stay at The Ritz-Carlton, Abama, where you can<br />
partake in your own private stargazing picnic right on the beach. To<br />
call it a picnic, however, seems an injustice, given that you’re being<br />
served a gastronomic delight from the resort’s own Michelin-starred<br />
Txoko, from the world-renowned chef Martín Berasategui. Feast on<br />
contemporary dishes inspired by Basque traditions as you observe<br />
transforming skies with your naked eye.<br />
A 7 night stay at The Ritz-Carlton, Abama,<br />
starts from £1,199 per person<br />
The Ritz-Carlton, Abama<br />
Alternatively, you can enjoy the stars during a night walk, where a<br />
knowledgeable guide will teach you about and help you identify the<br />
desert’s native nocturnal animals, including hedgehogs, foxes, and<br />
frog-eyed geckos!<br />
A 5 night stay at The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah<br />
starts from £3,365 per person<br />
<strong>Autumn</strong> <strong>2022</strong><br />
so Journ
REACH FOR THE STARS!<br />
MALDIVES<br />
It’s probably unsurprising that you can easily spot celestial skies<br />
when you’re in the middle of the Indian Ocean. As a blanket of<br />
darkness descends in the archipelago, the Maldives offers easy<br />
stargazing experiences from quieter parts of your island resort.<br />
For a really romantic starry night, stay at Veligandu Island Resort<br />
& Spa, where you can experience a special stargazing cruise on<br />
a traditional dhoni. You’ll be served bubbly and canapés along<br />
the way, before descending onto a private island, as the waves<br />
gently lap the shore. You can even spend a night sleeping under<br />
the stars and, after a peaceful slumber, wake up naturally to a<br />
gorgeous sunrise. If you’d rather stay in the resort, we recommend<br />
choosing one of the six sunset jacuzzi beach villas, where you can<br />
watch the stars in your own private jacuzzi.<br />
A 7 night stay at Veligandu Island Resort & Spa<br />
starts from £2,439 per person<br />
THE GREEK ISLANDS<br />
The ancient Greeks knew a thing or two about astronomy and<br />
cosmology, with the skies above them alight with stars. Even today,<br />
once the lights are out, you can still see the twinkle above.<br />
Perched on a clifftop, Mykonos Grand Hotel & Resort is ideally<br />
positioned for impressive views. The Bolla Bar terrace boasts a<br />
telescope, which you can use to peek at the beach, sea, and Delos<br />
Island by day, and the sparkling stars by night.<br />
A 7 night stay at Mykonos Grand Hotel & Resort<br />
starts from £1,279 per person<br />
Just a 10 minute drive from Carpe Diem, one of our preferred resorts,<br />
lies Santorini Sky, where you can enjoy a two hour dining experience<br />
in the Sky Dome, which is located at the highest point on the island.<br />
Sheltered from the elements, you can experience a delightful evening<br />
embracing the night sky as you tuck into local seafood and pasta,<br />
while a dedicated host is on-hand to ensure your comfort. Talk about<br />
island paradise!<br />
A 7 night stay at Carpe Diem in Santorini<br />
starts from £1,389 per person<br />
Which astral adventure piques your curiosity? Speak to one of our Personal Travel Planners on 01293 765004.<br />
10 <strong>Sovereign</strong>.com
ADVERTORIAL<br />
A Feast of Flavours<br />
WITH GRAN HOTEL BAHÍA DEL DUQUE RESORT<br />
You can travel a world of gourmet cuisines<br />
with a luxurious and delicious stay in Tenerife.<br />
Is it just us or do mealtimes help establish<br />
our holiday routine? The best holidays<br />
revolve around food - and it’s the shared<br />
moments around the table that often bring<br />
the most vivid memories.<br />
At Gran Hotel Bahía del Duque Resort in<br />
Costa Adeje, you’re bound to make many<br />
memories, as there are over nine restaurants<br />
to choose from during your stay. Executive<br />
chef Juan Miguel Cabrera is on board to<br />
help you navigate exquisite Canarian and<br />
Basque dishes, as well as culinary cultures<br />
and flavours from across the world.<br />
Even between meals, you can slurp up<br />
natural, healthy juices and homemade<br />
ice cream. With 13 lounges dotted around<br />
the resort, there truly is a bar for every<br />
personality, so you can find your own<br />
perfect spot for sundowners.<br />
Kick back in the lush surroundings and<br />
inhale the enticing aromas - it’s only your<br />
tastebuds that need to do any work on this<br />
foodie-fabulous holiday! We share just a<br />
few of the highlights.<br />
NUB<br />
Head off on a Michelin-starred sensory<br />
adventure to Latin America.<br />
KENSEI<br />
Discover the far-off lands of Japan with a<br />
contemporary twist.<br />
LA BRASSERIE BY PIERRE RÉSIMONT<br />
Taste Gallic flavours, washed down with<br />
fine French wines.<br />
BEACH CLUB<br />
Feast on the Mediterranean to a soft<br />
sea breeze.<br />
LA TRATTORIA<br />
Tuck into the warm essence of Italian<br />
family fare.<br />
SUA<br />
Breathe in the smokiness of authentic<br />
Basque cuisine.<br />
A 7 night holiday at Gran Hotel Bahía del Duque Resort starts from £1,199 per person.<br />
Speak to one of our Personal Travel Planners on 01293 765004<br />
<strong>Autumn</strong> <strong>2022</strong><br />
so Journ
Hello<br />
Dubai!<br />
Considering a city break in Dubai? With year-round sunshine, direct flights,<br />
and glamorous beach resorts, there’s a whole new world just waiting for you.<br />
David Johnson, <strong>Sovereign</strong> Luxury Travel’s Email Marketing Manager,<br />
shares his most recent experience in the UAE’s prized jewel.<br />
DUBAI IS LARGER THAN LIFE<br />
Dubai has always fascinated me.<br />
The idea that this sprawling city was<br />
constructed on land reclaimed from<br />
the sea still blows my mind, even after<br />
multiple visits! And that’s not the only<br />
thing that blows my mind about Dubai.<br />
Everything is larger than life. Take the<br />
Burj Khalifa for example, the world’s<br />
tallest building. Head to the 125th floor<br />
observation deck, and it’s hard not to be<br />
impressed as you gaze across the city’s<br />
grandeur in all its 360° view glory.<br />
Then there’s Ain Dubai, the world’s<br />
highest observation wheel, which is more<br />
than double the size of the London Eye.<br />
You need at least four days to experience<br />
all the urban centre has to offer - whether<br />
that’s roaming the colossal designer<br />
malls for tax-free shopping, or taking in<br />
the many family-friendly theme parks that<br />
bring out your inner child.<br />
The beaches overlooking the glittering<br />
Arabian Sea - just, wow.<br />
Dubai is ideal for sun worshippers and<br />
anyone who loves the heat - but even if<br />
you don’t you’ll always find a shaded,<br />
cool corner, a refreshing breeze, and<br />
ice-laden cocktails!<br />
I think the best phrase to describe the city is,<br />
‘If you can do it, Dubai can do it bigger and better.’<br />
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ADVERTORIAL<br />
INTO PALM ISLAND<br />
On my most recent visit to Dubai, I was lucky enough to spend<br />
several nights at Atlantis, The Palm, the first hotel to open on the<br />
iconic Palm Island, occupying the most enviable position at the end<br />
of the island’s crescent.<br />
Atlantis, The Palm is so globally renowned,<br />
it really needs no introduction. Yet its reality hit me<br />
when I arrived and gazed up at the impressive<br />
22 storeys of classical Arabian architecture.<br />
YOU CAN SNEAK AWAY FROM THE KIDS!<br />
While Atlantis, The Palm works hard to ensure the whole family<br />
is entertained, there are always adult-only areas that provide a<br />
haven to relax in.<br />
We were lucky enough to have access to the WHITE Beach Club<br />
during our stay. This exclusive adults-only area is the perfect place<br />
to completely unwind on the comfortable sun loungers. Personally,<br />
this was my favourite part of the entire hotel. The pool, staff, beach,<br />
and views of the city made it absolute perfection.<br />
Atlantis, The Palm is much more than a hotel. There’s a selection of<br />
high-end boutiques to browse, from watches and designer clothes<br />
to souvenirs. Then you’ve got such a wide collection of fine dining<br />
restaurants: Nobu, Hakkasan and Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street<br />
Kitchen & Bar… the options are endless and constantly delectable.<br />
YOU’LL LOVE THE OCEAN THEME<br />
The resort has the world’s largest Aquaventure Waterpark, which<br />
will keep even the biggest of kids entertained, and also hosts<br />
The Lost Chambers Aquarium, which is home to over 65,000<br />
marine animals. You can even go diving in the ten-metre-deep<br />
Ambassador Lagoon!<br />
CLUB LIFE IS 100% WORTH IT<br />
As you would imagine, the rooms are luxurious and comfortable.<br />
We stayed in an Imperial Club Room with Palm View, which gave<br />
us exclusive access to the Imperial Club Lounge.<br />
This includes a separate check-in area, breakfast facilities, and a<br />
sunset terrace, where we enjoyed complimentary pre-dinner drinks.<br />
Imperial Club rooms also give you access to your own section at the<br />
private Imperial Club Beach.<br />
Whether you are looking to take the whole family<br />
away or just want a couples retreat for your next<br />
holiday, Dubai and Atlantis, The Palm should be on<br />
your travel wish list. I cannot recommend it enough!<br />
A 5 night holiday in Dubai, staying at Atlantis, The Palm, starts from £2,739 per person.<br />
Speak to one of our Personal Travel Planners on 01293 765004<br />
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Dance<br />
the<br />
Globe<br />
Are you ready to stomp about with us?<br />
Every culture has its own traditional dance.<br />
Sometimes performed for religious purposes<br />
and sometimes simply for entertainment,<br />
folk dances are a great way to better understand<br />
a destination, leaving you with special holiday<br />
memories. Whether you prefer to watch or<br />
participate, we’ve got a treat for you.<br />
BALINESE DANCE<br />
BALI<br />
Rooted in religion, with acrobatics thrown in for<br />
good measure, Bali has a rich ancient dance culture.<br />
Head to a Devdan show to see all the varied forms,<br />
such as kecak, a monkey chant temple dance<br />
that’s based on the epic story, The Ramayana, war<br />
dances like Baris, and masked dances like Topeng.<br />
At Samabe Bali Suites & Villas you can enjoy an<br />
hour-long dance class and learn the more delicate<br />
gestures of Balinese dance and discover the<br />
meaning behind every movement.<br />
A 7 night stay at Samabe Bali Suites & Villas<br />
in Nusa Dua starts from £2,145 per person<br />
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FLAMENCO<br />
ANDALUCÍA<br />
GREEK DANCING<br />
GREECE<br />
Don’t dismiss Spanish flamenco until you’ve seen a show!<br />
The vibrant, frilly polka dot costumes and thin embroidered<br />
veils may make you think of the 1980s and your granny, but<br />
flamenco’s larger than life movements of handclapping and<br />
foot-stomping can be incredibly hypnotic and soul-stirring<br />
as you focus on a solo dancer who’s filled with sorrow and<br />
passion. While the dancer performs alone on the stage,<br />
they are accompanied by a singer and guitar player<br />
offstage. Flamenco is best witnessed in Málaga, Marbella,<br />
and Granada and, if you're lucky, you might get to catch<br />
an unplanned performance in the streets. The easier way,<br />
however, is to book a special Anantara experience that<br />
takes you into an authentic tablao flamenco venue.<br />
The dance traditions you find in Greece are as old as<br />
time, and the great Greek philosophers Plato and Aristotle<br />
referred to it in their texts. You’ll find over 10,000 dances<br />
across the country islands, performed at harvest festivals<br />
and family celebrations. In Crete, many of the dances are<br />
lively and quick with athletic kicks, and the most popular<br />
dances are conducted by large groups of men holding<br />
hands in half circles. We challenge you not to be engrossed<br />
by the accompanying plucked stringed instruments while<br />
watching the live dance shows at Grecotel Amirandes.<br />
A 7 night stay at Grecotel Amirandes in Crete<br />
starts from £895 per person<br />
A 7 night stay at Anantara Vila Padierna in Andalucía<br />
starts from £1,095 per person.<br />
JARABE TAPATÍO<br />
MEXICO<br />
Mexico’s national dance is one of courtship, where the man tries to<br />
woo his heart’s desires. The female dancer rejects his advances until<br />
finally accepting, all to the fanfare of either a mariachi band or<br />
stringed ensemble. You’ll find women typically dressed in embroidered<br />
blouses and skirts, while men wear the traditional charro (Mexican<br />
cowboy) outfit complete with sombrero and silver trim. This ‘hat<br />
dance’ was once banned as it was considered morally offensive by<br />
the country’s Spanish colonial and religious rulers, but today you<br />
can easily enjoy dance classes and a Mexican-themed evening that<br />
showcases dancing right from your luxurious Riviera Maya resort!<br />
A 7 night stay at Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya in Mexico<br />
starts from £1,549 per person<br />
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DANCE THE GLOBE<br />
AL AYALA ABU DHABI<br />
BODUBERU<br />
THE MALDIVES<br />
Celebrate ancient nomadic Arab life with Al Ayala, a stick<br />
dance that represents a battle scene. About 20 men dressed<br />
in their thobe (white robes), stand shoulder to shoulder in<br />
rows, elegantly moving to beating drums while holding thin<br />
bamboo canes, symbolic of arrows or swords. Listen out for<br />
grand sounds of leather bagpipes, cymbals, and the men<br />
as they chant ancient poetry. You’ll find this dance show<br />
performed in Abu Dhabi, especially on national occasions<br />
and during festivals.<br />
Be welcomed into your Maldivian private island resort<br />
to the beat of the boduberu (meaning big drums). This<br />
traditional dance is undertaken by large groups of<br />
dancers, drummers, and singers. Boduberu starts slowly,<br />
drawing you in until it becomes ever more frenzied and<br />
bewitching, and some of the dancers even go into a<br />
trance! Evolved from the dance songs of Africa, boduberu<br />
was brought to the Indian Ocean by sailors, and you can<br />
enjoy it every Friday night at OBLU NATURE Helengeli.<br />
A 7 night stay at Fairmont Bab al Bahr in Abu Dhabi<br />
starts from £1,299 per person<br />
A 7 night stay at OBLU NATURE Helengeli in the Maldives<br />
starts from £2,645 per person<br />
BÉLÉ<br />
CARIBBEAN<br />
Influenced by its French colonial settlers, bélé is a dance not<br />
to miss! It’s a fabulous frilly-skirted fusion between graceful<br />
swaying and bopping, where bottom-shaking and toe-tapping<br />
is all to the beat of African drums and song. Ask for a bélé dance<br />
lesson at your Caribbean resort!<br />
A 7 night stay at Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort<br />
in St. Lucia starts from £1,975 per person<br />
As seen on Holidaying with Jane McDonald: The Caribbean<br />
Would you like to delve into traditional dance during your holiday? Speak to one of our Personal Travel Planners on 01293 765004<br />
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THINK OF<br />
Spring is a great time to get away from the hustle and bustle<br />
of everyday life and take a well-deserved break closer to home.<br />
Discover our top five destinations for 2023!<br />
You don’t have to travel far to enjoy a pleasant springtime<br />
holiday. The weather has already warmed up in many<br />
destinations, making it the perfect time to explore new<br />
places or simply relax in the sunshine. And, with several<br />
public holidays falling between March and May, there are<br />
plenty of long weekends you can choose from that will help<br />
you make the most of your time off.<br />
Whether you're looking for a city break or a beach holiday,<br />
we’ve got destinations to suit all tastes. Take advantage of<br />
this quieter travel time and book yourself a spring getaway.<br />
You won't regret it!<br />
CYPRUS<br />
Enjoy the warmth of Cyprus in late spring, without the<br />
usual overwhelming heat seen in summer. Temperatures<br />
tend to be around 17°C to 23°C in May. Oh, and this<br />
is when the villages are particularly pretty, with their<br />
blooming wildflowers and almond trees! It’s an ideal time<br />
to explore the greater outdoors, whether that’s relaxing on<br />
quieter beaches, such as the family-friendly Makronissos<br />
Beach in Ayia Napa that uniquely features an ancient<br />
burial site, splashing around in the waterparks, or delving<br />
into the picturesque sea caves found in the coastal Cape<br />
Greco National Park.<br />
WHERE TO STAY<br />
AMANTI, MADEFORTWO HOTELS<br />
A 7 night holiday, staying at Amanti, MadeForTwo Hotels<br />
in Cyprus starts from £1,159 per person<br />
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CROATIA<br />
In May and June there’s one place you want to head to<br />
and that’s the northwest region of Istria, a pastoral land<br />
filled with ancient folklore. Visualise the scene: strolling<br />
through little hilltop villages with views of snow-capped<br />
mountains, golden fields, and rolling groves of olives and<br />
grapes. Speaking of which, this is a great time to take<br />
to the vineyards and enjoy wine tastings of long-aged,<br />
rare natural wines. Or, you could head to the mountains<br />
for the crisp, fresh air, and to the forests to forage for the<br />
local spring delicacy of wild asparagus. Stay on the Istrian<br />
Riviera, where you always have the sparkle of the Adriatic<br />
Sea to drink in. Venture into the narrow cobbled streets<br />
and piazzas of Rovinj for a distinctly Venetian vibe, sans<br />
the crowds.<br />
WHERE TO STAY<br />
GRAND PARK HOTEL ROVINJ<br />
A 7 night holiday, staying at Grand Park Hotel Rovinj<br />
in Croatia starts from £1,145 per person<br />
LANZAROTE<br />
Away from the summer throng, Lanzarote is a dream in<br />
spring. It’s the hottest of the Canary Islands, with average<br />
temperatures of 19°C, so you can comfortably hit its<br />
beaches. You’ll find several fairs and festivals throughout<br />
the island, whether that’s full moon parties, sporting<br />
events like the Spring Duathlon in Costa Teguise or the<br />
Ironman race in Playa Blanca, or the popular religious<br />
event of Semana Santa in March/April, when the island<br />
comes alive. It’s also the perfect climate to hike Lanzatore’s<br />
volcanoes, and witness natural delights, such as the fresh<br />
shoots of native flora and migrant birds that pause here at<br />
this time of year.<br />
WHERE TO STAY<br />
HOTEL THE VOLCÁN LANZAROTE<br />
A 7 night holiday, staying at Hotel The Volcán Lanzarote<br />
starts from £685 per person<br />
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THINK OF SPRING<br />
PORTUGAL<br />
The primavera season is an ideal time to visit Portugal,<br />
particularly in the warmer Algarve. Whether you’re looking<br />
for a long weekend or a fortnight’s getaway you can wind<br />
down with golf and spa treatments. You may have the odd<br />
drop of rain, but the average temperatures make up for it,<br />
between 10°C and 22°C! You can spend a day on the beach<br />
without becoming a lobster. It’s an opportune time to hike or<br />
bike the trails along the Via Algarviana, and venture into the<br />
many nature parks with their delicate almond and cherry<br />
tree blossom. Feast on Easter sweet treats, usually laden<br />
with almonds unsurprisingly, and wander into villages<br />
teeming with historic castles, churches, and museums. If<br />
you’re a football lover then you can enjoy the drama of the<br />
final leg of the Portuguese League in May, or you could<br />
visit the Iberian Mask Festival in Lisbon, where you’ll find a<br />
celebration of local music and handicrafts.<br />
WHERE TO STAY<br />
DOMES LAKE ALGARVE<br />
A 7 night holiday, staying at Domes Lake Algarve<br />
in the Algarve starts from £1,299 per person<br />
SANTORINI<br />
While there are occasional rainy spells, you’ll often find<br />
the sun gloriously shining during the spring months of<br />
Santorini. Most of the hotels open by April, and the streets<br />
pop with inviting vibrant blooms. It’s a romantic, tranquil<br />
time to visit. The pace feels slower as you amble through<br />
the winding whitewashed streets, tucking into local food<br />
and wine along the way. You’ll often find the churches of<br />
Santorini alive with activity, as bells ring out to celebrate<br />
Easter. Take the pleasant afternoon hike up to Oia Castle<br />
and experience the grandeur of the sun setting over the<br />
beautiful half-moon shaped bay. If you're lucky, you may<br />
have it all to yourself! For a deeper dive into history, visit<br />
the ancient archeological site of Akrotiri.<br />
WHERE TO STAY<br />
SAN ANTONIO HOTEL<br />
A 7 night holiday, staying at San Antonio Hotel in Santorini<br />
starts from £1,169 per person<br />
Are you thinking of a spring escape? Speak to one of our Personal Travel Planners on 01293 765004<br />
<strong>Autumn</strong> <strong>2022</strong><br />
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The<br />
Seychelles<br />
just for you<br />
Every island of the Seychelles has a resort that will speak to your<br />
individual style. Here’s our top pick of island-hopping holidays!<br />
FAMILIES<br />
Keen to bring your teens with you? Then you’ll want an active<br />
Seychelles holiday that ticks lots of boxes. We’ve got it sussed.<br />
Start off on the main island of Mahé at Constance Ephelia, where<br />
you’ll find a sprawling yet sophisticated resort that’s sandwiched<br />
between two amazing beaches. Stay in a two or three bedroom<br />
family villa, complete with private pool and garden. Go snorkelling<br />
in the marine park or splash around in one of the five main<br />
swimming pools. There’s a kids’ club for four to 11 year olds, who<br />
can enjoy themed activities, such as cooking classes, traditional<br />
Seychellois arts and crafts, movies and games nights. Meanwhile,<br />
teens can go sailing, ziplining, rock climbing, and kayaking! With<br />
plenty of fine dining restaurants and beach bars, you’re spoilt for<br />
choice, and there's a dedicated à la carte menu just for the kids.<br />
We then suggest you cruise across to Hilton Seychelles Labriz<br />
Resort & Spa, Silhouette Island, where you can stay in a spacious<br />
private villa tucked within a tropical paradise of white sandy<br />
beaches and forested mountains. As a family you can go hiking,<br />
snorkelling, play tennis, or simply enjoy the pampered poolside<br />
service while chilling in a cabana. Children aged four to 12 can<br />
enjoy the Island Academy’s activities, including painting classes,<br />
yoga, tortoise feeding, and scavenger hunts. There’s even a special<br />
Junior PADI diving programme for children over 10 years old!<br />
HONEYMOONERS<br />
If you’re seeking a touch of tropical culture coupled with the<br />
romance for your once-in-a-lifetime experience, then look<br />
no further.<br />
The exclusive resort Anantara MAIA in Mahé is idyllic for<br />
honeymooners, as each opulent villa is secluded by fragrant and<br />
floral gardens but boasts mesmerising views of the Indian Ocean! A<br />
Villa Host will provide you with around-the-clock dedicated service<br />
so you don’t need to lift a finger - and in-room dining is always an<br />
option! Settle in with the pop of a champagne bottle and a bath for<br />
two. Take a sunset helicopter ride over the island, romance away<br />
with Anantara’s signature private dining experience, Dining by<br />
Design, and restore yourself in Anantara’s soothing spa.<br />
When you’ve come all this way, it makes perfect sense to extend<br />
your honeymoon by travelling onto Raffles Seychelles on the<br />
magical island of Praslin, just a 15 minute plane ride or scenic<br />
one hour ferry ride away. Stay in a contemporary private pool<br />
villa and choose from an array of private experiences, such<br />
as a beach barbecue, dinner under the stars, a cookery class,<br />
excursions to neighbouring islands, or a special couple’s<br />
champagne spa treatment!<br />
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CULTURE LOVERS<br />
Do you want to embrace the unique Seychellois culture?<br />
Choose a hillside chalet at Carana Beach in Mahé, which<br />
offers the most value for money stay in the archipelago,<br />
and create your own pace! You can hike in the rainforest<br />
and hills, dive in the ocean, trot off for a sunset picnic by<br />
horseback, or lounge by the infinity pool or on the glorious<br />
golden sands.<br />
Afterwards, sail away for a home-from-home stay at Hotel<br />
L’Archipel in Prasin, which is just a stone’s throw from the<br />
beach but provides the ideal launchpad for discovering<br />
all the historic charms of the island. Venture into the<br />
Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve and visit Praslin Museum.<br />
Whatever you do, be sure to tuck into the mouthwatering<br />
Creole flavours at La Gigolette!<br />
DAY DREAMERS<br />
Perhaps all you want from your Seychelles holiday<br />
is utter relaxation, liberally sprinkled with sublime<br />
panoramas, food, and warmth?<br />
We recommend a pampering package at Hilton<br />
Seychelles Northolme in Mahé, where every corner<br />
of the resort boasts brilliant ocean views, including in<br />
your private Swiss-style pool villa that’s nestled in the<br />
hillside. Indulge your spirit with time in the spa, and<br />
be sure to order a cool cocktail just in time for sunset!<br />
You can then venture to a spacious suite or villa<br />
at Constance Lemuria in Praslin to continue your<br />
leisurely theme. Boasting an 18-hole championship<br />
link that’s dubbed the ‘world’s most beautiful golf<br />
course’, it’s the perfect place to practise your swing.<br />
Or, you can simply sink your toes into the sand and<br />
gaze at the horizon. If you’re lucky, you may get to<br />
witness the shimmer of sea turtles nesting on the<br />
beach.<br />
A 7 night holiday in the Seychelles starts from £1,899 per person.<br />
Speak to one of our Personal Travel Planners on 01293 765004<br />
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RAS AL KHAIMAH<br />
Into the Desert<br />
A beach holiday combined with a stay in the heart of the Arabian desert?<br />
Don’t mind if we do! It’s time to set your own pace with an adventure like no other in Ras Al Khaimah.<br />
We love embracing the unusual, and Ras Al Khaimah will let<br />
you have that beach holiday with a difference, as you spend<br />
a few days in the desert!<br />
Away from the flashy, larger than life world of Dubai, the<br />
lesser-known destination of Ras Al Khaimah offers an<br />
authentic adventure into Arabian traditions, expertly<br />
intertwined with comfortable, contemporary experiences<br />
and luxurious accommodation.<br />
Ras Al Khaimah will enchant you. Revel in the old souks<br />
and the Al Marjan night market, where artisans gather and<br />
celebrate their heritage with mouthwatering Arabian cuisine,<br />
entertainment, and local wares. Unearth the Muslim culture<br />
at the 400 year-old Mohammed bin Salem Mosque, or sail<br />
through natural mangroves. Get up at dawn to witness the<br />
mesmerising ancient sport of camel racing at the Al Sawan<br />
race track, which today features riderless robot jockeys.<br />
Dream away in the grandeur of the mountains or on the<br />
pristine sandy beaches.<br />
Start your holiday in rolling russet dunes with a stay at The<br />
Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert. Spread out<br />
across a 1,235 acre nature reserve, it’s built in the style of a<br />
classical Arabian watchtower. The pace here is guided by the<br />
indigenous people of the desert, the Bedouin, and many of<br />
the activities revolve around their way of life.<br />
You may wish to learn all about the ancient art of archery or<br />
falconry. Wind down with the deeply relaxing hydrothermal<br />
therapy at the Desert Spa.<br />
One of the highlights are all the desert dining experiences,<br />
complete with a private butler. Settle into low-seated majlis<br />
and enjoy a traditional Bedouin barbecue, or head to the<br />
rustic Farmhouse for wild meats and homegrown vegetables.<br />
At night, remember to look to the skies for the stargazing we<br />
mentioned earlier, perhaps with a whisky in hand from the<br />
Whisky Lounge or a shisha at the Moon Bar!<br />
After all your desert adventures, it’s time to head to the coast<br />
for pure sun, sea, and sand! En route, you can explore one of<br />
the UAE’s few-remaining traditional houses at the hauntingly<br />
abandoned town of Al Jazirah Al Hamra.<br />
Stay at the regal resort of Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah,<br />
with its palatial rooms and suites. Among the many features<br />
- including an 18-hole championship golf course, decadent<br />
spa, and watersports right from the private beach - there’s<br />
an adults-only pool area. Or, you might prefer to choose the<br />
newest addition to our handpicked collection, InterContinental<br />
Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab Resort and Spa, which also<br />
fringes the white sandy shores of the Arabian Sea and boasts a<br />
plethora of delicious fine dining restaurants.<br />
Should you wish to sprinkle your beach time at Al Hamra with<br />
more adventure, then you can always take a day trip to the<br />
Jebel Jai Mountains for thrilling outdoor activities, and visit<br />
the UAE’s last remaining hilltop fortress, Dhaya Fort.<br />
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The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert<br />
Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah<br />
7 night desert and beach holiday in Ras Al Khaimah starts from £2,999 per person.<br />
Speak to one of our Personal Travel Planners on 01293 765004<br />
<strong>Autumn</strong> <strong>2022</strong><br />
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MADEIRA The<br />
Floating<br />
Garden<br />
Where the warm wind blows from Africa.<br />
Let us take you away to a natural floating garden<br />
in the breathtaking Portuguese archipelago of Madeira.<br />
There’s a reason why Madeira is called the Floating<br />
Garden - it looks like absolute paradise. With its balmy<br />
location off the northwest coast of Africa, it’s home to some<br />
of the most incredible and biodiverse botanicals, which<br />
you can enjoy all year-round.<br />
As soon as you reach the mainland there’s a fanfare<br />
for your senses, where explosions of colour signal a<br />
sweet fragrant nectar. There are over 700 plant species<br />
throughout the island, and almost 120 plants are<br />
completely native to the island, which is why some dub<br />
Madeira the Galápagos Islands of Europe.<br />
Born out of volcanic activity, Madeira is home to many<br />
inviting dramatic green landscapes, wildflower-filled<br />
valleys, and rugged cliffs. There really are two sides to the<br />
main island. Tranquil and cosmopolitan beach scenes in<br />
the southern capital of Funchal wonderfully contrast with<br />
the windy and rugged northerly islands.<br />
Stay in Funchal and it’s easy to dip into all the natural<br />
bounty. Flowers pop up everywhere. While there’s a<br />
clean cosmopolitan air to the city with its upmarket<br />
eateries and luxurious yacht-lined marina, through the<br />
whitewashed, bougainvilla-lined winding streets you'll<br />
get to witness traditionally dressed women selling vibrant<br />
flowers and fruits against the backdrop of Gothic and<br />
Victorian architecture.<br />
Head to Madeira’s sprawling yet perfectly-manicured<br />
Botanical Gardens, where a world of patchworked lush<br />
flowers and trees comes to life. Take the cable car to<br />
Monte Palace Madeira, where an exotic plant collection<br />
collides with quirky African sculptures.<br />
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After a day lazing on the golden beaches, you could<br />
choose more action and hike the levadas - manmade<br />
water channels that were built in the 16th century to carry<br />
water to the dry south of the island. The levadas wind<br />
through mountains and forests, and you can choose both<br />
gentle and challenging paths. Or, you might like to be<br />
more adventurous and go horse riding or mountain biking?<br />
Perhaps you’d like to venture into the world’s largest<br />
laurel forests? So impressive, these have been protected<br />
as a UNESCO World Heritage site. You’ll also find native<br />
birds, such as the trocaz pigeon, Madeira firecrest, and<br />
zino’s petrel.<br />
There’s also the magnificent coastline to explore, perhaps<br />
with a morning boat trip where you can go snorkelling in<br />
the bays and stop off for a picnic lunch in a secluded cove.<br />
Alternatively, take a sunset cruise and enjoy a sundowner<br />
on the waters.<br />
Before you venture to bed, a nightcap of madeira wine is<br />
the obvious choice!<br />
WHERE TO STAY<br />
Reid's Palace, a Belmond Hotel, as seen on the<br />
BBC’s Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby<br />
A 7 night holiday in Maderia, starts from £785 per person. Speak to one of our Personal Travel Planners on 01293 765004<br />
<strong>Autumn</strong> <strong>2022</strong><br />
so Journ
A Beginner's<br />
Guide to<br />
Bali<br />
Is it worth flying all the way to Bali for your next holiday?<br />
Bursting with culture and incredible beaches, we think it is!<br />
Make the most of your holiday with our top tips.<br />
If you’re looking for a winter or spring escape that includes sunshine,<br />
beaches, and a hearty dose of inspiration, then Bali is your dream<br />
destination.<br />
Bali is the central and most popular island within the archipelago<br />
nation of Indonesia. The Balinese people are welcoming, kind,<br />
and creative, seemingly to mirror the gentle and graceful natural<br />
landscapes.<br />
Located just south of the equator, you can expect<br />
tropical heat and humidity all year-round.<br />
Bali only has two seasons: dry and rainy! Even during the rainy season<br />
- from November to March - it’s typical to get a warm downpour for a<br />
couple of hours before the sun's back out again.<br />
To make the most of all Bali has to offer, we recommend you stay at<br />
least 10 days or a fortnight, and take time to explore two key areas.<br />
Even though Bali is large, it literally only takes a few hours to drive<br />
between Central Bali and the south of the island.<br />
Central Bali<br />
In the heart of Bali lies a natural paradise of waterfalls, rice<br />
terraces, meditation, and Balinese spa centres, which was best<br />
demonstrated in the 2010 film, Eat Pray Love. You’ll find crumbling<br />
ancient Hindu temples, such as the Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)<br />
here, and there’s always plenty of opportunity to learn a local craft,<br />
such as batik-making or silversmithing.<br />
UBUD<br />
Ubud is the main destination, and most resorts here come with<br />
a rainforest or paddy field view. You can take walks to waterfalls<br />
or the famed Tegalalang Rice Terrace, which feels like strolling<br />
through a painting! Why not meet some friendly and cheeky grey<br />
long-tailed macaques at the nature reserve of Ubud Monkey<br />
Forest? We also recommend you take a half day tour of Green<br />
Village, where you’ll find bamboo houses in a tranquil setting.<br />
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South Bali<br />
South Bali is all about the beaches! If you're travelling with your<br />
family, then you’ll particularly appreciate the safe waters for<br />
swimming and plenty of water activities for your teenagers.<br />
NUSA DUA<br />
On the far southeast of the island, Nusa Dua has the reputation<br />
for holding the most luxurious and chic beach resorts, which is just<br />
as well as it also has some of the most beautiful beaches. Spend<br />
sun-kissed days on the beach, play a round of golf on one of the<br />
professional courses, or visit an artist’s studio.<br />
SANUR<br />
On the southeast coast lies Sanur, home to a pristine stretch of beach<br />
and a large coral reef. A smattering of authentic resorts caress the<br />
golden sands, and it’s another ideal spot for watersports. If you fancy<br />
a day out, head to Big Garden Corner, an intriguing statue park.<br />
Sanur is also home to the renowned Sindhu Market. By day, it’s<br />
a typical fresh market with stalls selling fresh vegetables and<br />
household goods, but by night it’s teeming with street food, spices,<br />
and souvenirs.<br />
SEMINYAK<br />
On the southwest of Bali, Seminyak is the perfect choice if you’re<br />
looking for a beach holiday with plenty of nightlife, as you’ll<br />
find some really cool beach clubs nestled in among the palms.<br />
There are many family-friendly resorts here, boasting swimming<br />
pools and kids’ clubs. Also near to Seminyak lies Waterbom Bali,<br />
one of Asia’s best waterparks for a splash-filled day! If you fancy<br />
going shopping, this is also the place to be, as there are plenty of<br />
boutiques, malls, and markets.<br />
BEAT THE JETLAG!<br />
It takes around 17 hours to fly to Bali, but we<br />
promise you that it’s really worth the distance.<br />
To beat the jetlag, make sure you adjust to the new time<br />
zone quickly. Sleep on the plane as much as you can.<br />
Most flights arrive in the early to mid-afternoon so you may<br />
feel weary and be tempted to nap. Instead, relax with a<br />
refreshing swim or dip, and opt for an early night.<br />
The mix of a long haul flight and heat can dehydrate you,<br />
so make sure you drink plenty of water between your<br />
holiday cocktails!<br />
To prevent trouble sleeping, avoid coffee after midday,<br />
and be sure to load your afternoons with magnesium-rich<br />
foods like nuts and seeds, or use a magnesium body spray<br />
or bath salts to help you relax at night.<br />
Stay comfortable in your new sleeping environment by<br />
keeping your room cool, and bring an eye mask and ear<br />
plugs. If you wake up in the middle of the night, avoid<br />
scrolling your devices - instead use white noise to help<br />
you drift off. Repeat this same routine for your return to<br />
the UK!<br />
Are you thinking about a winter escape to Bali?<br />
Speak to one of our Personal Travel Planners on 01293 765004 who are on hand to answer all your questions!<br />
<strong>Autumn</strong> <strong>2022</strong><br />
so Journ
ADVERTORIAL<br />
Life by the River<br />
WITH THE SAMAYA UBUD<br />
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to<br />
live in a different corner of the world? Well, with a<br />
stay at boutique hotel, The Samaya Ubud, you get<br />
to experience the tranquility of Balinese village life!<br />
Located right along River Ayung, The Samaya Ubud is hidden<br />
among the foliage, and even before you reach your room, you’ll feel<br />
like you’ve stepped into a storybook, as you’re welcomed with lush<br />
paddy fields and tropical gardens.<br />
We’d recommend staying in a luxurious Ayung Villa - an utterly<br />
restful sanctuary located away from the main building and right by<br />
the river’s flowing waters. The villa’s contemporary style brings with<br />
it a touch of Balinese design - rich wood, clean lines, and grand<br />
stonework - to always remind you of your exotic location.<br />
After breakfast, which you have the freedom to take wherever you<br />
wish, you can spend your days soaking up the sun in your large and<br />
furnished outdoor space, occasionally dipping into your private lap<br />
pool, as you read a book or simply daydream. Green hills are your<br />
verdant backdrop.<br />
If you feel like stepping out, you can enjoy complimentary guided<br />
morning nature treks, as well as afternoon yoga and cycling, before<br />
retreating back for your daily afternoon tea. Unwind even further<br />
with blissful Balinese rituals in the spa.<br />
To make your holiday that more sublime, your villa comes with a<br />
team of butlers for swift personal service, day and night.<br />
After sunset, it’s not unusual to see fireflies<br />
lighting up the dark skies.<br />
When you’re feeling peckish, wander over to the hotel’s iconic and<br />
award-winning Swept Away restaurant for a romantic candlelit<br />
dinner for two, which is located right on the riverbank. You can enjoy<br />
the kick of fragrant Indonesian spices in local dishes, or tuck into<br />
international cuisines, all of which celebrate fresh and local produce.<br />
For a bewitching experience to remember, choose one of the 100<br />
Candle Dinners, where you can feast on a six or seven course tasting<br />
menu at the skilled hands of the resort’s executive chef, with courses<br />
paired with premium wines. To amp up the romance, you’ll be in a<br />
secluded spot surrounded by 100 glowing candles and flower petals.<br />
Are you dreaming? You'll have to pinch yourself to be sure...<br />
A 7 night holiday at The Samaya Ubud starts from £2,049 per person.<br />
Speak to one of our Personal Travel Planners on 01293 765004<br />
28 <strong>Sovereign</strong>.com
ADVERTORIAL<br />
A Hidden Gem<br />
WITH THE PAVILIONS BALI, SANUR<br />
Away from the throng of Bali’s backpacking nightlife,<br />
the charming little fishing village Sanur offers a timeless<br />
and peaceful welcome into laid-back island life.<br />
Go for a jalan-jalan (walk) along the<br />
golden beach, with a promenade that<br />
stretches over three miles. Here, you can<br />
always get a good cup of coffee, with its<br />
many cafés, restaurants, and bars dotted<br />
along the main road.<br />
If you’re looking for pure heaven on earth<br />
then you only need to head down the<br />
bamboo walkway into The Pavilions Bali to<br />
find your idyllic tropical haven.<br />
Just a stone’s throw from the beach, with a<br />
short walk or shuttle ride, this luxurious villa<br />
resort is sublimely romantic, and provides<br />
an intimate ‘away from it all’ atmosphere for<br />
couples of all ages.<br />
Hide away in your own newly renovated,<br />
self-contained villa, infused with local<br />
design and traditional Balinese artefacts.<br />
You can easily flit between your airy<br />
indoor and outdoor living spaces as the<br />
day goes on.<br />
This is personalised service at<br />
its finest. Tuck into an à la carte<br />
la carte breakfast in your villa<br />
each morning, and receive little<br />
gifts during the nightly turndown<br />
service. The staff will also<br />
arrange special requests and<br />
tailor-made experiences.<br />
You might be looking to enjoy a Balinese<br />
cooking class, or book a natural wellness<br />
ritual in The Pavilions Spa, where the team<br />
lovingly create their own organic masks,<br />
facials, and scrubs.<br />
For dinner, tuck into local specialties<br />
and international favourites at Jahe, the<br />
resort’s own secret garden restaurant,<br />
where candlelit gazebos are scattered<br />
throughout this natural oasis.<br />
If you feel like sharing your holiday with<br />
friends or family, then the two bedroom<br />
pool villas offer a wonderful base for you<br />
to get together.<br />
If you can tear yourself away from your<br />
little slice of heaven, then we suggest you<br />
get up early for a stroll to Sanur Beach,<br />
known as the ‘Morning of the World',<br />
where you you can breathe in the most<br />
spectacular sunrises. You can also enjoy<br />
several off-the-beaten-track day trips,<br />
including the resort's signature private<br />
island tour where you can explore Bali's<br />
many cultural and natural wonders.<br />
Make the most of your luxurious Bali holiday<br />
with The Pavilions app, which provides<br />
useful, up-to-date local information and<br />
a direct connection to the team.<br />
This is the Bali getaway<br />
you’ve always dreamed of.<br />
A 7 night holiday at The Pavilions Bali in Sanur starts from £1,579 per person.<br />
Speak to one of our Personal Travel Planners on 01293 765004<br />
<strong>Autumn</strong> <strong>2022</strong><br />
so Journ
Memories in<br />
FUERTEVENTURA<br />
Have you ever wondered where our expert team go on holiday?<br />
Karen Noble, our Regional Destination Manager, shares her memories<br />
of her recent <strong>Sovereign</strong> Luxury Travel holiday to Fuerteventura.<br />
Over a decade ago, I travelled to Lake Como with my mum. We had the most<br />
amazing time together, just the two of us. We always said we would do it<br />
again but then suddenly 10 years had passed and we’d never quite managed<br />
to make it. During lockdown, we both celebrated special birthdays and during<br />
one particular phone call we promised one another we would go away<br />
together again, so that’s how our holiday plan began.<br />
I’m fortunate enough to frequently travel through work and so have a good<br />
sense of what accommodation and destination suits a particular type of<br />
holiday. When I travel with work I hop around - two nights here, two nights<br />
there - but on this trip I really wanted to relax and not do very much. As my<br />
mum is retired she probably would have preferred to have been a bit more<br />
active and busy, but we managed to find a good balance.<br />
Usually, I alternate between a resort day and an exploring day, but for this<br />
trip I was looking to simply unwind. Fuerteventura was perfect for this.<br />
For all my many travels to the Canary Islands over the years, I’d never<br />
personally been to Fuerteventura, but had always seen and admired the<br />
distinctive sand dunes from across the sea while in Playa Blanca in Lanzarote.<br />
Whoever you travel with, I think it’s vital that before you book<br />
you agree on the purpose of the holiday and discuss what’s<br />
important so that you can identify the right place. We would never<br />
have achieved the level of relaxation we enjoyed in Fuerteventura<br />
if we had chosen a city break.<br />
Secrets Bahía Real Resort & Spa was ideally located as it was situated right<br />
between the dunes and the town of Corralejo, so we could easily walk<br />
around on our own time schedule, without having to hire a car or arrange any<br />
transfers.<br />
If, however, you did want to venture further afield, there are plenty of regular<br />
ferries that take you across to Lanzarote for the day. It’s worth it as despite<br />
being so close together geographically, the islands are such a contrast.<br />
One of the main reasons we chose Secrets Bahía Real Resort & Spa was that<br />
it’s an adults-only resort, but not necessarily only for couples.<br />
When we were visiting we found small groups of women holidaying together<br />
and a group of older gentlemen enjoying windsurfing activities. It was also<br />
all-inclusive, which meant we could enjoy a luxury experience without having<br />
to worry about added costs and extras at the hotel while we were away. It just<br />
made it really hassle-free.<br />
The resort has two swimming pools, one of which is heated, and one of<br />
the highlights for both of us was the swimming pool situated in the massive<br />
internal courtyard, protected from the wind. The staff were so attentive that it<br />
felt like we were in our own little luxurious bubble.<br />
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The staff were never intrusive, but they were always available - just<br />
watching for our heads to pop up from the lounger - and great at<br />
anticipating our needs.<br />
My mum and I are great travel companions. The whole holiday was<br />
really easygoing and at no point did we worry about one another<br />
being bored or doing too much.<br />
I think our biggest difference is that because I’m so used to short travels,<br />
I didn’t unpack my bag, whereas mum completely emptied her suitcase<br />
and hung and put everything away. My mum had a Mary Poppins bag<br />
with everything you can imagine in it, even a first aid kit, so if I needed<br />
anything, she was sure to have it!<br />
The hotel was really lovely to us. Mum would leave little notes for<br />
housekeeping asking for fresh milk for her cuppa and they’d always<br />
deliver and then some. They always arranged our nighties beautifully<br />
on our beds, which was a real step up from the usual towel art swans!<br />
Like everyone does, we fell into a little holiday routine. We made a point<br />
of always having our lunch in the poolside restaurant and not on our<br />
sun loungers. In the evening, on our way back to the room, we always<br />
called into the bar located on the second floor for a cocktail, which has<br />
panoramic views across the sea, with Lanzarote in the distance.<br />
Outside the resort, we walked everywhere, and made a point of<br />
wandering into Corralejo at different times of the day. The older part<br />
of Corralejo was further to walk but absolutely worth it. In the evening<br />
we often stumbled across squares filled with live music and dancing,<br />
which felt like being part of a flashmob!<br />
In the newer area of town there are plenty of bars to enjoy, and<br />
restaurants along the beach. It is really great for shopping, and<br />
we both picked up some brilliant pieces of clothing that were more<br />
unusual to what you find at home. We were always really welcomed by<br />
the local people, and never felt old or past it! We also felt safe as two<br />
women travelling together.<br />
The highlight of Fuerteventura were the dunes,<br />
which totally lived up to my expectations.<br />
They are otherworldly, almost white in colour<br />
and it’s hard to believe they are natural, given how<br />
concentrated they are. Where the dunes finish<br />
it feels so abrupt as the landscape<br />
becomes completely barren.<br />
Fuerteventura is a very windy destination, which is why it’s so ideal<br />
for watersports. What I wasn’t expecting to find on the beach were<br />
hundreds of circular manmade windbreakers, created out of black<br />
volcanic rocks, contrasting beautifully with the golden sand. At the<br />
weekend, local families rush to get one and congregate, creating little<br />
camps for their beach gear and themselves, as they take shelter from<br />
the wind. I’ve never seen anything like it anywhere in the world!<br />
One memory that will always stay with me is mum and I sitting on the<br />
dunes watching the amazing windsurfers and kitesurfers, enjoying<br />
our companionship without feeling the need to talk. That simple<br />
appreciation of one another and our new horizon - isn’t this what<br />
holidays are all about?<br />
A 7 night holiday in Fuerteventura, staying at Secrets Bahía Real Resort & Spa, starts from £1,059 per person.<br />
Speak to one of our Personal Travel Planners on 01293 765004<br />
<strong>Autumn</strong> <strong>2022</strong><br />
so Journ
Getaways<br />
Idyllic Greek<br />
Peek into a dreamy world of ultra-chic stays with our pick of the best<br />
Greek Getaways this season. The only thing missing is you!<br />
CORFU<br />
Enjoy your adults-only getaway at the sublime Domes Miramare, the quintessential<br />
picture of Greek chic with its 100 year-old olive trees and private beach.<br />
KOS<br />
Cradle golden sands in the classy boho beach retreat of Ikos Aria, where<br />
everything is included - haute and local cuisine, drinks, and activities.<br />
MYKONOS<br />
Dream away the days in your dazzling whitewashed haven of Mykonos Grand Hotel &<br />
Resort, where every turn has a view, from the sacred island of Delos to tempting pools.<br />
PARGA<br />
Escape to a uniquely Greek experience at MarBella Elix, high up in pine-forested hills<br />
and where inspired family days and breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea await you.<br />
ZAKYNTHOS<br />
Experience a romantic and utterly relaxing getaway at the adults-only Zante Maris Suites,<br />
which oozes intimacy, elegance, and a gourmet taste of the Mediterranean.<br />
HALKIDIKI<br />
You and your family can unwind in style, as you dive into your own private plunge pool at<br />
Eagles Villas. Spend leisurely beach days and fun-filled activities with a Greek twist.<br />
MarBella Elix<br />
32 <strong>Sovereign</strong>.com
Domes Miramare<br />
Ikos Aria<br />
Mykonos Grand Hotel & Resort<br />
MarBella Elix<br />
Zante Maris Suites<br />
Eagles Villas<br />
<strong>Autumn</strong> <strong>2022</strong><br />
so Journ
Algarve<br />
A FLOURISHING<br />
WINE REGION<br />
You may know Portugal’s Algarve region as the idyllic beach<br />
destination for year-round sunshine with its sensational coastline,<br />
picture-perfect golf courses, and golden sands tipping out into<br />
deep blue waters. But have you heard about its rising vineyards?<br />
Come, grab a glass with us.<br />
Portugal’s viniculture history stems as far back as 2000 B.C., when the<br />
first vines were planted. The conditions were perfect: a fertile terroir,<br />
temperate climate, and of course, the sunshine that the grapes could<br />
soak up.<br />
The ancient Romans, Greeks, and Celts all contributed to the country’s<br />
historic winemaking, but it was only in the 18th century that it became<br />
eponymous with port, aided by the British’s profound taste for madeira,<br />
the fortified wine that can be kept for hundreds of years.<br />
WINEMAKING TRADITIONS<br />
Vinho Verde and Douro are two of the few places in the world where<br />
grapes are still pressed by foot. Here, you’ll find full-bodied reds, much<br />
like a cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc, from the fine grapes of<br />
touriga macional and the touriga francesa, and the varieties of tinta<br />
roriz, tinta cão, and tinta barroca.<br />
This northwest region had the stronghold on Portugal’s winemaking<br />
traditions for centuries, but that’s now changing.<br />
A deep appreciation for traditional winemaking has reached Portugal’s<br />
southernmost region in the last fifty years, and there’s been increased<br />
investment in wine technology and wineries in the Algarve.<br />
SHAPED BY THE ELEMENTS<br />
The Algarve’s wine scene predominantly used to be in the sandy, clay<br />
soils along the coast, but today you’ll see an increasing number of<br />
vineyards in the area known as the barrocal, between the coast and<br />
the rugged uplands, where the soil quality is superior.<br />
The cooling breeze of the Atlantic Ocean freshens<br />
the vineyards, while lower temperatures here<br />
delay the maturation of the grapes, which reduces<br />
the wine’s acidity. Winemakers safeguard the<br />
grapes from the sun’s radiant rays by creating<br />
canopies from the vine’s own leaves.<br />
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Today’s industry revolves around four main wine-producing areas:<br />
Lagos, Portimão, Lagoa, and Tavira, and wines from here are usually<br />
of low acidity. They receive a quality and distinction certification called<br />
Designated Origin (DO), and you can find these wines labelled with the<br />
Geographical Indication (GI), Algarve Regional.<br />
There are now over 2,000 vineyards within the Algarve, and over 30<br />
producers. You can enjoy vineyard tours and wine-tasting experiences<br />
at a number of family-run wineries and, if you’re keen to be around for<br />
the harvest, then we suggest you plan your visit anytime from late July to<br />
early September.<br />
A SMOOTH SIP<br />
There’s been a renewed focus on distinctive taste and character, which<br />
are delivered by premium and native grape varieties, such as negra<br />
mole, castelão and trincadeira that serve up smooth, red wines with a<br />
fruity aroma, and the arinto, síria and malvasia fina grapes, which in<br />
turn deliver delicate and mellow white wines. You’ll also find incredible<br />
rosé wines, particularly from the castelão and touriga franca varieties.<br />
In recent years, it’s been common to find late-harvest and sparkling<br />
wines too.<br />
The Algarve wine trail takes you to both the newest and award-winning<br />
wineries, all amid beautiful coastal landscapes.<br />
There’s no better place for a visit than Quinta dos Vales, one of the<br />
most prized and awarded wineries in the Algarve, with its main brands<br />
Marquês dos Vale and DIALOG. The whites are epic, and<br />
the wine cellars and artistic landscaped gardens are definitely<br />
worth exploring! Its passion has helped it win the Best Wine in Portugal:<br />
Algarve award in recent years.<br />
You can also visit Adega do Cantor,<br />
the ‘winery of the singer’, named so because<br />
it’s owned by Cliff Richards!<br />
Other notable wineries that offer tours include: Herdade Barranco do<br />
Vale, family-owned Quinta da Vinha (with their brand Cabrita Wines),<br />
and Quinta De Matas-Mouros, which is situated in a<br />
former convent.<br />
While the Algarve wine scene has reawakened, incredibly, many of<br />
these award-winning wines are still only sold on the local market.<br />
Naturally, a <strong>Sovereign</strong> Luxury Travel holiday is the perfect opportunity to<br />
enjoy them at source - and it’s the ideal time to grab yourself a few great<br />
value bottles before they enter the global limelight!<br />
A 7 night holiday in the Algarve, staying at Pine Cliffs Ocean Suites, starts from £775 per person.<br />
Speak to one of our Personal Travel Planners on 01293 765004<br />
<strong>Autumn</strong> <strong>2022</strong><br />
so Journ
Weird & Wonderful<br />
UNDERWATER WORLDS<br />
Join us for some of the world’s most incredible underwater experiences.<br />
Much like exploring outer space, there’s still<br />
so much we don’t know about our underwater<br />
worlds and the phenomena found there.<br />
What better way to embrace the unique and<br />
magical beauty of the lifeblood of our planet<br />
than during your next holiday with us?<br />
The actual number of<br />
marine species is unknown,<br />
as scientist-explorers state that<br />
over 80 percent of our ocean is<br />
still to be mapped and explored.<br />
UNDERWATER DREAMS<br />
DUBAI<br />
While not natural, we adore the ease of<br />
how close you can get to various marine<br />
species in The Lost Chambers Aquarium at<br />
Dubai’s iconic Atlantis, The Palm. It’s a safe<br />
way for all the family to discover mysteries<br />
of the deep and come eye-to-eye with<br />
sharks, rays, moray eels, and clown fish<br />
in the many exhibit halls and massive 11<br />
million litre Ambassador Lagoon.<br />
You can go on an exclusive behind-thescenes<br />
tour to discover how the staff take<br />
care of the creatures, and all the family<br />
can have the chance to enjoy dive and<br />
snorkel discoveries.<br />
For that special occasion, why not stay<br />
in one of Atlantis Sanya’s Underwater<br />
Suites, where you can enjoy floor-to-ceiling<br />
views as you slumber? There’s something<br />
surprisingly blissful watching vibrant<br />
schools of fish swim by.<br />
SUGGESTED STAY<br />
ATLANTIS, THE PALM<br />
BIOLUMINESCENCE BEACHES<br />
MALDIVES<br />
Imagine lying on the beach, watching as<br />
the waves crash against the shore and<br />
sparkle with a thousand tiny lights. Now,<br />
imagine being able to swim in those waters,<br />
surrounded by a shimmering blue glow.<br />
Bioluminescence occurs when microscopic<br />
organisms in the water emit light, when<br />
they are touched by a swimming fish or<br />
stirred up by the waves. When you visit<br />
the Maldives, this can become a reality,<br />
as it’s one of the best places in the world<br />
for this phenomenon.<br />
The best time to see bioluminescence is at<br />
night during a full moon, when the water<br />
is calm and the sky is clear, and it’s most<br />
active during warm summer months. You’ll<br />
feel like you’re immersed in a fairy tale, and<br />
it’s sure to leave you feeling enchanted.<br />
SUGGESTED STAY<br />
ATMOSPHERE KANIFUSHI<br />
TROU D’EAU DOUCE<br />
MAURITIUS<br />
On the eastern coast of Mauritius lies Trou<br />
d’Eau Douce, a tranquil bay in an azure<br />
lagoon where catamarans and fishing boats<br />
bob in the luminous waters of the Indian<br />
Ocean. It’s one of our most idyllic places to<br />
go snorkelling, sea walking - yes walking<br />
right on the seabed next to marine life - or<br />
enjoy more adrenaline-fuelled tube riding.<br />
For a magical day trip that also celebrates<br />
the waters, take a catamaran cruise to the<br />
neighbouring island of Île aux Cerf.<br />
SUGGESTED STAY<br />
SHANGRI-LA LE TOUSSEROK<br />
36 <strong>Sovereign</strong>.com
UNDERWATER SCULPTURE PARKS<br />
GRENADA, LANZAROTE, CANCUN<br />
Did you know that there are underwater sculpture parks that you<br />
can visit? British sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor is responsible for<br />
several impressive and award-winning living marine museums.<br />
Jason’s incredible underwater art installations first began back<br />
in 2006 while he was out in Grenada teaching diving. With great<br />
support from local marine biologists, diving centres, and the<br />
government, he self-funded and developed Molinere Underwater<br />
Sculpture Park to not only tell local stories but protect the reefs.<br />
“Grenada was an incredible place to work, with its underwater<br />
ravines, drop off area, and beautifully clear water. A hurricane<br />
had damaged the natural reefs, and only a few were left that were<br />
intact and pristine, which were being heavily impacted by tourism.”<br />
“My idea was to build something in one of the completely<br />
decimated bays to draw people away from an already fragile<br />
area. What actually happened surprised me. Within 45 months, the<br />
sculptures developed their own corals and beautiful pink sponges,<br />
and fish began congregating around them.”<br />
Since then, Jason has gone on to create more sculpture parks that<br />
have become important habitats for marine life. His sculptures<br />
address specific themes, and he casts people in his sculptures who<br />
are from all walks of life, such as local fishermen and migrants.<br />
“Each design needs to be different, so that it can address the<br />
destination’s own unique challenges, whether that’s overfishing<br />
or the impact of tourism. I always try to adapt ideas to the local<br />
community and found that one of the ways of celebrating the<br />
projects was to call them museums. We then begin to change the<br />
way we look at underwater worlds.”<br />
Closer to home is Museo Atlántico in Lanzarote, which is very<br />
different because of its Atlantic Ocean location, as Jason explains.<br />
“Because they weren’t tropical waters I thought the sculptures<br />
would never develop so I changed the design to reflect that, but<br />
the opposite happened - a far greater marine biomass and species<br />
were attracted to the installation than in the Caribbean. I’m always<br />
surprised to see the species that live in and around the sculptures -<br />
lobster, octopus, and huge schools of fish, as well as angel sharks.”<br />
With over 400,000 people visiting the marine park in Cancun,<br />
Jason’s goal was to make it a more sustainable experience with<br />
Museo Subacuático de Arte (MUSA).<br />
“I wish I could say I was some sort of genius coral<br />
gardener but, if I’m honest, the transformations<br />
of the installations over time are nothing like how<br />
I imagined them to be. In one visit you might find<br />
the coral black and sludgy or bleached, but then<br />
two months later it's completely replaced with<br />
green algae and pink sponge - it’s constantly<br />
evolving on a weekly basis!”<br />
Jason deCaires Taylor<br />
You can easily snorkel to the sites in Cancun and Grenada as these<br />
are just four metres deep, while Lanzarote, at 12 metres deep, is<br />
best experienced diving.<br />
“Snorkelling or diving with an accredited guide makes a big<br />
difference as they really explain the sculptures and marine life,<br />
and impart a lot of knowledge,” adds Jason.<br />
Visiting any of these underwater sculpture parks is an unforgettable<br />
experience that will leave you feeling exhilarated and amazed.<br />
SUGGESTED STAYS<br />
CALABASH LUXURY BOUTIQUE HOTEL, GRENADA<br />
HOTEL FARIONES, LANZAROTE<br />
VALENTIN IMPERIAL RIVIERA MAYA, MEXICO<br />
Which underwater world would you like to discover?<br />
Speak to one of our Personal Travel Planners on 01293 765004<br />
<strong>Autumn</strong> <strong>2022</strong><br />
so Journ
ADVERTORIAL<br />
Dream,Feast,Relax<br />
WITH GRAND PARK HOTEL ROVINJ<br />
The secret to a Croatian holiday? Finding a haven where you’ve got the perfect balance<br />
to dream, feast, and relax. Meet Grand Park Hotel Rovinj, a minimalist’s delight!<br />
Venture into Rovinj, Croatia’s top destination, and you may need to<br />
pinch yourself. Right on the coast of the Istrian peninsula, this bustling<br />
port town is teeming with history, where fine Venetian architecture<br />
meets the dazzle of the Mediterranean with its untouched nature,<br />
climate, and brilliant blue of the Adriatic Sea.<br />
Sometimes, you may prefer to slow down the pace and, instead of<br />
going exploring around Rovinj, take a breather and unwind in your<br />
own inspiring home-from-home surroundings. This is the holiday life -<br />
this is Grand Park Hotel Rovinj.<br />
Lungomare Plaza<br />
DREAM<br />
For the ultimate dreamy view over the Old Town of Rovinj, taking<br />
in the elegant St. Euphemia Church and Katerina Island, you need<br />
to stay at the five-star and relatively new Grand Park Hotel Rovinj,<br />
which is positioned right across the bay. With an abundance of huge<br />
windows and natural light, you have a breathtaking sight to wake up<br />
to as the water twinkles in the sunshine.<br />
“The entrance at the Grand Park Hotel Rovinj is exceptional - you’ll<br />
find yourself having a jaw-dropping moment as you walk into<br />
the lobby to check in,” shares Ben Stratton, Regional Destination<br />
Manager at <strong>Sovereign</strong> Luxury Travel. “The elevated position of the<br />
chic reception area frames the beautiful Old Town perfectly, and the<br />
service is so warm and welcoming.”<br />
“The hotel’s minimalist architecture and ambience is just as<br />
remarkable, with its airy and bright cascading structure over six<br />
floors. This opens out to a pretty promenade at the front of the hotel,<br />
the Lungomare Plaza, where you’ll find small and upscale boutiques<br />
and bars. The promenade is really flat and incredibly clean, and<br />
makes it really pleasant for walking around the bays and into the<br />
Old Town,” adds Ben. “The proximity to the Old Town is fantastic -<br />
just a 10 minute walk and you’re in its heart.”<br />
The back of the hotel is gloriously fringed by forest, which is why<br />
each corridor is named after native plants, but this natural aura<br />
doesn’t stop there, as Ben reveals.<br />
“All the rooftops have natural cover so you have<br />
a very pretty view of fauna as you look out from<br />
your balcony. The picturesque views from the room<br />
and from the amazing infinity pool are spectacular.”<br />
Ben Stratton,<br />
Regional Destination Manager at <strong>Sovereign</strong> Luxury Travel<br />
There’s an artistic touch to the Grand Park that guests are welcome<br />
to tap into. When you arrive you’re given a leatherbound notebook<br />
and an instant camera, where you are invited to create and<br />
chronicle memories of your stay.<br />
38 <strong>Sovereign</strong>.com
Albaro Wellness&Spa<br />
FEAST<br />
You’re spoilt for choice with every fine culinary whim at the Grand<br />
Park, with six restaurants and bars. The signature restaurant is<br />
Cap Aureo, which is known as a vegetable-loving space, where<br />
fresh ingredients tell the stories of the land and sea on your plate.<br />
Then there’s the highly accoladed Agli Amici Rovinj restaurant, which<br />
was awarded a Michelin star in its first year of opening. Situated in<br />
the heart of the marina, this is gourmet cuisine at its finest, with three<br />
tasting menus that evoke sustainability, passion, and exploration that<br />
speak the languages of Istria and Friuli Venezia Giulia.<br />
Or, for a more casual meal, you can taste the Istrian traditions at the<br />
all-day dining restaurant, Laurel&Berry, before heading to Katarina’s<br />
Patisserie for an espresso and dessert or homemade ice cream, a<br />
few floors below. Plus, you’ve got Viva Eufemia Bar on the fifth floor,<br />
and the Cissa pool lounge right on the top of the hotel.<br />
RELAX<br />
Even a cultural holiday in a destination as interesting as Rovinj<br />
deserves some downtime. That’s where Grand Park’s crowning glory<br />
comes into play!<br />
Albaro Wellness&Spa is one of the most modern and best hotel spas<br />
you can find and, located across the top two floors, it certainly is the<br />
biggest of its kind in Istria.<br />
You’ll find both indoor and outdoor areas and swimming pools that<br />
boast impeccable views over the marina and Old Town. There’s a<br />
classic Roman thermal circuit to embrace, with three saunas, two<br />
steam rooms, two cold plunge pools and a shower paradise. But<br />
where the spa really comes into its own is the unique spa therapies<br />
that reveal the traditional secrets of Istrian wellness.<br />
“The gastronomy experience I had at the hotel<br />
was really fantastic, and I ate at the all-day dining<br />
restaurant, so I can only imagine how great their<br />
Michelin-starred restaurant is”, adds Ben.<br />
Unwind with treatments that honour local flora and<br />
healing herbs steeped in liqueur, locally-harvested<br />
seaweed, sea salt and mineral rich marine muds,<br />
and the first press of local olives.<br />
The spa’s signature therapy is the Batana bodywork, which has been<br />
inspired by the local Istrian spirit, rajika, where you’ll be enrobed in<br />
divine coastal smells.<br />
Laurel&Berry<br />
Dream, Feast, Relax is the ultimate Rovinj routine. The only thing<br />
missing is Repeat!<br />
A 7 night holiday, staying at Grand Park Hotel Rovinj in Croatia starts from £1,145 per person.<br />
Speak to one of our Personal Travel Planners on 01293 765004<br />
<strong>Autumn</strong> <strong>2022</strong><br />
so Journ
A Family<br />
Escape<br />
TO THE MALDIVES<br />
<strong>Sovereign</strong> Luxury Travel guest, Nasima Dunne, enjoyed a 10 night holiday<br />
in the Maldives, staying at the all-inclusive resort, OBLU Select Sangeli,<br />
with her 12 year old daughter and husband. Here’s her story.<br />
I first came across <strong>Sovereign</strong> Luxury Travel…<br />
When looking for a holiday to Sani Beach in<br />
Halkidiki about eight years ago. They had<br />
the best package available for where we<br />
specifically wanted to go. What impressed<br />
me most then, and since, was the amazing<br />
customer service you receive at every stage<br />
of the process.<br />
We travelled with my teenage daughter…<br />
She had a lovely time, but there weren’t<br />
many children there her age or many<br />
activities geared at older children. That<br />
said we made the most of the snorkelling,<br />
paddle boards, and kayaks - she loved<br />
all that!<br />
The quality of the destinations I<br />
know will always be outstanding,<br />
but it's the other little details that<br />
make it so easy to travel with<br />
<strong>Sovereign</strong> Luxury Travel.<br />
The Personal Travel Planners ensure your<br />
every desire is catered for, and keep in<br />
touch with you in the run up to your holiday<br />
to make sure all is still on track. This time,<br />
when travelling for the first time since covid,<br />
their travel advice was brilliant, we felt<br />
very reassured.<br />
I’d describe my travel style as…<br />
Luxury explorers if there is such a thing.<br />
We’re a family of three so we need to<br />
make sure we’re all catered for in the<br />
destinations and properties we stay in. If<br />
we travel somewhere popular we like to<br />
stay somewhere different and a bit off-thebeaten<br />
track, where the service is amazing<br />
but you get to experience the local culture.<br />
I wanted to go to the Maldives because…<br />
It’s one of those bucket list destinations<br />
and this year my husband turned 50, so<br />
we thought why not! We’ve shied away<br />
from it previously as the thought of being<br />
on one island for so long and being hotel<br />
bound didn’t really appeal. But lockdown<br />
and needing to totally switch off from work<br />
changed that this year.<br />
Staying at OBLU Select Sangeli was…<br />
Lovely and perfect for what we needed.<br />
I’m sure there are many luxury resorts in the<br />
Maldives but this place worked for us. The<br />
vibe was very chilled without being snobby.<br />
It was ideal for the family, and we could do<br />
as much or as little as we wanted to do.<br />
I really appreciated how the staff made a<br />
fuss for my hubby’s 50th birthday, with cakes<br />
and flowers in the room when we arrived,<br />
flower art on the bed, and a beachside table<br />
for dinner. These were all lovely touches.<br />
The water villa was fantastic and<br />
exactly what we imagined. To be able<br />
to look out on the sea uninterrupted<br />
was bliss. We loved the novelty of<br />
being able to snorkel off the back of<br />
the villa and, within a few minutes, we<br />
were over an amazing house reef with<br />
a great array of colourful fish.<br />
Some of our fondest memories include…<br />
• The food - so much choice and<br />
really fresh<br />
• Crab racing on the beach, which was<br />
great fun<br />
• Tuna on the surf - a great sunset<br />
cocktails and canapés event with<br />
a twist<br />
• A massage at the spa - amazing!<br />
• Spotting baby sharks on the pontoon<br />
near our villa<br />
40 <strong>Sovereign</strong>.com
GUEST STORY<br />
You can eat pretty much anything here but<br />
we tried lots of different things…<br />
What amazed me was the variety of fruit and<br />
veg available given you’re on an island in the<br />
middle of nowhere! Our favourites included:<br />
• Fresh salad made especially for us<br />
at the salad bar every lunchtime<br />
• Breakfast dosas - give them a try<br />
as they’re a revelation<br />
• Curries - WOW, I could have eaten<br />
these daily! The naan chef at the<br />
tandoor oven deserves a shout out<br />
• The fried reef fish - so fresh<br />
• The sushi - again really fresh!<br />
There’s a lot of positives about the OBLU…<br />
But the thing that makes it, without a doubt, are the staff - and it’s this<br />
reason I would highly recommend OBLU Select Sangeli to anyone<br />
looking for a family holiday in the Maldives.<br />
The team are all amazing and work very hard. Many of them are<br />
thousands of miles away from home and work really long hours, day<br />
in, day out. When you show interest and appreciation for what they<br />
do they welcome it so much! I suggest other guests spend more time<br />
getting to know them, and you'll be rewarded with the biggest smiles<br />
and even better service.<br />
A 7 night holiday at OBLU Select Sangeli starts from £3,099 per person.<br />
Speak to one of our Personal Travel Planners on 01293 765004<br />
<strong>Autumn</strong> <strong>2022</strong><br />
so Journ
THE REAL<br />
Pirates of the<br />
Caribbean<br />
Yo ho, yo ho! A pirate's life for me. We look beyond the veneer of the big screen<br />
and discover what swashbuckling really went down in Antigua and Barbados.<br />
42 <strong>Sovereign</strong>.com
Despite their unsavoury nature and penchant for lawbreaking,<br />
there’s a certain allure about pirates. They’ve<br />
been romanticised in literature and film for centuries,<br />
feeding our imagination for freedom and wild adventures,<br />
and a smattering of roguery for good measure.<br />
Piracy became popular as stealing was a much easier way<br />
to make a living. Young swashbucklers opted for a violent,<br />
shorter existence with wealth than of a life of struggle and<br />
no control. Then there was the pirate code: in spite of all<br />
their debauchery and abominable behaviour their society<br />
was bound by honour, loyalty, democratic decision-making,<br />
and egalitarianism.<br />
This is why many slaves from the plantations and young<br />
crew members on the merchant ships that the pirates<br />
targeted so easily switched sides.<br />
The expression ‘Motley Crew’ sums up the myriad of illfitting,<br />
mismatched clothes that pirates wore out of need.<br />
The skull caps and cocked hats that 17th and 18th century<br />
pirates wore were integral protection from the beating<br />
Caribbean sun.<br />
Easier than sourcing drinking water at sea, pirates<br />
adored rum. It made the limited diets more palatable,<br />
and the shanty songs more joyful during the many<br />
arduous sea journeys.<br />
While storybook pictures regale us with images<br />
of gold coins and gem-filled treasure chests,<br />
the actual prize was high-valued traded<br />
commodities. In the Caribbean that was<br />
sugar and, surprise, surprise, rum!<br />
Pirates always sought out bases whether they could<br />
harbour safely and get access to fresh water, wood and<br />
food, without being disturbed by the authorities. In the<br />
17th century, the Lesser Antille islands in the Caribbean -<br />
including Antigua and Barbados - were an ideal place. The<br />
pirates could clean their ships on the sandy beaches, and<br />
glean from the colonial settlers.<br />
Why not step back in time with a visit to Antigua’s only<br />
antique shop and find your own treasure? The aptly-named<br />
The Posh Pirate in Liberta, just up from the English Harbour,<br />
is teeming with historical curiosities.<br />
There were two notorious island buccaneers in Barbados.<br />
In the 17th century, the wealthy Barbadian Stede Bonnet<br />
unusually kicked in his sugar plantation business for a life<br />
as a pirate gentleman, working with Blackbeard, until an<br />
altercation. His life inspired the <strong>2022</strong> TV show, Our Flag<br />
Means Death.<br />
Then, in the 18th century, there was the infamous pirate Sam<br />
Lord. He hung lanterns on the palm trees by Cobbler’s Reef,<br />
located on the island's southeast coast, which would trick<br />
the merchant ships into running aground so he’d have<br />
rich pickings.<br />
Today Cobbler’s Reef is a popular diving spot. You can see<br />
remnants of the castle Sam Lord built from his profiteering<br />
at St. Philip's Parish, which sadly succumbed to fire in 2010.<br />
Aside from that, nowadays the only sign of pirates in<br />
Barbados is the Jolly Roger - Black Pearl Party Cruises,<br />
which involves plenty of dancing, drinking, and swinging<br />
from the ropes on a replica ship, not to mention the many<br />
shipwrecks found around Carlisle Bay.<br />
If you wish, from Barbados, you can take a day cruise over<br />
to the neighbouring island of Dominica? This is where much<br />
of the Pirates of the Caribbean film series was shot.<br />
Be sure to get a taste for the pirate’s<br />
favourite tipple with a visit to one of the<br />
many classic rum shacks you’ll find,<br />
or take a tour of a historic rum distillery.<br />
However, as prominent naval bases, it was also a place<br />
to be caught. British pirate John Fenn, who sailed with the<br />
legendary Captain Bartholomew Roberts, was executed<br />
in Antigua.<br />
A 7 night holiday in Antigua and Barbados starts from £2,349 per person.<br />
Speak to one of our Personal Travel Planners on 01293 765004<br />
<strong>Autumn</strong> <strong>2022</strong><br />
so Journ
Blue Door<br />
Greek<br />
EAT LIKE A<br />
Has the image of an al fresco whitewashed taverna with tables laden with feta and olive salads, dips, moussaka, and dolmades popped<br />
into your head? While quintessential charming tavernas remain a stalwart feature of every Greek island, a haute cuisine scene has also<br />
flourished. To eat like a Greek has become a riveting, sumptuous affair. We take you to our favourite restaurants across the region.<br />
BLUE DOOR<br />
BLUE PALACE, CRETE<br />
KAMARES BY SPONDI<br />
EAGLES PALACE, HALKIDIKI<br />
Tucked away at the end of the beach and perched atop a rocky<br />
hill lies your quintessential Greek taverna experience! Blue Door is<br />
housed in a former fisherman’s house, and celebrates old world<br />
charm with its blue-hued terrace. Gorge on classic family recipes and<br />
signature seafood dishes, such as oven baked sardines, moussaka<br />
and tiropita, the traditional cheese pie. Enhancing your meal are<br />
views of crystal cobalt waters and captivating Spinalonga Island.<br />
OLD MILL RESTAURANT<br />
ELOUNDA MARE, CRETE<br />
Located around an ancient millstone in the midst of gnarly olive<br />
trees, this all fresco fine-dining restaurant celebrates the timeless<br />
Cretan cuisine with a fusion twist. Since it opened 30 years ago, it’s<br />
received many Toque d'Or awards. Starters include cold beetroot<br />
soup with goat yoghurt and mastic aroma, while mains like grouper<br />
fillet in Cretan greens, braised fennel and shellfish sauce flavoured<br />
with Ouzo, are sure to tempt you.<br />
OCEAN<br />
DAIOS COVE LUXURY RESORT & SPA, CRETE<br />
Where Greek heritage blends with contemporary, sophisticated<br />
flair. Having forged relationships with Cretan small-scale<br />
producers, Ocean serves up handpicked fresh ingredients.<br />
Tuck into hearty salad bowls at lunchtime, or black tempura<br />
cauliflower with grilled feta, followed by swordfish for dinner.<br />
With the breathtaking cove as your backdrop, the nearby waves<br />
of the Mediterranean Sea add to this heightened experience.<br />
Head to the adult’s only Kamares by Spondi restaurant and you’ll<br />
find yourself in the safe, talented hands of two-star Michelin chef<br />
Arnaud Bignon. Situated on a wooden terrace, you can gulp up<br />
incredible island views as you relish seasonally-inspired gourmet<br />
dishes, such as scallops, with cauliflower, chive and arenkha<br />
(caviar), or Press Iberico.<br />
BEEFBAR<br />
BILL & COO SUITES AND LOUNGE, MYKONOS<br />
The highly esteemed Beefbar was born out of Monte Carlo, but<br />
its Mykonos beach location in the shade of mulberry trees is<br />
breathtaking. Owned by Bill & Coo Suites and Lounge, Beefbar<br />
is a 10 minute drive away. Steak lovers will be in seventh heaven,<br />
but the local fishermen are also hard at work so you can feast on<br />
fresh melon sea bass ceviche, octopus tacos, and lobster rolls.<br />
Alternatively, you can go classic with spanakopita or king crab<br />
salad. Take that with a side of lounge tunes from the house DJ and<br />
you’ve got an awesome atmosphere.<br />
LURE RESTAURANT<br />
MYSTIQUE, SANTORINI<br />
Having led several Michelin-starred restaurants, French chef<br />
Olivier Camphana uses the delectable Cycladic ingredients to<br />
deliver inspired Mediterranean flavours, such as a Cycladic<br />
briam of summer vegetables and Santorini tomatoes. Set within<br />
an oasis inspired by the sea views, you’re in for an exceptional<br />
epicurean treat.<br />
RAW BAR<br />
DOMES MIRAMARE, CORFU<br />
Yes, you can come to Corfu and enjoy some of the most exquisite<br />
and premium sushi outside of Japan! For a casual but chic soiree,<br />
RAW Bar offers up Asian fusion to be washed down with fine<br />
champagne and cocktails from award-winning mixologists,<br />
incredible sea views, and live lounge music from resident DJs. Tuck<br />
into tuna usuzukuri with yuzu-ponzu sauce, wakame salad, salmon<br />
teriyaki and so much more!<br />
KOOC - TAVERNA SECRETS<br />
THE WESTIN RESORT & THE ROMANOS, COSTA NAVARINO<br />
Showcasing the organically grown ingredients of Costa Navarino<br />
comes a fusion of Messinian and ethnic fare at KOOC - Taverna<br />
Secrets. For example, within the appetisers you’ll find halloumi<br />
paired with grilled pickled lettuce and dukkha, or traditional meat<br />
pies with tomato confit, basil and sour milk with mint oil. This is all<br />
served up in a tranquil terrace setting.<br />
44 <strong>Sovereign</strong>.com
Old Mill Restaurant<br />
Ocean<br />
RAW Bar<br />
Kamares by Spondi<br />
BEEFBAR<br />
LURE Restaurant<br />
KOOC - Taverna Secrets<br />
Which Greek destination tickles your taste buds? Speak to one of our Personal Travel Planners on 01293 765004<br />
<strong>Autumn</strong> <strong>2022</strong><br />
so Journ
ADVERTORIAL<br />
Dream Deluxe<br />
WITH IKOS RESORTS<br />
For an elegant escape, you’re probably already familiar<br />
with one of our preferred partners, Ikos Resorts. But what<br />
if you want to elevate your experience with even more luxury?<br />
Look no further - Ikos Deluxe Collection has got you!<br />
Ikos Resorts has got all-inclusive luxury accommodation in the<br />
Mediterranean down to a fine art. But what about upgrading your<br />
experience one step further? That’s where the Deluxe Collection comes<br />
in! This is your door to a whole new world of exclusive privileges that<br />
are designed just for you.<br />
It begins with your upgraded Deluxe Collection suite - think private<br />
pools, gardens, and balconies featuring the best views in the resort!<br />
You’ll be welcomed into your strikingly elegant suite with a bottle of<br />
Taittinger champagne on ice. And, while you’re already drinking in<br />
that elegant holiday vibe by picking your perfect pillow for the best<br />
night’s sleep and browsing all the premium amenities, the staff will<br />
happily unpack for you. Yes, you read that right!<br />
This level of service is just the start, as you’re also provided with a<br />
personal Deluxe Concierge throughout your holiday. They will arrange<br />
all the finer and bespoke details that can make your holiday the<br />
absolute dream… Restaurant reservations, spa bookings, laundry<br />
needs? You name it.<br />
With your complimentary Ikos beach bag in hand, wander to your<br />
exclusive beach area or swimming pool, reserved solely for Deluxe<br />
Collection guests, and be spoiled by a special drink and snack menu.<br />
In case you need any further help relaxing, your stay includes two<br />
complimentary neck and massage treatments at the Ikos Spa by Anne<br />
Semonin Paris.<br />
At night, you can tuck into a special dining experience that you’ll<br />
remember forever, whether that’s turning in early and making use<br />
of your 24/7 upgraded in-room dining and mini bar, or sinking your<br />
toes into the sand with a private, romantic dinner right on the beach,<br />
served up with dishes curated by a Michelin-star chef.<br />
In this dreamy upgraded world, children are similarly regaled,<br />
as they can choose their favourite PlayStation games and films.<br />
As your holiday comes to an end, the Ikos team are again on hand to<br />
ensure that you have a seamless departure, this time with an exclusive<br />
checkout and packing service, topped off with a farewell gift.<br />
Luxury is all about the subtle touches, after all.<br />
46 <strong>Sovereign</strong>.com
Are you ready for even more exclusivity?<br />
Why not consider Ikos Resorts newest properties?<br />
Both provide everything you’ve come to expect of Ikos,<br />
including the ultra all-inclusive Infinite Lifestyle concept<br />
where everything is included, Michelin-starred menus,<br />
the Dine Out experience at local restaurants, and signature<br />
activities and spa treatments with Anne Semonin Paris.<br />
Ikos Odisia<br />
We’re really excited to reveal the upcoming Greek island haven of<br />
Ikos Odisia, due to open in May 2023! Located across the bay from<br />
the award-winning Ikos Dassia and just 12 miles from the UNESCO<br />
World Heritage site of Corfu’s Old Town, you’re in for a treat with<br />
the sparkle of the Ionian Sea below you. Plus, its beachfront position<br />
affords you direct access to the warm sands. This landmark low-rise<br />
resort lavishly sweeps across 60 acres, with 395 gorgeous rooms<br />
and suites, 10 heated swimming pools, sports facilities, five à la<br />
carte restaurants, and a Mediterranean buffet.<br />
Ikos Porto Petro<br />
Another new addition set to open in 2023 is Ikos Porto Petro. This<br />
forthcoming Majorca resort is situated next to the scenic Cala<br />
Mondrago Natural Park and the traditional fishing village of Porto<br />
Petro, complete with its charming marina. The chic contemporary<br />
style you’ve come to expect from Ikos Resorts has flourishes of the<br />
warm Majorcan culture, which you can take advantage of in the 324<br />
rooms, and suites with terraces and private pools. You can also enjoy<br />
the resort's five à la carte restaurants and luxurious spa facilities. This<br />
exciting new resort is sandwiched between the two beautiful beaches<br />
of Calo dels Homes Morts and Calo de Sa Torre. If you like your tennis<br />
then you’ll be spoiled with four tennis and two paddle courts!<br />
A 7 night holiday at Ikos Resorts starts from £1,185 per person.<br />
Speak to one of our Personal Travel Planners on 01293 765004<br />
<strong>Autumn</strong> <strong>2022</strong><br />
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WHERE THE CELEBS HEAD<br />
Las Palmas<br />
de Gran Canaria<br />
Whether you're looking for a touch of romance or some<br />
celebrity-spotting, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is the<br />
perfect destination for an unforgettable winter sun holiday.<br />
The city of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is one of the lesser-known<br />
gems of the Canary Islands. The climate is perfect all year-round,<br />
and during the winter months the city comes alive with such<br />
holiday cheer that the warm Mediterranean sun seems to shine<br />
brighter. This makes it the perfect time for you to explore the city's<br />
many palm-lined streets, gardens, and outdoor cafés.<br />
There are brilliant beaches where you can relax and stroll<br />
hand-in-hand along the promenade, enjoy a leisurely lunch at<br />
a sidewalk café, and watch the sun as it sets over the waves.<br />
Or, if you're feeling adventurous, you can take a surfing lesson<br />
or go for a hike in the nearby mountains.<br />
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is renowned for its<br />
celebrity history. With its agreeable climate and<br />
scenery, Britain's wartime prime minister Winston<br />
Churchill famously spent many winters painting<br />
watercolours here, Agatha Christie wrote several<br />
of her famous novels, and the great soprano Maria<br />
Callas was a frequent guest.<br />
The luxurious Santa Catalina, a Royal Hideaway Hotel,<br />
is an integral part of the celebrity attraction, as its beautiful<br />
Spanish-style architecture and stunning setting - nestled<br />
among subtropical gardens - offers a truly regal stay.<br />
Designed by a Scottish architect, the hotel was constructed in<br />
1890 to offer respite for the British dignitaries that passed en<br />
route to and from the African continent. Over the years, it has<br />
undergone several renovations, but you’ll see that its old-world<br />
charm and iconic style remains intact, and the hotel continues<br />
to attract famous faces.<br />
In 2016, while filming Allied, Brad Pitt and Marion Cotillard<br />
reportedly enjoyed private pool parties there, and royalty and<br />
world leaders alike - Prince Charles included - continue to<br />
flock here.<br />
Despite its glamorous pedigree, Santa Catalina is unpretentious<br />
and welcoming, with a relaxed atmosphere that makes it perfect<br />
for a romantic getaway. With its privileged location next to the<br />
gorgeous Doramas Park and just minutes from Las Canteras<br />
Beach, there are breathtaking views to be had, which you can<br />
choose to enjoy from the balcony or terrace of your guest room,<br />
or from the rooftop infinity pool or bar.<br />
Whether you're looking for a secluded hideaway or an opportunity<br />
to rub elbows with the rich and famous, Las Palmas de Gran<br />
Canaria is sure to exceed your expectations.<br />
7 night holiday in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria,<br />
staying at Santa Catalina, starts from £985 per person.<br />
Speak to one of our Personal Travel Planners on 01293 765004<br />
48 <strong>Sovereign</strong>.com
ADVERTORIAL<br />
Adults Only!<br />
WITH SECRETS LANZAROTE RESORT & SPA<br />
Escape to a peaceful adults-only haven in the Canary Islands, where all your worries float away.<br />
Are you looking for a resort stay where from the moment you arrive,<br />
you'll be treated like royalty? Then it’s got to be five star Secrets<br />
Lanzarote Resort & Spa. Well-deserved pampering is the name<br />
of the game here, and you can easily slip into a holiday groove<br />
that combines luxury, relaxation and fun, without the hubbub of<br />
children, as it’s completely adults-only.<br />
The spacious suites are beautifully appointed and offer stunning<br />
views of the ocean or volcanic mountains. And, if you can tear<br />
yourself away from your room, there's plenty to keep you entertained.<br />
The resort is situated near to the exclusive Puerto Calero marina<br />
with its many boutiques and restaurants. The on-site spa is a haven<br />
of peace and tranquillity, offering a range of treatments to help<br />
you unwind.<br />
Why not take a dip in one of the resort's four climatised pools or<br />
head to the secluded beach? You can enjoy a slew of activities,<br />
such as scuba diving and boat trips in the Atlantic Ocean, cycling,<br />
and aqua aerobics.<br />
You can also take day trips to La Geria, renowned for its awardwinning<br />
wineries, or explore the otherworldly Timanfaya<br />
National Park.<br />
With six restaurants onsite, specialising in everything from<br />
sushi, Italian, and gourmet seafood, to a steakhouse,<br />
as well as several lounge bars and cafés, it’s easy to have<br />
a different dining experience every night of your stay.<br />
What’s more, if you’re a Secrets Preferred Club guest then you can<br />
enjoy upgraded room categories, a complimentary concierge<br />
service, and private check-in. It’s the perfect way to enhance your<br />
holiday experience, with a host of VIP amenities.<br />
With its stunning setting, outstanding facilities, and year-round sun,<br />
Secrets Lanzarote Resort & Spa is the perfect place to escape from<br />
it all.<br />
A 7 night holiday at Secrets Lanzarote Resort & Spa starts from £899 per person.<br />
Speak to one of our Personal Travel Planners on 01293 765004<br />
<strong>Autumn</strong> <strong>2022</strong><br />
so Journ
Why<br />
SOVEREIGN LUXURY TRAVEL<br />
GREAT VALUE<br />
We stand for affordable luxury. You'll always receive<br />
exceptional experiences at competitive prices.<br />
All our prices include flights, complimentary lounge<br />
passes, and private transfers as standard.<br />
EXPERIENCED<br />
We’ve been crafting luxury holidays for our<br />
guests for 50 years and know the industry.<br />
We are fully ATOL and ABTA bonded and strictly<br />
managed by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).<br />
TAILORED<br />
Your luxury holiday is crafted just for you,<br />
based on your interests and needs.<br />
Expect personalised service as standard,<br />
for a smooth and hassle-free holiday.<br />
EXCLUSIVE<br />
You’ll always benefit from exclusive offers and<br />
upgrades thanks to our great, long-term partnerships.<br />
Enjoy various perks, including<br />
complimentary airport lounge access.<br />
EXPERT<br />
You’ll have a single point of contact with<br />
your own assigned Personal Travel Planner.<br />
Benefit from our destination expertise, 24/7<br />
support, and up-to-the-minute travel advice.<br />
TRUSTED<br />
Travel with confidence with our high<br />
guest satisfaction rates.<br />
Your safety is our priority. We use tried and tested<br />
accommodation, and provide full flexibility.<br />
Find out what other <strong>Sovereign</strong> Luxury Travel guests say about us on the independent review site Feefo<br />
50 <strong>Sovereign</strong>.com
Where's your next<br />
Holiday?<br />
At <strong>Sovereign</strong> Luxury Travel, we are part of a family of brands who live and breathe travel.<br />
These include Citalia, experts in discovering the real Italy, and American Holidays,<br />
specialising in tailor-made holidays to America, Canada, and the Caribbean,<br />
where the possibilities are unlimited.<br />
Browse their collections of great Italian escapes and awe-inspiring journeys.<br />
• Private & Tailormade Holidays<br />
• Handpicked Accommodation & Destinations<br />
• Small Group Escorted Tours<br />
Citalia.com<br />
Inspired?<br />
Book Your <strong>2022</strong>/2023 Holiday Now And Save Later. Speak to one of our Personal Travel Planners on 01293 765004<br />
Alternatively visit Citalia.com or Americanholidays.com
EYEBROW<br />
To book or find out more, visit <strong>Sovereign</strong>.com<br />
or speak to one of our Personal Travel Planners on 01293 765004<br />
WINNER
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