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The team had a huge amount of fun on Friday 11th December, taking part in Save The Children’s Christmas Jumper Day

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For every member of staff, their children, spouses and pets Haslemere Travel has donated £2 each to this wonderful cause.

At the time of print this initiative had raised over half a million pounds!!!!  And rising!  If you would like to support our fundraising activity please text TEAMHASTRAV to 70050 to donate £2.

Please scroll down for our ‘Rouges Gallery’

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Howard, Prue (Save The Children), Andrew, Aurelia, Chelsea, Gemma, Terry & Annie

Susie & PicklesSusie & Pickles

IMG_2280Joan – aka ‘Frosty’

IMG_2282Howard & Aurelia

Amy xmas jumperAmy, Jamie & Santa

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Aurelia & Chelsea

Beena xmas jumperBeena

KB xmas jumperKaty & family

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Cat xmas jumper copyCat

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Royal Palm Marrakech is located just 7 miles from the centre of Marrakech so guests have easy access to the excitement of the city yet far away enough to escape when you need to.

Royal Palm Marrakech is situated within a vast 231 hectare estate planted with age old olive trees and features a magnificent 18-hole golf course. The hotel’s stunning setting overlooking the spectacular Atlas Mountains coupled with the luxury accommodation and fine dining make this the perfect base for your Morocco holiday.

  • 3 nights in a Junior Suite
  • Bed & breakfast
  • Private airport transfers in Marrakech
  • Travelling in June 2015

Cost per person sharing from £542.00 – SAVE £105 per person

To find out more about this hotel or to check availability and rates please call us on 01428 658 777.

Once again, Haslemere Travel was proud to host this year’s Surrey Young Superstars Awards on May 9th, which rewarded 14 deserving young children, aged from 9 to 19 years-old, from all areas of Surrey.

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The special trophies and certificates were presented by national treasure and Surrey resident, actress Dame Penelope Keith at a special awards ceremony at Guildford’s Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, attended by Lesley Myles, Deputy Lord-Lieutenant of Surrey, the mayors of Guildford, Godalming and Haslemere, as well as friends and family of the winners.

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Launched in 2012, this year we were delighted to organize these awards in partnership with the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, as well as raise awareness of a local charity, Challengers.

The 2014 Group Fundraising Superstars were Beatrice St Pier, Sophie Rodriguez, Maddy Nugent, Lottie Wood, Ariane Boulanger and Jenny Glover.

Pupils from Barrow Hills School, Witley, aged between 9 and 13 years of age, they recently raised £4,000 for facilities for St Benedict’s Primary School in Burkhina Faso, West Africa. Entirely initiated by the girls themselves, they held a ‘Just for Girls Day’ at school in support of the girls in Africa and a farmers market, where they sold homemade produce.

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Our 2014 Individual Fundraising Superstar (13-19 years)was Lauren Hillman. This 13 year-old winner from Worplesdon, Surrey was galvanized to raise funds after a very close family friend was diagnosed with a rare brain tumour and subsequently suffered life-threatening illnesses.  She launched, promoted and organized a talent competition for children aged 3-18.

The evening raised an impressive £2,000.

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The Individual Fundraising Superstar (5-12 years)was Ronan Lenane.

Inspired by the tragic loss of a friend’s father who died in the care of the Princess Alice Hospice, this 10 year-old pupil from Cranmore School, West Horsley raised more than £300 singlehandedly, by combining his love of photography with the aim to sell calendars to raise funds for the hospice.

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Joint winners of Caring Superstar 2014 were sisters Jay and Robyn Parsons.  Aged only 13 and 16, the girls currently care for their mother, who is often bed-bound with a debilitating illness. The girls willingly do all the shopping, housework and cooking for their mother, fitting all of this around a busy school and college life respectively.

PST_1561 We introduced a new category, Courageous Superstar this year and the judges chose two joint winners. The first winner, Oli Nuttall was nominated by his schoolteacher at Aldro School, Shackleford, having bravely faced a plane crash, following a catastrophic engine failure. The skills of the pilot saved their lives and Oli was airlifted to Birmingham Children’s Hospital. Unconscious for the first 24 hours, the medical team worked on his many injuries, which included broken bones and serious lacerations to the face. Everyone has been astounded by his amazing response to this horrendous experience. Just a month after the accident, Oli was back at school in a wheelchair for lessons. His courage and determination to “get back to normal” has been an inspiration to all.

PST_1537The second Courageous Superstar winner, Alex Perryer, is a brave young girl from Guildford who sadly woke one morning at the age of 9 and couldn’t move her arm. Overnight she was fighting for her life and facing life-threatening illnesses. She has since endured countless surgery, agonizing tests and procedures, lost the sight in both eyes and learnt to talk and walk again.  She has done all of this without complaint. She is in and out of hospital, but has never accepted her fate and continues her hobbies as much as she can. The family friends who nominated her described her as ‘the bravest girl they know’.

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The final category, Volunteering Superstar, was won by Diccon James.

As soon as this 19 year-old winner was old enough to do so, he qualified as a theatre chaperone and has spent much of his time helping out at the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre. Despite studying hard for his A’Levels, he has chaperoned the child performers at many shows and even after his London commute for his foundation course, still gives his free time during the evening to supporting young performers.

 

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The top award of the day, Superstar of the Year (chosen from among the category winners by the judges) was awarded to Lauren Hillman.

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Congratulations to all our worthy winners.

 

Please keep your eyes peeled for details of Surrey Young Superstars 2015 and how to enter or nominate.

 

 

 

We are thrilled to announce that Haslemere Travel has been instrumental in raising funds for the £10m purchase of the Anthony Van Dyck self-portrait appeal, led by the National Portrait Gallery and the Art Fund, which was successfully concluded today (May 1st 2014). 

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The £10m target was reached with the help of a major public appeal, which saw 10,000 individuals donating more than £1.4m. Surrey-based, luxury travel business Haslemere Travel, in association with luxury tour operator Kirker Holidays, donated a luxury holiday prize to Antwerp, Van Dyck’s birthplace, to encourage entries for the Art Fund’s Text & Donate fundraising campaign to buy the self-portrait.

More than 2,216 people entered the week-long Text & Donate Antwerp competition and the lucky winner is now planning his weekend break for two to Antwerp, to be taken later this year, with Haslemere Travel.

Painted shortly before the Flemish artist died in 1641, it has been called “one of the finest and most important self-portraits” in British art. Painted only months before he died aged 42, it is housed in an elaborate, Italianate-English frame with a sunflower motif associated with the artist.

The self-portrait had been sold abroad in 2013 before a temporary export ban was imposed. It was then offered to the National Portrait Gallery for £10m, a reduction on the original price of £12.5m.

That sum has now been raised, including a £500,000 grant from the Art Fund and £700,000 from the National Portrait Gallery’s own budget. The self-portrait will be on view at the National Portrait Gallery in London until the end of August, before embarking on a three-year national tour, starting in 2015.

“It is acknowledged that Van Dyck is one of the greatest artists to have worked in Britain, no other artist has had such a dramatic impact on British portraiture and our Haslemere-based company is immensely proud to have played its part in saving this painting for the nation,” said Gemma Antrobus, managing director, Haslemere Travel.

Photo caption: Gemma Antrobus, managing director, Haslemere Travel, pictured at the National Portrait Gallery with the Van Dyck self-portrait

 

When Di and Andrew heard that Sanctuary lodges had taken over the management of a game reserve on the coast of Tanzania, just north of Dar Es Salam, they immediately started to plan their second trip to Tanzania to incorporate Saadani and Zanzibar.

Screen Shot 2014-04-22 at 10.42.30 If you are a wild life lover but also crave the sea this has to be one of the most unique national parks in the world, where else can you have an early morning game drive and then take a dip in the ocean to cool off?

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Saadani is just a 15-minute light aircraft flight from either Dar or Zanzibar.  Coastal Aviation provide a very efficient network around the country and our flight in a Cessna Caravan bought us into landing strip just a few minutes’ drive from Saadani Safari Lodge.  This is a lovely rustic property situated on a wonderful deserted sandy beach on the Indian Ocean.  With just 11 comfortable thatched cottages, some with outdoor showers and a honeymoon suite (complete with private pool) – this was our home for the next 4 nights of relaxed recuperation and game viewing.

483 (2)The lodge has two freshwater pools, one overlooking the ocean and one hidden among the shade of the palm trees.   The library area with oodles of seating areas also has a bar where you meet prior to planned excursions such as guided walks and game viewing:  it is also the wifi area!  A look out viewing platform over a seasonal water hole provides the perfect setting for a sundowner and the main bar and restaurant area ensure you have lots of space and privacy.

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The real surprise and the true attraction of this very unusual property is the short drive from the lodge into the Saadani National Park, 1000 square kilometres of diverse landscape encompassing the historic triangle of Bagamoyo, Pangani and Zanzibar; the history and culture of this Swahili coastline dates back over 2000 years to the days when Persian merchants controlled the gold trade. Historically this was an area rich with prawns and lobster, a doubtful involvement in the slave trade and ivory poaching and more recent dependence on salt mining

The National Park boasts herds of giraffe, elephants, buffalo, lion and leopard, bushbuck, wildebeest, baboons and monkeys, whilst the adjoining Wami River is home to increasing pods of hippopotomi and crocodiles, along with a quite astonishing variety of birdlife.

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Di and I stayed for 2 nights at the Saadani River Lodge, and this was a treat not to be missed. The Lodge has 12 stilted luxurious suites, all with outdoor showers, linked to all areas of the camp via a long wooden platform high above the ground to keep you safe from the hippos and crocs.  Rare Colobus monkeys and abundant birdlife can be seen from all areas of the cam.  This is a true bird watchers paradise, with a quite astonishing variety of  birds: kingfishers, bee-eaters, herons, lilac breasted rollers, cormorant, fish eagles, stork, ibis, egret, weaver birds, pelicans, african eagles, bateleur, sandpiper, plovers and curlew….our favourites were the bright yellow weaver birds popping out of their round nests all along the river, the beautiful mangrove and malachite kingfishers and the white fronted bee-eaters.

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In spite of many other previous African experiences, this was a truly wonderful experience and something really special – not least that your game viewing is unhindered by any other vehicle so unlike most other areas of Africa.  The variety of animals in the National Park and the bird life on the river, all enhanced by the spectacular light that shone over the plains and the water in the early morning and late afternoon sun, the delicious food and charming and knowledgeable staff, are all memories that will not fade away; we will return very soon.

 

To find out more about Tanzania, Zanzibar or Saadani please do visit the office or call us on 01428 648777

IN SEARCH OF SURREY’S YOUNG SUPERSTARS!

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This year we have joined together with top Surrey venue, the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre to organise the second Surrey Young Superstars Awards, which will include a new Courageous Superstar category, to spotlight the many achievements of young people in the county.

 

The ground-breaking awards, supported by Surrey Life and A+ magazine, as well as SATRO, also seek to raise awareness of Haslemere Travel’s chosen charity, Guildford-based Challengers, which provides inclusive play and leisure for disabled children and young people in Surrey.

 

Launched last year, the 2013 Surrey Young Superstars awards rewarded and showcased young people’s efforts and honoured them for their hard work and achievements in Surrey. The awards culminated in a glittering awards ceremony hosted by top comedian Rob Brydon.

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The awards event for all 2014 prizewinners will take place on May 9th 2014 at Guildford’s Yvonne Arnaud Theatre Mill Studio. Award categories, include:

 

* Caring Superstar
 * Volunteering Superstar
 * Business Superstar
* Sporting Superstar 
*Fundraising Superstar (5-12 years)
* Fundraising Superstar (13-19) * Courageous Superstar

 

The new category, Courageous Superstar, will seek to reward a young person who has overcome adversity, be that illness, disability or disadvantage, to achieve and exceed their goals with a positive and inspiring attitude on those around them.

 

Judged by the panel of organisers and sponsors, the winner of the top award, Superstar of the Year, will receive four tickets to the popular Yvonne Arnaud Christmas pantomime in 2014, in addition to an award trophy and certificate.

 

“These awards will once again seek to be a wonderful showcase for young people in Surrey, to demonstrate their ambition and be honoured for their bravery and hard work,” said Gemma Antrobus, managing director of Haslemere Travel.

 

Madeleine Coleman, Funding Executive at the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre said: “We are delighted to be a partner with Haslemere Travel for the Surrey Young Superstars event.  To acknowledge and reward young people for their kind acts of volunteering, fundraising and charity initiatives in the local community is very important to the Theatre.”

 

Awards nomination forms : SYS 2014 Info  &  SYS 2014 Entry Criteria

 

The entry date has now passed and judging has taken place.  We look forward to seeing the winners at the awards ceremony in May 2014.

 

 

Having visited Marrakech in Morrocco on a number of occasions, Gemma was delighted to have the opportunity to visit Morocco’s third largest city, Fez, in late September.

Fez at night

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Fez is an exceptionally traditional city and whilst it welcomes tourists and visitors with open arms it does not compromise on its traditional heritage and culture.

The city has two old medinas, the larger of the which is Fes el Baliand and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  With over 9000 streets, it is believed to be one of the world’s largest car-free urban areas. Al-Qarawiyyin, founded in AD 859, is the oldest continuously functioning madrasa in the world. The city has been called the “Mecca of the West” and the “Athens of Africa”.

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Fez medinaWhen visiting Fez you must take a guided walking tour around the medina where you can wander with the local people many of whom are buying their meat and vegetables in the market.  Others are making their way to places of worship for prayer time and others just passing them time and relaxing outside their humble homes.

Vegetable market in FezFez market 2

Shopping for traditional Moroccan crafts is exciting.  You will not find shops or souks selling tourist trinkets, instead women weave elaborate carpets by hand, men stand behind huge looms, creating wondrous fabrics, materials are dyed in large vats in the street and down every tiny alleyway you will find lanterns and brass wear of all shapes and sizes.

Carpet Fez

Loom FezDye Fez

Lanterns Fez

This imperial city of Fez is the capital of traditional Moroccan culture. A cradle of knowledge, for which its superb medersas are a flamboyant symbol.  A medersa is a school where the Koran is taught along with all the classic subject of learning: mathematics, grammar, history, astronomy, medicine… In Morocco, and especially in Fès, medersas have the important role of integrating students from other regions. Generally they are built around a central courtyard with a fountain. Classes are held under the sumptuous arcades bordering it.  Many are still active, but it is a wonderful experience to visit some of the fabulous buildings now standing vacant.

Medersa in Fez

The al-Karaouine mosque was founded by Fatima al-Fihri in 859 with an associated school (Medersa), which subsequently became one of the leading spiritual and educational centers of the historic Muslim world. It was incorporated into Morocco’s modern state university system in 1963 and is the oldest existing and continually operating educational institution in the world according to UNESCO and Guinness World Records.  The mosque can accommodate 22,000 worshipers and is recognised as the largest in Africa.
The gorgeous Riad Fes (a member of Relais & Chateaux) was Gemma’s home for four days.  Situated within the walls of the medina, the 30 room property is made up of 5 Riad’s joined together, all providing their own unique marbled and mosaic interiors.  A wealth of art, artefacts and antiques adorn the Riad and each bedroom has its own individual charm and decor.
Riad Fes, FezRiad Fes 2, fezGastronomy is at the heart of the Riad and 3 night Gourmet packages are offered as well as individual Moroccan cooking classes.  Guests join the chef for a shopping trip to the souk where they purchase the fresh ingredients for their meal and then spend a few hours in the main kitchen preparing a starter, main course and dessert.  Gemma and her family enjoyed making their evening meal and had lots of fun learning the various techniques used in the preparation of traditional Moroccan fare.
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Cooking lessons Fez 2
cooking lessons Fez 3

After a hard days shopping in the souk and cooking in the kitchen, why not indulge yourself with a Hammam and massage at Riad Fez luxurious spa?  Or sip on a cocktail whilst relaxing by the pool.  The peace and tranquility is astounding, especially considering you are in the heart of a medina with 9,000 streets.

Riad Fez pool Fez

Fez truly does take you on a journey back in time  and is perfect for a long weekend or as part of a larger tour of Morocco, also staying in Casablanca, Rabat and Marrakech.
For further details, or to plan your own unique adventure in Fez, please do not hesitate to contact us on 01428 658777.

Haslemere Travel’s Managing Director, Gemma, took her family to Thailand, to discover the wonders of the Orient.  Here, we find out more from our MINI BLOGGER, Gemma’s daughter Aurelia, why this destination is perfect for families.

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HT: Hi Aurelia, we understand you went with your family to Thailand.  Can you tell us how you got there?
AA:  We flew from London Heathrow directly to Bangkok, with EVA Air, which took about 12 hours.  The aeroplane was very large and so were the seats and I had lots of movies to choose from.  EVA Air even have some Hello Kitty themed aeroplanes, but ours was just normal and green.  The taxi’s at the airport in Bangkok are pink!

Bangkok Airport, Thailand

HT:  At what time of year did you go to Thailand?  And was the weather good?
AA:  We went in April and it’s was lovely and hot.

HT:  So where did you go in Thailand?
AA:  First of all we went to Bangkok and stayed at The Mandarin Oriental Hotel, which is right on the river.  The hotel is on both sides of the river and it was very exciting taking the boat from one side to the other, which we did quite a lot as Daddy went to the gym on the other-side and Mummy went to the spa.

MO Bangkok, Thailand

There was also a lovely Thai restaurant where I saw my first Thai dancers, who were so beautiful.  I took my teddy ‘Fi-Fi’ to dinner and the man even gave her a chair!

Thai Dancers, MO Bangkok, Thailand

They also had kiddie size bathrobes in the room, which I liked.

MO Bangkok, Thailand

HT:  Did the hotel have a kids club?
AA: No, its not that sort of hotel and we didn’t have time for kids club, as we were exploring the city on a tuk-tuk, which was so much fun.  There is a small pool at the hotel and I made friends with a girl called Freya who was also from England.

HT:  So where did you go in Bangkok?
AA:  Everywhere!  We went to markets, shops, the tailors to have clothes made for Mummy & Daddy – that wasn’t much fun, but the man gave me orange Fanta in a glass bottle.  We went to see gold Buddha’s and temples too, but the best bit was riding in the tuk-tuk.

Tuk Tuk Bangkok, Thailand

HT:  That sounds like lots of fun, did you go anywhere else in Thailand?
AA:  Yes, we took a small aeroplane to Koh Samui, which is a little island about an hour away.  It was very funny when we landed because the airport was like a garden shed.

Koh Samui Airport, Thailand

HT: Where did you stay in Koh Samui?
AA:  We stayed at three hotels on different parts of the island.  The first was the Intercontinental Baan Taling Ngam in the West.

Intercontinental Koh Samui

It was on a hill with a really nice beach and pool next to it.  They also had a kids club ‘Planet Trekkers’ which I really enjoyed.

Kids Club Intercontinental, Koh Samui, Thailand

To get from our room you had to walk through some jungle and on a wobbly bridge.

Intercontinental, Koh Samui, Thailand

I watched the sunset with Mummy & Daddy, which was a very pretty orange colour and went kayaking in a small red boat.

sunset, Koh Samui, ThailandHT:  So tell us about the second hotel?
AA:  This hotel, The Napasai was at the North.  I liked this one the most as our room had its own private pool that no one else could use.  When we stayed here is was Thai New Year (Songkran), so there was a Buddhist Monk ceremony at the hotel and lots of water gun fights, as this is tradition.  We bought a water gun from the local market so we could join in.

Songkran, Thailand

 

Songkran, Thailand

The beach was really clear and there was a special area for swimming in the sea that the hotel had made.  I collected lots and lots of shells and even found a crab on the beach.  At dinner one night my chicken and rice came served in half a pineapple, which was very funny.

Shells, Thailand

HT:  What about the last hotel?
AA:  We stayed at The Renaissance in the East where my Aunty got married on the beach and I was a bridesmaid.

Renaissance, Koh Samui, Thailand

This hotel has a lovely pool right next to the beach with fountains and sun beds in the pool. They didn’t have a kids club, but there were lots of children’s toys to play with in the pool.  I really enjoyed the breakfast here, as there were so many types of juice to choose from.

Renaissance, Koh Samui, Thailand HT:  So did you explore Koh Samui?
AA:  Yes, we went out to some local towns and villages and walked around the markets, which I loved, as there were lots of pretty things to buy.  We also visited some waterfalls, which I wanted to climb, but they were very steep.

Waterfalls, Thailand

We went to see some botanical gardens that were very pretty, as the colours were so bright and we went on an elephant ride, which was amazing.  I even got to feed the elephant who was called Nina, with banana’s afterwards.  Riding an elephant is more comfortable than riding a camel, which I have done in Egypt.

Elephant, Thailand

HT:  Wow, sounds like a very busy and exciting trip.  What was the best bit?
AA:  Squirting the water pistols at Songkran, seeing the Thai dancers, riding on Nina the elephant, the lovely Thai people at the hotels who were very kind to me and all the orchids that they gave me every day to wear.  I also loved the fireworks at New Year and making a wish on a lantern and letting it float into the sky.  The worst part was having to come home.

lantern, Thailand

HT:  Thank you Aurelia, I can’t wait to visit Thailand now!

 

For more information about holidays to Thailand or family holidays to any destination, please pop into the office or call us on 01428 658 777

The United Arab Emirates is a country bordering Oman to the east and Saudi Arabia to the south, as well as sharing sea borders with Qatar and Iran.   The UAE is a federation of seven emirates – Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Dubai, Fujairah, Ras al-Khaimah, Sharjah, and Umm al-Quwain. Abu Dhabi is the capital and second largest city in the UAE.

Map of the UAEThe city of Abu Dhabi is on an island less than 250m from the mainland and joined by the Mussafah Bridges.  The other main islands that comprise Abu Dhabi are Yas Island, with its array of leisure activities and Saadiyat Island with its beautiful sandy beaches and emerging cultural district.

Having visited Dubai on many occasions, quite naïvely I presumed that Abu Dhabi would be a carbon copy of the city, but I was very pleasantly surprised to see that whilst you can drive between the two in 45 minutes, they are distinctly different.

Abu Dhabi is a thoroughly modern city, with gleaming sky scrappers (far less than Dubai) and beautifully landscaped gardens (over 2,000 of these), but behind this modern façade stands the traditions and rich heritage of its past.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is an icon in the city, one of the UAE’s most important architectural landmarks and one of the most opulent in the world at over 107m tall and with over 82 domes.  The third largest mosque in the world can accommodate 41,000 worshippers and houses the world’s largest carpet and one of the world’s largest Swarovski chandeliers.  A trip to Abu Dhabi would not be complete without visiting this wondrous building.

Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Abu Dhabi Other places of interest include the Corniche, which runs for 6km along the shorelines and defines the border of Abu Dhabi.  Manicured gardens, blue flag beaches and plenty of paved walkways, make it perfect for all travellers, especially families.  The Heritage Village, Zayed Centre, Al Maqtaa Fort, Manarat Al Saadiyat, UAE Pavilion, Falcon Hospital and Saluki Centre all will give a further insight into the culture, traditions and heritage of this region and should not be missed.

Corniche, Abu dhabi So where to stay?  There is something for everyone!

On Saadiyat Island you can find the more traditional beach resorts, with The Park Hyatt and St Regis being amongst my favourites.  Both boast numerous dining options and the facilities and activities you would expect at well-known hotel brands and on the most glorious stretch of white sand.  As Saadiyat Island continues to develop as a cultural destination with the Guggenheim and Louvre Museums, these will only be a stones throw away, along with world championship golf-courses.

Park Hyaat, saadiyat island, Abu DhabiSaadiyat Island golf course, Abu Dhabi

 In the mid-town area and set on the waterfront and mangrove areas you have hotels including, Eastern Mangroves by Anantara, Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, The Ritz-Carlton and Shangri-La.  They all provide a slightly more urban and contemporary feel, but are more centrally located for exploring the Emirate.

eastern mangroves, Abu Dhabi The Emirates Place is one of the world’s most opulent hotels.  Set on 1.3km’s of pristine beach on the city’s Corniche, no expense has been spared to make this one of the most glitzy establishments you will ever enter. It is a distance of 1km to walk from one end of the hotel to another and with Swarovski crystals on every door handle, that’s a lot of bling!

Emirates palace, Abu DhabiEmirates palace door handle, abu dhabiYas Island has a vast array of attractions including The Yas Marina Circuit, which has been home to the UAE F1 Grand Prix since 2009 and Yas Waterworld.  This is a water park and amusement park rolled into one, located on the island with close proximity to Ferrai World, the world’s largest indoor amusement park with the world’s fastest roller-coaster – Formula Rosser.  There is a complimentary bus service that operates regular circuits of the island and will drop you of at your chosen location – it is very punctual!  This island is all about spectacular experiences so it is no wonder that the Yas Viceroy Hotel is a distinctive destination of its own.  The hotel is not only unique in design, but also in location as it is the only hotel in the world to be located within a F1 circuit.  With a beach club only a short hop away, this hotel provides something for everyone…and the spa treatments are amazing too!

Yas Viceroy, Abu Dhabi

Yas Viceroy, Abu Dhabi

Within an easy 2-hour drive from the center of the city, you can reach Liwa Desert, one of the largest uninterrupted sand deserts in the world.  A small sign on the highway marks a track, where you will drive 5 miles into the desert until you reach the luxury oasis of Qasr Al Sarab.  This desert resort has all the facilities you could wish for including spa, fitness center, kids club and a variety of dining options, but what is so unique is the location.  For as far as the eye can see is sand.  Camel rides, dune bashing, walking, biking, archery and 4×4 desert safari’s will fill your days, whilst sundowners under the stars will complete your day.

Qasr al sarab, abu dhabiDune Bashing, Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi is a truly surprising destination, the perfect mix of culture, luxury, activities and exceptional service.  With almost year round sunshine and a flying time from the UK of less than 7 hours, a short taster or a longer holiday adventure are all possible.

To find out more or to make an enquiry, please call 01428 658777.

In July 2012, 16 year old Chelsea Cooper joined the team at Haslemere Travel as the company’s first Apprentice.  An Apprenticeship is a form of vocational training enabling young people to earn while they learn, the skills necessary to succeed in their chosen career.

Apprentices gain key transferable skills such as working in teams, problem-solving, communication and using new technology as well as studying for a qualification, which provides further knowledge and understanding of the relevant job.

Chelsea has completed the first year of her two year apprenticeship and has been working both with a mentor in the business (Susie Atkinson, Manager at Haslemere Travel) and also with an assessor from Training for Travel who administer the learning element of the apprenticeship.  Chelsea is working towards her Level 3 NVQ.

Chelsea has made exceptional progress in just one year and has become an integral part of the team at Haslemere Travel, so it was extremely exciting to learn that she had won the prestigious Institute of Travel and Tourism (ITT)’s Apprenticeship of the Year Award 2013. This award rewards an apprentice for their hard work and dedication to their job role as well as their NVQ qualification over the past 12 months, giving special recognition to those apprentices whom are believed to have excelled during this time.

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Accompanied by managing director Gemma Antrobus, and retail manager Susie Atkinson, Chelsea was presented with a trophy by Dame Tessa Jowell MP at the ITT Cocktails event at the Houses of Commons, London on 18th July.

IMG-20130718-00480 As winner of the 2013 prize, Chelsea wins a £300 cash prize, ITT student membership for the year, a hotel stay in London for the event and return train tickets to and from the event

“I am thrilled with this award, as it’s my first ever,” says Chelsea. “I love working in travel and with the great team at the agency and it is my ambition to work full-time in the profession and also travel the world.” Her first aim is to travel to Dubai and the USA, “having heard so much about it from the team when they travel there, both destinations sound wonderful.”

Chelsea will use her £300 cash award towards a holiday in Tunisia in August this year.

“We are so very proud of Chelsea’s achievements!  She is a vital part of the team at Haslemere Travel and we all know how hard she has worked, so to be recognised for her efforts is just amazing.  She has a very bright career ahead of her” said Gemma Antrobus, managing director, Haslemere Travel.

 

 

Are you in need of inspiration for your next travel adventure?  Do you fancy rubbing shoulders with the Hollywood’s finest?  Then check out our Top 15 holiday hot spots for the rich and famous:

# 1 Los Cabos, Mexico
This Mexican resort area is pristine and chock full of celebrity sightings. Jennifer Aniston, Jennifer Lopez, George Clooney, LeAnn Rimes and others like to come here to relax.

# 2 St. Barths
This Caribbean island is no stranger to stars. Tom Hanks and Mick Jagger are among the frequent guests here.

Take a look at the fabulous hotels we recommend in St Barths
Take a look at the AMAZING DEALS we have to St Barths 

# 3 Aruba, Dutch Antilles
In the southern part of the Caribbean Sea, you might bump into Missy Elliot or Jordin Sparks.

# 4 Ibiza, Spain
Feeling more in a party mood, then come down to Ibiza. People have fun all day every day. You might see Leo DiCaprio, Kylie Minogue, P-Diddy or maybe some European celebs.

Take a look at the fabulous properties we recommend in Ibiza
Take a look at the AMAZING DEALS we have to Ibiza

# 5 Aspen, Colorado
Hit the slopes in style, without having to go too far away. Perhaps seeing Mariah Carey, Mischa Barton, Jerry Seinfeld or the Beckhams would be incentive to learn to snowboard.

Take a look at the properties we recommend in Aspen

# 6 Turtle Island, Fiji
If you have money burning a hole in your pocket, then this is the place. With exclusivity come celebrities. Only 28 guests are allowed on the island at a time.

Take a look at the cruises we offer that visit Fiji

#7 The Hamptons, USA
With plenty of wealthy stars and celebrities owning prime real estate here, The Hamptons is the spot to be, especially during summer months. Try to spot Billy Joel, Martha Stewart, Steven Spielberg or Jerry Seinfeld.

# 8 Wakaya, Fiji
Want a secluded private island with a high chance of seeing Nicole Kidman, Russell Crowe or Keith Richards. This would be the spot!

# 9 Dominican Republic
Wanna be a Kardashian, then go where they go. They recently shot some scenes at the Dominican Republic. If they liked it enough they will probably be going back.

Take a look at the properties we recommend in the Dominican Republic
Take a look at our AMAZING Deals to the Dominican republic

# 10 St. Lucia – Jade Mountain at Anse Chastnet
Perhaps you glanced at this resort in the finale of the US hot series ‘The Bachelor’. The story doesn’t end there. The resort’s helipad is often used by stars like the Olsen twins, Amy Winehouse and others.

Take a closer look at the gorgeous JADE MOUNTAIN 

# 11 St. Moritz, Switzerland
Forget the beaches and head for the slopes. No better place than Switzerland. Don’t be surprised to see George Clooney enjoying the fresh powder.

Check out one of our favourite chalets in St Moritz

# 12 Lake Como, Italy
Wanting to try a new country? Then try Italy, and Lake Como in particular. Avril Lavigne, George Clooney and other stars enjoy taking a swim in these waters.

Just a sample of some of our favourite Lake Como hotels

# 13 Bora Bora
Any place worth repeating in its name is a must see, more than once. Charlize Theron, Sharon Stone and Nicole Kidman sure fit this theory by frequenting this place.

# 14 Maui, Hawaii
Want something affordable where stars might be seen (and we are not talking about the sky). Try Maui, where there is always a chance for stargazing and if not at least you get a good trip. You might find yourself bumping into Gerard Butler or Britney Spears.

Some fantastic cruises stop at many of the Hawaiian islands

# 15 Mallorca, Spain
Want some culture and not just the beaches? Then visit Mallorca and try to find Michael Douglas or Catherine Zeta Jones who have a home there.

So many beautiful properties to stay in, in Mallorca – here are a few
And some fantastic deals too

 

At Haslemere Travel we book holidays to all destinations, including the UK and for all price ranges, so you don’t have to have a celebrity budget to talk to us about your next holiday adventure.

 

Call us on 01428 658777 to find out more…..

 

The Sultanate of Oman, is one of our favourite destinations at Haslemere Travel and one where many happy clients return to each year.  Oman has so much to offer that it is hard to know where to begin.  Oman has one of the most diverse environments in the Middle East with various tourist attractions and is particularly well known for its fascinating culture, stunning diverse landscapes, 6000 years of history including UNESCO Heritage sites and warm welcoming people.


With 3165km of pristine coastline, Oman’s waters make the destination unbeatable for sailing, snorkeling and diving whether visiting the majestic fjords of the Musandam region or enjoying a day trip off the Muscat coast.

Surfing enthusiasts can find the perfect conditions for surfing at the beautiful Masirah Islands. Oman’s waters also play host to magnificent sea life such as Dolphins, Whales and Turtles.  For those wishing to explore on land, there are Desert safari’s to he most renowned Omani desert (Sharqiyah Sands) with its dunes rising to nearly 200 meters or Caving at Al-Hoota cave (the most famous cave in Oman). This cave located at the foot of Jebel Shams of Al Hamra and is one of the largest cave systems in the world.

Oman has a hot climate (with temperatures reaching around 50 °C in the hot season, from May to September) and very little rainfall, making it attractive to travellers year round. Rainfall in Muscat falls mostly in January and the Dhofar Mountains area receives seasonal rainfall from late June to late September.  Some parts of the coast, particularly near the island of Masirah, sometimes receive no rain at all within the course of a year.

Oman is home to a fantastic variety of hotels, of varying sizes and decors, from the chic minimalist design of The Chedi, the opulence of The Al Bustan Palace, the traditional Oman village feel of Six Senses Zighy Bay and the gradure of three hotels in one resort at The Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort .  Our team at Haslemere Travel know these properties well and can make personal recommendations to suit your chosen holiday experience.
For further details on hotels and any offers we have available, please feel free to use our on-line OFFERS facility on the website or call us on 01428 658777.  We are always happy to chat to you about the places we love!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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