Leaving the EU a positive impact for the Isle of Wight

LEAVING the EU is having a positive impact on holiday island the Isle of Wight, according to Wight Coast Holidays who are the island's leading provider of self catering holidays.

Estimates vary but the company have seen a rise in holidays by over 20% for #IsleofWight holiday rentals in 2019 compared to 2018.

According to a spokesman from their office in Bembridge they have received multiple bookings from holidaymakers who normally visit Spain, France and Portugal worried about possible delays at airports after the UK leaves the EU - and the prospect of queueing for their flights with children in tow for hours on end has led to them considering the Isle of Wight in 2019, with some visiting for the first time in a few years.

For many in the UK the Isle of Wight ferry crossing separates them from a staycation on the mainland, and the crossing takes less than an hour with Red Funnel from Southampton and Wightlink from Portsmouth Harbour and Lymington.

While it's likely that other UK destinations will experience a holiday industry boost in Devon and Cornwall for example, the fact that to get to the Isle of Wight involves a ferry crossing for those used to going abroad could mean the island will benefit more from the uncertainty over Brexit.

Top attractions on the island include Carisbrooke Castle and Osborne House but for family holidays the beaches of Bembridge, Seaview, Sandown and Shanklin could mean tourists will return again in future years with a positive impact on the tourist industry, which is a major player in the island's economy.


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For the Chosen Few

A year after devastating Hurricane Irma nearly destroyed Anguilla, the island is set to open for the season, bigger and better than ever. The Caribbean's newest Relais & Châteaux property, the ultra-luxury boutique hotel—QUINTESSENCE, is set to open on November 5, 2018.

Q Hotel Anguilla displays luxury and elegance with nine stunning suites, all accommodations with French châteaux comfort. Ten years to build, owner and famed trial lawyer Geoffrey Fieger, spared nothing to create a timeless, world-class tropical mansion. From the Versailles floor pattern, to the vaulted cedar wood ceilings, to the largest art collection in the #Caribbean, every spacious room is filled with comfort and elegance to create an extraordinary lush tropical experience, inside and out.

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Picture Credit: Photos by Joe Jenkin

Hungary for Italy

BUDAPEST Airport’s blistering route network growth looks set to continue into 2019 as the Hungarian gateway announces a further two new routes with Ryanair. Leading the way the ultra-low-cost carrier will launch new links to Bari and Cagliari, both with a twice-weekly service set to commence in April 2019.

While the Ryanair will join Wizz Air in offering direct services to Bari, the port city on the Adriatic Sea, the airline’s link to Cagliari will become Budapest’s first connection to the capital city of the Italian island, #Sardinia. Ryanair’s continued growth at Budapest will see the airline serve eight Italian destinations as of next year as the new services join established links to Naples, Milan Bergamo, Palermo, Pisa, Rome Ciampino and Treviso.

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Madeira to host WTA Gala Ceremony in 2019

MADEIRA has been revealed as the host for the World Travel Awards Europe Gala Ceremony 2019.  The Portuguese destination, which has taken the title of Europe’s Leading Island Destination four times, will use the event to boost its profile on the international stage.

#Madeira Tourist Board, which also walked away with the title of World’s Leading Island Destination at the World Travel Awards last year, will welcome hundreds of industry leaders to the event.


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Up in the air . . .

BRITISH Airways and Fiji Airways, Fiji’s National Airline, have today announced a new partnership which will open up more routes between London and the South Pacific than ever before.

With its idyllic beaches, world-famous dive sites and lush green forests, #Fiji and its extremely popular island destinations are more accessible than ever before as customers in the UK will be able to travel from gateways in the U.S. and Asia to destinations that have previously been more difficult to access from the UK.

From today, British Airways will start selling flights between Singapore, Los Angelesand San Francisco and the Fijian gateway of Nadi direct on ba.com.



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Picture Credit: British Airways

Heading to Zanzibar

ZANZIBAR is a semi-autonomous zone of Tanzania that has become very popular with travellers as part of a trip that combines a safari in the Serengeti National Park with a stay on the marvellous beaches of the island. 

#Zanzibar has a fascinating history influenced by Persians, Arabs, Muslims, Portuguese and the African continent itself. The historic centre of Zanzibar City, the birthplace of singer Freddy Mercury, is known as Stone Town and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000.

RIU Hotels & Resorts has just added Zanzibar to the catalogue of exotic destinations the chain offers to its loyal customers. The Riu Palace Zanzibar is a luxury hotel with 102 rooms and suites located on the northern tip of Unguja, the main island of the archipelago of Zanzibar, less than an hour from the airport and the capital Zanzibar City.

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Magnificent Mauritius

MAURITIUS was listed in the Top Ten Overseas Travel Destination and Top Ten Island Tour Destinations at the Ctrip Forum in April. Lonely Planet announced the 2018 destination list, commenting that #Mauritius was the destination where crystal sea and lavish beach resorts, coral reef, diving, kayaking, and all kinds of activities offer an exclusive traveling experience to all the tourists.

Mauritius is an African island located in the southwest of the Indian Ocean, about 800 kilometers from Madagascar and 2,200 kilometers from the African continent. It is surrounded by coral reefs and colorful tropical marine life.

Mauritius has coastal plain and spectacular mountains with quite spectacular scenery. It is one of the countries with the best air quality in the world ranking second in the World Air Quality Ranking released by the World Health Organization.



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Visa free access to Hainan

#CHINA will offer greater visa-free access for tourists from 59 countries to #Hainan from May 1, in a move to support reform and opening up in the country's southernmost island province.  Under the new policy, group and individual tourists from 59 countries, including Russia, Britain, France, Germany, and the United States, can visit Hainan visa-free and stay there for up to 30 days on condition that they book their tour through travel agencies.

Hainan has offered a 15-day visa-free stay for group tourists from 21 countries since 2000, and added another five countries to the list in 2010.  The eased visa-free access to Hainan is part of China's effort to build the province into "a free trade port with Chinese characteristics," as stated in the guidelines on supporting Hainan to deepen reform and opening up, released by central authorities Saturday.

The island has become a famous tropical resort for overseas tourists in recent years, with the number of overseas tourists exceeding 1.1 million in 2017, up nearly 50 percent year on year.

Last year, Hainan received nearly 320,000 tourists from the 26 countries with visa-free access, 3.5 times the number recorded in 2016. Tourists from Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, the Republic of Korea (ROK) and Russia accounted for more than 90 percent of the total.

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Italian Idyll

LOCATED on the small island of Procida in #Italy, opened in 2011 from the conservative renovation of a 18th century historical palace, La Suite Boutique Hotel is a place where tranquility and design are combined to make the guests’ stay an authentic experience. 

The Black Pool has been made out of an ancient basin that collected the rainwater used once to water the garden. The special design, which combines with the surrounding nature, inspires an endless relaxation.Surrounded by huge Indonesian beds and white beach umbrellas among the palm trees of the garden just sit back and relax.

LaSuite Boutique Hotel is opening on May 1st, 2018 for the coming summer season.

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Tunisia continues its comeback

#TUNISIA continues its comeback, recording strong growth at the world’s leading tourism group TUI, in particular from the German-speaking markets and France. Moreover, the country is among the destinations with the highest customer satisfaction levels. TUI Blue, TUI Group’s new lifestyle hotel brand, has now opened its first hotel in #Djerba and provides authentic holiday experiences in the island.

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What are you waiting for?

ST BARTHS (St Barthélemyas) is located in the Caribbean archipelago in the part occasionally referred to as the Lesser Antilles between St Maarten and Guadaloupe. Measuring only 9 sq. miles, this stunning island is surrounded by crystal clear waters and 16 white sandy beaches. #StBarts is renowned for its exclusivity and beautiful scenery and attracts a wealth of visitors looking for paradise.

The world-class independent rental platform; Haute Retreats is thrilled to be  launching of its new collection of villa rentals in St. Barts, the best jetsetter destination.The new collection of villas in St Barts is developed in response to travelers' rising demand for privacy, luxury, and independence in their holiday accommodations. The villa options range from luxury beachfront residences, to exclusive homes with spectacular ocean views.

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Kids Welcome

ADULTS-only resort in Negril breaks with tradition and welcomes kids. Sunset at the Palms, an all-inclusive resort in Negril, has earned a reputation for being one of the finest adults-only retreats in #Jamaica. The property is also celebrated for its commitment to preserving the natural environment, with guests staying in treehouse-style rooms surrounded by the island nation’s indigenous flora and fauna. 

So we suppose it’s only natural that the resort got a little lesson in the the birds and the bees last month, when its pair of now-famous mascots, Betty and Royal Brown, became the proud parents of a set of bouncing baby goats. 

For more information about this one-of-a-kind resort that caters to adults – and, well, goats visit www.thepalmsjamaica.com

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Aloha: enjoy the festival spirit

A trip to #Hawaii is made complete by the islands’ ‘Aloha’ spirit.

Encompassing all things Hawaiian – the state-wide festivals bring together music, dance and history throughout the year on various dates. The festivals are a must for travellers looking to experience the true Hawaii. 

www.alohafestivals.com

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Snorkel your way to a holiday in the Maldives

IN the joyous spirit of Christmas and to celebrate the season of giving, Coco Collection is offering the opportunity to play an online game for the chance to win a holiday in the #Maldives. 

Designed to follow the journey of a guest who is out snorkelling at a reef and is keen to leave the ocean debris free, the game encourages you to help the guest pick up marine debris floating around the reef, and dispose of them so that they do not harm the marine life. Once the reef is clean, a friend will show up to guide you to enter the raffle and win a stay at the luxurious boutique resort, Coco Bodu Hithi.

The raffle will be closed for entries on 27th November 2018 and the winner will be announced through our social media platforms on 29th November 2018. The lucky winner stands a chance to visit Coco Bodu Hithi for 7 nights with full board meal plan and return speedboat transfers, and stay in an Island Villa. 

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72 Hours in Koh Samui

LOCATED off the eastern coast in the Gulf of #Thailand, Koh Samui is an #island filled with dazzling palm-fringed beaches with plenty to do and see. The vocal local team at OZO Chaweng Samui believe that 72 hours is just right to cover the best attractions, enjoy delicious cuisine and go on an adventure.

The first 24 hours

Explore the island’s spiritual side at three Buddhist sites – Marvel at the famous stunning golden 12-metre-tall Big Buddha statue at Wat Phra Yai, which is visible from your window seat even before you land. Nearby is Wat Plai Laem, offering a glimpse into Thai-Chinese culture and featuring an eye-catching 18-armed Chinese goddess statue. For more insight into Buddhist culture, head to see the mummified monk in a seated meditative pose at Wat Khunaram, a reminder of the natural life cycle.

Unique natural rock formations on the rocky coastline – The iconic Hin Ta and Hin Yai were sculpted by the natural elements over years and resemble the male and female forms. Legend has it that an old couple were travelling with their son to propose to a girl in a neighbouring province. A storm seized their boat and they were unable to survive but turned into rocks as proof to the would-be bride of their true intentions.

An evening well spent at the Fisherman’s Village – Once home to an actual fishing community, the village has been transformed with rustic-style shop-houses housing trendy beachside dining spots and boutiques – but its old-world charm still remains. Before the sun sets, grab seats at CAFE De PIER X Samui and gaze out at the remarkable view of the broken down pier reminiscent of olden years, with the backdrop of the magic hour sky. 

The next 24 hours

A day trip to Ang Thong National Marine Park – Over 40 jagged islands poke through azure seas featuring limestone massifs, tropical rainforests, deserted coves, caves, hidden lagoons and plenty of wildlife. Day trippers are spoilt for choice with lots to do. Underwater-lovers will enjoy swimming with shoals of marine creatures. Explorers with adventurous hearts will get an adrenaline rush from challenging hikes to the striking viewpoints. Those who prefer to stay dry may kayak between the islands, or sunbathe on one of the many white-sand beaches.

An unforgettable last 24 hours

A delicious journey for foodies – Take a piece of Thailand back home with a Thai cooking lesson at Samui Institute of Thai Culinary Arts. The twice-daily three-hour classes start with the preparation of hand-made curry pastes followed by three local dishes. Visitors may also sample the 100% home-grown Magic Alambic rum crafted at the island’s only distillery, K&S Rum, which is worth a visit.

The sweetness of doing nothing – Thanks to OZO Chaweng Samui’s beachfront location, a lazy day can be spent sinking into plush loungers under the shade of coconut palm trees, soaking up the sea views and listening to the rolling waves.

Take Koh Samui home – Get rid of any spare Thai baht with coconut souvenirs as Koh Samui is known to produce the best coconuts in Thailand. The Kalamare, a local gelatinous coconut caramel candy made of coconut milk, sticky rice and palm sugar, is a must.

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Maldives Magic

A 35-minute speedboat ride from Male will take you to the pristine white sands of Hudhuranfushi Island in the #Maldives, overlooking the Indian Ocean. you will find the 4* Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi.

Seven nights’ all-inclusive accommodation in a garden villa and return flights from a variety of UK airports, based on two adults sharing from £989pp saving up to £660pp (40%).

Available for departure on selected dates between 01 May – 17 July 2017 via Cheapflights.co.uk 

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Luxury in the Maldives

THE Amari Havodda #Maldives is a 120-villa private island hideaway located in the pristine Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll approximately 400km south of the capital Male. Situated within one of the largest atolls in the world, enveloped by stunning nature with tropical greenery, turquoise lagoons and white sandy beaches.

A haven for diving, snorkelling and underwater discovery, the island is surrounded by a pristine reef featuring spectacular coral zones and marine habitats. Smart energy saving and harvesting systems are deployed throughout the entire island and the overwater villas were built using special techniques and materials to minimise environmental impact to the pristine lagoon.

The resort is now one of the first in the Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll to offer a direct seaplane connection which is 35-minute flight direct from Gan International Airport to Amari Havodda Maldives.

They are currently offering 25% Off Full Board Rates. Book by January 31 2017 for a stay by April 30 2017.

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Historic Bertrand's Cottage to open on St Helena

BERTRAND'S Cottage on St Helena’s Island will welcome guests for the first time in December 2016. The cottage used to belong to Grand Marshal Bertrand and his family – made famous for working in Napoleon’s service in 1816. The hotel features three en-suite bedrooms and the main public areas will include a lounge and restaurant surrounded by large gardens. 

www.sthelenatourism.com

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The Night Manager lures Brits to Palma

CHEAPOAIR.CO.UK has seen a rise in bookings to Palma, #Majorca, which it attributes to the popularity of the BBC’s recent John le Carré adaptation of The Night Manager. 

The online travel agency has seen the Spanish island enter the #top10 booking destinations for the first time as holidaymakers are lured to the #destination, which provided filming locations for the series.

Compared to the same period in 2015, Ibiza (now at 11) and Lisbon (12) have also entered the top 20 European destinations for the first time.

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Picture Credit: Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma and Parc del Mar  Majorca, Spain

Isle of Man welcomes rising visitor numbers

THE ISLE OF MAN passenger survey has revealed a 6.5 percent increase in tourist visitors to the island in 2015, rising to 134,610. 

Marking the seventh year of continuous growth in tourist visits, the survey found that tourists added approximately £10 million to the island’s economy, with an average of £378 spent per visit.

The figures have been followed by the results of a report commissioned by the #IsleofMan government on the current condition of the hotel industry.

The report, by Hotel Solutions, highlights where the island should invest in its hotel infrastructure to ensure continued tourism growth in a market where expectations towards accommodation provision are constantly rising.

There are direct flights to the Isle of Man from 11 airports in Ireland and the UK, including Glasgow, Liverpool, Manchester, and London (Gatwick/City) with flights taking from 30 minutes to an hour. The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company provides daily ferry travel from Liverpool to Heysham.

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