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    Malvern World Travel Photo albums
    Friday
    May112012

    THE ABAMA GOLF AND SPA RESORT, A BEAUTIFUL MOORISH STYLE PARADISE IN TENERIFE

    Abama Golf & Spa Resort is a 160 hectare ‘finca’ (private estate) tucked away in Guía de Isora, a tranquil and little known area of the island of Tenerife.

    The island, the largest of the seven that make up the Canary Island archipelago, is just over 300 km from the African coast, and about 1,300 km from the Spanish Mainland. Slightly to the north of the Tropic of Cancer, situated in the centre of the chain, between Gran Canaria, La Gomera and La Palma.

    Abama features volcanic landscapes, exuberant vegetation with over 300 varieties of plants, trees and palm trees, with breathtaking panoramic views over the Atlantic Ocean and the Island of La Gomera. With a spectacular situation on the South West Coast of Tenerife on the smooth slopes of the Teide, the highest peak in Spain, our Tenerife hotel is set on breathtaking landscape that runs all the way down to the ocean and features its exclusive beach.

    Tenerife is known throughout the world as the Island of Eternal Spring. In its privileged location, the Abama hotel enjoys more hours of sunshine than any other part of Spain, with an average annual temperature of 23º C.

    The ethnic design and African influences of our hotel provide an exceptional location from which guests can relax and discover the beauty of the island.

    Architecture

    Modernist architecture merges with north African traditions and ancient Chinese principles in Abama. Designed by the renowned Chilean/Bolivian architect Melvin Villaroel, Abama is unique: a magic citadel of interconnected Moorish buildings whose burnt terracotta colours seem to shift and change with every hour of the day.

    More than anything else, Abama is a communion between architecture and the natural environment: a place where sea, land and tropical vegetation mingle effortlessly with architectural forms. Its ingenious layout, guided by the aesthetic system of Feng Shui, means that you will find spaces of calm and seclusion even in the busiest parts of the hotel, and secret gardens, delightful pools and breathtaking vistas around every corner.

    No matter how long you stay, there’s always more to explore.

    LEE HARRISON OF MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL QUOTES
    "LOOKS CAN BE QUITE DECEIVING, WHEN YOU LEAVE THE MOTORWAY AND HAVE YOUR FIRST GLIMPSE OF THE ABAMA, YOU WOULD THINK WHY BUILD A HOTEL NEXT TO A BUSY MAIN ROAD?, IT IS ONLY WHEN YOU LEAVE THE ROAD, YOU DISCOVER THE ABAMA IS IN A BEAUTIFUL AND QUIET SETTING AND A WARM WELCOME AWAITS FROM IMPECCABLY DRESSED PORTERS, BEFORE YOU ENTER THE RECEPTION AREA"

    •Jacuzzi and hydrotherapy pool at the spa, Thermal circuit and complete Fitness Center.

    •10 dining options and 3 bars

    •Dave Thomas-designed golf course

    •Sánchez-Casal Tennis Academy

    •Exclusive Beach accessed by a funicular

    •7 Swimming pools + 2 natural pools

    •24 hour check-in •24 hour in-room dining

    •24 hour porter service

    •24 hour in-room resort security •Central safe

    The Abama hotel's 476 guest rooms and suites are divided between the Complex (328), the Villas and the exclusive Club Rooms and Suites, most of which enjoy magnificent views over the Atlantic, thegolf course and the beautiful gardens. The Complex at the hotel combines ethnic architecture with a Moorish feel in almost all of its many guest rooms and suites.

    The Sleeping Experience

    If anything can improve a day of blissful indulgence, it’s the promise of a blissful night’s sleep at the end of it. At Abama, they can guarantee all of their guests a restful sleep, not just because of the tranquillity of the rooms, but due to the care and attention they pay to the preparation of the beds. The Abama uses only the highest quality bed linen, including luxurious featherbeds, 300 thread-count Egyptian cotton sheets in citadel rooms and 100% natural linen in the villas.

    Six pillows of different sizes come as standard in each room, with other types for those with allergies or orthopaedic requirements available from our extensive pillow menu.

    •Featherbeds

    •Pillow selection

    •Towels and bed linen of the highest quality

    •Marble-tiled baths with separate shower, toilet and sinks

    •Bathrobes and slippers

    •Hair dryer

    •High-speed Internet Connection

    •Vast variety of national and international selection of television channels

    •Interactive TV

    •Radio alarm clock

    •2 in-room telephones: one with loud speaker and voicemail and one bathroom telephone •Air-conditioning

    •Personal safe

    •Mini bar

    •Laundry and dry cleaning services

    Citadel Accommodation

    The citadel is the heart of the Abama complex. Here you’ll find most of Abama’s bars and restaurants, its library and screening room, its decadently indulgent spa, its secret gardens, ornamental lakes and swimming pools.

    The citadel is ideally situated between Abama’s beach and its golf course, both within strolling distance, or reachable in two minutes by chauffeur-driven buggy. In the citadel The Abama offers a choice of a deluxe room or two categories of suite accommodation. The rooms’ interior design makes use of local materials such as Canary Island pine, and each comes equipped with a king-size bed or twin beds, a spacious fitted oak wardrobe with coat and shoe racks, a chest of drawers and state of the art audio-visual equipment.

    Enjoy a refreshing shower or relaxing soak in the marble bathrooms, each with large tubs, a separate shower stall, and complimentary brand-name bath products, before drinking in the magnificent view of the Atlantic, the golf course or the gardens from the comfort of your private furnished terrace.

    LEE HARRISON OF MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL QUOTES
    "WE WERE EXTREMELY IMPRESSED JUST HOW MUCH SPACE EACH ROOM, VILLA AND SUITE HAD, AND HOW CAREFULLY THOUGHT OUT THE ATTENTION TO DETAIL,  THE STYLING OF FURNISHINGS AND COLOURS EACH TYPE OF ACCOMMODATION HAD GIVING YOU A FEELING OF PEACE AND HARMONY AND RELAXATION "

    Double Room

    •Spacious (50 m²) •32" TV •Minibar, safe and wardrobe •Individually controlled air conditioning •Fully equipped bathroom and shower •Large furnished terrace with window boxes

    Junior Suite

    •70m² Suite •King-size bed (2mx2m) •32" TV •Minibar, safe and wardrobe •Individually controlled air conditioning •Fully equipped bathroom and shower •Large furnished balconies with window boxes

    Presidential Suite

    •Ocean view •277m² suite •Two bedrooms •Spacious living area with lounge and separate dining room •Main bedroom with king-size ABAMA bed (2mX2m) •Secondary bedroom with two single beds (1mx2m) •Two marble bathrooms •Separate kitchenette •Large balcony with jacuzzi and window boxes

    Royal Suite

    Features: Suite with ocean view, terrace, outdoor Jacuzzi, Japanese garden, open plan living room and bar area and dinning room, TV room with a 42” television, kitchen, service kitchen, master bedroom with a dressing room, rest room, shower, hydro massage bathtub and washroom, guest room with a dressing room, rest room, shower, hydro massage bathtub and TV 32”. Furniture in noble wood, oak wood doors and marble grounds.

    Imperial Penthouse

    Features: Penthouse with ocean view, terrace, Master bedroom with 2 rest rooms + dressing room + sauna- shower + Jacuzzi, Guest room with rest room + shower + Jacuzzi bathtub + dressing room + individual terrace, a general rest room, outdoor cooled swimming pool (28 Cº max), tropical plants (6 Kentia palm trees…), living room, open kitchen with a bar, dinning room, 42” TV in the living room and 32” in the bedrooms, BOSE audio equipment inside and outside, digital air conditioning control pad and digital videophone. Oak wood doors in all the rooms and marble grounds.

    Villa Accommodation

    Hidden among the botanic gardens tumbling down from the main citadel towards the ocean are the villas, combining exclusive luxury with blissful seclusion. Abama’s villas rooms are oases of calm designed for guests and families in search of ultimate escape. As well as enjoying all the amenities of the citadel rooms, each row of villas has access to an exclusive pool, wonderful ocean views from its top floor rooms, a high, pitched ceiling with exposed beams and a four-poster bed. Full room service and transport to any other part of the complex are available at your request.

    Double Room Villas

    All of the 50sqm villas have a private balcony, double bed and spacious, fully equipped marble bathrooms. The villas were designed to offer greater privacy and exclusivity both inside and in the swimming pools and terraces.

    Suite

    All of the 80m² villas have a private balcony, double bed and spacious, fully equipped marble bathrooms. The villas were designed to offer greater privacy and exclusivity both inside and in the swimming pools and terraces.

    Tagor´ Villas

    The aboriginal Guanche people of the Canary Islands had a word for adult seclusion. They called it “Tagoror” – a peaceful place set apart from the village, where the elders of the tribe would meet to seek enlightenment and wise counsel. Inspired by this example, The Abama created Tagor’ Villas, an entire row of luxury rooms and suites in villas reserved just for adults. Situated in the lush tropical flower garden, with access to a delightful private pool, Tagor’ Villas is a secluded paradise, where guests can experience the very best that Abama has to offer in complete tranquility.

    As well as enjoying all the amenities of the villas, Tagor´ Villas guests can take advantage of a range of exclusive added benefits, including a villa attendant on call from 8:00 am to 11:00 pm throughout their stay. Perfect for honeymooning couples, or those searching for the ultimate in pampering, relaxation and escape.

    RESTAURANTS AND BARS

    M.B

    M.B is the signature restaurant of the renowned Basque chef Martín Berasategui. Martín’s all-consuming passion for cooking began early in his life: he learned his trade at the age of 14 while helping out at the San Sebastian fish restaurant owned by his mother.

    Ten years later Martín’s own restaurant in Lasarte had earned its first Michelin star, and by 2001 he had brought that number to three - the highest accolade for any chef, and a tally he has maintained to this day. Today, Martín’s inspired interpretations of gourmet cuisine have made him a household name throughout Spain and the rest of the world.

    His cooking is characterized not just by its creativity and inventiveness but also by a profound understanding of flavour and a deep respect for ingredients: qualities that can be found in abundance at M.B. The restaurant headed in Tenerife by Chef Erlantz Gorostiza has been recently awarded its first Michelin star. Children allowed from 6 years old onwards

    Kabuki

    Decorated in a stylishly minimalist colour palette of red and black, Kabuki is overseen by the Spanish chef Ricardo Sanz, whose restaurants in Madrid, Kabuki and Kabuki Wellington are considered as the best Japanese restaurants in Europe, both holding a Michelin Star.

    Ricardo is justly famous for his clever fusion of traditional Japanese influences and modern Western culinary techniques, as well as for his carefully sourced ingredients. Kabuki’s beautifully prepared sushi, sashimi and tempura dishes make highly imaginative use of Canary Island ingredients such as locally caught bluefish, along with exotic specialities such as Wagyu Kobe beef. Children allowed from 12 years old onwards

    El Mirador

    With a large, thatched roof and wooden beams inspired by the architecture of Bali, El Mirador (the viewpoint) certainly lives up to its name. It enjoys perhaps the most enviable location of all of our restaurants, right on the cliff’s edge near our villas, with magnificent panoramic views across the Atlantic ocean towards La Gomera island.

    Appropriately for the location, El Mirador specializes in locally sourced seafood. Open from lunchtime until late, the restaurant also benefits from a wonderful outdoor terrace and garden and its own secluded infinity pool, where you can drink in the view of the sunset with some poolside tapas or a cocktail.

    Pampa Verona

    The rustic cooking of Italy and Argentina share many qualities: in particular an emphasis on the freshest possible ingredients, prepared simply to allow natural, uncomplicated flavours to shine through. But it’s rare that the culinary traditions of both countries can be enjoyed in the same restaurant.

    At Pampa Verona, guests can choose between Italian staples such as fresh pasta dishes or Argentinean classics like hearty steaks grilled to perfection on an authentic parilla. The dining options may vary, but at Pampa Verona one thing is always assured: good, honest food, served in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

    La Veranda

    Do justice to the most important meal of the day at La Veranda, serving a superb buffet breakfast until 11 am every morning either indoors or on our sunny terrace. Our guests have their pick of more than 100 food specialties, including local fruit, freshly prepared pastries from our patisserie, Serrano hams and fresh fruit juices prepared to order, and show cooking.

    Refreshments include a full range of coffees and teas, or a glass of champagne if you prefer. La Veranda restaurant also opens its buffet for dinner with a wide range of Spanish and International dishes.

    Los Chozos

    Los Chozos is situated next to Abama’s luxurious main swimming pool, and serves light snacks, refreshments and cocktails to poolside sun loungers as well as more substantial lunches in its main dining area. Shaded by palm trees and with the pool just a few steps away, it’s a chance to sample local Canary Island specialties (don’t miss the papas arrugadas) in an informal, relaxed atmosphere.

    Casa Club

    Right at the heart of the golf course, surrounded by luxuriant palm groves, Casa Club is an idyllic spot for a light lunch between holes, or an early evening cocktail. The terrace offers stunning ocean views.

    Beach Club

    Situated on the beach facing La Gomera Island, the ocean-front Beach Club restaurant serves freshly prepared food, refreshments and cocktails until sundown. It’s the perfect place for lunch when you can’t bear to tear yourself away from the ocean. And where better to catch the most spectacular show on the island: the sight of the evening sun slowly dipping into the Atlantic?

    Spa Café

    After an indulgent spa treatment or a strenuous gym work-out, unwind in the spa café, serving a variety of refreshing herbal teas and fruit juices to rehydrate your body and soothe your senses. For those who have chosen the Abama Total Wellness program the Spa Café is one of your dining options.

    Wine Bar

    Wine connoisseurs can explore 20 grape varieties representing every area of Spain and the Canaries in our Wine Bar, which also serves delicious traditional Spanish tapas.

    Lobby Bar

    At the heart of the hotel, the seductive lobby bar is both a meeting point and a romantic evening destination, where you can enjoy live piano music and cocktails either from the comfort of the grand interior or the intimacy of the outdoor terrace.

    Tanganika Bar

    Cocktail culture meets African colonial style at the Tanganika bar, where you can enjoy lounge music and classic cocktails mixed to perfection in an atmospheric setting decorated with African-inspired art.

    Sports Bar

    Enjoy the big match with a proper pint of beer in The Abama's Sports Bar, styled on a traditional English pub. With several large plasma TVs, it’s the place to catch all of your favourite sporting events live on the big screen. Enjoy a game of pool between matches, or settle in for the evening with a bar menu that includes classics such as burgers and fish 'n' chips.

    LEE HARRISON OF MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL QUOTES
    "WE HAD LUNCH AT THE CASA CLUB, THE ABAMA GOLF CLUBS TERRACE RESTAURANT WITH STUNNING VIEWS OVER THE GOLF COURSE, THE HOTEL AND LA GOMERA ISLAND IN THE BACKGROUND, BEAUTIFULLY SERVED AND DELICIOUS. THE GOLF COURSE LOOKED IN TOP CONDITION AND QUITE CHALLENGING, WITH VERY GOOD FAIRWAYS,BUNKERS IN ALL OF THE RIGHT PLACES (OR THE WRONG PLACES THE WAY MY GOLF GAME GOES)AND EXTREMELY GOOD MANICURED GREENS"

    The Swimming Pools

    Surrounded by abundant plantlife and blessed with natural features and breathtaking sea views, each of the nine swimming pools feels part of the natural landscape, while retaining its own distinct character. The citadel’s main swimming pool is a long, unbroken expanse of water winding almost the entire length of the hotel past the Los Chozos restaurant, which serves drinks and snacks to poolside loungers.

    The citadel also has a pool reserved for adults to preserve a peaceful atmosphere, where guests can enjoy poolside massages by The Abamas fully qualified spa attendants.

    For ultimate seclusion, there is a third, very private pool in the Persian Garden. The first three tiers of villas have a private pool each, while the last shares its pool with the El Mirador restaurant. This beautiful infinity pool commands a magnificent location right on the cliff’s each, with views across the Atlantic to La Gomera island. A walk along the 30-metre jetty beside the beach will take you to the last of the pools: two natural ocean lagoons reclaimed from the volcanic rock at the foot of the cliff. Perfect for a reviving salt-water dip, or perhaps a spot of crab-watching.


    The Beach

    Carved from the sheer volcanic rock of the cliff-face, and accessible by the Hotels own funicular, Abama’s secluded beach is a paradise for sun- and seaworshippers. Stroll along a perfect crescent of golden sand, take a reviving swim in tranquil ocean waters, or simply curl up on one of the comfortable loungers, where you can soak in the views of La Gomera island while The Abamas waiters provide you with towels and refreshments.

    The ocean-front Beach Club restaurant serves freshly prepared light lunches and cocktails until sundown. Where better to catch the most spectacular show on the island: the sight of the evening sun slowly dipping into the Atlantic?


    Club Abami

    Abama isn’t just for grown-ups:  Children are looked after properly too. Open from 10am until midnight every day, Club Abami is our special activity club for kids aged between four and eleven years .

    The club offers the chance to learn new skills, make new friends and take part in a wide range of creative and action-packed activities, all under expert supervision. From cooking workshops and clay sculpture to face-painting, pirate treasure hunts and movie nights, your children will have so much fun that they’ll never want to leave. The Abama offers amongst others the following workshops:

    •Beach outing

    •Face painting

    •Treasure hunt

    •Family fair

    Babysitting & Baby Products:

    Babysitting Prices: •18 euros per hour (minimum 2 hours, for a maximum of 3 children)

    •No extra charge will be made for fractions of time, only for half an hour or an hour.

    • The cancellation policy entitles Abama to charge 25€ if service is cancelled with less than 24h in advance. For product prices please contact the Guest Relations department: guestrelationabama@ritzcarlton.com

    •Car seat in transfer from airport

    •Car seat in transfer to airport

    •Car seat for rental car

    •Car seat for rental car

    •High chair

    •Bottle warmer

    •Nappy changing mat

    •Steriliser

    •Baby Bathtub

    •Potty

    •Baby Bath and changing station

    •Baby walker

    •Baby bouncy chair

    •Pushchair parasols

    •Toddler guard rail for bed •Playpen

    •Travel Cot

    •Child Buggy w. sunshade (single occupant)

    •Normal buggy type pushchair

    •Chicco Pram, Pushchair & car seat combination

    •Child buggy (double occupants)

    •Microwave


    Boutiques

    Who needs the high street or the department store? If you’re in need of retail therapy, you’ll find it at Abama. Boutique Abama is the hotel’s high-end fashion destination, containing an excellent selection of womenswear, menswear, accessories and clothes for children from brands such as Burberry, Miu Miu and D&G. If you’re looking to utterly spoil your partner, look no further than the jewellery store, containing luxury accessories such as Vertu mobile phones and timepieces by Blancpain, Piaget, Omega and many others.

    The Bazar shop is well stocked with sundry essentials including international newspapers and magazines, sun and skincare products, books and postcards. The spa also has its own boutique selling Abama branded bathing costumes and an exclusive range of bath, shower, beauty, haircare and aromatherapy products, carefully chosen to be in tune with your well-being and the needs of the environment.

    Golf Course

    Dave Thomas put more than 50 years of experience of the professional golf industry into the creation of Abama’s golf course, now widely regarded as one of his greatest achievements. Rambling over 6,271 metres of ever-changing terrain, it features 22 lakes linked by impressive waterfalls and white-sand bunkers, and 25,000 palm trees.

    The course reaches a high point of 315 metres above sea level, and most holes provide spectacular views of the Atlantic and the island of La Gomera. The large greens provide an infinite choice of flag positions which, combined with the wide tee areas at each hole, makes the course accessible to players with high handicaps, and a challenge even for the most experienced golfer.


    Facilities

    Abama has all the facilities befitting a professional-standard course. Golfers have state-of-the-art electric golf buggies at their disposal, each equipped with an on-board GPS system displaying detailed information about every hole, and its own personal water cooler. To make sure thatgolfers keep well nourished at each stage of this demanding course, fresh fruit and water are available around the golf course. The exceptional club house includes dressing rooms, an outdoor rest and relaxation lounge and a shop stocked with a full range of professional golf equipment.

    Golf Academy

    While the golf course is challenging enough to test the most seasoned player, there’s plenty for beginners here too. At The Abama golf academy, less experienced golfers can develop their confidence and skills on the  five-hectare practice area, or try out one of the three par-3 holes for beginners, all under the expert supervision of  highly qualified trainers. There is also a superb driving range and a putting green. Open from 7.30 am until 7.30 pm. Starting times from 8.00 am to 2.00 pm, every 10 minutes.

    THE ESSENTIALS

    Conditions

    1. The handicap limit is 28 for men and 36 for ladies 2. Players are requested to bring their handicap certificates with them. 3. Golf shoes with soft spikes are required in all the courses. 4. Cancellations or changes must be communicated to our Reservations Office at last 2 days (48 hours) prior to the client’s tee time in order to avoid cancellation penalty of the complete green fee. 5. PRO's need to identify with their PGA licence in the club house at the arrival. 6. Green fees are subject to change without prior notice by the Hotel & Golf Courses.

    PRICES:

    Rates include IGIC

    FROM

    TO

    External Guests

    Guests from Abama

    Buggy

    01.05.11

    31.10.11

    200€

    118€

    Free

    01.11.11

    30.04.12

    200€

    126€

    Free







    Abama Total Wellness Programme

    Everybody’s health needs are different. But whether you want to lose weight, improve your fitness or simply feel refreshed and relaxed, The Abama can create a complete wellness programme to match.

    Each Abama Total Wellness programme starts with a consultation and diagnostic with one of the hotels fitness and nutrition experts, helping them to design an integrated package of spa treatments and exercise routines perfectly suited to your body’s requirements. And it doesn’t stop there. You’ll also have the option of personalised healthy eating menus at the spa café and each of the signature restaurants, and in-room therapeutic products.

    With Abama Total Wellness, the pampering doesn’t end when you leave the spa or the gym - it continues throughout every moment of your stay at the hotel.

    Five Pillars

    How are you feeling today? At Abama Spa, they offer treatments and packages tailor-made to suit your mood and requirements, from bathing rituals and beauty treatments to massages for couples and yoga classes for expectant mothers. But while they provide a highly personalised service that changes depending on individual needs, Abama Spa is also a truly holistic spa experience structured around the five pillars of wellbeing: rejuvenation, relaxation, revitalisation, balance and beauty.

    Providing a holistic experience means being in tune not just with the needs of our own bodies, but of our environment. At Abama, they are blessed with a landscape that provides an abundance of fruits, essential oils and minerals ideal for cleansing the body, purifying the skin and enhancing natural healing mechanisms.


    Spa treatments make liberal use of natural, local materials including volcanic stones, mineralizing marine algae, aromatic herbs and healing fruits such as papaya and banana. Combine these with time-honoured spa rituals derived from north Africa, Turkey and the Far East, and we can achieve a perfect synergy between body and nature

    Hydrotherapy

    Plunge into a sea of sensations in the thermal water circuit, inspired by the ancient Roman tradition of sequential thermal bathing. The centerpiece of the suite is the stunning hydrotherapy pool, with a range of jets and water features designed to stimulate and purge the lymphatic system. The suite also contains a sauna and a range of steam rooms including a fully equipped Turkish hammam.

    Other features include a cold plunge pool to activate circulation and an artificial snow cabin – one of the few in Europe. A bar serving water and fresh fruit juices will help you keep refreshed and hydrated. After the experience, guests are free to relax either on the Roman-style tepidarium, with its heated ceramic loungers and calming music, or in a fragrant garden with a cup of organic tea or a fresh juice. (opened only for adults above 18 yeards old)

    Rituals & Treatments

    East meets West at Abama Spa, where you can experience massages, therapies and treatments brought together from sub-tropical traditions around the globe, guided and performed by  highly qualified multinational therapists. From energising breathing rituals and massages to nourishing mud baths and body wraps, the Abama treatments will awaken the senses and leave your body and spirit feeling reborn.

    They also offer a comprehensive range of beauty treatments for men and women, including manicures, pedicures and hair removal, as well as cleansing and exfoliating facial treatments. No need to worry about the kids either – while you’re taking care of your health and beauty, the hotel can take care of the children at Baby Abami and Club Abami, their supervised activity clubs for children aged from just six months up to 12 years.

    Shared Experience

    If anything can improve the experience of being pampered in an indulgent spa, it’s the chance to share the experience with a loved one or close friend. At Abama Spa, they offer a choice of luxurious areas where two people can be treated in complete seclusion and privacy. The Safari and Colonial suites provide private dressing areas, terraces and room service meals, as well as special facilities such as double massage beds and steam showers for two.

    The Colonial suite features a large marble and mosaic whirlpool bath, scattered with rose petals, while the Meditation room gives couples ample room to enjoy oriental therapies on Japanese-style tatami mats. For those who prefer to receive their treatments outdoors they also offer a Thai-style Garden Cabana, where you can enjoy massages and therapeutic rituals among flowers, sunshine and birdsong.

    Fitness

    Tone your body, improve your metabolism and boost your energy-levels with a work-out in the gym, offering a full range of state-of-the-art cardiovascular and weight-training equipment. Each machine is fully adjustable to suit your level of fitness and comes with a TV screen and audio connection.

    Personal trainers are always on hand to provide supervision when needed and personal training programmes tailored to your fitness requirements. The gym also has an outdoor terrace and an activity room for group classes and supervised exercises including stretching, yoga and Qi-Gong.

    Spa Boutique

    At Abama Spa, you’ll never want the indulgence to end – and thanks to the spa boutique, it doesn’t have to. They sell a very special selection of biological and botanic bath, shower, beauty, haircare and aromatherapy products, all carefully chosen to be in tune with your wellbeing and the needs of the environment.

    The Boutique also stocks  holiday essentials such as swimwear, beach bags and bathrobes, and a range of organic tea blends grown locally and packaged exclusively for Abama.

    Tennis Courts

    Whether you’re a beginner looking for some basic training, a high-level pro wanting to take your game to the next level, or just a casual player, planning a knock-about with friends, you’ll find Abama has all the facilities that any tennis lover could ask for. As Abama’s seven tennis courts are often used for professional tournaments, all are of a professional standard, with court lights and flexi-pave surfaces in the style of the US and Australian Open courts.

    The centre court has capacity for 600 spectators, and the six other courts all have spectator stands. There are also  four illuminated paddle tennis courts with Astroturf surfaces. The Abama Sanchez Casal Tennis Academy follows the teaching methods pioneered by famous tennis players Emilio Sánchez Vicario and Sergio Casal. Personalised lessons and intensive courses are available for tennis players of any level. Prices: Tennis lesson: 40€/hour Tennis court: 10€/hour Paddle court: 20€/hour

    Paddle

    Whether you’re a beginner looking for some basic training, a high-level pro wanting to take your game to the next level, or just a casual player planning a knock-about with friends, you’ll find Abama has all the facilities that any tennis lover could ask for. The Hotel has four illuminated paddle tennis courts with Astroturf surfaces

    Tennis Academy

    The Abama Sanchez Casal Tennis Academy follows the teaching methods pioneered by famous tennis players Emilio Sánchez Vicario and Sergio Casal. Personalised lessons and intensive courses are available for tennis players of any level. Whether you’re a beginner looking for some basic training, a high-level pro wanting to take your game to the next level, or just a casual player planning a knock-about with friends, you’ll find Abama has all the facilities that any tennis lover could ask for.

    As Abama’s seven tennis courts are often used for professional tournaments, all are of a professional standard, with court lights and flexi-pave surfaces in the style of the US and Australian Open courts. The centre court has capacity for 600 spectators, and the six other courts all have spectator stands. They also have four illuminated paddle tennis courts with Astroturf surfaces.

    The Abama Sanchez Casal Tennis Academy follows the teaching methods pioneered by famous tennis players Emilio Sánchez Vicario and Sergio Casal. Personalised lessons and intensive courses are available for tennis players of any level.

    Conference & Meeting Rooms

    The imposing 1,500sqm multipurpose conference hall can be divided into up to 10 modular spaces, making it suitable for an event of any size or type, from senior executive meetings, conferences and product launches to exclusive incentive events or social celebrations.

    Some rooms have panoramic windows with stunning ocean views, and all have convenient access to outdoor or indoor areas that make ideal breakout spaces.

    Each room is fully equipped with the latest audiovisual equipment including video projectors, Bose sound systems and 3 x 2.50m remote-controlled projection screens. Internet access is available through our high-speed Wi-Fi ASDL network,and we provide a full range of secretarial, translation, hostess and stage assembly services. Outdoor areas such as the secluded Persian Garden can also be reserved for meetings and events.

    Weddings & Celebrations

    Some moments in your life are too important to leave anything to chance – and when you arrange a wedding, birthday or any other celebration at Abama, you won’t have to. The Abama staff are experienced event organizers and will take care of every detail of your special day.

    To make it even more unforgettable they can arrange banquet dining or catering organised by their gourmet chefs, special activities or accommodation for large groups.

    Special Events

    Looking for a very special location for a very special event? Abama’s cliff top terraces, ornamental gardens, pool side spaces and beautiful beach can provide wonderful settings for a truly memorable party or social gathering. From candle-lit banquets accompanied by live music by the sea, to intimate private cocktails for groups of friends in the Persian Garden, the Abama can create uniquely personalised experiences for any occasion and any size of group.

    LEE HARRISON OF MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL QUOTES
    "THE ABAMA IS A BEAUTIFULY LAID OUT RESORT, AND COVERS MANY ACRES. GOLF BUGGIES ARE AVAILABLE TO TRANSPORT YOU AROUND ALTHOUGH AT PEAK HOLIDAY PERIODS CAN BE BUSY. THE FINE DINING RESTAURANTS ARE EXTREMELY POPULAR, SO IMPORTANT TO BOOK EARLY AND EXPECT A LARGE BILL AT THE END!WE WOULD SUGGEST PRE-BOOKING A MEAL PLAN. IN PEAK TIMES WE WOULD ENVISAGE THAT THE BREAKFAST BUFFET WOULD BE BUSY, SO BEST NOT TO HAVE THAT LAY IN, AND GIVE YOURSELF PLENTY OF TIME.THE CHILDRENS CLUB IS EXCELLENT AND RUNS THROUGHOUT THE DAY AND WELL INTO THE EVENING.FOR GOLFERS,IT IS BEST TO PRE-BOOK A PACKAGE AS IT IS NOT CHEAP TO PLAY HERE, HAVING SAID THAT YOU WILL BE PLAYING ON A CHAMPIONSHIP STANDARD COURSE.WE LOVED OUR VISIT TO THE ABAMA AND WOULD LIKE TO GO BACK AGAIN AND STAY FOR A HOLIDAY, HIGHLY RECOMMENDED"
    Monday
    Apr092012

    THE KALKAN REGENCY OFFERS SOME OF THE FINEST SUITES IN KALKAN

    The Kalkan Regency is a stylish, intimate and exclusive hotel with a well deserved reputation of being one of the finest hotels along the entire coast of Turkey.

    An already exceptional hotel has recently become even better by doubling its grounds and creating a selection of contemporary suites - some with their own private pool and gardens. For those seeking, exclusivity, elegance, service, space and breathtaking views wherever you turn, we recommend the Kalkan Regency without hesitation. An already exceptional hotel has just become even better...

    The Owners of Malvern World Travel, Lee and Hilary Harrison have stayed here on several Occasions for their own Family Holidays with Daughter Katie,and Would have no hesitation in returning

    For More details call Lee or Hilary at Malvern World Travel on 01684 562406 or e-mail your enquiry to malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk or fill in our on-line enquiry form on the right hand navigation bar

    The Regency family are continually seeking to improve the already wonderful experience of staying at this fine hotel, and an incredible transformation has taken place over the past two years. The adjacent land has been acquired and the Kalkan Regency has now literally doubled the size of its grounds whilst only increasing the total number of rooms by five!

    The stunning pool has been improved even further with terraces and lawns extending out into the landscape and steps leading down to the new wild gardens with hammocks and shady spaces scattered throughout. These in turn lead onto the newly planted orchard.

    At the same time only eight new, entirely private, suites have been created. Each features a private pool, decking (some with additional garden) and has a contemporary minimalist design with feature walls of glass looking directly out to sea. Carefully designed 'into the landscape', these elegant structures have been created to make the most of the superb views out to sea with the feature walls of glass 'bringing the outside in'.

    Each Suite is named after the Star that it Sits under. Our Favourite Suites have to be The Penthouse Suite and The Garden an Pool Suites,The Suites also have there own Telescope to Discover The stars at Night. These are always the first Suites to sell and we do advise early booking.

    THE PENTHOUSE SUITE THE PENTHOUSE SUITE THE PENTHOUSE SUITE

    GARDEN AND POOL SUITE LYRA GARDEN AND POOL SUITE LYRA GARDEN AND POOL SUITE LYRA

    Additionally what were previously the Regency's two deluxe rooms have been entirely refurbished and six of the standard rooms have been beautifully upgraded to create three split-level suites – ideal for families, together with those seeking more space. The final act of the transformation being that each and every hotel rroom has been refreshed in keeping with the new-style Kalkan Regency! The Regency family - Nuri, Masuda, and their sons Dolunay and Aşkinay - are continually seeking to improve the already wonderful experience of staying at this fine hotel, and an incredible transformation has taken place over the past two years. The adjacent land has been acquired and the Kalkan Regency has now literally doubled the size of its grounds whilst only increasing the total number of rooms by five!

    The stunning pool has been improved even further with terraces and lawns extending out into the landscape and steps leading down to the new wild gardens with hammocks and shady spaces scattered throughout. These in turn lead onto the newly planted orchard. The pool itself has benefitted by the installation of an eco-friendly system which gently warms the pool for early & late season.

    The Kalkan Regency has always attracted a very loyal following amongst our Guests, a remarkable number of whom return year after year.

    It's not difficult to see why as the combination of idyllic position, elegance, ambience and superb service ensures that you immediately relax into the experience from the moment you arrive. Family run by Nuri and Masuda, and their sons Dolunay and Aşkinay, the attention to detail at every level is extraordinary, and the care and commitment shown to ensuring our Guests have the perfect holiday is second to none.

    Perhaps the most striking feature of the Regency is the magnificent panoramic view across the bay and harbour of Kalkan. Some variant of this wonderful sea view is apparent from virtually every aspect of the hotel.

    The focal point of Regency life is the inexcusably large swimming pool, larger than a tennis court, with an azure blue glimmer that is simply impossible to resist diving into. The pool area provides a temperate oasis for the sole use of Regency guests, surrounded by wooden loungers and parasols, and with an endless supply of fluffy towels to dry-off with after a cooling dip. The swim-up pool bar is another delight - you can enjoy a fine cocktail and a good book while the water laps your feet. The freshwater pool is surrounded by layers of terraces made from natural stone and peppered with uplifting shades of bougainvillea. From here, you can look out across the calm blue waters of Kalkan Bay making it impossible not to feel thoroughly 'on holiday' in style.

    A fantastic holiday needs fine food - and the Regency has an extraordinary reputation here as well. Breakfast and dinner are taken on the terraces of the Regency’s Seapoint restaurant, which is rightly considered one of the finest in Kalkan. The quality of the food is in no small part due to the use of fresh, organic ingredients which travel from ground to table in a matter of hours. Virtually all the produce is sourced from the hotel’s own organic farm located up in the mountains, with daily deliveries including fresh tomatoes, succulent cheeses, ripe dates, figs or apricots and an array of mouth-watering fruit.

    By night, Kalkan comes alive with twinkling lights and clinking glasses in the restaurants which surround the harbour. Dining out in one of the roof terrace restaurants - with an elevated view through the rooftops down to the harbour - is an experience not to be missed. The Regency is ideally positioned for nights out and is within walking distance of Kalkan’s many delights.

    If you are looking to be pampered during your stay, the Regency is perfect. With the Wellbeing Centre offering specialist beauty treatments, an award-winning Turkish Bath and a sauna, you have everything to hand. For those feeling active there is an air-conditioned gym and the Club Room offers table tennis, billiards, chess, backgammon, satellite television and DVDs.

    For those seeking, exclusivity, elegance, service, space and breathtaking views wherever you turn, we recommend the Kalkan Regency without hesitation. We are delighted to report that the brand-new Regency Pool Suites have received nothing but rave-reviews since they opened!

    Each of the eight new, entirely private, suites feature a private pool, decking and have a contemporary minimalist design with feature walls of glass looking directly out to sea.

    Carefully designed 'into the landscape', these elegant structures have been created to make the most of the superb views out to sea with the feature walls of glass 'bringing the outside in'. The private pools (heated by an eco-friendly system) ensure that you can have the best of both worlds with your own space for a dip, with the magnificent main pool easily accessible as you wish.

    Each suite is named after the star it sits beneath. You will discover they have not been named by accident whilst exploring the stunning night-skies with the telescope provided.

    Surrounded by the hotel gardens these minimalist, contemporary designs feel right at home, and you get the privacy and extraordinary space - both inside and out - when you want it, combined with the superb services of the finest hotel on the Lycian Coast.

    For More details call Lee or Hilary at Malvern World Travel on 01684 562406 or e-mail your enquiry to malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk or fill in our on-line enquiry form on the right hand navigation bar

    Tuesday
    Apr032012

    ESSENTIAL CROATIA FROM PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS, YESTERDAYS SECRET, TOMORROWS HOLIDAYS AND GREAT OFFERS

    Croatia - Yesterday’s Secret, Tomorrow's Holidays


    Croatia is the first of a new Essentially Prestige holiday destinations brochure.  This new brand of holidays offers a wider range of even more affordable holidays in not just Prestige Holidays usual 5 star hotels but in 3 and 4 star hotels too. There is lots of information here on the Croatia Product, do take a few minutes to read through and you will find some very interesting and exciting new options.

    TO BOOK OR FOR MORE DETAILS ABOUT ESSENTIAL CROATIA PLEASE CALL MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or e-mail malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk or www.malvernworld.travel

    PLEASE CLICK ON THIS LINK TO VIEW OUR LATEST SPECIAL OFFER POSTER FOR CROATIA. PLEASE ALLOW A SHORT TIME FOR THIS PDF TO DOWNLOAD

    Prestige Holidays Croatia Regions / Resorts


    ISTRIA

    Heart shaped peninsula of blue and green,  artists and poets, wine and olive oil roads, hilltop villages and beautiful bays, historic treasures and contemporary cool ...more

    ISTRIA - POREC ISTRIA-PULA ISTRIA-ROVINJ

    KVARNER

    One of Croatia’s best kept secrets. Fabulous seafood restaurants, stunning islands and a world class spa scene. Home to the new Festival Kvarner opening on 23 April in famous Opatija...more

    KVARNER- MOSCENICKA DRAGA KVARNER - OPATIJA KVARNER - RAB

    RAB

    Once a spot selected by British Royalty for lunch and a swim, a hauntingly striking island, dramatic rocks, verdant pastures plus some rare sandy beaches – 22 in total...more


    ZAGREB

    One of the most underrated capital cities in Europe. Gritty, historic, cultural with a hint of a fairytale, beautiful parks and great shopping...more

    ZAGREB ZAGREB - PALACE HOTEL ZAGREB

    ZADAR

    The yet to be discovered Dalmatian town with some eclectic and playful waterfront attractions and the rather special twinkling Night of the Full Moon party every July...more

    ZADAR ZADAR - FUNIMATION RESORT ZADAR - ADRIANA SELECT

    SPLIT

    Croatia’s second biggest city and a powerhouse of history, culture, sport, theatre, gossip, love, intrigue and sunshine...more

    SPLIT - PERISTIL SPLIT - MB NIKOLA CRUISE FROM SPLIT SPLIT

    HVAR

    Known as a haunt for the jet-set, yet Hvar has a gentler side of lavender heaths, tiny islands as your very own beach for the day and a head-turning waterfront...more

    HVAR HVAR - SUNDECK AT AMFORA HVAR

    BRAC

    Traditional fishing villages, pretty coves, terraces of vineyards and olive groves and a  white stone pavement winding through pine woods to the Croatian beach with a certain wow factor...more

    BRAC - SUPETAR BRAC - ZLATNI RAT BEACH BRAC - BOL

    MAKARSKA

    Buzzing, tree-lined waterfront, one of the best beaches in Croatia and watched over by the dramatic Biokovo mountains...more

    MAKARSKA MAKARSKA - BASKA VODA MAKASARKA - BRELA

    KORCULA

    An island of traditions, wine, olives, churches and towers, white stone piazzas and all of them look as though they are straight from a film set...more

    KORCULA - OREBIC KORCULA - OREBIC MARINA KORCULA

    DUBROVNIK

    Lives up to its name of ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’. Every stone tells a story yet this is no museum city. A glamorous living gem (and the most celebrated place in Croatia) ...more

    DUBROVNIK DUBROVNIK - CRUISE OUT OF DUBROVNIK DUBROVNIK - CAVTAT

    TWO CENTRE

    The best of both worlds is utterly achievable on a two-centre holiday in Croatia. Combining a few days sightseeing in a city with a few more days of sea and spa experience on the coast can be a perfect combination – especially if you have limited time...more

    CRUISES

    If you like exploring hideaway coves, small islands and waterfront villages and towns, in a relaxed atmosphere, then consider one of our cruises...more

    TO BOOK OR FOR MORE DETAILS ABOUT ESSENTIAL CROATIA PLEASE CALL MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or e-mail malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk or www.malvernworld.travel

    For many years the tourist board has used the slogan “the Mediterranean as it once was”.

    It’s a perfect description of this amazing little country of 1,244 islands of which approximately 50 are inhabited. There are few destinations less than a 3 hour flight from the UK that offer the diversity of Croatia. Most visitors head for the coast and islands where the pristine waters of the Adriatic are some of the cleanest in the world. More than 120 beaches and marinas have been awarded the coveted Blue Flag status.



    TO VIEW PHOTOGRAPHS WITH DESCRIPTIONS OF THE DUBROVNIK AREA,LOPUD, KOLOCEP, SIPAN AND MONTENEGRO AREAS PLEASE CLICK ON THE PHOTOGRAPH ALBUM ABOVE.PHOTOGRAPHS BY MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL CONSULTANT HALEY PEOPLES

    From the air, Croatia’s coastline is breathtakingly beautiful as deep, emerald pine woods descend to the shore, then white stone beaches and islands sparkle before the bright sapphire blue of the Adriatic sea hits your eyes. This is Croatia’s wow factor.

    This new country which became independent in 1991 (Happy Birthday Croatia on 25th June, 20 years on!) has a long and colourful history. Liburnian, Illyrian and other tribes, the Romans, Venetians. Hungarians and Ottomans have all left their cultural stamp.

    In some places, tiny stone houses and temples are still standing from Illyrian times and national treasures also include Roman relics, medieval walled cities, churches, basilicas, palaces and temples in styles from Byzantine to Baroque. Exquisite stone carvings are seen on buildings in even the smallest places and the cobbled streets of quaint villages and towns lead to a hidden cloister here or a beautiful piazza there. Simply stunning.

    So what of contemporary Croatia? Croatians on the coast enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle with the flair and charm of the Italians just across the water. Customs such as the afternoon siesta in summer and the ‘corsa’ evening walk are all here, as are festivals of dance, music and tradition using the open air treasures as a stage.

    Service is usually of a high standard in even the simplest of restaurants and the world’s brand names are available in quality shops and stores.

    Temperatures in July and August, the hottest months, are 28 – 30°C. April, May and October are pleasant (around 17 – 21°C), June and September are usually sunny (around 25°C).

    Closer than you think too. Flight times are short. London to Pula is 2 hours, to Zagreb, Zadar and Split between 2-2 hours 20 minutes and to Dubrovnik 2 hours 30 minutes. Add 15 to 30 minutes for departures from Birmingham, Manchester, East Midlands, Edinburgh and Belfast.

    Wherever you choose on the coast or islands, less than a 2 hour drive inland will take you into a different world of national parks, forests, waterfalls, mountains and rural traditions. We strongly recommend taking some excursions or hiring a car to explore. Driving on Croatia’s uncrowded roads is a breeze.

    

    FACTS

    Croatia is a modern country with a strong tradition in tourism and is now one of the most sought after destinations in Europe. Standards are high, people take pride in their work and resorts are kept clean and well preserved.

    MONEY

    The Croatian currency is the Kuna divided into 100 lipa and is readily available at most UK airports. However, the rate of exchange is often better in Croatia. Therefore, we suggest obtaining a small amount of currency this way. Once in Croatia you can use cash machines (most airports and in town centres), local exchange offices, banks and at hotel receptions. Sterling is easily exchanged so it is a waste of time and money to take Euros to Croatia. Credit cards are accepted widely in larger establishments and at hotels: Croatia is expected to join the European Union around 2013.

    DRIVING AND CAR HIRE

    There’s no need to be nervous about driving in Croatia. This is a small country (from Dubrovnik in the south to Zagreb in the north is 242 miles) and there are just 4.4 million inhabitants. New toll motorways are excellent and connect Zagreb to Istria and Kvarner regions and onward south into the Dalmatia region to midway between Split and Dubrovnik. Roads are well signposted and traffic police usually speak English.

    The Adriatic coast road and some of the roads on the islands twist here and there. Hiring a car, even for a few days of your stay, will allow you to see more of the country off the beaten track and self-drive from your arrival airport is sometimes quicker than a transfer.

    EXCURSIONS AND ACTIVITIES

    There are boat trips from almost everywhere on the coast and from the islands and a day out on a fish picnic will allow you to enjoy the Adriatic, relax and explore small coves and ports. We offer a full excursion programme to historic places, national parks, famous cities, islands – details will be sent with your documents. If you are staying in the Istria or Kvarner regions then a day trip to neighbouring Italy (Venice) or Slovenia is easy and if in the Dubrovnik region, a day trip to Montenegro, Croatia’s southern neighbour, is worth doing.

    Croatia has eight national parks, three of them are easily reached from Zadar alone. With a coastline like Croatia’s a lot happens in the sea including watersports, diving and sea kayaking.

    FOOD AND WINE

    On the coast and islands, fi sh and seafood feature heavily. Risotto and pasta dishes are divine (often with seafood) and every region produces its own dried ham in a slightly different way (if you know the Parma ham of Italy then you’ll like Dalmatian and Istrian prsut). Blitva is an interesting mix of potato and mangold (a kind of spinach) often served with grilled fish. The best scampi (like a giant langoustine) comes from the Kvarner Bay. Oysters and mussels from near Rovinj, Ston and almost everywhere in Dalmatia serves shellfish. The Peljesac peninsula is a famous wine growing area from where the full bodied Dingac red comes. Croatian olive oil is high quality and used widely in cooking. Konobas are smaller, often family run restaurants and offer good value for money. Daily dishes and specials are usually a great choice. 

    CULTURE, HERITAGE, FESTIVALS

    Croatia is predominantly a Catholic country with many celebrations and religious festivals. In addition, there are often music, film, drama, sporting and festivals of gastronomy. If you are in Istria during truffle season (mid September to late October) you’ll see how this ‘Istrian gold’ is celebrated!

    The Split Summer Festival and the Dubrovnik Summer Festival (both July-August) are probably the best known events where Croatian and international artistes perform. Tickets are reasonably priced.

    The Festival Kvarner is a new festival and is the dream of a young Austrian conductor. Prestige Holidays clients who are in resort on concert dates (23 April then June, October and December) will receive complimentary tickets. If you are in your 20s or 30s or have teenage children, then think Zadar and the famous Garden festival.

    Croatia has seven UNESCO World Heritage sites: Split and the Palace of Diocletian, the old city of Dubrovnik, the complex of the Euphrasian Basilica in Porec, the historic city of Trogir, Cathedral of St James in Sibenik, the Stari Grad Plain on the island of Hvar and the Plitvice Lakes National Park.

    REPRESENTATIVES AND TRANSFER TIMES

    We have representatives in all resorts with the exception of the island of Rab, at the Casa Oraj farmhouse near Lovran, at the Eco Centre volunteer experience on the island of Cres and at lighthouses. We provide a telephone contact for emergencies.

    The transfer times we have shown are based on our experience of Croatia. If a flight is late, a ferry crossing may be missed, the transfer time will obviously be increased. The transfer journey itself is often spectacular as in Rijeka or Zadar airports to the island of Rab, or Dubrovnik to the islands of Sipan, Lopud and Korcula. The longest ferry crossing is from Split to Hvar which may take one hour and 30 minutes. Many of the ferry transfers are extremely short, some are just 10 to 20 minute crossings. Transfers to lighthouses are subject to tides and may involve some waiting.

    HOTEL DESCRIPTIONS AND FACILITIES

    We try hard to ensure that all descriptions are as accurate as possible but people are only human and hotel management/policy can change. So, a few honest words about this: We show only the official star rating for each hotel.

    Air-conditioning – most of our hotel rooms/ apartments have this. If you don’t see this mentioned in the room description it means that there is no air-conditioning.
    Lifts – every hotel has a lift unless we categorically say ‘no lift’.
    Disabled rooms and access – many properties have these but availability may be limited. Please contact us.
    Entertainment and watersports – these are individually run by a hotel or property. Each hotel has a different policy and these facilities may not always be available for the entire season. Let us check if something is important to you.
    Wellness and spa centres – please check locally as some offer free entry and free use of certain services, others make a small charge. All massage and beauty treatments are payable direct by guests to the provider.
    Sunbeds – please check locally as some places may make a small charge for this.
    Tea and coffee making facilities – this is less common in Croatia and if it exists in hotel rooms, we say so.
    Bath or shower – some hotels have both, others have either bath or shower. We will do our best to accommodate your request and will advise what is available at the time of booking.
    Meals – many hotels offer buffet style meals for guests on half or full board basis but this may change. If drinks are included with meals at hotels we say this in our description.
    Television – there are usually one or two channels in English and more in other languages. Croatian television features a number of English programmes and English/American feature films are screened in English with Croatian sub-titles.

    CROATIAN CONNECTIONS

    We are proud of our connections with Croatian tourism professionals and we support Croatian businesses wherever possible. Most of the properties we feature are either privately owned by Croatian individuals or families, by the Croatian authorities (some lighthouses) or by the following hotel companies: Milenij Hotels, Bluesun Group, Valamar, Maistra, Adriatic Luxury Hotels, Iberostar, Imperial Rab, Liburnia Riviera Hotels and Excelsa Group.

     

    TO BOOK OR FOR MORE DETAILS ABOUT ESSENTIAL CROATIA PLEASE CALL MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or e-mail malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk or www.malvernworld.travel

    Thursday
    Mar152012

    How can I Book The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (Ravla Khempur)in India

    FOLLOW IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF THE BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL ‘GUESTS’ & CAST

    The Best Most Exotic Marigold hotel is a fantastic film set in and around Udaipur in India.If you haven't seen it yet, it is well worth a vist to your local Cinema.

    The Hotel itself is actually THE RAVLA KHEMPUR, about an hours drive from Udaipur in Rajasthan, and is home to Hemant Singh Deval, a well known Horse breeder. The Stables are well worth a visit and are home to the owners Prized Mewari Horses.To Book call Malvern World Travel on 01684 562406 or e-mail malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

    Those inspired by the exotic charms of India in the hit British comedy The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, released last week, can follow in the characters’ footsteps on a special private journey with Malvern World Travel inconjunction with TransIndus – The India Travel Company. There is also the opportunity to choose between a stay at the Ravla Khempur, otherwise known as ‘The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel’, or upgrade to the uber luxury Oberoi Udai Vilas where the cast stayed during filming.

    With an all-star line-up including Judi Dench, Maggie Smith, Celia Imrie, Bill Nighy and Dev Patel, the film follows a group of retirees as they embark on an Indian adventure, which sees the Best Exotic Marigold Hotel guests' lives transformed by their experiences and the friendships they make. Though set in Bangalore, the film was actually shot in the beautiful lake-city of Udaipur and the pink city of Jaipur, and it showcases them at their very finest.


    Nestled in the town of Khempur, the Ravla Khempur Heritage Hotel makes for a memorable stay for all types of travelers.One Night here is just not enough. ‘Ravla’ in Rajasthan refers to the home of a village chieftain or a local castle.Just like the film, the setting is stunning, but if you are looking for a 5 star Property where everything Works,then the hotel might not be for you and we would suggest an upgrade to the uber luxury Oberoi Udai Vilas where the cast stayed during filming!

    The setting is rural and if you want to discover the famous Rajasthani Culture it is still in tact with rich traditional roots that have been lost in other parts of India.This is India at it's most enticing and seduces those who are looking to discover local traditions and customs.

    History

    The castle, now a heritage hotel has an interesting history. Seeking to avenge the killing of his brother, an enemy plotted to assassinate the young Prince Jagat Singh of Mewar. However, Khemraj Dadhivadia thwarted his plans. To honor him, Mewar’s Maharana rewarded the young man with a village and named it Khempur.

    Accommodation

    The Ravla Khempur Heritage Hotel boasts of 10 Suites and offers modern amenities to the guests without compromising on the heritage feel of the rooms. Every room has a canopied balcony(known as Gokhara, traditional Bay window) so that the guests can enjoy the outstanding lovely views and covered with thisc cushions, perfect for lazy afternoons whilst having a Sundowner. The furnitue is from an older more gracious time, mostly wooden with carvings and covered in Beautiful printed cottons known as Bandhani.

    Dining

    This heritage hotel in Rajasthan has a no-menus policy and offers authentic Mewari cuisine to its esteemed guests. Continental and traditional Indian breakfast is available in the mornings while dinner is an elaborate affair and relished while enjoying a cultural program after a horse dance performance.

    Recreation

    A host of recreation options are made available to guests at the Ravla Khempur Heritage Hotel, these include horse riding and safari, camel safari, jeep safari, village sightseeing, mini library, riding classes, horse dance and cultural evening and Gavri – a tribal folk dance.

    Other Facilities

    Doctor-on-call, laundry service, cycle hire, car hire, room service, travel desk and car park are some of the other facilities provided by the hotel.

    City Information

    Also known as the ‘city of lakes’, Udaipur is a heritage lover’s dream come true. Speckled with many lakes and ancient architectural marvels, the city attracts scores of tourists all year round.

    Best Exotic Marigold Hotel break

    Captivated by the sights on the big screen? Now see them for real on Malvern World TrvelS 11 day private tour in conjunction with Transindus. Begin by discovering the famous Golden Triangle sites of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur in northern India. Combine culture and adventure in Delhi with a visit to the Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India, take in the busy bazaars of Chandni Chowk, and explore the many medieval Moghul buildings. The magnificent Taj Mahal and Agra Fort are the highlights in Agra, while Jaipur offers a selection of palaces and forts to discover. Fly to the romantic city of Udaipur, with its magical lake setting, backed by the rolling Aravalli hills, where the highlight of the trip is a boat ride on Pichola Lake with a candle-lit dinner. Guests stay at the Ravla Khempur, the fictional Best Exotic Marigold Hotel for three nights.

    Itinerary

    Day 1 Fly from London to Delhi on an overnight flight.

    Day 2 You will be met on arrival and transferred to the Maidens Hotel for two nights. The remainder of the day is free to relax.

    Day 3 Enjoy a full day's sightseeing tour of the historical city of Delhi. Begin in the wide avenues of New Delhi, built by the British as the new seat of the government. Our tour will take in the buildings of Lutyens and the India gate memorial, along with the impressive tomb of Humayan, an early Mughal structure of red sandstone and white marble. The bustling and vibrant streets of Old Delhi are the focus of the afternoon's activities. Visit the largest mosque in India known as the Jama Masjid and Rajghat, the resting place (Samadhi) of India's favourite son, Mahatma Gandhi. The day's sightseeing ends with a rickshaw ride through the convergent bazaars of Chandni Chowk, the main trading centre of Old Delhi.


    Day 4 In the morning we drive to Agra, Stay at the Trident Hotel for the night. Visit the Agra Fort this afternoon, followed by a sunset visit to the Taj Mahal.


    Day 5 After a leisurely breakfast drive to Jaipur, stopping en-route at the abandoned city of Fatehpur Sikri. Once the capital of Emperor Akbar the city is a complex of monuments and temples built from red sandstone. Stay two nights at the Alsisar Haveli. The afternoon is free to explore the local surroundings or relax at your own leisure.


    Day 6 A full day's sightseeing tour of the colourful city of Jaipur is organised today. In the morning enjoy an excursion to the hilltop fort at Amber, with the possibility of reaching on elephant back. The afternoon is spent exploring the old city, home to the City Palace and its museums, the Hawa Mahal and the Jantar Mantar Observatory.


    Day 7 Fly to Udaipur today, for a three night stay at the Ravla Khempur Hotel – The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel – for three nights.

    Day 8 In the morning visit the City Palace, Rajasthan's largest, built entirely of granite and marble. The sightseeing tour also takes in the ornamental gardens of Sahelion Ki Bari and the Jagdish Temple, which dominates the city's skyline.


    Day 9 Day at leisure.

    Day 10 Morning and afternoon at leisure. Fly to Mumbai this evening.

    Day 11 Connect with your flight to London, leaving Mumbai just after midnight, arriving in Heathrow the same morning.

    Price: from £1,498 per person sharing a twin/double room, including eight nights’ B&B accommodation. Valid from April to September 2012.To Book call Malvern World Travel on 01684 562406 or e-mail malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

    Tuesday
    Feb142012

    EGYPT ,Exotic and romantic full of Nostalgia and a holiday of a lifetime tailor-made just for you

    Egypt holidays have so much to offer, with the timeless Nile, the ancient cities and the fabulous Red Sea beaches, the choices are endless. The diving in the Red Sea is some of the best in the world and there are many fine hotels to choose from. Lee Harrison of Malvern World Travel enjoyed a Nile Cruise a few years back, and found it to be one of the most relaxing  and interesting Holidays to go on.

    Egypt holidays are truly a unique experience and this mystical land has been enchanting and intriguing travellers across the centuries. Egypt is a land steeped in history and her awe-inspiring scenery ranges from coral reefs and fine, sandy beaches to the fertile banks of the Nile; whichever stunning location you choose, you won't be disappointed.

    If you really want to explore this fascinating country then why not consider one of our multi-centre holidays in Egypt, combining different elements of her stunning treasures to make the perfect holiday for you? In fact, whatever you want from your holiday, whether you want to immerse yourself in history or simply soak up the sun, we are sure to have something to suit you.

    The Nile & Egypt's Ancient Cities


    Whether you are taking a trip down the Nile in one of our luxury Nile cruisers, or immersing yourself in the hustle and bustle of old Cairo, your Egypt holiday is sure to centre on her impressive history. The Great Pyramid of Giza is the only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World to remain intact today, and most of those planning holidays to Egypt will want to include a visit to see the pyramids, the Sphinx and the tombs of the Valley of the Kings. These, together with the Temples of the Nile, are just some of the reasons why everyone should take a holiday to Egypt at least once in their lifetime.

    With the benefit of the insight of one of Anatolian Sky's experienced Egyptologists, you will uncover a whole world of gods and goddesses, pharaohs and royal intrigues together with an elaborate system of beliefs about life and death.

    The stunning city of Luxor overlooks the Nile, site of ancient Thebes, it is an open-air museum and home to two of Egypt's most impressive temples, the Temple of Luxor and the Temple of Karnak.

    It's not surprising that Nile Cruise holidays have been popular since Victorian times, there is simply no better way to explore the mysteries and treasures of ancient Egypt - a truly memorable holiday

    If you are interested in exploring Egypt's fascinating past, River Nile cruises are an excellent option. The Nile is widely considered to be the longest river in the world, and its northernmost section starts in the deserts of Sudan and flows north through Egypt to end its journey in the Mediterranean Sea. The Nile is at Egypt's very heart - the fertile river valley giving sustenance to her people, most of whom live on the shores of the Nile. It was as important in ancient times as it is today and its banks are home to many of ancient Egypt's most fascinating treasures.



    River Nile cruises have been favoured by travellers in Egypt since the beginnings of tourism and were a staple of the Victorians' Grand Tour, in fact the first steamships were introduced to the Nile in 1869. Things have come a long way since then and the boats which we have chosen offer the highest standards of modern comfort and service, with fastidious attention to hygiene, a true luxury Nile cruise experience. During your cruise, life on board is a very civilised mix of sightseeing and relaxation - exploring ancient temples and watching life on the riverbank as you pass by; ancient farming traditions which have changed little over hundreds, or even thousands of years.

    Whichever boat you choose, all of Anatolian skys River Nile cruises visit the same sites, although the order and timings may vary slightly from the itineraries shown here. Most days on board will start early in order to avoid the heat of the midday sun whilst sightseeing. You will usually have a chance to relax later in the day. Choose to read in the shade on deck or take a refreshing dip in the pool. Modern-day sun-worshippers will relish the opportunity to soak up some rays whilst admiring the views of the Nile.

    Quite a sociable way to travel, River Nile cruises are also suitable for those travelling on their own. Given the early mornings, however, many people choose to retire early although there is usually entertainment on board after dinner on at least two nights of your luxury Nile cruise - typically this is a Galabiya party, where you have the opportunity to dress up in traditional attire, or a Nubian show, a chance to experience the local culture. Please note that the captain may need to change the itinerary for your cruise depending on prevailing weather conditions, water level, river traffic or other circumstances. The itinerary will also change during the period that the Esna Lock is closed for maintenance.

    M.S Nile Premium

    Nile Cruise, North Africa

    One of the Nile's newest and most luxurious boats - exclusive to Anatolian Sky and highly rated by Previous Clients that Malvern World Travel have sent in the last two years having experienced the facilities for ourselves.

    General Details
    Launched at the end of 2008, the M.S Nile Premium's ambience is sophisticated and chic. Decorated predominantly in neutral tones, its dark wood lending it a Colonial feel, it is stylish without being fussy; modern whilst retaining warmth. The M.S Nile Premium offers its guests a truly elegant cruising experience, with all of the latest features to ensure the safety and comfort of those aboard. The lounge bar with its attractive terrace area is the perfect place for a pre-dinner drink and the large, well-appointed restaurant serves a delicious range of international and regional cuisine. Evening entertainment on board the M.S Nile Premium includes traditional belly-dancing and a Galabiya party.



    The Red Sea


    Impressive as her history is, in recent years, beach holidays in Egypt have become almost as well known as Nile cruises. Sun-seekers choose Egypt for the stunning sandy beaches and year-round sun. We have chosen to feature some of the best of the Red Sea resorts, with their fine sandy beaches, clear warm waters and favourable climate, not to mention their top class hotels. The Red Sea is famous for its coral reefs and rich sea-life and its resorts are a favourite with both seasoned and novice divers.

    Romantic Holidays & Honeymoons


    With its exotic history, stunning beaches and luxury hotels, Egypt meets all the requirements for a dream honeymoon or romantic holiday. Why not talk to our reservations team who can help you plan a tailor-made itinerary to suit your own unique requirements ensuring you have the holiday of a lifetime? Egypt holidays are truly a unique experience and this mystical land has been enchanting and intriguing travellers across the centuries. Egypt is a land steeped in history and her awe-inspiring scenery ranges from coral reefs and fine, sandy beaches to the fertile banks of the Nile; whichever stunning location you choose, you won't be disappointed.

    If you really want to explore this fascinating country then why not consider one of our multi-centre holidays in Egypt, combining different elements of her stunning treasures to make the perfect holiday for you? In fact, whatever you want from your holiday, whether you want to immerse yourself in history or simply soak up the sun, we are sure to have something to suit you. Just call Malvern world Travel on 01684 562406 for more details and to check availability and prices or e-mail malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk