The latest newsletter from The International Travel Writers Alliance, providing key information, in a no-frills format, for professionals who travel to write, edit, broadcast or create images. Keeping you up to date with opportunities, industry news, leads, events and feature ideas.

Providing key information in a no-frills format for professionals who travel to write, edit, broadcast or create images.

Issue number 11 : April 2007

Editor: Ashley Gibbins: travelwritersalliance@williamjack.co.uk

In this issue

- Opportunities

Press trips to Qu�bec City Press trip to Hamburg Self-guided walking and cycling Press trip to Lithuania Women in Wine weekends in Bordeaux Press trip to Shakespeare Country : Friday 20 to Sunday 22 April

- Industry news - Leads - Reasons to write about �

The Eurovision Song Contest, Helsinki Wild West World, Wichita, Kansas The 2007 Transatlantic Adventure Rally Unique New Zealand wildlife experiences Luxury golf resorts Adult ranching The Cretan Wine Festival Riding in India and Argentina Crewed gullets in Turkey & Cephalonia The Bloukrans Bungee at Tsitsikamma o Petit St Vincent

- A place to stay Curtain Bluff, Antigua Rockwater Secret Cove Resort, British Columbia The Adlon Kempinski Hotel, Berlin For the Edinburgh Festivals The Hotel Es Moli, Mallorca Anahita, Mauritius The Loden, Vancouver, British Columbia The Emirates Marina Hotel & Residence, Dubai The Ocean Tower, Pattaya

- Contacts

Opportunities

Here are opportunities for Alliance members that have come through in the last couple of weeks.

For a list of all opportunities visit www.internationaltravelwritersalliance.com and click on opportunities.

Press trips to Qu�bec City Qu�bec City is celebrating its 400th anniversary during 2008 and is inviting Alliance members to visit the city with a view to editorial appearing in 2007 and early 2008. Celebrations in Qu�bec City � the only walled city in North America � will begin on New Year�s Eve this year and run right through to October �08. Steeped in history and lying on the banks of the great St Lawrence river, this city epitomises all that Qu�bec is about. It was named by the �first Nations� people as Kebec or narrowing of the river, and is the meeting point of French and North American culture that blend to create the best of both worlds. It is also set against a background of stunning countryside with luxury wilderness resorts, whale and wildlife watching, gourmet and wine routes and great cuisine. Alliance members looking to arrange visits to Qu�bec with a view to editorial appearing in �07 to early �08 should contact Caroline Corfield at caroline@corecommunications.co.uk.

Press trip to Lithuania : 22 to 26 May 2007

The Lithuanian Tourism Office invites journalists and travel writers with commissions to visit Lithuania between 22 and 26 May.

Lithuania, officially the Republic of Lithuania, is a country in northern Europe, which is situated along the southeastern shore of the Baltic Sea. It shares borders with Latvia to the north, Belarus to the southeast, Poland, and the Russian exclave of the Kaliningrad Oblast to the southwest. Lithuania has been a member state of the European Union since 1 May 2004.

The tour will start in Vilnius and has been timed to coincide with the annual Folklore Festival that takes place then.

This is mainly out of doors, on stage, in the street, formal and informal. Vilnius of course will be particularly important in 2009 when it becomes European Capital of Culture.

Lithuania is something really different compared with other countries in Eastern Europe, so that�s why Lithuania is growing so quickly as an attractive tourist destination.

On the other hand, this country is not yet being well explored and it is not easy to choose a route or to decide what to see � there are so many places of distinctive and unique beauty, lots of entertainment and experiences awaiting foreign visitors.

However the main focus of this tour will be outside Vilnius, as far too few British visitors ever leave the capital.

For a full itinerary visit : www.internationaltravelwritersalliance.com and go to opportunities.

Visit : Tourism@lithuanianembassy.co.uk Contact : Indre Trakimaite at Tourism@lithuanianembassy.co.uk

Self-guided walking and cycling

Inntravel has doubled the number of mini versions of its popular self-guided walking and cycling weeks in its latest short breaks brochure, A Taste of Inntravel.

Among the 17 new weekends and short breaks in Europe and beyond is a range of City & Walking combinations which offer the best of both worlds, such as the city of Porto with the Douro Valley, or Marrakech with the High Atlas Mountains.

Also extended is the range of Walking Discoveries with stays at a hotel of character set in splendid scenery and the use of a hire car to explore the area.

All these shorter versions of Inntravel holidays serve as the perfect introduction to the relaxed Inntravel style of �active� holiday. In a separate mini-supplement, Inntravel also offers 23 classic breaks to country auberges that offer a gastronomic experience, as well city breaks to Bruges, Paris, Arras and Lille.

Its breaks also include :

Spain : Dramatic Landscapes of Almeria, Heart of Andalucia, The Aracena Sierra, Mallorca�s Tramuntana Sierra, Hidden Valleys of the Garrotxa (cycling), Catalan Coves & Castles, Hidden Catalonia

Italy : Quiet Mountains of the Apennines, Paths of the Dolomites, Lake Iseo � Jewel of Lombardy

France : Timeless South-West France, The Best of Roman Provence, Scented Hills of Provence

Switzerland : In the Shadow of the Matterhorn

Portugal : Porto & the Douro Valley

Morocco : Marrakesh & Beyond, Marrakesh & the High Atlas.

Visit www.inntravel.co.uk.

Alliance members wishing to discuss sampling one of these holidays should contact Julia Spence at julia.spence@ukonline.co.uk.

Press trip to Hamburg : 20 April 2007

AIDAdiva, the first of four new AIDA cruise/club ships, will be named during a spectacular light show in the Port of Hamburg on the evening of 20 April 2007.

The Hamburg Marketing and Hamburg Tourism have put together a programme to show journalists Hamburg from the water during these �AIDA� days:

On round trips aboard historic vessels on the Alster and in the port participants will see Hamburg as a port of call for cruises, its new �HafenCity� and the legendary Hamburg fish market.

The programme starts at approx. 2 pm on Friday, 20 April, with a guided city tour, followed by a boat trip on the Alster lake in the heart of the Hanseatic City.

The naming ceremony starts at 9.30 pm on Friday night with a VIP reception. The programme finishes at about 12.30 pm on Sunday, 22 April.

Places will be allocated on a first come first served basis.

Contact Barbara Geier at the German National Tourist Office at barbara.geier@d-z-t.com.

Women in Wine weekends in Bordeaux

Ecole du Vin de Bordeaux (Bordeaux wine school) and the Bordeaux Label are running weekend wine courses for wine-loving women.

The three-day, Friday-to-Sunday, courses (20 - 22nd April and 8 � 10 June) allow the students to take advantage of the economical air routes to Bordeaux. (Travellers can fly from Birmingham, Manchester, London, Southampton and Bristol using British Airways, EasyJet, Flybe or bmi baby).

British wine tutor and Bordeaux resident, Wendy Narby will host the weekend on behalf of the Council for Bordeaux Wines (CIVB).

Away from the classroom, students can soak up the Bordeaux atmosphere shopping in the city centre, bustling through the busy Latresne farmers market (ahead of a private demonstration lunch) and enjoying the culture of the Medieval city of Saint Emilion.

After all the learning and sightseeing, students can digest the very best of what Bordeaux has to offer � delectable food and first-class world-famous wine.

The Women in Wine group will be the guests of Ch�teau La Lagune�s owner Caroline Frey; Ch�teau Malartic Lagravi�re�s owner/winemaker Severine Bonnie; and Ch�teau Rauzan Gassies�s owner, Anne-Fran�oise Qui�.

The cost is 855Euro per person (sharing a twin room, based on a group of 20 participants).

Press places may be available for commissioned articles.

Visit : www.ecole.vins-bordeaux.fr. Contact : Natasha Claxton natasha@randr.co.uk.

Press trip to Shakespeare Country : Friday 20 to Sunday 22 April

South Warwickshire Tourism is running a press trip in conjunction with our �Living the History� campaign from Friday 20 to Sunday 22 April. There are 12 places available (6 journalists plus partners).

The itinerary :

Friday 20 April

Dinner at the Stratford Victoria Hotel

Saturday 21 April

Visit to the Lord Leycester Hospital, Warwick Castle to experience their new attraction �Dream of Battle�, Mill Dene Gardens, pre-theatre supper at The Mallory Court (Warwickshire�s only Michelin starred restaurant) and theatre tickets to see The Seagull or Macbeth at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre.

Sunday 22 April

Explore Stratford at your own leisure with tickets to see Shakespeare�s Birthplace and Mary Arden�s house to experience �Living history� as well as other top attractions including The Stratford Butterfly Farm and Shakespeariance.

Visit : www.shakespeare-country.co.uk. Contact : Tanya Lavin at tanya@marketingaloud.co.uk or on 01926 620028

Industry news

Bradt/ The Independent on Sunday travel writing competition

Entries are now being sought for the fourth Bradt/ The Independent on Sunday travel writing competition. The closing date for entries is Tuesday 17 April 2007.

The competition is open to all writers, published or unpublished, and invites submissions not exceeding 800 words.

For the first time the competition also includes a further prize category specifically for unpublished writers, with the winner receiving a place on a creative-writing course in Granada, Spain, provided by Travellers� Tales, the training agency for travel writing and photography (www.travellerstales.org).

Visit : www.bradtguides.com. Contact : Felicity Stanbridge at felicity.stanbridge@bradtguides.com.

Extreme weather website

National weather services from across the European Union have joined forces to create www.meteoalarm.eu, a new website providing up-to-the-minute information on 'extreme weather' across the continent.

Web TV

The MyTravel Group is to launch seven new web television channels in partnership Webrom TV. The �on demand� channels from MyTravel, Going Places, Direct Holidays, Panorama Holidays, Cresta Holidays, Tradewinds and Airtours will be accessible to broadband viewers from the homepage of each of these brands :

www.mytravel.com www.goingplaces.co.uk www.directholidays.co.uk www.panoramaholidays.co.uk www.crestaholidays.co.uk www.tradewinds.co.uk www.airtours.co.uk

Visit : www.webromtv.com. Contact : Carl Timms at info@webromtv.com.

Great Hotels Luxury Network

The Great Hotels Organisation�s (www.ghorg.com) family of brands include Special Hotels of the World (www.shotw.com) and Great Hotels of the World (www.ghotw.com), luxury hotel marketing alliances representing over 240 of the world�s finest hotels and resorts. Contact : contact: Zo� Martin at zmartin@bigpragency.com.

Air New Zealand

Air New Zealand will increase services from Auckland to Shanghai and Hong Kong from 31 October 2007. Visit : www.airnewzealand.com. Contact : Kate Woods at Kate.Woods@uk.grayling.com.

Copenhagen and Malmo

The cities of Copenhagen, Denmark and Malmo, Sweden are promoting their destinations as a dual city destination. Denmark�s lively cosmopolitan capital of Copenhagen is just a half hour drive away from Sweden�s third largest city, Malmo, with its cobbled streets, canals and parks. These two contrasting cities are linked by the spectacular Oresund bridge; its 7,845m making it the longest combined road and rail bridge in Europe. Visit: www.visitoresund.info. Contact : Anne Marie Barsoe at amb@visitdenmark.com.

Travel by train

Waymark Holidays, who specialise in walking trips in Europe, has seen a rising number of travellers switch to European trips where they can take a train rather than fly because they are concerned about the environment. Walking in the gastronomic region of Burgundy, walking and wine tasting in the Loire Valley and walking in the historic region of Mont St Michel in Normandy are just some of the trips Waymark offers with train travel from London. A recent addition is their French Walk and Talk trip, where French language lessons are combined with walks in the local area and mixing with locals in the village to practice what is learnt. Visit : www.waymarkholidays.com. Contact : Wendy Walker at w.walker@ittfa.org.

Amsterdam

American Express has launched the first edition of its branded �Travelcast� to enhance the visitor experience to Amsterdam. The travelcast consists of a free, downloadable podcast filled with entertaining insights into the fascinating history of Amsterdam, and a map that traces the route of the audio tour and highlights the locations offering American Express Cardmembers exclusive discounts. The free podcast and map can be downloaded at www.americanexpress.co.uk/travelcast. Contact : Francesca Harding at Francesca@octopuscomms.net.

Thomsonfly

Thomsonfly has introduced seven new destinations from Manchester, including Lisbon, Venice and Sharm El Sheikh, as well as brand new sunshine and city break flights from Doncaster, Cardiff, Gatwick, Luton and Birmingham. Visit www.thomsonfly.com. Contact : Susie Aust at SAust@bgb.co.uk.

easyJet

easyJet, is to expand its operations between the UK and Poland, with a new daily route connecting London Gatwick with Krakow starting in October. Visit : www.easyjet.com. Contact : press.office@easyJet.com.

Leads

Australia

Outback scenic and charter flights

Outback scenic and charter flight specialist, Wrights Air, offers a number of light aircraft tours and flights from Coober Pedy and South Australia�s smallest town, William Creek. Areas visited include the spectacular Painted Desert, Oodnadatta, Dalhousie Springs, the vast Lake Eyre and Anna Creek - the world�s largest working cattle station. Visit : www.wrightsair.com.au

Once Upon Maria guided day trip, Tasmania

Once Upon Maria is a guided, one-day tour of the spectacular Maria Island, just a 40 minute ferry crossing from Hobart. Maria Island, once a penal colony, was declared a sanctuary for endangered species in 1971 and a National Park in 1972. As a result, the island is a �Noah�s Ark� of Tasmanian endemic wildlife within a setting of carefully conserved penitentiary architecture. Visit : www.mariaisland.com.au

Wedding Chapel on Queensland waterfront

Cairns� first waterfront wedding chapel, to open in June, overlooking the water within the gardens of Cairns� iconic Hilton hotel, the Blue Horizon Chapel will feature contemporary architecture distinguished by a white sail reminiscent of Sydney�s Opera House. Visit www.spb.com.au/hilton.html.

Great Ocean Walk, Victoria

The Great Ocean Road is now home to a walking trail dramatic coastline for 91km from Apollo Bay to Glenample historic homestead, passing by the famous Twelve Apostles en-route. The trail passes through the Great Otway National Park, Victoria�s newest and largest coastal park. Visit : www.greatoceanwalk.com.

The Vatu Sanctuary, Northern Territory

The Vatu Sanctuary, which is located 3km north of Alice Springs is set in a secluded, private garden with water features, a solar heated large pool and abundant bird life. The Sanctuary prides itself on being �uniquely different�, with colourful paintings all over the walls to inspire visitors and beautiful books to inform them. The self-contained luxury apartments cater for all needs and provide ultimate comfort in a unique artistic environment. www.gallerygondwana.com.au/vatusanctuary.

Land and air tours in the Northern Territory

The Anangu Waai company has joined forces with Alice Springs Helicopters to create a land and air tour of Alice Springs. The tour begins with an afternoon �Camel Ramble� in the Todd River bed and continues with a sunset helicopter flight. Visit : www.ananguwaai.com.au.

Pedapod around town, New South Wales

Visitors to Sydney can now use a pedapod, a three-wheeled bicycle, pedal-powered by an informative driver and guide, to enjoy a relaxed, leisurely tour of the city sights. Pedapod�s offer half hour and one hour tours and can also be hailed or booked like a taxi for transport anywhere in the city centre. Visit : www.pedapod.4t.com.

New health retreat, South Australia

Authenticity Health Retreat is a new boutique retreat in Port Elliot, situated on 26 hectares with views to the coast off the beautiful Fleurieu Peninsula. Visit : www.authenticity.com.au.

Contact : press@tourism.australia.com.

India

Indus Tours, the specialist tour operator to India, has launched two new tours to celebrate this year�s 60th Anniversary of India�s Independence. Covering important historical events, such as the early establishment of the British East India Company and the 1857 uprising which lead on to India�s Independence in 1947, the tours will highlight the fascinating legacy of India�s interwoven history with Britain whilst covering the key attractions in each area. Visit : www.industours.co.uk. Contact Judith Watson at Judith.Watson@lushpr.com

New Zealand

Le Cordon Bleu comes to rural New Zealand

The cooking school, Le Cordon Bleu, is to establish its first ever, rural campus in Martinborough, the wine centre of Wairarapa. Land has been purchased there for an international school of cuisine, which is expected to open early 2009.

Giant squid

The biggest Giant Squid ever seen, caught by a New Zealand ship in Antarctic waters, will be given to Te Papa, New Zealand's National Museum, in Wellington. Measuring 10 metres in length, the squid is believed to be the only intact full-grown Giant Squid ever caught.

Maori tourism

A tourism company operated by the South Island's main Maori tribe, Ngai Tahu, has announced plans for a multi-million dollar tourist resort complex at Franz Josef, South Island. It will include private heated pools amid native bush. Ngai Tahu Tourism Ltd is the parent company of some of New Zealand's most iconic tourism businesses including Shotover Jet, Franz Josef Glacier Guides and Whale Watch Kaikoura.

Pedal power monorail

Shweeb, the world's first human-powered monorail racetrack, in Rotorua, is set to open this April. Pedal-powered vehicles, hanging from two 200-metre long overhead rail circuits, will allow single or multi team riders to race at speeds of up to 70kph. Visit : www.agroventure.co.nz.

New Maori boutique accommodation

The Mud Hut or Maruata in central Rotorua, offering distinctly Maori-styled boutique accommodation, is now open for business. Located alongside geothermal Kuirau Park, it boasts an outdoor thermal bath, home theatre and native fern gardens. Visit : www.mudstay.co.nz.

Visit : www.newzealand.com. Contact : Sarah Belcher at S.Belcher@travelpr.co.uk.

Portugal/Spain

Uniworld Grand River Cruise is offering a Portugal/Spain getaway that includes two nights in Lisbon and a seven-night cruise on the Douro River through the Douro Valley, known for its beauty and charm, quaint villages and wine production. Visit : www.uniworld.com. Contact Arnelle Kendall at: akendall@uniworld.com

UK : England

The 22nd Bury St Edmunds Festival runs from Friday 11 May to Sunday 27 May, bringing top performers from all over the world and attracting record audiences to the historic market town at the heart of the Suffolk countryside. Visit www.buryfestival.co.uk. Contact : Pat Edgar at PRMatters@dsl.pipex.com.

UK : England

The 2007 programme of events at Bletchley Park in Milton Keynes includes six flypasts by the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight featuring a Dakota, Hurricane, Spitfire and a Lancaster. The flypasts will coincide with a number of special weekends at the Park, which are scheduled for 28 May, 9 and 23 June, 8 and 22 July and 22 September. Bletchley Park, home to the codebreakers of the Second World War and the birthplace of the modern computer, is a museum and heritage site. Visit : www.bletchleypark.org.uk. Contact : Caroline Murdoch at caroline@redworks.co.uk.

UK : Scotland

The Roxburghe Hotel and Golf Course near Kelso, Scotland has teamed up with Adventures Aloft, to provide hot air balloon flights from the Roxburghe grounds over the beautiful Scottish Borders scenery. The flight is followed by a special champagne breakfast on returning to the hotel. Visit : www.roxburghe.net and www.adventuresaloft.co.uk. Contact : Rowana Grant at rowana@crimsonedge.co.uk.

UK : Scotland

Edinburgh based overland tour company Wild in Scotland is introducing Journey to your Heart, which combines Highland scenery, folklore, history, life coaching and Shamanic fire walking. Visit : journeytoyourheart.com. Contact Michelle Nelson at michelle@crimsonedge.co.uk

USA : Florida

Gatorland, Central Florida�s oldest theme park, opens its Gator Gully Splash Park in April and Fun Spot USA, opens a multi-level go-cart track, in June. Located next to Old Town, Fun Spot USA features the world�s tallest SkyCoaster. Visit : www.FloridaKiss.com. Contact : media@floridakiss.com.

USA : Illinois

The Chicago and Illinois Tourist Office has produced a free city guides for visitors who want to discover the highlights of the city�s up-and-coming fashion scene? Visitors to www.gochicago.com/mychicago can download her podcast and map at home to plan their trip and create a walking tour of shopping hotspots. Contact : Emma Howard at emma_howard@jcpr.com.

USA : New Mexico

The new Disney film, Wild Hogs starring John Travolta, Tim Allen, Martin Lawrence and William Macy was filmed largely in New Mexico.Film locations included Santa Fe, Albuquerque the Jemez Mountains and Madrid, one of New Mexico's smaller towns along the Turquoise Trail. Contact : Mike Stauffer at mike.stauffer@state.nm.us.

USA : Pennsylvania

The US. Open, the second-oldest USGA championship, will be hosted by the United States Golf Association at the Oakmont Country Club in Oakmont, Pennsylvania, between 11 and 17 June 2007. The 2007 Championship will be the eighth U.S. Open conducted at Oakmont. Located outside of Pittsburgh, Oakmont ranks as one of the most challenging courses in the United States. Visit www.usopen.com and www.visitpa.com. Contact : Jane Wilson at jwilson@destination-marketing.co.uk.

Reasons to write about

The Eurovision Song Contest, Helsinki

The Eurovision Song Contest (www.eurovision.tv), the highlight of Helsinki�s spring�s event calendar, will see the city in the grips of Eurovision mania between 2 and 13 May 2007, with a range of related events throughout the city centre.

Helsinki, which was founded in 1550is, is Finland's capital with a population of approx 560,000. The 52nd Eurovision Song contest will be the biggest held so far, with 42 countries being represented.

The semifinals will be held on Thursday 10 May and the finals on Saturday 12 May at the Helsinki Arena. A total of eight different concerts, including official rehearsals, will be held at the Helsinki Arena.

Eurovision fans will be able to watch the semifinals and finals on a big screen in Senate Square. The Euro village will be erected in the Narinkkatori Square outside the Kamppi Shopping Centre.

Visit : www.visitfinland.com. Contact Riitta Balza at riitta.balza@mek.fi.

Wild West World, Wichita, Kansas

The $30 million Wild West World opens on 130 acres along the historic Chisholm Trail, four miles north of Wichita, Kansas on 5 May 2007.

The only �all cowboy� theme park in the world features 24 western themed rides and four musical stages featuring six shows daily, including the new Johnny Western Theatre, with indoor seating for over 1,100 and pavilion seating for over 3,000.

There are also 10 retail shopping �experiences� and 21 restaurants and concession areas.

The new Wild West World Sleep Inn Hotel opened in early March.

In 2007 the National Acrobats of China will be performing three times daily at the park as well as live musical acts from across the country.

Wild West World anticipates serving 500,000 plus guests from around the world in 2007. Visit : www.wildwestworld.net and www.TravelKs.com. Contact: Derek Mackenzie-Hook at press@TravelKsOk.co.uk

The 2007 Transatlantic Adventure Rally

In 2006, Solent-based company Ondeck Sailing launched its Transatlantic Adventure Rally to offer an opportunity for amateurs of all abilities to crew a race-proven yacht across the Atlantic.

The 2006 inaugural event went very well and Ondeck has decided to make it an annual event.

The 2007 Transatlantic Adventure Rally takes place in October through to late November with a 3,600nm voyage split into three legs including the traditional southerly trade wind route across the Atlantic, a route followed by sailors since the Christopher Columbus on his third voyage in 1498.

Starting from the port of Cascais on the Estoril coast, near Lisbon, on 11 October 2007, the first leg takes the boats to Funchal, Madeira arriving on the 16 October.

The second leg takes the boats south from Madeira into tropical waters and the penultimate stop in Mindelo, Vicente, in the Cape Verde Islands.

The final leg is the Transatlantic crossing to Barbados in the West Indies, leaving Mindelo on 10 November and making landfall around 23 November 2007.

The aim is for the TransAtlantic crossing, which is ppen to all regardless of sailing ability, is for it to be completed in two weeks, bringing it within the scope of an annual vacation.

The fleet for the Transatlantic Adventure will consist of four FARR 65 � Spirit of Diana, Spirit of Isis, Spirit of Juno and Spirit of Minerva.

Designed by Bruce Farr, the Farr 65s are based on a de-tuned Whitbread 60 and were designed for the �Millennium Round the World Yacht Race� with amateur crews in mind so.

The crew of each boat will comprise an Ondeck skipper, mate, and second mate, with a maximum of 12 clients. Shore-side support is provided an equally experienced crew, and the overall programme is overseen by Pete �Stokey� Woodhall.

�Stokey� is a well known ocean sailor who, over 30 years, has made some 30 Trans Atlantic crossings and amassed more than a quarter of a million sea miles. He is a highly respected teacher in celestial navigation and has sailed to the Azores some 89 times teaching students completing their Ocean Yachtmaster certification.

Visit : www.ondeck.co.uk. Contact : Pete Anthony at pa@ondeck.co.uk.

Unique New Zealand wildlife experiences

Rainbow Springs Nature Park

The kiwi, endemic to New Zealand and the country's national symbol, is a nocturnal flightless bird. Rainbow Springs Nature Park in Rotorua, North Island, has opened an outdoor walk-through kiwi enclosure, providing visitors with a close-up experience of kiwi in their natural environment. Visit : www.kiwiencounter.co.nz.

Pukaha Mt Bruce

The tuatara is a unique relic of the past and the only beak-headed reptile left in the world. See it in natural surroundings at Pukaha Mt Bruce, New Zealand's national wildlife centre, which strives to conserve some of the country's most endangered species. The centre is just two hours' drive from Wellington. Visit: www.mtbruce.org.nz

Penguin Place at Otago Peninsula

One of the rarest penguins in the world, the hoiho, or yellow-eyed penguin, has a beautiful yellow eye band sweeping back from each yellow eye. You can see hoiho on the Otago Peninsula at Penguin Place, a yellow-eyed penguin conservation reserve. Established in 1985, it has successfully increased breeding pairs from eight to 19. Visit : www.penguinplace.co.nz

Hector's dolphins in Akaroa Harbour

Swim with Hector's dolphins, the world's smallest, rarest and friendliest dolphin, in Akaroa Harbour, a ninety-minute drive from Christchurch. Visit : www.blackcat.co.nz

Fur seals on the Kaikoura peninsula

Unbelievably friendly and playful, enjoy an exhilarating swim with New Zealand fur seals on the Kaikoura peninsula on the east coast of the South Island. Visit : www.sealswimkaikoura.co.nz.

Visit : www.newzealand.com. Contact : Sarah Belcher at S.Belcher@travelpr.co.uk.

Luxury golf resorts in the USA

According to a Golf Digest survey, golfers take more trips and cruises and have higher disposable incomes, than the average vacationer.

Golf is the number one participatory sport among affluent travellers and also among business executives.

Upscale resorts around the world are catering to their golfing guests by offering a variety of new golf-oriented experiences and services.

BestGolfResortsofTheWorld.com has tracked these :

Caddie Comeback

Caddie programs have been launched at top golf resorts, making it faster and more enjoyable to play the difficult and popular tournament-level courses including the Mystic Rock course at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort in Pennsylvania, and for TPC Sawgrass, TPC Scottsdale and others.

300 �loopers�, as caddies are often called, are available to players at Bandon Dunes in Oregon, where golf carts are prohibited.

Among other resorts offering caddies are Pebble Beach, Pinehurst, Sea Island Club, Kiawah Island, Barton Creek, PGA National, Sandy Lane on Barbados and Whistling Straits at Destination Kohler in Wisconsin.

Wearing white jumpsuits reminiscent of those worn at The Masters at Augusta, caddies in the Golf Caddie Concierge Program at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, provide the traditional services and take care of food and beverage orders and dinner reservations.

Walkabouts

Although players are required to take carts on many resort courses - due to a perception that walking takes longer - some world-famous resorts are leading a return to the tradition of walking the fairways.

The Whistling Straits courses at Destination Kohler in Wisconsin are walking-only, as are the Oceanside links at Bandon Dunes in Oregon.

Pebble Beach calls its course "the greatest walk on earth", while on the Ocean Course at Kiawah Island, about half the players walk. Every golfer can walk, the better to enjoy views of the snow-capped Sierra Nevada, at the Resort at Squaw Creek at Lake Tahoe in California.

Walking is allowed year-round on Jekyll Island courses, and with a caddie on Royal Links in Las Vegas, and at La Costa Resort and Spa in California.

Kids on the Green

Due to the Tiger factor, kids are learning the game at earlier ages than ever before--golfers under 18 are the fastest-growing segment of the sport.

At Kiawah Island, the �Family Tee Program� gives families a chance to play together from the junior tees on any of the four courses in the early evenings, with longer than usual intervals between tee times - and kids play free.�

Gleneaglets at the Gleneagles Hotel in Scotland play on the 3-par, 9-hole Wee Course and the pitch-and-putt course, while at Boyne USA Resorts in Michigan, kids play free with an adult, while moms and juniors play together free on Family Fundays.

The �Family Fairways Golf� package at historic Pinehurst Resort in North Carolina includes clubs, a clinic and a round of golf for all, and the younger set has their own practice area. And, at the Fairmont Le Chateau Montebello in Canada, families get together for free hourly golf clinics three days a week.

The Golden Horseshoe Golf Club�s Spotswood Course in Colonial Williamsburg hosts a �Families On The Fairways� summer series and the �Take Your Daughter To The Course� program, while Sunriver Resort in Oregon is developing Caldera Golf Park, a 9-hole layout where the tee-to-green distances range from 60 to 140 yards, following the trend of shorter distances from junior tees.

Complimentary clinics and unlimited play are complimentary for all guests at Sandals� Beaches Bocobel in Jamaica.

On-Course Surprises

A white-jacketed waiter on the Nicklaus course at the Four Seasons Punta Mita near Puerto Vallarta offers fresh mango smoothies at the turn, while ice-cold, citrus-scented �Oshi-bori� towels are refreshing on Poipu Bay Golf Course on Kauai.

When golfers feel the heat of the desert sun at the Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North, a staffer arrives with cold Evian water, asking, �May I spray your face?�

Sexy cart girls serve pina coladas on the fairways of Bali Hai Golf Club, on the Las Vegas strip, while on The King & the Bear and The Slammer & The Squire at World Golf Village, chilled apples are complimentary.

Chair massage on the practice range relaxes players at Coeur d�Alene Golf & Spa Resort in Idaho and at the Golf Club at Quail Lodge in Carmel Valley, California.

Spas for Golfers

The Golf Performance Massage offered at the Willow Stream Spa at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess combines massage, stretching and acupressure to improve performance, balance and rotation, and help avoid injury.

Adjacent to the legendary, oceanfront Cabo Real Golf Course in Baja, the Spa Suites at the 5-star Las Ventanas al Paraiso resort come complete with in-suite treatment room, steam and sauna, and a spa butler.

The Private Golfer�s Suite at the Four Seasons Resort Aviara near San Diego is an indoor/outdoor oasis with whirlpool, fireplace, putting green and an �Arnold Palmer� beverage station for making the classic iced-tea/lemonade concoction.

Golfers settle in here for hand massages focused on muscles used while gripping the club, and back, shoulder and neck manipulation.

Comprised of play on the Tiburon and Hammock Bay courses, therapeutic massage and hydrating facials, the �Clubs, Rubs and Scrubs� package pampers guests at the elegant Inn on Fifth in Naples, Florida.

Visit : www.BestGolfResortsofTheWorld.com. Contact : Karen Misuraca at bgrw@vom.com.

Adult ranching

Ranch Rider has published its 2007 travel guide to adult ranching, incorporating the five best �child free� adventures.

These include adult ranch weeks, adult oriented ranches, cowgirl classes, cattle drives and working ranches.

The Echo Valley Resort Ranch in British Columbia

The Echo Valley Resort Ranch in British Columbia, allows guests can rekindle the romance with a stay at the honeymoon cabin offering added intimacy and seclusion.

Gourmet cooking and adult conversation come as standard, along with a range of adventurous activities including, 4X4 trips into Cariboo Country, bird watching, flight-seeing and sensuous massages for two at the Baan Thai Spa.

The Vista Verde Guest Ranch in Colorado

The Vista Verde Guest Ranch in Colorado is a luxury hideaway in the Elk River Valley, which offers a range of activities for those with a passion for adventure including tailored riding, river rafting, rock climbing, mountain biking and even hot air ballooning. Each cabin comes with its own outdoor hot tub and sensual post ride massages are available for added pampering.

The Hideout at Flitner Working Ranch in Wyoming

A traditional working ranch, allowing post parents to get into the spirit of the West without missing out on their creature comforts. After checking fences and moving cattle to new pastures there are also cocktails and gourmet delights at the lodge, where guests can relax and get ready for the following days adventure, whether it be on horseback, by airboat or by helicopter.

A range of cowgirl weeks and cattle drives are on offer at the Sweet Grass Working Ranch in Montana with 3 to 10 June female only week. Dinner rides, swimming in the creek, hiking and even impromptu sing-alongs round the campfire come as part of the package.

�Would be� cowboys can also take up the reins on Ranch Rider�s Flynn High Country Cattle Drive. A tradition since 1870, this is an authentic experience and not a staged event, unlike cattle drives that are more commonly found at some recreational style ranches. Activities include lariat roping, fly-fishing and a celebratory barn dance after moving cattle to their summer pastures.

Visit : www.ranchrider.com. Contact : media@tionlondon.co.uk.

The Cretan Wine Festival

The Cretan Wine Festival takes place between 2 � 6 July in the beautiful town of Rethymnon.

Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and is located between the Sea of Crete and the Libyan Sea.

The wine festival is a 500-year old tradition and attracts thousands of visitors every year.

Held in the Municipal Gardens, the event celebrates the island�s famous viticulture as various wineries bring their wines for free tasting!

The wine is enriched with traditional Cretan and Greek folklore music and free performances after the sun goes down.

The medieval town of Rethymnon is known for its narrow cobbled streets, Venetian palaces, scenic harbour and tempting tavernas serving all the Cretan delicacies.

The Cretan wine festival is the perfect event to get into the spirit of Cretan lifestyle and really enjoy the delights of Rethymnon.

Visit : www.libraholidays.co.uk. Contact : Lena Georgiou at l.georgiou@libraholidays.net.

Riding in India and Argentina

Tour operator cazenove+loyd has introduced a new riding holiday in the Indian desert and two in different parts of Argentina.

The Indian desert

The ride from Jodhpur to Udaipur through the desert terrain of the Aravelli Hills includes staying in heritage properties en route. Mounted on Marwari horses, which have been bred in Rajasthan since the early 12th century, riders will travel through desert villages, past lakes and farms and into the foothills of the Aravelli Hills. The average time in the saddle will be three hours with time out to visit a Marwari horse breeding farm, the Ranakpur Jain Temples and Kumbhalgarh Fort.

The Argentinian Pampas

The ride through the pampas of the Sierra Chica in the Cordoba region in Northern Argentina takes in the constantly changing geography of the region, through areas, which are impossible to reach by car. Riders will see Jesuit ruins and pass through La Falda, a town of German origin, where Hitler funded the Eden Hotel during the war. Overnight stays will be in a variety of locations from cattle estancias and tents to simple dwellings, allowing visitors to experience the local way of life. This ride is for experienced riders, who will be expected to be in the saddle between four and six hours a day.

The horses are all bred on the Estancia Los Potreros, where the ride starts and finishes. The estancia is a 6,000 working cattle farm and has remained in the same Anglo-Argentinian family for four generations.

The lake district of Argentina

A new ride between four estancias in the Lake District of Argentina started last Autumn. Experienced gauchos will lead riders through the foothills of the Andes and treat them to an asado - a traditional Argentinian barbecue - for lunch. After a day in the saddle, guests can relax over food and wine with local people and witness a ranching way of life.

The ride is run by an English woman, Jane Williams, who owns an estancia in Junin de los Andes. Riders need to be experienced, as the ride is fast and the distances are quite long. There are set departures with up to nine people or private rides can be booked. The rides can be organised from October to February

cazenove+loyd also offer riding holidays in South Africa, Botswana, Malawi, Kenya, Brazil, Ecuador and Uruguay. Visit www.cazloyd.com. Contact Tiggy Dean at tiggy@hillanddeanpr.com.

Crewed gullets in Turkey & Cephalonia

Turkey & Cephalonia specialist, Exclusive Escapes, is launching two brand new, fully-crewed luxury gulets on the Lycian Coast from May.

The brand new boats will be equipped with unparalleled luxuries such as large �hotel style� cabins, plasma TV and wi-fi connection, and one will even offer � la carte dining.

The aim is to create an extremely high level of service and on-board comfort for guests who can relax in style, while sailing this stretch of Mediterranean coastline.

Whereas an average gulet is 21 to 23 metres with seven cabins, Seyhan Hanna and Parlak M are 39 and 37 metres respectively, with just six cabins a piece. Guests can either choose a private charter or reserve a cabin and meet like-minded travellers onboard.

The spacious teak decks provide plenty of space to relax and unwind, time is spent under sail each day, and guests can try their hand at the helm should they wish.

For the active there is windsurfing, sea-kayaking, fishing, snorkelling and water-skiing, plus visits to local villages, markets and historical sites en route.

Meals onboard are fully catered - there are three meals a day as well as afternoon tea and cakes - and include plenty of fresh fish and locally grown, organic produce. Exclusive Escapes has six fully crewed gulets, with four different routes, extending from the Dat�a Peninsular in the west, to Olympos in the east

The gulet cruising season runs from 5 May to 27 October 2007.

Visit : www.exclusiveescapes.co.uk. Contact : Fliss Hoad at felicity.hoad@btinternet.com.

The Bloukrans Bungee at Tsitsikamma

The Tsitsikamma National Park is a coastal reserve on the Garden Route in South Africa. It is well known for indigenous forests, dramatic coastline and the Otter Trail.

The park covers an 80 km long stretch of coastline. Nature's Valley is at the western end of the park, and the main accommodation is at Storms River Mouth.

The Bloukrans Bungee at Tsitsikamma is the world's highest bungee jump at 216m.

Jumpers proceed along a specially designed catwalk leading to an archway where the challenge begins � complete with countdown - before victims leap into the abyss. In Tsitsikamma they use the ultimate in bungee pendulum technology, ensuring a smoother ride.

Acacia Adventure Holidays offers trips to Africa to the Bloukrans Bungee as part of its small group adventure and overland tours.

Acacia�s holidays are particularly suited to those with a young adventurous mindset � the essence being that people get truly involved, from cooking and cleaning on tour to meeting the locals, and of course, enjoying the destination. Further options include, adventure tours, lodge and fly in safaris, self-drive, city and short stays, diving tours, Access Africa for the physically challenged and tours suitable for families.

Visit : www.acacia-africa.com. Contact : siobhan mcgeady at siobhan@tionpr.co.uk.

Petit St Vincent

Petit St Vincent, a small privately owned island in the Grenadines, is a retreat for those who love being out on (or under!) the water.

The Grenadines are a group of islands sprinkled across what may be the most beautiful stretch of water in the Caribbean.

Part of the Windward Island chain, the Grenadines range south westerly from St. Vincent, the largest of more than 30 islands that make up the nation of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Petit St. Vincent (better known locally as PSV) which lies 40 statute miles south of St. Vincent, is a paradise of softly rolling hills spread over 113 acres and surrounded by two miles of white sand beaches.

Lying well off the tourist mainstream, PSV could be best described by what is not there. There is no airport, no formal check in, no keys. There are no televisions, nor are there telephones in the cottages.

The population of the island (appx. 50) all work for the resort, and reside in the village of Telescope Hill.

It is the water sports lovers destination and the ideal base to set sail and explore some of the most beautiful waters in the world.

If you would prefer however to keep your feet on dry land and just switch off, the emphasis at PSV is on relaxation. There are no phones, no televisions and no newspapers. S

imply while away the day snoozing in your hammock, dozing on the beach or slumbering in your spacious cottage, in the comforting and reliable knowledge that you won�t be troubled by anyone the whole day long or even for your whole holiday if so desired!

Sailing

Petit St Vincent is lucky enough to experience constant steady breezes that are perfect for sailing.

At PSV�s dock house, guests are able to use a selection of watersports equipment on a complimentary basis including Hobie Cats, Sunfish, Windsurfers and glass bottom kayaks. If you are a new to sailing, staff will be very happy to take you out and teach you the basics.

Petit St. Richardson

The water surrounding PSV is home to an array of colourful fish making it the perfect place for snorkelling.

For the ultimate snorkelling trip, guests can visit Petit St. Richardson � a small sand spit island not far from PSV and a wonderful spot for snorkelling and swimming.

Scuba Diving

PSV is amongst a host of small islands surrounded by teeming coral reefs and sandy islands which can be reached within a few minutes.

Most reefs are surrounded by white sand, which catches the sunlight and makes the underwater colors bright and clear. The dives are relaxing and easy but more adventurous ones are offered as well.

Deep Sea Fishing

There�s the chance to cruise the island on the Jahash, a safe, comfortable, 28 foot speedboat.

Captain Chester Belmar is an experienced sailor familiar with the waters, reefs and islands from St. Vincent to Grenada has been associated with Petit St. Vincent for more than 30 years, and lives on the neighboring island of Petite Martinique.

Jahash is available for deep sea fishing trips as well as for exploring the myriad of small islands and cay's in the Central Grenadines.

Explore the Grenadines

The most idyllic way to explore the Grenadines is on Jambalaya. Three years in the building and launched in 2002, this schooner is completely handcrafted from native woods grown on the islands of Carriacou, Grenada, Petit St. Vincent, and mainland Guyana.

She is the first Antillean schooner to be produced on Carriacou in many years. Jambalaya blends the best of traditional wooden boat construction with the latest nautical technology and luxuries.

Visit : www.psvresort.com. Contact: Claire Griffin at Claire@grifcopr.com.

A place to stay

Curtain Bluff, Antigua

The Caribbean�s latest luxury spa will open this month at Curtain Bluff, the luxury all-inclusive resort on Antigua.

Antigua, part of the country of Antigua and Barbuda, has a population of about 68,000 with over 24,000 people living in the capital of St. John's.

The new two-storey complex set on the waters-edge with panoramic views over the Caribbean Sea has five fully-equipped luxury treatment rooms including a romantic couple�s room.

The spa offers a full range of Pervonia treatments and massages designed exclusively for the hotel including a signature Caviar and Champagne Massage.

Since it opened in the early 1960�s Curtain Bluff�s has gained a reputation for excellence throughout the Caribbean.

The resort, surrounded by vibrant tropical gardens, offers beautiful, white sand beaches, a multitude of water sports, professionally staffed tennis facility, squash courts and gym combined with top cuisine and a world class wine cellar believed to be the largest in the Caribbean

Visit : www.curtainbluff.com. Contact : Toby Oliver at toby@oliverrelations.co.uk.

Rockwater Secret Cove Resort, British Columbia

Rockwater Secret Cove Resort is located on British Columbia�s Sunshine Coast 15 minutes� drive north of Sechelt.

British Columbia, the western most province in Canada, is a very mountainous region with a number of major mountain ranges ending with the Rocky Mountains that divide BC and Alberta.

The Sunshine Coast is part of the British Columbia mainland that is separated from Vancouver by Howe Sound. There are no roads connecting the Sunshine Coast with the rest of the lower mainland.

Rockwater, which is open year round, can be accessed via floatplane directly to the dock or by BC Ferry service to Langdale followed by a 40-minute scenic drive along the coastal highway.

Guests arriving by yacht are welcome to moor at Secret Cove Marina, a full service deep-water marina, and catch the shuttle to the Resort.

The accommodation at Rockwater Secret Cove Resort enhance the Resort�s relationship with nature.

Rooms in the lodge offer ocean view and pool view rooms, while new for 2007, the second phase of the Tenthouse Suites rewards guests with king-size beds, hydrotherapy tubs, fireplaces and expansive ocean views. These luxurious penthouse-style tents are perched on an Arbutus-covered peninsula along the ocean�s edge.

Visit : www.rockwatersecretcoveresort.com. Contact : Amanda Goats at amanda@spectaularink.com.

The Adlon Kempinski Hotel, Berlin

The historic Adlon Kempinski hotel next to the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin is celebrating its centenary this year.

The hotel�s first and most loyal patron was Kaiser Wilhem II, who demanded that no one put a foot in the door before him.?

Other notable visitors included Greta Garbo, who whispered her most famous catchphrase "I want to be alone" during the filming of Grand Hotel, which was based on the property.

Albert Einstein often waved to passers-by from his corner window overlooking the Brandenburg Gate and Charlie Chaplin always stayed in suite 101-114 and nearly lost his trousers as a crowd of fans jostled him when trying to enter the hotel for the premiere of "Lights in the Big City".

The hotel remained open and fully functional during the Second World War, but was burned to the ground soon afterwards. A new Hotel Adlon, reflecting the classic style of its predecessor opened on August 23, 1997.

More recently famous guests have included The Queen, Bill Clinton, Michael Gorbachev, George W Bush and from the world of entertainment, Dustin Hoffman, Tom Cruise, Sir Bob Geldof and Michael Jackson.

Over the years, the hotel has been extended and now has 382 rooms including 80 suites.

The hotel is showing an exhibition on its first floor with exhibits ranging from original menus, old photographs, guest books and curiosities - some of which have not been shown to the public before.

Visit www.kempinski.com Contact Emma Hill at emma@hillanddeanpr.com.

�for the Edinburgh Festivals Greywalls, which is a beautiful country house hotel 25 minutes from Edinburgh�s city centre, offers a base from which to enjoy the buzz of the world-famous festivals which take over Scotland�s capital city in August.

The festivals package (www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk) comprise the Edinburgh Fringe Festival (5-27 August); the Edinburgh International Festival (10 August-2 September); the Edinburgh Film Festival (15-26 August) and the Edinburgh Book Festival (11-27 August).

Greywalls, which was the holiday haunt of Edward VII, became a hotel in 1948. The 23 bedrooms offer pastoral luxury with beautiful fabrics, original antiques and fresh flowers. The garden rooms have French windows and a verandah with views down to the Firth of Forth. Brigitte Bardot, Barbara Streisand, Nick Faldo and Hugh Grant have all laid their heads on the freshly pressed linen pillowcases.

Dining is in the restaurant overlooking the ninth hole of the world championship Muirfield links. Visit : www.greywalls.co.uk. Contact Susannah McMicking at susannah@crimsonedge.co.uk. The Hotel Es Moli, Mallorca

The Hotel Es Moli, which is situated in the lush Mallorcan countryside.

Mallorca (also called Majorca in English) is Spain's largest island and located in the Mediterranean Sea as part of the Balearic Islands archipelago

Es Moli, originally a 17th century Manor House, lies in the northern Tramuntana Mountain Range, close to the ancient village of Deia.

It was converted into a De Luxe Hotel 41 years ago and now has 87 spacious rooms, many with spectacular views overlooking the sea and the mountains. In the peaceful gardens, guests enjoy the simple pleasures of sitting under a fruit tree with a good book and a gin and tonic. The hotel also has a regular bus service to the private and secluded beach, La Muleta.

Nearby historic Deia boasts annual music festivals, art galleries and a small museum in the world at the home of Robert Graves.

Visit : www.esmoli.com. Contact : contact Janna Gaunt at janna@iscott.co.uk

Anahita, Mauritius

Anahita, is a new exclusive hideaway resort on Mauritius - a small island in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar

The 70 apartments will be available from December 2007 and range from $1105 per night for a two bed residence in low season to $2770 per night for a three bed residence in peak season

Anahita Residences at L�Adamante provide guests with the easy luxury of hotel living, but within the space of a private home complete with 24 hour concierge, daily maid service and villa master. Anahita provides in-room massage treatments, gourmet destination restaurant, a fine selection of boutiques, incredible infinity pool, fitness centre with tennis courts and kids club.

An 18 hole championship golf course has been designed by Ernie Els, making the most of the spectacular terrain. There�s also fishing in the lagoon to trekking in lush forest, kite surfing on the coral barrier reef or visiting Port-Louis with the Indian Ocean�s oldest racetrack.

Visit : www.anahitamauritius.com/residences. Contact Caroline Parrish at cparrish@thecommunicationgroup.co.uk.

The Loden, Vancouver, British Columbia

The Kor Hotel Group have opened the Loden in Vancouver, British Columbia and its first foray into Canada.

Located in Coal Harbour, downtown Vancouver's most upscale residential neighborhood, at the edge of the financial district, Loden is minutes from the waterfront, Stanley Park, world-class shopping and the Vancouver Convention Centre.

Designed by the Vancouver-based architectural firm Hewitt & Kwasnicky, the project draws the natural wonders of coastal British Columbia into the city's cosmopolitan context.

The exterior of the 14-story hotel tower mimics ocean waves with curved glass, natural stone and copper.

Crowning the mixed-use structure, an expansive rooftop deck boasting spectacular cityscape views will provide a lap pool, private cabanas, an outdoor fireplace and a lounge area within a contemplative garden setting and a lively covered bar.

Visit www.lodenvancouver.com.

The Kor Hotel Group, manages both its own assets and non-owned hotels under third-party management agreements. Properties include Viceroy Santa Monica and Viceroy Palm Springs, Avalon Hotel and Maison 140 in Beverly Hills, The Tides in South Beach, Chamberlain in West Hollywood, Campton Place in San Francisco, Loden in Vancouver, Ikal del Mar on Mexico's Riviera Maya and Villa del Sol resort in Zihuatanejo on the Mexican Pacific Coast.

A new Resorts & Residences division unites Kor's hotel and residential expertise with ground-up broad-scale projects both nationally and internationally. Currently under development are two residential resort complexes in Miami, Viceroy Icon Brickell and Viceroy South Beach, two on Mexico's Riviera Maya, Viceroy Riviera Maya and The Tides Playa del Carmen, as well as Kor's initial overseas venture, Viceroy Anguilla in the British West Indies.

Contact : Daniel Guerrero at daniel.guerrero@korhotelgroup.com.

The Emirates Marina Hotel & Residence, Dubai

The Emirates Marina Hotel & Residence in Dubai opens on 1 September 2007.The resort hotel is located in a prime position on Dubai�s Marina, offering breathtaking views over the Gulf and Palm Island, as well as the Marina itself.

It is short walk away from Dubai�s prime commercial estates � Dubai Media and Internet cities � and the yacht marina, with its promenades lined with cafes, shops and restaurants. A championship golf course and the popular Jumeirah Beach are within easy reach and accessible from the hotel.

The Emirates Marina Hotel & Residence is part of Emirates Hotels & Resorts, the airline�s premier hospitality management division containing a portfolio of luxury conservation-based resorts, spas, and fully-serviced upmarket apartment accommodation.

Visit : www.emirateshotelsresorts.com. Contact Charlie Hampton at champton@bell-pottinger.co.uk.

The Ocean Tower, Pattaya

The Amari Orchid Resort will open its five-star Ocean Tower on the Beach Road, Pattaya in mid-2007.

Pattaya is a city in Thailand, located on the east coast of the Gulf of Thailand, about 165 km southeast of Bangkok in the province of Chon Buri. It is one of the largest centres of tourism in Thailand, with some five million visitors arriving in 2004.

Tourists visit Pattaya for the luxury hotels, beautiful beaches, friendly people, excellent shopping, reasonable prices and a wide variety of nearby tourist attractions.

The Amari Orchid Resort & Tower, which lies amid manicured gardens, offers superb accommodation and facilities, including a range of restaurants, two outdoor pools and easy access to both water sports and golf courses.

The Tower has 297 rooms including 49 executive rooms and 10 suites on the executive floor (Horizon Club).

Visit : www.amari.com Contact : Nikki Busuttil at email@amari.com.

The next issue

The next issue of the International Travel Writers Alliance bulletin will be issued in May 2007. Archived issues are available at www.internationaltravelwritersalliance.com.

Contacts

The International Travel Writers Alliance bulletin is produced by:

Ashley Gibbins at travelwritersalliance@williamjack.co.uk or +44 (0) 776 419 8286, and Charo Moreno at travelwritersalliance@williamjack.co.uk or +44 (0) 781 805 2331.