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We’re delighted that Denise Andrews, proprietor of Langport Travel has joined our team in Street.
Many of us have known Denise for more years than we would wish to admit, and over those years while there have been many changes in the industry, we are all still passionate about travel and providing the very best service possible. It is because we share those common interests and values that we all get along so well.
One of Denise's many strengths is her programme of accompanied trips. We will be adding those to our existing programme to bring you the biggest and most diverse travel opportunities in the region.
This is a very exciting meeting of minds and we all look forward to it being very positive and enjoyable too.
Denise will be available on her usual number 01458 252868 or through our Street shop.
Tracey Norton from our Street Shop recently returned from new Zealand, this is what she found..
South Island, New Zealand has made an indelible mark on my heart and I can’t wait to return....
I was lucky enough to visit New Zealand this year. It is such an inspiring country, with its vast open spaces and remarkable landscapes, and although you are more than 18000 miles from the UK it really does feel like home.
We stayed at The George in Christchurch. This is a luxurious boutique hotel on the banks of the River Avon, overlooking Hagley Park, perfect for a punt on a sunny afternoon. The breakfast here is very special, elegantly presented; it’s almost a work of art!
Peppers Bluewater in Lake Tekapo is a stylish lakeside property, with stunning views over the lake. As we walked into our room the aroma of freshly baked bread assaulted our senses, courtesy of the bread maker located there. Complete with garlic butter and chilli paste, this was a welcome treat after a long day travelling.
Milford Sound was one of my highlights. It feels like you are leaving civilisation behind. The day we went it was a misty, murky day and this all added to the atmosphere. The wildlife in the Fjord is incredible and you sail so close to the waterfalls you could have a surprise shower.
Shotover Jet is the only company permitted to operate in the Shotover River canyons. As you speed through the canyons in your jet boat, holding on for dear life, trying to catch your breath, you are suddenly spun 360 degrees and screaming really is the only option. A unique and exhilarating experience and one I won’t forget in a hurry.
Our week in New Zealand felt like months, we had navigated through mountains, green fields, and coastal roads on an epic journey. It was unquestionably worth every minute and a road trip is the only way to see New Zealand.
Les, manager of our Swindon shop has just returned from an MSC Cruise around the Mediterranean,
I once again enjoyed a cruise on one of the beautiful MSC fleet! This was my 3rd time cruising with them and my 3rd ship. This time we sailed on the four year old ‘Orchestra’, which is truly huge, holding around 2500 passengers when full!
As always the onboard accommodation is comfortable and stylish! We spoiled ourselves with a balcony cabin which allowed real relaxation… lazy afternoons in the sun with a cool drink gave a definite feeling of privacy.
The cuisine is exceptional... but not, may I say, for those counting calories! Enjoy choosing from an extensive buffet selection or relax with waiter service in the main restaurants!
All the public areas have true Italian chic! The entertainment onboard is also very European, with venues that offer a relaxing drink with friends or, if required, more energetic involvement with the ship’s animation team including Dance Classes, Lectures, Competitions, etc!
Families are catered for in a big way with clubs for all ages… so that parents can also enjoy their holiday!
All in all a wonderful experience!
Sarah from our Street branch has just returned from the warm and tranquil island of Mauritius.
She says “I’ve completely fallen in love with this Indian Ocean island! Why? Well, it has incredible white sandy beaches, amazing coral reefs and breathtaking scenery. I can honestly say Mauritius has outstanding service, fabulous food and extremely friendly local people. The island is a perfect haven for couples and families and makes an ideal spot for a round of golf.
After touring the island, two of my favourite hotels are;
‘La Pirogue’ which is on the beautiful west coast and perfect for families and couples. It’s the most authentic Mauritian hotel with a magnificent beach, and it’s a great place to end the day watching fabulous sunsets with a cocktail.
‘Maradiva Villas Resort & Spa’ on Tamarin Bay, renowned again for its beautiful sunsets and romantic location. This resort has 65 luxurious suite villas set amidst lush tropical gardens.
There are also numerous activities to make your stay in Mauritius even more memorable. The warm crystal waters of the Indian Ocean are excellent for water sports, sailing, diving and snorkelling. The island is also a draw for deep sea fishermen as it is the holder of the most record catches.
The Mauritians have a local saying "west is best", because of the beaches and sunsets and I would totally agree!
Taken from the Cunard blog August 20th 2011 – a memorable cruise for David Logan and Peter Grayson Directors of Travel Angels.
"Many people choose to sail with us for special occasions including renewing wedding vows, birthdays and anniversaries. We would like to share with you Mr and Mrs Sydney Logan’s recent celebration on board Queen Elizabeth and are very grateful to the Logan’s for sharing their story with us.
During the Mediterranean Gems Voyage just completed, we were pleased to be able to help one couple to celebrate their Diamond Anniversary. Prior to departing Southampton, the Captain was handed a Special Envelope, and instructed to present it to the couple on the relevant day.
Accordingly, Mr and Mrs Sydney Logan were invited to The Admiral’s Lounge on 8 August, after departure from Civitavecchia, for a celebratory glass of champagne with the Captain. Also waiting in the Admiral’s Lounge were the couple’s son, David, and his partner Peter, together with the Hotel Manager, Chief Engineer and Deputy Captain. Once the champagne had been poured, and glasses raised, the envelope was duly presented.
It is not often that we are able to witness and celebrate a Diamond Anniversary on board, and even rarer to have the honour to present the congratulatory card from Buckingham Palace, but this was one of those moments.
In conversation it transpired that Sydney Logan had started his career as an apprentice butcher on a merchant ship in 1945, and actually spent three years at sea before settling down in Cumbria. Phyllis was very happy as this celebration culminated another special day for her; as this had been her first ever visit to Rome."
Pictured, Sydney and Phyllis Logan, with their son David, Deputy Captain Hamish Sunter, Captain Chris Wells, Hotel Manager Jacqui Hodgson and Chief Engineer Colin Black
Our Warminster shop went to town for a “Spooktastic Halloween Weekend“.
For the intrepid customers passing their portal, they were greeted by witches and the like, as the girls got vampish.
The locals, some who weren’t even looking for a holiday, dropped in to pay their compliments to the window dressers and to thank the team for getting into the carnival spirit.
Earlier in the week, the girls had delved into the myriad of holidays, to come up with some howling great offers, and the mood was further enhanced as carnival fever gripped Warminster on Saturday.
Unique, iconic, fusion, happening, cutting edge, awesome, are all such over worked descriptions that become tedious in their overuse but having just returned from Istanbul it has to be said that Istanbul is the birthplace for all of those descriptions.
It is the unique fusion of Europe and Asia, Agia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace are all iconic buildings and yes in the nine years since I last visited it has changed it has become cutting edge and happening while still retaining all of it’s sense of history, a sense of ‘seen it all before’ over the centuries. Agia Sophia was built in 535, with stood earthquakes been Christian and Muslim and as AJ our guide said ‘Istanbul is about acceptance’ to stand in a building 1500 years old is truly awesome.
If you are visiting for the first time stay in the historic quarter Sultanamett, walking distance for all of those places. If you are returning and especially if it’s a special occasion try the Four Seasons on the Bosporus. A restored Ottoman Palace on the waters’ edge where service, style and location all combine to add to the marvel of Istanbul.
To fly to Istanbul who else but with Turkish Airlines? They have a newly upgraded fleet, daily services and probably the best airline food in economy! Apparently the food is prepared in restaurant style kitchens in Istanbul. A national flag carrier to be applauded.
Benalmadena, Costa del Sol was the 15th group holiday escorted by Street branch staff member, Gabriella and her husband Martyn. The group consists mainly of local people from Street, Glastonbury, Wells area with ages ranging from mid 50’s to 89!
Gabby adds, "the core of the group has been coming with me since I took over from a previous employee at Bramble Travel way back in 1996! Others have joined through word of mouth and local advertising. It’s a great way for individuals to holiday if they are a little anxious, as there is always somebody to talk to.
This year the 44 adults enjoyed a wonderful week at the Hotel Riviera, a 4* hotel on the sea front with access to the promenade. It’s a great location from which to take strolls to the Marina, Torremolinos or Fuengirola, stopping for coffee or an ice-cream along the way and with temperatures in the lower 30’s, who could ask for more!! 37 of us enjoyed the ‘Viva Andalucía’ excursion, which included a visit to Juanito’s fruit farm - sampling his fruit and traditional Andalucían breakfast. He was a great character and everyone enjoyed his banter! It was then off for a a wine tasting at a local Vineyard followed by a tapas lunch alongside the Conde de Guadolhorce Dam. Other excursions taken were to Gibraltar, Malaga & Mijas.
If you're interested in joining us for our group holiday in 2012, please contact the Street shop for details."