Tourism Ghent(Belgium) launches map listing vegetarian restaurants in the city

In order to promote the city of Ghent in Flanders, the Northern region of Belgium, as the ‘Veggie Capital of Europe’, Tourism Ghent has launched a special city map ‘Veggie Gent’, stated a release. The map lists over 80 vegetarian restaurants and nine organic shops in the city and also spots them on the map to help a traveller navigate his way through the city to the restaurant of his choice. The map also lists five outlets in Ghent serving the Belgian specialty - fries cooked in vegetarian oil as well as hotels and bed and breakfasts that offer an extensive vegetarian breakfast. The map can be downloaded from the tourism board's website www.visitgent.be.

Ghent has the largest number of vegetarian restaurants in Belgium and is considered as the organic heaven for vegetarians with dozens of unique little restaurants, shops and even an organic market at Groentenmarkt, stated the release. In 2009, Ghent had introduced the concept of Thursday Veggieday, a campaign developed by Ethical Vegetarian Alternative. This campaign made Ghent the first city in the world to officially stimulate people to go vegetarian one day in a week. It is also the first city in the world to have an official veggie day.

With an aim to further assist the vegetarian traveller, Tourism Flanders has listed restaurants across Flanders offering vegetarian cuisine on their menu on its Indian website www.visitflanders.in. "Availability of vegetarian food is an important factor that many Indian tourists seek during their travel abroad. This is one of the strengths of Flanders and Indian tourists can enjoy a wide variety of vegetarian cuisine while visiting Ghent and our other beautiful Art Cities. To make this information available to potential visitors we have included it on our website and on other media platforms," said Sunil Puri, Managing Director, Representative Office of Tourism Flanders & Brussels, Belgium

Visit us, www.adler-tours.com

Scenic Flights over Johannesburg & Pretoria

Adler's Tourism Services has always been the leader in private tours and charters, and in keeping up with our reputation we are now offering an exciting new service that your clients may enjoy.

Luxury Sunset or Sunrise Flights Over Johannesburg & Pretoria

Experience all of the thrill and beauty of a Sunset or Sunrise flight over Johannesburg & Pretoria in a 5-star experience from our partner Freedom Air. Based at the Wonderboom Airport in Pretoria, Freedom Air owns and operates a superb fleet of aircraft of all shapes and sizes.

This luxury excursion includes collection from Johannesburg and Pretoria Hotels, a special 1-hour flight in a fixed-wing aircraft over all of the most beautiful landmarks in Johannesburg & Pretoria. On return after the flight we enjoy delicious canapés and sparkling wine in our beautiful hangar at Wonderboom Airport.

Enjoy unique views of the Gauteng landscape from the air:

• The lights and skyline of Johannesburg
• Soweto and the FNB Stadium
• The affluent northern suburbs including Sandton
• Gold Reef City and the gold mines
• Pretoria and the beautiful Monument Buildings
• Hartebeespoort Dam
• The majestic Magaliesburg Mountains

Sunset Departures:      Monday, Wednesday & Friday Evenings

Sunrise Departures:    Saturday & Sunday Mornings

Cost:   From R 2650 per person.

Rates Include:   Scenic Flight, Canapes and Drinks, Return Transfers from Johannesburg

For more details visit, www.adler-tours.com
Telephone:- +91-281-2483878

AMOUAGE - The Gift of Kings

Founded over a quarter of a century ago, Amouage is a niche luxury fragrance house that draws inspiration from its birthplace of the Sultanate of Oman, infusing reference points from a rich and colorful heritage that fires the imagination of all who come into contact with its wonderful products. Amouage is derived from Frankincense (also called Olibanum) an aromatic resin obtained from trees of the genus Boswellia, particularly Boswellia Sacra. In the year 1983, at the request of Sultan Qaboos bin Said, Sayyid Hamad bin Hamoud al Busaidi, then Minister of the Diwan of the Royal Court, Amouage founded the company in order to reconnect with the Arab tradition of luxury perfumes. Their first perfume launched in 1984 under the same name was designed by Robert Guy. The design of the bottle - gold, silver and semi-precious stones - is entrusted to Asprey London a sign of luxury. Amouage was elected as the “Product of the Year” at Cannes in the year 1991.

Amouage is a lifestyle sought after by only the most sophisticated and discerning international consumer. Today, it has a stellar following around the world including Royals, global leaders and some of the most celebrated names in film, television, fashion, sport and music. At the heart of the brand “Amouage” lies a signature accord that cultivates the ultimate luxury of being unique and distinctive, that draws in line with the destination Oman.

The perfume brand has evolved in Oman through Amouage’s existing premises in Muscat. The two-storey perfumery opened its doors to visitors to view the various stages of perfume manufacturing from ingredient maceration to bottling and packaging as well as explaining the perfume extraction process.

Amouage’s new Factory & Visitors’ Centre is intended to become a staple tourist destination and has been especially built for guests fully to experience the brand’s essence and DNA. This new state-of-the-art Factory and Visitors’ Centre in Muscat, Oman can be visited by tourists during daytime. 

LADAKH MOTORCYCLE SAFARI

MANALI – KEYLONG – SARCHU – LEH – KHARDUNGLA PASS –JISPA

         

Fixed Departure from 8^th June’2013

DETAILED TOUR PROGRAMME:

DAY 1, 8^th June’13: ARRIVE MANALI

On arrival in Manali, check into the hotel & relax. Manali is located near the northern end of Kullu Valley & on the banks of River Beas at the height of 2050 m. Manali – an important hill station & breathtaking natural beauty is the hallmark of this valley. After Lunch, you will check your Royal Enfield 500 cc Motorcycle. We will ride Enfield in & around Manali for local sightseeing & you will be taught all skills to handle Enfield in mountains. In the evening take a walk on Mall Road to see the colorful Market of Manali.  Overnight in Hotel.

DAY 2, 9^th June’13: MANALI - KEYLONG (115 kms / about 6 hrs ride}

Morning after breakfast start ride to Keylong over Rohtang la pass (3980 m). On arrival in Keylong, check into the hotel and relax. Later explore the area by walk.  Overnight in Hotel at Keylong.

DAY 3, 10^th June’13: KEYLONG - SARCHU (120 Kms /about 5 hrs ride}

Morning after breakfast leisurely ride over the scenic Bara Lacha La at a height of 4830 Mt from MSL that is called Switzerland of India. After crossing the pass drop down to the vast Sarchu plains. Sarchu is situated on the bank of the Bhaga river & with that Sarchu offers marvelous views of the majestic Himalayas and spellbinding scenery.  On arrival in Sarchu, check into the Camp & relax. Overnight in camp at Sarchu.

DAY 4, 11^th June’13: SARCHU – LEH (250 km / about 7 hrs ride)

Morning after breakfast start ride to Leh. Enroute enjoy the pretty village alongside of the Indus River. On arrival in Leh & check-into the hotel & relax.

DAY 5, 12^th June’13: EXPLORE INDUS VALLEY

Morning after breakfast, proceed for a full day excursion to the Indus valley, visiting

Shey Palace- a ruined Castle, after that visit the 14^th century Thikse monastery, it is  an outstanding specimen of Ladakhi architecture. It is a glorious Buddhist monastery & a marvelous Buddha statue in the seated position is adorning the main prayer hall. Later visit the Hemis monastery- the richest monastery in Ladakh. Later back to hotel for overnight.

DAY 6, 13^th June’13:  LEH - KHARDUNGLA PASS

After breakfast we ride about 39 Kms to Khardungla La Pass (the World’s Highest Motorable Road at a height of 5606 m), where we take a stop for Photography because the view from the top is spectacular & take a cup of coffee at World’s Highest point.  Later ride back to Leh. After lunch, we visit nine storeys Leh Palace and it was built by King Singe Namgyal in the 16^th century, also visit Shanti Stupa (Japanese Pagoda) a magnificent white-domed structure, offers spectacular views of the sunrise and sunset. Overnight in Hotel at Leh.

DAY 7, 14^th June’13: LEH–SARCHU (250 km / about 7 hrs ride)

Morning enjoy the walk on the bank of Tsomoriri lake & visit the Korzok monastery. The monastery itself is a beautiful construction standing in the silence of the lake and the mountains. Later start ride to Sarchu. On arrival in Sarchu & check-into the Camp & relax. Overnight in Hotel at Leh.

DAY 8, 15^th June’13: SARCHU – JISPA (110 Kms / 4-5 hrs ride)

Morning after breakfast, start ride for Jispa. Jispa is very beautiful village situated on the bank of Bhaga River & the surrounding peaks covered with mist and clouds creating an awesome view. On  arrival in  Jispa, Check in Hotel & relax. O/n in Hotel.

DAY 9, 16^th June’13: JISPA–MANALI (145 Kms / 6 hrs ride)

After breakfast ride for Manali. On arrival in Manali, check into the hotel & relax. Evening enjoy your farewell dinner.

DAY 10, 17^th June’13: DEPART FROM MANALI

After breakfast, you can use the room till 12:00 Hrs. Later you are free to move as per your schedule.

Your adventure & culture Motorcycle tour to Himalaya concludes with sweet memories!

Cost for the Fixed Departure Package of 8^th June’2013:-

Per Rider: Rs. 55,000/-

Per Pillion: Rs. 42,000/-

Note: (Just Pay 25% to book your seat at the time of confirmation. To operate this Fixed Departure, we need minimum 10 Riders & in case we don’t get 10 Riders, then have to cancel the trip & will refund the full amount to the rider.)

Package Cost Inclusions:

Ø  09 nights accommodation on Twin sharing basis.

Ø  Daily Breakfast, Evening Tea & Dinner.

Ø  Royal Enfield Motorcycle as per above Itinerary.

Ø  Restricted Area Permits for Khardungla Pass.

Ø  Back up vehicle for your luggage & motorcycle spare parts.

Ø  Experienced mechanic on all riding days.

Ø  AC Volvo Bus ticket Delhi-Manali-Delhi.

Ø  English speaking Motorcycle Tour Leader for whole trip.

Ø  All taxes

 Cost does not include:

Any Airfare, Fuel for bike, In Case of major mechanical damage participant will have to pay for replaced parts & for servicing done by the local shop, Accident damage will have to pay by rider, Accessories for Bikes as per actual cost, Additional cost for changes in the Itinerary due to Weather, Travel Insurance, Lunch, Camera and video camera fees, Personal expenses like tips, bar & restaurant charge, Telephone bills, any other personal expenses which are not including the above cost include portion.

For Bookings Contact: +91 9825673771

Wander bugs ready with summer bags

The early bird catches the worm. The worms here are the best deals. The early birds are those bit by wanderlust and in a rush to book well in advance for their summer holidays.

Summer is still a few months away. But demand is soaring and travel providers are wooing potential customers with their best deals, hoping to do big business.

Booking figures for the months of April, May and June, as obtained from leading tour operators, clearly indicate a surge of 10-15%, with most people opting for international destinations.

Europe is a favorite this year too, though new locations have made it to the itinerary. Turkey and Egypt are much sought after, as are South Africa and Australia. “Domestic bookings start happening only after March”, said Kawaljit Singh Narula, assistant vice – president, LPTI India.

“Europe’s rich culture and warm hospitality make it a popular destination. More travelers are seeking destination. More travelers are seeking to explore it and we’ve received substantial queries this season. We’ve also got good response for our packages to the US, Southeast Asia and Australia,” and Vishal Suri, deputy chief operating officer, tour operating, Kuoni India.
For those who’ve booked themselves on a long Europe tour with Le Passage to India, the perk includes a Mercedes pick up to and from the airport. Then there are heavy discounts and free cruises by SOTC which are being lapped up by holiday makers.

Considering that family’s holiday twice a year, child friend’s vacations are the order of the day.
Theme parks, animal farms and children’s park are part of the itinerary. Among the popular destinations are Universal Studios in Singapore, Lego Land in Malaysia and the Butterfly Farm in Penang. The Ostrich Farm in South Africa and Pinnewala Elephant Orphanage in Australia are equally sought after as they’re considered extremely child friendly.

Another niche package is for the youth. “We’ve brought in a new concept with a focus on young travelers ages 18-35. This is a completely new range of holidays and the highlights are affordability, night life and adventure activities,” said Neelu Singh, COO, ezeego.com.

Thomas Cook (India) Ltd has launched its signature youth-centric travel product range ‘Rock-on Holidays’. The itinerary includes components like bike tours and pub crawls in Spain, scuba diving at Ko Samet, elephant trekking and rafting in Bali, mountain biking, paragliding and Alpine trekking in Switzerland, horse trails in South Africa and a local village experience in Laos. “Youth is a real strong, segment, poised to grow at an exponential rate of 25-30%,” said Madhav Pai, director, Leisure Travels (Outbound), Thomas Cook (India) Ltd.




Courtesy: - Times of India.

Sri Lanka: The Best Beaches

Sri Lanka overwhelms the senses. The air is heavy with the scent of jasmine, the food richly spiced and the landscape one of utter beauty; the radiant green rice paddies, forests of swaying palm trees and mountains puckered in tea plantations are utterly bewitching. But for many people Sri Lanka can be summed up in two simple words: the beach.

No matter what kind of beach bum you want to be, you’ll find a patch of palm-backed perfection here. You can book in for pampering at one of the island’s chic boutique beachside hotels, dive across glowing coral reefs, learn to surf on gentle sandbars, or merely toddle off to find your own little undiscovered corner of paradise.

Here’s our guide to the best of Sri Lankan beaches.

 

Tangalla

 

Lapped by lazy azure waters, the coconut-coloured beaches around Tangalla are hands down our favourite Sri Lankan bolt holes. Tangalla itself marks the dividing line between the picture-perfect tropical coves that dominate much of the southwest coast and the long, wave-lashed beaches that you’ll find in the southeast corner of the island.

Mirissa

 

Crack open a coconut, slip into a hammock and rock gently in the breeze. Of all the bigger Sri Lankan beach resorts, Mirissa is the favourite of many visitors. In general, this is a place for sitting and being rather than doing, but if you need a shot of adrenaline then Mirissa is the best base for a waterborne safari in search of blue whales, the largest living creatures on earth.

Arugam Bay

 

 

 

Buddhist monks walk along Sri Lankas' southern coast by James Gordon. Creative Commons Attribution Licence

Lovely Arugam Bay is arguably home to the best surf spot in Sri Lanka. Even if you’re not a surfer there are plenty of other draws, including crocodile-filled mangrove swamps and elephant-packed national parks. But to be honest you’ll probably find lounging about beachside entertaining enough.

Uppuveli Beach

 

During the dark years of civil war the east coast was out of bounds and its beautiful beaches were confined to the subject of rumour. Peace has brought new opportunities for trailblazing sun seekers and stunning Uppuveli is fast emerging as the best place to dip your toes. Good as the beach is, the real attractions are the glittering coral gardens of Pigeon Island just off nearby Nilaveli beach (which could win a beach beauty contest in its own right).

Bentota

 

Surrounded by mega package resort hotels, you might expect the beach here to be overrun…but you’d be wrong. With a smattering of divine boutique hotels, a sublime stretch of golden sand, and barely another tourist’s footprint in sight, this is one of the best places to unwind.

Unawatuna

 

 

Unawatuna Beach by Moving Montevideo. Creative Commons Attribution Licence

It’s hardly undiscovered, but Unawatuna is popular for a reason. With moonstone waters as calm as a lake, beachside cafes serving up delicious food and just enough action to keep things fresh, it would be fair to say that most visitors fall for Unawatuna.

More advice

 

Like what you’ve heard so far but need a little more persuading? The following breakdown should help you reach the right decision.

• Best for snorkelling: Pigeon island off Nilaveli beach offers crystal waters, shallow reefs, colourful fish, and diving and snorkelling that’s great for beginners and the experienced.
• Best for whale-watching: whales can be seen all along the Sri Lankan coast but Mirissa is the best base for seeing blue whales just a short distance from the shore.
• Best for self-indulgence: Bentota beach has a great collection of  boutique hotels, and when you’re done with the pampering the beach itself ain’t bad.
• Best for children: Unawatuna and Uppuveli vie for the title of having the calmest, safest swimming.

Courtesy:- Lonely Planet.

The Most Photographed Places on Instagram are…

More than 100,000 photos were taken at Suvarnabhumi Airport just in the past 12 months, Instagram said on its blog. Heald noted that Thailand is a popular destination so many visitors likely want to show off to their friends that they’re actually there.

The gleaming airport, which opened in 2006, is massive, cool and modern, Heald said. Gary Leff, a frequent flier who often travels to Asia, called it “beautiful and functional.”

“Some people find Suvarnabhumi cold, architecturally and temperature-wise,” Leff said. “(But) there are plenty of good shops and restaurants, and one of the very best -- if not the best -- airport lounges in the world: the Thai Airways first class lounge.”

The second most-photographed place on Instagram’s list -- Bangkok’s Siam Paragon shopping mall -- is less known among tourists, but a huge draw for locals, Heald said. Leff called it a “shopper’s paradise.” 

The huge complex boasts luxury stores, such as Versace, Prada and Chanel, a “gourmet paradise” food court and an entertainment complex that includes an IMAX Theater. Many visitors also head to the mall to interact with finned creatures at Siam Ocean World -- the largest aquarium in Southeast Asia, located in the basement level of the shopping center. 

“What they have there that’s quite unique is diving with sharks,” Heald said. “So that’s quite cool ... it’s a really fun mall.”

Looking for ideas to put together a fun and global itinerary for the New Year? Here is the full list the “most-Instagrammed” locations of 2012:

Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, Thailand
Siam Paragon shopping mall in Bangkok, Thailand
Disneyland Park in Anaheim, Calif.
Times Square in New York City
AT&T Park in San Francisco
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles
Eiffel Tower in Paris
Staples Center in Los Angeles
Santa Monica Pier in Los Angeles