Travels with Mercury

Healing touch

2010-09-03T00:48:00.000-07:00

The ancient Hindus believed, and with good reason, that there is no dividing line between the mind and the body. As they stated, the mind is body and the body is mind. They also believed that if beautifying the mind is to beautify the body, the concept can be applied to the soul as well - that beautifying the mind and body is to beautify the soul. It is with this philosophy as the core that the systems of yoga and ayurveda were developed.

Yoga and ayurveda are sister sciences of healing, transformation and integration on all levels of the being. Traditional ayurveda focusses more on treatment in this process, also called chikitsa, for body and mind, while yoga aims more at self-development and self-realisation, or sadhana. An inseparable component of the Indian ethos, both yoga and ayurveda have been in practice on the sub-continent for thousands of years. They have evolved from being merely medical systems to being the science of life itself.

A town of temples

2010-07-26T03:45:00.000-07:00

Picture a place just sprinkled with temples, thousands of them. Then picture each temple intricately carved, each carving a work of timeless art, detailed and beautiful, so many that they cannot possibly be accurately counted. This is Khajuraho, a temple town famous for its exquisitely embellished shrines, many over a thousand years old. Many of the sculptures mirror the navarasas, the nine emotions - valour, fear, love, disgust, anger, laughter, sorrow, wonder and tranquility. There are also numerous graphically erotic sculptures based on verses from the Kama Sutra, attracting tourists from all over the world.

Khajuraho was once a centre for the arts, showcasing the best in dance, music, fine art, poetry and architecture, as well as sciences like astronomy and astrology. Today, festivals held at the base of the temples are prestigious events that invite the best in their field to show off their talents.

A feast for the senses

2010-07-20T03:19:00.000-07:00

Dotted with swaying coconut trees, the seaside city of Trivandrum is the capital of Kerala. Like most places in the state, it is also known by its provincial name: Thiruvananthapuram.

Trivandrum is literally a sight for sore eyes. Since the city was originally built on seven hills, it offers sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding ocean and countryside. Eons ago, the city was the capital of the erstwhile Travancore state under the reign of Raja Marthanda Varma. And even though much time has passed, Trivandrum still retains the magical ambience of yore.

The wooded highlands of the Western Ghats along the eastern and north-eastern borders of the state make for enchanting picnic spots, with verdant greenery and rushing waterfalls. Historic monuments, serene backwaters, a rich cultural heritage and a long shoreline, with internationally renowned beaches - like the three cresents of Kovallam - make Kerala a treasured tourist destination.

The city of Trivandrum is at its vibrant best during the festival season, with celebrations held at the famed Padmanabhaswamy temple, a stunning landmark of the city, built in the Dravidian style with a magnificent seven-tier gopuram (tower). There are also the snake boat races and the elephant procession to look forward to. These revels are generally held in March-April or September-October.

Captivating Cochin

2010-07-06T01:21:00.000-07:00

If there is one place in the riveting diversity of Kerala where there is tangible beauty and life full of good things, it is Cochin.

The largest city in Kerala with a population of 5.5 lakhs, Cochin's all weather harbour has made it an important center for commerce and industry. It has a maritime history that began in the remote past. The Portuguese, the Dutch and the English established themselves here at one time or the other. This unusual assortment of rulers transformed Cochin into an extraordinary melting pot of people and cultures.

Cochin has a sizable Jewish community and this is reflective in the Jewish synagogue, a magnificent prayer hall that was constructed in 1568 A.D. and is the oldest synagogue in the Commonwealth. Another place of interest is the St.Francis Church, a Protestant church that was built by the Portuguese in circa 1510 A.D. Vasco-da-Gama's gravestone is located here though his mortal remains were taken back to Portugal several years later.

And if that isn't to enough to interest you, there's also the lure of the backwaters combined with the exquisiteness of Willington island, Fort Cochin - Mattancherry peninsula, Bolgatty and Gundu and Vypeen island.

A blessed land

2010-06-21T02:46:00.001-07:00

There's more than one reason why Kerala is called ‘God's own country’. Geographically, the state couldn't be more blessed. There's the Arabian Sea to the west and the Western Ghats towering 500-2700 m in the east. There's also the remarkable network of 44 rivers. And if that wasn't enough, there are also tranquil stretches of emerald backwaters, lush hill stations, exotic wildlife and breathtaking waterfalls to explore. Sprawling plantations and endless paddy fields add to the grandeur.

And then there is the high-intensity cultural life and an infinite number of intriguing customs. Age-old influences of Hinduism, Islam, Judaism and Christianity blend to form something unique to the region. The inspiring Ayurvedic lifestyle is steeped in tradition and history, with intriguing smells and tastes and a cure for almost anything. There are enchanting art forms and magical festivals. The famed snake boat races and the rather remarkable form of martial arts practiced by the people of the state are known worldwide. This is a land dotted with historic and cultural monuments and spiced with a fiery and exotic cuisine.

All this comes together to offer the visitor an amazing diversity of experiences. Visit Kerala - the perfect place to soak up culture while you soak up the sun. Take a trip to God’s own country.

Desert paradise

2010-06-18T03:14:00.000-07:00

RAJASTHAN: The name itself evokes awe and visions of royal splendour. It brings to mind beautiful palaces and opulent lifestyles. It carries within it tales of valour and sacrifice. It is a land of kings and camel herders, queens and artisans, ladies-in-waiting and snake charmers. A place where grace and bravery walk hand in hand. A land of refined living and fearful battles. A land of sharp truths and gentle ways.

JAIPUR is the capital of Rajasthan. Often called the ‘Pink City’ because its buildings are washed with this colour, Jaipur's old walled area is home to the City Palace Museum, a medieval astronomical observatory. The atmosphere of age-old charm pervades the town. And the stunning backdrop of ancient forts like Nahargarh, Amer, Jaigarh and Moti Dungri are dramatic testimonials of a bygone era and a reminder of timeless romance. Once ruled by Rajput princes, this territory is still sustained by memories of a feudal past kept alive by its deep-seated traditional culture.
The bazaars sell everything from precious jewellery to camelskin shoes - Jaipur is truly a shopper's paradise. From tie-and-dyed textiles to embroidered fabrics and block printed cloth to exquisite meenakari, silver and kundan jewelry, you'll find everything you may be looking for. There is also a wide variety of handmade leather goods, unusual blue pottery and exceptional miniature paintings.

JODHPUR isn't only famous for its trousers, but is home to some of the most staggering palaces and fortresses you will ever see. The city is embellished with infinite imprints of colour and chivalry, lively spirit and lingering music, harmony and hospitality, palaces and pristine nature. The 'Blue City', as it is known, was founded on the edges of the Thar desert in 1459 AD by Rao Jodha, a chief of the Rathore clan of the Rajputs. It was the capital of the Rathore kingdom, the largest in Rajputana. Jodhpur is the second largest city in Rajasthan, and is encircled by a high 10 km long wall. The city is home to a number of temples, gardens and lakes, the most famous of which are the Umaid Bhavan and the majestic Mehrangarh Fort.
Jodhpur is also the place to find antiques from the Rajput era and traditional style Jodhpuri handicrafts. The characteristic bandhej and leheriya fabrics are widely popular.

UDAIPUR, also called the City of Lakes, is a lovely jigsaw of water bodies and lush green hills. It's no surprise then that Udaipur is also known as the ‘Venice of the East’, as much for its gorgeous lakes as for the romance it inspires. Its palaces are straight out of a fairy tale and the forts, palaces, temples, gardens, mountains and narrow lanes bring to mind tales of a heroic past, infused with chivalry.
Of the original 11 gates of Udaipur city, only five remain. The Suraj Pol or Sun Gate on the eastern side is the main entrance to the town. The Lake Palace on Jag Niwas Island in the middle of Pichola Lake is the finest example of its architectural and cultural explosion. Saheliyon-ki-Bari, the city palaces and the Jagdish temple are other noteworthy architectural sites. Several places of interest around Udaipur including the majestic Chittaurgarh, the mountain fortress of Kumbhalgarh, the beautiful Jain temple of Ranakpur, Ekligji and Nathdwara and the cool retreat of Mt Abu make a visit to Rajasthan a memorable experience.

Hill side story

2010-06-16T02:40:00.000-07:00

NORTH EAST INDIA is a corner of this vast and wonderful country that is India. It is relatively unexplored, with lush forests, exotic wildlife and people that are esoteric.

Darjeeling - is the dreamland of the East. It (2134m) has been a popular hill station since the days of the British Raj. Surrounded by lofty mountains, it is a fascinating place rich in natural beauty and surrounded by Buddhist monasteries. To reach there, you can take the famous toy train - now a Unesco World Heritage Property - a meter gauge train operating over some breathtaking scenery.
Gangtok - (1780 m) is a city that could be out of a fantasy tale. The mighty Kanchenjunga peak (8500m) provides a stunning backdrop to this quaint town. In the mystery-laden mists, prayer flags whip in the breeze and wheels spin in the hands of lamas mumbling invocations to God. In the distance are the snows; on the streets, amidst brightly painted pagoda roofed houses, are friendly, smiling people. The Tsomgo Lake lies on the outskirts of Gangtok, and is considered holy by the locals. It is surrounded by snow-clad peaks and is frozen for a large part of the year. Not too far away is the Nathula (or 'whistling') pass. It lies on the border between India and China and is famed for its dramatic scenery.
Shillong - (1496 m) the capital of Meghalaya was planned by the British as a hill resort and a summer retreat. The beautifully kept golf course and several English country cottages testify to another influence besides the local. Beautiful lakes and falls, hillside cottages, a large university, and the popular Bara Bazar are quaint aspects of this town. The place, the people and the climate all combine to create an atmosphere to make Shillong an ideal holiday resort throughout the year. Cherrapunjee, the wettest place on earth, is only 56 kms away from Shillong.

The hills are alive...

2010-06-08T02:25:00.000-07:00

The majestic Himalayas. For many, going to the Himalayas means taking on Everest. Luckily, this need not be the case for those who want a holiday in the high hills. A regular trip to the Himalayas is all about stunning landscapes, with fragrant pine and rhododendron forests, vivid-green rice paddies, cascading waterfalls, colourful Sherpa villages and out-of-the-way Buddhist monasteries. And amid the lofty mountains and charming flower laden valleys are a large number of retreats, comfortable, luxurious and welcoming. And if you'd prefer the more serious business of higher-altitude climbing, you'll find options aplenty. Either way, you can look forward to a journey that is sure to take your breath away.

Shimla - The British empire may have ceased to exist, but its echoes linger on in Shimla (2130 m). As the summer capital of British India, this was the country's focus for the better part of every year and now, it is the state capital of Himachal Pradesh. Today, its well developed facilities, easy accessibility and numerous attractions make it one of India's most popular hill resorts. Enjoy riding on the enchanting Shimla-Kalka narrow gauge railway line and a quaint toy train. Or go on the various treks to the Kullu valley or indulge in trout fishing at the Pabbar River. For the more adventurous, there's skiing at Narkanda and Kufri from January to mid-March. The nine-hole golf course at Naldehra is also a major draw for the tourists.
Dharamshala - Set against the backdrop of the dramatic Dhauladhar Mountain ranges, Dharamshala (1,700 m) is perched on the high slopes in upper reaches of Kangra Valley. It is a charming town with elegant bungalows nestling in thick conifer forests.
Mcleodganj - near Dharamshala, this is also the home of the Dalai Lama, spiritual head of the Buddhists. Sometimes known as 'Little Lhasa' after the Tibetan capital city, Mcleodganj is an enchanting world where spinning prayer wheels and fluttering prayer flags spread the message of peace and universal harmony.
Other places of interest - Dalhousie, Manali, Nainital, Mussorie, Srinagar and Gulmarg. Contact your nearest Mercury Travels office for more...

A sense of adventure

2010-06-07T03:08:00.000-07:00

India is blessed with an unprecedented diversity of topography and climatic conditions. From the dizzying heights of the Himalayas to the expanse of the North Indian plains, from the sands of the Thar desert in Rajasthan to the raging torrents of rivers like the Ganga and the Bramhaputra, from the saltlands of the Rann of Kutch in Gujarat to the barren mountains of Ladakh, India has it all. With this incredible range of adventure possibilities, soft as well as challenging, there is something for everyone.

Climbing in the Himalayas is, for most, the ultimate adventure challenge. While mountain climbing expeditions can be organized for the serious climber, treks, hikes and mountain jeep safaris are ideal for those looking for thrills without the demands of high adrenaline sports. Treks run into regions of Ladakh, Zanskar, Markha, Nubra, Himachal, Lahul, Spiti and Kinnaur, Garhwal and Kumaon in the northern Himalayas. In the Eastern Himalayas treks run in Sikkim, the Darjeeling region and Arunachal Pardesh, while in the south they run into the lush green Nilgiris. Himalayan safaris can be timed to coincide with a ritual or festival in that part of Himalayan region.

Desert safaris are a great way to explore the colourful land of Rajasthan. You could opt for a short camel safari through a typical Rajasthani village or a long-distance expedition in open jeeps lasting a few days. The best times for traveling are the cooler parts of the day, the mornings and evenings. Of course, you can also combine camel and jeep safaris for a unique experience.

India is also prime white-water rafting country. High quality rafting can be experienced on the Ganga, Zanskar, Brahmaputra and Alaknanda rivers. Rafting on the Ganga is easily accessible from Delhi. The facilities are good and the guides and equipment are top-class.

Quality options also exist for scuba-diving, skiing, mountain biking, wildlife safaris and much more.

The wild life in India

2010-06-02T02:58:00.000-07:00

The vast heritage of wildlife in India comprises of more than 70 national parks and about 400 sanctuaries including special enclaves for birds. And that's not all - most parks and sanctuaries have numerous accommodation options, ranging from luxurious tents to forest bungalows and eco-friendly resorts, making it possible for you to explore the hidden depths of the wild. A paradise for the nature lovers, these forest areas are crucial for the conversation of the endangered species like the Bengal tiger, leopards, lions, Asiatic elephants and Siberian cranes. There are seasons that are best for animal-spotting, so be sure to ask your travel agent for the perfect time to watch the wild life!
Tiger - found in Uttarakhand - Corbett Tiger Reserve, Assam - Manas Wildlife Sanctuary, Rajasthan - Ranthambhore and Sariska, Uttar Pradesh - Dudhwa and Katerniaghat, Madhya Pradesh - Bandhavgarh and Kanha National Park.
Elephant - found in Assam - Manas National Park, Kerala - Periyar Widlife Sanctuary (Thekkaday), Karnataka - Bandipur, Nagarhole Wildlife Park, Tamil Nadu - Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary.
One-horned rhinoceros - found in Assam - Kaziranga National Park, Manas National Park.
Migratory birds - found in Rajasthan - Keoladeo National Park (Bharatpur).
Asiatic Lion - found in Gujarat - Gir Widllife Sanctaury, Sasangir National Park & Lion Sanctuary.
Indian Bison - found in Uttarakhand - Corbett Tiger Reserve, Assam - Manas, Kaziranga National Park, Rajasthan - Ranthambhore and Sariska tiger reserves, Uttar Pradesh - Dudhwa and Katerniaghat, Madhya Pradesh - Bandhavgarh, Kanha National Park, Kerala - Periyar Widlife Sanctuary (Thekkaday), Karnataka - Bandipur and Nagarhole Wildlife Park, Tamil Nadu - Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary.

The food of India

2010-06-01T02:56:00.001-07:00

India is a foodie's perfect destination, boasting not one or two, but about as many cuisines as the countless communities that call the country home. It's all very well to broadly categorise the foods of India into North Indian and South Indian for the purpose of simplicity. But that is a simplistic division, you'll realise, for even within every state in India you can find great culinary variation.

The Punjabis have created a combination of the northwest frontier cuisine and Mughlai recipes to present rich poultry and mutton dishes. The ubiquitous 'tandoori chicken' is a great favourite!
Goan cuisine, on the other hand, is the result of the blending of local Konkani and Portuguese food styles. This culinary amalgamation and adaptation has created fiery coconut based curries and stews using pork and beef and rich cakes and pastries, as well as an interesting range of port and red and white wines.

While the coastal regions display a preponderance of fish and fish dishes, the northern regions favour chicken and mutton. In the northernmost state of Jammu & Kashmir, mutton is the piece de resistance in the formal banquet called 'wazawan', which includes a spread of over 36 courses cooked all night long by a team of chefs called 'wazas', descendants of the cooks of Samarkand.
The three states of Kerala, Goa and West Bengal constitute the fish loving populace. The culinary delights of Goa and Kerala differ from that of West Bengal in that they rely more on coconut in their preparations. In sharp contrast are the states of Tamil Nadu and Gujarat, which display a clear penchant for vegetarian food.

Go to Goa!

2010-05-27T03:41:00.000-07:00

In no other place in the world do two contrasting cultures - Indian and Portuguese - come together as magically as in the sun-drenched state of Goa. The magic and mystery of Goa lies in the fact that it is not one place at all, but two.

On one hand you have the Goa of swaying palms and white-sand beaches, Portuguese mansions, a number of fascinating medieval churches and Hindu temples, bike rides among shimmering rice paddies and walks through lush spice plantations. It's a languid retreat, where time crawls by and cobbled alleyways lead you to quaint villages. A Goa that is filled with the romance of an era gone by. Filled with lush green forests, abundant sunshine and the legendary warmth and hospitality of the Goan people. The great churches of Old Goa including the Basilica of Bom Jesus, the Se Cathedral, the Church of St Cajetan and the Church of St. Francis of Assisi stand testimony to the Catholic influence.

Then there is another Goa. Sauve and urbane. Fun and sexy. Full of hedonistic parties, colourful festivals, spectacular pageantry and exhilarating adventure. A Goa that buzzes with energy and entices you with secrets. One of which is its distinctive cuisine spicy, delectable and totally unforgettable. With a nightlife second to none, Goa is indeed the party headquarters
of South East Asia.

And there's no telling which Goa will enthrall you, but rest assured that enthrall you, it will.

A capital time

2010-05-25T03:01:00.000-07:00

Delhi is a city that blends the dynamism of a booming urban civilization with memories of a grand past, of overwhelming passion, of quiet culture, of Mughal spendour and a colonial past. It is the seat of political power and a city of myriad contradictions. Delhi is so much more than it seems to a first glance, a sum of parts far greater than anything that can be described on a single page in a guidebook.

Hardly surprising, since Delhi has been the capital of seven empires through Indian history and has over 60,000 recognized monuments built over several millennia. As per the Archaeological Survey of India, it is believed to be the site of Indraprastha, founded by the Pandavas of the Mahabharata more than 3000 years ago.

Delhi is a city that has moved forward with the rest of the world while keeping its roots firmly planted deep in the past. The capital of India and the nerve centre of Indian politics, it is now a throbbing metropolis, with everything a visitor may be looking for - history and culture, architectural marvels, the best of Indian and world cuisine, traditional bazaars offering a unique shopping experience, flamboyant restaurants and nightclubs, polo grounds, imperial gardens and much, much more.

The historic architecture of Delhi is one of its main tourist attractions. The majestic Red Fort, the towering Qutub Minar, the unique Jama Masjid and the Rashtrapati Bhavan are some of the most popular monuments visited by tourists. However, it is along the wayside, within bazaars and at almost every curve of any road in Delhi that there are fascinating ruins of tombs, palaces and mosques, unnamed and unmarked, waiting to be explored. With as many facets as a kaleidoscope, you can rest assured that you'll find a little bit of every part of India in this city.

Gateway to India:Mumbai

2010-05-24T02:12:00.000-07:00

This is indeed India! The land of dreams and romance, of fabulous wealth and fabulous poverty, of splendour and rags, of palaces and hovels, of famine and pestilence, of genii and giants and Aladdin lamps, of tigers and elephants, the cobra in the jungle, the country of a hundred nations and a hundred tongues, of a thousand religions and two million gods, cradle of the human race, birthplace of human speech, mother of history, grandmother of legend, great-grandmother of traditions, whose yesterdays bear date with the smoldering antiquities of the rest of the nations - the one sole country under the sun that is endowed with an imperishable interest for alien prince and alien peasant, for lettered and ignorant, wise and fool, rich and poor, bond and free, the one land that all men desire to see, and having seen once, by even a glimpse would not give that glimpse for the shows of all the rest of the globe combined.

MUMBAI: Love it or hate it, you can't ignore it. Mumbai is a temptress. Ravaged by time, history and circumstance, she has risen above it all with an easy grace. She is a city of dreams, despair, drama and dazzle, with heartbreaking poverty set within staggering grandeur. A city that sparkles with promise and glints with tears of desolation.

Mumbai is India's capital of finance. It is also India's capital of glamour. A Victorian townscape more reminiscent of a prosperous 19th-century English industrial city than anything you'd expect to find on the edge of the Arabian Sea, Mumbai bustles and buzzes.

It is the headquarters of the Indian film industry, known to Indians as Bollywood. It is a city of starlets, slum-dwellers, dancing girls, crusading activists and poets, all of whom drift into the city to make it big. It is also the ideal hub from which to explore the famous Ajanta and Ellora caves, Elephanta Island and the charming hill resorts of the Western Ghats.

Complex and interesting, being in Mumbai with its vibrant streetlife, India's best nightlife and thousands of open-air and enclosed bazaars is like being smack-bang in the middle of a Bollywood masala potboiler movie. Addictively filled with drama, absurdity, pathos, wonder and lots of fun.

Cruising in Australia

2010-05-20T02:08:00.000-07:00

On an island like Australia, water indulgences are found at every turn. In the Whitsundays you can bareboat charter your own yacht and take off to explore the islands and inlets. Or hire a skipper and a whole crew to cook for you and attend to your every need. Choose a spectacular cruise or a barefoot luxury adventure sailing between tropical islands and warm water reefs.

Enjoy the pleasure of sailing in Australia’s many harbours and tranquil bays. You can go champagne sailing at sunset or have lunch or dinner served while you cruise Sydney or Darwin Harbour or charter a yacht from almost any resort or island in Queensland to explore the coast or the reef at your own speed. Sleep on board listening to the sound of gentle lapping waves against the side of your boat. On inland rivers such as the Murray River you can hire a paddle steamer or captain your own houseboat and in the Margaret River region take a luxury cruise to the vineyards.

The Kimberley region of Western Australia is one of the last untouched wilderness areas on earth much of it only accessible by sea. Several adventure luxury cruises provide an amazing view of the Kimberley from a different perspective on luxury guided cruises on purpose built ships. Here, and in the Top End, luxury expedition cruises have onboard experts, speakers who can bring the voyage alive, as well as kayaks, canoes and helicopters on which to take off and explore these remote areas.

Whatever your preference, be it the slap of sail and creak of timber of a classic tall ship or the pleasures of luxury cruising, we have some of the most beautiful sailing and cruising destinations in the world. Australian cruises and charters will take you to magnificent tropical islands, white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, sheltered coves or idyllic calm sailing waters. The scenery is spectacular beyond words, the marine life is teeming with vivid colours and magnificent corals and also waiting to be explored are our red cliffs, rugged ranges and spectacular gorges.

Key facts
* The Kimberley wilderness of Western Australia is three times larger than England but with a population of just 30,000.
* There are 74 islands in the Whitsundays but only a handful have resorts on them.
* The Great Australian Bight is the largest indentation on the Australian coastline and is said to be the longest line of seacliffs – some up to 60 metres high in the world.
* The Bay of Fires in Tasmania was named by international guide book The Lonely Planet the world's hottest travel destination in 2009, described as a castaway bay with a 29 kilometres ribbon of sea and surf.
Discover the magical north-west of Western Australia in luxury and comfort and experience wilderness in surroundings more akin to one of the world’s most exclusive hotels on a luxury cruise aboard the True North. Cruise in luxury through the Kimberley Range gorges to the remote cattle station of El Questro and the thunderous King George Falls onboard this luxury cruise ship with its own helipad and onboard helicopter for aerial flights over waterfalls, gorges and remote wilderness.

Explore the Kimberley Coast, one of the last untouched wildernesses on earth. Wild and beautiful, it is one of the planet’s oldest and most awe-inspiring landscapes – much of it only accessible by sea – on one of a number of luxury adventure cruises including Coral Princess Cruises, Seven Star Cruises and the magnificent Orion Expeditions.

Cruise the Top End in comfort on an Orion Expeditions Cruise departing from Darwin or Broome. Visit remote locations on the stunning Gove Peninsula, the Arnhem Land coastline and see the magnificent Mitchell Falls on a purpose built vessel designed to access the inaccessible, all in 5-star luxury. The ship combines the best and the latest in design with maritime and environmental technology, comfort and casual elegance. From the ice-strengthened hull to the chilled champagne and superb cuisine, this is expedition cruising at its finest, with onboard speakers and shoreside expeditions to areas that even most Australians don’t get to see.

Sail Darwin Harbour, the location for the movie Australia. Take in the glorious sunset and see the lights of Darwin and the night stars on a day, evening or overnight cruise on Darwin Harbour and its surrounding waters aboard Daymirri 2, a luxury 10 metre Seawind catamaran.

Treat yourself to a full or half day luxurious chartered sailing experience taking in the sights of majestic, world famous Sydney Harbour. Anchor for the night at Athol Bay where you’ll watch the lights of the city come alive and illuminate the Opera House – a truly memorable experience.

Sail Sydney Harbour at twilight, with the city framed by the Harbour Bridge- a magical experience aboard a luxury Beneteau yacht for just one couple plus the skipper. At sunset, the yacht is anchored in a secluded cove, a seafood dinner is served and then guests are left alone overnight to take in the tranquillity, the stars and the soothing sound of waves lapping the beach. After breakfast, the skipper returns and hoists sail for the return trip.

See the best of Sydney from the water when you charter a crewed private yacht on Sydney Harbour. Sail past the Opera House, under the bridge, by Taronga Zoo, visit Pittwater for a night, or slowly tack around Farm Cove and Rose Bay. Anchor overnight in a secluded bay in Sydney Harbour or set sail through the heads and explore Pittwater.

Canada: The perfect destination

2010-05-18T02:54:00.000-07:00

Canada is one of the most exciting travel destinations in the world. The second-largest country in the world, it is a nation of tremendous cultural and ethnic diversity. Anchored by indigenous First Nations’ peoples and settled by French and British pioneers, Canada is a mosaic of culture and home to citizens from all over the world.

Few nations can equal Canada’s range of wildlife, natural splendour and geographic diversity. Bounded by the Atlantic, Pacific, and Arctic oceans, Canada features Rocky Mountain peaks, endless forests, prairie wheat fields, rainforest and desert. This extraordinary natural beauty is complemented by many vibrant cosmopolitan cities including Toronto, Montréal, Halifax, Calgary, Vancouver and Ottawa. Other exotic and unspoiled destinations include Banff & Jasper, Niagara, Whistler, Winnipeg, Churchill and Québec City.

Canada’s national parks contain some of the most diverse scenery on the planet. The rainforests to alpine glaciers, prairies to the Arctic, they support an immeasurable wealth and diversity of wildlife. Moose, deer, beavers, porcupines, elk, bald eagles and a great number of bears can be found roaming the wilderness of Canada. Polar bears, the fiercest members of the bear family, can be observed in Churchill, Manitoba.

A scenic rail trip is a must-do experience of a Canadian holiday to witness some amazing natural wonders, spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife. Ride aboard the world-acclaimed Rocky Mountaineer train, across the breathtaking scenery of the Canadian Rockies, rolling plains, picturesque meadows and the pristine blue sky.

An awe-inspiring experience is the spectacle of the mighty Niagara Falls on the international line between the cities Niagara Falls, Ontario and Niagara Falls, New York. These twin cities are connected by three bridges, including the Rainbow Bridge, which affords the closest view of the Falls. The Falls were formed 10,000 years ago as the retreating glaciers exposed the Niagara escarpment, thus permitting the waters of Lake Erie to flow north, over the scarp, to Lake Ontario.

Calgary, nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, is a city that combines a thriving metropolis with Western roots and friendly small town hospitality. The city is home to the annual Calgary Stampede – ten incredible days of rodeo, chuckwagon races, music, food and fun. Also located in the province of Alberta are the serene mountain towns of Jasper, Banff and Lake Louise.

Vancouver is an urban adventurer’s delight. A city where you can ski in the morning, sail in the afternoon and still make it back to town for a drink in the evening. Vancouver offers a unique combination of big-city lifestyle and outdoor fun in close proximity.

Québec City is Canada's most beautifully located and most historic city. Vieux-Québec, surrounded by solid fortifications, is the only walled city in North America and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its winding cobbled streets are flanked by 17th and 18th century stone houses and churches, graceful parks and squares, and countless monuments. A profoundly French city, with 95 percent French-speaking people, it is often difficult to remember which continent you are in as you tuck into a croissant and a steaming bowl of coffee in a Parisian-style café.

Canada has great amusement parks, public spaces, sports activities, games, casinos, spas, shopping centres, nightlife, hiking trails, parklands, fishing, golf, festivals, events and a wide array of exciting tours. The impressive natural surroundings offer fabulous outdoor opportunities, like hiking, skiing, rafting and fishing. The best time for outdoor activities is the fall, spring and summer. But if you want to enjoy skiing then you have travel during the winter months. Generally, spring runs mid-March to mid-May, summer mid-May to mid-September, fall mid-September to mid-November, and winter mid-November to mid-March.

Full of surprises, Canada is simply the most astonishingly beautiful country in the world. Take a scenic holiday into the heart of Canada. Keep exploring beautiful Canada.

Australia the gourmet way

2010-05-17T02:33:00.000-07:00

The frequently touted cuisine title of 'modern Australian' is more likely to include tastes of Asia, Europe and every corner of the world. Eating is part of the Australian experience – the melange of cuisines, the freshest produce and the modern, innovative and distinctly Australian way it is served up. Chefs and restaurants Down Under are garnering international attention. Talented young guns are producing cutting edge food, with an emphasis on fresh seasonal and regional produce. Gourmet retreats and fine restaurants are also springing up in regional areas across the county in places like Mudgee, Orange, the Margaret River, Mornington Peninsula, the Limestone Coast, and the Queensland hinterland. Here you can take farm gate tours, follow farm trails or visit wineries. Try a tasting plate, take a food tour, or splash out at five star hotels, resorts and retreats, where you can indulge in intimate gourmet experiences.

Australia's wine regions are producing fabulous wines and food. Take a private plane or helicopter to lunch in the Hunter, Yarra, Clare or Swan Valley. There are endless perfect settings for outside dining, whether it’s dinner in the desert under the big, starry skies at Uluru or a feast of ocean catch on the shore. Fantastic food accompanied by truly great wine is always on the menu in Australia. Now that the rest of the world has discovered the Taste of Australia the country has become a culinary destination par excellence. Join us in celebrating the evolving and exciting world of food and wine in Australia.
Key facts
* Cheong Liew’s signature dish, The Four Dances of the Sea, was once nominated by The Weekend Australian as Australia’s national dish. American Food & Wine magazine has also named Cheong one of the 'world’s 10 hottest chefs alive'.
* The 1990 Penfold’s Grange became the first wine outside California and France to be named Wine Spectator magazine’s Best Red Wine in the World.
* Absynthe on the Gold Coast was recently named as Australia’s Best Restaurant by British newspaper The Daily Mail.
* If you thought Port Douglas was just a sleepy seaside resort, think again. At 26 Spencer Patrick was the youngest chef to be awarded a Michelin star. After cooking in London's top eateries alongside such chefs as Raymond Blanc and Marco Pierre White, he has started a new venture, Harrisons, in Port Douglas, dishing up world class food.
* Tetsuya Wakuda’s Sydney restaurant has been voted among the top ten restaurants in the world numerous times. The French-Japanese food from Sydney’s kitchen wizard has dazzled the rest of the culinary world with his cool, elegant inner-city restaurant, which regularly appears on lists of the world’s finest dining experiences. The dinner menu is a fixed-price, degustation-style kaiseki menu of around a dozen courses.
* The Lakeside Restaurant at Cape Lodge in Western Australia’s Margaret River wine region, was recently voted number four in the world for food by Conde Nast Traveller.
* Lizard Island, 240km north of Cairns and 27km off the coast of North Queensland, was recently named the Best Desert Island Escape by the Forbes Traveller 400, the premier list of deluxe hotels. It also ranked sixth place in the Top 20 International Hideaways list by Andrew Harper’s Hideaway Report.
* Nine Sydney restaurants were awarded three stars in Australian Gourmet Traveller’s 2009 list of the best 100 Australian restaurants.
* Famed English seafood celebrity chef Rick Stein has moved to Australia and taken over at Bannister’s Lodge, a retreat on the stunning NSW South Coast at Mollymook.
Uniquely Australian
*Join the Kitchen Table at Aria, one of Australia’s award winning restaurant with panoramic views overlooking Circular Quay and the Sydney Opera House and high profile chef Matt Moran at the helm. With this exclusive in-kitchen fine dining experience, guests sit elevated on an observation platform within the kitchen, where they can observe the spectacle and drama of busy frontline chefs at work and interact with their chef as each course is created, from raw ingredients to plate. The Kitchen Table menu consists of eight tasting courses featuring some of Moran’s signature dishes and matching wines, creating a fabulous food experience.
* Eat at the restaurant awarded Australia’s best two years in a row by leading food guide Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide. Try the degustation menu of three hatted chef Peter Gilmore at Quay, which has fabulous views overlooking Sydney Harbour, the Opera House and Circular Quay from the top level of a cruise passenger terminal.
* Head to a relaxing gourmet retreat just outside Sydney. Renowned Sydney chef and cookbook author Stefano Manfredi who pioneered Modern Italian in Australia has taken over at Bells at Killcare, a relaxing country gourmet retreat at Killcare on the NSW Central Coast. Manfredi is also in charge of the menu at exclusive sister property, Pretty Beach House where guests get to eat whenever and wherever they’d like, on demand.
* Sample chef Cheong Liew’s sublime eight-course degustation menu, a gastronomic journey that you’ll never forget at one of South Australia’s top luxury dining experiences, The Grange Restaurant in the Adelaide Hilton.
* Discover the history of Australia’s premier wine at this world-renowned Australian establishment, home to South Australia’s most famous wine, Penfolds Grange. Explore the cellars, take a tutored tasting of premium wines, dine in one of Australia’s best restaurants and treat yourself to one of the most famous wines on the planet at Penfold’s Magill Estate, which is also home to Magill Estate Restaurant which is consistently rated one of the State’s top fine dining experiences.
* Eat your way around the island of Tasmania, a gastronomic paradise. In Hobart there’s Gondwana, Lebrina, Marque IV, Moorilla Estate and, just out of the city, Meadowbank Estate. In Launceston, Stillwater Restaurant and the Mill Providore, beside the beautiful Tamar River, has grown into one of Australia's favourite food destinations. In the north, regional fare features the stunning Georgian homestead Calstock, near Deloraine; on the west coast, gracious dining on the edge of the wilderness at Franklin Manor, Strahan; in the south, the stunning architecture of Peppermint Bay restaurant and provedore at Woodbridge; or the rammed earth restaurant at Home Hill Winery.
* Enjoy three days of tasting and discussing Tasmania's finest food and wines at Cradle Mountain Lodge. Indulge in a gourmet extravaganza, rated among the country's best food and wine experiences. Cradle Mountain Lodge has hosted Tasmania's premier culinary event, Tastings at the Top for the last 15 years. A stellar line-up of providores this year includes boutique winemakers, beer brewers and specialist growers from various regions in Tasmania. Taste your way from degustation dinners to wine tastings; to wilderness walks and decadent spa treatments at the famous Waldheim Alpine Spa, Tastings at the Top encompasses the very best Tasmania has to offer.
* Experience Wineglass to Wine Glass. Walk from Freycinet Lodge to Wineglass Lookout then down to the white-sanded shores of Wineglass Bay where a banquet awaits. Indulge in Tasmania's finest food and wine near the turquoise waters of the Freycinet Peninsula on Tasmania’s pristine East Coast. You will be served local produce and cool-climate wines, including the freshest seafood from east coast waters, Tasmanian beef and quail, salads and Tasmanian cheeses.
* Retreat to The Louise, an idyllic vineyard retreat in the heart of Shiraz country with breathtaking views, 15 luxury suites and a highly acclaimed onsite restaurant, Appellation. One of Australia’s top regional dining experiences, it is the perfect haven for food and wine connoisseurs, surrounded by hundreds of acres of vineyards in the Barossa Valley.
* Head out on a Food Safari of South Australia with Outback Encounter. A "foodie's" dream come true, you’ll try the freshest local produce and some of the best wines Australia has to offer. This tasting journey on a 9-seater private Propjet Charter plane, will take you across the South Australian state to meet with gourmet chefs, cheese makers, abalone farmers, olive oil producers, wine makers, tuna farmers, and swimming with the mighty Southern Blue Fin Tuna. This seven day Food Safari covers Kangaroo Island to the Eyre Peninsula and the Barossa Valley to hunt, collect and experience various local and regional delicacies.
* Tour the Margaret River region in style. Starting from either Injidup Spa Retreat or Smith’s Beach Resort in Yallingup, you’ll be picked up in a luxurious ivory Silver Shadow Rolls-Royce for a short tour. Awaiting you will be a gourmet lunch picnic. Then retreat to your villa and watch the sun set with a bottle of Pol Roger Champagne or order in-villa dining with a private chef.
* During a luxury stay in WA’s Margaret River region indulge in the scenery as well as the gastronomic delights and world-class wineries of the Margaret River region on a Margaret River Discovery Tour with either an exclusive small group or private touring. Visit a range of Margaret River's wineries, from the small emerging superstars to the esteemed estates, then indulge in a special food and wine pairing lunch at Cape Mentelle winery.
* Take a cooking lesson with award winning Executive Chef Tony Howell at the recently opened cooking school at the five-star Cape Lodge in the Margaret River region. A three hour class in the gourmet kitchen of Cape Lodge’s magnificent Private Residence, is followed by a five course dinner in the Cape Lodge Restaurant where Howell changes the menu daily and uses only the finest local produce. Located on its own vineyard on the banks of a private lake, three hours south of Perth, Cape Lodge is one of Australia’s finest boutique hotels.
* Indulge in a city sights stroll for the ‘epicurious’ in Melbourne, the Victorian capital. Taking in classic restaurants, and the latest buzz venues, The Sommeliers City Walk is a unique and interesting way to see and experience what’s happening in Melbourne’s wine and food scene. Small groups stroll and visit three restaurants tasting nine wines matched with nine generous menu “tastes” in an intimate setting with the city’s top sommeliers.
* Head east from Melbourne, to the rolling hills, contented cows and fabulous food of the famous Yarra Valley, an easy hour's drive. The Yarra Valley is now the home to over 40 wineries. Visit Domaine Chandon, the Australian arm of French Champagne giant Moet et Chandon. Stop for lunch at Yering Station, the site of the Valley’s oldest winery, with sensational views and delicious food. Then stay the night at Chateau Yering where you can continue the gastronomic journey.
* Follow your appetite to the region that takes indulgence to another level, Daylesford, a leisurely 90 minute drive from Melbourne. With tranquil rural atmosphere, spas and wonderful food, dinner at the multi-award winning Lake House is a 'must' destination for lovers of good food and wine. Daylesford is the gourmet heart in a region known for its highly-rated restaurants and food so fresh it comes straight from the paddock to your plate: chestnuts, wild mushrooms, morello cherries, wild berries, rabbits, venison, duck, free-range chickens and eggs, trout, yabbies, lamb and beef. The Lake House is part of the Small Luxury Hotel complex complete with six acres of manicured gardens, stylish accommodation and the Salus Day Spa.
* Learn the art of modern French cooking at Absynthe on the Gold Coast, recently named Australia’s Best Restaurant by British newspaper The Daily Mail. Learn from star chef Meyjitte Boughenout as he leads hands-on cooking classes on the professional art of food preparation and presentation. French-born Meyjitte has won numerous awards in Australia and scored two Michelin stars as head chef at a prestigious Belgian restaurant. Classes are held over four days from 2pm until 7pm on-site in the Absynthe kitchen.
* Dine with the Tides, a romantic dinner for two on the jetty at Orpheus Island, listening to the waves lap the shore and feeding the marine life below.
* Savour the seven course degustation menu at Peppers Spicers Peak Lodge, a two hour drive south-west of Brisbane. Breathe in the fresh mountain air and indulge in fine food and wine at this all-inclusive lodge, with just 10 luxurious suites, which sits atop a large private cattle property. At 1,100 metres, it’s the highest retreat in Queensland. If you feel like taking lunch into the great outdoors, the chef can prepare a gourmet hamper picnic for you.
* Stay in a luxury mountain retreat at Spicers Clovelly Estate, the first property in the new Spicers Retreats, Hotels and Lodges range of boutique properties, which opened this year near Montville in the Sunshine Coast hinterland. Set on nine hectares of lush country land, with only 10 suites it has modern French furnishings and luxury linens, a day spa and a fine dining restaurant with an innovative four or seven course degustation menu and extensive wine list.
* Eat in the Dune House at the heart of the camp at Longitude 1310, a stunning communal facility offering exquisite food and wine, a do-it-yourself or fully serviced cocktail bar, extensive library and reclusive lounge. Longitude 1310 is quite simply one of the best wilderness hotels in the world where you stay in one of fifteen tented sanctuaries in the desert, catering for just 30 guests and set atop an isolated sand dune near Uluru.
* Dine under a sparkling outback sky when you experience the Sounds of Silence. With the setting of the sun behind Kata Tjuta and Uluru in the distance, guests dine under the canopy of the desert night, your very own storyteller shares tales as told in the stars. As the sun sets, you feast on a buffet of authentic Australian delicacies including barramundi, kangaroo, emu and crocodile, bush salads and sweets, complemented by Australian wines. This is a unique dining experience that provides the romance of the desert, gourmet outback fare and star-filled heavens.
* Get close to politics and the corridors of power at The Ginger Room in the members dining room of Old Parliament House, one of Canberra’s most elegant and historic settings. European and Asian influences are drawn on by the owner/chef to create an exciting menu with an impressive selection of Australian, Italian and French wines and the adjoining lounge area is great for pre or post dinner drinks.
* Follow the Poacher's Way, trying one or all of the charming venues that form part of it. Dine with a vineyard view towards Parliament House at the extended Pialligo Estate Cafe in Pialligo. Feast while overlooking the mysterious Lake George at the Lerida Estate Winery. Delicious food matched with cool climate wines await at Lambert Vineyards near Bungendore and Shaw Vineyard Estate, Murrumbateman. Other outstanding country restaurants on the Poacher's Way include Grazing, the 2007 Australian Tourism Award Winner, at Gundaroo; Poachers Pantry Smokehouse Cafe near Hall where you can try delicious gourmet smoked products; the Lynwood Cafe in Collector and Cafe Schönegg which offers innovative dishes made with fresh regional produce at Country Guesthouse Schönegg.

A touch of romance in Australia

2010-05-14T02:01:00.000-07:00

Australia is the perfect place for romance. Take in one of our magnificent sunrises or sunsets wrapped in the arms of your beloved. Lose yourself on a secluded island retreat, be pampered at a glorious day spa or explore the peace and tranquillity of nature’s most spectacular landscapes. It doesn’t matter whether you’re on a honeymoon, a romantic getaway or celebrating an anniversary, Australia has romantic havens aplenty for you to explore.

You can find the perfect beach house, resort or private villa or a luxury pavilion in one of the most amazing places on earth. A place where you can walk barefoot on the beach, swing in a hammock, lounge about in the plunge pool or take in the view from your own private deck and watch the sun melt into the sea.

Enjoy canapés at sunset overlooking a secluded bay or a candlelit dinner on the beach. You can if you wish have your own personal chef and butler, private spa pool, plunge pool and rejuvenation therapies for an indulgent recharge. Take a resort boat and picnic hamper to a remote beach for a day’s seclusion or escape to your own private island.

Key facts
* Australia’s northernmost resort, Lizard Island sits right on the spectacular Great Barrier Reef in Queensland. The Ribbon Reefs near Lizard Island are also renowned for some of the best big game fishing in the world.
* Cradle Mountain Lodge, a wilderness retreat, is set on the northern edge of the World Heritage listed Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park in Tasmania.
* The Blue Mountains are blue because of droplets of eucalyptus in the air from the massive eucalypt forests.
* Kangaroo Island is a wildlife haven of international significance. Cut adrift from the mainland it preserves species that no longer exist in other parts of Australia.
* The Daylesford region of Victoria is an area that contains Australia's largest concentration of natural mineral springs.

Uniquely Australian
Stay at an exclusive island retreat at the privately owned eastern end of Bedarra Island. An oasis of seclusion for romantic couples, East Bedarra Villa is on the water’s edge on a two-acre estate that wraps around a palm-fringed white sand beach. Doorila Cove is considered the most beautiful beach on the island. Here you can swim or snorkel for hours in the warm clear turquoise waters of the coral sea.

Magical Mauritius

2010-05-12T02:27:00.000-07:00

The Republic of Mauritius is an island nation about 900 kilometres east of Madagascar. It was colonised only during the 17th century, when the Dutch occupied the land that was - and to some extent still is - a treasurehouse of flora and fauna; later the French moved in and then the British, until the island became independent in 1968. Today, it is the ideal holiday destination, providing the perfect vacation ambience with sun, sea, surf and sand, melding beautifully with friendly people, wonderful food and places to stay that come very close to the definition of heaven. Mercury Travels has two fabulous options for the holiday traveller to choose from...

Option 1
All rates are per person in USD valid till 31 Aug 2010

(except for Intercon which is valid till 31 July 2010)
Casuarina 3*
Standard package: 4 nights: USD 311
Standard package: 6 nights: USD 450
Ambre 4*
Standard package: 4 nights: USD 321
Standard package: 6 nights: USD 462
Honeymoon package: 4 nights: USD 311
Honeymoon package: 6 nights: USD 445
Maritim 4*
Standard package: 4 nights: USD 472
Standard package: 6 nights: USD 690
Honeymoon package: 4 nights: USD 362
Honeymoon package: 6 nights: USD 528
Intercontinental 5*
Standard package: 4 nights: USD 500
Standard package: 6 nights: USD 738
Honeymoon package: 4 nights: USD 452
Honeymoon package: 6 nights: USD 666
Inclusions:
· Accommodation on Half-board basis (including breakfast & dinners excl drinks)
· Airport – Hotel – Airport Transfers.
· Meet and greet at airport
· Full Day South tour including visits to Floreal, Volcanic Crater at Trou Aux Cerfs, Grand Bassin, Black River Gorges & Chamarel (including entrance fee)
· Full Day North tour including visit to Port Louis, Caudan Waterfront & Pamplemousses Garden**(excluding entrance fee)
· Full Day Ile Aux Cerf island tour with speed boat transfers
· Service of Local Representative during stay
· English Speaking Driver Guide
· All Transfers & Tours by AC Coach on Seat in Coach basis
Option 2
MAURITIUS LE MERIDIEN SUMMER SPECIAL 2010
All rates are per person in USD in Deluxe Room valid from 14 May - 26 Jul 2010
Standard package: 4 nights: USD 444
Standard package: 6 nights: USD 590
Honeymoon package: 4 nights: USD 368
Honeymoon package: 6 nights: USD 524
*HM: Honeymoon : complimentary t-shirt, pareo, bottle of house wine, honeymoon dinner & 25 minute duo massage
Package Inclusions:
· Accommodation on Half-board basis (including breakfast & dinners excl drinks)
· Airport – Hotel – Airport Transfers.
· Meet and greet at airport
· Full Day South tour including visits to Floreal, Volcanic Crater at Trou Aux Cerfs, Grand Bassin, Black River Gorges & Chamarel (including entrance fee)
· Full Day North tour including visit to Port Louis, Caudan Waterfront & Pamplemousses Garden**(excluding entrance fee)
· Full Day Ile Aux Cerf island tour with speed boat transfers
· Service of Local Representative during stay
· English Speaking Driver Guide
· All Transfers & Tours by AC Coach on Seat in Coach basis
*Terms and conditions apply.

Exclusive Australia

2010-05-11T02:25:00.000-07:00

Exclusive hideaways are everywhere – a secluded lodge, an intimate boutique hotel, a mountain or coastal retreat away from the crowds. Australia is home to some fabulous luxury properties. These private hideaways represent a new style of distinctively Australian casual elegance and luxury – places where you can relax in your own world.

Hide away in your own exclusive gated enclave on the northernmost tip of a Queensland resort island, at qualia. Your luxury timber pavilion with ceiling to floor glass walls has wraparound views over the Whitsundays, an infinity pool, gourmet dining on the water’s edge and a central spa where you can have a hot stone massage with 300 million year-old stones.

Be one of the first to stay in a world class sanctuary on Tasmania’s pristine Freycinet Peninsula. Saffire will be an inspirational coastal sanctuary delivering sophisticated five star luxury. A rejuvenating and enlightening retreat, Saffire will enrich, uplift, and change the way you feel about life.

Get away from the crowds on East Bedarra Island. Bedarra Hideaway, a privately owned retreat, is a work of art nestled between a lush backdrop of tropical rainforest and a pure white sun kissed secluded beach. Every square inch of this exclusive island hideaway has its own distinctive character - a blend of tropical hideaways around the world. Bedarra Hideaway’s three hexagon building is a reflection of world renowned photographer and owner Peter Lik's unique personality.

Enter the private gates and drive to the top of the escarpment to Pretty Beach House. Three secluded villas sit high on the Central Coast's secluded Wagstaffe Peninsula, 90 minutes north of Sydney. Pretty Beach House is resoundingly an exclusive hideaway for couples, with day beds and private heated plunge pools, a private chef on demand and around-the clock butler service.

Indulge with a guilt free conscience at New South Wales latest exclusive hideaway, Emirates Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa, Australia’s first luxury wildlife and conservation based resort. There’s just 40 freestanding pavilions, each with their own pools.

Hide from the neighbours at the Avalon Coastal Resort – soak in the Huon Pine bathtub as you admire the views through wall to wall glass of the magnificent Tasmanian East Coast and unwind. Don’t worry, there are no neighbours – just you, the cliffs and the ocean.

Immerse yourself in wild bush luxury at Bamurru Plains where you’ll find romance in the lap of nature. Stay in one of nine individual safari suites which blend into the surrounding bush in the Mary River floodplains to the west of Kakadu National Park. Listen to the sights and the sounds of the bush, as you soak up the atmosphere from the luxury of your secluded suite with all the creature comforts of a luxury hotel.

Stay in a luxury lodge on Kangaroo Island. Set high on a coastal clifftop, commanding spectacular ocean, beach and wilderness views, Southern Ocean Lodge is the ultimate fusion of nature and luxury. Premium lodge facilities, a spa retreat, personal service and sophisticated dining deliver a stylish and exclusive Kangaroo Island experience.

Experience the beauty and majesty of Moonlight Head Lodge on the Great Ocean Road in Victoria, an exclusive luxury lodge on Australia’s highest headland. Designed and owned by one of Australia’s foremost architects, Glenn Murcutt, it is orientated towards the sea, amidst dramatic landscapes and pure luxury in a magnificent semi wilderness location.

Escape to one of the most powerful places on earth, staying in complete luxury and awaking to your own private view of the sunrise over Uluru at Longitude 131. Your room is a palatial tent, and you will be one of a maximum of 30 guests ‘camping’ atop an isolated sand dune just outside the boundary of the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park in the Northern Territory.

Enjoy the exclusive islands, fabulous wilderness lodges, glamorous tented camps in the desert and in coastal sand dunes, exclusive spa and vineyard retreats, and remote country properties where you can leave the city behind and live ensconced in true outback luxury.

Down Under's urban intrigue

2010-04-27T02:23:00.000-07:00

Australia is a spectacular country with an array of diverse experiences, a melange of amazing culture and warm people. The Australian government’s migration programme has resulted in more than six million people from some 200 countries making Australia their home, bringing with them their cuisine and traditions. Their settlement in certain suburbs have made these precincts more interesting, and have helped shape the major Australian cities into the unique urban landscapes they are today.

In Sydney, head to the inner city suburb of Leichhardt for a taste of Italy. It was once a working class area populated by first and second generation Italian immigrants. ‘Little Italy’ is centred around busy Norton Street and has plenty of Italian cafes, restaurants, bookshops and a movie theatre.

Sydney’s Chinatown is another fascinating area. Located near Town Hall in the city centre, Chinatown is focused around Dixon Street. It’s a pedestrian mall with many Chinese restaurants and grocery stores. Close to Chinatown is Sydney’s Spanish quarter, where you can find several Spanish-style restaurants and bars.

For funky fashions and cheap-eat restaurants serving up everything from North African to Vietnamese choose Newtown, or for fashion boutiques and chic inner city atmosphere with an alternative side try Oxford Street. It leads up to the fashionable suburb of Paddington.

Further out of town the in-place for international cuisine is Cabramatta which has on offer cuisine from a large range of countries including Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Malaysia, Thailand, Lebanon, Iraq, Italy, Spain and Turkey.

Melbourne has some intriguing city precincts too. Among these is the bayside suburb of St Kilda with restaurants and bars that attract a distinctly bohemian crowd. The St Kilda Esplanade, which nudges up to a beach and a historic pier, is popular by day, while the restaurant and bar strips really come alive once dusk falls.

The city has its own Chinatown, centered on Little Bourke Street which is home to Australia’s oldest Chinese settlement dating back to the 1850s. Just north of the city centre grid are the suburbs of Carlton and Fitzroy. Carlton is known for its Italian restaurants and cafes which cluster along Lygon Street. Fitzroy revolves around edgy Brunswick Street, with its funky art galleries, alternative bookshops, restaurants, boisterous bars and cool cafes.

Perth suburbs of note include upmarket Subiaco, which offers a pedestrian village experience with a mix of friendly markets, boutiques, antique shops, pubs, restaurants and art galleries. Not far from Perth’s city centre is Fremantle - the best preserved example of a 19th century port streetscape in the world. Back streets reveal old dockworkers’ cottages, and warehouses converted into trendy apartments. Also here are the iconic Fremantle Markets, where you can shop for fashion, home wares, antiques and local produce. Treat yourself to Japanese, Turkish, Indonesian, French, or Vietnamese food too.

In Hobart, the state capital of Tasmania, you can find Salamanca Place. This was once the haunt of sailors, whalers, dock-workers and convict labourers. The old Georgian warehouses here are home to art galleries, theatres, cafes, craft shops and restaurants.

In Queensland’s state capital, Brisbane, the small inner-city enclave of West End is a free-spirited place known for its many ethnic restaurants, cafes, and Asian grocers. Then there’s the Fortitude Valley with its vibrant cafes, trendy fashion outlets, popular nightclubs, live music venues, renovated pubs, great restaurants, and the city’s very own Chinatown.

In South Australia, the suburb of North Adelaide is crammed with Victorian and Edwardian architecture and the streets are lined with restaurants, cafes, bistros, and six popular pubs. Northwest of the city centre is Port Adelaide, a historic seaport which is home to some of the finest colonial buildings and several museums, including the National Railway Museum.

Australia’s capital city, Canberra, is a relaxed culturally-significant place. In addition to the nation’s major museums and art galleries, Canberra hosts around 80 diplomatic missions from around the world in its leafy suburb of Yarralumla. The architecture here is well-worth seeing.

Discover these fascinating suburbs, off the main tourist route. Come and enjoy alluring Australia.

Picturesque Philippines

2010-04-26T02:13:00.000-07:00

The Philippines is your ultimate destination for a great vacation. An archipelago of 7,107 islands, it is located between the Philippine Sea in the east, the South China Sea in the west and the Celebes Sea in the south. It lies in the region called the Ring of Fire, characterized by a number of active volcanoes, including the Taal in the middle of Taal Lake, the Mayon in Legaspi City and the dormant Mount Apo in Davao.

Boracay, a butterfly-shaped island at the tip of Panay’s north-eastern coast, is home to White Beach - a 4-km strip of beautiful white sand rated as ‘the finest beach in the world’. On this beautiful island, you could pamper yourself with a luxurious massage at the spa or on the beach, or opt for spa therapy and yoga lessons at Mandala Spa and Villas, located just 5 minutes from the beach. Experience the thrill of the Banana Boat ride, explore the boutique shops around the island, check out the exciting nightlife or simply relax amidst the tropical atmosphere of sun, sea and sand.

Cebu is another fabulous island that boasts of rolling hills and rugged mountain ranges. Experience Mactan, a coral island in the heart of Cebu, home to the most pulsating nightlife in Asia. Easily accessible is Bohol, a unique island blessed with marvellous white beaches, colourful underwater marine life, dense forests, rich wildlife and a fascinating touch of Spanish influence. Visit a manmade mahogany forest and be introduced to the Tarsier – the world’s smallest monkey. Another must-see in Bohol is the famous Chocolate Hills - a collection of over 1,250 uniformly shaped hills between 30 and 50 meters high.

El Nido in the province of Palawan, the island of the Gods, is home to hidden lagoons, a palm forest, orchids and secluded, incredibly romantic resorts. A luxury kayaking safari is the best way to explore the El Nido and Bacuit Bay area. It is one of the most beautiful parts of Asia, where sheer karst rock formations drop down into the deep blue surrounding waters. Stunning white beaches and coves compete with mangroves, jungle, spectacular reefs and corals for attention. Spend your days kayaking, snorkelling, photographing and experiencing the amazing bio-diversity, including rare and unusual marine life, flora and flora.

Another must-see destination is Caluit Island, where you could explore numerous species of exotic African and Palawan endemic flora and fauna at the Games Preserve and Wildlife Sanctuary. Coron Island with its pristine Banol Beach and picturesque Cayangan Lake is truly inviting. Sink your feet into the powdered sugar-like sand. Take a dip in the invigorating Maquinit Hot Springs. Another amazing experience is the Tubbataha Reef, home to one of the best corals in the world. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and diving or snorkelling amidst the colourful corals reefs is a truly breathtaking experience.

The gateway to the Philippines is through Manila, the capital city with a Spanish body but a truly Philippino heart. Check out the old part of the city; take in the picturesque city of Tagaytay and the magnificent Taal Lake with its active island volcano. Shop to your heart’s content...from bargain basement finds to haute couture, Metro Manila is undisputedly a shoppers’ paradise. The shopping malls are one-stop centres where you can shop, dine and check out the recreation facilities. Native arts and crafts are among the best buys, and ready-to-wear clothes, embroidered apparel, women’s accessories, household furnishings and uniquely Filipino souvenirs are tempting.

Be it beaches, wildlife, marine life, shopping, dining or nightlife, the Philippines has it all. Come and experience the islands - a dozen holidays rolled into one.

A city Down Under

2010-04-23T02:26:00.000-07:00

Sydney is Australia’s biggest and most cosmopolitan city. Blessed with her own world-renowned harbour, she offers a plethora of exciting nightlife, shopping, attractions and events. In short, Sydney promises to be unlike any other destination you’ve been to.

Sydney possesses a vibrant and unique set of attractions for all ages and interests, but any visit should naturally begin with a tour of the world-famous Opera House, with its magnificent sails, majestic theatres and performance venues where decades of theatrical and musical magic have taken place. Another must-do experience is the BridgeClimb tour, during which you climb the summit of the renowned Harbour Bridge for breathtaking panoramas of the city.

Sydney’s unique quality lies in its harbour, so every trip requires a sightseeing cruise along the waters. Board any of the array of cruises from Circular Quay departing to nearby islands with their own range of attractions. We recommend heading to Taronga Zoo, 12 minutes away from the city and home to over 2,900 exotic and native species. For a unique evening entertainment, board a Showboat for a sensational theatre cabaret and the finest international and Australian cuisine.

Spend a day at Darling Harbour, a festive venue of non-stop activities. There’s a wide array of attractions, including nature and wildlife exhibits. After all that sightseeing, you may like to relax with a day of shopping. Choose from the world-class designer stores to markets where you can pick up extraordinary bargains, quirky one-off souvenirs and many other interesting items.
If you can, do time your trip to coincide with the many annual events in Sydney. From 27 May to 21 June, the Opera House is lit up in a dazzling spectacle of lights, marking the Vivid Sydney event - the city’s new public festival of music, light and ideas, transforming The Rocks and Circular Quay into a spectacular living canvas (For more check out http://www.vividsydney.com/).

Sydney's beautiful Surrounds offer a full spectrum of attractions and experiences that are no less spectacular and rewarding. Visit sparkling waterways, World Heritage-listed national parks, age-old mountains and ravines, cascading waterfalls and some of the most stunning beaches on the planet.

Head to the Blue Mountains to revitalize and rejuvenate your senses. Be charmed by this tranquil region with its stunning views, lush greenery and bracing mountain air. Visit Scenic World, where you can ride the steepest incline railway in the world, and the Jenolan Caves, which are the oldest limestone caves ever discovered. Do stop at Bygone Beauties in Leura with its quaint collection of vintage gifts and teapots.

If you’re a wine connoisseur, the Hunter Valley region is the perfect place. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Brokenback Mountains, this wine country invites you to indulge in a luxurious lifestyle of wine-tasting, gourmet shopping, spa treatments and premier golf courses. An enchanting experience is ride in a hot air balloon as it floats gently above the vineyards.
Port Stephens is where all the fun and adventure is. This is the dolphin capital of Australia; board a cruise from Nelson Bay to see the dolphins playfully frolicking a few feet from you. Home to the largest moving sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere, Port Stephens is where you can embark on a rugged 4-wheel drive tour.

Wollongong is the perfect place for a relaxing coastal holiday. The best way to get here is to rent a car and drive down from Sydney taking in the scenic views en route. Pause for a photo op moment at the Sea Cliff Bridge, a great viewing platform for spectacular oceanic views. Parasail or tandem-glide from Bald Hill, exhilarating experiences with the added reward of inspiring panoramas of some of the most beautiful coastlines in Australia.

Qantas offers great connections and attractive fares into Sydney and Australia. So plan your holiday to Sydney and its Surrounds now.

Catch the early bird for Singapore!

2010-04-22T02:02:00.000-07:00

Early Bird offers for the 2010 FORMULA 1 SINGTEL SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX
Singapore is all set to woo F1 enthusiasts from all over the world with the grand third edition of the Formula One night race on 24–25-26 September, 2010. The SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX was the first Formula One to be held at night, and the first Formula One™ street race in Asia.
The three-day general admission tickets for the 2010 FORMULA 1 SINGTEL SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX are at a tempting early bird price up to 30 April and at the regular price from 1 May till race week.

The early bird phase up to 30 April offers fans an average saving of approximately 15 percent, with the Padang, Turn 3, Esplanade Waterfront and Bay Grandstands offering the best savings at 17 percent. “Over the past two events we’ve learnt that we can make significant savings by planning early,” said Mr Teo Hock Seng, Chairman of Singapore GP Pte Ltd (SGP).
Five grandstand ticket prices lowered compared to last yearFollowing feedback from last year’s ticketholders, Singapore GP has worked hard to ensure that the top-end grandstand tickets are more price-accessible. Working closely with key partners, Singapore GP has been able to leverage cost savings and pass on 14 percent savings to fans for the Pit Grandstand and 8 percent for Turns 1 and 2. The Stamford and Connaught Grandstands offer 11 percent and 19 percent savings respectively.
Remaining grandstands and Zone 4 Walkabout tickets held at 2009 prices The Bay, Padang, Turn 3 and Esplanade Waterfront Grandstands as well as Zone 4 Walkabout tickets have been held at 2009 price levels.
Responding to feedback, Singapore GP will for the first time release a walkabout ticket that allows fans access to Zone 1. This new category of three-day tickets - the Premier Walkabout - allows fans, for example, to watch the action along Republic Boulevard where the cars approach the sweeping right-hander at Turn 5. At Turns 22 and 23, spectators can see first-hand drivers entering the pit lane or heading towards the chequered flag. Zone 1 will be equipped with specially designed bleachers to maximise viewing opportunities. Premier Walkabout ticketholders also have access to the entertainment offerings in the rest of the Circuit Park.
existing Zone 4 Walkabout tickets continue to provide fans the same access as 2009. This year, facilities have been improved to include additional viewing bleachers and more screens to enhance the overall experience.
This year, single-day tickets for the Zone 4 Walkabout will only be introduced once the entertainment offerings have been announced for each day.
As the Circuit Park initial entertainment line-up will only be confirmed in the coming months, fans who want to catch the performances on specific days can then choose to visit when their favourite artistes are performing.
Although single-day walkabout prices are not yet released, it is expected that three-day tickets will offer at least 25 percent savings over individual day tickets. ”The 2010 FORMULA 1 SINGTEL SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX will see a fresh line-up of drivers, new race teams, and the highly-anticipated return of FORMULA ONE legends. Coupled with an exciting line-up of support races and approximately S$5 million dollars worth of entertainment throughout the Circuit Park, fans can expect an even more spectacular event come September,” said Mr. Michael Roche, Executive Director, Singapore GP Pte Ltd.

Grand Prix Dates: 24 – 25 – 26 September 2010
SINGAPORE F1 PACKAGE (Accommodation & Airport Transfer)
Package Validity: 24th – 27th September 2010 (3 nights)
All costs (USD) are per person on twin sharing basis
Albert Court Village/ Landmark Village (Rates valid for bookings before 30 June 10) - 3.5* - USD 500
Fort Canning Lodge - 3.5* - USD 300
Hotel Royal @ Queens (walkable distance to circuit) - 3.5* - USD 475
Peninsula Excelsior (walkable distance to circuit) - 3.5* - USD 475
River View Hotel - 3.5* - USD 478
Grand Park City Hotel (walkable distance to circuit) - 4* - USD 606
Park Hotel Clarke Quay - 4* - USD 546

OPTIONAL - GRAND PRIX TICKET IN SGD (SINGAPORE DOLLARS)
All costs are per person in SGD
Ticket Category ( 3 days)
Early Bird - upto 30 Apr 2010 / Regular Price - 01 May onwards
Pit Grandstand - SGD 1088 / SGD 1288
Turn 1 Grandstand - SGD 1088 / SGD 1288
Turn 2 Grandstand - SGD 1088 / SGD 1288
Turn 3 Grandstand - SGD 988 / SGD 1188
Stamford Grandstand - SGD 798 / SGD 898
Connaught Grandstand - SGD 598 / SGD 698
Padang Grandstand - SGD 498 / SGD 598
Esplanade Waterfront Grandstand - SGD 498 / SGD 598
Bay Grandstand - SGD 248 / SGD 298
Premier Walkabout - SGD 348 / SGD 398
Zone 4 Walkabout - SGD 168 / SGD 188

Ticket Category (Suites *) / Costs (Dedicated Pit Straight / T1/T2/T3 Sky Club suites and Stamford Sky suites are available for group’s bookings of 50 pax.)
Green Room @ T1 / T2 / T3 / Stamford - SGD 3745
Shared Stamford Sky Suite - SGD 6955
Shared Pit Straight Club Suite - SGD 5885
Shared Pit Straight Sky Suite - SGD 7490

For more information on the Singapore Grand Prix - http://www.singaporegp.sg/

Package includes:
• 03 night’s accommodation at hotel (check in on 24 Sep and check out 27 Sep)
• Daily breakfast
• Return airport transfers on private basis

Package does NOT include:
• Airfare, ticket taxes and visa fees
• Meals (unless mentioned)
• F1 tickets
• Transfer to the F1 circuit and back on all 3 days (taking a taxi is much cheaper than a transfer)
• Travel and medical insurance
• Surcharges applicable if any
• Meals not specified above
• Expenses of personal nature
• Tips and porterage
• Anything not mentioned in the inclusions above

NOTES:
• The above rates are valid for Indian nationals residing in India only and for minimum of 02 passengers traveling together at all times
• The above rates are subject to the availability of accommodation, sightseeing tours, airfare and transport at the time of booking. We reserve the right to use alternate accommodation, airfare and transport of an equal or higher standard. If we source a more expensive alternative, we reserve the right to re-quote based on the higher rates.
• Surcharges may be applicable for trade fairs, events, fairs and festivals, public holidays and are not included in the price above. The above rates are subject to change due to the same and hence need to be checked at the time of making the final booking. In case there is a surcharge applicable the above rates are not valid.
• NO REFUND OR EXCHANGE ON FORMULA 1 TICKETS ONCE BOOKED
• NO AMENDMENTS IN THE BOOKING IS ALLOWED
• The above is just a quote and not a booking and the rates are subject to change without prior notice.
• No refunds either in part or full will be made for any unused ground transportation, meals, accommodation or sightseeing tour not taken on the above packages.
• Clients have to take care of own tipping, porterage and any other personal expenses
• The timings and days of operation all the sightseeing tours and excursions are subject to alteration. Changes if any will be intimated at the time of making the booking.
• Normal check in time is 1500 hours and check out time is 1100 hours. Early check in or late check out is never guaranteed and can only be requested for. In case the client would like a guaranteed early check-in or late check out, the room will need to be booked from the previous night or for the next night respectively.
• Bookings once confirmed are subject to 100 percent cancellation charges without any exception.
• Mercury Travels is not responsible in case of any change in the price due to factors not in the control of the organization

Lure of the Black Forest

2010-04-21T02:18:00.000-07:00

The Black Forest mountains extend along the Rhine, close to Lake Constance, Switzerland and Alsace. The region is famed for its food and drink, distinctive traditional hats and cuckoo clocks.
The Black Forest, or Schwarzwald to give it its German name, is famous the world over. Deeply rooted in its traditional culture, the Black Forest is an area of mountains and forest 200 kilometres long and up to 60 kilometres wide, which borders France in the west, Switzerland in the south, the Swabian Alb and Lake Constance in the east, and the Kraichgau region in the north.

Climatic, hydrotherapy and other health resorts are dotted all over the Black Forest, whose thermal springs have been prized since Roman times. The Enz, Nagold and Alb rivers and their tributaries have carved deep valleys into the densely wooded sandstone massif of the northern Black Forest region.

A journey through the northern Black Forest takes you through forests of fir and pine and across high plateaus. In the hilly Ortenau region, Riesling, Ruländer, Traminer, Pinot Noir and Spätburgunder grapes grow on the steep vine-clad hills which drop down into the Upper Rhine Valley.

Fairy-tale villages, thermal baths, casinos and pine- and birch-clad mountains beckon travellers to southwestern Germany's Black Forest. Scenic drives and train trips showcase the best of the area. Skiing, hiking, mountain-climbing, boating and ice-skating are popular activities. Baden-Baden's Roman-Irish baths, 19th-century concert hall, casino and fresco-adorned Pump Room are much visited. Gothic masterpiece Freiburg Cathedral and its famous Boys' Choir also draw visitors.

A convenient route for your Black Forest holiday is to begin with Lake Constance with its stunning views of the Swiss Alps. Lake Constance is a centre for water sports, while the town is rich in castles, baroque churches, museums and other attractions.

A three hour train ride from Lake Constance takes you to Freiburg, the heart of the Black Forest. At the centre of the old city is the Münsterplatz, its largest square and the site of the Freiburg Cathedral noted for its towering spire. The town’s picturesque old quarter, has twisting lanes, pretty courtyards, traditional restaurants, quaint bars and open streams known as ‘Bächle’ - which flow through the streets and lanes adding to the charm.

A short 40 minute train ride from Freiburg takes you to Baden-Baden. Located on the western foothills of the Black Forest, on the banks of the Oos River, it is famed as a chic spa resort. One of the most beautiful and important buildings in the town, the Spa Assembly Rooms are Baden-Baden's famous landmark. They are the social heart of Baden-Baden and the scene of glittering galas and balls, grand concerts and broadcast events. Once rejuvenated in the thermal spa, spend the evening at the famously elegant Baden-Baden Casino - the oldest and most traditional casino in all of Europe.

Heidelberg, one of the most beautiful cities in Germany, is an hour’s train ride away. It is home to the famous Heidelberg Castle ruins with its medieval, baroque and Renaissance buildings, and the famed Hiedelberg Tun - the world´s largest wine barrel.

Another one-hour train ride from Heidelberg takes you to Stuttgart, the capital of the Baden-Württemberg state. The Porsche Museum, the Mercedes Benz Museum, a few other lovely museums and art galleries, palaces and castles are some of the famed attractions of the city. The Mercedes-Benz Museum shows around 160 vehicles on permanent display, while the Porsche Museum shows over 80 serial vehicles, prototypes and racing cars. What better way to unwind in the evenings than at any of the beer halls (Bierhalle) around the city!

Vibrant cities, enchanting medieval villages, traditional wine villages and picturesque countryside. Castles, palaces and abbeys that showcase German romanticism. Fun and sport, wellness and relaxation. Germany is indeed a land of a thousand possibilities.

Excitement in Chile

2010-04-19T03:07:00.000-07:00

South America is a land of contrasts, from high mountains to some of the the most beautiful beaches in the world. Once known as a dark and mysterious region, it was home to people who built spectacular monuments and knew strange and esoteric secrets that are still undiscovered today. Start your adventure in this exciting continent with a visit to Chile's capital, Santiago. Plan your trip with Mercury Travels and experience a new kind of magic...

CHILE - SANTIAGO (4 nights/5 days)
Day 1 – Arrive Santiago
You are received at Santiago airport and transferred to the hotel by coach. Commence with a half day city tour by coach. The tour starts from the Iglesia San Francisco (San Francisco Church); a brief stopover at the Club Hípico - one of the most beautiful horse racing courses in South America; then downtown past the Palace Cousiño; before a brief halt at the Plaza de la Constitución (The Constitution Square). Continue towards the Plaza de Armas, which houses the Cathedral Church, the City Hall and the National History Museum. Stop at the Cerro Santa Lucía (Santa Lucía Hill), before crossing the Mapocho River to reach the residential areas with its beautiful houses, parks and malls. Visit FABA, a fine lapizlazuli handicraft store. Overnight in Santiago.
Day 2 – Santiago
Enjoy a full day Vina Del Mar and Valparaiso tour by coach. Enjoy the 110 km drive across the beautiful valleys of Curacaví and Casablanca. On arrival at Valparaíso, take in the scenic view of the clusters of houses alongside the hills. Drive along the coastline road to Viña del Mar, also known as the Ciudad Jardín (Spanish for ‘Garden City’), due to its impressive parks, walks and beautiful buildings. One of its key attractions is the exclusive casino founded by Don José Francisco Vergara. Viña del Mar has several beaches like the Reñaca, Las Salinas, Miramar and others. Reñaca is its main beach and has several prestigious restaurants and modern buildings. Return to Santiago in the mid-afternoon. Overnight in Santiago.
Day 3 – Santiago
Today is earmarked for a full day Vinedo tour. Visit the Iglesia de San Francisco (San Francisco Church), before spending an exciting day at a vineyard. A truly memorable experience! Overnight in Santiago.
Day 4 – Santiago
After breakfast, proceed on your full day Isla Negra tour. Isla Negra (Black Island) is a beach named after its dark colored sand, surrounded by pine tree and eucalyptus wood. Stop for a visit to the house of Pablo Neruda, Literature Nobel Prize Winner in 1974, which is now turned into a museum. Spend some time at the El Quisco beach. Proceed south along the coastline, past several beaches such as El Tabo, Las Cruces, San Sebastian and Cartagena. Then take the Autopista del Sol (Highway of the Sun) stopping at Pomaire, a small town famed for its clay pottery and handicrafts. Overnight in Santiago.
Day 5 – Depart Santiago
After breakfast, its time for your transfer to the airport for your return flight back home.

Join the Club!

2010-04-13T02:55:00.000-07:00

The memories will stay. The offers may not.

When you choose to holiday with Mercury Travels at an idyllic Club Med resort, you choose a holiday where every little thing has already been taken care of. Where there is so much to do that a few days will not be enough, yet should you so desire, the freedom to do nothing at all. Where the service is attentive yet discreet, the food delectable yet wholesome. Book your All-Inclusive Club Med holiday now. Before the fabulous offers we’ve designed especially for you become a distant memory.

Companion Stays Free* in Bali, Phuket or Cherating Beach
Valid for bookings up to 20 April
Valid for travel up to 30 June
Starting at Rs 28,400** per couple for a 4 nights package

Companion Stays Free* in Beach Villas or Lagoon Suites at Kani, Maldives
Valid for bookings up to 30 April
Valid for travel up to 30 June
Starting at Rs 64,170** per couple for a 3 nights package

Kids Stay Free* at Bintan Island or Mauritius
Valid for bookings up to 30 April
Valid for travel up to 30 June
Starting at Rs 50,380** per couple for a 3 nights package

*All offers are subject to room availability and black out date. Terms and conditions apply.
** Prices vary as per resort chosen and dates of travel. Excludes airfare.

Club Med Premium All-Inclusive package includes:
· Twin-share accommodation
· Sumptuous buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner with free-flow of red and white wine and beverages during lunch and dinner
· Open bar and snacking services – All day drinks and snacks
· Nightly entertainment

Children’s Facilities
· Club Med Baby Welcome for children below 2 years old: Available at most of the Family Resorts, with high levels of quality facilities, nursing equipment and qualified staff to take care of young babies , giving parents a well-deserved break
· Petit Club Med for children 2-3 years old (at extra cost): Open 7 days a week from 9am to 5.30pm and from 7.30pm to 9pm. Petit Club Med is geared towards making your child’s holiday an exciting one of fun activities with children of their age.
· Mini Club Med for children 4 – 10 years old: For children with a passion for activities. Mini Club Med is the perfect outlet for their boundless energy with activities like the Bungy Bounce and Flying Trapeze.
· Junior’s Club Med / Club Med Passworld for children 11 -1 7 years old: Meeting with children in their own age-groups and partaking in activities designed specifically for them takes the pressure off parents who want to unwind at their own pace.

All sports activities with instruction
· Flying Trapeze • Table Tennis
· Circus School • Yoga
· Tennis • Archery
· Golf • Club Med Fitness
· Beach Volleyball • Snorkelling
· Bungy Bounce • Kayak
· Ecotourism • Windsurfing
· Wall Climbing • Sailing
· Badminton • Water aerobics
· Football

Also available (at extra cost)
o Golf
o Spa and beauty treatments
o A range of excursions to experience the local culture
o Scuba diving
o Land transfers

Please note that activities and services vary at each resort. Your Mercury Travels consultant will suggest the Club Med resort that best suits your requirements.

River saga

2010-04-12T02:41:00.001-07:00

There is a lot to see and do in the magnificent land that is South America. That is why Mercury Travels has various options for you - live it up in one of the big cities, or wander through the more remote ancient settlements or explore a world that few have seen. Or, just to experience a small slice of the mighty rain forest, drift down the Amazon river and feel the call of a jungle where all life may have begun...

PERU’S POSADA AMAZONAS (2 nights/3 days)

Day 1 – Puerto Maldonado/Posada Amazonas
Upon arrival from Cusco, you are met and taken to the Tambopata river port in Puerto Maldonado. Puerto Maldonado is situated at the confluence of the mighty Madre de Dios and Tambopata rivers. It is a bustling and booming town, known for its gold mining, timber extraction, agriculture and ecotourism. After a brief survey of the town, take the motorized canoe for a two hour ride to Posada Amazonas. The boat ride is your opportunity to see bird species typical of the river or forest edge such as the Black Skimmer, Pied Lapwing, Capped Heron, Jabiru Stork, Roadside Hawk, and several species of kingfishers, swallows and flycatchers.
Posada Amazonas is a comfortable yet unobtrusive 24 room lodge owned jointly by the Rainforest Expeditions and the Local Community of Infierno. After a short briefing on the lodge and the Ecotourism Project, you commence with a visit to the 35 meter scaffolding tower. The scaffolding tower is built so that you can climb safely using the internal staircase with verandahs on each side, and rest on the platforms built at every two meters. From the tower, you get spectacular views of the river and surrounding forest, in addition to observing birds like parrots, toucans and macaws. A video about the forest of Tambopata is played after dinner.
Day 2 – Posada Amazonas
Visit the Tres Chimbadas oxbow lake at dawn. After an early breakfast, travel fifteen minutes from Posada Amazonas by boat and thirty minutes by foot to the lake shore. Take a long, easy canoe ride around the lake while keeping a lookout for giant river otters, turtles, hoatzin and wading birds. Return to the lodge’s trails in time for a visit to a small parakeet clay lick. Dozens, and sometimes hundreds of Blue Headed Parrots, Orange-Cheeked Parrots, Cobalt-winged Parakeets, and sometimes even the rare Rock Parakeet, congregate here on clear days to ingest clay. This congregation creates a riotous and colorful spectacle where the greens, oranges, reds and blues of the parrots dance around the bank as they compete for their beakful of clay. Return to the lodge for lunch, before embarking on an afternoon outing to the community’s Ethnobotanical Center. From this little shop, the community has been registering the uses of medicinal plants from elders, planting, producing and distributing them for over ten years. Hike the trails around the center with one of the residents who will explain the everyday uses of forest resources in medicine, construction, food and fiber. Return to Posada Amazonas for dinner and overnight. After enjoying our popular happy hour and refurbishing your spirits, you may take an optional night walk to look for amphibians and insects.
Day 3 – Depart Posada Amazonas
After an early breakfast, depart by boat back to the city of Puerto Maldonado and onward to the airport.
Please carry the following articles for the stay in the jungle:
Long pants (no jeans), long sleeved shirt, shorts, t-shirts, rain gear, flashlight with extra bulb and batteries, sneakers, hiking boots, shower shoes, binoculars, camera, repellent, personal toiletries, sun glasses, sun block, rubber boots, bathing suit.

Spectacular South America

2010-04-06T03:17:00.000-07:00

South America is a kaleidoscopic fusion of pristine beaches, unexplored rainforests, manic metropolises and ancient civilizations. From a culture steeped in rich heritage to sceneries that are simply breathtaking, this land is as alive as the pulsating rhythms of the samba. Brazil leaves you speechless with its unbridled vibrancy and stunning beaches. Peru astonishes you with its potpourri of Pre Inca, Inca, Spanish, Colonial and Republican cultures and the Legendary Lost City of the Incas - Machu Picchu. Chile is sure to overwhelm you with its staggering beauty. Not forgetting Argentina, that has attracted the Portuguese and Spanish conquistadores over the centuries.

Come experience this spectacular land with us. We promise you an experience that stays forever. The Wonders of South America is a suggested holiday itinerary. You can extend your stay with the suggested holiday extensions at Peru’s Posada Amazonas or Chile’s Santiago. Mercury Travels offers customized holidays to South America and other exotic destinations. Come and see South America the way you want you to.

WONDERS OF SOUTH AMERICA
Sao Paulo/Rio de Janeiro/Iguazu/Lima/Cusco/Machu Picchu/Buenos Aires
(12 days/11 nights)
Day 1 – Arrive Sao Paulo
Welcome to Brazil. Upon arrival, you are greeted and transferred to your hotel. Overnight in Sao Paulo.
Day 2 – Sao Paulo/Rio de Janeiro
Cosmopolitan Sao Paulo is known as the city that never sleeps. Proceed in the morning on a half day tour of the city, including a visit to the Sao Paulo Museum of Art and the Butanta Snake Farm. Later in the day, you board the flight to Rio de Janeiro. Upon arrival in Rio de Janeiro, you are received at the airport and transferred to your hotel. A sumptuous dinner and show at Plataforma awaits you. Overnight in Rio de Janeiro.
Day 3 – Rio de Janeiro - Sugar Loaf and Corcovado Tour
After breakfast, its time for the full day Sugar Loaf and Corcovado Tour, including lunch. The tour leaves the hotel, driving along the beautiful beaches of Rio and taking in the lagoon Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas, before reaching the quaint Cosme Velho district. You will ride through Rio’s beautiful architectonic monuments, visit the Metropolitan Cathedral and ascend the peaks of the Corcovado Mountain and Sugar Loaf Mountain using a series of cable car rides. Corcovado Mountain with its Statue of Christ the Redeemer and the Sugar Loaf Mountain known as Rio’s postcard, offer magnificent views of the city bordered by the Atlantic Ocean. Overnight in Rio de Janeiro.
Day 4 – Rio de Janeiro/Iguazu
This morning you are escorted to the airport to board the flight for Iguazu. Upon arrival you are met and transferred to your hotel. Overnight in Iguazu.
Day 5 – Iguazu - Brazilian Falls
The day is earmarked for a full day tour of the Brazilian Falls. Drive through the lush subtropical vegetation of the park en route to the falls. The Iguazu National Park is the most significant remaining rainforest in the southern cone which together with the cataracts has been declared a National Heritage Site by UNESCO. Stroll along the trail descending the canyon for a panoramic view of more than 240 falls. Overnight in Iguazu.
Day 6 – Iguazu/Lima
Goodbye Brazil. Hello Peru. You are transferred to the airport for your flight to Lima. On arrival, you are met and escorted to your hotel. A documentation kit, detailed program explanation and hotel registration assistance is offered. Overnight in Lima.
Day 7 – Lima/Cusco
This morning you are transferred to the airport to board your flight to Cusco. Upon arrival, you are met and escorted to the hotel. The rest of the morning is free to rest and get acclimatized to the altitude. In the afternoon you are taken on a tour of this Imperial City, to soak in the fascinating mixture of the Andean and Spanish cultures. Visit the Santo Domingo Convent, built over the ancient Inca place of worship called the Koricancha or the Temple of the Sun. Stop at the Main Square, to see the Cusco Cathedral and the La Compañía de Jesús Church, which rivals the cathedral in grandeur and prominence. Visit the Sacsayhuaman Fortress, an imposing sample of military Inca architecture. The tour is incomplete without a visit to the archaeological sites of Qenko, Puca-Pucara and Tambomachay, located north east of the city. Overnight in Cusco.
Day 8 – Cusco - Machu Picchu
Today you visit Machu Picchu, also known as The Lost City of the Incas. It is designated as a World Heritage Site and declared one of the wonders of the world. The excursion commences, in the morning, by train. During the journey, enjoy amazing views of the landscapes of the Sacred Valley of Urubamba. Upon arrival at the Aguas Calientes train station, you are assisted in boarding the bus that takes you to the citadel. A professional tour guide will lead you around this historic, mysterious and charming place. Post the guided tour, you can explore the area on your own, relax and meditate. Enjoy a buffet lunch at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, located adjacent to the citadel and part of the Orient-Express Hotels. In the afternoon, you board the train that takes you back to Cusco. On arrival at Poroy Station, you are met and transferred to your hotel. The evening is free for you to enjoy Cusco’s nightlife. Overnight in Cusco.
Day 9 – Cusco - Sacred Valley of the Incas/Pisac/Ollantaytambo
This tour is available on Tuesday, Thursday or Sunday. Drive towards the Sacred Valley of the Incas, taking the direct route to Pisac. Stop en route to view the beautiful Urubamba valley with lush crops dressing the mountains like carpets. On arrival at the colorful market of Pisac, you have time to meet the local craftsmen and purchase their hand-made souvenirs. Proceed to the town of Urubamba for a buffet lunch. Post lunch, visit Ollantaytambo, the attractive town of Inca origin with remarkable channels and stone streets. This town is built on top of original Inca foundations and is the best surviving example of Inca town planning. There are several houses dating back to the Incan time that you can stroll past, in addition to visiting the formidable ruins of the fortress that guarded the valley. Overnight in Cusco.
Day 10 – Cusco/Lima/Buenos Aires
This morning you are transferred to the airport for your flight to Lima. Upon arrival, you are met and taken on a tour of Lima, the City of Kings. Visit the Main Square that houses the Government Palace, the City Hall, the Cathedral and the Archbishop’s Palace. Later, you visit the San Francisco Convent, an architectonic jewel dating back to the 16th century. Return to the airport to take the flight to Buenos Aires. Overnight in Buenos Aires.
Day 11 – Buenos Aires
Take a three hour tour of Buenos Aires and see the Main Square - Plaza de Mayo, surrounded by the Casa Rosada (Presidential Headquarters Office), the Cabildo (Colonial Town Hall) and the Cathedral. Drive through the charming streets of San Telmo; down the colorful roads of La Boca, famous for its multicolor tin houses; and the elegant Barrio Norte on your way to the Recoleta Cemetery, an amazing aboveground cemetery lined with mausoleums and statues. Finally, visit Palermo and its magnificent mansions and parks. The evening is earmarked for dinner and the Tango Show at La Ventana. Overnight in Buenos Aires.
Day 12 – Depart Buenos Aires
The morning is set aside for your half day tour of the Tigre and Delta. Tigre, is the starting point to visit hundreds of islands, as one sails up the Parana River which flows into Rio de la Plata (River Plate) and together with the Sarmiento and Lujan rivers forming a beautiful Delta. At the scheduled time, you are transferred to the airport for your flight back home or you could opt to extend your stay with additional holiday options.

Ireland for ever!

2010-03-19T03:01:00.000-07:00

Ireland is steeped in history and can trace its heritage to almost 5,000 thousand years ago with archaeological sites like Newgrange, near Dublin and the Ceide Fields in County Mayo. Ireland is also famous for its warm welcome – its 'Cead Mile Failte' or '“One Hundred Thousand Welcomes'. How better to experience Ireland than with our Georgian Farmhouse tour, where history and the warm Irish welcome can be combined! The Georgian Period was from the late 1700’s through to the end of the 1800’s and coincided with the rule of the various King Georges throughout that period. Our programme is based on bed and full Irish breakfast ccommodation in en-suite bedrooms in stylish Georgian or other period/historic farmhouses. The accommodations we use are generally those whose basic structures would have been built from the late 1700’s to the late 1800’s and have been occupied by the same families since then; many of them are still full working farms.

Georgian Farmhouse tour
DAY 1: Dublin Airport and Transfer to Wicklow (85km)
Arrive at Dublin Airport and drive to Wicklow area – depending on time of arrival, there may be some time for local touring or perhaps a visit to the 6th century monastic settlement at Glendalough or Powerscourt House and Gardens.
Overnight in Wicklow.
DAY 2: Dublin’s Fair City (145km)
Travel to Dublin city where you can trace the history of this colourful city from early Viking origins, through the mediaeval magnificence of St. Patrick’s Cathedral – visits to Dublinia, Guinness Storehouse, Jameson Irish Whiskey Distillery, Trinity College and much, much more. Return to Wicklow for overnight.
DAY 3: Medieval Kilkenny (90km)
Travel to Kilkenny area. En-route you can visit the Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens in Kildare. Continue on to the medieval city of Kilkenny where perhaps you could enjoy a walking tour of the city, which commences at Shee Alms House, now the tourist office, but formerly offering shelter for the poor of Kilkenny during the middle ages and continue through the narrow streets and slip ways where you can see many of the historic sites Kilkenny is famous for. You can also visit Kilkenny Castle which stands on a majestic site beside the river Nore. This magnificent castle, dating from 1172, lies in a beautiful 50-acre park. The Gobelin tapestries and Great Hall have been restored to reveal their former splendour.
Overnight in the Kilkenny area.
DAY 4: Cork & West Cork or Kerry (175km)
This morning leave Kilkenny and travel south towards Cork, Ireland’s second largest city. En-route, why not visit the Old Midleton Distillery and learn how Irish whiskey is made or kiss the world famous Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle and acquire the gift of eloquence? Continue on into the spectacular west Cork region where many fishing towns and villages dot the southwest coastline. Overnight in either west Cork or Kerry region.
DAY 5: Ring of Kerry (235km)
Today tour one of Ireland’s loveliest districts, the Ring of Kerry. Poets, painters, writers and musicians have all tried to convey the beauty of this area. Mountains, valleys and lakes blend into a palette of scenic splendour. A delightful day includes a drive along the broad, dramatic coastline of the Iveragh Peninsula and through the charming villages and towns of Killorglin, Cahirciveen, Waterville and Irishspeaking Sneem. Why not visit Muckross House, a magnificent
Victorian mansion and one of Ireland’s leading stately homes? The gardens at Muckross House are renowned world-wide for their beauty; in particular they are noted for their fine collections of azaleas and rhododendrons.
Overnight in either west Cork or Kerry region.
DAY 6: Limerick/Tipperary Region (140km)
Today travel towards the Limerick/Tipperary area; perhaps visiting Tralee and the Dingle Peninsula en-route. In Tralee why not visit the Kerry Museum, which traces the history of Kerry from 5,000BC to the present day? Continue on to Limerick and the Shannon Region. In Limerick why not visit King John’s Castle or the Hunt Museum or continue to the nearby village of Bunratty and visit Bunratty Castle & Folk Park where you can see Irish village life around the 1900’s created in the Folk Park.

Overnight in Limerick/Tipperary area

DAY 7: Kildare/Meath Area (165km)
Returning to the Dublin region today, why not visit Birr Castle Demesne where you can visit the gardens or see one of the world’s largest telescopes? Time permitting, why not visit Dublin again for some last minute shopping or sightseeing. Overnight in Kildare/Meath area
DAY 8: Depart from Dublin Airport (85km)

Tempting Turkey

2010-03-18T02:31:00.000-07:00

Turkey is a land of glorious beaches, colourful history, hospitable people and fascinating cultural contrasts that reflect its unique situation. Bordered by six countries and four different seas, it has one foot firmly in Europe and the other in the Middle East. The country has a magnificent past with a rich heritage, from thirteen successive civilizations, spanning 10,000 years. Istanbul, former capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, juxtaposes history and oriental splendour with contemporary style. Domes and minarets form a sparkling skyline alongside smart hotels, glamorous nightspots and trendy galleries. Turkey’s 8,000 km of sandy coastline is dotted with ruins from ancient civilizations. Ephesus is the best-preserved classical city on the Mediterranean. The mountainous interior offers hiking, skiing and surreal volcanic landscapes.Come and allow us to help you discover tempting Turkey.

Simply Turkey is a suggested holiday itinerary to Turkey. You can combine this vacation with a holiday to Egypt and/or Greece. Mercury Travels offers customized holidays Turkey and other heritage destinations. Come and experience the cradle of civilization the way you want to. Be sure to experience a holiday like never before.

SIMPLY TURKEY
ISTANBUL/CAPPADOCIA (4 nights/5 days)
Day 1 – Arrive Istanbul
Welcome to Istanbul, the capital of Turkey. On arrival, you are met and transferred to your hotel. Check in and relax for a while. Later in the evening, you are escorted for an evening cruise along the spectacular Bosphorus, the winding strait separating Europe & Asia. The Bosphorus coastline is a delightful mix of the past and the present, with the grand splendour of the marble palaces and fortresses along with the quaint beauty of the ancient wooden mansions and small fishing villages. Overnight in Istanbul.
Day 2 – Istanbul/Kayseri/Cappadocia
The day is earmarked for a city tour that covers the must-see sights. Visit the Suleymaniye Mosque built in the 16th century by Sinan, the famous Ottoman architect of all times. Then onward to the Byzantine Hippodrome which houses the Obelisk brought from Egypt by Theodosius and the Serpent Column taken from Delphi by Constantine. Visit the Blue Mosque with its six minarets and 109 feet high dome. The last stop is the Grand Covered Bazaar, dating back to 15th century, which houses over 4,000 shops under one roof. In the early evening, you are transferred to the airport for your flight to Kayseri. On arrival, you are met and escorted to the cave city of Cappadocia. Enjoy dinner at your hotel. Overnight in Cappadocia.
Day 3 – Cappadocia
This morning is set aside for your visit to the Dervent Valley, Pasabagi Fairy Chimneys and Avanos Village. For millions of years, the mighty volcanoes of the Central Anatolian Plateau erupted and spewed their contents creating interesting rock formations, known as ‘fairy chimneys’, formed as the result of the erosion due to the flood waters and winds. Enjoy lunch at a typical local restaurant before visiting the Pigeon Valley, the natural citadel of Uchisar followed by the Goreme Open Air Museum with its pink, rose and white tapering stone columns. Visit some caves on the cliffs to see Byzantine frescoes decorating early Christian churches. Enjoy dinner at your hotel. Overnight in Cappadocia.
Day 4 – Cappadocia/Kayseri/Istanbul
Post breakfast continue your the tour by visiting Kaymakli or Derinkuyu Underground City; carved out of rock and completely self contained. More than 200 people lived on each of seven floors with the last one 250 feet underground. Then see the citadel of Ortahisar and the old Cavusin Village and its cave houses. Lunch followed by a walking tour of Red Valley and a visit to Urgup Wine House.
At around 18:00 hrs you are driven to Kayseri airport for your flight to Istanbul, where you are met and are transferred to your hotel for the night. Overnight in Istanbul.
Day 5 – Depart Istanbul
Following breakfast at hotel, you are transferred to the airport for your flight back home.

New Zealand: Adventure in the islands

2010-03-16T02:23:00.000-07:00

New Zealand’s spectacularly beautiful landscape includes vast mountain chains, steaming volcanoes, sweeping coastlines, deeply indented fiords, gorgeous beaches, lush rainforests and fascinating animal and plant life. It is a haven for those seeking rejuvenation and relaxation as well as a playground for thrill seekers and adventurers. Its temperate climate makes it an ideal year-round holiday destination.

This is a great country for self drive holidays. You do not need an International Driving Permit, as your Indian Driving Licence is recognized by the authorities. The vehicles have right-hand drive and you can choose from mid–size 1.5L cars to high-end 4-wheel-drive vehicles. The light traffic, well-maintained roads and the passing scenery makes driving a pleasure. So get ready for an exciting motoring holiday down the vast landscape of New Zealand.

New Zealand Self Drive is a suggested self drive itinerary. You can extend your holiday with a short holiday at Australia or Tahiti. Mercury Travels offers customized holidays to New Zealand and other captivating destinations. Come and see New Zealand the way you want you to!

New Zealand Self Drive
North & South Island (17 nights/18 days)
Day 1 – Arrive Auckland
Welcome to Auckland, the City of Sails. You are met and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free for you at leisure. Overnight in Auckland.
Day 2 – Auckland/Bay of Islands
Following breakfast, your chosen rental car will be delivered to you at your hotel. Drive north, for around 4 hours, over Auckland’s Harbour Bridge, along the Hibiscus Coast and through Whangarei – Northland’s only major city and port, to reach the fabulous Bay of Islands. Upon arrival, check in and relax. We recommend you drive down to the historic Treaty Grounds where the Waitangi Treaty was signed, giving birth to the country of New Zealand. Overnight in Bay of Islands.
Day 3 – Bay of Islands
The Kings Coach Company will pick you up from your hotel and take you on a full day trip to Cape Reinga and the 90 Mile Beach. Learn about the Bay and the history of the Maoris. Return to the hotel later this evening. Overnight in Bay of Islands.
Day 4 – Bay of Islands/Auckland
Make your way to the pier at around 0800 hours to board the Kings Ferry for a cruise into the waters and to the Hole in the Rock - the icon of the area. You can choose to get off and spend some time midway at the island of Russell with its quaint landscape and great restaurants. On your return, drive back to Auckland. Overnight in Auckland.
Day 5 – Auckland/Coromandel
Drive down the scenic south route to the Coromandel Peninsula. Stop over at the historic township of Thames, famous for its gold mining in the 1990s. Continue down the Pacific Coastal Highway to the township of Coromandel. A highly recommended optional here is the Driving Creek Train which takes you amidst the lush Kauri trees up the mountains for the most spectacular views of the Bay. Continue eastwards, over the semi tropical bush clad mountains to Mercury Bay. Check in and the rest of the evening is for you to relax and unwind. Overnight in Coromandel.
Day 6 – Coromandel
Post breakfast, indulge yourself either at the sandy Hahei Beach or visit the world famous Hot Water Beach with warm water bubbling out of the sand. The spectacular coastline of sandy beaches, coves and harbours provide boundless opportunities for fishing, boating and swimming. We recommend that you the take a gentle farmland walk to visit the beautiful and romantic Cathedral Cove for a walk or a swim. At an added cost, you can arrange for boat transfers into the cove. Do stop for lunch at the Waves Café, located next to the Hot Water Beach. Overnight in Coromandel.
Day 7 – Coromandel/Rotorua
Its time for a long drive south through Pauanui, to the Bay of Plenty and onwards to Rotorua. There is a scent of sulphur in the air, and the spouting geysers, bubbling mudpools and warm geothermal pools create a keleidoscope of colour. Check into the hotel and relax. Overnight in Rotorua.
Day 8 – Rotorua
Post breakfast, drive back up north for a full day excursion to Whakatane from where you head off to the White Island. This is the country’s only active marine volcano and is located just off the main coast. It is an unforgettable experience but totally weather permitting. Overnight in Rotorua.
Day 9 – Rotorua
Start your day with a drive to the Agrodome for an entertaining show on sheep farming. Follow this up with a visit to Rainbow Springs to see the local flora and the breeding of kiwis. Then head off to the thermal geysers and mudpools at Waiotapo to soak in the world famous Champagne pool, coloured springs, bubbling mud, steaming ground, expansive vistas, huge volcanic craters and sinter terrace formations. Visit the village of Mitai for an authentic introduction to Maori culture - their homes, cuisine, attire, crafts and arts like the poi dance and spine tingling haka finale. Overnight in Rotorua.
Day 10 – Rotorua
Today is free for you enjoy at leisure. In the evening, drive to Hells Gate for a well deserved mudpool soak and some authentic spa treatments. A very strong recommendation is the unparalleled experience of a skydrive that you can take en route. Overnight in Rotorua.
Day 11 – Rotorua/Queenstown
Drive to the airport and drop off your rental car before flying to Queenstown - the adventure capital of New Zealand. Pick up a rental car from the airport counter and drive to your hotel. The rest of the evening is at leisure. Overnight in Queenstown.
Day 12 – Queenstown
The day is at leisure for you to indulge in any of the endless activities - from bungy jumping to jetboating, from white water rafting to four wheel driving, from cruising on lake Wakatipu to riding a gondola to the summit of Bob’s Peak, or simply enjoy the excellent shopping and dining available. Overnight in Queenstown.
Day 13 – Queenstown
Spend the day at leisure. We strongly recommend you enjoy the world famous Doubtful Sound experience with a cruise down the crystal clear waters of Lake Manapouri to experience some of Fiordland’s densest rainforest and the colourful alpine moss gardens, while keeping a lookout for the bottlenose dolphins, fur seals and rare penguins. Overnight in Queenstown.
Day 14 – Queenstown/Mt Cook
Drive past Lake Wakatipu through the central Otago Region to the small town of Twizel. Continue north along the shores of Lake Pukaki to Mt Cook, or as known in Maori Aorangi - the cloud piercer. Mt Cook boasts of some spectacular scenery and you can spend a relaxed day here. Overnight in Mt Cook.
Day 15 – Mt Cook/Farm Stay
Drive to the Church of the Good Shepherd and Lake Tekapo before travelling across the Cantebury plains to arrive at a typical New Zealand farm in Ashburton or Geraldine. Spend a memorable day experiencing life on a working farm by getting involved with the daily chores. Overnight on the farm.
Day 16 – Farm Stay/Christchurch
Wake up to hot scones and some great home made breakfast after which its time to bid farewell to your hosts and drive your way up to the Garden City of Christchurch. Check in and unwind for the rest of the day. Overnight in Christchurch.
Day 17 – Christchurch
Take a ride in the restored heritage Christchurch Tram for a view of the attractions of the inner city, including the Anglican Cathedral, Arts Centre, Art Gallery, Botanic Gardens, the Avon River and Cathedral Junction. A must do is the Snow and Ice Experience and the Antarctic storm at the outstanding Antarctic Centre. A recommended optional is the Skyline Gondola ride and an early morning Up Up Away hot air balloon flight. Overnight in Christchurch.
Day 18 – Depart Christchurch
Its time to bid farewell to New Zealand today. Catch up on some last minute shopping before driving to the airport to return your car to the car rental company, in time for your onward flight.

Stunning South Africa

2010-03-06T01:04:00.000-08:00

South Africa is several countries rolled in one. Cape Town intrigues visitors with its glorious beaches, enchanting vineyards, striking Table Mountain and rugged landscapes. Sip wine at Spier and watch the sun set as you’ve never seen it before. Not to forget the mesmerizing wilderness of Kruger National Park, teeming with exotic game and the natural beauty of Knysna. This is an exhilarating land, that will reward your senses and your soul to an unimaginable degree. South Africa with its diverse experiences, promises a wholesome holiday experience.

The South Africa itinerary is a suggested holiday itinerary. You can extend your stay with the suggested extension holidays at Sun City Resort or at Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls. Mercury Travels offers customized holidays to South Africa and other captivating destinations. Come and see Africa the way you want you to.

SOUTH AFRICA
Johannesburg/Cape Town/Spier/Cape Town/Oudtshoorn/Knysna/Kruger/Johannesburg (11 nights/12 days)
Day 1 – Arrive Johannesburg/Cape Town
Arrive into Johannesburg and take a connecting flight to Cape Town. On arrival, you are met and transferred to your hotel. Overnight in Cape Town.
Day 2 – Cape Town
Wake up to a leisurely breakfast. Set off on a half day Mother City Tour that includes visits to the Houses of Parliament, the Castle, the South African Museum and other historical sights. The cable car ride takes you to the Table Mountain for a breathtaking view of the city. The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront is the last stop before you make your own way to the hotel. Overnight in Cape Town.
Day 3 – Cape Town
Set off on a full day Peninsula Tour that introduces you to spectacular Cape Peninsula, also called the Fairest Cape. Take a leisurely walk in the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Travel past Sea Point and Camps Bay, past the famous beaches of Clifton and Llandudno, towards Hout Bay. Drive along the Atlantic Seaboard. Pass through Noordhoek and Scarborough. Visit the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve and Seal Island. Drive along the Indian Ocean coastline, where you can visit the beautiful Boulders Beach, and perhaps sit among the famous colony of Jackass Penguins. Thereafter, enjoy a short stop at the naval port of Simon’s Town before returning to your hotel. Overnight in Cape Town.
Day 4 – Cape Town/Spier
This morning, you head out into the wine growing area of Spier. This is a great place to enjoy nature and unwind. Check into your resort and spend the rest of the day soaking in the ambience. Overnight in Spier.
Day 5 – Spier
After a lazy breakfast, you can indulge in any of the variety of leisure options including visiting the Wine Centre, the open-air theatre, the swimming pools, the spa, craft exhibitions, wildlife encounters or even wine tasting on horseback! Overnight in Spier.
Day 6 – Spier/Oudtshoorn
Set out from Spier and drive down to the Mossel Bay via the Robinson Pass to Oudtshoorn. Oudtshoorn is also known as the Feather Capital of the World, thanks to its huge ostrich industry. Overnight in Oudtshoorn.
Day 7 – Oudtshoorn/Knysna
Visit the Crocodile and Cheetah Park and take pictures of yourself with the cheetah. Check out the Cango Caves, regarded one of South Africa’s most spectacular natural wonders, to marvel at the icy formations underground and then head off to the ostrich farm. You then proceed onward to Knysna. Check into your hotel and spend the rest of evening at leisure. Overnight in Knysna.
Day 8 – Knysna
Take a cruise on the Knysna Lagoon. Guarding the lagoon are the Heads, imposing sandstone cliffs that provide powerful protection against the Indian Ocean. Knysna’s forests, marshes and pristine beaches are home to a variety of rare animals and birds. Proceed to the Tsitsikamma National Park and spend the rest of the day discovering the joys of the town’s many art galleries, craft shops and coffee bars. Overnight in Knysna.
Day 9 – Knysna/Kruger
Catch your flight from George Airport to Kruger. The fabulous National Park of Kruger is home to an impressive number of species: 336 trees, 49 fish, 34 amphibians, 114 reptiles, 507 birds and 147 mammals. Upon arrival, you are met and are driven into the interiors of Kruger, to your private game reserve lodge. Post lunch, its time to experience the game drive you have been waiting for. Overnight in Kruger.
Day 10 – Kruger
Wake up at dawn and leave for a game drive into the jungle, prior to sunrise. Return to your lodge for some sumptuous breakfast. Enjoy two more game drives during the day. Overnight in Kruger.
Day 11 – Kruger/Johannesburg
Catch a flight to Johannesburg. Upon arrival you are met and escorted to your hotel. Overnight in Johannesburg.
Day 12 – Depart Johannesburg
Your holiday comes to an end today. You are escorted to the Johannesburg Airport for your flight back home or you could opt to extend your stay with additional holiday options.

SOUTH AFRICA EXTENSIONS
Sun City Break (2 nights/3 days)
Day 1 – Arrive Sun City
This morning, on arrival into Johannesburg, you met and transferred by road to the fabulous Sun City complex. The drive to the Sun City complex, which borders the Pilanesberg National Park, takes about two hours. On arrival into Sun City, check into your hotel and relax for the rest of the day. Loads of evening entertainment awaits you here. Overnight in Sun City.
Day 2 – Sun City
Sun City offers myriad entertainment and relaxation opportunities, as well
as enough attractions and activities to keep you busy. From slots to safaris; theatre extravaganza to a games arcade for children; horseriding to golf; The Valley of Waves to The Lost City... the resort facilities are endless. The Palace of the Lost City Casino has over 850 slot machines and 38 gaming tables with a huge array of gaming choices. Check out the Gary Player Country Club and the Lost City Golf Course - both international-standard 18-hole golf courses. The Lost City Golf courses is noted for the crocodiles in the water feature of the 13th hole. Overnight in Sun City.
Day 3 – Depart Sun City
Post breakfast, its time to depart for Johannesburg to catch your flight
back home.

ZIMBABWE’S VICTORIA FALLS (2 nights/3 days)
Day 1 – Arrive Victoria Falls
Welcome to Zimbabwe, the land of the fabulous Victoria Falls. Your flight from Johannesburg arrives this morning into Victoria Falls. Upon arrival you are met and transferred to your hotel. Check in and relax. Later in the evening, enjoy a stunning sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. Overnight at Victoria Falls.
Day 2 – Victoria Falls
This morning you set out to see the Falls up close. The Victoria Falls is one of the most spectacular natural wonders of the world. At 1,708 meters wide, it is the largest curtain of water in the world. It drops between 90 meters to 107 meters into the Zambezi Gorge. The local people call it Mosi-oa-Tunya, which means 'the smoke that thunders'. The sheer marvel of the towering column of spray, the thunder of the falling water, the terrifying abyss and the tranquil lagoons upstream in which hippos and deadly crocodiles lurk, leaves you speechless and wanting for more. Return to the hotel later in the afternoon. The evening is free for rest and leisure. Overnight at Victoria Falls.
Day 3 – Depart Victoria Falls
Wake up to breakfast this morning and its time for you to be escorted to the airport to catch your flight back to Johannesburg.

Tantalizing Tahiti

2010-02-24T02:29:00.000-08:00

Tahiti is a land of timeless beauty and ancient culture. Intoxicating scents, azure lagoons, palm-shaded beaches, Polynesian beauties... Tahiti and her islands are indeed a place beyond the ordinary. Moorea charms with her emerald mountains and sandy shores. Bora Bora captivates with her gentle lagoons of an unimaginable palette of blues and turquoises. Huahine, Raiatea and Taha’a offer lush vanilla plantations and ancient maraes. Rangiroa and the Tuamotus beckon divers with their untouched coral reefs and schools of marine life. The remote Marquesas enchant adventurers with its rugged cliffs and soaring mountain peaks. Tahiti is truly tantalizing - a world apart from all other tropical island vacations!

Tempting Tahiti is a suggested itinerary for a short holiday. This can be an extension to your holiday in Australia or New Zealand. Mercury Travels offers customized holidays to Tahiti and other tantalizing destinations. Come and see Tahiti the way you want you to.

TEMPTING TAHITI
Papeete/Moorea (4 nights/5 days)
Day 1 – Arrive Papeete
Maeva! Upon arrival at Papeete airport, you are met and transferred to the hotel in Papeete. Overnight in Papeete.
Day 2 – Papeete/Moorea
Wake up to a lazy breakfast followed by a city tour of Papeete by coach. Later in the day, take a half hour catamaran ride to Moorea. On arrival, you are transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax at the beach or the pool. You could also spend time snorkelling and admiring the fabulous undersea life this reef has to offer you! Overnight in Moorea.
Day 3 – Moorea
You are taken by coach on a Circle Island Tour to see the gorgeous sights of Moorea including Cook’s Bay, Opunohu Bay and the Belvédère lookout. Spend the rest of the day on the white sands or in the pool. Overnight in Moorea.
Day 4 – Moorea
You have the whole day to pamper yourself with the various amenities available at your resort. Swim, snorkel or simply relax by the sea and soak in the ambience! Overnight in Moorea.
Day 5 – Moorea/Depart Papeete
After breakfast, you will be escorted back to the dock for a catamaran ride to Papeete, where you are transferred to the airport for your onward flight back home.

Wild wonders

2010-02-20T02:18:00.000-08:00

Jambo! Welcome to the wild! Kenya and Tanzania are where you see nature unfold right before your eyes. A mecca for wildlife enthusiasts, when you visit there you can get up close and personal with the king of the jungle and feel his mane brush past your hand. From game parks to wildlife sanctuaries, from the depths of a coral reef to the top of snow capped mountains, from one of the world’s most endangered owls to a herd of wildebeest more than a million strong, the wilderness here is a wonder to behold...
Breathtaking Kenya & Tanzania is a suggested itinerary for a holiday in exotic Africa. Mercury Travels offers customized holidays to Kenya, Tanzania and other fabulously exciting destinations. Come and see Africa the way you want you to.

BREATHTAKING KENYA & TANZANIA
Nairobi/ Lake Nakuru National Park/ Masai Mara Game Reserve/Speke Bay/
Serengeti National Park/Ngorongoro Crater/Lake Manyara National Park/Nairobi
(10 nights/11 days)
Day 1 – Arrive Nairobi
Welcome to Nairobi, a thriving young city spawned during the construction of the railroad to the Indian Ocean. You are met and transferred to your hotel. In the evening, enjoy an informative presentation about East Africa’s National Parks, reserves and wildlife. Enjoy dinner at the Anghan Restaurant. Overnight in Nairobi.
Day 2 – Nairobi/Lake Nakuru National Park
Depart Nairobi in the morning and drive to the dramatic Rift Valley, making a brief stop at the Rift Valley View Point and proceed to the pink Lake Nakuru for lunch at the lodge. Enjoy an afternoon game drive inside the beautiful Park to view thousands of pink flamingos and numerous wild game, including the rhinos. Dinner and overnight at Lake Nakuru Lodge.
Day 3 – Lake Nakuru/Masai Mara Game Reserve
After breakfast at the lodge, depart the Lake Nakuru National Park with
en route game viewing. Cross the Loita Plains as you head for Kenya’s most scenic Masai Mara and arrive in time for lunch at your lodge. An afternoon of game drives inside the Park, followed by dinner and overnight at Mara Serena Lodge or a similar hotel.
Day 4 – Masai Mara Game Reserve
Enjoy breakfast at the lodge. Leave with picnic lunches for a full day of game viewing inside the Park. Extend your drive to the hippo point. Between meals you can choose to take an optional visit to the Masai villages for an insight into the local culture. Dinner and overnight at Mara Serena Lodge or a similar place.
Day 5 – Masai Mara Game Reserve/Speke Bay
Drive down to the Kenyan Tanzanian border town of Isebania for lunch and then onward to the Speke Bay Lodge on Lake Victoria. Spend the afternoon at leisure. Dinner and overnight at Speke Bay Lodge.
Day 6 – Speke Bay/Serengeti National Park
After breakfast, drive to Serengeti National Park. Have a relaxed lunch at the exclusive Serengeti Serena Lodge. Enjoy an afternoon of game drive. Dinner and overnight at Serengeti Serena Lodge or somewhere similar.
Day 7 – Serengeti National Park
The Masai translation of Serengeti is ‘endless plains’. The Park spreads over 23,000 square miles and is home to thousands of animals. One of the highlights is the annual migration of the wildebeest and the zebra. The migration varies from month to month but the herds are usually in southern Serengeti during December to May. The animals migrate in pursuit of food and water and to bear their young. Early morning and afternoon game drives give you an opportunity to watch the life and death drama unfold before you, as the ever-searching predators follow the masses of migrating animals. Overnight at the Serengeti Serena Lodge or a similar hotel.
Day 8 – Serengeti National Park/Ngorongoro Crater
Drive across the Serengeti plains, viewing game en route and arrive at Olduvai Gorge, the famous archaeological site where two million year old humanoid fossils of Australopithecus, Homo Habilis and Homo Erectus have been discovered. This steep-sided gorge is about 50 km long and as deep as 90 meters in some places. You will have time to walk through the little museum.
Continue your drive and reach the Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge, set high on the rim of Ngorongoro Crater - a dormant and collapsed volcano. The first glimpse of the Ngorongoro Crater is an unforgettable experience. Over 20 kms wide and 600 mts deep, the Ngorongoro Crater is the largest unbroken, un-flooded caldera in the world. The volcano and surrounding landscape are part of a vast conservation area inhabited by the Masai tribe, as well as an extraordinary variety of big game and bird life. At Ngorongoro Serena Lodge, visitors co-exist in perfect harmony with the natural environment and the wildlife that inhabits it. After lunch at the lodge, take a gentle nature walk with a lodge naturalist. Overnight at the Ngorongoro Serena Lodge or somewhere like it.
Day 9 – Ngorongoro Crater
After an early breakfast, descend into the crater in a 4x4 vehicle for a full day of game viewing. Over 25,000 wild animals occupy the crater floor. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the crater floor before driving back, later in the afternoon, to your lodge perched on the rim. Overnight at the Ngorongoro Serena Lodge or similar lodges.
Day 10 – Ngorongoro Crater/Lake Manyara National Park
Drive down to Lake Manyara National Park, which is tucked into the base of the Rift Valley escarpment. After lunch, a game drive is planned in the Park. Overnight at the spectacularly located Lake Manyara Serena Lodge or a similar hotel.
Day 11 – Lake Manyara National Park/Nairobi
Set off after breakfast to Arusha for lunch. Drive via Namanga border to clear customs and immigration, then onward into Jomo Kenyatta airport for your international departure flight.

In the abode of Ravana

2010-02-15T02:12:00.000-08:00

The beauty of the island nation of Sri Lanka has to be seen to be believed. Once considered to be the abode of Ravana - often seen as the good and pious but misguided man commonly villified by mythology - the small land mass just off the southernmost tip of India is well worth a visit. Food, nature, legend, crafts, gems, textiles and, of course, the people - all go into making Sri Lanka a true paradise of sight, sound and experience.

Mercury Travels has packages that will help you explore the beautiful island.

COLOMBO, KANDY, NUWARAELIYA, BENTOTA & COLOMBO.
05 Nights / 06 Days
Day 01 - Airport / Colombo
On arrival at the Bandaranaike International Airport, you will get your first taste of warm Sri Lankan hospitality. The representative from Nkar Travels & Tours (Pvt) Limited will welcome you and help you transfer to Colombo. Overnight in Colombo.
Day 02 – Colombo / Kandy
After breakfast, transfer to Kandy. En route visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. This centre is set up especially for abandoned or injured baby elephants. They are reared here and trained to become working animals. Feeding and bathing in the river provide the best opportunities to see the animals close up.
Check into the hotel in Kandy. In the evening, join the city tour of Kandy. Visit the Temple of the Holy Tooth, the relic of Lord Buddha, the Gem Museum and a traditional batik-making factory. A stroll in the market place would also be interesting. Late in the evening experience a colourful cultural show where you can really get a taste of Sri Lankan culture. Overnight in Kandy.
Day 03 – Kandy/ Nuwara Eliya
After breakfast, visit the Royal Botanical Garden in Kandy. Thereafter continue your journey to Nuwara Eliya. Stop at the Ramboda waterfall; en route you can stop and enjoy a cup of Ceylon tea while enjoying the spectacular scenery. Spend the evening relaxing in the cool climate. Nuwara Eliya is known as the 'Little England' of Sri Lanka. It is set against beautiful backdrop of mountains, valleys, waterfalls and tea plantations. It is supposed to be one of the coldest places on the island, but is really just like being in England on a spring day; be warned the temperature does drop at night. All around Nuwara Eliya you will see evidence of the former British presence. Houses are like country cottages or Queen Ann-style mansions. Overnight in Nuwara Eliya.
Day 04 – Nuwara Eliya / Bentota
After breakfast proceed to Wadduwa via Kitulgala. Witness the world famous St. Clair’s and Devon waterfalls. Spend the evening at leisure on the beach. Overnight in Bentota.
Day 05 – Bentota / Colombo
After breakfast proceed to Colombo. In the evening, go on a site seeing and shopping trip around the busy. You’ll see the famous Bandaranaike International Memorial Hall, the Valukarama temple and the municipal council. among other sights. You can enjoy fair bargains by shopping at some of the reputed shopping malls, but pay a visit to the Pettah Bazaar.
Overnight in Colombo.
Day 06 – Colombo / Airport
After breakfast proceed to the airport for your flight back.

A Scandinavian sojourn

2010-02-13T02:47:00.000-08:00

Scandinavia, located in the northern part of Europe, consists of Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Iceland. The land is blessed with breathtaking natural surroundings.

Denmark is a small country made up of the Jutland Peninsula and over 400 islands. From the capital city of Copenhagen with its historical royal castles to the beautiful streets of Odense, birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen, Denmark truly is a land of fantasy.

Norway is a beautiful country that boasts dynamic natural scenery. From the complex fjords carved from the earth by glaciers, the Aurora in the Arctic Circle, and the Midnight Sun in Nordkapp, Europe's northernmost point, Norway with its wide range of natural panoramas is truly the land of Mother Nature.

Sweden, with over 227,000 lakes with half the country covered in green woods, is aptly called the land of forests and lakes. Stockholm, the most beautiful city in the world; the world-famous Glass Kingdom located in the Smaland region in the south; and the world's most unusual hotel made entirely of ice located in north; makes Sweden a must-visit destination.

Finland’s vast forests, a unique archipelago and thousands of lakes present a striking mixture of wooded hills and waters. Finland beckons visitor to experience its mystical northern natural beauty and peacefulness.

Iceland is a potpourri of the marvels of Mother Nature such as icecaps, glaciers, spouting geysers, steaming solfataras, volcanoes, raging rivers, magnificent waterfalls, cavorting whales and a multitude of birds. Summers are surprisingly warm and winters not as cold as you might expect.

Scandinavia is simply superb, stunning and wholly inviting!

FOUR SCANDINAVIAN COUNTRIES
Helsinki/Stockholm/Oslo/Geilo/Bergen/Copenhagen
(7 nights/8 days)
Day 1 - Arrive Helsinki
Arrival in Helsinki. You are met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to familiarize yourself with this splendid city. Overnight stay in Helsinki.
Day 2 - Helsinki /Silja Line to Stockholm
In the morning is earmarked for a sightseeing tour of Helsinki during which you will see the historical centre and the diplomatic quarters, the Presidential Palace, City Hall, the Parliament Buildings, Finlandia Hall and the Opera House. Stop at Senate Square, the Sibelius Monument and the Temppeliaukio Church in the rocks before ending the tour at the city centre.
In the early afternoon it is time to board the Silja Line cruise ship for the crossing to Stockholm. Enjoy a Scandinavian buffet dinner on the ship. After dinner you can dance the night away in the nightclub, linger in the various shops, or enjoy the scenery. Accommodation on board the liner in comfortable 2-berth cabins.
Day 3 - Stockholm
Enjoy a sumptuous Scandinavian breakfast buffet before arriving in Stockholm, but make sure to be out on deck as the ship sails into the beautiful Stockholm harbour. With its 24,000 islands, the Stockholm archipelago is quite unique. Around 9.00 a.m. you dock in Stockholm, the Swedish capital. Disembark and go to your hotel to check in. Later go for a sightseeing tour. Stockholm is often called the “Beauty on Water” being built on 14 islands. See the City Hall (outside), constructed in the National Romantic style where each year on December 10th the Nobel price banquette takes place. See the Old Town, which is in direct contrast with today’s modern city centre.
The rest of the afternoon is free to wander around on your own. You have time to visit to the Vasa ship museum to see the warship Vasa – the only remaining, intact 17th century ship in the world.
Overnight stay in Stockholm.
Day 4 - Stockholm – Oslo
After breakfast go to the airport and fly from Stockholm to Oslo. Overnight stay in Oslo.
Day 5 - Oslo – Geilo
After breakfast go on the famous 'Norway in a Nutshell' trip. This unique tour takes you through some of the most magnificent scenery in and along the Norwegian Fjords!
Your first stop will be in Myrdal where you change to the special Flåm line, a masterpiece of engineering set in wild and wonderful countryside of high mountains and thundering waterfalls.
Dinner and overnight stay in Geilo.
Day 6 - Geilo – Bergen
After breakfast continue on the “Norway in a nutshell”
tour. In Flåm you board a boat that will take you on an about 2 hour’s tour on the Aurland fjord, an arm of the Sognefjord. This is one of the narrowest fjord inlets in Western Norway, surrounded by mountains up to 1800 m. Small farms lie dotted along the mountainsides. In Gudvangen you will be picked up by a bus that will take you to Voss where you change to a train that will take you to Bergen. On the way you will drive up the steep and spectacular Stalheimskleivane hairpin bends, from where you have a fantastic view of the Stalheim waterfall. Arrive in Bergen in the early afternoon.
Bergen is Norway's second largest city.
In the afternoon you are free to take an 8-minute ride to the top of Mount Fløyen (altitude 320 m) with a magnificent view over Bergen and the surrounding countryside. Overnight stay in Bergen.
Day 7 - Bergen - Copenhagen
Departure by air from Bergen to Copenhagen.
Go to your hotel and check in.
Copenhagen’s one-thousand-year history has been written by ambitious kings, inspiring artists and celebrated designers as is evident in its historical buildings, ancient streets, dozens of world-class museums and galleries.
Later go on a guided sightseeing tour of Copenhagen. Some of the fascinating sites include the new harbour of Nyhavn, the Royal Palace Amalienborg, the Gefion fountain and the wistful Little Mermaid. The rest of the afternoon is free to browse through the many fine shops throughout the city. Overnight stay in Copenhagen.
Day 8 - Copenhagen - return flight
Today it is time to say goodbye to Scandinavia. But there are options for you to see more of this delightful part of the world...

Rovaniemi in Finland
5 days / 4 nights
Rovaniemi is located at the confluence of Lapland’s mighty rivers Kemijoki and Ounasjoki.
It has always been a centre and a gateway to Finnish Lapland.
Rovaniemi has maintained contact with the wild and undisturbed surrounding countryside
and at the same time managed to develop a strong urban development.
Day 1 - Helsinki
Arrive in Helsinki and go to the hotel.
The afternoon at leisure to explore Helsinki on own. You should visit the famous market Square and get a feeling of the meeting point between the east and the west.
Overnight stay at a pleasant hotel in Helsinki.
Day 2 - Rovaniemi
In the morning go to the airport. Departure by air to Rovaniemi in Finnish Lapland. At the airport in Rovaniemi there will be a taxi to meet and take you to the hotel. In the afternoon visit Arktikum, a fascinating museum and science centre where you can learn about the people north of the Arctic Circle.
The rest of the afternoon is free to try various winter activities, such as skiing, skating and more. See below list of suggestions for activities.
Dinner and overnight stay at a nice hotel in Rovaniemi.
Day 3 - Rovaniemi
All day is at your leisure to discover Rovaniemi on your own.
Dinner and overnight stay at a nice hotel. In Rovaniemi.
Day 4 - Rovaniemi
All day is at your leisure to discover Rovaniemi on your own.
See below list of suggestions for activities.
Dinner and overnight stay in Rovaniemi.
Day 5 - Rovaniemi - Helsinki
After an early breakfast transfer to the airport and fly back to Helsinki.
Return in Helsinki with the possibility of one or more nights at a hotel and various sightseeing options.

The grandeur of Greece

2010-02-09T02:25:00.000-08:00

Greece is a country of beautiful contradictions, a constant journey in time, from the present to the past and back again. Experience the confluence of cultures, colours and civilizations of this country with its rich historical past. See the landscape that has given the world thousands of postcard images but remains incredibly vibrant and impossible to capture. Explore the breathtaking scenery as you walk through the olive groves, through ancient sites, across beaches and rocky mountains. Come you explore your senses in Greece.

The Classic Favourite – Greece is a suggested holiday itinerary to this lovely land. You can combine this vacation with a holiday to Egypt and/or Turkey. Mercury Travels offers customized holidays to Greece and other heritage destinations. Come and experience the cradle of . Experience a holiday like never before.

THE CLASSIC FAVOURITE – GREECE
(7 nights/8 days)
Day 1 - Athens
Welcome to Athens, the capital of Greece. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free. Overnight in Athens.
Day 2 - Athens
The morning is set aside for a sightseeing tour of Athens which includes a visit to the Acropolis and its museum. Seeing the rock of Acropolis and the ruins of the Parthenon, rising majestically above it, fills you with a sense of wonder. Explore these majestic ruins and spend the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight in Athens.
Day 3 - Athens/Aegina/Poros/Hydra
Post breakfast this morning, you are transferred to the Trocadero harbour to embark your ship for a full day cruise to the Saronic Gulf Islands of Aegina, Poros and Hydra. Visit the Aegina island with its sandy coves sheltered by oaks, cypresses and wild olive trees. Cruise along the streets of the pretty island of Poros. View the fascinating architecture of the historical mansions in Hydra. Lunch is included. Later this evening, it is time to return to the hotel. Overnight in Athens.
Day 4 - Athens/Olympia
This morning, you depart on your four day classical tour. Take a brief halt at the Corinth Canal which connects the Aegean with the Ionian Sea. Visit Nauplion, a beautiful town by the seaside, which houses the Theatre of Epidaurus, world famous for its acoustics. Then drive to Ancient Mycenae and visit the Archaelogical Site and Tomb of Agamemnon. Drive to Olympia through central Peloponnese. Overnight in Olympia
Day 5 – Olympia/Delphi
Visit the archaeological site of Olympian Zeus, the Ancient Stadium and the Archaeological Museum, before driving onwards to Delphi. Overnight in Delphi.
Day 6 – Delphi/Kalambaka
Explore the Archaeological Museum of Delphi. Drive onward to Kalambaka, a small town built of the majestic grey rocks and crowned by the Meteora Monasteries. Overnight in Kalambaka.
Day 7 – Kalambaka/Meteora/Athens
In the morning visit the Meteora Monasteries which stand suspended between earth and sky, on top of granite rocks. The monasteries, built in the Byzantine era, contain priceless historical and religious treasures. Your classical tour ends with your return to Athens. Overnight in Athens.
Day 8 – Depart Athens
It is time to bid farewell to Greece. You are transferred to the airport to catch your flight home.

Islands in the sun!

2010-02-08T01:53:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the closest you can get to paradise! Mauritius, Maldives and Seychelles are the three jewels of the Indian Ocean. Vacation here like you have never before. Tread the softest and whitest sand that you may have only dreamt of. Each of these islands has its own distinct personality. . Stay at any of the fabulous resorts these islands offer. Experience the stunning sunsets. Revel in the tranquility and the air of romance. Feel the magic all around you.

Mercury Travels offers customized holidays to the islands of the Maldives, Mauritius and Seychelles in the Indian Ocean and other fabulous destinations. Come, experience the ocean the way you want to.

MALDIVES (3 nights/4 days)
Day 1 - Arrive Male
Arrive into Male, the Capital of the Paradise Country of Maldives. On arrival, you are met transferred to your resort, by boat/sea plane (depending on the resort). Check in and the rest of the day is free for you to relax and soak in the fresh air and the unbelievably azure blue waters that so unbelievable!!!!
Overnight at the resort in Maldives.
Day 2 – On the Island
Wake up to a lazy breakfast and loll around for the rest of the day by the beach or at the pool. Spend time snorkelling or admiring the fabulous undersea life this reef has to offer you!! Maldives is the perfect place to unwind. In the evenings, the place comes alive with live bands, disco and other nightlife activities. Overnight at the resort in Maldives.
Day 3 – On the Island
It is your third day in this paradise…a day to relax and enjoy the beauty around you. If you are an avid diver there are some excellent Dive Sites available. If you are not, well you can still get a course in diving by professional PADI experts. Spend the rest of the day on the white sands or by the pool. Overnight at the resort in Maldives.
Day 4 – Depart Male
Post breakfast, it is time for you to be transferred to the Airport to board your flight back home.

MAURITIUS (6 nights/7 days)
Day 1 - Arrive Mauritius
Arrive into the beautiful island country of Mauritius. On arrival you are met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to unwind and take in the salubrious environs around you. Later in the evening, we recommend you make a trip to the Grand Baie area or the Waterfront area, which is dotted by haute cafés and abundant entertainment. Overnight in Mauritius.
Day 2 - Mauritius
This morning, you are taken on a full day tour to the Ile Aux Cerfs. You can indulge in water sports, para-sailing and the other water games. The tour terminates at the hotel, later in the evening. Overnight in Mauritius.
Day 3 - Mauritius
The day is free for you to check out the various optional tours that Mauritius offers. Try the Undersea Walk - a lifetime experience of walking on the sea bed!!! Try the Le Nesse, a semi submersible in which you can sit and watch the marine life, with the safety of the glass around you. Overnight in Mauritius.
Day 4 - Mauritius
A trip to Mauritius would be incomplete if you do not visit the Pamplemousses Garden which houses the giant water lilies. This is a full day trip and also takes you to Port Louis where you can spend some time shopping. Overnight in Mauritius.
Day 5 - Mauritius
You could try a cruise around the Island or just sit and relax by the sea or the pool and pamper yourself with the amenities your hotel has to offer you. Dinner is at the Hotel. Overnight in Mauritius.
Day 6 - Mauritius
Wake up to a relaxed breakfast this morning and enjoy the rest of the day either on the beach or in the pool. Overnight in Mauritius.
Day 7 – Depart Mauritius
Your holiday comes to an end today. It is time to pack and check out of your hotel this morning. You are escorted to the Airport to catch your flight back home.

SEYCHELLES (3 nights/4 days)
Day 1: Arrive Mahe
Your holiday to the sun kissed island of Seychelles begins today. On arrival at Mahe, you are met and transferred to your resort. The rest of the day is free for you to explore this island on your own. Overnight at the Resort.
Day 2: Resort on the Island
Wake up to the sound of the waves lashing gently against the shores and the chirping of the birds…..this indeed is the closest you can get to paradise. Enjoy a delicious and relaxed breakfast at the resort. Spend the rest of the day pampering yourself to the various amenities available at your resort, swim, snorkel or just relax by the sea! Soak in the ambience!! Overnight at the resort.
Day 3: Resort on the Island
Seychelles has many virgin beaches around Mahe and this morning, following breakfast, you are taken on a full day Mahe Discovery Tour. The tour terminates in the evening and reaches you back at your resort. We recommend you opting for a quiet dinner at any of the restaurants your resort. Overnight at the resort.
Day 4: Depart Mahe
Wake up to a lazy breakfast this morning. Later in the day, you are escorted to the Airport to connect to your flight back home.

Alluring Australia

2010-02-05T02:41:00.000-08:00

(Though there may be a little strain between the two countries, India and Australia, both are still fabulous destinations for the traveller. Go on, take a vacation and find out for yourself!)

Australia is one of the most spectacular countries in the world with its fabled outback, distinctive outdoor culture, rich wildlife, vibrant beaches, iconic architecture and sophisticated cities. The salubrious atmosphere at Cairns, the pristine beaches of the Great Barrier Reef, the luxury of the Hayman Island resort, the theme parks at the Gold Coast, the great shopping at Melbourne, the unique blend of old and new at Sydney, not to forget the vibrant beaches and dolphins at Port Stephens, makes Australia one of the most alluring holiday destinations. No wonder you want to go there! And we at Mercury Travels promise you a pleasurable vacation unlike anything you’ve experienced before.

Escape To Australia is a suggested itinerary. You can extend your holiday with a short holiday inNew Zealand or Tahiti. Mercury Travels offers customized holidays to Australia and other captivating destinations. Come and see Australia the way you want you to.

ESCAPE TO AUSTRALIA
Cairns/Gold Coast/Hayman Island/Sydney/Melbourne (14 nights/15 days)

Day 1 – Arrive Cairns
Your magical holiday Down Under begins with your arrival into Cairns this morning via Sydney. You are met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Check in and relax. Overnight in Cairns.

Day 2 – Cairns
Your day begins at dawn with a ride on board the Hot Air Balloon for a fabulous aerial view of Cairns. Enjoy a champagne breakfast upon descent and proceed to The Great Barrier Reef, one of the natural wonders of the world. Enjoy a full day excursion with lunch on board the Big Cat Cruise Liner. The rest of the evening is at leisure. Overnight in Cairns.

Day 3 – Cairns/Hayman Island
Catch a flight to the beautiful Hamilton Island. Upon arrival, you are whisked away to a resort at the fabulous Hayman Island in Queensland’s tropical north. Overnight in Hayman Island.

Day 4 – Hayman Island
Wake up to a lazy breakfast and have the entire day to yourself to spend by the beach or just sit by the pool and relax. A truly rejuvenating and blissful feeling! Overnight in Hayman Island.

Day 5 – Hayman Island/Brisbane/Gold Coast
After breakfast, the speedboat will reach you to the airport at Hamilton Island for your flight to Brisbane. Upon arrival, you are met and transferred to the Gold Coast. Check into your hotel and the rest of the day is at leisure. In the evening, you are escorted to the Conrad Jupiters Hotel to witness the Extravaganza Show (shows on Monday to Saturday only). After the show, do make your way back to the hotel on your own. Overnight in Gold Coast.

Day 6 – Gold Coast
Gold Coast, with its excellent theme parks, is called the Disneyland of the South Pacific. Spend the entire day at Dreamworld trying out some of the tallest and fastest thrill rides in the world. After a brief rest at your hotel, you arrive at the pier for a relaxing two hour sunset cruise, accompanied with champagne. Experience the calm water and the scintillating sights before you make your own way back to the hotel. Overnight in Gold Coast.

Day 7 – Gold Coast
Experience the magic and excitement of the Warner Bros. Movie World. The fun and adventure of your favourite action movies is brought to life on the amazing rides here. After a brief rest at your hotel, you are escorted to the Glowworm Night Tour for a magical experience that includes a guided walk through the rainforest and the National Park, followed by supper. Overnight in Gold Coast.

Day 8 – Gold Coast/Brisbane/Melbourne
After an early breakfast you fly to Melbourne. On your arrival in the afternoon, you are met and transferred to your hotel with the rest of the day free. Overnight in Melbourne.

Day 9 – Melbourne/Great Ocean Road
This morning you drive down the scenic Great Ocean Road to the fabulous Seafarers Gateway. Check into the resort and spend the rest of the day soaking in the exclusive views and the private beach. Overnight along the Great Ocean Road.

Day 10 – Great Ocean Road/Melbourne
Wake up to a lazy and pampered breakfast, after which you are escorted to a private helicopter ride for a birds eye view of the Great Ocean Road. Head back to Melbourne, check in at the hotel and the rest of the day is free. Explore the city and its great shopping options, on your own. In the evening, you are treated to a special tramcar dinner following which you could spend time at the casino. Overnight in Melbourne.

Day 11 – Melbourne
A great city with loads to experience! Enjoy a full day trip covering Melbourne’s premier food and wine destination, Yarra Valley and the Dandenong Ranges that are perched high above the city amid the ancient ferns and trees. Upon returning back to the city, relax at the hotel. We recommend you take a water taxi to the fabulous waterfront and dine al fresco by the harbours edge. Overnight in Melbourne.

Day 12 – Melbourne/Sydney
Fly to Sydney in the morning. You are met and transferred to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure. In the evening you are escorted to the Victoria Wharf to experience the magic of the harbour by night and to enjoy an Indian dinner aboard the Deluxe Showboat Dinner Cruise. Overnight in Sydney.

Day 13 – Sydney/Port Stephens
After a leisurely breakfast, you are transferred to an exclusive resort at Port Stephens. Enjoy a dolphin cruise in the afternoon and have the rest of the evening free. Overnight in Port Stephens.

Day 14 – Port Stephens/Sydney
Post breakfast, you are transferred back to Sydney. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day exploring the city on your own. Overnight in Sydney.

Day 15 – Depart Sydney
Your Australian Escape ends today and you are escorted to the airport to board your flight back home.

Fabulous France

2010-02-03T04:13:00.000-08:00

France is a country of rich diversity and outstanding natural beauty. It presents a kaleidoscope of landscapes, sightseeing and culture - fortified hill towns, spellbinding historic cities, soaring cathedrals, medieval hamlets, famed museums and enthralling can-can shows. From romantic Paris to the rolling vineyards of Champagne; from the glamorous French Riviera and the beaches of Cannes and Nice to the Alpine slopes of Chamonix; the beautiful landscape of Alsace to the retail therapy of Lyon; France promises to allure and tantalize you.

Most visitors begin or end their holiday in France with a stay at Paris. The best way to explore Paris is to do so at your own pace with the one-day Hop On Hop Off pass. You could get off at the stop near Montparnasse Tower for an amazing view of the city from the tower. Dine at the stylish cafés along the Champs-Élysées. An evening boat cruise along the River Seine is your opportunity to take in Paris by night, where all the monuments are illuminated and the scene is nothing short of being magical.

Another must-do, when in Paris, is a trip to the village of Montmartre to visit the fascinating Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Spend an evening in Montmartre, enjoying a leisurely dinner while enjoying a fabulous view of the city of Paris below. Of course, being the fashion capital of the world you cannot but help spend time at the great shopping malls like the Printemps or the Galleries Lafayette or the many other haute couture shopping places in the city.

Dijon is a city with great ambience and character. The high-speed TGV train is best way to travel from Paris to Dijon. A splendid city to walk around and soak in the salubrious climes, Dijon is also famous for its mustard that you can buy at some of the shops stocking and selling them. If you are a museum buff, you can spend endless hours at the Musee des Beaux housed in the eastern wing of the Palais des Ducs.

Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage city, is conveniently located close to Dijon. The Lyon Card gives you free access to all bus, metro, tramway and funicular lines of Lyon and discounted admissions to many museums, shows, and some shopping discounts too. Visit the Tête d’Or Park, its zoo and many attractions, City Aventure and Fourvière Aventures acrobatic parks, Grand Lyon Aquarium, the large safari parks and zoos, and the Domaine de Lacroix Laval park are all highly appreciated play and discovery areas particularly if you have children with you. Shopping in Lyon is an easy pleasure, part of the city’s art of living. The city, illuminated with a thousand lights by night, is truly spectacular! The day does not end for those who are caught in the whirl of Lyon’s famed nightlife.

No visit to France is complete without a stay at Nice, the capital of the French Riviera. Stroll around the Promenade des Anglais and its narrow bylanes and cobble-stone pathways. Cannes, Monaco and Monte Carlo are at easy distance. Enjoy the good life at Cannes as you rub shoulders with the socialites. Spend time at Monaco, home to the Rainer family and the Grand Prix Formula One race circuit. Visit Monte Carlo famed for its exquisite casino and the beautiful gardens.

The French taste for the douceur de vivre, or 'sweetness of life', marks the sumptuous French cuisine. Breakfast on steaming coffee and freshly baked croissants and crepes at a buzzing Paris boulevard. Sip a classic Burgundy at a traditional village square. Feast on extravagant truffle-laced dishes in cosy Bordeaux. Feast on an array of cheeses, soufflés and delicious patisserie on offer across the country.

There are so many ways to experience France. You could enjoy a self-drive vacation, or use the excellent train connections, or choose a coach tour of the country. The best way to see France is to experience it like a local…visit its wonderful cities, stroll across the beautiful countryside, visit its medieval villages and linger for a while where it pleases you.

Mercury Travels customizes your holiday so that you don’t just see a country like a tourist, but experience it like a local. France is truly charming, fabulous and fascinating. Experience her on a holiday that is specially crafted by Mercury Travels just for you!

Adventures in icy India

2010-01-27T02:44:00.000-08:00

With the Ladakh season in full swing, some travelers are looking for a different way to experience the spectacular beauty of this mountain paradise - and none more unique and exciting than the Great Zanskar Rafting Expedition organized annually by Mercury Himalayan Explorations.

Starting from Srinagar and finishing in Leh (with a lot of road and river adventure in between), the MHE Zanskar Rafting Expedition 2008 takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscape on the planet, from the green hills of Kashmir, high up through the rocky terrain of the forbidden kingdom of Zanskar, rafting down three high altitude rivers of Stod, Zanskar and Indus, and landing up in the ancient Ladakhi capital of Leh.

The expedition kicks off the way all good trips should, with a splash of luxury in an overnight stay on a Srinagar houseboat, before taking to the road for three days and then packing the equipment in the rafts at Remala and heading off on the most exciting part of the trip. The next seven days are on the river, negotiating rapids up to grade IV and camping on small riverside campsites in the Zanskar gorge until finally reaching Nimmu the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar rivers before driving to Leh, the magnificent capital of Ladakh.

The expedition is completely self-contained with all camping equipment, food and kitchen gear being carried on separate rafts. The camp chefs are well-known for being able to rustle up a delicious feast even in the most remote locations to satisfy the demanding gourmet.

The rapids are quite spectacular too, but it’s nothing for beginners or non-swimmers to worry about. All equipment used is top of the line, and the expedition is lead by a world-class safety team.

The beauty of this expedition is that it is the one of only two ways to see the magnificent Zanskar Gorge, renowned as one of the most beautiful places on earth – the only other way is to go in winter and walk down the frozen river in temperatures as low as -40°C. Moreover, plans to build a road along the gorge mean that this is one of the last chances to see this spectacular remote area before it gets spoilt with traffic.

The Zanskar Rafting Expedition also represents a growing trend towards more adventurous holidays in this country. “Over the last 15 years we have been taking groups from the US, UK and Israel on the Zanskar expedition but these days we are seeing more and more Indians joining up for trips like this, where we really get off the beaten track. India is one of the best adventure destinations in the world and the domestic market is now starting to take advantage of what is possible here” says Nathan Steele of Mercury Himalayan Explorations.

The plan of action:

Day 1: Fly to Srinagar for an overnight in houseboat on Dal Lake
Days 2-4: Drive Srinagar to Remala (3365m)
Days 5-11: 7 days on the river, rafting down the Zanskar Gorge from Remala to Saspol and camping by the side of the river
Day 11: Drive from Saspol to Leh for overnight in hotel
Day 12: Day of relaxation, shopping and sightseeing in Leh.
Day 13: Depart

But you don’t have to travel all the way to the Himalayas to experience the thrill of the white water. Since 2005 Mercury Himalayan Explorations has been running white water rafting on the Kundalika River close to Kolad, at around 3 hours drive from Mumbai and just 2.5 hours from Pune.

The river is usually fairly quiet but the daily release of water from the Bhira and Mulshi dams creates rapids up to Grade III and rafting which most Mumbaikars and Pune walas would not imagine is right on their doorstep. As Savita Nair, a copywriter from Mumbai who went rafting on the Kundalika last weekend puts it “why spend every weekend doing the same thing going out in the city when we have this so close by?”

The Zanskar expedition and rafting on the Kundalika are just some of the adventures run by Mercury Himalayan Explorations which, established in 1982, today runs the widest range of adventure trips in the country.

Throughout its 26-year history the company has become best renowned for its adventure camps in the Himalayas and its famous Self Drive 4x4 Jeep Safaris which were awarded the National Tourism Award in 2004 and 2005. Other notable options include a ski and snowboard school in Gulmarg run by a Canadian ski professional and an incredibly wide range of Himalayan treks.

With a focus on adventure combined with high safety and service standards, Mercury Himalayan Explorations handles thousands of adventures each year for adventurous holiday-makers, school groups, corporate outings, international tourists and embassies.

Contact Mercury Himalayan Explorations at:
011-23340033 / 23362008
Email: mhe@himalayanadventure.com
Web: www.himalayanadventure.com

Join the Parade!

2010-01-22T02:48:00.000-08:00

The Chingay Parade Singapore, to be held on the evenings of 19 and 20 February 2010, is an annual street parade to celebrate Singapore’s multi-cultural uniqueness, and is a colourful extravaganza of exciting floats and performances. Chingay is part of Singapore’s unique way of celebrating the lunar new year.

Chingay Parade Singapore 2010 will take place at the F1 Pit Building at Marina Bay. Visitors can purchase tickets for seats at the 36,000-strong grandstand or simply stand along the parade route.

Chingay has enjoyed a long tradition, with its first parade dating back to 1973. Its name, 'Chingay', was coined from its phonetic Hokkien equivalent, which means 'the art of costume and masquerade'.

AF1 Pit Building at Marina Bay
• Be dazzled by Chingay 2010, showcasing Asia in wondrous ways beyond your wildest imagination.
• Majestic flying horses promise to make an impression with unusual fantasy characters in Chingay 2010’s opening!
• Traditional dragon and lion dancers seize the parade grounds by storm! Cover your ears as you marvel at Guang Xi’s ‘firecracker dragon’!
• Legendary well-loved tales (Butterfly Lover, Puteri Gunung Ledang and Indralogam) weaved into rich multi-ethnic performances will spin you into a spell of intrigue
• Samba Singapore! Rock to the Samba Parade in Asian style! Be thrilled by the exotic costumes and waves of colours along a continuous parade route lining the waterfront
• The Grandest Finale in Chingay History will debut in Chingay 2010, featuring performers and float from the new Resorts World at Sentosa!
• For the first time, Chingay Parade offers a dazzling array of events and activities to entertain audiences beyond the parade duration (See 'Any Other Useful Information for details)

Happy New Year...in Chinese!

2010-01-21T02:47:00.001-08:00

Chinatown in Singapore is a key focal point for Chinese New Year festivities in the few weeks leading up to Chinese New Year and a few weeks following that. Visitors can immerse in the entire Chinese cultural experience and experience the festive hustle and bustle simply by walking the streets of Chinatown. Chinatown is also where local Chinese congregate year after year to shop for the necessary new year items for the home and to soak in the festive atmosphere.

Chinatown Chinese New Year Celebrations 2010 Street Light-Up runs from 23 January to 7 March 2010 at Eu Tong Sen Street, New Bridge and South Bridge Roads, and Garden Bridge. In line with the Year of the Tiger in 2010, the Light-Up along the main streets of Chinatown will feature dazzling and colour decorations with Chinese New Year greetings and auspicious tiger theme. In line with this year's Chinatown CNY theme of Celebration of Spring, for the first time, a stretch of Eu Tong Sen Street and New Bridge Road from the junction of Upper Cross Street will be decorated with giant cherry blossom trees to create a festive spring festival atmosphere that will enhance the overall street light-up experience.

At the Chinatown Chinese New Year Celebrations 2010 Official Light-Up and Opening Ceremony on 23 January 2010 at Eu Tong Sen Street & New Bridge Road, expect a rousing street parade! There will also be a mass street performance at different performing locations around the main thoroughfare. For the launch event there will be the firing of firecrackers at the finale. Together with winners of the International Lion Dance Competition, there will be local and overseas performers that night to delight and entertain visitors. The Guest-of-Honour will be PM Lee Hsien Loong.

International Lion Dance Competition will be held on 21 & 22 January 2010 at the Central and will see the participation of 10 reputable and top troupes from 6 countries namely, Singapore, Taiwan, Malaysia, China, Indonesia and Thailand.

Over 500 festive stalls promise to enthral visitors with a dazzling array of festive goodies such as waxed duck, barbecued sweet meats, cookies, fresh flowers and traditional CNY decorations galore from 23 January to 13 February 2010 at Pagoda, Smith, Sago, Temple and Trengganu Streets, and People’s Park Complex. Also don’t miss out on the local and overseas cultural performances at the Kreta Ayer Square. This is a popular gathering point to observe the locals, and also where the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Trishaw Parks are situated.

On 28 February 2010, you can enjoy the highlights from the Chingay Street Parade as the floats and performers make an appearance at Chinatown. There will also be a strong programme line-up with overseas and local performances.

There will also be other Chinese New Year celebrations at Thian Hock Keng Temple. Celebrate Chinese New Year in this 170-year old historical temple. Revered Buddhist monks and Taoist priests, as well as lion and dragon dances, will herald in the Year of the Tiger with religious, traditional and cultural ceremonies over the festive period from 13 - 28 February. Join the local devotees in their prayers for good fortune and prosperity. And have a wonderful Year of the Tiger!

Naturally New Zealand

2010-01-18T01:25:00.000-08:00

New Zealand’s spectacularly beautiful landscape is varied and beautiful. It includes long white beaches, glacier-capped mountain chains, steaming volcanoes, sweeping coastlines, deeply indented fiords, rolling hills, lush rainforests and fascinating animal and plant life.

Explore the wonders of the North Island - from the boiling geysers and mud pools of Rotorua to the spectacular scenery of the Coromandel Peninsula, from the Maori culture in Hokianga to the beautiful ‘City of Sails’, Auckland. To explore North Island you could embark on a 9 nights / 10 days holiday covering Auckland, Bay of Islands, Hokianga and Rotorua.

Auckland, the gateway to North Island, is a fabulous city with great dining at the harbour front and fabulous shopping. Travel north from Auckland, along the Hibiscus Coast and through Whangarei, to reach the fantabulous Pahia in the Bay of Islands. Soak in the fresh air and the scenery around you. Visit Waitangi grounds the site of the historic birth of New Zealand. Embark on a day trip to the 90 Mile Beach and to Cape Reinga. Enjoy dolphin watching aboard a cruise. Drive off to Hokianga - a place steeped in Maori culture. A must-do experience is a tour of the Kauri forest and a visit to the ‘Tane Mahuta’, the oldest tree in the forest.

The geothermal city of Rotorua is another fabulous experience. Visit the geothermal mud pools at Te Puia. Also visit Rainbow Springs to see the elusive kiwi bird and loads of other authentic flora and fauna. Experience adventure sports like sky diving and whitewater rafting that the city offers. Rotorua is at the heart of the Maori culture and a visit to MITAI introduces you to Maori culture and a taste of a Maori ‘Hangi’ dinner.

Equally enthralling is the South Island – from the impressive West Coast glaciers to the stunning fiords at Milford Sound, from whale watching at Kaikoura to the incredible wildlife around Dunedin. A great way to cover South Island is to embark on an 8 nights / 9 days holiday covering Christchurch, Greymouth, the Glacier Region, Queenstown and Mt Cook. Your gateway to South Island is the ‘Garden City’ of Christchurch. Ride in the restored heritage Christchurch Tram to visit the must-see attractions of the inner city, including the Anglican Cathedral, the Arts Centre, the Art Gallery, Botanic Gardens, the Avon River and the Cathedral Junction. The Antarctic Centre is a must-do experience to experience the snowy and icy atmosphere of Antarctica, including the Antarctic storm.

From Christchurch you board the famous TranzAlpine train to Greymouth and then onward aboard a coach along the scenic West Coast, to the Franz Josef and Fox Glacier Regions. View of the stunning Franz Josef Glacier from the Sentinel Rock. Hear the glaciers creaking and cracking as they constantly grind down the valleys. Near Fox Glacier is the Lake Matheson, formed some 14,000 years ago from a huge sheet of trapped ice.

Travel further down the West Coast, past the spectacular mountain ranges, native forests, and the shores of Lake Wanaka and Hawea to reach the ‘Adventure Capital’ Queenstown. Indulge in bungee jumping, jet boating, whitewater rafting, four-wheel driving, cruising on Lake Wakatipu, the canyon swing, kayaking, riding a gondola to the summit of Bob’s Peak for panoramic views or simply enjoying the excellent shopping and dining available.

Embark on a day excursion to the spectacular Doubtful Sound in Fiordland - New Zealand's largest national park at almost 3 million acres. On a cruise down Doubtful Sound you will experience more shades of lush green than you knew existed, while you drift over 420 metre deep water. Experience a host of wildlife; seals and crested penguins gather on the shores, and sometimes bottle-nosed dolphins swimming alongside the boat. The drive, the cruise, the nature around you and the silence are experiences that are unparalleled.

From Queenstown you could drive along the shores to reach Mt Cook, or as known in Maori ‘Aorangi’- the cloud piercer. Mt Cook is a very special place and also boasts of some spectacular scenery.

New Zealand is a haven for those seeking rejuvenation and relaxation as well as a playground for thrill seekers and adventurers. This is a great country for self drive holidays – good roads, clear signage, light traffic and right-hand drive. Your Indian Driving Licence is recognized by the authorities. Choose from mid–size 1.5L cars to high-end 4-wheel-drive vehicles and drive down the vast landscape of New Zealand. Experience the most beautiful country in the world!

Sizzling Spain

2010-01-12T01:26:00.000-08:00

Spain is a beautiful mosaic of art, culture, geography, history, music, festivals and cuisine. Its charm lies in its diversity of sun-soaked beaches, heritage cwouldities and forgotten villages.
Spanish beaches are amongst the best in Europe. But if lolling on the beach is not your idea of a holiday, then head off to Spain’s beautiful cities that are packed with history, and are an art-lover’s dream. Enjoy the beautiful parks, open space, great shops and pulsating night-life.
Soak in marvellous Madrid with its Royal Palace and the famed Prado Museum - a museum and art gallery which features one of the world's finest collections of European art, from the 16th century through the early 19th-century. The heritage city of Toledo, with it unique Christian, Jewish and Moorish cultures, is a short drive from Madrid.

Visit bustling Barcelona - a Mediterranean city of great cultural and heritage. Check out the awe inspiring works of architect Antoni Gaudí, including the Sagrada Familia or the Basilica of the Holy Family. Visit the bustling Boqueria market, a fabulous food market. The stylish city of Barcelona has fashion, opera, nightlife, street theatre, art, food, and much more.

Savour the delights of other romantic Mediterranean cities like Valencia and Alicante. Or journey south to the exotic cities of Cordoba, Seville, Granada, and Málaga. Immerse yourself in their haunting Islamic palaces, the brilliant colours and sounds of flamenco, and in the birth-place and works of Picasso.

For those love the nightlife, a stay at Ibiza is a must. Ibiza is one of the Balearic Islands located in the Mediterranean Sea. It is well-known for its summer parties and big summer club nights. The days are relaxing, spent by the pool or on the beach. The place is alive come nightfall what with its endless pubs and nightclubs.

Should you yearn for peace and quiet then head off to the unspoiled villages, bursting with medieval castles, and colourful flora and fauna. These quaint Spanish villages are ideal for a relaxed holiday – peaceful walks, photography or just plain ‘get away from it all’ holidays. You could check out the skiing opportunities at Spain’s snow-capped peaks.

Travelling around Spain is quite easy, what with its many airports, good train service, and robust national bus and coach system. Besides that, Spaniards are friendly people that are ready to help you and they will make you feel at home. You could choose to stay at the Paradores, which are castles, palaces, fortresses and monasteries converted into hotels. The best of local cuisine is served at the Paradores restaurants.

Across the country, enjoy scrumptious Spanish food of a wide variety of fresh fruit and vegetables and an abundance of seafood, all washed down with the choicest wines. This traditional Spanish diet, with the liquid gold of its olive oil, fruits, vegetables, seafood and wine, all mean that it is extremely good for the heart. Even the local speciality of cured hams ‘Jamón Ibérico’ - has fat, unusually high in oleic acid, which is known to lower cholesterol levels! Of course, between meals you can indulge in tempting ‘tapas’ – a healthy snack with its origin in the southerly region of Andalucia.

Andalucia brings to mind the exotic flamenco dance and the Spanish guitar. Can a Spanish holiday be complete without visiting an authentic flamenco show or dancing the night away to the beat of romantic Spanish music? Come and visit Spain where the warmth of its climate is only surpassed by the warmth of its people.

Stunning South Africa

2010-01-11T01:44:00.001-08:00

South Africa is one of the most diverse, enchanting countries in the world. It is much more than the thrill of viewing lions up-close and personal, the breathtaking beauty of sunsets on the savannah and the delight of swimming with dolphins in tepid, azure blues seas. It is an exotic combination of landscapes, people, history, culture and experiences.

South Africa, the Rainbow Nation, is an exotic combination of rich culture, striking mountains, enchanting vineyards, glorious beaches, rugged landscapes and electrifying wildlife. Located at the southern tip of Africa, it is the meeting point of two great oceans and the gateway to the African continent.

Cape Town is one of the most beautiful places on earth that you just have to visit at least once in your lifetime. It is an awesome city - great parties, great shopping, loads of galleries and other cultural attractions. Cape Town’s most popular attractions are Table Mountain which is the soul of the city, the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Boulders Beach and its penguins, and Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens that showcases South Africa's fabulous floral heritage.

A quick spin by revolving cable car to the 1,086 m summit of Table Mountain gives you a breathtaking view the city, the famous Robben Island, and the most visited Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. The latter has an assortment of shopping, eating, entertainment and sightseeing facilities, all set within a working harbour. At close quarters to Cape Town are the picturesque wine valleys of Franschhoek, Paarl and Spier where you can indulge in wine tasting or simply relax and soak in the ambience.

No visit to the Western Cape is complete without at least a few days spent in the beautiful Garden Route region. Garden Route, a slender 300 km stretch of coastal plain between Mossel Bay and Storms River Mouth, is ideal for a self-drive holiday. Relaxing, active, romantic or family fun - the Garden Route offers it all. The sensitive coastline is protected from overdevelopment by South African National Parks in three areas – the Wilderness National Park, the Knysna National Lake Area, and the Tsitsikamma National Park. The towns of Garden Route include Mossel Bay, Wilderness, Knysna, Plettenberg Bay.

One of the must-sees along the Garden Route is Oudtshoorn, known as the Feather Capital of the World, thanks to its huge ostrich industry. Whilst there, you can visit the Crocodile and Cheetah Park and take pictures of yourself with the cheetah. Also check out the Cango Caves, of South Africa’s most spectacular natural wonders, to marvel at the icy formations underground.
South Africa is blessed with many national parks, of which the Kruger National Park is the most popular. Spread over 20,000 sq kms, it is home to an impressive number of species: 336 trees, 49 fish, 34 amphibians, 114 reptiles, 507 birds and 147 mammals. Soak in the wilderness and spot the Big Five - elephant, lion, leopard, rhino and buffalo.

While in South Africa, you could take an excursion to Livingstone in Zambia to see the Victoria Falls, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. At 1,708 meters wide, it is the largest curtain of water in the world. The sheer marvel of the towering columns of spray, the thunder of the waters as it drops into the Zambezi Gorge, the terrifying abyss and the tranquil lagoons upstream in which the hippos and the deadly crocodiles lurk, leaves you speechless and wanting for more.

South Africa’s 2800 km of sensational coastline with glorious white sands, offers some of the best beaches in the world. Enjoy the local cuisine of good old barbecue and spicy sausages, washed down with wines from its famous winelands. Check out the trendy nightspots with balcony restaurants and alfresco dining. The music scene here is as varied as its people; from Jazz, Hip Hop, traditional Zulu music to Kwaito – the local pop music.

South Africa is an exhilarating country that promises a wholesome holiday experience. It is sure to reward your senses and your soul much beyond your imagination!

Enchanting Egypt

2010-01-10T03:26:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Egypt, a country that takes you back five thousand years, and introduces you to the most ancient and mighty civilization in the world.

Egypt is alive with architecture, sound, beauty and excitement. The land of the Pharaohs, it is probably one of the oldest vacation spots. Early Greeks, Romans and others visited Egypt to see the wonders of the Pyramids. But Egypt is much more than Pyramids and monuments. It is also Red Sea scuba diving, nature and desert treks, fishing and birding expeditions, hot night spots, luxury hotels and five star restaurants. It is romantic cruises down the Nile on luxurious river boats, a night at the grand opera and unique cultural experiences.

Cairo is the gateway to this enchanting country. The city houses the magnificent Pyramids of Giza, the Valley Temple and the Sphinx, the Egyptian Museum and the San Sergious Church. You can spend endless hours wandering through the lively souks of Cairo. At the famed Khan el Khalily Bazaar, with well over 1000 shops, you can explore antiques, gold and silver ornaments, hand-crafted leather goods, alabaster vases, papyrus sheets, scents and incenses, blown glasswork, fancy souvenirs, cartouche pendants with your name written in ancient hieroglyphics, and Egyptian cotton clothing.

One of the most famous grand hotels in Egypt, the Mena House Oberoi lies at the foot of the pyramids in Cairo. Richly decorated in Oriental style, it has a distinctly Moorish ambience with spacious, fully equipped rooms and verdant gardens. The famed pyramids are a stone’s throw away and are even visible from the hotel swimming pool.

Fly to Aswan to board your cruise on the Nile - a must-have experience! Before boarding the cruise, do take time out to visit the world famous High Dam, an engineering marvel when it was built in the 1960s. Also visit the beautiful Temple of Philae, dedicated to the goddess Isis.
The cruise introduces you to many beautiful cities alongside the River Nile. Kom Ombo is a beautiful old city which houses the Kom Ombo Temple dedicated to the two Gods Sobek and Haroeris. The temple dates back to about 180 BC during the Ptolemaic era, with additions made in Roman times. It stands on the bank of the Nile between Edfu and Aswan. Edfu houses the Temple of Horus, built during the reigns of the Ptolemies between 237 BC and 57 BC. The cruise also takes you to the famed Deir el Bahari - a complex of mortuary temples and tombs, the temple of Hatshepsut, the Valley of the Kings and Colossi of Memnon.

Post a relaxed cruise you could experience the thrill of an adventure holiday. Hop onto your 4x4 vehicle and drive on the Bahariya desert road towards the Bahariya Oasis. En route you could visit the Wadi Al Hitan, the Valley of the Whales, home to 40 million old whale skeletons. Drive along the ancient caravan route of Darb Wadi Al Rayyan onwards to the Bahariya Oasis. Then towards the Black and White Deserts whose landscape is dominated by dozens of small black-topped mountains. Travel onward to the magnificent area of the Crystal Mountain and Aqabat. Aqabat, 'the difficult', is the name given to scores of rock sugarloaves surrounded by soft sand, powdered chalk and coloured stones of varied sizes. Drive onward till you reach the Farafra Oasis, the smallest oasis in the Western Desert, and the setting of the ancient town of Qasr al Farafra. The desert experience is truly thrilling.

Another option is a short break at the beautiful seaside resort towns of Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh. Located at the banks of the Red Sea, they are ideal for a luxurious holiday. Sharm el-Sheikh fascinates visitors with its Bedouins, colourful tents, mountains and sea. The warm waters of the Red Sea are ideal for many varieties of rare fish and coral reefs. Snorkel in these waters or observe them through glass bottom boats. Also check out the exciting night life at the various clubs.

Combine your Egypt holiday with a trip to Greece and Turkey. Come and experience Egypt, the cradle of civilization, on an exotic and unforgettable holiday.

Amazing Australia

2010-01-07T02:38:00.000-08:00

(In spite of all the problems that Indian students may be facing in Australia, the country is still a spectacular destination for the holiday traveller. Fabulous scenery, gourmet cuisine, a unique native culture and a vibrant art, dance and music scene make it well worth a trip.)

Australia is one of the most spectacular countries in the world. It encompasses the rocky red gorges in the North, the surf beaches in the East, the large stretch of the Great Barrier Reef in the North East, the snow covered mountain ranges in the South and lush vineyards in West. With an array of diverse experiences, an amazing culture and warm people, Australia is a fabulous holiday destination.

Queensland is famed for the pristine beaches of the Great Barrier Reef, the spectacular Whitsunday Islands, the theme parks at the Gold Coast, the bustling city of Brisbane, the salubrious atmosphere at Cairns, and of course, the glorious sunshine all year round. The Great Barrier Reef, the only natural world wonder visible from space, is your window to an amazing underwater world. Easily accessible from Cairns is the rainforest at Kuranda Village and the Tjapukai Park, which introduces you to aboriginal culture. While the serenity and tranquillity of Cairns charms you, the hustle and bustle of Gold Coast is sure to enthral you. Gold Coast is home to the theme parks - Dreamworld with the fastest and tallest rides in the world; Movieworld with your favourite movie experiences; and Seaworld with dolphin and shark shows.

New South Wales houses the Hunter Valley Wine Region and the Blue Mountains National Park, and has the charming city of Sydney as its gateway. Sydney, one of the world’s most spectacularly scenic cities, is located on the banks of the Darling river. It is home to the awesome Sydney Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and Sydney Tower – the tallest in the Southern Hemisphere. Among the must-visit attractions are the Royal Botanical Gardens and the picturesque Taronga Zoo which houses over 3,000 animals.

Victoria seduces with its rolling green hills of the Yarra Valley, the famed Great Ocean Road, the fabulous Philip Island and metropolitan Melbourne. In the wine area Yarra Valley, you experience the local wines and also ride aboard the famed steam train - Puffing Billy, as it traverses a path of 24 kms through forests, fern gullies and rolling farmlands. Drive down the Great Ocean Road for some spectacular scenery and a breathtaking view of the ‘Twelve Apostles’ – huge stone pillars rising from the surf. A fabulous experience is a visit to Philip Island, a 3 hours drive from Melbourne. At Philip Island you could board the Wildlife Coast Cruises to Seal Rocks to see thousands of seals in their natural habitat. A visit to the Philip Island Nature Park introduces you to hundreds of small fairy penguins – a truly unforgettable experience! The Philip Island Grand Prix Circuit holds the 500cc motorcycle races and the World Superbike Championship. Experience the thrill of Go Karting or Hot Laps in a HSV Holden on these tracks. Of course, Melbourne is a charming metropolis, home to the Melbourne Cricket Ground, great food and amazing shopping.

South Australia is a patchwork of diverse experiences – from Flinders Ranges and the Outback to the Simpson Desert, from the wine making Barossa Valley to elegant Adelaide. Adelaide is a sophisticated city that has preserved its heritage and links with the past. It is a clean and gracious city close to some of the best metropolitan coastal beaches in Australia. Easily accessible from Adelaide is the fabulous Barossa Valley with its charming wineries, great wine tasting and delicious winery lunch! The rolling Adelaide Hills is dotted with quaint villages to Hahndorf, rich in German heritage and a delight to walk and browse along the main street. Western Australia includes white sand beaches, marvellous marine life and beautiful forest areas.

Tasmania, slightly cut off from the mainland, boasts of alpine waterfalls, dense rainforests, sparkling glacial lakes of Cradle Mountain, and gigantic granite peaks of the Freycinet Peninsula. Cradle Mountain, with its icy streams cascading from rugged mountains, calm lake waters and a wealth of wildlife, is truly incredible. Explore the Huon Valley, and visit the Tahune AirWalk as well as sample the local wine and cheese. Down the East Coast of Tasmania is the Freycinet National Park. At close quarters to the Park is Wineglass Bay, one of the top 10 beaches in the world.

Australia is truly a travellers’ paradise and a perfect destination for a holiday of a lifetime.

Where taste and beauty meet: Piedmont

2010-01-05T02:31:00.000-08:00

The past and future meet in Piedmont. Innovation and new technology coexist with extraordinary natural beauty and landscapes, an array of cultural events and a vast offering of leisure activities. A gastronomic academy, the region’s historical and artistic heritage and its craft traditions stand side by side amongst research centres, higher education and industrial districts. In fact, in Piedmont, the host of the XX Olympic Winter Games, innovation and tradition coexist and strengthen each other.

Nestled in the northwest corner of Italy, Piedmont will undoubtedly surprise you with the charm of its ancient pleasures and its modern lifestyle, with a broad range of opportunities to satisfy the most diverse tastes and desires. Historical cities like Turin that are rich in art and culture; breathtaking mountains that are a trekker’s paradise; national parks and lakes, make Piedmont a haven of natural splendour.

Turin, the capital city of the Piedmont region, is located at a convenient one-hour travel distance from Milan. Blessed with a splendid view of the snow-crusted Alps and a fascinating stretch of the River Po, Turin is a little paradise on earth.

The city of Turin and its surroundings is a treasure trove of artistic and architectonic heritage spanning from Roman times. Indeed, the entire region is studded with seventeenth-century jewels. Splendid examples of Baroque architecture are the Royal Palaces and include the Reggia di Venaria, the Palazzina di Stupinigi, the Royal Palace, the Castles of Moncalieri and Racconigi: summer residences and hunting lodges, exceptional examples of pomp and wealth, they were declared a UNESCO Heritage Site in 1997.

Hot wheels enthusiasts would love to spend time at the Museum of the Automobile which has one of the world’s greatest collections of antique cars. While in Turin, another must-visit is the Mole Antonelliana, a building that is the symbol of the city, which has been converted into a unique National Cinema Museum - one of a kind in the world.

Piedmont is blessed with quaint mountain villages, rolling hills, fertile farmland and fabulous vineyards. A must-visit town is Barolo, a 90-minute drive from Turin, famed for the Marchesi di Barolo vineyard. Indulge in some great wine tasting at this100-acre large vineyard that produces a wide selection of world-famous red wines such as Barbera, Nebbiolo, Barolo, Barbaresco and sparkling white wines such as Asti Spumante and La Volta Brut.

Located a short 45-minute drive from Barolo is the quaint medieval town of Alba famed for its white truffles. Alba is also home to the confectionery group Ferrero, famed worldwide for its chocolates. Some of the other must-visit towns are Asti – famed for its sparkling white wines; Acqui Terme – where you can pamper yourself in the hot sulphur springs; Ivrea – the town of the hilarious Battle of Oranges; and Varallo – a delight for white-water rafters and kayakers.
No trip to Piedmont is complete without a trip to Lake Maggiore, the second largest lake in Italy and one of Italy’s best kept secrets. You could take a trip to the picturesque Borromean Islands viz. Isola dei Pescatori, Isola Bella and Isola Madre in the Italian part of Lake Maggiore.

Piedmont is famous among gourmands worldwide for its cuisine and red wines. On the hills, to the south of Turin, grow the plump and dark Nebbiolo grape, from which the highly regarded Barolo and Barbaresco wines are made. Other gastronomic delights are the cheeses and handmade chocolate of ancient tradition.

The cultural offering in Piedmont includes events ranging from music - classical, contemporary and avant-garde music, jazz and ethnic sounds, as well as the prolific electronic music scene – to theatre, ballet and cinema. Many festivals take place at locations of exceptional architectural or natural beauty, like historic piazzas and courtyards, abbeys and churches, castles, fortresses or the parks of stately homes. Piedmont hosts highly popular, internationally-famous events, like the Triennale, the International Book Fair, the Torino Film Festival and the Alba International Film Festival.

Piedmont is indeed a region that is worth visiting and experiencing!

An Italian journey

2010-01-04T02:05:00.000-08:00

Timeless cities, magnificent art, sculpture and architecture, bewitching medieval villages, fabulous food, great wine – Italy captivates you from the word go. Its cities boast imposing cathedrals, beautiful palaces and bustling piazzas. The countryside offers you spectacular landscapes and stunning scenery of medieval hill towns set among the lush fruit groves of orange, lemon, olive and chestnut. The amazing gastronomic delights of fresh fruit, seafood, pasta and pizza and fine wine from its vineyards, truly makes Italy the land of la dolce vita!
Italy is a country of diverse experiences. You could spend a lifetime admiring at the multitude of Italy’s wonders and still have more to be in awe of. A land blessed with millennia of history, the most legendary works of art, food and wine that awakens the senses, pristine mountains, peaceful lakesides and a stunning coastline, Italy has it all.

The ancient sun-warmed land pulses with secrets and messages from a rich and enigmatic past. In Italy one peels back the centuries even as one explores a country wreathed in myth and legend. Time has left behind an indelible imprint. The nation has spawned intellectual giants in the fields of literature, art, and science. Homer, Virgil, Dante, Columbus, Michelangelo, Vivaldi, etc have held the world in thrall for centuries and continue to do so even today.

When it comes to art, Italy is a veritable open-air museum. The Rennaisance period, with its creative spirit, left its mark on the cities of Florence, Rome, Venice, Milan, Naples and other smaller, with works by great Renaissance artists such as Leonardo de Vinci, Michelangelo, Donatello, Raffaello. The splendour of Baroque architecture is visible throughout the country - in the grandeur of the buildings and intricately decorated churches. The great archaeological wealth of the country includes the unique and fascinating valley of the Temples in Agrigento - one of the most magnificent testimonies of the ancient Greek civilization in Sicily, or the mysteries of Pompeii and Herculaneum in Campania, or of the Etruscan civilisation around Tuscia, in Lazio. Moreover, there are around 3000 museums scattered throughout the country.

The Italian peninsula in the Mediterranean Sea with its boot-like shape kicking the island of Sicily is covered in large parts by mountains. While the Dolomite range that extends across northern Italy is a part of the Alps, the Apennine mountains run down the centre of Italy, stretching from north to south, dividing the east and west coasts. The Italian Alps protected the country in ancient times from barbaric invasions and the imposing Monte Bianco is the highest peak in the country.

Romantic and scenic, Italy’s Lake District is a visual delight making it a perennial draw. The beautiful countryside, lush Mediterranean vegetation and the mild climate make the lake areas with their villages, towns and resorts amongst the most thriving holiday destinations in Italy. Studded with grand country houses and tourist resorts, each lake has its own story to tell and its distinct allure.

Italy’s coastline is striking and diverse. From lively beaches each presenting a distinct local flavour to completely untreaded shores, to mystifying grottoes, to overpowering cliffs dropping into the emerald expanse sweeping at their feet, they offer an unforgettable experience.
It is said that nowhere is Italian life more seductive than in the kitchen and at the table. Italian food is not just an art but has soul as well! It engages your senses of taste, smell, sight and touch and titillates your palate with the flavours of the traditional cooking styles of its many regions.
In the words of Giuseppe Verdi, “You may have the universe if I may have Italy”. Italy is magical yet modern, old world yet fashionable, charming yet chic. Come and experience the romance and splendour of Italy.

Magical Macau

2010-01-02T01:24:00.000-08:00

Macau is a place where the east meets west. Experience the fascinating blend of 400 years of Portuguese influence and 3,000 years of Chinese influence in the architecture, cuisine and customs.
A former Portuguese colony, Macau was handed back to China in December 1999. Comprising a total area of 29.2 sq km, it consists of a peninsula and two islands. Though small, it is full of history, culture, shopping and entertainment. The central focus is the busy Senado Square. This very Mediterranean town square is surrounded by some of Macau's most famous buildings, including the Leal Senado (Loyal Senate Building) and the church of St. Dominic.

Overlooking the busy town centre from their hillside perches are the ever-impressive Ruins of St. Paul’s and the historic Mount Fortress that offers a commanding view of the cityscape. The Museum of Macau, located within the fort enclosure, is great for some more of that essential Macanese history.

If you love history, you could also visit the St Anthony Church built with bamboo in 1560 and the ever-lively A-Ma Temple. Many say the name ‘Macau’ was derived from the Chinese ‘A-Ma-Gau’ meaning ‘Bay of A-Ma’, referring to A-Ma Temple. Another must-see is the imposing Guia Fortress, within which lie the Guia Chapel and Guia Lighthouse, the oldest lighthouse on the coast of China. The city also boasts of many other fine churches, old Chinese houses and colonial Portuguese mansions.

Another unique attraction of Macau is the theme park Fisherman’s Wharf. Three major themes of the complex are: Dynasty Wharf, East meets West Wharf and Legend Wharf. The Dynasty Wharf encapsulates Chinese history and culture in the form of traditional items sold in the exhibition. East meets West Wharf has Vulcania, a 40m tall replica volcano which 'erupts' every evening and inside of which the 'River of Fire' white-water and 'Dragon Quest' rollercoaster rides are housed. The exterior of Vulcania includes walkways styled on the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet. The Legend Wharf comprises a complex of 150 shops, hotels, restaurants and a casino themed on coastal towns including Miami, Cape Town, New Orleans, Amsterdam, Venice, Spain, Portugal and the Italian Riviera.

With many world-class entertainment complexes, Macau is today the entertainment capital of Asia. Home to gaming since the mid 19th century, it boasts of grand and luxurious casinos that put Las Vegas to shame. Other entertainment options include golf, spas, horseracing, greyhound racing and abundant nightlife. One of the highlights is the Macau Grand Prix with races around a 3.8 miles circuit around the picturesque city.

Macau’s Grand Prix draws international crowd to Macau every November. It is the ‘World’s only International Street Circuit’ race which features both car and motorcycle races. Over 200 competitors comprising World’s Formula 3 and racing drivers, as well as road and endurance racing motorcycle drivers, descend on Macau for participating in the Grand Prix.
Shopping is a key element of central city life. St. Dominic's Market fills the alleyways off the Senado Square. Other roads leading off the square are full of shops selling everything from factory overruns to the designer gear. The items one can buy here range from clothes, silk, jewellery, toys, electronic gadgets, antiques, porcelain, watches and cashmere shawls. Gold shops by the dozen line the main thoroughfare running between the square and the Leal Senado.
Shopping, along with the unique ambience that is a mix of the contemporary and the Colonial period, makes Macau an ideal tourist destination. With time it has successfully evolved and adapted to other cultures and lifestyle.

If a quick vacation is what you need, Macau is an ideal destination. With little or no pre-travel formalities, you could plan an exciting holiday to Macau easily and conveniently. It is a mere half an hour ferry ride away from Hong Kong. Flight connections into Hong Kong are good and there is no visa required for holidaying in Macau.

A holiday in Macau is truly spectacular and entertaining. Experience Macau on a holiday that is specially crafted just for you!

A lifetime of togetherness

2009-12-31T02:41:00.000-08:00

Honeymoons are about creating memories that will last a lifetime! Every couple dreams of a honeymoon that will be an unforgettable experience. What could be more romantic than spending it in stunningly beautiful Switzerland?

Switzerland captivates with its breathtaking mountains, Alpine villages, fairytale castles, lakeside chalets, chocolates and beautiful cultured cities. The Swiss Alps are what romantic dreams are made of. Abounding with awe-inspiring glaciers, they provide a spectacular backdrop for some picturesque villages with traditional painted houses.

South of the Alps is the Mediterranean ambience of beaches with palm trees, outdoor cafés, promenades and quaint houses with stone-dotted roofs. The new thrives with the old in the rich cultural cities of Zurich, Bern, Geneva and Basel. Stroll with your loved one through the city streets, taking in the medieval arcades with modern boutiques; modern architecture within easy reach of the Roman ruins, Medieval castles and Baroque cathedrals.

Whether it’s skiing down glaciers or walking the hills, cable car riding up Alpine mountain peaks or driving across breathtaking vistas, indulging in chic European shopping or relaxing at cosmopolitan cafés, Switzerland is the perfect destination for an unforgettable honeymoon.

Of course, you have many other options for your dream honeymoon. You could choose to cuddle up in the La Plume hotel in South Africa’s ostrich capital Oudtshoorn or taste the high life at stylish hotels like the Mount Nelson or the Table Bay in Cape Town. Else escape to a luxurious game lodge in the deep forests of Africa. Experience a bubble bath in the bush or sip sundowners while the waters of a stray Masai stream in Kenya, tickles your toes.

Spend an idyllic time of togetherness in picturesque Philippines, soaking in blue water at White Beach - the finest beach in the world, enjoying the amazing flora and fauna, and the fabulous islands of Boracay, Bohol and Cebu. Stroll with your loved one across Egypt’s historic and cultured city of Cairo, gaze at the mammoth Pyramids, scuba dive in the Red Sea, drive on the Bahariya desert road towards the Bahariya Oasis, enjoy a romantic cruises down the Nile on a luxurious river boat, spend a night at the grand opera and dine at luxury five star restaurants.
Have a relaxed honeymoon in the beautiful English countryside. Stay at opulent mansions like the Ston Easton Park in Bath and the Buckland Manor near Broadway. Visit Stratford upon Avon, Warwick - Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Cotswolds and of course, London.

Laze around on the softest, whitest sand at the fabulous resorts on the beautiful islands of Mauritius or Maldives. Experience the high life at the chic Six Senses resorts at Phuket in Thailand or at the luxurious all-inclusive Club Med resorts around the world. Romance your loved one in magical Malaysia.

A beautiful cruise down the azure Mediterranean waters, watching multi-hued sunsets and bustling ports of call is a great option for a delightful honeymoon. A cruise is a luxurious floating resort with incredible food, world-class entertainment and endless activities. It provides you with a complete vacation in one convenient, all-inclusive package. Just lie back and do whatever you like - relax on the deck, enjoy the choicest food, check out the entertainment, sleep as long as you like and wake up in someplace new. You could choose to combine a cruise vacation with a land holiday customized to your requirements.

Mercury Travels promises you a honeymoon of a lifetime – guaranteed to bring you closer.

Shopping for a wedding

2009-12-30T02:27:00.000-08:00

Planning your wedding trousseau? Then Singapore is a place to be. Singapore offers the latest fashion selections - from elegant bridal gowns and couture cocktail dresses to weekend club wear and cutting edge everyday wear. Singapore is a shopper's heaven and the shopping places range from air-conditioned shopping malls, huge department stores and hotel arcades to market stalls, night bazaars and alleys. There is a variety of premium quality goods found in Singapore’s bustling commercial centers. Contemporary shopping complexes along high-energy Orchard Road boast dazzling international selections, while some of the best bargains can be found in the suburban housing estates. It is arguably the most popular shopping paradise in Asia.

Browse through the vast amount of fashion boutiques where you can get clothes, shoes, jewellery and electronics at great prices. Be sure to check out Orchard Road which is the Mecca of shopping in Singapore. Nothing beats Arab Street for trousseau shopping. You can spend hours here browsing for fabrics – Chantilly Lace from France, French Chiffons, Gossamer Lace from Holland and Scotland vying for shelf space with delicate, gold-embroidered organzas. This locality is a trade secret amongst the Indian designers who source fabric for sarees and lehengas to weave magical ensembles.

While you are here for shopping, try your hands on the exclusive scent making workshop at Sentuers. Learn how perfumes are created from scratch...just in 2 hours! Find out the secrets of blending essential oils and aroma compounds to create scents at a hands-on interactive perfume class. You can build your own personalized scent with more that 80 perfume raw materials and have it blended into anything from oil based scents to shower gels. A perfume that brings out the fragrance of your love can be a perfect gift for your fiancé.

There’s enough choice to spin the head of any jewellery fan, from the stupendously luxurious jewellery houses like Chopard, Van Cleef & Arpels, Tiffany & Co., Cartier and Bulgari to the value for money shops like Larry, Mondial. Try your hand at the local jewellery labels like Soo Kee, Kee Jwa and TainPo to add a Singaporean touch to your beautiful trousseau.

Spice up your life and surprise your partner with the sexy lingerie which will put your night on fire! The lingerie stores in Singapore have a wide range of exciting sets which is specially designed for you to take control and create different moods for love. A bride looking for everything from sexy swimsuits, sensual nightwear to romantic lingerie will find a wide range in Singapore-wear that combines feminity, flamboyance, graphics and colors. Visit the Lingerie Galleria at the Raffles Hotel Shopping Arcade to check a delicious selection of lingerie, sleepwear and resort and swimwear. They carry sexy lace creations like La Perla from Italy and France. And some of the finest lingerie brands including Cotton Club, Eres, Triumph, Marvel, Lise Charmel and Exilia. Also check out Tannlines in Paragon and Wisma Atria who specialize in swimwear and "active wear". The store has the Wahine swimwear label, Aztec Rose surf-inspired apparel, Running Bare active wear and more. Don't miss the lingerie sections of stores like Takashimaya, Robinsons, Metro, and John Little and Tangs.

Visit My Dream Wedding to personalize your wedding needs. It is one of the major bridal shops and services in Singapore. It provides a wide array of custom design services for the wedding day which is probably the biggest day of your life. Whether it is the wedding gowns or wedding themes, this shop is the ultimate destination. A stop at Tras Street is a must for those looking for a grand wedding to cherish for all.

Singapore indeed is an ideal destination where you can buy everything under the sun to match all your wedding needs. Plan Singapore as your trousseau shopping destination and get home the finest collection for your wedding!

A romantic adventure

2009-12-29T01:49:00.000-08:00

Do you and your beloved take adventure as seriously as you took your vows? Treetop walks, wakeboarding, kayaking, hiking – whet your palate and take the plunge. Hide away in your own private paradise, or venture out to where the bright city lights are - never too far away.
Are you ready for the flight of your life? If yes, then MegaZip is a must visit place for you. Hidden in the jungle of Imbiah Hill, it is the perfect destination for couples who can throw caution to the wind as they zip, climb, swing and plunge in one of Singapore’s premiere beachside locations.
For those who crave for more excitement around water, Singapore has that too. You can water ski, scuba dive or go sailing. Discover some of Singapore's amazing diving sites that hold rich marine life. If you are looking to reach and enjoy true solitude with your loved one, go canoeing in the warm ocean water. Paddle and explore the idyllic waters, catch a bit of the sun and live up the fitness spirit. To rent your double kayak, head over to any of the sea sports operators at Changi Point, East Coast Park, Mac Ritchie Reservoir, Kallang Sea Sports Club and Sentosa Island. Singapore is one of Asia's top water-skiing and wakeboarding centers. Several operators rent out equipment and also offer professional instruction.
Get the ultimate bungee experience only at G-MAX located in the downtown Singapore. Clarke Quay is the home of bungee and for any adventurous couple; Singapore is the place to be. The G-MAX Reverse bungee is perhaps the most extreme Singapore activity of all!
One of the most romantic ways to see the city with your soul mate is a twilight cruise on the Singapore River. Catch the Singapore skyline bathed in the moon’s silvery gleam.
Love to spend your time with your partner under the canopy of stars? Do visit Night Segway® to experience a night full of spark in Sentosa. Cruise through the island's dazzling evening attractions underneath the stars, and experience a thrilling adventure on a whole new level!
An experience not to be missed in Singapore is the only virtual rollercoaster ride - CineBlast. Ideally located next to 4D Magix – Sentosa, it is Asia’s first and only experiential 4-dimensional motion-simulated cinematic ride. With wide-screen projection and high definition, you’ll find yourself propelled into parallel worlds of fun, excitement and exhilaration with your partner.
A wild date anyone? Take a walk on the wooden boardwalks and trails skirting the edge of the MacRitchie Reservoir and through the forest. This 250m long and 27m high suspension bridge connects the two highest points of the reservoir - Bukit Pierce and Bukit Kalang. It offers a spectacular canopy-level contrast to the usual under-story view from the jungle floor. Instead of arching their necks to observe the canopy, you are now able to catch a glimpse of the vibrant ‘high life’ of the forest at your eye level. From this high vantage point, nature enthusiasts will be able to have a closer observation of the animal community in the shelter or take a peek at the flowers or fruits of tall trees and climbers and their pollination activities.
Singapore may be in the tropics, but in Snow City you can ski, snowboard or snowtube around the man-made icy slopes or build your own snowman right in sunny Singapore.
Cycling is a great way to explore the parks and natural reserves of Singapore. Cycling tracks abound in the parks, but if you want something really tougher than flat ground, try mountain biking at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve or Pulau Ubin. These are untamed tracks, rough and raw, going over steep slopes and gravel paths, crossing into some of Singapore's wilderness and outback sites. So rent your 2-wheelers from bicycle kiosks in the parks and cruise along while enjoying the pleasant and serene ambience.
If holding hands with your sweetheart and rollerblading is your thing, head to the tree-lined East Coast Park and feel the sea breeze gently caress your face. You can blade though a McDonald's restaurant, a world's first skate through outlet, to purchase drinks or ice cream to quench your thirst.
Each moment spent in Singapore will create memories to last, woven together with wonderful experiences to cherish for a lifetime. Come let Singapore be your romantic paradise.

Singapore: Treated with care!

2009-12-28T01:54:00.000-08:00

Pamper yourself in a lavish spa, shop at the world’s finest boutiques, grab great seats to a hot new show, or enjoy the Singapore skyline from your penthouse suite in the sky! Luxurious, opulent and sprawling hotels are usually complemented with exotic, state-of-the-art spas that indulge your senses and soothe your nerves.

The singular locale of Capella Singapore ensures that a vacation on Sentosa Island is like none other. The South China Sea is your backyard. The Auriga Spa at the resort takes a holistic approach to wellness offering four signature treatments designed to reflect the varying energies of the lunar cycle, which correspond to our four seasons. The New Moon mirrors winters - a season to rest, reflect and gain new strength. The Waxing Moon harbours the characteristics of spring - the best time to sow the seeds and nourish the earth. The Full Moon denotes the summer in bloom - it is the time of harvest. Lastly, The Waning Moon is autumn - a time to cleanse the body and earth, to give space for new life and to commence the cycle again.

Located on level 5 of The Mandarin Oriental, Singapore, their 528-square-metre spa comprises four luxurious treatment rooms, a Couples’ Suite, a Shiatsu room, a private Relaxation Lounge and a Mind and Body yoga studio. The innovative and restorative treatments at The Oriental Spa merge both ancient and modern techniques and philosophies from around the world, using 100 percent pure essential oils and herbs. They aspire to provide each guest with a personalized sensory journey, focussing on the six senses. With exotic oriental interiors and authentic spa rituals from skilled therapists, The Oriental Spa presents its guests with a complete luxury spa indulgence experience.

Escape now to the sublime tranquillity of The Asian Spa, located at The Fullerton Hotel. This heritage hotel boasts a perfect union of panoramic city views and tantalizing spa treatments. It offers facilities like private couple’s spa suites, exquisite treatment rooms and reviving steam baths. Enjoy sheer romance while luxuriating together in the private Jacuzzi with a Fragrant Bath of Flowers or a Dead Sea Salts Minerals Bath, a relaxing bath treatment rich in mineral salts and trace elements.

ESTHEVA, recently voted as Top Day Spa in the Best of Singapore, has won it thrice in 2006, 2007 and 2008. Their platter of spa treatments range from Face Care Spa, Bridal Spas, and Couples Spas etc. with the Bridal Spa treatments taking care of your beauty and make-over needs as you prepare yourself for holy matrimony beginning with being the Dream Bride. Their best-loved honey and chocolate-inspired spa package for couples is naughty and suggestive and is offered in their luxuriously appointed VIP Couple Suites. Their ‘ladies' night out’ packages are a series of Spa Nights packages for women who want to just spend time by themselves.

Spa Botanica was voted among the best in the global spa scene by Conde Nast Traveller UK. Located at The Sentosa Resort & Spa on Singapore's Sentosa Island this is a delightfully idyllic retreat for couples, offering beautiful gardens, outdoor mud pools, pavilions and galaxy steam baths. Surrender to the peace and tranquillity of a private garden pavilion where fragrant flowers sweetly scent the air. Their treatments are offered in natural surroundings, sometimes in outdoor massage pavilions. A revitalizing soak in a sweet-smelling frangipani filled tub and an elixir of calming tea completes the cycle of blissful reawakening.

An enchanting experience awaits you at The Retreat Spa & Thalasso. Let the Golden Scrub, Golden Bath, Golden Wrap and a sculpting body massage gently revitalise you and moisturize your body with their minerals in floral essential oils. Sojourn to a romantic setting and bask in each other's love while you renew your body, mind and spirit. An unforgettable experience indeed! Indeed, Singapore provides the perfect setting for a romantic holiday. Each moment spent in Singapore will create memories to last, woven together with wonderful experiences to cherish for a lifetime.

Savouring Singapore

2009-12-25T02:44:00.000-08:00

In cosmopolitan and multicultural Singapore, you can expect nothing less than a melange of flavours and experiences from around the globe. It’s not just East-meets-West, but is a collection of cultures, tastes and culinary exploits. The most popular way to enjoy the rich culture of flavours is at Singapore’s greatest culinary institution – the hawker centres!

A hawker centre is a collection of stalls selling food at very reasonable prices, in an open-air arrangement. Here hundreds of stalls prepare a staggering variety of food, all under stringent health inspection. Among the din of clanging trays, the shouted orders, the tropical heat, and wonderful smells of spices is a gastronomic and cultural experience that can be had only in Singapore. Visit Chinatown Complex Temporary Market & Food Centre, East Coast Lagoon Food Village, Geylang Serai Market, Golden Mile Food Centre, Lau Pa Sat Festival Market, Maxwell Food Centre, Newton Food Centre, Zion Riverside Food Centre and Glutton’s Bay for this no-frills experience that’s common in Singapore and unique in Asia. Malaysian, Indonesian, Indian and Chinese cuisines and re-blended into Pacific Rim fusions at its most glorious.

Surrounded by water, Singapore probably has the best waterfront dining in Asia. Alfresco dining at Boat Quay is a heady not to be missed experience. Once Singapore’s busiest port, Boat Quay has been transformed into a popular hangout with chic cafés, high-end restaurants, yuppie pubs and designer galleries. This picturesque, busy stretch offers great views of the Singapore River and part of the colonial district. Clarke Quay is Singapore's only riverside festival village combining dining, shopping and entertainment. On the 23,000 square-metre site are five blocks of building housing and shophouses, restored to their original 19th century style. This area has a spread of specialty restaurants, themed pubs and wine bars. Across the river lies a range of exciting dining experience at the Riverside Point.

Pick up a culinary tip or two at some of the culinary academies in Singapore. Whether it is local, Asian, Middle Eastern or European cuisine, there's something for everyone and is a sure way of spicing up your holiday. We recommend Shermay's Cooking School, where cookbook author, Shermay, teaches cooking in her own demonstration kitchen. Although the main focus of her school is to teach Nonya cuisine based on her grandmother's traditional recipes; French cuisine, home-style Chinese and desserts are also taught. Classes are designed to make cooking easy and fun for novice as well as advanced chefs.

At-sunrice is a culinary centre dedicated to promoting pan-Asian cuisine, culinary skills and craftware. It offers cooking demonstration and tasting classes to actual hands-on cooking classes. Pick from a variety of short courses such as "quick cooking for dinner parties" and "Asian cooking class". Besides being poised to make its culinary stand as a fine dining bistro, the Coriander Leaf strives to establish itself as a culinary school. Coriander Leaf emphasises home cooking. The half-day culinary courses in a studio setting highlight the best in South Asian, South-East Asian, Middle Eastern and fusion cooking.

More than a cooking school, the prestigious Raffles Culinary Academy also conducts lifestyle classes covering a range of topics such as wines and etiquette, how to plan a party, home dining, as well as lessons on oyster and foie gras appreciation. If you are looking for cooking classes in the comfort of a Singapore home, Cookery Magic is your choice, as it offers a wide variety of classes in Malay, Indian, Mediterranean, Vegetarian and baking amongst many others.

Take a food tour to unravel the rich heritage and food culture in Singapore! The Makansutra Food Safari Tour seeks to reveal and share the great colour and taste of Singapore’s food culture. Embark on a whirlwind whiz to taste, sample and eat some of the best dishes around here. Besides the popular local hawker fare, like chicken rice, laksa, bak kut teh or rojak, the Food Safari can also include a dining experience that incorporates the top and award winning local restaurants serving both Asian and modern international cuisine. A Food Host will be at hand to regale the colourful story of the local food and its culture.

A romantic culinary experience

2009-12-24T01:36:00.000-08:00

Looking for that perfect romantic paradise filled with tropical beaches, distinctive culture, charming warmth with tantalizing culinary experience? Come to Singapore, and witness a perfect romantic getaway that is meticulously designed for couples who demand only the very best! Each experience includes luxurious accommodations, blissful spa treatments, uncommon activities and pampering service so you can focus on what is most important – that someone special. And if you are one of those food buffs who love to taste a variety of cuisine in a unique setup, then Singapore is a place to be! The isle offers a sumptuous gastronomy experience….and that too in truly Singapore style.

Visit Jewel Box, to spend some quality time with your love, situated 90m above sea level; it offers unparalleled view of Singapore’s city skyline, harbour and its surrounding islands. Enjoy ethereal ambience and intimate dining experiences at any one of the restaurants in the complex like The Altivo Bar and Faber Rock. The privacy and tranquility of nature and the spectacular views leave an indelible impression on any romantic duo.

Do visit Singapore Botanical Garden if you love to explore an exquisite French culinary experience. With a breathtaking setting in an outdoor terrace, just 12 tables, and a total capacity of 42, it's perfect for romantic moments. At night a huge chandelier casts a romantic glow over the upstairs balcony. Ask for one of the three tables on the glassed-in terrace. At dinner, choose between a seven-course "Menu Dégustation" and the chef's "Renaissance Menu", a 14-course extravanganza. With so many thrills, this is certainly the prettiest place to dine in Singapore!

If you are one of those who prefer to witness romantic sunset and star-studded skies on your menu, visit Top of the 'M' Revolving Restaurant as they offer luxurious continental dinner menu which does enough justice to the magnificent surroundings. Be serenaded by the strolling musicians who stop by tables occasionally to entertain, with their repertoire of songs. City lights spill into its dim interiors, merging with the orange glow of candlelight. Marble floors with beautiful leather chairs set the perfect stage for a night of romantic dining. Watch the world go pass dining in this restaurant that revolves 360 degrees around, offering you a spectacular bird's eye view of Singapore.

Clink your wine-glasses amidst the gothic charm of CHIJMES. This bustling enclave of retail shops, restaurants, and nightspots, was once an old convent and school. With its gothic architecture, stained glass windows, manicured lawns and paved courtyards, CHIJMES is exquisitely romantic. Feel the enchanting mood over a romantic dinner at Maison de Fontaine. Sit in the cool breezy courtyard and go starry-eye over the homemade duck pâté with foie gras d'Oie and the soufflé with Grand Marnier, surrounded by cascading fountains and the faint strains of music. Or indulge yourself with Italian food sitting in the romantic gazebo of Pizzeria Giardino. There are many other restaurants to choose from, you won't be disappointed.

Think you've tried just about every dining experience in Singapore? You may be in for a surprise when you visit Singapore Flyer. It offers "the world's first fine culinary dining experience in the skies". Experience a three-course meal with full butler service set amidst a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of Singapore's night skies. Each capsule is restricted to only 10 diners, making it ideal for a romantic night. If that's not intimate enough, you can book an exclusive, private capsule (from two to 10 guests), truly unique! Isn’t it?

Unique is the word that best captures Singapore, the food capital of Asia and a true heaven for the gastronomically inclined soul. In almost every corner of the island, you will find an endless variety of food, served hot or cold, at any hour of the day (or night), with unique fine dining setting. Come and enjoy countless fascinating experiences with your partner and take away memories that are uniquely Singapore. Don't Miss!

A red haute honeymoon

2009-12-23T00:56:00.000-08:00

Katie Holmes said, “Tom and I will always be in our honeymoon phase”.

A honeymoon destination is chosen with great care, keeping in mind the need for privacy amidst beautiful locales and luxurious accommodation, making the voyage a once in a lifetime experience. While on the subject, a destination that comes to mind is Sentosa, that’s translates to peace and tranquility in Malay.

Begin the most important journey of your wedded life at Sentosa, a tropical island located at the Southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. Just 15 minutes off the coast from Singapore, Sentosa is a unique blend of leisure and recreational facilities, attractions, fine dining, sea sports, and adventure escapades. Add to that luxurious hotel accommodations, spas, and island resorts. Revel in lush greenery, be enthralled with breathtaking views of the South China Sea, laze on the cliff top or be pampered with impeccable service, the island resort will make your honeymoon a uniquely memorable experience.

With a variety of hotels ranging from seven-star hotels to chalets and spa boutiques, there is an option to suit every budget. Capella Singapore ensures that your honeymoon is like none other. The hotel’s peaceful setting on a knoll features a masterfully restored colonial building forming the centrepiece for its modern architecture and contemporary art surrounding. The award-winning Rasa Sentosa Resort, by Shangri-La is another great destination for a tropical getaway. The only beachfront resort in Singapore, it is set on the glistening Siloso Beach. With seven hotels, the island is a luxury paradise for amorous honeymooners.

One of Asia's best kept secrets, Spa Botanica is located at The Sentosa Resort & Spa. This romantic retreat offers beautiful gardens, outdoor mud pools, pavilions and Galaxy Steam baths, pampering you with a tinge of modern and traditional health and beauty practices. The Royal Suite will revitalize and pamper couples with the reviving aroma of the seven jet shower. An all time favorite is the King's Bath, a 450 kg bath tub hand-tooled meticulously from cast bronze to retain the warmth of sensuous milk, floral or herbal baths.

Collect exotic beach shells and play with the surf on your feet at Sentosa’s three beaches, Tanjong Beach, Siloso Beach, Palawan Beach. These beaches also double up as ideal settings for delectable gourmet cuisine. Visit Trapizza on Siloso beach and watch the beautiful sun setting on the far horizon. At the edge of Palawan Beach, Braise serves unique cuisines, based on the French philosophy of natural seasonal flavors, enhanced by modern culinary technique with the freshest possible ingredients. Barnacles Restaurant & Bar is a contemporary and stylish lifestyle venue serving both Western dishes and Chinese specialties and offering panoramic views of the South China Sea. Setting new standards for beach parties and nightlife with its music and Ibiza pedigree, Café del Mar at Sentosa reinvents the beach party culture and is set to become the iconic spot in beach life and entertainment in this city.

Need a lesson in love? Get naughty at the Nature Walk at Sentosa Nature Discovery. Let the birds and the bees and the humdrum of the trees tempt you to get wicked and tease your partner. Meander through a secondary rainforest, and have a closer look at Sentosa's flora and fauna. Maybe the infectious love-bug will bite you, numbing your senses and leaving only your heart alive to beat for your beloved.

Check out Siloso Beach’s latest lifestyle attraction, Wave House Sentosa! Offering exhilarating rides akin to the Wave Houses found in North America, Chile and South Africa, thrill seekers can look to make a wild splash and get their adrenaline fix whether surfing the tube, jumping waves or performing gravity defying flips and stunts. And for those itching for some retail therapy, drive 10 minutes into Singapore, a city that has topped the Country Brand Index Survey as the Best Destination for Shopping.

Honeymoon experiences in Sentosa are truly experiences of a lifetime! An unrivalled location, promising a magical ambience and all the elements of romance and indulgence are the right ingredients for a truly memorable holiday.