In this issue

Opportunities Industry news Storyboard Interested in � Reasons to write about �

Lugenda Bush Camp - Northern Mozambique St Kirtts and Nevis The Utopia Spa at Alexander House Whale watching Maderia Great spas in Florida Riga, Latvia Flight lines

The Explorer�s Daughter

For the first two years of her life CIoJ Travel Writer, Kari Herbert, daughter of polar explorer Sir Wally Herbert, lived among one of the last surviving Inuit tribes. Her first words were Inuktun - the Thule dialect of Greenlandic - her first friends the children of local hunters, and her first steps taken on the Arctic tundra.

Kari�s latest book, The Explorer�s Daughter chronicles her return to this place of savage beauty, where her childhood friends and �family� still hunt with harpoon in skin kayaks in the summer, and drive dog teams for hundreds of miles in the four-month-long winter night.

For more information, review copies or interview opportunities contact Kari Herbert at kari@kariherbert.com or her publicist Katherine Stroud at Penguin at katherine.stroud@uk.penguingroup.com

� Opportunities

Media Invitation - Isle Of Wight International Jazz Festival: 7-9 April 2006

A few complimentary tickets are available for journalists interested in covering the Isle of Wight International Jazz (Divas) Festival , which has been credited as being a main reason why the Isle of Wight won seventh place in the top 20 list of up and coming places for creative mix of contemporary culture. Contact Laura Griffiths at laura@adpr.co.uk.

Media Invitation: Press trip to South Africa's Zulu Kingdom In Feb/March

Ethos Marketing has 2 tickets to Durban, South Africa, which need to be used by end March 2006. Ethos need more than one confirmed commission, including either a glossy magazine or a national. Contact Claire Roadley at claire@ethosmarketing.co.uk.

Press trip to Bolton : Friday 10 to Sunday 12 March 2005

Marketing Manchester, the tourist board for Greater Manchester, in partnership with Bolton�s Tourism Unit and Virgin Trains, is inviting travel and a guest to visit Bolton for a weekend media visit from Friday 10 to Sunday 12 March.

The weekend includes the chance to visit some of Bolton�s fantastic attractions and attractive countryside as well as watching premiership side Bolton Wanderers play against West Ham United. It also allows you plenty of time to discover and enjoy Bolton at your leisure:

Friday 10 March

Complimentary first-class rail travel direct to Manchester from London Check into De Vere Whites � a 4 star hotel uniquely integrated into the Reebok Stadium. Enjoy dinner hosted by the tourism unit of Bolton Council.

Saturday 11 March

Learn more about Bolton from a guided tour of the area taking in a wealth of the town�s attractions, history and beautiful countryside followed by lunch at the Reebok stadium courtesy of Bolton Wanderers Football Club.

After lunch enjoy the thrill of the match from the comfort of your own pitch view hotel room. Dinner at the hotel followed by chance to spend the rest of the evening enjoying the area�s great nightlife.

Sunday 12 March

Can be spent at your leisure. Option of a tour of the Reebok Stadium. Bolton has an abundance of attractions and first-class shopping. Return journey to London

Places on this trip are limited

To register your interest email contact details and name of publication to press@marketing-manchester.co.uk

Zip-R-Lok

The Tecco Corporation has invented a new type of pick pocket resistant device - called the Zip-R-Lok - for travel goods and accessories.

The device is a deterrent to any pick pocket because it requires the use of two hands, but can be easily opened by the owner in a couple of seconds.

It has a single digit 'random' code that the owner knows, but a pick pocket does not.

CioJ Travel Writers wishing to receive a free sample of the Zip-R-Loc should contact david@teccocorp.com

� Industry news

Destinations for 2006

Flight Centre has made its predictions as to the destinations that are going to be popular with travellers in 2006 writes Karin Jones.

Cambodia

Ancient temples, empty beaches, mighty rivers, remote forests ...and (outside Angkor Wat) only a handful of tourists. But the word is out - Cambodia has emerged from decades of war and isolation and is well and truly back on the Southeast Asian travel map.

Croatia

With its sublime stretch of Adriatic coast, Croatia has long been regarded as one of the most beautiful parts of Europe. Despite the tragedy of war, its charms remain largely intact; most of the tourist areas have been lovingly recreated.

Cuba Cuba is the Caribbean's largest and least commercialised island and one of the world's last bastions of communism. Its relative political isolation has prevented it from being overrun by tourists, and locals are sincerely friendly to those who do venture in. Cuba will change significantly over the next few years, so get in quick and watch it evolve.

Germany Germany is back on the map with World Cup fever. Germany wears its riches well: elegant big-city charm, small picture-postcard towns, pagan-inspired harvest festivals, a wealth of art and culture and the perennial pleasures of huge tracts of forest, delightful castles and fine wine and beer are all there for the savouring.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is currently experiencing a renaissance of sorts, largely due to Hong Kong Disneyland. It has the big city specials like smog, odour, 14 million elbows and an insane love of clatter. But it's also efficient, hushed and peaceful: the transport network is excellent, the shopping centres are sublime, and the temples and quiet corners of parks are contemplative oases. The best thing about being in Hong Kong is getting flummoxed and fired by the confluences and contradictions of a Chinese city with multi-Asian and Western elements.

Morocco

Tangier, Casablanca, Marrakesh... just the names of these cities stir a hint of spice in the nostrils. Morocco is the ideal African starting point for the traveller. An easy hop from Europe, it is hectic but friendly and stimulating as well. Open-air markets throughout the country are piled high with rugs, woodwork, jewellery and leather - said to be the softest in the world.

Peru It's the multiple layers of great civilisations that make Peru so intriguing. You can wander around colonial cities that have preserved the legacy of the Spanish conquistadors, visit the ancient Inca capital of Cuzco, explore the lost city of Machu Picchu and ponder the enigma of the Nazca Lines. It also has some of the most spectacular and varied scenery in South America.

Russia A composite of the extravagant glories of old Russia and the drab legacies of the Soviet era, it's a country that both befuddles and beguiles. This is a land of snow and deadly winters, but also of rivers that meander across meadows and a midsummer sun that never sets. Its people, in the words of a Russian proverb, 'love to suffer', yet they also love to party and can be disarmingly generous and hospitable.

Tahiti

For more than 200 years, Tahiti has represented the tropical-paradise myth for Europeans. It's French Polynesia's biggest, most famous and historically interesting island. People come for it�s stylish resorts, chalk-white beaches shaded by swaying palm trees and over-water bungalows. A long way to travel? Not for those looking for a spot of paradise perhaps.

Vietnam Most visitors to Vietnam are overwhelmed by the sublime beauty of the country's natural setting: the Red River Delta in the north, the Mekong Delta in the south and almost the entire coastal strip are a patchwork of brilliant green rice paddies tended by women in conical hats. There are some divine beaches along the coast, while inland there are soaring mountains, some of which are cloaked by dense, misty forests.

Contact Karin Jones at Karin.jones@flightcentre.co.uk

Million Visitor Homepage

UK-based rail directory company, The Rail Mall www.therailmall.com which sells everything from train travel to rail memorabilia, has launched the �Million Visitor Homepage� www.railpixels.com to publicise train and rail-related companies worldwide.The Railway Children charity www.railwaychildren.org.uk will receive 10% of profits from the website which will remain online for at least five years. Contact Adrian Johnson at adrian@lucrecommunications.com.

New from the Travel Channel in January

Jules Sylvester�s Wild Adventures

From Marrakech to animals crossing Kenya�s Mara River, Jules Sylvester travels the world in search of the exotic. Hour long episodes feature Mexico and Africa. Premieres 7 February 2006 at 21.00 UK time.

Riding Eastern Europe

Motorbike-mad globetrotter Henry Cole is racing through Eastern Europe. Henry and his crew go on an epic 2000 km motorcycle ride from Eastern Germany to Poland, back to Prague and the Czech Republic into Slovakia and finally on to journey�s end and Budapest.

Seven part series premieres Friday, 17 February 2006 at 21.00 UK time.

Travel 2006 � February

Travel 2006 reports from the Portuguese capital, Lisbon. Monday�s at 20.30 UK time

Globe Trekker

Ian Wright and crew in the award winning Globe Trekker series, nightly at 22.00 UK time. Featured episode include exploration of Paupa New Guinea, Nepal, Central America, Cambodia, Madagasgar, Sri Lanka and Vietnam.

Contact Petra Shepherd at petra@travelchannel.co.uk

The Sheraton Bahrain

The Sheraton Bahrain Hotel & Towers has started a complete refurbishment as part of Bahrain�s newest development, the Bahrain World Trade Centre complex. The project will see a complete revamping of all 256 rooms, meeting rooms, restaurants, recreation facilities and public areas and direct link to the twin towers of the World Trade Centre. The completion date is set for Oct. 2006. www.sheraton.com/bahrain Contact Sarah Moreira at sarah.moreira@starwoodhotels.com

Travel writing courses

Award-winning journalist Daniel Scott will be offering his successful travel writing courses in a number of European locations in the coming months including Granada in Spain (dates in February and March), Pau in south-west France (April and May) and Sicily (May). Contact Daniel Scott at danscott26@yahoo.co.uk.

Paris

Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts has acquired the historic palais of Prince Roland Bonaparte with plans to convert it to the Shangri-La Hotel, Paris in late 2008. This will mark the group's European debut. Contact Kate Jones at kate.jones@shangri-la.com.

Jamacia

Sunset Resorts' new Bliss In Paradise wedding package is available at the company's three Jamacian, all-inclusive, properties which are Sunset Beach Resort & Spa, Montego Bay; Sunset Jamaica Grande Resort, Ocho Rios and Sunset at the Palms, Negril. Contact Andria Mitsakos at Andria@andriamitsakospr.com

Westin Turnberry Resort

the Westin Turnberry Resort, Scotland, celebrates its centenary on 17 May 2006. From 26-29 May �The Turnberry Centenary Concerts, presented by Glenfiddich� will feature the very best in Scottish and International music. Held on the lawn in front of the hotel, Turnberry will be transformed into an amphitheatre, seating up to a thousand guests. www.westin.com/turnberry Contact Sarah Moreira at sarah.moreira@starwoodhotels.com

Leger Holidays

Leger Holidays, providers of European experience-led holidays, has been voted the Best Coach Holiday Operator to France at the Maison de la France British Travel Trade Awards 2006. Contact Adrian Johnson at adrian@lucrecommunications.com.

Oxfordshire and Kent

Farmers and owners of land and woodland can learn how to increase their income at free seminars to be held in Oxfordshire and Kent next month. Contact Jodie Hodge at jhodge@tourismse.com.

Turkey

Turkey specialist, Exclusive Escapes, has unveiled an updated and extended web site at www.hiddenturkey.com which contains over 5,000 new images of the �Hidden Turkey� 2006 programme. The images are designed to give guests an accurate portrayal of each region, activity, property and room before actually choosing their holiday, and the web site is believed to contain far more images than any other UK tour operator. Contact Fliss Hoad at felicity.hoad@btinternet.com.

Warwick Castle

Warwick Castle has unveiled is of events and entertainment programme for 2006. Annalisa Hoadley at ahoadley@freerangecommunications.co.uk

Glasgow Film Festival

The second Glasgow Film Festival takes place from 16 to 26 February. Contact Tony Harding at Tony.Harding@visitscotland.com.

Reef and rainforest tours

Reef and Rainforest Tours, the luxury tour operator specialising in exotic long haul destinations for lovers of wildlife and nature, has issued its latest Escorted Group Tours brochure for 2006/2007. Contact Jovanka Ristich at ristichj@aol.com.

SAS Birmingham

The new Radisson SAS Hotel, Birmingham has opened bringing to ten the total of Radisson SAS hotels in the UK. The 211-room hotel is spread over the first 18 floors of the 39-storey, 400ft Beetham Tower � a curved structure sheathed in turquoise and clear glass and the tallest residential building in the UK outside London. Contact Natasha Rhymes at natasha.rhymes@rezidorsas.com.

Frankfurt

Rocco Forte Hotels is to open the Villa Kennedy in Frankfurt on 1 March 2006. Villa Kennedy will be the first of Rocco Forte Hotels� three German properties. Contact Nicole Mitchell at nicolemitchell@rfhotels.com.

South Africa South Africa�s first Angsana Spa has opened in the historic Vineyard Hotel & Spa in Cape Town. Contact Stewart Banner at stewart@vineyard.co.za.

Le M�ridien Piccadilly

Le M�ridien Piccadilly, London, has opened its new health club with one of the largest indoor heated swimming pools in London and seven state-of-the-art treatment rooms. www.lemeridien.com/london Contact Sarah Moreira at sarah.moreira@starwoodhotels.com

Gatwick Express

Gatwick Express has been voted the number train operating company (TOC) in the UK for a record fifth time over the past two and a half years. Contact Rachel Forster at rachel@communicationmatters.co.uk.

Australia

Australia is the UK�s most popular long haul destination according tailor-made holiday specialist, Travelbag. Contact Martin Petts at mpetts@bgb.co.uk.

Egypt

The Abu Tig marina at El Gouna is one of the most attractive marina locations in Egypt. Contact Laura Shelbourne at lshelbourne@bigpragency.com.

City Inn

City Inn, the privately owned group of contemporary hotels led by Sandy and David Orr, with hotels in London, Bristol, Birmingham and Glasgow, has been awarded �Best Business Hotel Brand 2006� at the annual Business Travel World Awards. Flora Gandolfo at flora@rochecom.com]

The Bahamas

The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism (BMOT) has launched its �My Bahamas� publicity campaign to encourage citizens to take part in tourism. The campaign will encourage involvement in social, economic and environmental activities that will enhance the destination and result in sustainable economic benefits for every Bahamian, from hotelier to hair braider.

Gloucestershire

Leeds based QHotels has increased their portfolio of hotels to seven with the acquisition of the Cheltenham & Gloucester Moat House Hotel, Gloucestershire. Contact Alex Rose at Alex@lucrecommunications.com.

� Storyboard

Paxos

Planos Holidays, the UK tour operator to the Ionian island of Paxos, has added a collection of apartments and a large detached villa to its range of accommodation for couples and families seeking a peaceful holiday on a tranquil Greek island. Contact Karen Outred at ko@freelancepr.fsnet.co.uk.

Raffles Resort Canouan Island

Raffles Resort Canouan Island, the only resort in the Caribbean with its own private jet, has launched its Jet Package for 2006, promising guests the most stylish transfers in the Caribbean. Contact Kate Chesshyre at kchesshyre@prco.org.

South Africa

The Blue Train in South Africa is celebrating its 60th Birthday in March 2006. This famous icon of South Africa offers travellers a way of experiencing some of the country�s most spectacular scenery, while being pampered and spoilt. Contact Claire Roadley at claire@ethosmarketing.co.uk.

Grenada

Specialist tour operator, Just Grenada, is offering private cookery classes, art courses, personal yoga and T�ai Chi lessons and spa treatments at the brand new Maca Bana Villas. These are situated 15 minutes from Grenada�s capital, St George�s, overlooking the mile-long stretch of white sand at Magazine Beach. Contact Karen Outred at ko@freelancepr.fsnet.co.uk.

Hobart

The Tasmanian capital of Hobart, once known for its apple warehouses and brutal convict heritage, is rapidly gaining acclaim as one of Australia�s leading gourmet centres with a growing profusion of restaurants and cafes. The city offers a wide variety of outstanding seafood and quality produce from the island�s fertile soils, washed down by award-winning cool climate wines. Salamanca Market is a must-do on a Saturday, just to feel the buzz of the city�s chefs, restaurateurs and locals as they select the seasonal produce � much of which is organic and all of which is GM-free, by law. Contact Jovanka Ristich at ristichj@aol.com

Flamenco dance and guitar holidays Duende Flamenco is offering a series Flamenco dance or guitar breaks in the capital city of Flamenco, Sevilla, Andalucia. Contact duendeflamenco@aol.co.uk

Bird watching

Specialist travel agency WildWings provide escorted and out of the ordinary itineraries for bird watchers. It possible to spend a whole year bird watching around the globe with WildWings. Contact Debra Taylor at debra@toucanmoon.com.

Scotland

There�s the chance to climb a remote Scottish peak or walk a Highland hill on two dedicated courses organised and supervised by an ex-Commando. The spectacular and rugged Torridon area in Wester Ross is one of the UK�s premier areas for outdoor activities and Torridon Activities, provides the chance to tackle everything from kayaking on the nearby sea loch to climbing the famous Liathach. Contact Caroline Keith at caroline@thekeithconsultancy.co.uk. Slovenia

Specialist tour operator, Just Slovenia, is offering two new holidays for families looking for pristine alpine scenery. Families can stay on an authentic working farm where they�ll enjoy all the fun of helping with the animals. Alternatively, holidays close to Lake Bohinj, Slovenia�s largest lake, provide ample opportunities to try out a number of water sports and other outdoor activities. Contact Karen Outred at ko@freelancepr.fsnet.co.uk.

San Francisco

CrabFest, San Francisco�s fourth annual tribute to the delights of Dungeness crab runs to 28 February 2006 with Fisherman�s Wharf the main venue for activities. Contact Laurie Armstrong at LArmstrong@sfcvb.org.

Scotland

Piccolo Walking Tours are staging an eight-day Scottish walking trip (4 to 12 August 2006) which takes in the most scenic parts of Scotland including Royal Deeside, Perthshire, the West Coast and the Isle of Skye. The tour, which will be led by Scottish wildlife artist and naturalist James Renny also includes charming hotels, superb seafood, and lively Scottish music. Contact Gillian Arthur at piccolotours@virgilio.it.

St. Kitts Music Festival

Jamaican artist, Culture and Morgan Heritage are set to perform during the St. Kitts Music Festival, which runs from 29 June to 2 July 2006. Contact Esther C Smith at esther.smith@stkittstourism.kn.

New Zealand

The new luxury expedition vessel, Oceanic Princess is now sailing along New Zealand�s coastline and Bridge & Wickers www.bridgeandwickers.co.uk the tailor made specialist for Down Under is introducing voyages to satisfy this new demand from discerning British cruise-goers. Contact Julia Spence PR at julia.spence@ukonline.co.uk.

South Africa

Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve is one of the best places in South Africa to spot the notoriously elusive leopard - and enjoy one of four lodges. Contact Claire Roadley at claire@ethosmarketing.co.uk.

Salzburg

The 250th anniversary of Mozart's birthday on the 27 January heralds the start of the Year of Mozart in his native city of Salzburg. The opening of the new Mozart Museum launched a packed calendar of events ranging from lunchtime concerts to evening recitals in the fortress. This year's Salzburg Festival (24 July to 31 August) will showcase all 24 of Mozart's operas. All of his string quartets will be performed on selected dates between February and October in his former residence. Contact Rachel Goldrick at Rachel.Goldrick@Headwater.com.

Cornwall

From late February the Gardens of Cornwall will begin their Celebration of Spring, the county�s show of camellias and magnolias, which herald the early onset of spring. Throughout spring the Gardens of Cornwall become a riot of perfume and colour, a real feast for the senses. With some gardens opening only for the spring months it�s an opportunity to explore a few of the more exotic and unusual gardens and wooded valleys. www.gardensofcornwall.com Contact Laura Griffiths at laura.griffiths@adpr.co.uk.

� Reasons to write about

Lugenda Bush Camp - Northern Mozambique

Mozambique evokes images of endless stretches of white sand and aqua-marine waters filled with tropical fish writes Claire Roadley. But it also offers a fantastic safari experience.

June 2006 will see the next phase of Rani Resorts� US$120m with the opening of Lugenda Bush Camp.

This new lodge will comprise four luxury East-African style tents with the emphasis on its exclusivity, its personalised service and its remote wilderness location. In fact, the reserve contains the largest concentration of wildlife in the country.

The camp is located on the eastern bank of the Lugenda River in the Lugenda Wildlife Reserve, in the Cabo Delgado province of Northern Mozambique - an untouched and undiscovered 45 000 square kilometer expanse of land teeming with wildlife.

The area is well-suited to game drives and game walks directed by qualified guides. It is also a birders� paradise where big game abounds and also offers world-class rock climbs for the beginner and pro alike.

The Serra Mecula, a mountain of similar proportion to Table Mountain in South Africa, is positioned across from the camp - and is home to sacred sites and Batwa (Pigmy) paintings, possibly dating back 4 000 years.

Due to the rainy season in the area, Lugenda Bush Camp will be operational from mid-May to the end of November each year. It will have its own airstrip for fly-in access from Pemba International Airport only.

Contact Claire claire@ethosmarketing.co.uk

St Kitts

There are so many reasons to write about St Kitts writes Karen Outred including

� horse back riding into the tropical rainforest in search of the green vervet monkey;

� hiking to the top of dormant volcano, Mount Liamuiga, 3,792 feet above sea level, and look down into its bubbling crater

� riding the scenic railway that connects the island�s sugar plantations, enjoying ocean and mountain views

� touring Brimstone Hill Fortress, the only man-made UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Eastern Caribbean

� enjoying the Georgian architecture of the capital Basseterre, as well as 17th century churches and plantation houses

� visiting to visit Romney Manor, once home to the Jeffersons, whose grandson became US President

� scuba diving among the 400 wrecks and other dive sites, enjoying the likes of coral grottoes and drops of almost 200 feet, plus lobster, sting ray, lizard fish and nurse shark

� fishing for mackerel, snapper, kingfish, mahi-mahi, wahoo and barracuda on a deep sea fishing trip

� to try out other water sports including wind surfing, kayaking, waterskiing, snorkelling, catamaran sailing and jet skiing, as well as horse

� riding, golf, shopping, tennis, gourmet dining, gaming at St. Kitts� exclusive casino or relaxing on one of the island�s sandy beaches, and

� fine dining: St Kitts is known for its top quality cuisine with The Royal Palm at Ottley�s Plantation among the best.

And Nevis including :

� the largest collection of Nelson memorabilia in the western hemisphere and to visit the silk cotton tree where the Admiral married Fanny Nisbet

� the curative properties of the thermal waters at the Old Bath Hotel

� visiting visit beautifully-restored plantation inns built in the 18th century, including Hermitage Plantation, home to the oldest wooden structure in the Caribbean, dating back to the 1600�s

� stepping into history at the Nevisian Heritage Village, where replicas of houses date back to the Carib Indian era

� taking a guided snorkelling trip with a marine biologist, who gives visitors a hands-on journey through her marine laboratory

� going in search of some of the 126 bird species which live on and visit the island

� spotting humpback whales between January and March, and pilot, sperm, fin, sei and minke whales all year round

� watching horse racing, Caribbean style, at the Indian Castle Race Track, complete with carnival atmosphere, music and barbeques

� climbing to the top of Nevis Peak, 3,232 feet above sea level and get a bird�s eye view of the island known as the Queen of the Caribees

� sampling a Killer Bee rum punch at Sunshine�s Bar on Pinney�s Beach.

Contact Karen Outred at ko@freelancepr.fsnet.co.uk.

The Utopia Spa at Alexander House

The Utopia Spa at Alexander House is set to become one of the UK�s leading destination spas writes Helen Foster.

The Spa is situated within Alexander House, a magnificent 17th Century country house hotel nestled in over 170 acres of beautifully manicured gardens and parkland and 45 minutes outside central London.

The Spa has 25 state-of-the-art treatment rooms, including double therapy rooms, where partners and friends can enjoy side-by-side treatments. .

Pony trekking and mountain biking, a daily changing timetable of fitness classes such as power walking, yoga and pilates will be available and while walking and jogging tracks have also been created throughout the grounds of Alexander House.

Contact Helen Foster at helen@ahpr.co.uk.

Whale Watching

Off Gibraltar

Watch the migration of whales and dolphins from the warm waters of the Mediterranean to the colder Atlantic on Explore's 'Journey into Barbary'. (www.explore.co.uk)

Whales and wildflowers in South Africa

Thriving populations of Southern Right Whales and Humpbacks converge on the warm coastal waters of South Africa's Western Cape to mate and calve. The coastal town of Hermanus, just 75 miles east of Cape Town, gives visitors the best chance of spotting one of these majestic mammals. (www.kirkerholidays.com

Whale Watch in Kaikoura

Maori people have a spiritual connection to the whale and the Maori-owned enterprise, Whale Watch in New Zealand's Kaikoura, is a staunch ally of the marine conservation movement. It takes people to visit whales in their natural environment, including Sperm whales, Humpback whales (June & July), Orcas (summer months), New Zealand's own tiny Hectors dolphin, the Dusky dolphins, New Zealand Fur seals and the Royal Albatross. (www.whalewatch.co.nz

Watch Whales in Waters Worldwide with AITO

From Alaska to South Africa to Oceania, the Association of Independent Tour Operators (AITO) provides the chance to watch your choice of whale in any of the world's seas. With over 35 specialist tour operators offering whale-watching packages, AITO members offer opportunities to view these awesome mammals throughout the world. www.aito.co.uk

Whales in the Land of the Midnight Sun

Passengers can expect to see Orca whales, seals and colourful birdlife on Voyages of Discovery's 10-night voyage to the Norwegian fjords. (www.voyagesofdiscovery.com

Hermanus

Hermanus, with its wild and wonderful coastline, is one of the world's prime whale-watching spots from August through to November. Located just a few hours' drive from cosmopolitan Cape Town and from the beautiful Wine Region, the three centres combine perfectly to create a trip full of contrast and culture. www.expertafrica.com

Contact Ian Bradley at I.Bradley@travelpr.co.uk

Madeira

Madeira is becoming increasingly popular with younger travellers and families writes Claire Roadley.

This is thanks to its year-round warm weather, its fabulous golf courses, incredible gardens and the surprisingly wide range of activities on offer to keep even the most adventurous of tourists occupied.

Activities on offer include island tours, levada walks, garden tours, mountain walking, scuba diving, big game fishing, dolphin sight-seeing cruises, surfing and guided 4x4 trails. The Island has also been named one of the safest destinations in the world as it is virtually crime-free.

One of the best places to base yourself while exploring this volcanic island is the 200-year old Casa Velha Do Palheiro Hotel, which was once an early 19th Century hunting lodge, before being acquired by the Blandy family (who are also famous for their Madeira wines) in 1885. This 5 star �Relais & Chateaux� country house hotel offers indulgent luxury - complemented by personalised service and gourmet cuisine.

Contact Claire Roadley at claire@ethosmarketing.co.uk

Great spas in Florida

Florida boasts a number of spas offering the ultimate pampering experience of rejuvenation and relaxation writes Danjo Thompson.

Omni Orlando Resort

Kissimmee is proud as punch of its newly completed �175m Omni Orlando Resort at Champions Gate. The resort includes a 10,000 sq ft spa that promises to help work out sore muscles after a long day on the links, offering an impressive array of unique treatments. www.omnihotels.com

The Shores Resort

The four-star Spa Terre & Fitness Centre opened in June 2005, and has been lavishly praised ever since. In the midst of hectic Daytona Beach the Spa exists solely to promote health and well being for mind body and soul. www.shoreresort.com

Registry resort

Nestled in beautiful Naples, the Registry Resort & Club is home to the elegant spa, The Sanctuary. The Zen-inspired spa has been open for just over a year, but has already earned a reputation for quality. www.registryresort.com

Papillon the Spa

Papillon the Spa in Orlando is Westgate Lakes' showcase for the ultimate in relaxation, rejuvenation and renewal. The signature deep-kneading massage and the Moor Mud Detoxifying Body Wrap are among the many services on offer at the 10,000 sq ft haven of relaxation. www.papillon-spa.com

Cheeca Lodge

The Florida Keys boasts a luxury spa in Islamorada, just an hour's drive south of Miami. The Avanyu Spa at Cheeca Lodge offers gentle indulgence beneath the tropical splendour of swaying palms. www.theatlantichotelfortlauderdale.com

Marco Island Marriott Resort

Head west to experience a spa-ritual retreat at this 24,000 sq ft luxury spa, a part of the award winning Marco Island Marriott Resort. Located beside three miles of pristine sandy beach, the spa is a genuine retreat from the world. www.marcoislandmarriott.com

The Spa at Ritz Carlton Amelia Island

Amelia Island is in the Northeast of Florida, overlooking the azure blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Intracoastal Waterway to the west. The Spa features 25 individual treatment rooms offering massage, hydrotherapy, reflexology, facials, peels, herbal wraps, manicures, pedicures and other salon services, all designed to pamper and please. www.spaamelia.com

Mandarin Oriental

The Mandarin Oriental is unique in Miami for being awarded AAA five-diamond award for four consecutive years. The 15,000 sq ft award-winning spa enjoys an uninterrupted view of Miami bay, with its 17 private treatment rooms having all the makings of the ultimate escape - luxury, tranquillity and absolute calm. www.mandarinoriental.com

Little Palm Island Resort & Spa

Just off the shore of Little Torch Key lies the exclusive Little Palm Island Resort & Spa, accessible only by boat or seaplane. Quietly tucked away from the world, the resort is a tranquil paradise where the swaying palms and gentle turquoise surf lapping against the white sand beaches will lull you into the ultimate relaxation. www.littlepalmisland.com

Contact Danjo Thompson at danjo@kbc-pr.com.

Riga, Latvia

Temperatures in Riga may drop below � 20C in winter but as long as you�re well prepared it needn�t be a problem writes Eva Staltmane.

With the right clothes - woollen hat, scarf, a pair of gloves, a warm coat and boots � there�s nothing to stop you enjoying the city to the full.

Public transport, catering and entertainment establishments, museums, concert halls, the national opera and shops all take the cold snap in their stride. And even when the thermometer is at its lowest, Riga�s nightspots remain some of Europe�s hottest.

If you do need to warm up on your tour of Riga, why not stop for a Hot Balzams?

This 40% proof local speciality is mixed with hot blackcurrant juice to create a delicious winter warmer.

Alternatively, chocolate lovers can nip into one of the Emils Gustavs chocolate cafes to defrost over a cup of indulgent hot, rich chocolate.

Latvia is also experiencing a boom in hotel construction, with much of the activity centred on Riga and its seaside resort, Jurmala.

The new Hotel Monika Centrum, situated in a prestigious district of downtown Riga, it is only 10 minutes� walk from the Old Town and even closer to the popular Art Nouveau district.

Hotel Domina Inn with its 110 rooms is an architecturally stunning building, located within the Art Nouveau District.

Hotel Alberts is a moderately-priced modern hotel in a quiet part of the city, yet close to Riga�s commercial centre.

The Hotel Tomo is a new three star conference hotel just off the main Brivibas Street, about 10 minutes� drive from the Old Town.

The Amber Spa Hotel Jurmala is a total reconstruction of the former Via Jurmala Hotel. Scheduled to open this spring, it will offer 80 rooms including some with kitchenettes, conference rooms and a modern spa. Amber Spa is located at the center of Jurmala � Dzintari, only 80 meters from the beach.

Contact Eva Staltmane at eva.s@btconnect.com

� Flight lines Austrian Airlines

Austrian will commence flights to Erbil in Kurdish, Northern Iraq, from 9 March 2006. Austrian will be the first European carrier offering services to Iraq with flights operating up to three times per week with connections from the UK. Contact Melanie Grubb at melanie.grubb@virgin.net

Iceland Express

Iceland Express � the low fares carrier to Iceland � in conjunction with Cheapflights.co.uk has announced the start of a �1,000 seat� seat-sale to Reykjavik. Contact Paul Argyle at pargyle@flightdirectors.com.

Jet2.com

Jet2.com, the North's low cost airline, has announced its 30th destination - Newcastle International Airport to Bergen, and sixth from Newcastle. Contact Adrian Johnson at adrian@lucrecommunications.com.

Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airlines will be flying daily between London Heathrow and Adelaide, South Australia�s capital city, from 27 March. It is the only international airline to do so. Contact Jovanka Ristich, at ristichj@aol.com

Scandinavian Airlines

Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) has announced a new route from London City Airport to the Swedish capital of Stockholm. SAS will be operating the route on an aircraft leased from the Swedish airline Transwede. Contact Catherine Huffer at catherine.huffer@fourplc.com

Adria Airways

Slovene national airline Adria Airways increased the number of flights by seven percent and carried 944, 288 passengers on its 20,122 flights during 2005. Contact Ljerka Zupancic at ljerka.zupancic@adria.si

Aer Lingus

Aer Lingus has announced six new routes from Dublin and Cork. From June and launch services from Cork to Berlin and Birmingham (three times a week) and Tenerife (weekly). It will also flights to its routes to Alicante, Amsterdam, Malaga, Nice, Rome and Warsaw. From Dublin, Poznan is added twice weekly from 28 March. Visit www.aerlingus.com

Blue 1

Finish airline Blue 1is to fly into Stansted for the first time from 26 March. Visit www.blue1.com

Sky Commuter

Sky Commuter will introduce twice daily services between the Oxford and Cambridge from February. Visit : www.skycommuter.com

Air Turquoise

Air Turquoise will start direct daily flights to Rheims, in the heart of the French Champagne region, from Luton Airport on 28 March 2006. Contact Ian Briggs at Ian.Briggs@ltn.aero.

Qatar Airways

Birmingham is to be linked non-stop to Doha from 26 March with Qatar Airways is starting a four times per week service to Doha, capital of the Gulf area state of Qatar, from Birmingham from 26 March. www.qatarairways.com

Iberia

Iberia has introduced a daily return flight between Heathrow and La Coru�a the most northwesterly airport in Spain. www.iberia.com

Jet2.com

Low Cost airline Jet2.com starts flights from Newcastle to Tenerife from October. Contact Daniel Connell at Dan@lucrecommunications.com.

� The next issue

The next issue of the CIoJ Travel Writers� bulletin will be out in March 2006. Send your contributions to ashley@williamjack.co.uk.

The CIoJ Travel Writers Bulletin is produced by Ashley Gibbins, WilliamJack Worldwide.