Skills Departure Lounge Magazine Spring 2015

Lounge departure

Spring Edition | Published February 2015 | FREE COPY

Spring Edition

Welcome...

magazine

easter escapes

NEW Kent ft Call the Midwife Tour and more destinations available (see p4)

Welcome to the ‘Spring’ edition of our Departure Lounge magazine.

movie magic

Back again, this month our aim is to put the ‘Spring’ back into your step with offer’s fresher than hot cross buns straight out of the oven!

HARRY POTTER We go behind the scenes with staff as we explore Warner Brother’s Studio Tour (see p2)

Inside we have a catch up with Skills Group Chairman Nigel Skill, we discover what he’s been up to since we last spoke, what he likes most about spring and more importantly his opinions on pancakes!

party highlights REVIEW We review the party break highlights for 2015 (see p3)

This spring there really is something for everyone to see and explore from the country to the coast to city escapes with Skills.

mums

the word

With Mother’s day on the horizon we have a selection of marvellous days out, breaks and getaways featured on page 3. We have also taken all the hard work out of thinking and carefully selected a variety of gift ideas perfectly designed to say ‘Thank you’ to that very special person. Why not enjoy a break together this Mother’s day, let us whisk you away as you embark on an enchanting getaway, or share in WIN £25: Each month we’re the fun and laughter with the family looking for the best ‘Skills Selfie’ photos with you or your on an adventure somewhere new! friends, either on our tour, on our coaches or with our staff You’ll also discover eggcellent Easter events, with a choice of new, and drivers. To enter, email your faithful favourites and ‘eggciting’ photos to selfie@skills.co.uk destinations all hand-picked for you, or upload to our facebook page featuring on page 4. and send in a message with your contact details. We’re looking So hop on board for an adventure for fun and creative photos, plus with Skills in 2015. you need to ensure you get the Skills logo in the picture to stand Contact us: Send in your holiday the best chance of winning a ideas, stories, photos or tell us what £25 Skills Voucher to be used on you think to the Magazine or how our coach holidays. we can improve it.

T&Cs apply, by sending your photo’s in to us you consent for your images to be used and published in Email enquiry@skills.co.uk our future marketing materials both online and in print.

Looking for a special gift this Mother’s Day? (see p3)

Photo Competition

Winners will be annouced in the next edition.

£25

WIN

special events

Don’t miss out on our top choice of special events in 2015 (see p5)

Each month the be st Skills Selfie

Turn to the back page to find out who won in Nov, Dec & Jan ARE YOU A WINNER?

spring into summer...

We have got some fantastic ideas for your Spring into Summer holiday destinations (see p4 onwards)

book your holiday today: departures available from nottinghamshire & derybyhire Sign up to our mail list to get our NEW holiday brochures, call 0845 666 5544 or visit Skills.co.uk Skills Travel Shops: Skills Travel & Laver Holidays Nottingham - 3-3a Mansfield Road, NG1 3FB | Skills Holidays: Bulwell - Skills Head Office, Belgrave Road, Bulwell, NG6 8LY; Skills Worldwide Travel: Beeston - 104 Chilwell Road, Beeston, NG9 1ES | Laver Holidays: Derby, Unit 24BCD, Eagle Centre Market, Derby, DE1 2AZ Laver Holidays: Loughborough, 25 Swan St, Loughborough, Leicester LE11 5BL Tours operated by Skills Holidays and Coachstyle. Prices are per person based on two people sharing a twin room (standard inside twin cabin if applicable) and are subject to availability. NIL single room supplements are limited. Terms & Conditions apply.

Please call 0845 666 5544 or visit www.skills.co.uk for details. All credit card transactions are subject to a 2.5% charge Head Office: Belgrave Road, Bulwell, Nottingham, NG6 8LY. VAT Reg. No. 660 5538 34 | Skills Travel Limited trading as Skills Holidays, CoachStyle and Skills Days Out company reg in England. No.546349. Registered Office: the white house, Claridon Street, Nottingham NG1 5GF. For Laver Holidays Terms & Conditions see www.Laverholidays.co.uk or see the holiday brochure.

Movie Magic...

Harry Potter Studio Tour Nigel Skill Chairman

As Chairman of the Skills Group I’d like to wish you all a very happy New Year and I am pleased to welcome you all back to the spring edition of our ‘Departure Lounge Magazine.’

New for 2015 is our brochure full of 138 top destinations, some of which are featured inside this magazine. Look out for our special Easter breaks and a range of special events throughout the year. Also we have a few members of new staff that I’d like to welcome; new to the office are Chris Drury, Helen Heyhoe and Darren Crichley in operations, all are helping us to cope with the wide growth and expansion of the business.

After a sleepless night on a bleak, cold morning in January Rachael was already bursting with excitement, gleaming from ear to ear she was finally going to go on an experience of her lifetime! After months of anticipation her and her boyfriend boarded the coach at around 8am destined for the Warner Brothers Studio’s and the Harry Potter tour.

News for 2015 is that we’d like to thank all who attended the party breaks. It was another great year with great memories shared. We are now looking ahead for a successful 2015. There is also lots of exciting things happening with bookings which are looking very good for 2015.

Bewildered, Rachael dotted around in the main area of the tour; “It’s amazing, there is so much there and so much to do” Filled with marvellous original artefacts, animatronic creatures and original sets from the film series you are free to explore, take a ride on a broomstick, fly in the Weasley’s car and enjoy the experience at your own leisure.

What have you been up too since we last spoke?

We’ve had a successful and busy Christmas, and of course the party breaks which I consider to be a great success, it was a fantastic night where over 30 staff members mingled and introduced themselves to our customers, it is increasing in popularity with both our staff and customers. It was also really nice for me to have my mum and my nephew there; having the three generations of my family there was very special.

What is your favourite thing about Spring?

Spring is a wonderful time of the year, I enjoy the longer nights, the spring flowers, green leaves, the slightly warmer temperatures and most of all I love being able to go for a run in the morning and it not being dark.

More importantly, what’s your opinion on pancakes?

I love them, I usually have them with syrup and freshly squeezed oranges, but I’m not opposed to chocolate spread! There are some wonderful pancakes in Europe, especially Belgium.

2

Photo: Rachael Askwith©

After a brief introduction, the grand doors were opened and Rachael took her first steps into the Great Hall; “It was fascinating, everything was just how you’d imagine.”

Once you have soaked up the dramatic atmosphere - and taken a few selfie’s with Dumbledore and Hagrid who are sitting at the head table, you are then led through another door to the left, where the tour gets “even better.”

“After the main room you think it’s finished, but then you go outside and onto Harry Potter’s street, and later on you walk down actual Diagon Alley, I couldn’t stop smiling it was the best day ever!”

Especially forMum! Mother’s day no longer has to be bound to just a Sunday anymore. This year, with so many destinations to pick from you really can spoil the lady in your life – that doesn’t mean you can ditch the flowers completely though!

Start early and join us in ‘Cotswolds & Bath’ from Saturday 7th March from £75pp. This 2 day break is filled with character, romance and magic as we take you to Bourton on-the-water, typically referred to as ‘the Venice of the Cotswolds’ thanks to its entwining River Windrush which runs through the centre, before returning to Bath, a customer favourite, famous for its Roman charm and unique shopping opportunities.

Instead of just watching the television, let Skills Holidays take you there. We are offering a selection of weekend breaks to ‘Kent Featuring Call the Midwife Tour’ from 6th April (see p4), giving you intimate access to Chatham Docks for a guided themed tour that takes you on the locational

highlights of the popular TV series which featured the award winning Miranda Hart and Vanessa Redgrave. Or step onto the acclaimed cobbles of Coronation Street, with tours being extended until the end of the year don’t miss your opportunity to follow in the footsteps of some of the best characters the street has seen! Making these tours perfect for your TV addict.

For an extra special way to say ‘I love you’, Skills have a selection of weekend and day’s out to the world famous, extra glamorous Ladies day at Ascot on the 17th & 18th June from £63pp.

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

Tours operated by Skills Holidays and Coachstyle. Prices are per person based on two people sharing a twin room (standard inside twin cabin if applicable) and are subject to availability. NIL single room supplements are limited. Terms & Cond

A big thankyou...

It’s the morning after the Coachstyle annual party break and after a fantastic night of dancing, air guitar impressions and celebrating we’re joined with friends old and new downstairs at the grand Adelphi Hotel in Liverpool, everybody is asking “When’s the next one!” and chatting, smiling, laughing and joking together, mainly about the night before.

Luckily for us the Skills annual party break was only a couple of weekends after, this time set in Chester at the stylish Queen Hotel, after a delightfully appetizing three course meal we had the chance to meet, greet and catch up with you all over again, laughing over drinks and discussing all things frivolous Chairman Nigel Skill attended the Coachstyle Party Break and Director Pete Hallam attended both Skills and Coachstyle Party breaks. The Skill’s team were joined by familiar faces, groups of people sharing in birthdays, anniversaries or just looking for a night out with a difference and a chance to explore somewhere new.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all our staff and customers who chose to share these two very fantastic nights with us, making 2015 our most successful party breaks yet.

Rachael and Gemma from the Coachstyle and Skills Holidays product team have already started making big plans for next year’s Party Breaks and without giving too much away keep your diaries free in January 2016 and join us to celebrate our 97th year!

Mother’s Day Gift Ideas COTSWOLDS & BATH - 7th March 2 days from £75pp An area of outstanding beauty, the Cotswolds is filled with sleepy idyllic villages, sweeping valleys and beautiful landscapes. Prepare to fall in love with some of the best that Britain has to offer with scenic countryside and stunning architecture on this weekend break.

INCLUDES: 1 night dinner, bed & breakfast staying at the 3 star Holiday Inn Express in Swindon; Excursions to Bourton-on-the-Water and Bath.

4 STAR SPA BREAK - 24th April & 13th June 2 days from £89 Stunning countryside and landscaped gardens surround this 4 star spa hotel where you can enjoy this indulgent spa weekend

LADIES DAY AT ROYAL ASCOT - 18th June Day Trip from £63pp (Silver Ring) Day Trip from £109pp (Grandstand) The Gold Cup combines style and elegance at the height of the summer social calendar.

Also known as Ladies Day this exclusive event is not to be missed. A huge favourite year after year early booking is definitely recommended.

INCLUDES: Return coach travel to Royal Ascot for free time and entrance.

We depart approx 6pm for the journey home.

full of pampering, relaxation and retail therapy.

INCLUDES: 1 night dinner, bed and breakfast at the 4 star Mercure Grange Hotel and Spa in Rochdale; Free time to use hotel facilities; Free time in Manchester to explore. *Pre-bookable Treatments also available from £22pp, call for more details*

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

ditions apply. Please call 0845 666 5544 , visit www.skills.co.uk for or refer to our brochures for full details or terms and conditions. All credit card transactions are subject to a 2.5% charge. For Laver Holidays T&Cs please visit www.laverholidays.co.uk.

3

Egg-cellent Breaks

Now the parties are over and the cleaning is finished, we can finally begin to look forward to a quick chocolate pick-me-up or maybe a hot cross bun as we move into Spring.

With Easter in mind we have the perfect selection of destinations featured for you to explore spring with Skills. With a choice of three ‘egg-quisite’ Easter breaks from country to the coast we’ve got something for everyone. Release your inner Charlie Dimmock this spring and join us in 121 hectors of blooming beautiful floral displays as they flourish into bloom, join us for the Bluebell’s and Orchids at Kew from the 18th April.

Unfortunately Leonardo Dicaprio won’t be popping out of your Easter egg this year, but come and experience the Legend of the Titanic during its special anniversary period when RMS Titanic sank on 15th April, it’s the perfect time to commemorate and remember!

Finally, NEW for 2015, we introduce Kent “Call the Midwife Tour” this themed tour takes you on the locational highlights of the popular TV series which featured Miranda Hart and Vanessa Redgrave making this the perfect place for any TV addict.

BELFAST

& THE LEGEND OF THE TITANIC Join us for an unforgettable break to one of Europe’s most vibrant cities. We visit the Titanic Exhibition which follows the ships construction and then tragic loss, using original material along with vintage photographs, recordings, news reel & music you can experience the atmosphere of days gone by. We also visit the Titanic Dock and Pump House, Titanic’s physical footprint in history followed by a guided tour of Belfast.

Includes

Return ferry sailing 3 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast Entrance to the Titanic Belfast Entrance to the Titanic Dock & Pump House Two hour guided tour of Belfast

Hotel hhhh

Park Avenue Hotel

Located just 2 miles from Belfast City Hall, the Park Avenue Hotel is a stylish hotel with luxury accommodation.

KENT Featuring

‘Call THE MIDWIFE TOUR’

4 days from £299

Hotel hhhh

Mercure Maidstone, Maidstone Located in the heart of the ‘Garden of England’ and next to Leeds Castle makes a beautiful location for our 4 night stay.

4

Britain’s most popular holiday destination has an abundance of year round attractions and has been a firm favourite with holiday makers.

Includes

3 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast; Excursions to Lancaster; Free time in Blackpool; Sunday lunch; Easter egg; Nightly entertainment

Hotel

2 star minimum hotel

Convinently located for our holiday.

a welsh easter

COACHSTYLE ref: cbeb

departure date

Fri 03 April

during your stay

Day 1- To Holyhead for sailing across to Ireland.

Day 2- Visit Titanic Experience including the Titanic Dock & Pumphouse, now in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter the attraction is not only a stunning piece of architecture, but a six storey, state of the art, visitor experience. The museum sits beside the historic site of the ship’s construction and tells its fascinating and heartfelt story. Descend 44 feet into the bottom of the dry dock where the Titanic last sat on ground. Enter the Pump House and discover the beating heart of the ship yard. This afternoon we then enjoy a two hour guided coach tour of Belfast and its fascinating history.

Day 3 - Enjoy a guided tour of Belfast followed by an afternoon visit to the picturesque Giant’s Causeway.

Day 4 - We leave our hotel and return to Dublin for the afternoon ferry sailing home.

skills ref: Scti

departure date

Mon 13 April Tues 19 May

Route: f

days (from) s /supp

4 4

£299 £60 £299 £60

5 days from £239

NEW

NEW

SKILLS REF: SBKT Route: c days (from) s /supp

Mon 6 April, 28 Sep 5 Mon 3 Aug 5

COACHSTYLE ref: cbwe

Hotel hhh

departure date

Set in the beautiful Welsh countryside and with an emphasis of providing ‘home from home’.

Fri 03 April

Beaufort Park Hotel, Mold

easter in torquay

4 £169 NIL

Route: b

days (from) s /supp

4 £179 Nil

4 days from £159

Torquay is a special destination to visit at anytime of year and Easter is no different.

Includes

3 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast; Excursions to Brixham and Dartmouth; Free time in Torquay

Hotel

Seascape Hotel, Torquay

Phil, Jackie and Michelle welcome you to their comfortable and relaxed hotel, which is centrally positioned in Torquay.

BLUEBELLS & ORCHIDS

AT KEW FEATURING WINDSOR

Bluebells and Orchids have long been known to grow in the conservation area at Kew and are indicators of British ancient woodland. This time of year is a beautiful time to see the spring flowers in bloom in these wonderful, world famous, 121 hectare gardens.

COACHSTYLE ref: cbet

departure date

Fri 03 April

Route: c

days (from) s /supp

4 £159 NIL

2 days from £99

top ATTRACTION

ENTRANCE included TO KEW GARDENS

Includes

Day 1 - Departure by coach making our way to Kent for a four night stay. You are then free to use the many facilities the hotel has to offer before we have our evening meal.

Day 2 - We make our way to Chatham Docks where you will be greeted by a guide by the Second World War Destroyer HMS CAVALIER. The guide will take you on an hour and a half guided tour of the various film locations used in the hit BBC Drama ‘Call the Midwife’.

Day 3 - We make our way to Whitsable and spend the morning exploring this timelessly British seaside town then later to Margate.

Day 4 – Visit Canterbury. We enjoy a relaxing cruise through Canterbury’s Canal system.

Day 5 – After breakfast we bid a fond farewell. departure date

3 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Excursions to Chester, Rhyl, Snowdonia, Betws-Y-Coed and Bodnant Welsh Food.

Route: a

days (from) s /supp

4 days from £179

Includes

during your stay

4 nights’ dinner bed and breakfast Excursion as stated River Cruise Guided Midwife Tour & Entrance to Chatham Docks

4 days from £169

Expect beautiful scenery from the Snowdonia National Park, as we spend an Easter to remember in the exquisite Welsh countryside.

Enjoy Kent from countryside to coast on this fabulous 5 day break. Visiting Canterbury, Whitstable and Margate and the filming locations of the hit BBC Drama ‘Call the Midwife’ at Chatham Docks makes this an interesting and varied break away.

Includes

easter in blackpool

sell out in 2014

£239 CALL £249 CALL

1 night dinner, bed and breakfast Excursions as stated Entrance to Kew Gardens

Hotel hhh

Holiday Inn, Maidenhead Windsor

The 3-star Holiday Inn Maidenhead Windsor is set in a peaceful residential area and offers a warm welcome in the bright and airy lobby.

during your stay

Day 1 - Departure by coach we visit the Royal Borough of Windsor where you can visit some of its iconic attractions. Whilst there why not visit Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world or take a stroll around one of its many inspiring gardens.

Windsor is also a shopper’s paradise with plenty of your favourite high street stores sat alongside quaint little souvenir shops.

Day 2 - After breakfast we make our way to Kew Gardens which comprises of 121 hectares of gardens. Kew is world famous for its historic glasshouses, vistas and precious tree specimens not to mention its palace and landscapes.

skills ref: Sbok

departure date

Sat 18, Sat 25 April

Route: d

days (from) s/supp

2

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

£99 £19

Tours operated by Skills Holidays and Coachstyle. Prices are per person based on two people sharing a twin room (standard inside twin cabin if applicable) and are subject to availability. NIL single room supplements are limited.

Terms & Conditions apply. Please call 0845 666 5544 , visit www.skills.co.uk for or refer to our brochures for full details or terms and conditions. All credit card transactions are subject to a 2.5% charge.

Must See Special Events for 2015

Skills have got a selection of specialised breaks that promise to keep you enthralled, entertained and immersed so why not bookit with Skills in 2015 and let us share in your special occasion.

Join us with old friends and new friends alike on a stylish expedition to celebrate ‘St Patricks day in Ireland.’ This must do experience is suitable for everyone as we take you into Dublin to relish in the festivities, enjoy the parades and celebrate traditional Irish culture.

Start spring in style at some of the country’s most cherished, prestigious and independent flower shows including the ‘Harrogate Flower Show’ from £89pp and the world famous ‘Chelsea flower show’ from £145pp both perfect for that late Easter 2 day getaway.

Or why not board our excellent Mini Cruises from just £139pp, as we venture to ‘Keukenhof Gardens’ covering an impressive 30 hectares surrounded by beautiful Dutch tulips in the heart of Holland. The gardens are a marvellous celebration of all things spring with a magnificent, elegant and vibrant display filled with tulips, daffodils and other delightful flowers; just don’t forget to bring your camera!

‘Ostend at Anchor’ welcomes us in late spring as we join in the largest festival for authentic shipping in the North Sea, don’t get left behind and join Skills, over 250,000 visitors and scores of bands performing throughout the city as we explore all things maritime in this exclusive 5 day tour, a must see for 2015.

Returning in 2015 Skills are offering a mix of excellent excursions that even Jeremy Clarkson would be jealous of. We invite you and all car enthusiasts to join us at some of the largest, most exciting and invigorating motor sport festivals of the year starting with ‘Goodwood Festival of Speed’ on the 26th June and ‘Goodwood Revival’ on the 11th September. These two magnificent weekends starting from just £219pp bring together a heart-racing mix of cars, motor sport royalty and a celebration of the past, in the present and the historic estate of Goodwood.

Chelsea flower show 1 night dinner, bed and breakfast; Excursions; Entry & Free time at Chelsea Flower Show

st patrick’s day IN IRELAND Return ferry sailing; 3 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast; Free time in Dublin

goowood festival of sPEED

2 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast; Excursions to Oxford and Portsmouth; Entrance to Goodwood Festival of Speed

2 days from

£145 Wednesday 20 May

4 days from

£279 Monday 16 Mar

3 days from

£219 Friday 26 Jun

harrogate flower show 1 night dinner, bed and breakfast; Excursion to Leeds; Entrance to Harrogate Flower Show

ostend at Anchor “maritime event” 4 nights’ bed and breakfast; Excursions as stated

goowood revival

2 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast; Excursions to Oxford and Portsmouth; Entrance to the Goodwood Revival

2 days from

£89 Saturday 25 Apr

5 days from

£269 Wednesday 27 May

3 days

keukenhof gardenS MINI CRUISE 2 nights’ accommodation Excursion to Keukenhof Gardens

Ladies day at ROYAL ascot

1 night dinner, bed and breakfast; Excursions; Entrance into Silver Ring at Royal Ascot Ladies Day

from

THE ROYAL EDINBURGH MILITARY TATTOO

11 Sep

1 night dinner, bed and breakfast; 1 night bed and breakfast; Excursions; Entrance to the Edinburgh Tattoo

£219 Friday

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

3 days from

£139 Friday

10 & 17 Apr

2 days from

£119 Wednesday 17 Jun

3 days from

£209 Friday 07,

14, 21 Aug

Tours operated by Skills Holidays and Coachstyle. Prices are per person based on two people sharing a twin room (standard inside twin cabin if applicable) and are subject to availability. NIL single room supplements are limited.

Terms & Conditions apply. Please call 0845 666 5544 , visit www.skills.co.uk for or refer to our brochures for full details or terms and conditions. All credit card transactions are subject to a 2.5% charge

5

Spring into action and request the Summer Brochure!

Following on from the collaboration of both companies last year, Laver’s are excited to already be planning ahead for future tours and Festive retreats making 2015 the company’s biggest year yet.

So whether you want a lazy, luxurious week away in ‘Torquay & the English Riviera,’ a fabulous sight-seeing experience of ‘Surprising London’ or a trip of a life time to experience ‘Norway & the Northern Lights’ Lavers has something for everyone.

Lavers will be continuing to offer a world wide selection of We have featured a small selection, but if you would like to request cruise, air and rail services as well as a variety of their best ever a full copy of the 2015 brochure please do not hesitate to ask us. coach holidays, travelling to superb destinations across the United Kingdom.

With three Laver Holidays shops located within Loughborough, Nottingham and Derby, Laver customers can now also book The ‘Mature Singles’ package is back and specifically designed onto any Laver Holiday at Skills Holidays in Bulwell or Beeston, to cater for mature single travellers, allowing you to stay in giving you more convenience to join our tours in 2015. a single room at no extra cost and of course Lavers are still offering exclusive door to door pick up’s included on all 3 day or OUT NOW: Request the NEW Laver 2015 brochure, call our team on longer duration tours in 2015.

0845 666 5544 or 01509 236 500, visit us at one of our travel shops, visit LaverHolidays.co.uk or email enquiry@laverholidays.co.uk.

TOUR DIARY

grand tour of

southern ireland

On this quite unique tour we have set out to date destination

days from show you not just small areas of Southern 09-Mar The Stunning Yorkshire Dales 5 £374 Ireland, but to encompass in one ‘Grand 11-Mar Beautiful Cornish Gardens!

6 £465 Tour’, the very best of the entire country!

16-Mar Discovering Lancashire! 5 £434 Includes 27-Mar Wales on Rails!

4 £343 Luxury coach travel; 8 nights’ dinner, bed & 30-Mar Singles - Scarborough, Helmsley & Whitby 5 £354 breakfast; Return Ireland ferries; Guides in Kerry, Connemara & Dublin; Admissions &

excursions as described; Personal insurance 02-Apr Easter - Sidmouth & Lynmouth 5 £463 and our superb ‘Door-to-Door’ service!

03-Apr Easter - Great Little Trains of Wales 4 £373 during your stay 03-Apr Easter - The Wye Valley & More!

4 £343 Day 1 - We travel across Cheshire and North Wales 03-Apr Easter - Southend & The Cutty Sark 4 £333 to Anglesey and board the afternoon ferry to 03-Apr Our Easter Mystery Tour!

4 £280 Dublin. Our overnight hotel is nearby.

Day 2 - South from Dublin, we call at Kilkenny’s 06-Apr From Liverpool to Lakeland 5 £379 stunning riverside castle before continuing to our 09-Apr Perranporth & The Highlights of Cornwall 5 £389 second hotel in Waterford.

12-Apr Constable & Gainsborough Country 5 £399 Day 3 - We follow the south coast, through 13-Apr Singles - Loch Lomond & Arran 5 £479 Dungarvan and around the city of Cork for a lunchtime break at Blarney Castle. A beautiful ride 13-Apr A Shropshire Travelogue 5 £410 this afternoon, with glimpses of the Atlantic Ocean, 14-Apr Falmouth, St Ives & Eden Project 5 £384 to our third hotel near the town of Bantry.

20-Apr Singles- Snowdonia & Ffestiniog Railway 5 £394 Day 4 - We pay a visit to Bantry House, the most 20-Apr Delightful Durham Dales 5 £414 Hotels 23-Apr Hampton Court Palace & Wiltshire 5 £410 Contact us for full information 27-Apr Ness Gardens & Chirk Castle 5 £399 On this tour we feature a variety of hotels, 27-Apr Singles - Springtime in Eastbourne 5 £404 with varying facilities. A full list of hotels and 27-Apr The Falkirk Wheel & Edinburgh 5 £394 contact details are provided prior to departure.

01-May Isle of Man 5 £459 01-May Cruising on Sharpness Canal 3 £332 02-May Great Yarmouth & The Broads 7 £446 Falmouth, St Ives 04-May Cheshire Highlights & National Trust 5 £389 & Eden Project 08-May The Bowood Rhododendrons 3 £259 Join us as we venture to the Cornwall and 09-May Eastbourne & The Sunny South 5 £389 experience an excellent selection of tourist 10-May Singles - A Delightful Corner of Wales 5 £374 hot spots. Making for a special Easter break.

11-May Tracks & Trails in Wales 5 £449 Includes 16-May Ilfracombe & North Devon 5 £359 Luxury coach travel; 4 nights’ dinner, bed 17-May Sidmouth & South Devon 6 £571 & breakfast; Eden Project admission; Excursions as described; Personal insurance 23-May Isle of Arran, Oban & Loch Lomond 7 £586 & our superb ‘Door-to-Door’ service!

24-May Scarborough & The Yorkshire Coast 6 £535 25-May Snowdon & Puffin Island 5 £424 during your stay 28-May Our Olympic Legacy 5 £474 Day 1 - With refreshment breaks and a 29-May Sandown - Isle of Wight 5 £409 lunchtime halt en route, we arrive at our hotel in 31-May Perranporth & The Highlights of Cornwall 6 £489 the late afternoon.

01-Jun Hidden Away in East Yorkshire 5 £399 Day 2 - Recover from your journey with a full day at leisure! Our hotel is on Falmouth’s ‘second’ 01-Jun Railways Through the Highlands 5 £479 seafront, with beach walks at the door. The town 03-Jun Rosemundy & The Eden Project 6 £515 centre attractions are a walk away but, for the 07-Jun The Highlands, Orkneys & Castle of Mey 6 £515 non-walkers, local buses will take you around the beautiful coast into the town on a regular basis.

08-Jun Gretna Green & The Western Lakes 5 £399 Pendennis Castle is nearby and the National 08-Jun Ludlow, Powis Castle & The Borders 5 £414 Maritime Museum is certainly worth a visit.

11-Jun Romantic Journeys of Northumberland 5 £454 14-Jun Eastbourne & The Sunny South 7 £546 Hotel 14-Jun Pembrokeshire & The Gower Peninsula 5 £414 Membly Hall Hotel, 15-Jun Singles - Majestic North Wales & Chester 5 £389 Falmouth 15-Jun Lakeland Cruising & The Mountain Goat 5 £484 A friendly hotel with fine sea views and wide a 21-Jun Severn Valley Safari 5 £449 wide variety of excursions on this popular holiday!

6

9 days from £787

beautiful of stately homes. Next, we get our first glimpse of Killarney Lakes, as we head onto this popular town for a little time at leisure. Our hotel (2-night stay) is in Tralee.

Day 5 - We are joined by a guide today, for a tour around the beautiful ‘Ring of Kerry’.

Day 6 - We follow the shores of the great River Shannon to Limerick. From there we call at Bunratty Castle and Folk Park to experience a ‘Window on Ireland’s past’. We continue northwards to Galway for a 2 night stay.

Day 7 - With yet another guide on board we set out for a day around the breath-taking landscape of Connemara!

Day 8 - From Galway we visit Athlone, en route to Dublin and our final hotel.

Day 9 - A guided tour of beautiful Dublin City this morning, before we board the afternoon sailing to Anglesey and the journey home.

laver ref: Lbgi

departure date

Mon 25 August

Route: Call

days (from) s /supp

9

£787 £159

5 days from £384

Day 3 - Following a morning visit to the Cornish Goldsmiths we continue along the coast to the tiny Crane Islands, to spend lunchtime and the afternoon in St. Ives. A minibus shuttle takes you from the coach park to the town below (& back) for a small charge.

Day 4 - We spend the morning in Mevagissey, a pretty Cornish fishing port, and then continue for an afternoon at the Eden Project to see how things have developed in the years since the creation of this, the most popular visitor attraction in the South West.

Day 5 - Time for home and with the occasional stop we will be home by late afternoon.

laver ref: Lbfl

departure date

Tue 14 Apr

Route: Call

days (from) s/supp

5

£384 Nil

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or enquire online at www.laverholidays.co.uk Tours operated by Laver Holidays Ltd. Prices are per person based (over 55 years of age) on two people sharing a twin room and are subject to availability. NIL single room supplements are limited.

Terms & Conditions apply. Please call 0845 666 5544 , visit www.laverholidays.co.uk or see our current brochures for full details terms and conditions. All credit card transactions are subject to a 2.5% charge.

easter Great Little Trains of Wales

4 days from £373

Experience THREE railway journeys and a little of Italy too, at Portmeirion village on the shores of Tremadog Bay.

Includes

during your stay

Day 2 - We take the coast road to Llandudno where we join the Arriva diesel for a ride along the pretty Conway River to Blaenau Ffestiniog. Here we change to narrow gauge for the descent through the hills to

Hotel

Celtic Royal Hotel, Caernarfon Feauturing an indoor pool, lounge and bar area.

Bedrooms are en suite.

Ness Gardens & Chirk Castle

Includes

Luxury coach travel; 3 nights dinner, bed & breakfast; Admission to Museum of Welsh Life, Tredegar House & Butterfly Zoo; River cruise; Personal insurance & our superb ‘Door-to-Door’ service!

Porthmadog, with time for lunch before returning to Caernarvon.

Day 3 - In nearby Llanberis we ride the tiny Lake Railway before driving up the impressive Llanberis Pass to Beddgelert for lunchtime. This afternoon we visit unusual Portmeirion.

Day 4 - We have a break over lunchtime in Chester before heading back to the midlands.

laver ref: Lxew

departure date

Fri 03 Apr

Route: Call

days (from) s /supp

4

£373 £30

5 days from £399

Lazy days on this LazyBreak! Minimal mileage and maximum enjoyment – with wonderful variety throughout.

Includes

Day 1 - We take a morning break in Bakewell, where the Monday Market is in full swing. From there through some stunning scenery as we travel via Buxton and Congleton to Chester for a late lunch and an hour or two at leisure. Our hotel is a short drive away.

Day 2 - We enjoy a morning break at Port Sunlight, where we have time to visit the Lady Lever Art Gallery. Next there’s a lunchtime call in New Brighton before we drive around The Wirral for an afternoon at beautiful Ness Gardens.

Hotel

Beufort Park Hotel, Mold The contemporary Beaufort Park Hotel offers a bar, restaurant and en suite bedrooms.

Perranporth & The Highlights of Cornwall

Hotel

The hotel offers comfortable lounges, indoor pool, beachside location and en suite bedrooms.

Feauturing an indoor pool, lounge and bar area.

Bedrooms are en suite.

Easter - Southend & The Cutty Sark

Day 4 - We cross the Severn and journey back through The Cotswolds, calling in for lunch before heading back to the midlands.

laver ref: Lbev

departure date

Fri 03 Apr

Route: Call

days (from) s/supp

4

£343 £48

4 days from £333

Includes

Luxury coach travel; * 3 nights dinner, bed & breakfast * Greenwich excursion * Admission to Cutty Sark * Personal insurance & our superb ‘Door-to-Door’ service!

during your stay

departure date

£399 Nil

The hotel offers panoramic views, a lounge, bar and en suite bedrooms.

5 days from £389

Singles BREAK Loch Lomond & Arran

laver ref: Lbne

Mon 27 April

Route: Call

days (from) s /supp

5

Day 2 - A day at leisure in Southend. One idea would be a ride on the train along the longest pier in the world. Alternatively, you could walk 1.5 miles of course!

Day 3 - To the eastern side of London today, with a visit to Greenwich. Call at a Thamesside tavern, or the National Maritime Museum. Later we have included a visit to the tea clipper, The Cutty Sark, now fully restored after a devastating fire in 2007.

Day 4 - We take a reasonable break over lunchtime in the university city of Cambridge before heading back to the midlands.

Hotel

Park in Palace Hotel, Southend

laver ref: Lbes

departure date

Fri 03 April

Route: Call

days (from) s/supp

4

£333 £45

5 days from £479

‘Scotland in Miniature’ – that is what they say about the Isle of Arran, with something for everyone.

Includes

Ponsmere Hotel, Perranporth

Day 3 - At Symonds Yat we cruise on the pretty River Wye and, later, call at the fascinating Butterfly Zoo where they have an amazing collection of these beautiful little creatures.

Hotel

Holiday Inn, Newport

Day 1 - After taking a lunch break in St. Alban’s we still arrive in time for tea and hot cross buns, and there’s a glass of Pimms before dinner!

Luxury coach travel (*CLUB CLASS in May & Sept); 4 (or 5) nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Trengwainton admission; Regular to Mevagissey this morning. A quaint, entertainment; xcursion programme; Personal traditional fishing village with pretty stone insurance & our superb ‘Door-to-Door’ service! cottages and a harbour. By lunchtime we reach

during your stay

Day 2 - We visit the enchanting Museum of Welsh Life this morning before driving to Cardiff Bay to see the amazing transformation that has taken place here. This afternoon we visit Tredegar House, a 17th century mansion house.

to the Afonwen Craft and Antiques Centre and, finally the fascinating St. Winefride’s Well and museum, reputedly the oldest continually visited pilgrimage site in Britain.

Just 25 miles all day!

Day 4 - A ride down the stunning Horseshoe Pass into Llangollen and a gentle canal cruise over ‘The Stream in the Sky’ across the Pontcysytlle Aqueduct. Our afternoon is at Chirk Castle, built in the 14th century and still lived in today, this National Trust building has state apartments and pleasant gardens.

Day 5 - To Shrewsbury where we have time for an early lunch and a little retail therapy (shopping!) or a visit to the beautiful Quarry Gardens before heading for home.

The ‘Hotel on the Beach!’ A great location and an extremely popular hotel with our customers for many years!

Day 1 - With regular breaks in our journey, we arrive at the hotel in good time to relax before dinner. There is regular entertainment in the hotel, plus an indoor pool and beauty salon too.

Day 2 - A free morning, explore the (limited) shops in this small town or, for the more adventurous, why not step out on the South West Coast Path for some truly stunning views! In the afternoon, a short excursion to pretty St. Just in Roseland and St. Mawes, with a refreshment break in Truro, the county town and only city in Cornwall.

Day 3 - A short ride through the heart of Cornwall

during your stay

Day 1 - Lunchtime in Worcester. We are welcomed at our hotel with tea/coffee and hot cross buns, and a Pimm’s before dinner! There is a lovely indoor pool here too.

Variety is the key word for this tour – From seaside to sailing ships, trains to taverns!

Luxury coach travel; 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast; Admission St. Winefride’s Well, Chirk Castle & Ness Gardens; Canal cruise; Visits to Port Sunlight & Gladstone Museum; Personal insurance & our unique ‘Door-to- Day 3 - At nearby Hawarden we visit the unique Gladstone Library, one of the few Door’ service!

Grade 1 listed buildings in Wales. From here

during your stay

4 days from £343

From butterflies to boats – museum to mansion. Wonderful variety on a short holiday!

Luxury coach travel (Club Class); Welcome drink on arrival; 3 nights dinner, bed & breakfast; Three train rides; Admission to Portmeirion; Personal insurance & our superb ‘Door-to-Door’ service!

Day 1 - A lunch break in Llangollen before driving through the Snowdonia hills to our hotel in Caernarvon. Tea or coffee on arrival.

Wine with dinner this evening.

Easter - The Wye Valley & More!

Falmouth, which boasts the deepest harbour in Western Europe, providing shelter to many large ocean going vessels.

Day 4 - (Not April) We drive across the county today for a visit to the twin towns of East and West Looe, a delightful place to spend an afternoon!

Day 5 - One of Cornwall’s hidden gems must surely be Trengwainton Gardens, a 25-acre National Trust property featuring an amazing array of plants, a lake, impressive palm trees (and the obligatory tea room!) After a morning at Trengwainton, we move on via the coast road to St. Ives, another ‘Cornish Gem’, to enjoy an afternoon at leisure.

Day 6 - Our journey north to the midlands is broken with a number of short breaks.

laver ref: Lbpr/Lxpr Route: Call

departure date

days (from) s /supp

Thu 09 Apr 5 Sun 31 May*, 13 Sep* 6

£384 £20 £479 £25

Includes

Luxury coach travel; 4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Tea/coffee/shortbread on arrival; Glass of wine each evening; Return Arran ferry; Arran guided tour; Evening entertainment & cookery demo; Excursions as described * Personal insurance & our superb ‘Door-to-Door’ service!

during your stay

Day 1 - From the Potteries, we turn north and head for the border, with stops en route and tea/coffee and shortbread served on arrival.

Entertainment is provided on at least two evenings during your stay (three in April), with one being a special Scottish night!

Day 2 - An easy day today! A ride north along the coast of the Firth of Clyde to Largs for a leisurely break. Enjoy views across the firth to the Isle of

Hotel

Menzies Hotel, Irvine The 3 star Menzies Hotel offers lounges, bar and ground floor rooms. Bedrooms are en suite.

Bute and the Isle of Cumbrae – home to the Scottish Water Sports Centre.

Day 3 - A morning sailing from Ardrossan across to Brodick on the Isle of Arran, where we are joined by a local guide for the day. Our island tour will (subject to availability) include a free coffee & tasting at a local distillery and free time in Brodick too, before we board the late afternoon ferry back to the mainland.

Day 4 - We travel north once more to cross the Clyde by ferry, with a break in the riverside town of Helensburgh. Later, we ride along the shores of Gare Loch and Loch Long to Tarbet, on Loch Lomond. We return to the hotel via the Erskine Bridge.

Day 5 - Following breakfast, we head south to cross the border at Gretna, then home.

laver ref: Lbsa

departure date

Mon 13 April Mon 19 October

Route: Call

days (from) s/supp

5 £479 Nil 5 £464 Nil

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or enquire online at www.laverholidays.co.uk Tours operated by Laver Holidays Ltd. Prices are per person based (over 55 years of age) on two people sharing a twin room and are subject to availability. NIL single room supplements are limited.

Terms & Conditions apply. Please call 0845 666 5544 , visit www.laverholidays.co.uk or see our current brochures for full details terms and conditions. All credit card transactions are subject to a 2.5% charge.

7

MANCHESTER SHIP CANAL

3 days from £179

featuring u-boat Story & iwm

relaxing canal cruise

Little known to most, our canal and waterway systems have played a key role in the development of our country and still play a pivotal role in the history of our nation.

SHIP canal cruise included

Includes

The Skills British and Continental programmes seek to offer you a wide variety of the very latest and super stylish coach holiday destinations throughout the UK and Europe.

2 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast Excursions as stated Entrance to the U-Boat Story Entrance to Imperial War Museum Manchester Ship Canal Cruise

Our 2015 Skills British programme offers a wide selection of holidays and short breaks whether you want to relax on a ‘5 star luxury in London,’ celebrate at ‘Ladies day at Royal Ascot,’ see the ‘Wonderful Wildlife of Scotland’ or divulge in ‘Downton Abbey & the Cotswolds’ Skills Continental also has a wide range of 4 to 7 days, or 9 to 12 day holidays offering a mixed variety of destinations from ‘Oberammergau & the Bavarian Alps’ which promises to be a picturesque paradise, or catch the sun in ‘Calella De La Costa Ft Barcelona’ and ‘Croatia’ Wherever you decide to visit this year travel with Skills and you’re guaranteed to be in the capable hands of one of our experienced drivers so all you need to do is sit back, relax and enjoy the journey.

TOUR DIARY

Hotel hhhh

Chalon Court Hotel, St. Helens, Merseyside

This four star hotel is ideally located in St. Helens, Merseyside. The contemporary, colourful rooms offer a relaxed and comfortable stay.

tales of two haLLS

haunted breaks ft simon entwistle

skills ref: Sbms

departure date

bruges

keukenhof gardens

providing plenty to do whilst on board.

£179 £36 £179 £36 £179 £36

2 days from £109

NEW

Includes

CHINESE NEW YEAR

Route: b

days (from) s /supp

Thu 07 May 3 Mon 20 July 3 Mon 28 September 3

Award winning historian Simon Entwistle and his unique talent in reciting ghostly tales takes you on a spooky journey into Lancashire’s past.

date destination

days from 1 night dinner, bed and breakfast; Services of tour guide; Entry to both halls 07-Mar Imperial War Museum & Bletchley Park 2 £89 13-Mar Mini Cruise - Bruges 3 £109 Hotel hhhh 14-Mar Tales of Two Halls 2 £109 Mercure Dunkenhalgh. Hotel & Spa 14-Mar Settle to Carlisle Railway 2 £109 This 4-star hotel is a 700-year-old building with restored original features. Full of unique 16-Mar St Patricks Day in Ireland 4 £279 character ideal for this historic tour.

20-Mar Lake Como & The Bernina Railway 8 £519 27-Mar Mini Cruise - Amsterdam 3 £109 29-Mar 5 Star Luxury in London 2 £139

IN LONDON - Trafalar Sqaure 03-Apr London 3 £179 Join the crowds that travel from far and 03-Apr Mini Cruise - Bruges 3 £109 wide to watch the largest Chinese New 06-Apr Kent Ft Call the Midwife Tour 5 £239 Year celebration outside of Asia.

11-Apr Calella De La Costa Ft Barcelona 9 £459 Includes 13-Apr Magical Merseyside Ft Liverpool & Chester 4 £209 1 night, bed and breakfast; 13-Apr Belfast & The Legend of the Titanic 4 £299 Free time in London 17-Apr The Sights of London Ft The Shard 2 £175 17-Apr Lille & Brussels Ft Ypres 4 £179 Hotel hhh Holiday Inn Express, Croydon 17-Apr Mini Cruise - Keukenhof Gardens 3 £139 Located in Croydon town centre, the Holiday 18-Apr Bluebells & Orchids at Kew 2 £99 Inn is a modern and comfortable choice with 19-Apr Isle of Man 5 £359 great travel links to London.

20-Apr Paignton & The English Riviera 5 £259 20-Apr Killarney & The Ring of Kerry 7 £419 21-Apr All Inclusive Austrian Tyrol 8 £555 24-Apr Spa Break - Norton Grange 2 £89 mini cruise 25-Apr Galway Ft Kylemore Abbey & Connemara 6 £439 25-Apr Harrogate Flower Show 2 £89 A Medieval Masterpiece- Bruges is a step back in time with a modern twist.

25-Apr Settle to Carlisle Railway 2 £109 25-Apr Bluebells & Orchids at Kew 2 £99 Includes 26-Apr 5 Star Luxury in London 2 £139 2 nights’ accommodation; 27-Apr Dunoon & The Isle of Bute 5 £269 Excursion to Bruges;

Onboard Meals (2x breakfast + 2x evening meals) £45pp 01-May Lake Como & The Bernina Railway 9 £679 cruise ferry 03-May Oberammergau & The Bavarian Alps 7 £509 P&O Cruise Ferries 04-May Valkenburg 5 £295 P&O Cruise Ferries offer ‘state of the art’ accommodation and a range of facilities 04-May Wonderful Wildlife of Scotland 5 £409 providing plenty to do whilst on board.

07-May Manchester Ship Canal 3 £179 09-May Swiss Dream Railway Journeys Ft Liechtenstein 8 £659 09-May Railways & Waterways 2 £99 10-May The Great Railways of Scotland 6 £519 mini cruise 10-May Northumbria Explorer 5 £359 World famous Keukenhof Gardens attracts 15-May Paris - The City of Lights 4 £205 thousands of visitors each year.

16-May Imperial War Museum & Bletchley Park 2 £89 Includes 19-May Belfast & The Legend of the Titanic 4 £299 2 nights’ accommodation; 20-May Chelsea Flower Show 2 £145 Excursion to Keukenhof Gardens; 22-May Thames Tales River Cruise 4 £289 Onboard Meals (2x breakfast + 2x evening meals) £45pp 22-May Bath, Stonehenge & Salisbury ft Bristol 3 £159 23-May Treasures of Tuscany 9 £579 cruise ferry 23-May Settle to Carlisle Railway 2 £109 P&O Cruise Ferries P&O Cruise Ferries offer ‘state of the art’ 25-May Lake Garda & Venice 9 £549 accommodation and a range of facilities 25-May Maritime Britain & the Mary Rose 4 £229

8

during your stay

Day 1 - Departure by coach we make our way to the U-Boat Story Submarine Museum. Gain an insight into life on board a real German U-Boat, discover this wartime vessel and uncover the mystery of U-534.

Day 2 - Today we make our way to the Manchester Ship Canal. Opened in 1894 this was one of the last major canals to be constructed in Britain. Step onboard and sail along this unique waterway and learn about its history and how it operates in modern times.

Day 3 - We make our way to The Imperial War Museum. This is a truly inspirational and moving visit.

skills ref: Sbrv

departure date

Sat 14 March

Route: a

days (from) s /supp

2

£109 £15

2 days from £69

outstanding value quality breaks at the best prices

skills ref: Sbcn

departure date

£

Route: d

days (from) s /supp

Sat 21 Feb 2ND COACH 2

£69 £20

3 days from £109

excellent value the best value for breaks around

skills ref: Scmc

departure date

£

Route: spec

days (from) s /supp

Fri 03 April NEW DATE 3

£109 £41

3 days from £139

excellent value the best value for breaks around

skills ref: Scmc

departure date

Fri 17 April

£

Route: spec

days (from) s /supp

3

£139 £45

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

Tours operated by Skills Holidays and Coachstyle. Prices are per person based on two people sharing a twin room (standard inside twin cabin if applicable) and are subject to availability. NIL single room supplements are limited.

Terms & Conditions apply. Please call 0845 666 5544 , visit www.skills.co.uk for or refer to our brochures for full details or terms and conditions. All credit card transactions are subject to a 2.5% charge.

MAGICAL MERSEYSIDE

featuring Liverpool & chester

4 days from £209

NEW

On this wonderful break explore the wonders of Merseyside as we take a cruise across the River Mersey and explore two historic cities that sit side by side; Liverpool and Chester.

city centre hotel hotel located at the ALBERT DOCKS Hotel hhh

Jury’s Inn, Liverpool

Paris, Lille & Bruges

a tale of three cities!

Paris has more familiar landmarks than anywhere else in the world, its hustle and bustle combined with the elegance and romance of the city make it one of Europe’s most visited places.

Bruges’ narrow streets are lined with atmospheric bars and cafés and its traditional gabled houses and lovely canals add calm and tranquillity to the city’s charm. Lille’s range of architectural styles is crowned by the Flemish influence that runs through the streets of its historical quarter, Vieux Lille.

Three completely different atmospheres combine to tell a tale of three cities!

Includes

Return ferry sailing; 3 nights’ bed and breakfast; Excursions as stated

Hotel hhhh

Novotel Lille Lesquin

Located just 10 minutes by coach from central Lille in its own wooded setting; an ideal location for our weekend break. After a busy day of touring and exploring, you can relax by the pool.

KILLARNEY

& THE RING OF KERRY ft dublin

during your stay

Day 1 - Departure by coach we make our way to our hotel ideally located by the Albert Dock for a 3 night stay. Once checked into the hotel your afternoon and evening is yours to do as you please.

Day 2 - We meet a local guide for a 2 hour coach tour around Liverpool, showcasing all the sights this famous city has to offer. Following this we make our way to Pier Head for a ferry cruise across the Mersey.

Day 3 -To Chester after breakfast for a guided walking tour of this medieval city (2hrs).

Day 4 - After breakfast we journey home making a stop in Nantwich, a medieval market town. departure date

Route: b

days (from) s/supp

Mon 13 April 4 Mon 29 Jun, 10 Aug 4 Mon 05 October 4

£209 £75 £219 £75 £209 £75

4 days from £195

NEW

during your stay

Day 1 - Departure by coach to Dover for the ferry crossing to Calais and then continue the short distance onto Lille for three nights’ bed and breakfast.

Day 2 - Today’s included excursion takes us to Paris. Enjoy time at leisure.

Day 3 - Enjoy a full day’s excursion to Bruges, listed on the UNESCO World’s Heritage List, Bruges has always been one of Belgium’s most cherished cities. You then enjoy free time to explore to rest of Lille.

Day 4 - We enjoy time at leisure in Lille, where there will be time for some last minute shopping. We then return home.

skills ref: SCLR

Route: e

departure date

days (from) s /supp

Fri 26 June Fri 16 October

4 £195 £79 4 £195 £79

7 days from £419

The Ring of Kerry is the longest and the PICTURESQUE SIghts most diverse of Ireland’s big circle drives, EXCELLENT EXCURSION PACKAGE combining jaw-dropping coastal scenery with emerald pastures and villages.

The 179km circuit winds past pristine beaches, the island-dotted Atlantic, medieval ruins, mountains and lakes.

The predominately coastal Ring actually starts and ends inland at Killarney, a historic town set in an enchanting during your stay spot within Ireland’s oldest protected Day 1 - We make our way to Fishguard for our wilderness, the Killarney National Park. ferry sailing onto Rosslare to continue our journey

Includes Return ferry sailing; 6 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast; Excursions as stated (days subject to change)

Hotel hhh

Treacy’s Hotel, Waterford Killarney Heights Hotel, Killarney Regency Hotel, Dublin

All hotels used are 3 star minimum. All hotels will have facilities including Restaurant, Bar and en-suite bedrooms with TV.

3 railway journeys INCLUDES FANTASTIC JOURNEYS

Includes

skills ref: Sbmm

The contemporary 3 star Jury’s Inn Liverpool is located by the Albert Docks making it an ideal base for exploring the city of Liverpool.

Discover a place of timeless beauty and variety where you will see mountainous landscapes looming above tranquil lochs that mirror the sky.

6 days from £499

5 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast 3 Railway Journeys

Includes

3 nights’ bed and breakfast; Guided tour of Liverpool; Excursions as stated; Ferry cruise on the Mersey; Guided tour of Chester

The Great Railways

of Scotland

through to Ireland. We stay in our first hotel in Waterford for one night dinner, bed and breakfast.

Day 2 - We explore Waterford first then continue the journey to Killarney where we stay for four nights dinner, bed and breakfast.

Day 3 - Full day excursion for the Ring of Kerry tour. View the famous Lakes of Killarney and the magnificent National Park.

Day 4 - Full day excursion around the magnificent Dingle Peninsula en-route to Slea Head. We stop at the small town of Inch.

Day 5 - Excursion into Killarney.

Day 6 - Visit city of Dublin to explore upon arrival.

Day 7 - Ferry crossing to Holyhead and then home.

skills ref: Scrk

departure date

Mon 20 April Mon 22 June

Route: f

days (from) s /supp

7 £419 £119 7 £439 £119

during your stay

Day 1 - Travel to Scotland for a one night stay at the Best Western Buchanan Arms Hotel & Spa in Drymen (near Loch Lomond).

Day 2 - We head towards the largest town in the highlands- Fort William; why not explore the foot of the mighty Ben Nevis or eat in one of the many

Hotel hhh

Minimum 3 star hotel

You will stay in a minimum three star hotel.

All hotels will have the Restaurant, Bar and en-suite bedrooms with TV.

valkenburg

featuring cologne & Maastricht

different restaurants, the choice is yours. We stay for three nights in the Alexandra Hotel in Fort William.

Day 3 - We head to Inverness to join the Kyle Line. We board at the Kyle of Lochalsh for the 2 hour journey to Dingwall.

Day 4 - After a well-deserved night’s sleep we take the West Highland Line from Fort William to Mallaig which was featured in the Harry Potter films and passing over the 21 arches of the Glenfinnan Viaduct.

Day 5 - Today, we enjoy the steam train from Aviemore to Broomhill. We make our way to our final hotel; The Pitbauchile Hotel in Dunfermline.

Day 6 - After a truly once in a lifetime experience we say our goodbye and head homewards.

skills ref: Sbst

departure date

Sun 10 May Sun 28 June Sun 11 October

Route: a

days (from) s/supp

6 6 6

£519 £70 £529 £70 £499 £70

5 days from £295

Tucked away in the beautiful valley of the River Geul is enchanting Valkenburg, a splendid spa town in the historic province of Limburg. The surrounding ‘Dutch Alps’ are characterized by rolling hills, forests, brooks, sunken roads and meandering rivers. We visit nearby Maastricht, one of the oldest cities in Holland, and the Three Countries viewing point. We also have the opportunity to visit the historic towns of Cologne and during your stay Aachen in neighbouring Germany.

Day 1 - Departure by coach to Dover, we sail

Includes

Return ferry sailings 4 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast Excursions as stated

Hotel hhh

Best Western Hotel Walram, Valkenburg The stylish Best Western Hotel Walram is situated in the heart of Valkenburg with local amenities just a stone’s throw away. With a rich history dating back to the 18th century, the hotel offers a special atmosphere of nostalgia and modernity.

ALL INCLUSIVE AUSTRIA

featuring the Krimml Waterfalls

across to Calais and continue to Holland. We enjoy a four night dinner, bed and breakfast stay.

Day 2 - To Aachen in Germany, which is on the border with Belgium and the Netherlands.

Grand old buildings are scattered throughout the city which lead to its historic landmark; Aachen Cathedral. We then make our way to drielandenpunt, or 3-land point - spot where the Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium come together. We then visit Maastricht.

Day 3 - At leisure in our resort of Valkenburg.

Day 4 - To Cologne for a full day excursion.

Day 5 - After breakfast, we re-board the coach for the journey home.

skills ref: Scvb

departure date

Mon 04 May Mon 06 Jul, 07 Sep

Route: e

days (from) s/supp

5 £295 £49 5 £295 £49

8 days from £555

Lofty mountains, picturesque valleys, rugged peaks, rolling Alpine pastures, spectacular glaciers - it’s all here to enjoy: Tyrol, ‘The Land in the Mountains’ attracts visitors from all over the world. Stunning scenic beauty, friendly people, and amazing tourist facilities and services all combine to make Tyrol a truly unique destination.

all inclusive this tour is a resort all inclusive

Return ferry sailing; 2 nights’ bed and breakfast en-route; 5 nights’ All Inclusive in resort; Unlimited house wine, beer and soft drinks 10:00-22:00; 1 Speciality meal- speciality buffet OR grill (weather permitting); Excursions as stated

during your stay

Includes

Hotel hhh

Hotel Kroneck, Aschaber

The 4 star family run hotel is located just 1km from the centre of Kirchberg, away from the noise of the town, with a pleasant footpath along the river that leads you straight to the town centre. You will discover Tyrolean warmth, traditional hospitality and creative cuisine, all combined with extensive spa facilities, the perfect atmosphere for our stay.

Day 1 - We drive south for the crossing to France then into Germany to our overnight hotel (B&B).

Day 2 - We continue into Austria arriving at our resort base of Kirchberg, for our five nights’ all inclusive stay.

Day 3 - We collect our packed lunch and head to Innsbruck - enjoy free time and later on to Lake Achen via the renowned Achenseebahn.

Day 4 - We spend a day at leisure in resort. Lunch and afternoon tea as well as drinks are available at the hotel.

Day 5 - We depart this morning along with our packed lunch for our journey across the famous Thurn Pass to our destination of the Krimml Waterfalls.

Days 6 to 8 - Call for full info or visit Skills.co.uk

skills ref: Scaa

departure date

Route: e

days (from) s/supp

Wed 21 Apr, 18 Oct 8

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

£555 CALL

Tours operated by Skills Holidays and Coachstyle. Prices are per person based on two people sharing a twin room (standard inside twin cabin if applicable) and are subject to availability. NIL single room supplements are limited.

Terms & Conditions apply. Please call 0845 666 5544 , visit www.skills.co.uk for or refer to our brochures for full details or terms and conditions. All credit card transactions are subject to a 2.5% charge.

9

Leeds & York

2 days from £65

NEW

Shop, sightsee and soak up the atmosphere of these two different, but equally as interesting destinations.

Includes

1 night dinner, bed & breakfast Excursions to York and Leeds

Hotel hhh

Cornmill Lodge, Leeds

CoachStyle offers fantastic value for money on a wide range of destinations throughout the UK and Europe. Although Coachstyle’s comes under the umbrella of the Skills Group, it carries its own unique identity offering fascinating city breaks exploring London, a dazzling selection of ‘Theatre Breaks,’ memorable ‘Murder Mystery Weekends’ or family favourites like the thrilling rides of Thorpe Park, and ‘London & Harry Potter’ CoachStyle are also offering eggcellent value breaks all handpicked for you to enjoy over Easter, old favourites like ‘Easter in Blackpool’ are back, with a few new surprises making 2015 the perfect opportunity to start discovering what treasures CoachStyle has to offer.

TOUR DIARY

A family run hotel set in the suburbs of Leeds, the Cornmill Lodge has 76 well furnished and comfortable rooms, make for a relaxing break.

london & Greenwich

COACHSTYLE ref: cblh

departure date

Sat 18 Apr, 11 July Sat 31 October

Route: b

days (from) s /supp

2 2

£69 £10 £65 £10

2 days from £65

Combining the buzzing atmosphere and attractions of the city of London with time to explore in Maritime Greenwich.

Includes

1 night dinner, bed and breakfast Excursions to London and Greenwich

COACHSTYLE ref: cblg

Hotel hhhh

departure date

Surrounded by natural beauty and historical landmarks, the Holiday Inn Stevenage is a striking, modern building located in the town centre.

Sat 11 Apr, 02 May Sat 20 Jun, 05 Sep Sat 17 October

Holiday Inn, Stevenage

Legoland & Windsor

Great fun for all the family!

Route: d

days (from) s /supp

2 2 2

£69 £15 £69 £15 £65 £15

2 days from £99

Legoland theme park is a place where theme PARK date destination

days from magical family memories are made, packed excellent attraction for families 06-Mar A Weekend at the Adelphi 3 £139 with rides and attractions it’s a must for all 07-Mar Saturday Special’s 2 £65 family members.

07-Mar Cotswolds & Bath 2 £75 Includes 1 night dinner, bed and breakfast; Excursions; 07-Mar York & Harrogate 2 £75 Entrance to Legoland 14-Mar London & Cambridge 2 £59 Route: d COACHSTYLE ref: cble 14-Mar London Theatre Break Weekend 2 £129 Hotel hhh departure date days (from) s /supp Holiday Inn Express, Slough 16-Mar Torquay Warmer 5 £169 Relax at this hotel with its modern and vibrant Sat 04 Apr, 23 May 2 £99 £22 16-Mar Sandown, Isle of Wight 5 £179 interior design, situated in a quiet residential area.

Sat 18 July 2 £99 £22 20-Mar A Welsh Weekend 3 £119 A warm welcome can always be guaranteed.

Child (2-11 yrs) price £89 when sharing with 2 adults 21-Mar London Theatre Break Weekend 2 £115 21-Mar Faulty Towers 2 £79 27-Mar A Weekend at the Adelphi 3 £139 from 27-Mar Scarborough, Whitby & Bridlington 4 £139 Ft Lake Windermere Cruise 28-Mar Murder Mystery 2 £75 Combining city, coast and countryside this 28-Mar Oxford & Blenheim Palace 2 £85 weekend you are sure to experience some 30-Mar Bournemouth 5 £209 breath-taking scenery.

Includes 03-Apr Easter in Blackpool 4 £169 2 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; 03-Apr A Welsh Easter 4 £179 Excursions; Cruise on Lake Windermere 03-Apr Easter in Torquay 4 £159 Route: b COACHSTYLE ref: cblw Hotel hhh 04-Apr Legoland & Windsor 2 £99 departure date days (from) s /supp Holiday Inn, Lancaster 10-Apr Lancaster Ft Lake Windermere Cruise & Morecambe 3 £139 This modern hotel is set along the banks of the Fri 10 April 3 £139 £15 11-Apr London & Greenwich 2 £69 River Lune in an ideal location for our stay with 11-Apr Dr Who Experience 2 £85 easy access to the Lake District and Morecambe.

Sat 06 June 3 £145 £15 11-Apr London Theatre Break Weekend 2 £129 13-Apr North Wales Explorer Ft Llandudno & Snowdonia 5 £229 13-Apr Sandown, Isle of Wight 5 £199 from 13-Apr The Rhine Valley 5 £219 Weekend - WHODUNNIT?!?

18-Apr Leeds & York 2 £69 Suspense and curiosity are all high on 18-Apr Shropshire Delights Ft Shrewsbury & Severn Valley Railway 2 £89 the agenda with a chilling weekend full 18-Apr London Theatre Break Weekend 2 £119 of deviousness, lies and deceit. Can 20-Apr St Ives 5 £219 you piece together the evidence and 25-Apr Murder Mystery 2 £75 identify the killer or will you be led to 27-Apr Weston-Super-Mare 5 £219 believe that someone innocent is the 28-Apr Wiltshire’s Villages 3 £129 guilty party? Work together to solve

the crime of this murderous act and 02-May London & Greenwich 2 £69 ensure that justice will prevail.

02-May Warwick Ft Shakespeare’s Stratford 2 £69 Includes during your stay 02-May London Theatre Break Weekend 2 £109 1 night dinner, bed and breakfast Day 1 - Departure by coach then onwards for 04-May Mill Rythe Holiday Village 5 £199 Murder Mystery Event; Excursions as stated a visit to Gloucester. Combining a rich historic past with a modern city, Gloucester has much 04-May Weymouth 5 £209 to offer. Boasting excellent shopping centres, 04-May Pembrokeshire 5 £239 museums and restaurants it is also home 09-May Royal Residences & Gardens 3 £179 to the magnificent Gloucester Cathedral 09-May Oxford & Blenheim Palace 2 £89 and Gloucester docks. We then make our way to the hotel for our evening of themed 09-May London Ft BBC Studio Tour 2 £89 entertainment.

09-May London Theatre Break Weekend 2 £119 Day 2 - Enjoy time at leisure in your resort 11-May North Wales Explorer Ft Llandudno & Snowdonia 5 £239 of Cardiff. The capital and largest city in 11-May St Ives 5 £239 Wales, Cardiff offers top class entertainment and quality shopping which sits alongside 11-May Bournemouth 5 £229 Hotel hhh innovative architecture and historic buildings.

16-May London Theatre Break Weekend 2 £119 Park Inn, Cardiff Route: d COACHSTYLE ref: cbbm 16-May York & Harrogate 2 £75 North departure date days (from) s /supp 18-May Cumbria & the Lake District 5 £229 A modern hotel offering convenient routes to Sat 28 Mar, 25 Apr 2 £75 £5 22-May Scarborough, Whitby & Bridlington 4 £159 Cardiff’s historic city centre, the docks and the Sat 30 May, 27 Jun 2 £75 £5 23-May Legoland & Windsor 2 £99 Millennium Stadium.

Sat 25 Jul, 31 Oct 2 £75 £5

lancaster

Murder Mystery

10

3 days

2 days

£139

NEW

£75

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk/coachstyle

Tours operated by Skills Holidays and Coachstyle. Prices are per person based on two people sharing a twin room (standard inside twin cabin if applicable) and are subject to availability. NIL single room supplements are limited.

Terms & Conditions apply. Please call 0845 666 5544 , visit www.skills.co.uk for or refer to our brochures for full details or terms and conditions. All credit card transactions are subject to a 2.5% charge.

Wiltshire’s Villages

ft royal wooton bassett

3 days from £125

NEW

Home to many traditions, legends and myths including its famous crop circles, Wiltshire has many villages to explore. On this three day tour we showcase four towns that Wiltshire has to offer.

Includes

2 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast Excursions as stated

Hotel hhh

Holiday Inn Express, Swindon Based in Swindon city centre, the hotel offers well-furnished bedrooms in a fresh and welcoming style to provide comfortable accommodation. This hotel is an ideal base for any short and relaxing break.

cumbria

& the lake district Cumbria is an area of stunning natural beauty and at 885 square miles, the Lake District is the largest National Park in England. Rugged mountains and tranquil waters mixed with bustling market towns make Cumbria a number one tourist destination.

Includes

4 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast 2 nights’ entertainment Excursions as stated

Hotel hhh

The County Hotel, Carlisle Set in the heart of Carlisle and overlooking the twin towers of King Henry VIII’s historic Citadel, the County hotel is an ideal base to explore the Lake District.

during your stay

Day 1 - Departure by coach to Royal Wootton Bassett which had close links with the nearby Royal Air Force base at Lyneham and was granted ‘Royal’ status in 2011 for its role in military funeral repartitions that passed through the town.

Day 2 - Today take time to explore Chippenham, a lively market town packed full of historical architectural gems. We then make our way to Bradford on Avon a bustling market town nestled on the west corner of Wiltshire.

Day 3 - After breakfast we make our way to Marlborough.

COACHSTYLE ref: cbwv

departure date

Route: d

days (from) s /supp

Tue 28 Apr, 23 June 3 £129 £40 Tue 25 August 3 £129 £40 Tue 06 October 3 £125 £40

5 days from £219

PICTURESQUE SIGHTS EXCELLENT EXCURSION PACKAGE

Includes

Hotel

The Leisure Hotel, Skegness The Leisure is a long established guest-style accommodation which is ideally situated in the heart of Skegness just a few minutes walk from the clock tower, central promenade, shops and bars.

Includes

4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast Excursions as stated

Hotel hhh

Beaufort Park Hotel, Mold Set in the beautiful Welsh countryside and with an emphasis of providing ‘home from home’ accommodation, guests staying at the modern and contemporary Beaufort Park Hotel can expect a comfortable break alongside high standards of service and locally sourced produce.

loch lomond

& The Trossachs

Steeped in history and becoming ever more popular for its festivals, Aberfoyle is the gateway to the Trossachs.

NEW

during your stay

Day 1 - Departure by coach, we make our way to Chester. We then continue to the Beaufort Park for a four night stay.

Day 2 - Join us on a full day excursion to Snowdonia National Park. We also stop in Betws-Y-Coed situated in dense woodland and surrounded by picturesque waterfalls.

Day 3 - After breakfast we have a half day in Rhyl.

Day 4 - Today we spend a full day in Llandudno. an ideal resort to explore.

Day 5 - Departure by coach, we make our way home.

COACHSTYLE ref: cbll

departure date

Mon 13 April Mon 11 May Mon 20 Jul, 10 Aug Mon 07 September

Route: a

days (from) s /supp

5 5 5 5

£229 £239 £259 £249

NIL NIL NIL NIL

5 days from £219

PICTURESQUE SIGHTS EXCELLENT EXCURSION PACKAGE

Includes

during your stay

Day 1 - Departure by coach to Carlisle for a four night stay with dinner, bed and breakfast.

Day 2 - Today we enjoy a full day excursion to Cockermouth and Keswick.

Day 3 - Today spend time at leisure in Carlisle.

Day 4 - Join us on another full day excursion as we visit Grasmere and Bowness-on-Windermere. We then head to Lake Windermere, the largest natural Lake in England at 12 miles long. Bowness in particular is a hub for watersports and is now Cumbria’s main tourist destination.

Day 5 - Today we say goodbye to the Lake District as we retrace our steps home.

COACHSTYLE ref: cbbr

departure date

Route: a

days (from) s/supp

5 days from £219

during your stay

Hotel hh

The Rob Roy Hotel, Aberfoyle The Rob Roy Hotel is wonderfully situated in idyllic countryside at the gateway to the glorious Trossachs and is set within Scotland’s first National Park. The hotel is aptly named after the legendary local folk hero, Rob Roy McGregor.

ostend Based in the popular seaside resort of Ostend renowned for its lively atmosphere and entertaining shows it is one of Belgium’s most impressive coastal destinations, and with a total of five popular sandy beaches which stretch several miles long you can be assured of all the traditional delights.

A friendly and relaxing atmosphere is waiting for you on the ‘drier side of Britain’ in the resort of Skegness - one of the UK’s favourite seaside destinations. It offers all the amenities and attractions you would expect from this traditional resort.

4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast Excursions as stated

With magnificent castles, railways and festivals, north Wales is an exciting place to visit at anytime of year.

Llandudno is Wales’ largest seaside resort with a beautiful coastline, rolling countryside and endless attractions and in close proximity to the Snowdonia National Park.

5 days from £229

4 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast; Excursions as stated

Mon 18 May 5 £229 £40 Mon 03 August 5 £229 £40 Mon 28 September 5 £219 £40

Skegness

North Wales Explorer

Ft Llandudno & Snowdonia

during your stay

Day 1 - Departure by coach to Skegness to enjoy a four night stay.

Day 2 - Today, we have planned a full day excursion to Mablethorpe and Cleethorpes.

Day 3 - At leisure in Skegness Day 4 - A half day excursion to the market town of Boston which is home to the iconic 14th century medieval St Boltolphs Church (Boston Stump) which is 272ft high. A town that offers a wealth of history, heritage and wonderful architecture.

Day 5 - Today, we say our goodbyes to the Lincolnshire coast as we make our journey home.

COACHSTYLE ref: cbsk

departure date

Route: a

days (from) s /supp

Mon 22 June 5 £219 NIL Mon 21 September 5 £219 NIL

Includes

Return ferry sailings 4 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast Excursions as stated

Hotel hhh

Hotel Melinda, Ostend

The recently renovated Hotel Melinda is a modern and contemporary hotel offering comfortable and stylish accommodation, but nevertheless has a philosophy of providing a traditional warm and friendly welcome that our guests have come to expect.

Day 1 - Departure by coach to Aberfoyle for a four night stay.

Day 2 - Join us for a full day excursion as we take time to explore the best that Loch Lomond and the Trossachs have to offer.

Day 3 - Today, we have a half day excursion to Stirling.

Day 4 - Depart after breakfast for a full day to Callandar and Loch Katrine. We spend the morning in Callander. This afternoon we make our way to the Trossachs pier at Loch Katrine.

Relax in the café overlooking this famous loch.

Day 5 - Departure by coach, we make our way home.

COACHSTYLE ref: cbat

Route: a

departure date

days (from) s/supp

Mon 08 June Mon 31 August

5 £219 NIL 5 £219 NIL

5 days from £269

customer favourite highly recommended

during your stay

Day 1 - Departure by coach to Dover for our ferry sailing. We then continue our journey onto Belgium for our four night half board stay.

Day 2 - Today we enjoy a full day excursion to Bruges. The old medieval town is one of Belgium’s greatest tourist attractions; the entire town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 3 - Whether you wish to relax on the beach or visit one of the seafront cafés for a traditional Belgian waffle. Day at leisure.

Day 4 - We visit Ypres, holding many memorials and cemeteries of the fallen which draw thousands of visitors each year.

Day 5 - We re-board the coach for our return.

COACHSTYLE ref: ccos

departure date

Route: e

days (from) s /supp

Mon 15 June 5 £269 £89 Mon 27 Jul, 24 Aug 5 £279 £89 Mon 21 September 5 £269 £89

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk/coachstyle 11 Tours operated by Skills Holidays and Coachstyle. Prices are per person based on two people sharing a twin room (standard inside twin cabin if applicable) and are subject to availability. NIL single room supplements are limited.

Terms & Conditions apply. Please call 0845 666 5544 , visit www.skills.co.uk for or refer to our brochures for full details or terms and conditions. All credit card transactions are subject to a 2.5% charge.

On tour with Carolyn & Paul In the hustle and bustle of the 21st century it’s easy to feel a bit out of touch, especially when going on holiday. You arrive at an airport only to be herded through a number of check-points, and then when you arrive at your destination you are left helpless to find your own way around.

Here at Skills we care about our customers, and we believe that a holiday should start as soon as you leave the house. We’ve learnt a lot throughout our 96 year history and we proudly join together holiday go-ers from all over the East Midlands to share and enjoy their experiences, all you have to do is book and everything else is taken care of.

From offering our customers exclusive access to our departure lounge services which offer complimentary tea and coffee (available with coach holidays and with our park and ride joining option) starting any journey off with a satisfying start.

Pictured: Paul and Carolyn Pendleton (Skills Driver and Couriers)

easier for us to add in a few personal extra’s, once we arrive in Barcelona Paul actually takes everyone on guided tour of the City whilst I reveal the highlights of the area.”

To our team of experienced and friendly drivers and couriers that are great at adding that little extra personal touch that you wouldn’t get anywhere else, and are always around if you need anybody to talk too! Carolyn, one of our long standing Skills employees reflects on her experiences at being a courier; “Customers really enjoy getting to know me, and my husband” Paul, one of Skills many professional drivers. “Because we’re married it’s nice that they can get to know us both. And I really enjoy showing everyone new and different places.”

“And when we arrive in Diano Marina, I walk the passengers up to show them the Cathedral, the Palace and the lovely place where Princess Grace got married, then I’ll take everyone to get their passports stamped because not many people get to do that anymore! It’s just a nice touch that people seem to enjoy.”

“Skills coach passengers aren’t like any others, they are caring, considerate, friendly, they share in this experience and it brings them closer together, there is a saying ‘A single person is never on their own for long on a coach holiday’ that’s because people leave us as friends.”

Carolyn goes on to describe her time on popular tours such as ‘Calella De La Costa Ft Barcelona’ from £459pp and ‘Diano Marina Ft the Italian & French Rivieras’ from £569; “Because we’ve both been there before and know the area’s so well it’s

Our dedicated production team specialise in planning and arranging exciting excursions and interesting itineraries so you’re guaranteed to get the most out of your holiday, and you haven’t even got to worry about the parking!

Congratulations to...

l Jane Mitchel 14 November 20 r Winne

We’ve been inundated with lots of fun ‘Skills Selfies’ It’s been tough picking just one winner, so for Decembers entry we decided to pick two! We want to thank everyone for submitting their Skills Selfies, and for those of you who didn’t win you will be entered into next month’s draw! Keep sending us your selfies and make them as creative and original as you want.

Congratulations to Jane Mitchell (pictured in front of our Skills coach) November’s winner.

Melissa Sw December ann 2014 Joint W inner

The joint winners for December are Melissa Swann, for her photo taken in Belguim and Lydia Walker for her minion on tour, spotted across er Spain and Italy.

Lydia Walk The first winner of 2015 is Elaine Dryden for her very creative effort with her friends at the Penny Lane sign. Congratulations to all of our winners, who will receive a £25 voucher to be used with any Skills Holidays or Coachstyle breaks.

12

r 2014 Deceminbneer Joint W

den Elaine Dry 15 0 2 ry a u Jan Winner

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

Tours operated by Skills Holidays and Coachstyle. Prices are per person based on two people sharing a twin room (standard inside twin cabin if applicable) and are subject to availability. NIL single room supplements are limited.

Terms & Conditions apply. Please call 0845 666 5544 , visit www.skills.co.uk for or refer to our brochures for full details or terms and conditions. All credit card transactions are subject to a 2.5% charge.