Ocean View Magazine - Issue 12

OCEAN VIEW Interiors, Lifestyle, Food, Sailing, Cruising and so much more...

Issue 12 Volume 1 2014

It’s Time To Enjoy An Ocean View

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Welcome Like so many of our readers, I can’t spend too long away from the coast. Perhaps two months at most, but then I’m homesick for the salt breeze and the sound of seagulls in the morning. Nothing quite beats walking along the shoreline with the wind in your hair and your bare feet in the sand. When you look out towards the horizon, there are no buildings, no cars, no people… no stresses. Just miles and miles of deep blue ocean. Isn’t it wonderful knowing that just beyond the horizon, a whole world awaits you?

For ten years now Ocean View has explored some of the most beautiful destinations on Earth. In this issue, we circumnavigate the whole globe by rail, bicycle, foot, cruise ship and private jet. There’s something for all tastes hidden in these pages, from treks over the Scottish Highlands (with room for some Michelin Star food of course) on page 56, to a five star golfing holiday in the hills above the French Riviera, featured on page 36. If you’re looking for an adventure further from home, why not explore the hi-tech megacities of South Korea on page 8, or perhaps take a tour through the rickety streets of New Orleans – the home of jazz and the famous PoBoy dish, on page 16?

Wherever you choose to set your horizons this summer, I hope you find a little something to inspire you here in Ocean View…

New Orleans page 16

Zoe Thomas Editor

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We’re laid-back 4 OCEAN VIEW

We’re upbeat

W

We’re Egypt

See you by the Red Sea SHARM EL SHEIKH - HURGHADA www.egypt.travel

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ISSUE 12, Volume 1 2014

Contents

OCEAN VIEW Interiors, Lifestyle, Food, Sailing, Cruising and so much more...

Issue 12 Volume 1 2014 FREE

It’S tIme to enjoy An oCeAn VIew

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Cover Image: Easter Island www.captainschoice.co.uk

Ocean View Magazine Managing Director/Publisher: Lee Mansfield lee@lifemediagroup.co.uk Commercial Director: Simon Skinner simon@lifemediagroup.co.uk Operations Director Clare Fermor clare@lifemediagroup.co.uk Advertising Sales Lottie Dowdeswell lottie@oceanviewuk.co.uk Editor: Zoe Thomas zoe@lifemediagroup.co.uk Design: Harriet Weston harriet@lifemediagroup.co.uk Accounts: Amelia Wellings: amelia@lifemediagroup.co.uk Subscriptions: Linda Grace linda@lifemediagroup.co.uk Published by: LMG SE LTD Park View House 19 The Avenue, Eastbourne, East Sussex, BN21 3YD 01323 411601 Printed by: Gemini Press Unit A1 Dolphin Way, Shoreham-by-Sea, West Sussex, BN43 6NZ 01273 464884 All material in this publication is strictly copyright and all rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. The views expressed in Ocean View Magazine do not necessarily represent the view of Life Media Group LTD. Every care is taken in compiling the contents but the publishers of Ocean View Magazine assume no reponsibilty for any damage, loss or injury arising from the participation in any offers, competitions or advertisment contained within Ocean View Magazine. All prices featured in Ocean View Magazine are correct at the time of going to press.

Copyright Life Media Group 2014 ©

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Korea: Megacities, ancient temples, volcanoes and the diving ladies of Jeju Spending It: We have picked some of the latest summer clothing and accessories that are essential for your summer holiday.

Destination: New Orleans: Discover South Korea’s enthralling fusion of world heritage sites, sprawling megacities and volcanic landscapes Recipes: Bestselling TV cook Bill Granger brings his trademark fresh flavours and easy-going recipes to the well-loved food of Italy RSPB: Sarah Woods looks at why the RSPB, Europe’s largest wildlife conservation charity, is urging us all to connect with nature Review of Terre Blanche: MD Lee Mansfield discovers luxury beyond measure at the Terre Blanche Spa Golf Hotel in Provence Malta: There’s something for everyone on the Maltese archipelago Rail Journey: Take the Amtrak Coast Starlight from Seattle to LA Cover Feature: Captain’s Choice private jet tours offer global travel at the height of luxury Weekend Breaks - Scotland: Brief, fleeting… but worth every second Competition:Get your hands The Geneva Sound System Model XS DAB+

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Changgyeong Palace, Seoul, South Korea

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Cruise Korea

The Hi-Tech Nation with an Ancient Heart Discover South Korea’s enthralling fusion of world heritage sites, sprawling megacities and volcanic landscapes

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Korea traditional building with blue sky background in garden,Jeju Volcanic Island,Korea

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Korea

Busan Cruise Port Korea’s oldest port is also the world’s fifth busiest. Since the start of its development in 1876, the surrounding city has grown into a sprawling metropolis – a forest of cranes, skyscrapers and offices all dwarfed by the dramatic backdrop of mountains sheathed in mist. At night, the city comes alive with millions of glimmering lights and the beautiful Gwangan Bridge – the second largest in the country, can be seen from the bars along Gwangalli beach, reflected ethereally on the water’s surface.

As with most cruises, excursions on land can be short and sweet so it is vital to make the most of the time available. Here are some ideas for unmissable excursions around the giant city of Busan…

Haeundae Beach With easy access from downtown Busan, this 2km stretch of golden sand is a must-visit on any cruise stop.

Here the edge of the city gives way to the endless sapphire blue of the East Sea, a welcome relief from the people, traffic and high rise buildings that dominate this dynamic city. Bordering this famous beach is a huge choice of up-market hotels, new shops and luxury apartments. The state-ofthe-art Busan Aquarium is located in the middle of Haeundi Beach and boasts over 35,000 species of fish, reptiles, amphibians and algae over three floors. There is also a fascinating ‘ocean bed walk’, which invites visitors to walk through an 80m tunnel beneath a tank full of colourful marine creatures.

A Quick History of South Korea South Korea officially came into existence at the end of WWII in 1948, when Korea was divided into north and south regions under a United Nations agreement, administered by the Soviet Union in the north, and the USA in the south. From this two separate governments were formed, both of which claimed to be the legitimate ruler of Korea. After the catastrophic Korean War, both governments finally stabilised and set out on their own political trajectories.

Today the country is led by a liberal democracy and has reared up from the ashes as a wealthy economy with a growing tourism industry.

is an ideal base from which to explore the staggeringly beautiful islands peppering the coastline, as well as the sites inland including ancient temples and the famous China Town built during the Ching Dynasty.

Not far from Incheon is the megacity of Seoul, home to half of South Korea’s population.

Seoul, the capital of South Korea, has become one of the world’s hottest city destinations. Seoul is a dynamic 600-year old capital that combines ‘Old & New’ in a continually evolving metropolis. Centuriesold palaces, temples and shrines sit amongst the modern facades of soaring skyscrapers, shopping malls and fantastic open-air markets selling everything from Ginseng to designer glasses and antiques to electronics.

Top excursions from Incheon Cruise Port include…

Jeondeungsa Temple

“The Jeondeungsa Temple was built when Buddhism first spread to Korea and it is now considered to be one of the most historically significant buildings in the country”

Shinsegae Centum City The Centum City Department Store is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s biggest shopping complex.

As well as a huge selection of shops, the complex also offers entertainment including a spa and an ice rink, should you

fancy a massage or a quick wiz around on some skates between shops. The building itself was developed by renowned Italian architect Claudio Silvestrin and an American architecture firm, under the concept of a ‘golden sea’ – reflected in the towering floors illuminated in a soft golden light.

Incheon Cruise Port (Seoul) Incheon Cruise Port is widely seen as the Western world’s gateway into Korea, located on the northwest coast just one hour from the capital city of Seoul, Incheon

This ancient 4th Century temple, with its traditional hat-shaped roof, extraordinary carvings and colourful payer wheels, is encircled by a fortress and nestled within a thick forest on Ganghwa Island.

It was built when Buddhism first spread to Korea and it is now considered to be one of the most historically significant buildings in the country. The building houses a number of important structures, including the Yangheonsu Victory Monument and the Beomjong Bell. Visitors can also see where soldiers in the French Navy wrote their names on the wall to pray to Buddha for good luck in the war.

Songdo International City Amongst the ancient relics of a past Korea, a new world is being built. Just 30 minutes from Incheon is Songdo International City, known as a ‘smart city’. This $40bn project is expected to be finished in 2015, and will contain trade towers, schools, offices, hospitals, apartments and replicas of famous OCEAN VIEW 11

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Terms & Conditions: Prices are correct at the time of going to print (13.05.2014) Prices shown are in pounds sterling per person based on two adults sharing the lowest grade of stateroom category specified including flights from London and return transfers. These offers are subject to availability and may be changed or withdrawn at any time. These offers are for new bookings only and cannot be combined with any other offer. For full booking conditions please refer to Crystal Cruises latest brochure. An administration charge applies to all telephone bookings. A credit card charge of 2.5% applies. Six Star Cruises acts as agents for ATOL protect cruise operators only.

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SONGSAN ILCHULBONG in Jeju island , South Korea

landmarks such as Venice’s waterways and New York’s Central Park. A huge amount of the cost has been invested in sustainability and 40% of the area will be reserved for green spaces including parks, bicycles lanes and charging stations for electric vehicles.

Jeju Cruise Port Jeju Sea Port is on Jeju Island, located off the south coast of Korea. The sea port offers access to the breath-taking Halla Mountain, a 1,950m volcano that has been listed as a UNESCO world heritage site.

Places to visit include…

2007 and were designed to lead visitors around the island’s whole coastline. The trails are colour coded to indicate difficulty level, and range from three to seven hour hikes.

Hanyeo The Hanyeo, or ‘diving women’, are famous for their extraordinary ability to dive deep into the ocean to collect octopi and shellfish without the need for oxygen tanks. These women, nicknamed Korean Mermaids, have been diving in the waters around Jeju island since they were children. Some can dive up to 20m and hold their breath for over a minute.

Hallasan National Park This stunning National Park boasts six hiking trails leading through 153.112 sq km of land covered with an extraordinary array of flora, fauna and geological features such as the Geomunoreum lava tubes and crater lakes.

The Jeju Olle Trails The Jeju Olle trails were first marked in

To find out more about activities in Korea, visit www.gokorea.co.uk

Aerial view of blue sky and cloudscape over Jeju city on Jeju Island coastline, South Korea.

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Get Ready for Summer We have picked some of the latest summer clothing and accessories that are essential for your summer holiday.

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1. Polka dot swimsuit, Next, £30, www.next.co.uk 2. Florent Pewter Sandals, FitFlop, £65, www.fitflop.com 3. Mens Hat, Marks & Spencer, £19.50, www.marksandspencer.com 4.

Neon Paisley Sarong, Accessoriz, £19, uk.accessorize.com 5. Ray Ban 4195, MyOptique Group, £139, www.sunglasses-shop.co.uk, www.myoptique.com 6. Men’s Straw Trilby Hat, Sainsbury’s TU, £8, www.sainsburys-live-well-for-less.co.uk/tu-clothing/ 7. Deck Shoe in Red, J Shoes, £65, www.jshoes.com 8. Whale Print Swim Short, Matalan, £10, www.matalan.co.uk 9. Colby Beach tote, Radley, £59, www.radley.co.uk 10. Laura Sandal, White Stuff, £39.95, www.whitestuff.com 11. Ada Black, Hardie Amies, £280, www.jaikudo.com 12. Shape & Enhance Halter One-piece, Lands’ End, £80 13. Preppy Beach Towel, Marks & Spencer, £20, www.marksandspencer.com 14. Label J Printed Shorts, Jacamo, £30, www.jacamo.co.uk 15. Indiana Flip Flop, Dune, £39, www.dune.co.uk/mensbrands 16. Dune - Fleur, £29, www.dune.co.uk 17. Mesh espadrilles, Next, £26, www.next.co.uk

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New Orleans night skyline reflects in Mississippi River.

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New Orleans Jazz, Freedom and Red Beans – A Taste of Life in New Orleans

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J

azz is the lifeblood of New Orleans.

It hits you in the solar plexus, gets you somewhere you never knew existed. It was in this small Louisiana town just over a hundred years ago that the rumble of African drums first met the brass instruments of Europe, and jazz (the West African word for ‘sex’) was born, erupting from the instruments in a frenzy of rhythm that would soon cross seas and become one of the most popular music genres in the world.

The character of New Orleans is like its jazz – lively, unpredictable and yet powerful too. Right from the offset, the so-called ‘Big Easy’ danced to the beat of its own drum. The city has always enjoyed a freedom that exists nowhere else in North America, and this sense of liberty was born from its cultural history. While the English colonies of North America followed straight-laced Protestant values, the people of New Orleans embraced the ways of all its waifs and strays to create a vibrant melting pot of life, art, music, food and language. People came from far and wide to make New Orleans their home; from the French who first founded the colony in 1718, to slaves from West Africa and Haiti, as well as immigrants from Spain, Cuba, Ireland, Germany, Greece, Croatia and the Philippines. And for all of these, the city offered a mostly level playing field.

When the Spanish invaded in 1765, they offered the black population a chance to buy themselves out of slavery in return for support against the French settlers. Along with Creole slaves, these newly free settlers set up their own black urban communities – the first in North America.

Now, over a century has passed and this pulsing little city, on the banks of the Mississippi, has grown up and forged its own epicurean philosophy devoted to the joy of life, expressed through the music that dances day and night through these charming, rickety old streets.

Visiting New Orleans Inspired to experience the vibrant Big Easy for yourself? New Orleans welcomes all visitors with open arms, whether for budget, midrange or luxury holidays. Once there, there is so much to see, do, taste and of course hear, that’s it’s difficult knowing where to start. Here we’ve put a selection of original ideas together to help you plan your visit for 2014…

Festivals More often than not you’ll be swept off your feet and into a party within hours of your arrival at New Orleans. Festivals occur all year round in different parts of the city, celebrating all aspects of life including food, music art and film. Here are some of the best…

“The character of New Orleans is like its jazz – lively, unpredictable and yet powerful too.”

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Oyster Festival (May 1-June 31) For seafood lovers this festival is a dream.

Head to Woldenberg Riverfront Park and try some world famous Gulf of Mexico Oysters, plucked straight from the crystal clear shallows and prepared by some of the city’s top chefs.

Satchmo Summer Fest (Jul 31–Aug 3), If you’re travelling here in August, be sure to stop off at the French quarter for the Stachmo Summer Fest, a free music festival dedicated to Louis Armstrong where you can enjoy live jazz and ice-cold Southern style beverages under the midsummer sun.

Crescent City Blues and BBQ Festival (Oct date TBC)

Combine a warm October evening with meat sizzling on the BBQ and some of the most renowned blues musicians in the country, and you’ve got the Crescent City Blues and BBQ Festival. This is held in Lafayette Square and what’s more, it’s completely free.

Culinary delights How do you really get a good taste of a new place? To really understand a culture and its people, you need to taste their regional dishes. Food is the fuel of life and for the people of New Orleans, it’s a real passion. Their food represents their heritage, it represents the land they live on, and it represents their unique New Orleans identity.

New Orleans is famous for its great Monday tradition: red beans and rice. Traditionally, Monday was washday and women would put on a pot of beans to stew with a leftover hambone while they got on with the daylong task of washing the laundry. While most people these days have the luxury of a washing machine, red beans and rice are so loved by locals that most still enjoy this dish (usually with pork sausages) every week.

Restaurants serving a great dish of red beans and rice include: Felix’s Restaurant and Oyster Bar 739 Iberville St. 504 522 4440 Matassa’s Market 1001 Dauphine St. 504 412 8700 Sammy’s Food Service & Deli 3000 Elysian Fields Ave. 504 947 0675 Other local delicacies also have their own quirky stories…

Banana Foster This dessert was concocted in the 1950s as a way of promoting New Orleans’ latest fruit import. It consists of four bananas split lengthways and flambéed

New Orleans

A jazz band plays in Jackson Square in New Orleans OCEAN VIEW 19

New Orleans

release on the big screen with a super sized bucket of popcorn.

Golf There’s no better way to enjoy the Southern sunshine than on a challenging, beautifully landscaped golf course – of which there are plenty in New Orleans.

Boating and fishing Pack a picnic and head out onto the water for a spot of fishing and sunbathing on board.

Nightlife New Orleans has more than just jazz to offer. There are also plenty of nightclubs, cocktail bars, burlesque clubs and gig venues to keep all night owls entertained until dawn. Head to Bourbon Street in the French Quarter where you will find all of these and more within walking distance.

Bourbon Street in the famous French Quarter section of New Orleans

in butter, sugar, cinnamon and a good dousing of rum. This is then served with a US-sized dollop of vanilla ice cream.

Po-Boys During the Great Depression nearly a hundred years ago, a group of streetcar workers went on strike for four months, during which they opened a sandwich shop and dished out free sandwiches to their former colleagues, who they jokingly called ‘poor boys’. In Louisiana dialect, this is pronounced ‘po boy’ and this was what the sandwich soon became known as.

This well-stuffed French roll may not be haut cuisines, but it’s one of the best-loved foods in the city and it makes for a great lunch when you’re up and about.

Gumbo The closest thing to gumbo is stew, but most locals insist gumbo, served over rice, is in a category of its own. No two bowls of gumbo 20 OCEAN VIEW

are ever the same and it really represents the mix of cultures in the city. Native Americans introduced the base seasonings of sassafras and bay leaves, while okra came over from West Africa. Over the years, other ingredients have been added and everybody seems to have their own way of making it.

Activities From horse riding and fishing to museums and galleries, there is plenty to do and see for all ages in and around New Orleans.

Cycling Take in the beautiful ironwork balconies and Creole cottages in the French Quarter by bicycle, then cycle down to the historic Garden District to view the magnificent houses with their sprawling gardens.

IMAX Want a real American experience? Head to the movies for the evening and catch a new

A shot of the Fats Domino statue at the front of Musical Legends Park

MASK OPTIONAL FUN INEVITABLE In New Orleans, it’s Fat Tuesday every day of the week.

Perhaps it’s because the city is the birthplace of jazz and the cocktail. There’s something to amuse and delight around every cobblestoned corner, especially the tax free shopping. Visit us at www.neworleansinfo.com.

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Walking tours Themed walking tours are offered all over the city, giving visitors an excellent chance to find out more about its vibrant history, food and culture by foot. ‘Free Tours By Foot’ offer a New Orleans Ghost Tour in the French Quarter as dusk begins to fall and eerie stories bring the ancient street to life. If you’re more interested in the city’s culinary offerings that tormented souls from times past, then perhaps you would prefer to join the French Quarter Food and History Tour. Here guides take you on a walk through the streets, telling stories of the city’s most famous restaurants and chefs, and eventually ending up at café Beignet where you can tuck in to some local treats. Find out more at www. freetoursbyfoot.com Alligator Swamp Tours Take a cruise with a difference around the swampy regions surrounding New Orleans. See exotic flora and fauna and come face to face with 10-foot gators (from the safety of your boat!) as well as deadly snakes, swamp deer and raccoons.

French Quarter with traditional balconies

New Orleans cooking experience If you fall in love with New Orleans food during your stay, why not sign up for a culinary class or two? There are a number of cooking schools around the city offering lessons in authentic techniques that help you not only build your skills, but also enjoy a fun and unique evening with friends or family.

Find out more about New Orleans, please visit www.neworleansinfo.com

Famous Louisiana bayou swamp tour, New Orleans

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Connected to Nature

With only 1 in 4 of UK children playing regularly outside, Sarah Woods looks at why the RSPB, Europe’s largest wildlife conservation charity, is urging us all to connect with nature to ensure future generations grow up truly passionate about the wildlife, birds, flowers and trees of our great outdoors

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t is widely accepted that today’s generation of children are less connected to nature than ever before. Yet, there is now overwhelming evidence to show that contact with nature brings benefits for children and affects people’s life-chances.

Not only is it beneficial to children’s mental health and wellbeing, personal and social development, confidence and academic achievements but there is also no substitute for fresh air and outdoor play to help children feel healthy and happy.

Obesity, a lack of exercise and too little of that all-important white light on skin has led to an increase in problems associated with vitamin deficiencies in children. Many children are also growing up to feel that nature is unavailable, which then limits outdoor experiences and the development of imagination. Nature can help children learn 30 OCEAN VIEW

a sense of responsibility in understanding that their actions have a direct impact on the natural world and the wildlife within it.

A rise in isolated, sedentary pastimes such as watching television and browsing the internet has led to many children having no experience of birds and other wildlife.

This is a worrying trend as today’s children are tomorrow’s politicians, educators and decision-makers – potentially posing a real threat to the ‘great outdoors.’ Children who don’t value and respect nature when they’re young are less likely to see the importance of protecting the natural environment when they’re older. According to Mike Clarke, RSPB Chief Executive: “Without the opportunity and encouragement to get outdoors and connect with nature, children are missing out on so many benefits that previous generations

have enjoyed, and it’s putting the future of our wildlife and natural environment at risk.

Less than 10 per cent of children today play in natural places such as woodlands, the countryside and heaths, compared with 40 per cent of children 30 to 40 years ago.”

The RSPB has a strong history of providing opportunities for children to engage with, learn about and help save nature for over 100 years. Every year, thousands of children engage with nature with the RSPB, including 50,000 schoolchildren who visit its outdoor learning centres across the UK. Over 100,000 children take part in its Big and Little Schools’ Birdwatches in their school grounds. It also has over 200,000 junior members, including more than 40,000 teenagers. An important part of the RSPB’s role is encouraging children to spend as

Discover the Great Outdoors

much time as possible outdoors – be it to explore one of its 200+ nature reserves located around the UK or to jump around in puddles, kick up leaves and study creepy crawlies under logs in their garden or local park. Children can also play a vital role in helping to conserve species of garden wildlife in decline by getting involved in creating habitat for hedgehogs, bees, butterflies and birds, from digging a pond, planting wild flowers, creating a bug hotel or adding a window box or tub.

“It’s time to encourage parents to send their kids out to let them interact with nature and create a happier society,” urges TV psychologist Emma Kenny. “This is invaluable to a child’s development in terms of self esteem, self confidence and good health. Our children come alive in the outdoors in a way they just don’t when

playing computer games. Children are having less contact with the natural world than ever before when what they need to know is that their planet is an amazing and inspiring place. If they don’t we will end up with a future generation of politicians, teachers, business leaders and scientists who don’t value nature or wildlife – placing it at a serious risk.”

As Europe’s largest wildlife conservation charity, the RSPB has created the first ever baseline of connection to nature among UK children – a brand new measure produced with leading academics at the University of Essex as a result of growing concerns over generations of children with little or no contact with the natural world. Parents can access a website to calculate how connected to nature their children are currently – then measure it again in the future. It explores children’s empathy for creatures, responsibility for nature, enjoyment of nature experiences

The RSPB is part of the Natural Childhood Partnership, www.outdoornation.org.uk an exciting movement to bring about real change in the relationship between young people and nature. For details on how to encourage children to discover the great outdoors, visit: www.rspb.org. uk/getoutdoors.

In 2013, the RSP launched its biggest ever campaign to encourage householders in the UK to help ‘Give Nature a Home’. With a number of garden wildlife species now in serious decline, it offers tips on how children can attract greater numbers of wildlife and birds into their garden to transform it into a haven for flapping, fluttering, buzzing, burrowing, snuffling and slithering creatures. Visit the Give Nature a Home’ in their own backyard can be found at: www.rspb.org.uk/homes.

“Our children come alive in the outdoors in a way they just don’t when playing computer games”

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and sense of ‘oneness’ with the natural world. While the RSPB recognises that parents are rightly worried about dangers posed by ever busier roads and other threats when it comes to allowing children to play outdoors, it is urging families to spend time outside together. Most children have an in-built fascination with creepycrawlies and a desire to jump in muddy puddles with the simple things like blowing the seeds off dandelion ‘clocks’ and making a daisy chain just some of the great outdoorsy pleasures. Catching tadpoles, flying kites, building dens and climbing trees should be staples of every childhood – it is worrying that kids could be missing out on these experiences. TV, film and video game consoles are no substitute for amazing outdoor adventures involving pooh sticks, great piles of autumn leaves, winter foraging for acorns and tracking wildlife in the snow.

Rachel Bragg has been leading the work at the University of Essex. She says: “It’s vital that we understand how a child’s experience of nature influences their feelings of connection to the natural world, as this will affect future behaviour towards the environment. The study we’ve developed with the RSPB will help us measure this connection and it will give us the first baseline data for children in the UK.” Mike Clarke, RSPB Chief Executive, says: “As a child I would spend hours fishing for sticklebacks and tadpoles, climbing trees and building dens in the local woods and marshes of Shorne and Cobham in Kent – and I remain fascinated by nature to this day. I couldn’t have known then that those memorable experiences would stay with me, and spark a commitment to saving nature that has been with me ever since. Today, children’s lack of contact with nature is a serious problem, but it isn’t an unsolvable one.

If the Government, parents, schools, the RSPB, and other like-minded people and organisations all work together we can make real changes in the relationship between young people and nature, for the benefit of both.”

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RSPB

Build The Wonder

There are lots of things parents can do at home to build this ‘wonder’ in children whilst helping UK birds and wildlife • Spend time in the garden or your local park on a mini beast safari and marvel at the wonder of this micro universe.

• Walk coastal trails to relish in the unique sights and sounds of a marine habitat – the squawking cries of gulls, the crashing of the waves and the smell of sea spray!

• Add bird feeders to your garden to help to attract a greater variety of birds – you can download a bird identifier from the RSPB website: www.rspb.co.uk • Encourage your child to feel (moss, mud, pine cones), hear (bird song, woodpeckers and grasshoppers), see (butterflies, bees and soaring birds of prey), touch (pebbles, sand, twigs and leaves) and taste (blackberries, chives and cherries) nature - the closer he or she gets to the natural world, and the more sensory the experience, the more they will feel a part of it.

• Start a collection of rocks, feathers and plants and other “treasures” from nature.

• With UK wildlife in trouble, many of our garden favourites are in real danger following years of declining numbers, including hedgehogs, starlings and ladybirds. Work with your children to make improvements to your garden to encourage butterflies in your flowerbeds, frogs in your water feature and birds in your bushes or install an insect tower or bird table – kids will relish the opportunity to feel involved.

• Invest in a simple pair of child-size binoculars to spot birds, butterflies, deer, and other wildlife – encourage older children to

keep a journal or scrap book of what they see, hear and find.

• However you feel about creep crawlies, encourage your children’s fascination for bugs and beetles - a magnifying glass is an essential piece of kit. The RSPB also sells bug kits.

• Create a small garden of vegetables, herbs, and other garden plants or start a simple windowsill tray or jar of sprouting seeds.

Children love to sow, water, pick, prune and harvest.

• Create crafts from pressed flowers, feathers, seed pods, twigs, and leaves.

• Have a picnic lunch in your own yard, a park, or other outdoors space – children love to eat outside and really don’t mind that the sun isn’t shining at full pelt.

• Find a nature trail or make your own path in the woods and walk it with your children at regular times throughout the year to observe the various seasonal changes.

• Stargaze with your child to identify stars, planets, and constellations – maybe as part of an overnight stay under canvass in the garden. Simple telescopes for children and a star chart make this fun.

Check your own family’s level of connection to nature and find out more at www.rspb.org.uk/getoutdoors OCEAN VIEW 33

Experience Relaxation E Surrender to the comforts of world renowned spas, relaxation in Egypt is effortless

gypt’s sun drenched dry climate, therapeutic hot springs and mineral rich waters have been a draw for visitors since ancient times.

Egypt’s health and healing tradition is based on the curative qualities of the destination’s desert sands and sulphuric springs which have been proven to ease arthritic or rheumatic pain, psoriasis, as well as treat a number of other conditions and complaints for centuries.

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Today, Egypt harnesses invigorating and curative natural therapies such as healing hot sand baths, Salt Cave therapy and Climotherapy, whilst also providing spa seekers with a sophisticated, comprehensive and world-class network of spa and wellness centres to restore, revive and rejuvenate body and mind.

The growing popularity of health therapies with holidaying tourists, availability of skilled specialists and the

www.egypt.travel

ever-increasing number of luxurious hotel resorts or specialist therapy centres conspire to transform Egypt into one of the world’s most popular destinations for visitors in search of relaxation and recuperation.

Just a five hour flight from London and with a year round warm climate, Egypt is the ideal destination for anyone looking to relax or revitalise. Whether visiting to enjoy Egypt’s superb beaches, pristine coral reefs, fascinating ancient sites or outstanding golf,

experiencing the destination’s first rate wellness offering is a must for any itinerary.

Although located throughout Egypt, some of the country’s most superior spas can be found in Cairo and in the Red Sea Riviera resorts, offering locally made natural products and treatments that build on centuries of health and wellness practices.

Wellness holidays are bountiful in the popular Red Sea resort of Sharm El Sheikh, home to Egypt’s most reputable and lavish

spas including the Savoy Aqua Spa, Grand Rotana Zen Spa, and Reef Blue Bay Resort & Spa. Holidaymakers here can lie back and be swept away by local hibiscus infused treatments and techniques that were once enjoyed by Cleopatra herself.

For more information on Egypt’s Spa & Wellness offering, please visit: http://en.egypt.travel/product/index/ spa-wellness

www.gotoegypt.org

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02/05/14 10:34

4 10:34

Eat, Play, Love MD Lee Mansfield discovers luxury beyond measure at the Terre Blanche Spa Golf Hotel in Provence

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e were greeted at Nice airport in true Terre Blanche style: with a luxury chauffer driven car that would take us right to the entrance of our destination. After a 40-minute drive through the spectacular South France landscape, past vineyards, craggy hills and historic villages – we finally pulled up outside the Terre Blanche Spa and Golf Hotel just north of Cannes. It was immediately clear that this was no ordinary hotel. This was a sprawling 300-hectare luxury estate nestled in the foothills of the Alps, home to woodland and lakes, five-star accommodation, a spa 38 OCEAN VIEW

and two of Europe’s most prestigious golf courses: Le Chateau and Le Riou – both landscaped by renowned Golf architect David Thomas.

Right from the beginning the service was excellent – truly five star. Staff were welcoming, polite and on hand to ensure that we had everything we wanted. Service at Terre Blanche forms an integral part of the experience – and an ‘experience’ it certainly was, from the stylish décor of the hotel itself, to the high standard of cuisine and activities on offer.

Being a golfing man, I couldn’t wait to

get out into the Provence sun and experience the winding fairways and fast greens of these championship courses for myself.

The first thing that struck me was how well thought-out the courses were. They blended seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, with plenty of cleverly designed obstacles for a truly challenging game.

Anybody hoping to perfect their skills in the Riviera sunshine will be delighted to hear that Terre Blanche plays host to the David Leadbetter Academy – one of the most famous golfing academies in the world. This provides advanced coaching

for people of all abilities, from beginners right up to professional level – plus a Junior Programme for budding pros aged between seven and 17.

On the subject of young people, there is also a Kids Club on site that is, as you might expect by now, in a league of its own. Just like the rest of Terre Blanche, everything in the Kids Club is designed to enhance the happiness and comfort of its guests – even the very little ones. Children will be spoilt for choice when it comes to facilities, which include a large swimming pool, two playrooms, a video game room

and a wide range of workshops designed to sate inquisitive minds and get creative juices flowing.

Back on the golf course, we were having our own fun. On day one we played 18 holes before retiring to the golf club restaurant – Les Caroubiers – for some well-deserved food. In true Provencal style, the décor was light and elegant, the wines well paired and local, and the gourmet food beautifully presented and frankly delicious. This was no wonder, seeing as Two Michelin Starred Chef Yannick Franques oversees all four restaurants.

If – and I stress ‘if’ – you feel the need to venture out of this self-contained golfing paradise, you’re in an ideal spot for exploring the area. With the star-studded French Riviera to the South and the snowy Alps to the North, you can go for a ski in the morning and be back at the coast in the afternoon in time for a refreshing swim.

After a long, grueling (ahem) day in the sun, it was time to head to the spa for some pampering. If my mind wasn’t already blown by the supreme level of luxury found in every nook and cranny of this sprawling resort, it was at the Terre Blanche Spa. It OCEAN VIEW 39

was magical. Set slightly apart from the main hotel, it was like a bubble of calm – if bubbles of calm contain 14 individual treatment rooms, relaxation beds, swan neck fountains, steam baths and a tranquil 20m pool. This one certainly did.

Once we were scrubbed, massaged, soaked and steamed to the point of Nirvana, we made our way back to our suite. The suites and villas at Terre Blanche are fitted with some nice technological comforts – including high speed Wifi and a flat-screen with multimedia consoles. Our villa had a big double bedroom, lounge, marble en-suite and a terrace with a terrific view over the golf course and surrounding villages.

The accommodation and facilities at Terre Blanche are ideal for families, couples and even business parties. The hotel boasts a number of superb conference rooms and what better place to discuss business than on the golf course? For those who fall in love with the Terre Blanche lifestyle, there is even an opportunity to purchase a plot of land on this private estate, along with a whole host of perks and services.

To find out more about real estate at Terre Blanche, telephone +33 (0)4 94 39 36 96. To book your stay, either visit en.terre-blanche.com, or telephone +33 (0)4 94 39 90 00.

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Ancient Cities and Pristine Beaches in Malta

Whether you want to explore cobbled streets between ancient buildings, hike dramatic coastlines, or relax on sandy beaches, there’s something for everyone on the Maltese archipelago

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he colours that strike you on a Maltese horizon come in three distinct bands – dark blue, limestone gold and sky blue. Dominant on every shoreline, they distinguish the island as a Mediterranean haven of beaches for all tastes – whether for soft white sands, golden shores, or rocky coastlines. Voted one of the top three countries with near-pristine bathing waters by the EU, and with 87 monitored waters to choose from, 95% of which are of excellent quality to swim in, Malta has plenty to boast about. What’s more, the bathing season in Malta lasts for more than five months – from mid-May until late October.

The Sliema coastline is a long expanse of smooth golden limestone, winding its way through different areas with several lidos, beach clubs and water-polo clubs along the way. Water sports like parasailing and paragliding as well as jet skiing are very popular along the promenade, which stretches for more than 2km along the coast. From Tigne Point overlooking Marsamexetto Harbour on one end, to Qui Si-Sana, Ghar id-Dud, Ferro Bay, Fond Ghadir and Exiles looking out towards Balluta Bay and St Julians’ at the other, anyone staying in these two tourist hubs is guaranteed stunning views, and great swimming only meters away from great 42 OCEAN VIEW

shopping and evening entertainment.

However, there are plenty of other places to enjoy a good swim which are slightly more off the beaten track and cater to those who want a bit more adventure.

Perched above the crystal clear Mediterranean Sea on the North East side of the island is the ancient city of Valletta, a treasure trove of historic scenes, café culture and one-of-a-kind shops. Meander down the narrow streets and soak up the culture of this majestic fortress city, with Renaissance cathedrals, Baroque palaces and some of Europe’s finest art work at every corner.

The Upper Barrakka gardens offer a panoramic view of the Grand Harbour, whilst St John’s Co-Cathedral is a paragon of Baroque design and home to Caravaggio’s only signed work. Those wishing for a taste of aristocracy can stop off at Casa Rocca Piccola, the grand family home of Marquiz de Piro.

Throughout the day, wander around the cobbled streets and sun dappled squares.

Valletta is a hub of bustling eateries and wine bars, many of which showcase Malta’s local traditional specialities and distinctive influences, while using modern techniques, styles and the finest ingredients.

In the evening, Valletta’s waterfront is a picturesque evening stroll, with a lively restaurant and Al Fresco dining scene.

Malta

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The medieval walled town of Mdina, known as the ‘Silent City’, is just thirty minutes away from Valetta. Mdina is thought to have been first inhabited by the Phoenicians in 700 B.C, and strolling through the narrow, maze-like streets is like onditions apply. Flights are sold on a back first come first served and limited number of seats are available at stepping in time.

Twobasis hundred metres on selected Gatwick and about Manchester flights. the views from the fortified sea level, bastions of Mdina are as striking as the churches, palaces and noble houses within its walls.

Located at the tip of Delimara Point, in the South of the island, St Peter’s Pool overlooks the picturesque fishing village of Marsaxlokk, in Marsaxlokk Bay. The area is incredibly beautiful and, luckily, it has somehow escaped the urbanisation around it, providing visitors with relatively unspoilt shoreline views. As there is no actual beach – just a large expanse of smooth rock perfect for sun bathing, reaching the clear water requires quite a plunge. Although popular with the locals, its unique features and location keep the larger crowds away and it is usually a calm place for a secluded swim – even though it does require a short trek. St Peter’s Pool provides some very good spots located this time on Malta’s sister island for snorkelling but is suitable only for good of Gozo: Qbajjar and Dwejra. The pebbly swimmers. beach of Qbajjar in the seaside resort of Another two beautiful rocky beaches are Marsalforn, allows you to combine relaxed sunbathing with history and local tradition.

Situated round the cove from the beach are rock-carved salt pans which are still in use since they were carved out of the limestone centuries ago. The jumping rock at Qbajjar is a great place to swim to an explore – being only a few meters away from the mainland: the narrow creek is a perfect plunge pool for those brave enough to dive off its top, a good five meters above sea level. Dwejra, on the other hand, is famous for its Azure Window – an arch and stack rock formation which offers a stunning panoramic view of the open waters beyond it. The deep, clear water is inviting and the adjacent Blue Hole is a gorgeous natural pool with crystalline waters and a fantastic scuba diving spot with a guarantee of some great underwater photography.

What’s more, this breathtaking location has

“Comino’s Blue Lagoon provides another spectacular shoreline with a combination of alternating rocky and sandy patches of narrow beach around a turquoise lagoon bedded with soft white sand”

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recently been immortalised as a backdrop to the Dothraki wedding between Drogo and Denearys in the TV adaptation of George R. L. Martin’s A Game of Thrones, along with other fantastic Maltese locations, and is now the default imaginary setting for several areas in the fictional Westeros and the Eastern Lands beyond the narrow sea.

Fantasy fiction enthusiasts world wide now regard these locations as integral to the setting of Martin’s epic masterpiece.

Comino’s Blue Lagoon provides another spectacular shoreline with a combination of alternating rocky and sandy patches of narrow beach around a turquoise lagoon bedded with soft white sand. This Mediterranean paradise was used in the filming of several movie scenes in the past too, the most recent being the epic Troy where the young Achilles has an earnest conversation with his mother. If it’s good enough for a demi-god, then it’s certainly not too shabby for the discerning tourist.

If sandy beaches are a must, then the

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The Great Western Adventure, By Rail Take the Amtrak Coast Starlight from Seattle to LA

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he West Coast offers some of the most spectacular views in North America, from the glittering Seattle skyline, past spectacular forests and snow-peaked mountains, right down to the sapphire-blue coast of LA. A 35-hour train journey might sound like a bit of a slog, especially if you happen to be a frequent commuter in the UK – but if you factor in the hundreds of miles of waterfalls, tree covered valleys, ravines and jagged coastlines just outside your window – then it may well be the most memorable 35 hours of your life.

Rail journeys may be slower than flying

or cruising, but nothing brings you closer to the terrain and the ever-changing nature of the landscape than a train. For thinkers and dreamers, a rail journey offers the perfect chance to sit back and enjoy the moment: to watch the world rush by and to know that you don’t have to do anything or be anywhere for once. All you have to do is find a comfortable seat and watch the landscape unfurl.

Your journey begins…

Your Amtrak journey to LA will begin at King Street Station in Seattle. This towering 108-year-old building is in itself a sight to

“For thinkers and dreamers, a rail journey offers the perfect chance to sit back and enjoy the moment” OCEAN VIEW 47

WDDP

behold. After a recent renovation project, the original ceiling (brilliant white, ornately plastered and based on the famous Salone dei Cinquecento in Florence) has finally been uncovered after architects concealed it behind a flat suspended ceiling in the ‘60s.

The Coast Starlight may not be a five star cruise ship but it does have plenty of first class amenities, good service and a Super Sleeping ticket option for extra comfort and privacy. Sleeper passengers can choose from three bedroom sizes, including a compact ‘Roomette’, a‘Bedroom’ with its own toilet and shower, a ‘Bedroom Suite’ for four to six people, a child-friendly ‘Family Bedroom’ and a ‘Superliner Accessible’ for those with disabilities. Sleeper tickets also come with complementary onboard Wifi, an alternative meal service and a special welcome gift – plus extra amenities including climate control, reading lights, fresh towels, soaps,

newspapers and a personal turndown service.

Relax or Socialise Sleeper passengers can go to relax, socialise or celebrate in the vintage first class Pacific Parlour Cars, featuring floor to ceiling windows, luxurious window-facing seats, a generously stocked bar, cinema and a dining room. Passengers can enjoy a continental breakfast here in the morning, and then a wine tasting experience in the afternoon that offers four generous samples of regional wine. For those travelling alone, the Parlour Cars and Sightseer Lounge (for all passengers) offer a good change to mingle with fellow passengers and make new friends.

“Every time you look out from a train, the world is new: nothing remains the same for long”

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Enjoy the Views Of course, rail journeys are hardly about the amenities inside the train. The most

extraordinary part is the magic happening outside the window. Every time you look out from a train, the world is new: nothing remains the same for long.

As the train chugs along the Washington/ Oregon state line, you will pass by huge and facinating industrial areas before the snow-capped Three Sisters Mountains come into view. Further down the line you will encounter Upper Klamath Lake – one of the largest freshwater lakes west of the Rockies at a staggering eight miles wide and 40 miles long. Once in California, the train passes through the Santa Clara Valley with the beautiful green Santa Cruse mountain range on the right. Later, you will discover Watsonville Junction ripe with apple orchards, strawberry fields and lettuce patches and soon after San Luis Obispo, the track joins the coast and reveals a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean, which passengers can enjoy unobstructed for 104 miles. Disembark at Los Angeles and enjoy the warm air and the charming mix of Spanish and Art Deco architecture.

What better place to end your journey than on the sundrenched Californian coast, with endless white beaches and the shining lights of Tinseltown beckoning you in?

WDDP Ocean View 13 19/12/2012 10:12 Page 1

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Get Set for Summer

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hether it’s an entire holiday wardrobe you’re looking for or something special for an important date on your summer calendar you don’t need to look any further than Gray & Osbourn’s latest collection. After 25 years of delivering quality, choice and confidence boosting style to their customers, Gray & Osbourn know more than a thing or two about dressing women for every occasion.

Gray & Osbourn take the fear factor out of trying new looks. Translating key trends from the runway to everyday and blending them effortlessly into your existing wardrobe.

Their own label collection is packed full of hand picked designs that you won’t find on your high street. Add to this page after page of the designer labels you love such as Gerry Weber, Body Frock, Apanage Betty Barclay and NYDJ. Each collection is carefully edited to suit every aspect of your lifestyle and is bursting with style tips and accessory suggestions to help you look and feel fabulous from top to toe.

Style Notes: With a lovely summery feel, this bold necklace is perfect to wear with lots of holiday looks.

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Cover Feature: CAptain’s Choice

Discover the World

by Private Jet Captain’s Choice private jet tours offer global travel at the height of luxury

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magine that you could travel the world without any hassle, without airport queues, without buying multiple tickets or having to plan anything much further than what you’re going to wear each day.

Now imagine that you’re setting off from Harrods terminal at Luton in a luxurious private jet, with good company and freeflowing champagne, towards some of the most breathtaking and exotic destinations on Earth. Could you ask for anything more?

Captain’s Choice has been crafting exclusive itineraries to far-flung destinations for over 40 years now, offering discerning travellers a luxurious way to immerse themselves in different cultures and places.

The cost of each trip covers everything, from overnight stays in five star hotels, to unlimited beer, wine and soft drinks onboard the aircraft and during dinner. To add to the luxury, guests are looked after by an experienced team of attendants throughout the trip, including a tour doctor who can provide immediate healthcare if necessary.

Perfect for solo travellers Travelling alone doesn’t have to be a lonely experience – in fact, far from it. On most Captain’s Choice tours, one third of passengers are solo travellers, and most find the whole experience a thoroughly social affair with plenty of chances to meet new people and make new friends. On the first or second night of the tour, all those joining the tour by themselves are invited to a special welcome reception to ease them into

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the group and help them get to know their fellow solo passengers. For those worried about dining or exploring places alone, the tour escort team will always be on-hand to talk to and dine with – unless of course you’d prefer to be left to your own devices, in which case you are quite welcome to retire to your room early for a quiet dinner, or go for a wander and explore the sights and sounds of a new place by yourself.

Smooth transitions Convenience is the crux of private jet travel.

All Captain’s Choice flights are planned carefully to transport passengers from place to place with no hassle, no undue waiting around and absolutely no discomfort. A good night sleep is absolutely essential when you are travelling to new places, as the whole experience is by nature very tiring. To help tour guests get the best night sleep possible, all flights are scheduled during the day so that by the time it’s time to go to bed, there is a luxurious five star hotel room available to retire to.

In addition, all itineraries are planned to minimise ground travel and get passengers as close to the destination as possible.

While travelling through airports, expedited immigration and customs clearance is organised to minimise queuing, and VIP airport lounges are used wherever possible to provide ultimate comfort and privacy while waiting to board. In addition to this, all luggage is taken care of and delivered to the hotel rooms before the tour group arrives

– so nobody need worry about lugging their things around from stop to stop.

Five new tours for 2014–2016 Five exciting new tours have been announced for 2014, all designed to take guests off the beaten tourist track and across some of the most breathtaking, fascinating and largely untravelled places on Earth. A wide range of truly aweinspiring experiences have been organised

by Captain’s Choice founder Phil Asker and his team, including elephant trips up the legendary Amber Fort in India, a visit to luxurious Turkish Baths in Istanbul, and wild lemur sighting in Madagascar.

Wherever you choose to go, you are sure to find something to sate your adventurous soul in these five Captain’s Choice itineraries.

Exotic India & Mountain Kingdoms 25 September – 13 October 2014 Oman – India – Nepal – Bhutan You will travel in business class on an Airbus A319 from the Harrods terminal at Luton Airport, London, with 43 fellow passengers for 19 very special days.

This tour takes guests on an inspiring journey through some of the most spiritual countries in the world, taking in the history, art, architecture and of course the culinary delights specific to these ancient nations.

The Silk Road & Beyond 3 September – 18 September 2014 OR 22 September – 8 October 2015

“While travelling through airports, expedited immigration and customs clearance is organised to minimise queuing, and VIP airport lounges are used wherever possible to provide ultimate comfort and privacy while waiting to board�

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Turkey – China – Uzbekistan – Armenia – Georgia – Azerbaijan or Ukraine You will travel in business class on an Airbus A319 from the Harrods terminal at Luton Airport, London, with 43 fellow passengers for either 16 days on the first tour, or 17 days on the second.

Travel the legendary silk road, following in the footsteps of Alexander the Great, Genghis Khan and Marco Polo. This is one of the oldest and most significant trade routes in history, carving through thousands of miles to connect the ancient empires of China and Rome.

Circumnavigation of The Globe 4 March – 26 March 2015 Mexico – Brazil – Easter Island – Tahiti – Australia – Cambodia – India – Tanzania You will travel on a Boeing 767 from the Harrods terminal at Luton Airport, London, 54 OCEAN VIEW

with 91 fellow passengers for either 22 days of pure luxury around the globe.

Heading west from the UK, you will discover a mix of cultures around the world, from ancient civilizations and extraordinary temples, to bustling metropolises and lively world-famous carnivals. These could quite possibly be the most diverse, breath-taking and eyeopening 22 days of your life.

Ultimate Africa 14 October 2014 – 7 November 2015 Ghana – Nambia – South Africa – Botswana – Zambia – Madagascar – Tanzania – Rwanda – Ethiopia You will travel on an Airbus A319 from the Harrods terminal at Luton Airport, London, with 43 fellow passengers for 25 days.

Discover the true heart of Africa on this 25-day trip zipping from country to country

in the luxury of a private jet. Sample a huge range of cultures, foods and landscapes, from the mighty Victoria Falls, to the lush plains and incredible diversity of wildlife in the huge Serengeti National Park.

Ultimate South America 8 April – 1 May 2016 Brazil – Falkland Islands – Chile – Argentina – Peru – Galapagos Islands – Bermuda This huge and diverse continent is hiding a wealth of wildlife, culture and staggeringly beautiful landscapes that the tourist industry has barely touched. This tour takes guests all across South America, including a three day cruise to see the unique wildlife on the Galapagos islands, a trip to the cosmopolitan cities of Rio and Beunos Aires, and a fascinating visit to the sub-tropical island of Bermuda.

Cover Feature: CAptain’s Choice

What is included in the tour price?

All travel, including transfers • Five star accommodation, or the best available (sometimes in remote locations five star is not possible) at every destination • Informative sightseeing with local guides, including entrance fees • All meals, including regional banquets and entertainment • Drinks with dinner and bottled water whilst sightseeing • All tipping and taxes • A tour doctor • Personalised attention from an experienced team • All luggage arrangements • Activity programme with a choice of dining and sightseeing options There are no hidden costs and many travellers find they don’t have to spend a single penny while away – unless of course they wish to bring souvenirs home for family and friends.

All five tours are meticulously planned to offer travellers the best the world has to offer. They offer a chance to experience things that most people can only ever imagine experiencing. Captain’s Choice goes far beyond a holiday – these tours offer passengers a life affirming experience; a chance to become more aware of different places, people, cultures, landscapes and ways of life that seem so far from our own. And all of this enjoyed in luxurious surroundings, amongst friendly people, and looked after by experienced staff.

To find out more and to book your place on a private jet tour today, please visit the Captain’s Choice website at www.captainschoice.co.uk, or give the UK team a call on 0800 012 6627 to ask for a brochure.

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Scotland A Weekend in…

Brief, fleeting… but worth every second

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hen time is precious and life is full, a short break away is often the most practical option. You don’t need to travel far to explore new landscapes and ‘get away from it all’. There are many stunning land and cityscapes right here in the UK – and no more so than in our northernmost country, the mighty land of the Scots. This year is the Year of Homecoming in Scotland, a celebration of everything great about these craggy, ancient lands. So what better time to plan a spring or summer visit than right now?

A weekend in Edinburgh Fly from Gatwick, Luton, or Stansted in 1 hour 15.

Enjoy a weekend of history, culture and dramatic architecture in Edinburgh.

Explore the mysteries of the Old Town with its towering medieval houses and winding

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streets, or head to the New Town in all its Georgian splendor to mingle with the young bright things in trendy bars and Michelin star restaurants.

Where to stay: The Witchery by the castle.

Formerly a rundown 16th century building on the Royal Mile, the Witchery was soon bought by renowned Scottish hotelier James Thomson and transformed into an opulent boutique hotel. The interiors are dramatically sumptuous and crammed with dark antiques, heavy fabrics and wood panelling. The atmosphere is terrific and rooms start from £325, including breakfast and a champagne hamper. Call 0131 225 5613 to book a room.

What to see: You can’t leave Edinburgh without visiting its craggy hilltop castle.

The iconic building looms dramatically

over the whole city like a scene from a gothic fairytale. Wander through its great rooms and museums to discover more about its fascinating past as an iron-age fort, a home to Scottish monarchs and an army headquarters in the 1600s.

Where to eat: Edinburgh boasts five Michelin star restaurants, including the Castle Terrace nestled in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle. Here you can sample local Scottish ingredients prepared with a French twist and presented in true haut cuisine style. Try Tartare of Loch Duart salmon served sushi style, or how about seared hand-dived Orkney scallops served with a pissaladière and wild roquette? Book a table (+44) 0131 229 1222.

A weekend of walking Fly to Inverness from Gatwick or Luton in 1

hour 40. Scotland is world famous for its staggeringly beautiful landscapes. The countryside is peppered with glassy lochs, snow-peaked mountains, ancient castles and rugged coastlines all waiting to be explored.

Grab some sturdy walking boots, an OS map, a canteen full of tea and of course a packet of shortbread – and head out to the world famous Highlands near Inverness.

Where to stay: The Dower House Enjoy log fires, fresh flowers and pretty furnishings in this small 18th century guesthouse set in beautiful gardens bursting with foliage. The Dower House offers a cosy home-from-home and a great base from which to explore the stunning surrounding landscape. Book a room 01463 870090.

What to see: How can you stay within mere miles of the most famous loch in the world without making a visit? Loch Ness is 20 miles long, a mile wide and 700 feet deep – making it the largest lake in Scotland by volume. While it is of course home to the famous legend of the Loch Ness monster, there are many other reasons to visit this stunning landmark.

Here there is plenty to keep the outdoor types occupied, including golf, walking trails, boat trips and fishing – all set against the staggering backdrop of the misty mountains.

Where to eat: Dine like a royal at the Ceder Tree restaurant at Bunchrew House.

With its pale pink walls and elegant turrets, this sprawling house could be straight from a gothic romance – and the paneled walls and opulent dining room do nothing to shake the illusion. Friendly staff serve delicious Scottish food with a modern twist alongside carefully selected wines.

To top it off, the menu changes every night so each visit is unique.

Whether you opt for a flyaway city break, or a relaxing weekend in the Highlands, you’re sure to enjoy your short break in Scotland.

Plymouth Hoe, Devon

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Competition

WIN!

The Geneva Sound System Model XS DAB+

You could win:

The Geneva Sound System Model XS DAB+, it is a beautifully compact Bluetooth-enabled hi- fi sound system built for travellers. Within its tiny, distinctive clamshell case is an entire system of speakers, amplifiers, FM/ DAB/DAB+ radio and alarm clock - all in a single rechargeable unit.

Take it anywhere to transform the sound from smartphones, tablets and laptops. It’s designed with clever digital technology to fill a room with hi-fi quality sound. Its sturdy, waterproof clamshell case in red, white or black faux leather flips open to reveal a slender piano lacquered cabinet featuring the brand’s distinctive domed grille.

Model XS DAB+ – Bluetooth, FM, DAB/DAB+, Alarm Clock, Speakers, Amplifier. All-in-One. • 2.1 speaker system with two 1” tweeters and one 21⁄4” woofer • Bluetooth for wireless audio streaming • When in Bluetooth and Line-in mode powered by digital amplifier for optimal audio performance; when in FM mode powered by analogue amplifier for optimal radio reception • Each speaker individually powered and chambered for accurate acoustics • Rechargeable lithium battery with more than 5 hours play-time • Digital FM and DAB/DAB+ radio tuner with auto search function • Digital clock with alarm • LED display for volume/mode/frequency • TouchLight controls – backlit, touch-sensitive • Stereo mini line-in jack for external audio Included Accessories • AC power adapter with cable • Rechargeable 2700 mA lithium battery • Adaptor cable for stereo mini line-in: 3.5 mm (1⁄8 inch) plugs on both ends Size and Weight • Width × height × depth (when open): 15.7 cm × 10.2 cm × 11.5 cm (6.2” × 4” × 4.5”) • Weight: 0.5 kg

When you’ve got it, simply email the answer with the subject line ‘competition’, to lottie@oceanviewuk.co.uk. Alternatively, send a postcard with the page number to Lottie Dowdeswell, Park View House, 19 The Avenue, Eastbourne, East Sussex, BN21 3YD. Don’t forget to include your contact details so that we can let you know if you’re one of our lucky winners!

All you need to do, to be in for a chance of winning is answer this simple question:

What is Korea’s Oldest Port?

a) Jeju b) Busan c) Incheon

Closing Date: Friday 27th June 2014 Winners will be drawn from correct answers a week after the closing date. Good Luck!

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ABP

No connections, no long walks, no hassle Cruise terminal car parking from ABParking

20% of all with booking f

oCE promo c s o ANV IEW de 2013 *

Book now to park closest to your cruise

Ocean Gate, Atlantic Way, Southampton, SO14 3QN

ABP6214 ABParking Advert v3.indd 1

www.abparking.co.uk +44 (0) 844 880 6848 *

20% off full price car parking in the Port of Southampton at www.abparking.co.uk Offer is subject to availability and valid only for the following cruise lines: Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises and Fred Olsen. Offer valid on all bookings made by 31st January 2014. If you have any questions please contact us on the ABParking number.

OCEAN VIEW 59

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C

ircumnavigate the globe with us by Private Jet, and you may recognise a few old faces.

The immense and enigmatic Moai statues of Easter Island are just one of the amazing sights you’ll see on this unique 22 day tour. Travelling aboard our private jet you will experience many of the world’s most remarkable sights, peoples and cultures, visiting the Americas, Australia, Asia, Africa and Europe. You will travel in unparalled luxury staying in the finest accommodation without all the hassles of normal air travel.

The tour departs on 4 March 2015 and prices start from £34,850 per person.

CALL 0800 012 6627

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21/05/2014 14:36