Mark Warner Magazine 2007 by Mark Warner Ltd

The issuE spring/suMMEr 2007

magazine Be inspired, be there

get intO tHerapy

The relaxing way to shape up

just add water

Find your sea legs on holiday

OF tHe Best

tee party ExcLUSivE diScoUntS for golfErs

Greece rEsort highlights

is thE word

Why it’s time to re-think an old favourite

PLUS: Egypt Æ tEnnis Æ corsica Æ nEw flight routEs

Contents what’s inside > issue one > > >

Welcome

with summer just around the corner, thoughts naturally turn to getting away from it all. find out in this brandnew magazine what inspired more than 60,000 people to book a mark warner holiday last year. there are also details of the new developments we hope will keep our guests coming back for more. mark warner really does cater for everyone. whether you want an active, chilled out, social or just plain indulgent time, flip through the following pages and we are sure you’ll find something that inspires you.

bulletin The latest developments from Mark Warner resorts

island in the sun Tantalise your tastebuds at the revamped resort in Corsica Well above par Details of the five topclass golf courses on The Ocean Club’s doorstep in Portugal discover greece It’s time to re-think this most-versatile of family holiday destinations

Well healed Discover alternative therapies at Viva salons living the dream One Mark Warner employee’s voyage of a lifetime hit the Waves The watersports to try at Mark Warner, plus some cutting-edge equipment

focus on egypt Essential information about this must-visit destination, plus your Mark Warner directory

Published on behalf of Mark Warner by WordWide, 020 7841 8720, www.word-wide.co.uk, Managing Director: John Chadwick-Jones, Account Director: Matthew Jenns, Editor: Angela Barrett, Art Director: Jane Walker For Mark Warner: Nigel Ragg and Sue Thomas. The views expressed are not necessarily those of Mark Warner. While every care is taken to ensure the accuracy of the information contained within, Mark Warner cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions and reserves the right to make changes and correct errors in advertised prices before a holiday is confirmed.

New flight routes Services available from Bristol and the Midlands

ood news for UK holidaymakers: Mark Warner is now flying from Bristol airport to Sharm el Sheikh in Egypt, and from East Midlands airport to Kalamata on mainland Greece. The Bristol route serves the Bedouin oasis resort of Dahab, while the East Midlands route takes people to Mark Warner’s flagship resort of San Agostino in Greece. This brings the number

of regional airports Mark Warner uses to seven, with holidaymakers already flying from Birmingham, Gatwick, Manchester, Newcastle and Stansted. “Our guests want more flexibility and prefer to travel to airports closer to home than Gatwick,” explains flight operations manager, Rachel Storr. The majority of Mark Warner charter flights are operated by Excel Airways.

look! latest mark warner news >

Info in brief Mark Warner has been ringing the changes. Book a holiday this year and you’ll find… ✣ Mountain bikes – now available at the greek resort paleros. why not take a sunrise and sunset bike ride of the local area? ✣ sun loungeRs – no more towels at dawn. there are now more sunbeds at all beach resorts in response to customer feedback ✣ guests can book a room in the location of their choice for a small extra charge ✣ gift voucheRs are now available – give them to friends and family to put towards the cost of their

mark warner summer holiday. Visit www.markwarner.co.uk for more details or to purchase ✣ WateRskiing and WakeboaRding are fRee at paleros, in greece ✣ neW cutting-edge sailing equipment – mark warner has invested in a range of equipment across all resorts. see page 11 ✣ the san lucianu ResoRt in Corsica has been upgraded and, alongside other improvements, now boasts a new chef. see page 4 for more details www.markwarner.co.uk

what’s new focus on egypt > turn to page 12 for more details >>>>

Resort update The latest news from Mark Warner

Ñ BEST FOR TENNIS Lakitira is the best tennis resort in Europe, according to the UK’s best-selling tennis title Ace Magazine. It is the second year running that the Greek resort has won the award. “Mark Warner’s resort of Lakitira, with its emphasis on family fun, but excellent provision of tennis resources and coaching, remains our European number one,” said the report. In total, 26 resorts were in the running and Lakitira beat destinations such as La Manga and Vale de Lobo. Lakitira was also named the best European tennis resort for families. Ñ JOIN THE ELITE If you enjoy the more NEW luxurious things in life, Mark Warner now offers a new, special package of extras to make your holiday even more enjoyable. Before you even get to your destination the Elite package provides pre-booked flight seats and private transfer between the airport and resort. Then, when

you arrive, your room will be equipped with various extras. These include a fruit basket, bathrobe and slippers, luxury toiletries, a CD player, tea and coffee making facilities and extra large beach towels. The new package costs £100 per person for one week’s holiday and £125 per person for two weeks’ holiday. It also includes a £50 holiday voucher redeemable against your next Mark Warner booking. To get the Elite package call 0870 770 4223 to pre-book.

golF

play a round at palmeras or any of the top golf courses near the ocean club in portugal

sip a cocktail in one of our lively beach bars

iva V 5 Salons Ñ A KLASS AcT Presenter Myleene Klass recently hit the slopes of Val d’Isere for a series of reports aired on GMTV in February. Myleene stayed at the Mark Warner resort Hotel Le Val d’Isère and a slice of her report focused on the excellent childcare facilities there. “Kids are collected in the morning and taken to ski school or looked after in the crèche,” she said. “It gives parents some much-earned freedom.”Myleene was also rather taken with the hotel’s outdoor pool. “I can’t believe I swam outside,” she said. “It was actually snowing!”

Seen something you like? if you have seen something on these pages that has whet your appetite, you can find more details about all Mark Warner beach resorts by going online to www.markwarner.co.uk/mag or by calling 0870 899 8802.

www.markwarner.co.uk

things not to miss at mark warner this season...

mark warner beauty therapists have been trained using elemis, dermalogica and redken products

DON’T MISS

get in the water

try out aqua aerobics at any number of our resorts

6 4

Sail with a RYA ctor qualified instru

baby ON boarD?

all resorts in the med have 24hour kitchens with microwaves, sterilisers and uht whole milk

7 8 Super nannies

Qualified childcare staff are on hand at all mark warner resorts so parents can have a relaxing time

FUN CLUB

take a tenniS leSSon – pre- book a course before you depart

Scuba Diving first time? try a free taster session in the swimming pool

liMbeRup

take a pilates or Yoga class and let your body feel the benefit 03

San Lucianu St Florent

Islandsun in the

Seasoned traveller Rowena Carr-Allinson stimulates her senses on Corsica

ith 600 miles of unspoilt coastline, Corsica, the tiny island to the south of France, is Europe’s answer to the Caribbean with glorious beaches, dramatic cliffs and shimmering turquoise waters. Awkward to navigate, this mountainous island has kept its wild side with many of its palm-fringed coves accessible only by boat. The newly revamped Mark Warner resort, San Lucianu, is ideally located for exploring the beautiful Castagniccia region, christened the ‘Costa Verde’ by locals. Just a half hour drive away from the airport and the 15th-century harbour town of Bastia, the Hotel San Lucianu is also close to the seafront town of Moriani Plage, set on a 14km stretch of sand. Its proximity to the sea is one of the things that has new San Lucianu Head Chef Paul Cowell excited. “The local Corsican seafood is amazing,” he says. “It’s caught in the morning and you are eating it in the evening. I will definitely be taking advantage of that when I draw up the menus for the resort’s restaurant.” Beyond Mark Warner’s popular watersports, there is plenty to do on dry

land. Corsica is a hiker’s paradise. With almost a third of the island protected as it is a ‘Parc Naturel’, there is no shortage of places to escape to. Take a break from sailing, windsurfing or tennis and head into the fragrant shady pine forests. Venture off the property to discover the hiking trails, the waterfalls of Ucelluline and the picturesque villages of Venzolasca, Cocola or Bonaldo. The flora is unique: the ‘maquis’ gives off intoxicating natural aromas aplenty. Sweetly spicy wild strawberry trees, lavender, juniper, wild olives, heather and honeysuckle grow haphazardly. The herbs that spice up local dishes also grow wild and add exotic fragrances to the atmosphere: sage, mint, thyme and even marjoram. This distinctive heady scent has earned Corsica the nickname of ‘Perfumed Island.’ Once you have worked up an appetite exploring the island by foot, you can continue the sensory experience in San Lucianu’s restaurant. “I always use a lot of fresh, local herbs in my dishes, so the food at San Lucianu will be very Mediterranean.” says Paul. “And for the most part, meals can be enjoyed alfresco here.” Perfect for enjoying that fragrant air.

After a hard day’s exploring it’s a good idea to have an apéritif After a hard day’s exploring, it’s a good idea to adopt the apèritif tradition. Most civilised, it’s the best time of the day when the sun sets and the air cools. Sip on the sweet Corsican Muscat with a side order of cold cuts of pork like Figatelli, Lonzu, Coppa, Prizuttu or simple saucisson before heading back to the restaurant to sample Paul’s cuisine. And of course there’s the wine. Try the local light rosé gris, which isn’t grey but definitely pink. Best, chilled with a view! Or sample the rather heavier but tasty reds from the nearby Domaine Vico, which has been making wine for 2,500 years. Practise makes perfect. With 23 years’ cooking experience under his belt, Paul is also well-practised – great news for visitors who love their food.

Fancy a taste of island life? If all this talk of food has whet your appetite and you would like more details about San Lucianu visit www.markwarner.co.uk/mag or call 0870 899 8802. Prices start from £620* per adult. * Price based on one week leaving 23 September, flying from Gatwick.

www.markwarner.co.uk

Golf

Wellabove par Within easy reach of some of the best golf courses in the Algarve – The Ocean Club in Portugal is a breed apart

Penina ChamPionshiP Par 73 Green fees: €110* Requirements: handicap certificate (maximum 28 for men, 32 for women). Dress code: soft spikes. the course: the first course to be built in the Algarve, it was designed by the late Sir Henry Cotton, triple champion of the British open, and was completed in 1966. Towering pines and massive eucalyptus trees give the course a unique and different character. signature hole: of the 18 holes, the most memorable on this course is the par-3 13th – a lake borders the right hand side, coming into play off the back tees. The sloping green is guarded front and to the left by a pair of bunkers.

www.markwarner.co.uk

proximity to some of the best golf courses in the Algarve. Golfers can take advantage of discounts on the cost of a round when they book through the resort – it’s possible to arrange a game through the Ocean Club’s 24hour reception on arrival – and all the courses are a short car journey away from the resort.

Anyone for golf? Visit www.markwarner.co.uk/mag or call 0870 899 8802 to find out more about the Ocean Club. Prices from £ 5* per adult. * Price based on one week leaving 13 October, flying from Gatwick.

Boavista

PalmaRes

Par 70 Green fees: €70 (with Mark Warner discount €50.50)*. Requirements: handicap certificate (maximum 24 for men, 36 for women). Dress code: collared shirts and soft spikes. the course: set overlooking the historic town of Lagos, Boavista Golf opened in January 2002. The designer of the course, Howard Swan’s philosophy “to create a course as if it has always been there”, has been sensitively applied preserving, integrating and harmonising with the area’s natural terrain. signature hole: weaving between bunkers and water hazards, the stunning par-4 7th on the outward nine has beautiful views of the ocean.

Par 71 Green Fees: €89 (with Mark Warner discount €73)*. Requirements: handicap certificate (maximum 28 for men, 36 for women). Dress code: collared shirts and soft spikes. the course: some say that Palmares is the jewel in the crown of the Algarve. This Frank Pennink-designed course enjoys a beautiful location, near Lagos, commanding magnificent views of Lagos bay and the distant Monchique hills. signature hole: five of the 18 holes are situated on sand dunes along the Atlantic coast on the Meia Praia beach. The 5th hole is, without a doubt, one of the most outstanding links holes in Europe.

PaRque De FloResta Par 71 (men) Par 72 (women) Green Fees: €70 (with Mark Warner discount €54)*. Requirements: handicaps of 28 for men and 36 for women only required for competitions. Dress code: collared shirts, soft spikes. the course: designed by the Spanish architect Gancedo, who believes in minimal alteration of the existing terrain. As a result, Parque de Floresta is a rugged course. The course is notorious for its sloping fairways, large ravines and buggy tracks. signature hole: The 5th, a 123 yard par 3, is surrounded by bunkers, which makes an accurate tee shot essential.

moRGaDo Par 73 Green fees: €85 (with Mark Warner discount €60)*. Requirements: handicap certificate (maximum 24 for men, 28 for women). Dress code: soft spikes. the Course: the newest golfing destination in the Algrave, Morgado now boasts two courses. Lying to the north of Portimão, it is laid out in a large 980-hectare estate through small, undulating valleys. signature hole: On this 6,998-yard long course, 415-yard par-4 18th is the trickiest. The accuracy of shots will be tested by deep, aggressive bunkers to the right of the fairway beside the pine trees. The spectacular view of the clubhouse from the tee serves as a pay-off.

*All green fees and discounts are for high season

he Ocean Club beach resort is centred around a working village giving guests the best of both worlds – top-notch activities and facilities, coupled with the traditional bars and cafes that line the picturesque cobbled streets of Praia da Luz. The main draw for this resort, however, is its

Destination

DISCOVER GREECE Blue sea, perfect sun, endless beaches – an old favourite is back in vogue

t’s been a while since Willy Russell’s Shirley Valentine forged the image of dusty Greek tavernas and hirsute waiters in lonely housewives’ minds. So, it seems a shame that many holidaymakers are shunning Greece when booking their summer hols in favour of what they consider to be more hip destinations. The Athens Olympics in 2004 injected some much-needed investment in the country’s infrastructure, but more importantly, proved to a sceptical world that Greece was indeed a 21st century nation. Combine its modern-day comforts with a rich history spanning back 5,000 years and you have a unique destination on your hands. Reason enough to rediscover an old favourite. Mark Warner has three Greek resorts: San Agostino and Paleros on the mainland, which both boast miles of unspoilt coastline, and Lakitira on Kos Island. All cater for everyone’s holiday tastes, be they families, sporty types, or those just wanting to relax. 06

Ease of reach from the UK and a reliable climate make Greece a terrific choice In Greece you can relax on remote beaches or explore rocky mountains and stunning scenery. You can wander among olive groves, or stroll through ancient ruins – San Agostino is just two hours’ drive from the site of the ancient city of Olympia, which should appeal to anyone with a penchant for history. If kids make the thought of a car journey unbearable, San Agostino is located on a stunning stretch of uncrowded beach on the West Coast of Greece and the conditions are perfect for sailing and windsurfing – so visitors can soak

up the beauty of the country and fill their days with fun activities at the same time. Another bonus for families is the short journey time to Greece – less than four hours by plane. The resort of Paleros is then only half an hour away from Preveza airport. The atmosphere in Paleros is child-friendly, however kids’ activities do take place in designated areas leaving adults in peace. Lakitira also benefits from child-free zones, such as designated areas at the hotel that are adult only and plenty of quiet areas in which to relax, including the adult beach and beach bar. Perfect for couples on a romantic break. A long experience in tourism, coupled with ease of reach from the UK and a reliable climate make Greece a terrific choice for a family holiday. If Greece wasn’t top of your list for holiday choices, maybe it’s time to give it a second look. See the opposite page for just some of the highlights at Mark Warner’s Greek resorts… www.markwarner.co.uk

Destination

What do you Want from your greek holiday?

faMIly UNIt

MR & MRS

In a couple? family holiday? there’s something for everyone at a Mark Warner resort GREat fOOD

NIGhtlIfE

PEaCE & qUIEt

lOCal SIGhtS

aCtIVItIES

Check out the taverna at San agoStino. Its great menu gives couples plenty of Food for local gourmets choice.

An authentic taverna restaurant in Lakitira serves local dishes and regional specialities. And it’s for grown-ups only, meaning a break from the kids.

For long, late DON’T nights and S undisturbed MIS mornings, stay in the adult-only area of rooms in San agoStino.

The coastal road from PaLeroS takes you to Agios Petros, with its ruins of ancient temples, while on the hill above a ruined medieval castle stands near a chapel.

Play each other at tennis on one of the eleven full-sized courts at Lakitira. And floodlighting means you can play well into the cool of the night.

The reStaurantS at all resorts cater for mums and dads, and the kids. Some meals are for adults only, giving mum and dad a well-deserved break, while others are just for kids.

Enjoy child-friendly bars in San agoStino or evening entertainment for kids.

ChiLdCare is available at all resorts. This includes baby clubs (4-11 months), toddlers (1-2yrs), minis (3-5yrs), juniors (6-9yrs), kidz (10-13yrs) and young adults (14-17yrs).

From Lakitira take a ferry ride to Turkey. It’s a full day out, but a great chance to see another culture and one that will keep families on the lookout for new sights and sounds.

At PaLeroS Beach Resort, kids don’t only have their own section of the beach, they also have their own pontoon and waterfront play area.

From Lakitira you are in easy reach of Kardamena, a town just a few kilometres along the coast. The resort is full of bars discos, and DON’T MISS nightclubs.

Across Greece, the Greek Orthodox religion has produced many striking churches. These offer a cool, quiet haven from the heat of the day, as well as very distinctive architecture.

heaLthy food is available at all our resorts, so you’ll have lots of ways to eat well on your holiday. Combine that with fitness classes and sports coaching, and you have the perfect healthy break.

Play tennis into the night at San agoStino where its floodlit courts mean you don’t have to stop at sun down. Little compares to a game while the sun sets – and the thought of a cool drink!

If all that tennis has left you feeling a bit stiff, why not have a sports massage in the Viva salon?

All Mark Warner resorts offer great restaurant choices, be it for families or couples. San agoStino has an outside dining area with a superb view of the sunset. Great for lovers of the outdoors.

The wide sandy beach at San agoStino provides all beach bums could want – loungers, views and Hit the a great bar! beach

If all that salt water has played havoc with your hair the ViVa SaLonS at all the Greek beach resorts offer a range of hair treatments. Alternatively, stay bikini-tastic with a wax.

SPORt BIlly

Day tRIPPER

Breakfast in the resort is a great way to start a fun day out exploring.

BEaCh BUM

Local eateries

Excellent excursions

Healing hands

Ancient ruins

FUN CLUB

San agoStino is very close to the ruins of Olympia, the mythical home of the Gods.

Book a day trip to Lefkada Island from PaLeroS to see two of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. You can also visit the nearby historic towns of Preveza and Vonitsa.

The light breezes and calm waters of PaLeroS bay make it ideal for waterskiing, which is free at the resort. The views are also great, meaning you can practice in a picture-postcard setting.

San agoStino has its own sailing centre, with Safe a fully kitted- sailing out waterfront for all abilities, including children.

PaLeroS includes spectacular mountain views stretching into the distance. Enjoy It’s the the bar perfect setting to unwind.

Spread over four acres of lush gardens and two separate beach areas, Lakitira provides the perfect setting for you to unwind. And with child-free zones, you can get all the peace and quiet you crave.

BOOK a GREat ValUE hOlIDay >> by calling 0870 899 8802 or visiting www.markwarner.co.uk/mag

www.markwarner.co.uk

Alternative therapy

Well healed Relax body and mind at a Mark Warner resort Viva salon

ne in three people in the UK now use alternative therapies to give themselves a boost. Aromatherapy treatments and massage, whether the aim is to simply de-stress or address ongoing medical conditions, can be beneficial for all age groups. Combine these treatments with some light exercise, such as yoga, Pilates or T’ai Chi and you could be well on your way to kick-starting a refreshed and revitalised new you. The best news is that you can try these treatments while you are in the sunny surroundings of your holiday. A number of Mark Warner resorts have a Viva health and beauty salon. Viva salons offer a wide variety of alternative treatments and beauty staples, from stress-busting massages to rejuvenating facials. There are also qualified instructors on hand to take even the most inexperienced novice through their first yoga or Pilates class. So no need to be nervous. 08

a sensual aromaTic experience

Aromatherapy is effective and ever-popular because it not only has the power to relax, invigorate and change moods, but it does so by accessing the most acute sense we possess – smell. “Different oils have a different effect on the emotions,” explains Viva Consultant for Mark Warner, Anna Holden. “The scent of jasmine can make you feel excited, while basil and peppermint are uplifting. One of the best things about aromatherapy is that it can be tailored to address your specific needs.” Over time, our senses dull, so it’s great to keep them working as much as possible. Aromatherapy has the power to bring back happy memories, sap stress and tension, boost brain-power and improve emotional wellbeing, by using a whole host of plant extracts and soothing essential oils. “Aromatherapy can treat a variety of conditions, such as minor skin abrasions, viral infections and pain

syndromes,” says Anna. “By relaxing or stimulating the nervous system, fragrances can also raise or lower blood pressure.”

why massage maTTers

When stressed or not very active, our muscles can become weak. A relaxing and luxurious full-body massage rejuvenates your blood flow, which helps release feel-good endorphins that will help you smile on the inside and out. What’s more, a good rub down aids the lymphatic system responsible for ditching toxins from your body, which may come in useful if you’ve hit the Mark Warner cocktail bar the night before! Most noticeably, massage helps zap the dreaded orange peel that so often takes permanent residence in the thighs and buttocks.

a TasTe of The easT

T’ai Chi is an ancient martial art from the Far East with its roots in Asian philosophy. A ‘softwww.markwarner.co.uk

Alternative therapy Anna recommends… ✣ San agoStino

yoga helps you to de-stress and relax style’ martial art, practitioners of T’ai Chi believe that the mind is the most important single factor in dealing will all areas of life successfully. A qualified teacher will work on the ability to centre the mind with a view to becoming less distracted or confused. The physical side of T’ai Chi focuses on a series of graceful, co-ordinated moves and it is particularly beneficial for people in middle or older age. It increases the body’s range of movement, aids relaxation, reduces stress and assists with good balance and posture. Guests visiting the Hilton Hotel & Spa in Mauritius with Mark Warner can luxuriate in its well-equipped spa, which offers lessons in T’ai Chi with qualified instructors.

The power of pilaTes

Pilates is a complete exercise method, which focuses on building up body strength and improving posture through low-repetition, low-impact stretching and conditioning exercises. It’s a very effective form of exercise particularly suitable for people who haven’t trained for a while, and is easily accessible to all ages, so there’s no excuse! You’ll build up muscle strength, stamina and flexibility without being puffed out and it’s particularly beneficial to your heart and lungs. Breathing techniques are also a big part of Pilates, helping oxygen to travel around the body as well as boosting your energy levels. If you suffer any aches and pains, joint inflammation, swelling, arthritis and body tension, it’s bound

Take an outdoor pilates class www.markwarner.co.uk

a central salon in the hotel’s main lobby with various treatment rooms that offer a range of Elemis treatments, including the mother-to-be massage on a bean bag. Dermalogica face-mapping consultations, tailored treatments and Elemis anti-ageing beauty specialists are available to offer you personalised skin-care and UV sun-damage advice, with related therapy and treatments, while on holiday. the salon carries a full range of Elemis and Dermalogica products and you could surprise a loved one with a voucher for a special occasion or treat on their holiday. try the delicious face and body Chocolate therapy where pure dark chocolate is melted and applied as an antioxidant then combined with an oxygenreleasing liquid masque – it smells divine!

✣ Lakitira this is our largest Viva service within the Mark Warner hotels, where we can pamper you with detoxifying Elemis body treatments, Dermalogica facials to prepare your skin for the Mediterranean climate, together with hair treatments, colour systems and re-styles and head massage. new to Summer 2007 is our signature Viva treatment Hawaiian Hands, where two therapists complete a synchronised massage for the ultimate relaxation experience. Both of the above resorts offer Pilates in outdoor arenas, available to provide an alternative low-impact form of exercise. our instructors can offer everything from a complementary taster for newcomers, daily group introductory and improver courses to one-on-one individual tuition in the comfort of the hotel environment.

to suit you. And, because it boosts blood circulation, it also improves bone density, so helps fight and prevent osteoporosis.

spiriTual flexibiliTy

“Yoga and its cleansing practices have proven to be extremely effective for various disorders,” suggests Anna. The system of postures, special breathing techniques and relaxation has significant health benefits. One of the reasons yoga is so good is because it encourages deep breathing, which increases the amount of oxygen in the body. As we get older, or when we’re stressed out, breathing becomes shallower. Yoga helps you fill your lungs properly and, as oxygen is required for every cell in your body, the more there is in your system, the better you feel. Yoga acts in a wholesome manner on the various body parts. This stimulation and massage of the organs in turn benefits us by keeping away disease and providing a forewarning at the first possible instance of a likely onset of disease or disorder. “Yoga is perhaps the only form of activity that massages all the internal glands and organs of the body in a thorough manner, including those such as the prostate that hardly gets externally stimulated during our entire lifetime,” says Anna. “By gently stretching muscles and joints as well as massaging the various organs, yoga ensures the optimum blood supply to various parts of the body. This helps in the flushing out of toxins from every nook and cranny as well as providing nourishment up to the last point. This leads to such benefits as delayed ageing, energy and a remarkable zest for life, not to mention excellent toning of muscles.”

some TreaTmenTs aT viva salons… > Full body massage > Stone therapy > Prescription facials > Aromatherapy > Body wraps > Manicures and hand treatments > Pedicures > Eyebrow shaping and tinting > Waxing

✣ oCEan CLUB in PortUgaL

Want more details?

Exclusively offers pre- and post-exercise sports massage therapy in a beach cabaña setting. Pre-sports massages are designed to warm up your muscles and reduce the risk of strain, while post-exercise treatments help alleviate aches or any injuries.

If you want to find out more about the health and beauty treatments mentioned, then check out what’s on offer at Mark Warner resorts by visiting www.markwarner.co.uk/mag or call 0870 899 8802.

Real life Hitched up for the night, a world away from pay and display!

Cooling off and chilling out…

Italy - just beautiful...

LIVINGthE drEam Working for Mark Warner inspired the company’s marketing and press co-ordinator Sue Thomas to embark on a voyage of a lifetime… When I worked for Mark Warner in Greece, I used to take a seven-hour coastal taxi journey between the two resorts and I’d always dream about taking a boat instead. That was as far as it went, and I never thought about it seriously. “My husband is a boat builder, so sailing was already a big part of his life, but we never had any sailing ambitions together. But a sudden death in his family made us reassess life. We decided to do something for us, so we bought a boat and took a sabbatical. “We worked out what we could spend and, at the end of the 2003 season, bought a small sailing boat in Greece. By April 2004, we were on our way to Athens in our boat through the Corinth canal, stopping off at several islands. We headed back to the UK for winter, leaving the boat near the Mark Warner resort of Paleros, ready for our travels the following May. “Before we knew it we were setting off again. We headed to Dubrovnik via Corfu and spent the summer sailing around Croatia and northern Italy, where we again left our boat and went back to England. In April 2006, we sailed into Venice, then travelled the east coast of Italy around Sicily, Corsica and Sardinia, which is where the boat is now, awaiting our return in May when we sail it back to England. “It’s all been a dream – I still have to pinch myself when I think about it. One of the highlights for me has to be seeing the active volcano on the Isle of Stromboli. The dolphins 10

Catching dinner!

Nothing beats watching a sunset with a cold glass of wine were amazing, too – I’ll never tire of watching them swim. The best thing was the peace and quiet – waking up, diving into the sea and being surrounded by nature. We went inland every four nights and saw some fantastic places, but nothing beats being in a bay, watching a sunset, with a cold glass of white wine – something we always made sure we’d stocked up on. “Of course we had a few hairy moments – mainly due to poor weather conditions,

and there were only a few times when I did wonder what we were doing and wished we’d bought a camper van instead. Our boat is only small at 26ft and it isn’t particularly luxurious – our shower is basically a bottle of water and there was no chance of having a hairdryer on board! Having said that, I’d like to do the same trip again but with a better equipped boat. That’s as far as my sailing ambition now goes – I have no desire to sail across the Atlantic! “We might be broke now, but at least we have the boat – which we can sell. I wouldn’t want to keep it in England as we’ve been completely spoiled because the sea in the Med is amazing. And after all that time together, my husband and I are still speaking – in fact, we’re closer than ever. “We’re lucky that my husband is selfemployed and that Mark Warner has invited me to come back to work every winter. If it hadn’t been for the company, I wouldn’t have had the dream in the first place – and I wouldn’t have been able to achieve it. And I did end up sailing that taxi route in Greece.”

Feeling inspired? If you’re a fan of sailing or other water sports, such as windsurfing or scuba-diving, check out what’s on offer at Mark Warner resorts by visiting www.markwarner.co.uk/mag or calling 0870 899 8802.

www.markwarner.co.uk

Water sports

hit the waves The brand-new haul of watersport equipment at Mark Warner promises some actionpacked holidays

atersports have Association of Diving Instructors) always been a dive schools and offer free key ingredient ‘discover scuba’ sessions in the in a Mark Warner beach swimming pool for first-timers. resort. This year, the For those wishing to not go company has invested in a quite so deep, snorkelling host of new dinghies, windsurf outings are available with an Explore the deep boards and wakeboards across instructor at Mark Warner’s Egyptian scuba-diving its Mediterranean resorts, in order resorts, Dahab and Abu Soma. to give guests the best experience possible. Expert tuition is on hand at each Mark Warner WIndsurfIng Most Mark Warner beach resorts are beach resort and free taster sessions give hotel ideal for windsurfers, thanks Tuition is on guests the chance to decide what sport is for hand if required them. It’s also possible to get the kids involved: to consistent cross-shore breezes. Improvers will Mark Warner runs a series of Royal Yachting benefit from free group Association (RYA) Youth Schemes aimed at windsurfing clinics that children and different levels of skill. take place throughout saIlIng the week. The This year, Mark Warner has broadened and windsurfing equipment upgraded its sailing equipment, investing in has been upgraded in brand new dinghies including a number of RS resorts around the Med and Tera dinghies (specially designed for younger Egypt, and now offer cuttingholidaymakers), four new RS 500 performance edge boards and sails, so experienced surfers dinghies available at Lakitira and San Agostino are guaranteed quality. beach resorts, and a brand-new Laser Bahia KItesurfIng sailboat, launched in January at this year’s London Boat Show, available at both the Ocean The British Kite Surfing Association (BKSA) has praised the taster courses available at the Club in Portugal and Dahab in Egypt. Mark Warner Egyptian resorts. International sCuba-dIvIng Kitesurfing Organisation-approved courses Whether it’s the safe waters of the Red Sea, for intermediate levels are available and the Mediterranean or tropical Mauritius, experienced kitesurfers can enjoy recreational a Mark Warner beach resort is the perfect kitesurfing at Mark Warner beach resorts, place to learn to scuba-dive. All Mark Warner Abu Soma and Dahab in Egypt, and dive centres work with PADI (Professional San Agostino in Greece.

www.markwarner.co.uk

WatersKIIng

As the first overseas tour operator to be officially recognised by the British Water Ski Federation as an approved Waterski School, Mark Warner is dedicated to the sport. Expert tuition is available whatever your level or you can pay-as-you-ski, with or without professional instruction.

WaKeboardIng

As in waterskiing, wakeboarding is a surface watersport that involves riding in the wake of a speedboat, but on a single board instead of skis. A particular attraction at the Mark Warner resort in Paleros are the two brandnew ski boats complete with wakeboarding towers: a 17ft Fletcher 17 Arrowstreak ski boat and a 19ft Fletcher Arrowhawk 220hp speedboat. “The towers on the new boats allow wakeboarders to get really big air,” says Mark Warner’s waterfront specialist, Charlie Falconer. “We expect them to prove really popular.”

Want more details? Whether you’re a watersport addict or simply want to try out something new and fun in the water, Mark Warner has a number of resorts offering a wide range of water-based activities. Visit www.markwarner.co.uk/mag or call 0870 899 8802 to find out more.

Destination: EGYPT

>> VITaL sTaTIsTIcs Capital: caIrO Population: 69,500,000 Language: arabIc time: TwO HOurs aHEad international dialling code: 20 Visas: rEquIrEd money: THE EGYPTIaN POuNd mark warner resorts Mark Warner has two beach resorts in Egypt: Dahab, a Bedouin oasis set amid the Sinai Mountains, and Abu Soma, which is just 35kms south of Hurghada airport. Both are on the shores of the Red Sea, and offer excellent scuba-diving and windsurfing facilities. The on-site diving centres offer PADI courses run by qualified instructors.

PrIcE: from £653* per adult

history Culturally and historically, as a holiday destination Egypt is second to none. Established around 5,000 years ago as the world’s first nation state, the Egyptian’s ancient civilisation invented writing and were the first people to erect stone monuments – the first pyramid was built in the 27th century BC. Until recently, Egyptian lifestyle has continued as it has been for centuries. However, today’s emphasis on profit making and tourism has added diversity to Egypt’s traditional culture. The fellaheen (peasant farmers) population is still strong, however, and the local arts and writing still thrive.

available, as are excursions to Mount Sinai, where it is said Moses received the Ten Commandments. From Abu Soma, guests can visit Luxor and the ancient capital of Thebes, and cross the Nile to the Valley of the Kings and Queens.

things to do and see The Red Sea is ideal for windsurfing and is famed for its perfect scuba-diving conditions. At the Mark Warner Dahab resort, Sinai Divers operates an extensive range of dives, snorkelling and diving safaris. Beyond the activities available at both Mark Warner resorts, a number of historical sites are within reach. For visitors staying at Dahab, day trips to Cairo and the pyramids of Giza are

mark warNEr dIrEcTOrY (PHONE Call 0870 899 8802 for more details on all Mark Warner resorts

8ONLINE Visit www.markwarner.co.uk/mag

dEsTINaTIONs *Price is for one week, leaving on 2 June, flying from Gatwick.

Mark Warner has resorts in: Corsica, Egypt, France, Greece, Portugal, Mauritius, Sardinia and Sri Lanka.

HOLIdaY OPTIONs There is something for everyone at a Mark Warner resort. Choose from: Family holidays with fantastic supervised childcare clubs, English-speaking nannies, watersports and land sports.

Singles and couples child-free holidays – enjoy our beach resort – Abamar in Sardinia – which has a friendly and relaxed atmosphere and a host of activities. Activity holidays, on and off the water – take part in sailing, windsurfing, tennis or aerobics. Qualified instructors are on hand. Skiing holidays – Mark Warner has more than 30 years’ experience in the Alps, so knows what makes great ski holidays.

PrIcEs INcLudE Accommodation, flight and resort transfers All meals (half board in Portugal, Sri Lanka and Mauritius). Wine at mealtimes in Mediterranean resorts. Sailing and windsurfing including tuition. Free waterskiing/wakeboarding in Paleros.

Canoeing, waterpolo, beach volleyball, boules, table tennis, football, aerobics and fitness classes. Children’s clubs (2 years to 17 years). Children’s room listening service, 24-hour kitchen and crèches. Mountain bikes. At extra cost: Baby and Toddler 1 clubs (4 months – 2 years or from 6 months in Mauritius and Sri Lanka). RYA sailing and windsurfing courses. Waterskiing and wakeboarding tuition. PADI scuba diving (free try dive in the pool). Kitesurfing. Pilates, yoga and tennis tuition. Beauty and hair treatments. Elite package. Facilities and inclusives vary between resorts (see brochure or website for details) and terms and conditions apply. Flight tax, regional flights and fuel supplements may apply.