Travel Dream - Winter 2016/17

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Just 15 minutes’ drive from the medieval city of Girona (the
airport is just 5 minutes away), close to some of the world’s best
restaurants and within an hour’s drive of Barcelona, the recently
opened Hotel Camiral, located in the heart of Spain’s top golf
complex, PGA Catalunya Resort, will satisfy the discerning needs
of many types of traveller. The modern-style building has been
beautifully decorated by internationally acclaimed Lázaro Rosa-
Violán who has created a progressive design statement so totally
in tune with the cutting-edge new Catalan style.
The surrounding facilities are impressive, and no doubt keen
golfers will be immediately drawn to the area. However, the
hotel’s own facilities will also appeal to families with one of the
most child-friendly pools, a kids-club as well as a programme of
experiences aimed at families.
Hotel Camiral is the ideal resort for short
breaks to Girona and Barcelona
A classic combination of style, service and
location at Estoril’s premier residence
A testament to understated 1930’s elegance, Palácio Estoril Hotel, Golf &
Spa is located in the heart of Estoril near Lisbon, increasingly known as the
Portuguese Riviera. Surrounded by manicured gardens with magnificent
sea views, this sophisticated retreat offers elegant accommodation
together with refined dining. During the winter and early spring why not
plan a weekend or a longer break perhaps to enjoy some rounds on the
hotel’s famous 18-hole golf course. Alternatively, the Banyan Tree Spa at
the Estoril Wellness Centre offers a range of asian-inspired treatments and
courses including the indulgent signature Banyan Tree Spa treatment.
Expect a warm and friendly welcome and attentive but unobtrusive
service from the minute you enter Palácio Estoril. From its impressive
façade to its traditionally styled interiors, this grown up establishment
reflects an era renowned for style and courteous hospitality. Don’t forget
to order a Dry Martini cocktail at the “Spies” Bar ...shaken, of course!
1. Left handshake - No No!
Eat with your right hand only. In India, as right
across Asia, the left hand is for wiping your
bottom, cleaning your feet and other unsavoury
functions (you also put on and take off your shoes
with your left hand), while the right hand is for
eating, shaking hands and so on.
2. Visiting holy places
Religion is taken very seriously in India; it’s
important always to show due respect to religious
buildings, shrines, images, and people at prayer.
When entering a temple or mosque, remove
your shoes and leave them at the door (socks are acceptable and
protect your feet from burning-hot stone ground).
3. Don’t overdo your sightseeing
By far the most common complaint reported by first-time
visitors to India is fatigue – simply trying to do too much in too
little time. India is vast, colourful and addictive, but have
realistic expectations about how much you can see.
3. Watch what you eat
A dodgy stomach is pretty common for first-timers in India. That
doesn’t mean you should rule out street food, but try to stick to
peeled fresh fruit and foods that have been either boiled or fried.
Stay on the bottled water and avoid salads or ice.
Handy hints when travelling in India
Travel News
The Canny Traveller
At the crossroads between Cognac and Bordeaux wine
regions and mere minutes from the motorway exit at
Mirambeau you will discover one of France’s finest
chateau hotels. This 2-star Michelin temple to fine cuisine
is reflected by membership to Relais & Châteaux and
guests will be impressed by the gastronomy of chef
Maxime Deschamps. Château de Mirambeau is a sparkling
hotel that both welcomes an indulgent stopover when
travelling through France and is the perfect base for an
extended stay in the region, whether fine wine-hunting,
savouring rare vintage cognacs or just exploring the
striking countryside and world heritage city of Bordeaux
itself. The recent refurbishments and new partnership
with Sina Hotels have also given the hotel a polish with
upgraded facilities to reflect its deluxe 5-star category.
Sina brings new sparkle to a Relais &
Châteaux favourite near Bordeaux