...to the latest issue of our travel magazine.

October 2010 was an incredibly busy month for us onmany fronts and we also welcomed Sean MacDonald toFull Circle Travel. Sean is based in Harpenden,Hertfordshire and has a phenomenal wealth of travelexperience and knowledge. To find out more about Seanand the rest of the Full Circle team please turn to theinside back cover.

As European cities go, Paris is the jewel that was made foreasy pedestrian exploration. The compact centre offers awonderful excuse to escape for the weekend coupledwith the rapid rail links of Eurostar. Meanwhile the winterseason blossoms reminding us that the Alps is open forsnowbound exercise.

For true indulgence why not head for a short break to thenearby North African countries of Tunisia and Morocco.Each promises a rich history, splendid sights, exoticcuisine and warm winter sunshine.

If you are looking for safari adventure, but want to beguaranteed of the finest levels of comfort, then Orient-Express have the ideal circuit in Botswana - an excellentcocktail of camps especially if mixed with some downtimein Cape Town and Johannesburg before and after.

Explore Indochina following the course of the mightyMekong visiting countries that are still fresh on thetourist map.

Finally, our review of sun-soaked retreats includes aglance at the islands of the Indian Ocean, a welcomereturn of an old favourite in the Caribbean and atantalising introduction to a splendid new venture on thesouth coast of Zanzibar.

Niall DouglasManaging Director

Welcome...

Issue 2, 2010

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59 St Mary's StreetWallingford, Oxfordshire

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Tel: 0800 048 8772Fax: 01491 501662

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Contents

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ParisianTreasuresHotels ofdistinction in theheart of Paris.

Indian Ocean & Safari

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World News22

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Ancient &ModernThe ResidenceTunis offers theideal base forexploration ofmagical Tunisia.

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IndochinaFollowing thecourse of theMighty Mekongthrough Laos,Cambodia andVietnam.

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Zanzibar with finesseRaising the bar on Zanzibar’s southern coast. A preview of the2011 opening of the Residence Zanzibar.

Gourmet SkiThe lure of classic alpineresorts - Megeve andChamonix.

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Royal MansourThe ground-breaking “Medina” stylehotel in the heart of Marrakech.

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Four Seasons inthe Indian OceanThe definitive collectionof beach resorts on thetropical islands ofMauritius, Seychellesand the Maldives.

12 BotswanaThe ideal circuit of safari camps inthe company of Orient-Express.

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A Return to FormThe long-awaited reopening ofthe Four Seasons Resort on thefriendly island of Nevis.

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Europe & Mediterranean

European &MediterraneanNews

Far East &Caribbean

Meet the Team23

European & Mediterranean News

Muse is your chic retreat ideally located close to theRamatuelle “route des plages” road and nestled withinan ecological landscape of terraced gardens.

Comprised of 15 suites, 10 with pools, mostoverlooking the terraced gardens created by SophieAgata Ambroise, Muse is minutes from the centre ofswinging St. Tropez. Each suite is named after showbusiness and historical muses such as “Edith”, afterEdith Piaf, “Catherine”, after Catherine Deneuve and“Lauren” after Lauren Bacall.

Guests will have priviledged access to the mostexclusive restaurants and beach clubs in the area dueto the exceptionally connected concierge team.

Discreet retreat on the Riviera’s favouritesummer playground - Muse, a YTL hotel

Good timekeeping is essential at any hotel, but Le Richemond has the advantage ofhaving the world's finest watchmakers on its doorstep.

To celebrate this centuries-old tradition, the new Perfect Timing package will provideguests with their own, exclusive Watch Butler who will arrange one-to-one viewings ofcurrent Collection models, give expert advice on buying watches, and ensureeverything runs like clockwork. Guests will also be taken to view historic timepieces atthe Patek Philippe Museum, founded by the renowned Geneva brand. To complete this21-carat experience, guests will be served a complimentary glass of Champagne onarrival, and enjoy a gourmet dinner at the hotel's Le Jardin restaurant.

Running like clockwork at Le Richemond, Geneva

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- Essential air travel aidsThe Canny Traveller

Castel Monastero – The Tuscan hilltopvillage and monastery, now a stunning hotel

Dating back to the eleventh century, Castel Monastero issurrounded by one of the most beautiful countrysides, theChianti region. Today, this small medieval hamlet isdedicated to the art of Italian hospitality. Located in astrategic position, just 23 km from Siena and 90 km fromFlorence, this perfectly restored hotel offers the pleasure ofdiscovering and experiencing an authentic taste of Tuscany.

The buildings of this historic noble residence, divided into“contrade”, house 75 rooms and suites of various sizes, as wellas an independent villa. Two restaurants and extensive SPAfacilities make this the ideal week-end escape – why notchoose Castel Monastero for an early spring celebration andfor your Easter break! Closed from 21 Nov to 31 March.

Noise-cancelling Discreet earphones can now be purchased that have Headphones effective noise-cancelling capabilities. They will both enhance

on-board entertainment systems and/or block out unwantednoise from within the cabin. An eye mask is also a good idea!

Optrex eye drops ...for during and post-flight hydration of red-eye.

Digital luggage scales The digital luggage scale is a light, portable and extremely useful device which effortlessly helps you weigh your bags. Available in stores and online at a number of websites.

Parisian TreasuresPalatial Style or Chic Boutique in the City of Lights

ew cities around the world squeeze so much into theircentre or deliver such a fascinating melange ofclassical and modern. As the famous 20th century

American publicist, Mary Anderson once said:

“Paris is the city in which one loves to live. Sometimes I thinkthis is because it is the only city in the world where you canstep out of a railway station - the Gare D’Orsay - and see,simultaneously, the chief enchantments: the Seine with itsbridges and bookstalls, the Louvre, Notre Dame, the TuileriesGardens, the Place de la Concorde, the beginning of theChamps Elysees - nearly everything except the LuxembourgGardens and the Palais Royal. But what other city offers asmuch as you leave a train?”

These days the beautiful Beaux Arts Gare D’Orsayhas itself become another notable landmark, a

museum housing French art between 1845 and1915, but the principal of easy and fast rail travelfrom the UK to the “City of Lights” has made it our

most convenient and nearby European citybreak destination. By day Paris promises

great discoveries and by night shetempts us with an enthralling

playground full of lightand sound.

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Located in the heart of historical Paris on the fashionable Rue duFaubourg Saint Honoré, within walking distance of the ChampsElysees and the Louvre, Hotel Le Bristol embodies the luxurious sideof Parisian way of life. With 187 rooms and suites, Hotel Le Bristol isoften described as an intimate palace, a combination of refinedelegance, life and culture, and an extraordinarily attentive service witha great attention to details and flexibility. Interiors are adorned withGobelin tapestries and stunning original works of arts, all adding tothe regal ambience of one of Paris’ legendary ‘Palace’ Hotels.

The three-star Michelin Chef, Eric Frechon, offers gastronomic brilliancethat guarantees to deliver unforgettable dining experiences. Openedin September 2009, the new restaurant, 114 Faubourg, offers a cuisinethat blends French classicism with world flavours. The beautiful Frenchmanicured garden, the rooftop swimming pool and the Spa, ensurecomfort and relaxation after a day of shopping and touring the City ofLights. Hotel Le Bristol Paris also features five banqueting rooms, abusiness centre, 24 hour room-service and all the facilities that providiea unique setting for guests around the world to gather.

Le Bristol

With architecture reminiscent of the Belle Epoch and flamboyantinterior design, Banke Hotel makes a striking impression in theheart of the Opera quarter. Housing a superb collection of worldart, wonderfully comfortable rooms and a gastronomicrestaurant serving creative Mediterranean cuisine, it is theperfect hotel from which to enjoy the best of Paris.

From the minute you enter the lobby, you are struck by themagnificent crystal-domed ceiling that illuminates a large floormosaic. A dramatic spiral staircase leads to beautifully decoratedrooms that bring Hausmann styling into the 21st century whiledisplay cases on each floor exhibit a fabulous collection oftreasures from various world civilisations.

Just a few minutes from Place Vendôme, the Galleries La Fayetteand Rue Faubourg Saint-Honoré, Banke Hotel is ideally placed fora serious shopping trip or a visit to the Louvre which is nearby.

Banke Hotel

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he alpine resorts of Megèveand Chamonix offer wintersports enthusiasts some of the

most dramatic terrain in the Alpsdominated by the Mont Blanc Massif.

Both resorts lie in close proximity toeach other and within a 60/90minute transfer from Geneva andChambery airports making themideal contenders for weekenders aswell as those wishing to stay forlonger.

They also offer tantalising apres-ski,or should we say, alternatives, as theyare most definitely year-rounddestinations. They differ quitedramatically in atmosphere withChamonix presenting more of acosmopolitan buzz whilst Megèvedelivers a more genteel, rustic chic.Fine dining and top marqueshopping establishments abound.

Gourmet SkiLying in the shadow of Mont Blanc, Chamonix and Megève.

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Overlooking the Arly Valley and onwards to MontBlanc, Alpaga is an elegant hotel just a five-minutewalk from the centre of Megève. With a bar, a spawith an indoor pool, steam room, treatment roomsand a gastronomic restaurant, this is a fabulous all-season bolthole. The spa was recently selected as oneof the 101 best spas in the world by Tatler.

Pale, sandblasted pine and sophisticated shades ofbrown, grey and white create an undeniablycontemporary feel. All 22 rooms, four apartments andsix chalets have amazing mountain views and all withbalconies.

Hotel AlpagaMegève

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On the mountainside above the village of LesHouches, Les Granges d’en Haut has one of thefinest views of the Chamonix valley. The resort isspread out across a charming, private hamlet offourteen luxury chalets, stunning restaurant,elegant lounge and an exquisite spa oozing withsimple elegance.

Each fully catered, private chalet offers style,comfort and high-end guest services. If guestsseek more privacy, self-catered chalet rentals arealso available. Each of the 14 chalets sleeps eightguests in four en suite bedrooms

Les Granges d’en Haut Resort & SpaChamonix (Les Houches)

Megève is the essence of rustic chic. It has an authentic heart, but itwas, in a way, the original purpose-built French ski resort - conceivedin the 1950’s as a French alternative to Switzerland's St. Moritz.

There is a very healthy, gastronomic side to Megève with over 90restaurants, some of which have attained the highest culinaryaccolades. With such temptations it would be fair to say that theexcellent skiing plays second fiddle to breakfast and lunch!

Lying in the shadow of Mont Blanc, Chamonix is one of Europe’soldest alpine resorts and gateway to some of the world’s finestyear-round high altitude recreation. With a ski area extending to3,800 metres the winter season lasts from December to May.

There are five separate ski areas along the Chamonix Valleybetween Les Houches and Argentière. The Mont Blanc UnlimitedSki Pass unites these areas with unlimited access to the GrandsMontets, plus one day on the Italian side of Mont Blanc inCourmayeur as well.

Chamonix

Megève

nclosed by its own, burnt ochre-orange 10-foot-high walls and two 2.5-ton entry doorsfinished in sculpted bronze, the Royal

Mansour is a new, but private “medina” (district) inthe very heart of the hectic, Berber city of Marrakech.

3½ years in the making, Royal Mansour is withoutdoubt Morocco’s most inspired and unique hoteldevelopment of recent years comprising 53individual three-storey riads (traditional Moroccanopen-courtyard residences) ranging in size fromone to four bedrooms spread across an intricatemaze of gardens and water-lined pathwayscovering an area of over nine acres.

The sense of achievement is apparent from themoment guests enter past the grand gates. This setsthe measure for the ensuing experience where asmall army of staff come and go unseen through anelaborate, ground-breaking system of undergroundtunnels that ensures that life on the surface remainsuncluttered by the passage of hotel’s immaculatelytrained labour force. Indeed, each riad is assignedits own butler ensuring that the smallest detail ofguest comfort is guaranteed 24/7.

Over 1000 craftsmen have toiled over the elaboratedecorations and furnishings to achieve an ornate,hand-crafted look akin to the style of the originalAlmoravid palaces and mosques with intricatezellige tilework, carved cedarwood and silk-smooth

tadelakt plaster prevalent throughout all thebuildings. Modern refinements ensure that comfortis always maintained. For instance, each of theopen-air courtyards has a canopy, which will closeautomatically should sensors detect rain.Sumptuous bedrooms with live-in marblebathrooms, living rooms with open fires and roofterraces with plunge pools, dining area andBedouin style seating tent all attest to a standard ofaccommodation fit for royalty.

The two gastronomic restaurants are under theconsultancy of Yannick Alléno, who brought threeMichelin stars to Le Meurice in Paris. La GrandeTable Marocaine serves local cuisine while LaGrande Table Française is probably already the bestFrench restaurant in Morocco. There is also a lobbydining area, a salon de thé in the Spa, a cocktaillounge and a Piano Bar overlooking the gardens.However, if guests prefer, they may dine in theprivacy of their riad, either inside or under a star litsky on their roof terrace.

A magnificent spa sprawls over 27,000 square feetoffering blissful treatments. Those fortunate toexperience Royal Mansour would do well to visit theHammam, complete with hot rooms, mild roomsand cold rooms, created with combinations of light,steam and water.

A lifestyle experience awaits at Royal Mansour.

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Royal MansourIn the heart of Marrakech, a new medina offers a most

exclusive retreat in the grand, Moorish tradition.

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n ideal climate and a long and gentleseacoast on this northernmost Africancountry has attracted visitors to Tunisia for

over 3000 years. Not all of them friendly! Thiswelcoming nation, often referred to as theSwitzerland of North Africa for their peaceful nature,has witnessed the passage of Phoenicians, Romans,Vandals, Byzantines, Turks, Spanish and French. Theycame as fugitives or adventurers, to conquer or toclaim, warriors and missionaries, traders and farmerseach leaving a part of their story in stone or mosaics,on the hills of Carthage and the threshold of theSahara.

Often overlooked by it’s more favoured neighbours,Tunisia is easily accessible by scheduled flights fromLondon and offers an easy, relaxed and fascinating

cultural escape from the British winter, for a week ora weekend, and being outside the Euro-zone, offersexcellent value for money.

Close to the gates of Carthage, lies The ResidenceTunis, a graceful palace of domed ceilings andarched alcoves, drawing its inspiration from thecountry’s Arab-Andalucian heritage. This cool oasisof ivory coloured marble welcomes sophisticatedtravellers with the signature scent of Neroli, acalming fragrance made from Orange Blossom.

Guestrooms are decorated in nuanced tones andbathed in filtered light with views over the lushgardens or the 16,000 square foot pool and theocean beyond. For those craving total relaxation, LesThermes Marins de Carthage, reminiscent of the

thermal baths of ancient Rome, boasts 30 treatmentrooms, a Darphin spa and oriental hammam. The sixrestaurants take you on a gastronomic tour in thisland of flavours and aromas: savour fresh seafood,Mediterranean specialities, authentic Chinesecuisine or dine al fresco at Néroli salad bar.

Just two minutes away, in the heart of a naturalreserve where migrating birds and wildlife abound,the golf course, created by Robert Trent Jones II,provides an enjoyable distraction from the beachwith free green fees for all guests staying 2 nights orlonger, and is home to a chic club house with it’sown pool, restaurant and uber-cool bar.

The Residence Tunis offers the perfect base forinvestigating this country of mystery and legend.

Ancient & Modern Sophisticated pampering and year round delights at The Residence Tunis

Clockwise from top left :1. The Outdoor pool

2. The Thalassotherapy pool

3. L’Olivier’s Restaurant

4. The Robert Trent Jones II golf course

5. A romantic dinner for two, Bedouin style.

6. A multitude of spa treatments

7. Guestroom

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www.theresidence.com

he irresistible lure of The Indian Oceanaffirms our most reclusive desires - todiscover that strip of powder white sand, an

idyllic island washed by crystal clear waters wheretropical palms and coconut trees stand guard alonguntouched shorelines. Indeed, the choices nowavailable offer variations on this theme to suit themost active or passive sun worshiper.

By example, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts hasdeveloped a collection of resorts offering superlativestandards of accommodation, exceptional locationsand a tremendous commitment to the varying needsand desires of different holiday types like families,couples and lifestyle junkies.

The most cosmopolitan destination of their IndianOcean collection is the island of Mauritius to the eastof Madagascar, a large island framed by dramaticmountains and circled by a necklace of reefs andlagoons. The east coast offers a more detachedenvironment and the Four Seasons ResortMauritius at Anahita occupies a prime positionalong a six mile private stretch of coastline includingthe nearby Isle des Cerfs. The resort will appeal to alltypes, but is a particular favourite for families offeringa host of exciting activities including extensive waterand land-based sports including an Ernie Elsdesigned, 18-hole championship golf course.

The archipelago of picture perfect islands thatcomprise the Seychelles lies to the north adjacent toKenya and Tanzania. Although Mauritian beaches are

beautiful, there is no mistaking that Seychellesbeaches are better. In fact, beaches in Seychellesoften make it into top beaches of the world surveys.The location of the new, Four Seasons ResortSeychelles, is a fine example. A collection ofluxurious villas each with a private pool dot the densehills overlooking one of the very finest private, whitesand bays on Mahe Island. This is a truly exclusiveretreat and should be a hot favourite for adventuroushoneymooners, although the extensive facilitiesoffered does makes this one of the few resorts on theSeychelles to cater for families.

Of course, the ultimate expression of the tropical,barefoot idyll is to be found eastwards across theIndian Ocean on the low-lying atolls of theMaldives. This is the domain of private islandresorts, each with its distinct character and appeal.Four Seasons operates two private island resorts:the colourful garden island of Four SeasonsResort Kuda Huraa, just half an hour speedboatride from Male airport, and the remote naturalwonderland of Four Seasons Resort LandaaGiraavaru, a scenic seaplane ride from the airport.Kuda Huraa reflects all the charm and intimacy of atraditional Maldivian village. It has excellent diveand surf schools, and a spa that occupies its owntropical island. Landaa Giraavaru is flanked bypristine, white beaches and a two kilometre lagoon.It is home to secluded restaurants, pioneeringmarine projects and an award-winning Spa &Ayurvedic Retreat.

Tropical Island BonanzaFour Seasons offers the definitive collection in the Indian Ocean

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1. Beach Bungalow, Four Seasons Kuda Huraa

2. 'Four Seasons Kuda Huraa'

3. Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita

4. Tree-house villa perched above the bay at Four Seasons Resort Seychelles

5. The Sandspit - a private stretch of “heaven” at Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru

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Aboard Four Seasons Explorer

The atolls of The Maldives stretch forhundreds of miles offering tremendousopportunities for exploration.

Four Seasons Explorer is an 11-cabin, threedeck catamaran that sails between KudaHuraa and Landaa Giraavaru on 3, 4 and 7-day itineraries. With the chance to snorkel,dive, fish, kayak, spa and visit remoteislands for cultural and castawayexperiences, guests are guaranteed aprivate cruise experience that goes farbeyond the normal beach escape.

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ntarnished, expansive and exquisite.Botswana is greatly respected by its peopleand one of the few African countries to

realise the importance of ecological preservationand low impact tourism.

Unique in its diversity of regions – green wetlands,forested islands tapering into riverbanks and riversthat eventually run dry into the parched sands of theKalahari Desert – to see Botswana is to experiencethe Real Africa. Wild, unexpected and beautiful.Roughly the size of France it is extraordinary to thinkthat over 17% of the land is designated as protectedwildlife areas. Orient-Express have created a uniquegroup of safari camps that in combination offer acomprehensive safari circuit to three of the mostpopular wildlife environments within the lushOkavango Delta and northwards to the morerugged Chobe National Park.

The Okavango Delta is one of the world's largestinland water systems, the only inland delta of its

kind and a unique oasis of life in the centre of theKalahari Desert. It stretches over 16,000 square kmand supports a staggering variety of animal, plant,fish and birdlife. The water was once thought tohave reached the sea, but this is no longer thecase. After a series of tectonic uplifts andearthquakes running along geological fault lines,the land at the edge of the Delta now lies lowerthan that of the surrounding area. Hence thewater very rarely flows further south than Maun.

In contrast, Chobe National Park is a dynamicwilderness, a sweeping expanse of savannahbrooded over by several rocky outcrops whichguard a relic marsh and the Savute channel.

Mysterious wet and dry cycles mould thislandscape and dictate the nature of its wildinhabitants. The Savute Channel, one of thegreatest mysteries and fascinations of NorthernBotswana, is flowing again after nearly 30 years oflying dormant.

Botswana On safari with Orient-Express

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Situated on the remote island of Xaxaba, shadedby a canopy of indigenous trees and Ilala Palms,the camp overlooks a surrounding lagoon fed bythe tranquil waterways of the Delta. The areaoffers prolific birdlife and mammal gameviewingby boat and on foot. Also included in your stay atEagle Island Camp is a spectacular and mind-blowing game-viewing helicopter flight, theopen sides of the helicopter allowing you to takethe most fantastic photographs, to capture thisexperience forever.

Nestled on the edge of a leadwood forest,overlooking the vast Khwai River floodplainsand beyond into the Moremi Wildlife Reserve,lies Khwai River Lodge. Located in the one ofAfrica’s most sought after locations for viewingwildlife it is renowned for its largeconcentrations of big mammals such as theelephant, buffalo and hippo in addition to lion,leopard and wild dog. Day and night gamedrives are offered in open 4x4 vehicles and isexcellent all year round.

Khwai River Lodge

Eagle Island Camp

Perched on the banks of the now flowing SavuteChannel, Savute Elephant Camp is a spectacularbase from which to explore the area. Dramaunfolds here daily with interactions between thehigh concentrations of elephant, the large lionprides and the many hyenas that inhabit thearea. Savute is also unrivaled for its sightings ofexcellent predator / prey interaction during thedrier months of August through October and isa ‘must stay’ on any Southern Africa safari.

Savute Elephant Camp

Maun

Savute Elephant Camp

Khwai River LodgeEagle Island Camp

Cape Town / Johannesburg

Orient-ExpressSafaris circuitin BotswanaIdeal for a 9-night tourpreceded and/orfinished with stays inCape Town andJohannesburg

pening April 2011, The ResidenceZanzibar will sit in isolated splendouron the south west coast of the island,

close to the village of Kizimkazi, home to thewild dolphins who populate these waters, andthe rare colobus monkey.

A member of Leading Hotels of the World, it willopen with 65 one and two bedroom villas andan impressive Presidential Villa. This romantichoneymoon hideaway and post-safari retreat isset in 80 acres of tropical gardens along a onemile stretch of soft white sand flanked by tallcoconut palms. Each spacious villa will have aprivate pool, personal butler service and viewsover the beautiful gardens or beach.

The architecture and interiors draw theirinspiration from the many influences inZanzibar’s rich cultural history, where Africa,India and Arabia meet. Simple, airy andcontemporary, the feel will be casual elegance;sumptuous and sophisticated.

The Spa, featuring Carita products, housed in sixindividual pavilions in the verdant gardens, is atranquil oasis and will showcase the worldrenowned “Ohashiatsu” from New York.

The two restaurants will provide a heady mix ofZanzibar “spice” and European expertise, whilethe two bars take guests on a nostalgic journeythrough Africa to trace the path of Dr Livingstone.

Zanzibar with finesseWhite sand, a private pool and a butler by The Residence Zanzibar

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South of Cambodia’s capital, Phnom Penhthe Mekong opens out into the widebasin of its delta, entering Vietnam. Thisarea, called the “rice basket” of Vietnam,yields enough rice to feed the nationand a sizeable surplus. Such fertility alsosupports a highly dense population withnearly every hectare intensively farmed.To the east of the delta lies the capitalcity of Southern Vietnam, Ho Chi MinhCity (formerly Saigon).

The lower reaches of the Mekong formthe basis of 3, 7 and 10-night luxurycruises between Kampong Cham inCentral Cambodia and My Tho close toHo Chi Minh City aboard the wellequipped and popular river boats ofPandaw River Cruises.

Positioned atop a hill, with stunningmountain views, La Résidence Phou Vaois an unforgettable place to stay.

Its calm, tranquil ambience echoes thatof the sleepy World Heritage town ofLuang Prabang - former royal capital ofLaos - spread out below.

This Orient-Express hotel is known for itswonderful French-influenced local cuisineand an open-air spa beside a water lily pool.Relax, soak up the atmosphere and enjoystepping back into a more gracious era.

La Résidence Phou Vao, Luang Prabang

Make your base when visiting the UNESCO world heritage site ofAngkor Wat the Residence D’Angkor, an intimate Orient-Expresshotel on the banks of Siem Reap’s tree-lined river.

Located in the town centre there is easy access to the busy craftmarkets, restaurants and galleries as well as fascinating Tonle SapLake with its "floating village". This delightful hotel’s quietgardens, refreshing salt water swimming pool and soothing spaare the perfect place to relax at the end of a thrilling day.

La Résidence D’Angkor, Siem Reap

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IndochinaThe mighty Mekong and the wonders of Siem Reap

he mighty Mekong provides an ideal partnerfor a trip through South East Asia. Followingmuch of the lower reaches of its 4,880 km

meanderings you can easily combine Laos,Cambodia and Vietnam into one trip. This gives agreat snapshot of the rich natural, cultural andhistorical heritage bordering its banks.

Hidden Laos, the ‘forgotten country’ of South EastAsia, is slowly emerging as a tourist destination,and, before it becomes a major hot spot, visit andsavour the ancient way of life. The mighty MekongRiver is the pulse of the land. Life on the river carrieson much as it did hundreds of years ago and holds amyriad of sights and experiences for the traveller. Agood start might be a short but leisurely cruise inthe north of the country down river to LuangPrabang.

The sleepy town of Luang Prabang, set amongstbeautiful hills on the banks of the Mekong, is one theregion’s treasures. With its historic temples, this UNESCOworld heritage town is an inspiring place to visit.

On travelling southwards one encounters a moststunning section of the river known as the “FourThousand Islands” region, where the Mekongshatters into a mosaic of small islands just before itcrosses into neighbouring Cambodia.

Heading downstream into Cambodia one shouldmake a significant detour away from the Mekong tovisit the extraordinary temples of Angkor. Thismagnificent complex represents the high point ofthe mighty Khmer civilisation, which dominatedSouth East Asia from the 9th to the 15th centuries. Its200 monuments are scattered over a huge area, butthe temples near Siem Reap are the most popular.

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A superb way to includesome downtime on thecoast after a tour ofIndochina.

Remote but accessible aptly describes the Thai island of Kood, onwhich Soneva Kiri is set amidst the lush tropical rainforest, off thesouth-east coast of the Gulf of Siam. International guests arepersonally met on arrival at Bangkok’s airport and transferred tothe resort’s own airplane for the one-hour flight to the Soneva Kiriairfield. From the air, the beauty of untouched Thailand and KohKood, with its white sandy beaches is immediately evident.

Soneva Kiri, Koh Kood

he re-opening of the Four Seasons Resorton the beautiful Caribbean island of Nevishas marked the end of a long wait since

Hurricane Omar stormed past the island inOctober 2008.

Two years is a long time to keep devotees waitingbut it is also a reflection of the painstaking highstandards that are synonymous with Four SeasonsResorts worldwide. Naturally, a wise man wouldget their reservation in early to take advantage ofthe generous discounts being offered in the earlymonths after re-opening.

To understand the enduring loyalty of past guestsyou need also to appreciate the gentle philosophyof the island’s inhabitants. Their relaxed andwelcoming attitude makes Nevis one of the

friendliest islands of the Caribbean where crime isnegligible.

Nevis, along with sister island, St. Kitts, lies on thenorthern fringe of the leeward islands. It is a small,volcanic island dominated by a central mountainthat rises over 3000 feet above palm fringed, finesand beaches. Christopher Columbus mistakenlynamed the island after the Spanish word “nieve” onadmiring the invariably cloud obscured peak thathe could see as he approached. Interestingly,subsequent construction on the island has alwaysbeen low rise with a strict policy that no buildingcan rise higher than two storeys so the palm treesalways dominate the shoreline.

Four Seasons Resort Nevis is the only full service,international standard hotel on Nevis. It has 196

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A Return to FormBack to business for Four Season Resort Nevis

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rooms in low-lying tropical blocks set back slightlyfrom the sand among the tangle of tall palms of 3 kmPinney's Beach, Nevis's loveliest beach. There is abusy core to the resort, around the foyer,restaurants and the main pool, but it is laid out overlarge grounds so the rooms, and the villas, whichare set inland on higher ground, have a delightfultropical tranquillity.

The view from the beach itself, along the length ofSt Kitts, is simply fantastic. Facilities on the front,mainly in the centre of the resort, include threepools (one a ‘quiet’ pool) and a watersports centrethat offers a full range of sports, from snorkellingand kayaking to waterskiing, sailing school andscuba diving.

The Four Seasons in Nevis also has excellent land-based sports facilities. Most of them are located onthe other side of the rooms, looking towards themountains. Leaving the foyer you pass through thetennis courts and come to the golf pro shop andgolf course, which is one of the finest in theCaribbean. Next to it is the fitness centre and theextensive spa.

Niall Douglas, Managing DirectorFavourite Destinations: Canada, Mauritius, Tanzania, Menorca, Kalkan, Kefalonia and any ski resort!Visited most recently: Mauritius, Prague, Menorca, Cervinia, Alpe d’Huez, Sardinia, Turks and Caicos, andJamaica.Favourite Hotel: It has to be Greystoke Camp on the shores of Lake Tanganyika in Tanzania. A trulyoutstanding experience and spending time with the Chimpanzees was incredible.Most memorable travel experience: Seeing the chimpanzees at Mahale hunting and celebrating after killing a deer.Hot tip: Iceland. It has something for everyone. Great food, great hotels and so much tosee and do.

Kate LeeFavourite Destinations: Halkidiki, Mauritius, Tanzania, Maldives, Jordan.Visited most recently: Mauritius, Jordan, St Moritz, Vietnam.Favourite Hotel: Ngorogoro Crater Lodge in Tanzania. The most amazing setting and incrediblearchitecture.Most memorable travel experience: Seeing my first wild lion whilst on Safari in Tanzania.Hot tip: Jordan. For something completely different with a wealth of culture and history I wouldrecommend Jordan. Petra is something everyone should try to see in their lifetime.

Michael Lo-Monaco

Favourite Destinations: Sicily (my home!), Japan, Lefkada and The Gambia.Visited most recently: Sicily, Japan, France, Mauritius and Peissey Vallandry.Favourite Hotel: Still can’t decide!!Most memorable travel experience: The bullet train in Japan has to be one of them.Hot tip:Lefkada - for pure escapism and the most stunning views I have ever seen.

Sean MacDonald Favourite Destinations: Caribbean, Switzerland and Italy.Visited most recently: Barbados, Mauritius, Wengen, Verona and Lake Garda, Peru, Jersey, Basilicata, Saas Fee,Miami, Bahamas, Dubai, Antigua, Quebec, Montreal, and Alaska.Favourite Hotel: The Alpenrose in Wengen. Rate highly for the cuisine, views and friendly ambiance. Most memorable travel experience: A two hour trek through the jungle, then paddling a canoe down a tributary of theMadre De Dios river in the Peruvian Amazon. Hot tip:When packing, lay all the things you want to take and your money on the bed. Thenhalve the things to take and double the money!

Meet the team In Wallingford, OxfordshireTel: 0800 048 8772

In Harpenden, HertfordshireTel: 01582 969 022

Africa and Indian Ocean News

Maldives - Constance Moofushi Resortopens this winter with early bird offers

Opening in November 2010, Constance Moofushi Resortis situated on the South Ari Atoll and is widely regardedas one of the best diving spots in the world. The 5* allinclusive Resort combines the Crusoe Chic Barefootelegance of a deluxe resort with the highest standards ofConstance Hotels service. The accommodation consistsof Beach Villas, Water Villas and Senior Water Villas, whichall feature air-conditioning, ceiling fans, hairdryers,sitting areas and complimentary WIFI, LCD, TV, Mac mini(iPod connection CD & DVD).

Manta is the main buffet restaurant and Alizee offers a lacarte fine dining. There are also three Bars offering clientsa varied choice of atmosphere to soak up this delightfulisland. With 8 over water treatment rooms in the Spa deConstance as well as a Yoga Pavilion there is a chance torelax and unwind. For those who prefer a more activeholiday there is the Diving School within the Water SportsCentre as well as a Gym and Aerobic Centre.

Grootbos Nature Reserve, with its two 5-star lodgesis a jewel of Cape ecotourism and luxuryaccommodation. The reserve is spectacularlysituated on the fynbos and forest clad hills thatoverlook the whale-watching haven of Walker Bay. Itis a unique place where conservation, relaxation &luxury have found the perfect home.

The Grootbos Private Nature Reserve accommodationis connected via winding pathways through some ofthe last Milkwood Forests in the world.

Complimenting the lodges but offering a far moreexclusive experience, the reserve has built afabulous villa offering 6 elegant suites with privatebutler, chef and guide. Spread over an impressive1000 sq. metres this property must rank at the top ofthe league of exclusive use villas in Southern Africa.

South Africa - The stunning Villa atGrootbos Nature Reserve

Mount Nelson Hotel is the ideal familyresort destination. Situated in theheart of Cape Town’s cultural centre,the hotel’s nine acre garden settingprovides the ideal environment forchildren to run free, while parentsunwind with complete peace of mind;with superb leisure facilities andluxurious seclusion for little ones whoneed a secure and spacious place inwhich to play and explore.

Now, in addition to upgrading thevery popular indoor children’s

playroom, the hotel has introduced achill-out lounge and games roomspecially for teenagers.

Cape Town and the Cape Peninsulaoffers excellent family friendly outdoorattractions throughout the SouthAfrican summer. most highlyrecommended are walks up TableMountain or in the surrounding naturereserves, whilst in the winter there are amultitude of indoor activities toentertain children for hours on end.

South Africa - A magical family holiday at theMount Nelson Hotel in Cape Town

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reasons to book your holiday with Full Circle Travel

1 We are completely independent and are completely committed to ensuring you get the best price and service possible.

2 We have a fantastic array of contacts and work tirelessly to leverage as much as possible for yourmoney and time away.

3 We love a challenge and the chance to do 'the impossible' whether it be finding rooms when none are available, sourcing tickets to sold out shows, creating a unique one-off experience - you name, we can usually do it.

4 We are contactable 24 hours a day and are a small experienced team who you will get to knowand trust.

5 We have no-preconceptions of what you want or expect and therefore we listen and we listen carefully to what you want. Only then can we begin to find the perfect holiday for you.

6 You are 100% financially protected by booking with Full Circle Travel.

7 We work with many major tour operators you will have heard of but also hundreds you won't. We

monitor the markets very carefully to ensure you are getting the best value for money with no

compromise on quality or service.

For more information call us free on 0800 048 8772 or check the new site at www.fullcircletravel.co.uk

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