CITIES 2006
Transcription
CITIES 2006
REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:11 Page 1 CITIES 2006 Baku, Belgrade, Bratislava, Bucharest, Budapest, Chisinau, Dubrovnik, Ekaterinburg, Gdansk, Istanbul, Kaliningrad, Krakow, Kyiv, Ljubljana, Lviv, Minsk, Moscow, Odessa, Palanga, Prague, Riga, Sarajevo, Shanghai, Sofia, Split, St Petersburg, Tallinn, Tbilisi, Tehran, Tirana, Vilnius, Warsaw, Yalta, Yerevan, Zagreb part of Western & Oriental REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:11 REGENT CITIES 2 Page 2 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:11 Page 3 REGENT CITIES Dear Traveller, I am delighted to welcome you to our latest collection of city breaks, offering you a wide selection of destinations from the traditional to the more unusual. Whether you are looking for a weekend shopping trip, a cultural break away or a relaxing few days by the seaside, we are sure you will find a city or coastal town to suit. How about a shopping trip to Shanghai, where West meets East, as an explosion of modern design & technology fuses with ancient Chinese customs? Or spend a weekend in the Polish port of Gdansk, a rich Hanseatic town, with an extraordinary heritage? Follow the ‘Amber Road’ to Lithuania’s coastal town of Palanga, where ‘Baltic Gold’ amber is often washed up onto the long sandy beach or, for a more unusual short break, why not try Tehran, the vibrant heart of Iran with its breath-taking palaces, museums and endless bazaars? These, along with the Croatian town of Dubrovnik, are the five new cities that we are proud to introduce to you to but you will find many old favourites, such as Moscow and St Petersburg, Prague and Budapest, as well as those that illustrate Regent’s pioneering spirit, such as Baku and Yerevan. So, whether you are already a valued Regent client or new to the Regent collection, we are sure that you will find the city break you are looking for. If not, don’t forget that we specialise in arranging bespoke itineraries, and would be pleased to discuss your individual requirements. You may wish to enjoy some additional nights in one of our cities, choose a hotel that is not featured in our brochure, combine two or three cities together or fly from your local airport. Our experienced tours managers have a thorough knowledge of the destinations we feature and have travelled extensively, enabling them to continue to offer up-to-date travel advice and an individual and unique holiday experience for you. We never forget that you have a choice when choosing how and with whom to book your holiday. Our ethos at Regent, therefore, remains constant; to offer our clients a meticulously planned holiday with a personal and informative service that makes us and our products ‘a world apart.’ CONTENTS 2006 Page No. THE BALKANS Albania, Tirana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Bosnia-Herzegovina, Sarajevo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Croatia, Dubrovnik NEW . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Split . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Zagreb . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Macedonia, Skopje . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Serbia, Belgrade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Slovenia, Ljubljana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 THE BALTICS AND BELARUS Estonia, Tallinn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16-17 Latvia, Riga . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18-19 Lithuania, Vilnius . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20-21 Palanga NEW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Minsk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 CAUCASUS & IRAN Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Iran, EASTERN EUROPE Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Hungary, Moldova, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Yerevan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Baku . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Tbilisi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 Tehran NEW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 Sofia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 Prague . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 Budapest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Chisinau . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 Gdansk NEW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Krakow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 Warsaw . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 Bucharest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 Bratislava . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 FAR EAST China, Shanghai NEW . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 RUSSIA We look forward to hearing from you, Ekaterinburg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38 Kaliningrad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39 Moscow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40-41 St Petersburg . . . . . . . . . . . . .42-43 Best Wishes, TURKEY Ian Neale Managing Director Istanbul . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44 UKRAINE Kyiv . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45 Lviv . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46 Odessa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47 Regent Holidays 15 John Street Bristol BS1 2HR Tel: 0117 921 1711 Fax: 0117 925 4866 Email: [email protected] www.regent-holidays.co.uk Yalta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48 Climate and visa information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49 Recommended Reading, Insurance and Health Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50 Booking conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51 3 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:11 Page 4 REGENT CITIES ABOUT REGENT In this brochure we have included a wide selection of our favourite city breaks, which we hope will be your favourites too. You may prefer to devise your own tailor-made holiday, perhaps visiting more than one city in one trip, or wish to spend more time in one city to enjoy its splendours at a more relaxing pace. Whatever you decide, our staff have travelled extensively throughout Regent’s destinations and can offer specialist advice to help plan your ideal short break. Because we travel frequently, we can give you the most up-to-date information, accurate hotel descriptions and great travel suggestions. Most of our staff have lived, worked and studied in their specialist areas so can give first-hand knowledge and tips which you can’t always find in a guidebook. Whether you are travelling on a short break booked straight from this brochure or undertaking a longer tailor-made independent tour, we will do everything we can to make your Regent Holiday your best ever travel experience! HOW TO CONTACT US Regent Holidays, 15 John Street, Bristol BS1 2HR Tel: 0117 921 1711 Fax: 0117 925 4866 Email: [email protected] CONSULTATIONS If you would like to discuss your holiday face to face with one of our specialists, we would be very happy to arrange an appointment for you with the relevant tours manager. Please do not hesitate to contact us for an appointment - our office is located in the centre of Bristol. EXHIBITIONS Regent Holidays will be at stand AP27 at Destinations 2006 held in London Earls Court from 2-5 February. This show provides an excellent opportunity for you to meet our experienced staff. We have access to free and discounted tickets for this show – please contact us for details. 4 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:11 Page 5 REGENT CITIES HOW TO BOOK It couldn’t be easier. Just follow these steps... 1. Contact us and together we will discuss and plan your proposed city break. 2. Then, just complete our booking form and return with a deposit of £100 per person. 3. We will then book all the specific travel arrangements agreed. Confirmation will take between one and four days depending on the destination. 4. Once the reservation is confirmed, you will receive an invoice and where necessary, information about visas. 5. The full balance is to be paid eight weeks before departure. If the reservation is made within this time, full payment is required immediately. 6. We will send your documents to you approximately two weeks before you depart. 7. All you have to do is set off on your Regent city break. REGENT’S WORLD REGENT’S CUBA A selection of group and tailormade tours to many of the less visited countries of the world from the Baltic States in the west through to North and South Korea in the east. Our experienced staff are able to provide you with an itinerary to suit your interests and budget. We have specialised in Cuba since 1975 and we are proud to offer our new 2006 Cuba brochure. The island is a lot more than just Havana and Varadero. Use our expertise to help you escape into the mountains, find exclusive island resorts or drive lazily through sugar and tobacco plantations. TEL: 0117 921 1711 TEL: 0207 821 4020 REGENT’S ICELAND & GREENLAND We know Iceland like the back of our hand; after all, we started operating there in 1973. Few realise its diversity; we do. We offer luxury or camping, fishing or bird-watching, staying put or touring. The appeal of Iceland is simple: year-round, all-round relaxation. Why not combine it with Greenland too? TEL: 01983 864212 5 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 6/1/06 12:47 Page 6 REGENT CITIES YOUR COMPLETE FINANCIAL PROTECTION Regent Holidays (UK) Ltd is a fully licensed and bonded tour operator. You can book with Regent Holidays in complete confidence that all monies paid to us are fully protected. Pocket an Expert! City Guides The air holidays and flights in this brochure are protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is 0856. We also fully comply with the bonding requirements of the Association of British Travel Agents. Our ABTA number is V7051. Regent Holidays is a part of Western & Oriental Plc a leading specialist travel company comprising of a number of specialist travel companies and brands. This includes Western & Oriental Travel, Regent Holidays UK Limited and The Mediterranean Experience in both the UK and Germany. Western & Oriental Plc provides clients with expert specialist knowledge in a range of destinations around the world, comprising of every major continent and many of the world's leading island resorts. Its services range from bespoke tours to hotel bookings and flight reservations. All of the companies and brands are specialists in their own sphere of operations and dedicated in providing interesting and enjoyable holidays. 6 Designed to fit in your pocket these handy guides are big on culture, local attractions and personal recommendations from authors, complemented by full-colour street maps. We also publish full size travel guides to over 80 destinations, we would be happy to send you our full catalogue on request. Bradt Travel Guides 19 High Street, Chalfont St Peter, Bucks SL9 9QE Tel: 01753 893444 - Fax: 01753 892333 Email: [email protected] Website: www.bradtguides.com REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:11 Page 7 REGENT CITIES OUR HOTELS We choose our hotels carefully and base our selection on central location, value for money within its price category and good facilities. We try to visit our hotels at least once a year, ensuring we offer up-to-date advice and standards. In this brochure we have quoted for standard rooms unless otherwise stated so please ask if you would like a quote for an upgraded room or suite. We can also book other hotels than the ones featured in this brochure. If you would like a quote for a different hotel, please contact us. FLIGHTS Some of these city breaks featured are based on special fares given to us by the airlines and as such have advance purchase and ticketing deadlines attached. TRANSFER ARRANGEMENTS Our city breaks do not include airport transfers but on each page we have listed the cost of a one-way transfer by private car (maximum 3 persons). For certain destinations we highly recommend you pre-book an arrival transfer, please talk to your tours manager at time of booking. FLIGHT UPGRADES On each page we have listed the supplement for return business class flights to our cities. GROUP BOOKINGS If you require a quotation, or assistance on planning a holiday for a party of friends, a special occasion or conference arrangements, please contact our office. All city breaks including Euro Traveller economy class and Club Europe business class flights with British Airways must be paid for and ticketed within 14 days of the reservation being made. TWO CENTRE STAYS Why not go for flexibility and choice by combining two or more cities? We can tailor-make your trip to suit your individual needs. Please advise our experienced tours managers if you wish to visit more than one city. SIGHTSEEING TOURS We can book and advise on sightseeing tours within the city as well as excursions to nearby attractions. Please contact our office and request a list of sightseeing trips for your chosen city break. OPERA AND CONCERT BOOKINGS We can book opera and concert tickets in most of the cities included in this brochure. Eastern Europe is an excellent place to watch world-class opera and ballet at very economical prices. Please contact us for programmes, although in some instances these are only published a month in advance. July and August are quieter months, as the opera and ballet companies tend to go on tours abroad. 7 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:11 Page 8 TIRANA One of Europe’s last forgotten cities, little-known Tirana has undergone a renaissance. Blissfully overlooked by mass tourism, the vibrant Albanians are transforming their tiny capital with vision and energy. Once a bustling Ottoman settlement, then a drab communist backwater, today Tirana hums with vitality once more. Preconceptions are defied at every turn. Pavement cafés, chic boutiques, family-run eateries, Turkish bazaars, well-stocked galleries and freshly restored mosques vie for the visitor’s attention. Tirana’s smart new hotels are infused with the Muslim tradition of hospitality, guaranteeing a warm reception. Long Mediterranean summers mean lazy, heat-hazed evenings spent sipping local wine and grazing on juicy olives. Regent recommends…visiting the newly restored Tanners’ Bridge. This elegant Ottoman stone footbridge was once used by farmers in the highlands of the east to bring their livestock and agricultural products to market in Tirana. Overlooking the bridge, beneath some fragrant fig trees there is a small café, where you can sip a raki and enjoy the view. HOTEL BRILANT HOTEL ARBER HOTEL GRAND This small, family-run three-star hotel is situated in the centre of Tirana, in front of the Parliament building. It was opened in 2004 and has only 8 rooms but these are spacious with modern furniture. Please note there is no lift at this hotel. A recently built good standard three-star hotel located just one street away from Skanderbeg Square. A small, friendly hotel with 19 rooms equipped to a high standard complete with air-conditioning. Facilities include a small café. Located in a quiet part of Tirana, not far from Boulevard Deshmoret e Kombit. This small hotel has 18 elegantly decorated rooms, each with a balcony. Facilities include a swimming pool, jacuzzi and sauna. HOTEL BRILANT ALL YEAR ROUND Per Person Single Supplement £345 £33 HOTEL ARBER Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £27 £11 Per Person Single Supplement £380 £27 HOTEL GRAND Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £38 £9 Per Person Single Supplement £480 £108 Prices are per person and include three nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with British Airways and all air taxes. Flights: British Airways from London Gatwick Transfer: Tirana Rinas Mother Theresa Airport to city centre – 30 minutes Private transfer price: £28 per car one-way 8 Departures: Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays Flight duration: 3 hours Business class supplement: £360 Albanian visa on arrival: €10 per person REGENT HOLIDAYS - TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO ALBANIA SINCE 1970 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £72 £36 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:11 Page 9 SARAJEVO Sarajevo has a fascinating history, nestled between wooded hills and divided by the babbling ˆ ˆriver Milijica, in the centre of Bosnia Herzegovina. The Basearsija is the main market square, and the hub of the inner city with over 40 narrow lanes emanating from it – these lanes are filled with traders in copper, leather and woodwork. In the market you can buy carved wooden toys and handmade tin coffee pots and cups. Sarajevo is packed with places of worship. The neo-Gothic Roman Catholic Cathedral dates from 1889. The Jewish museum was a synagogue when it was built in 1556. A nearby Orthodox church has been there since 1539. Not to be missed is one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture, the Gazi Husrev Beg mosque, which first opened its doors in 1531. It is one of the many mosques in town and during the day you can hear the muezzin sound out from all over the city. Regent recommends…booking a walking tour of Lukomir. Located in the Bjelasnica's hinterlands, Lukomir is Bosnia’s highest village at 1,469 metres, with its ancient stecci (medieval tombstones) and traditional way of life – this is a unique opportunity to discover from the villagers how they live in such a beautiful but difficult environment. HOTEL HECCO HOTEL SARAJ HOTEL ASTRA A modern three-star hotel located 300 metres from the Old Bazaar. The hotel has 20 basic, contemporary rooms with satellite TV and mini-bar. Facilities include a stylish restaurant. This is a three-star hotel located just above the centre of Sarajevo and has wonderful city views. The hotel has 140 rooms in total and we book rooms with a city view, which have modern furniture and are equipped with satellite TV. The hotel has a good restaurant and indoor swimming pool. This is a small, modern four-star hotel located in the centre of the city. There are 30 large rooms with airconditioning, satellite TV and luxury bathrooms. Other facilities include a café and restaurant serving traditional Bosnian and international dishes. HOTEL HECCO ALL YEAR ROUND Per Person Single Supplement £345 £27 HOTEL SARAJ Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £24 £9 Per Person Single Supplement £385 £36 HOTEL ASTRA Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £38 £12 Per Person Single Supplement £565 £63 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £74 £21 Prices are per person and include three nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with Czech Airlines and all air taxes. Flights: Czech Airlines from London Heathrow Birmingham, Manchester and Edinburgh departures available for £20 supplement per person Transfer: Bosnia airport to city centre – 20 minutes Private transfer price: £35 per car one-way Departure: Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays Flight duration: 6 hours via Prague Business class supplement: £395 No visas required for UK passport holders REGENT HOLIDAYS – TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO BOSNIA SINCE 2005 9 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 DUBROVNIK 12:11 Page 10 NEW Dubrovnik, often referred to as the 'Pearl of the Adriatic', lies on the picturesque Dalmatian coast and offers an eclectic mix of historical buildings, ancient traditions and modern café culture. Although severely damaged by an earthquake in 1667, Dubrovnik managed to preserve its beautiful Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque churches, monasteries, palaces and fountains. Despite further damage in the 1990s by armed conflict, it is now the focus of a major restoration programme coordinated by UNESCO. Visit the Franciscan Monastery with its historic 15th century apothecary or the Dominican monastery, which houses paintings from the Dubrovnik school of art. Stroll along the cobbled paths and promenades and soak up the local atmosphere in one of the city’s many pavement cafes. Regent recommends… taking a ferry to the wooded, unspoilt island of Mljet, home to one of Croatia’s national parks, where according to legend, Odysseus was held captive for seven years. Look out for dolphins en route, as they can often be seen swimming close to the island’s shores. HOTEL IVKA HOTEL PERLA DUBROVNIK PALACE A newly-opened three-star hotel situated on the peninsula of Lapad. A direct bus service links the peninsula to the Old Town. There are 73 modern rooms and most have balconies. Facilities include a bar and restaurant. A good standard three-star hotel located on the peninsula of Lapad, over 2 miles from the Old Town and 45 metres from the beach. There are 20 modern rooms with air-conditioning and balconies. Facilities include a restaurant. A four-star hotel located on the Lapad peninsula, surrounded by sea and pine forests and set in beautiful gardens. There are 308 modern, stylish rooms with private balconies. Facilities include a terrace restaurant, beach restaurant, private beach, 1 indoor and 3 outdoor pools. HOTEL IVKA LOW SEASON 1 Jan - 29 Apr, 15 Oct - 31 Dec HIGH SEASON 30 Apr - 14 Oct Per Person Single Supplement £299 £335 HOTEL PERLA Extra nights Per Person Single Supplement £11 £299 £18 £380 Per Person Single Supp £33 £35 £54 £45 DUBROVNIK PALACE Extra nights Per Person Single Supplement £25 £485 £29 £650 Per Person Single Supp £75 £35 £87 £61 Per Person Single Supp £90 £96 £30 £117 £150 £39 Prices are per person and include three nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with British Airways and all air taxes. Flights: British Airways from London Gatwick Transfer: Dubrovnik airport to Old Town – 45 minutes Private transfer price: £35 per car one-way 10 REGENT HOLIDAYS - NEW FOR 2005 Departures: Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays Flight duration: 2 hours 45 minutes Business class supplement: £195 No visas required for UK passport holders Extra nights REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:11 Page 11 SPLIT Split is the largest city on the Dalmatian Coast of Croatia and is now listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It is a city of great historical and cultural interest that successfully blends the old and the new. At the heart of the city, closed in by houses and the harbour, lies a crumbling old town built within the Diocletian’s Palace, one of the most spectacular classical remains in Europe. These days Split is a lively bustling city of attractive old squares, outdoor cafés, restaurants, shops and stalls. The city is an ideal base for tours and excursions of the Makarska region and to the islands of Hvar and Brac. Regent recommends…visiting the picturesque town of Trogir, located ˆ 27 kilometres from Split. This is a wonderful place to explore and relax as there is a well-preserved Old Town and a gorgeous waterfront promenade lined with great cafés. HOTEL MARJAN HOTEL SPLIT HOTEL PRESIDENT This is a large, modern three-star hotel located on the promenade overlooking the harbour and 100 metres from the Diocletian Palace. There are 106 rooms, all with satellite TV, balcony and air-conditioning. Facilities include a restaurant, café-bar, pastry shop and terrace. A large three-star hotel located close to the beach and three kilometres from the city centre. There are 204 rooms which are modern with air-conditioning and satellite TV. Most rooms have a private balcony and sea view. Facilities include restaurant, café-bar, tavern, swimming pool and terrace. A small four-star hotel located in the old centre of Split not far from the Croatian National Theatre. There are 44 rooms in total. The standard comfort rooms are on the small side but have air-conditioning, satellite TV and balcony. Facilities include restaurant and cocktail bar. HOTEL MARJAN ALL YEAR ROUND* Per Person Twin Share Single Supplement £285 £60 HOTEL SPLIT Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £39 £20 Per Person Twin Share Single Supplement £280 £42 HOTEL PRESIDENT Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £47 £14 Per Person Twin Share Single Supplement £350 £108 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £70 £36 Prices are per person and include three nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with British Airways and all air taxes. * Flights begin operation on the 26th March. Flights: British Airways from London Gatwick Transfer: Split Airport to city centre – 35 minutes Private transfer price: £45 per car one-way Departures: Daily except Mondays Flight duration: 2 hours 50 minutes Business class supplement: £295 No visas required for UK passport holders REGENT HOLIDAYS – TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO CROATIA SINCE 2004 11 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:11 Page 12 ZAGREB Since the independence of Croatia in 1991, Zagreb has become a bustling cosmopolitan capital city boasting a rich historical and cultural heritage. The highlights lie within the thousand year old upper town of Gornji Grad. Here, one can find the Presidential Palace, the historic Church of St. Mark’s displaying the Croatian, Dalmatian and Slovenian coats of arms, now an impressive emblem of the city. Linking the upper town with the lower, is a charming funicular, said to be the shortest in Europe but well worth the 30 pence fare. The lower town of Donji Grad is the main commercial district with a variety of bars, restaurants and shops. Zagreb is not a city that will dazzle you at first sight but is certainly one you will come to appreciate. Regent recommends… for some quiet reflection, a visit to the Mirogoj Cemetery. Limegreen cupolas top the wall that surrounds this beautiful tree-lined resting place. Inside flickering candles, flowers, sculptures and ornate stonework set the scene whilst Catholic, Orthodox and Muslim graves rest side by side. HOTEL LAGUNA HOTEL PALACE THE REGENT ESPLANADE A large modern three-star hotel located one kilometre from the city centre or four stops on the tram from the main square. There are 345 spacious, light rooms with air-conditioning and satellite TV. Facilities include restaurant, bar and fitness room with sauna. An elegant four-star hotel built in 1891, centrally located next to Zrinjevac Park close to the main square. All 125 rooms have air-conditioning and satellite TV. Facilities include a restaurant and café. One of the most gracious buildings in Zagreb, built in 1925. A luxury five-star plus hotel located in the heart of the city centre. All 209 rooms are spacious and lavishly equipped. Facilities include Zinfandel’s restaurant, casino, fitness room and sauna. HOTEL LAGUNA ALL YEAR ROUND Per Person Single Supplement £345 £27 HOTEL PALACE Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £25 £9 Per Person Single Supplement £435 £96 THE REGENT ESPLANADE* Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £59 £32 Per Person Single Supplement £465 £168 Prices are per person and include three nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with Croatian Airlines and all air taxes. *These prices are valid for weekend stays only – contact us for mid-week stays Flights: Croatian Air from London Heathrow Saturday night stay is required Transfer: Zagreb Airport to city centre – 25 minutes Private transfer price: £30 per car one-way 12 Departures: Daily Flight duration: 2 hours 15 minutes Business class supplement: £225 No visas required for UK passport holders REGENT HOLIDAYS – TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO CROATIA SINCE 2004 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £90 £56 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:11 Page 13 SKOPJE Skopje – capital of the Republic of Macedonia is a crossroads where ancient Eastern and Western civilisations meet. It is a city of new boulevards, bridges, shops and cultural centres but it has retained the spirit of ancient times in the well-known Old Bazaar and other numerous vestiges from its past: The church of the Holy Saviour; the Church and Monastery of St Panteleimon in Nerezi, built in the 12th century and the Sultan Murat and Mustafa Pasha Mosques from the 15th century. Stroll across the Stone Bridge (built in the 15th century upon Roman foundations) into the old town, where national restaurants, museums, galleries and bars await exploration. Regent recommends…a day trip visiting the smallest ethnographical museum in the world as listed in the Guinness Book of Records. This museum is located in the picturesque village of Dzepcishte, near the St. Bogorodica Monastery. There are over 1000 items on display and there is only space in the museum for one visitor at a time. HOTEL JADRAN HOTEL ARKA This is a small three-star hotel with 20 basic and simply decorated rooms located in the city centre. All rooms have airconditioning, satellite TV and mini-bar. Facilities include a small restaurant. A medium-sized luxury fourstar hotel located about 800 metres from the Old Bazaar and other main sights. The rooms are modern with airconditioning, satellite TV and mini-bar. Facilities include an indoor and rooftop swimming pool, pool bar and restaurant. HOTEL JADRAN ALL YEAR ROUND Twin Share Single Supplement £360 N/A HOTEL ARKA Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £33 N/A Twin Share Single Supplement £440 £66 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £58 £33 All accommodation prices are per with breakfast, return flights with Czech Airlines and all air taxes. Prices are per person and include three nights Flights: Czech Airlines from London Heathrow Birmingham, Manchester and Edinburgh departures available for £20 supplement per person Transfer: Skopje Airport to city centre – 40 minutes Private transfer price: £28 per car one-way Departures: Daily except Mondays and Wednesdays Flight duration: 4 hours 15 minutes via Prague Business class supplement: £395 No visas required for UK passport holders REGENT HOLIDAYS – TAILOR-MADE SPECIALIST TO MACEDONIA SINCE 2004 13 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:11 Page 14 BELGRADE Belgrade is now firmly back where it belongs, at the heart of Europe. Fortunately, the sole evidence now of its many conquerors and former despots is in its architecture. Name a style from the 17th century or from the 20th century, and it will be there. Yet Belgrade is more than just its buildings; the Danube and its hilly surroundings are as important as the city itself. The Old Town is compact enough for walking everywhere and cars are banned from many of its streets to ensure this is enjoyable. Should the weather change or tiredness threaten, the cafés tempt not only with their choice of cakes but also with prices probably the lowest in Europe. Regent recommends…for a taste of Serbia head to ‘Mali korzo’ restaurant on Bulevar Kralja Aleksandra. Sample delicious Njegos smoked ham and local cheeses from Zlatibor and Pljevlje as well as a good selection of grilled meat. Reservations are recommended! HOTEL KASINA HOTEL MOSKVA HYATT REGENCY BELGRADE One of Belgrade’s oldest hotels built in 1856 located in the city centre. This is a basic hotel with 80 modern rooms. Facilities include a restaurant and summer garden. A large three-star hotel located in the heart of the city, not far from Knez Mihailova Street. Rooms are moderate and slightly old fashioned. Facilities include several bars, terrace café and restaurants. An excellent international five-star hotel located in the new area of Belgrade. There are 308 spacious, elegantly decorated rooms. Facilities include restaurant, jazz club, fitness centre and teahouse. HOTEL KASINA ALL YEAR ROUND Per Person Single Supplement £299 N/A HYATT REGENCY BELGRADE* HOTEL MOSKVA Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £30 N/A Per Person Single Supplement £399 £144 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £61 £48 Per Person Single Supplement £499 £162 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £120 £54 Prices are per person and include three nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with British Airways and all air taxes. * These prices are valid for weekend stays only – contact us for mid-week stays Flights: British Airways from London Heathrow Transfer: Belgrade Airport to city centre – 20 minutes Private transfer price: £26 per car one-way E FRE Departures: Daily except Tuesdays and Thursdays ES A LUD Flight duration: 2 hours 40 minutes INC E NOW RAD Business class supplement: £290 ELG TO B IDE No visas required for UK passport holders U G Y CIT 14 REGENT HOLIDAYS - TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO SERBIA SINCE 2004 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:11 Page 15 LJUBLJANA Ljubljana is the stunning capital city of Slovenia, coveted over the centuries by the Celts, Illyrians, Romans and finally Slavs. You can find glimpses of this varied heritage throughout the city, but the very heart of this compact capital lies in the medieval Old Town that nestles in the shadow of an ancient hilltop castle. The embankment of the River Ljubljanica is a pleasant place to spend your evenings, either sitting in one of the jolly outdoor cafés and restaurants or just walking and climbing to the castle hill for a panoramic view across to the Julian Alps and the imposing Mount Triglav. Numerous parks and one of Europe’s most vibrant cultural scenes complement the special atmosphere of the city and give it an unforgettable charm. Regent recommends…experiencing a different perspective of Ljubljana with a hot air balloon ride over the capital! During summer months in early mornings and evenings you can take the 90 minute flight (weather permitting!) over Ljubljana. HOTEL PARK CITY HOTEL GRAND HOTEL UNION This is a two-star hotel centrally located in a quiet area of the city, about 800 metres from the railway station. The hotel has 145 basic, small rooms (bathrooms have showers only). Facilities include a restaurant. This is a good standard three-star hotel situated in the centre of the city, some 300 metres from the railway station. There are 122 modern, spacious rooms and facilities include a restaurant and bicycle rental shop. A large four-star hotel divided into two parts; executive and business. We book the executive rooms, which are spacious, elegantly decorated and have air-conditioning. The hotel is centrally located and facilities include 2 restaurants and fitness centre with indoor pool. HOTEL PARK ALL YEAR ROUND Per Person Twin Share Single Supplement £295 £48 CITY HOTEL Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £33 £16 Per Person Twin Share Single Supplement £330 £60 GRAND HOTEL UNION Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £50 £20 Per Person Twin Share Single Supplement £355 £135 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £69 £45 Prices are per person and include three nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with Adria Airways and all air taxes. Flights: Adria Airways from London Gatwick Transfer: Ljubljana Airport to city centre – 40 minutes Private transfer price: £35 per car one-way Departures: Daily Flight duration: 2 hours 5 minutes Business class supplement: £590 No visas required for UK passport holders REE AF DES CLU IN NA NOW LJA JUB TO L IDE U G CITY REGENT HOLIDAYS – TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO SLOVENIA SINCE 2004 15 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:11 Page 16 TALLINN UNIQUESTAY HOTEL A good standard three-star hotel in two buildings located at the foot of Toompea Hill, just outside the Old Town. There are 75 modern rooms with tea/coffee making facilities and computers with free internet access. Facilities include a sauna and café. HOTEL IMPERIAL A superb small four-star hotel built into the old city wall of Tallinn. The building dates back to the 19th century and has been completely renovated into a very smart and cosy four-star property! There are 32 spacious rooms, a small restaurant, pub and sauna. UNIQUESTAY HOTEL LOW SEASON 1 Jan - 30 Apr, 1 Oct - 30 Dec HIGH SEASON 1 May - 30 Sep Per Person Single Supplement £279 £295 HOTEL PARK CONSUL SCHLOSSLE This five-star hotel is located in the heart of Tallinn’s Old Town. Its massive wood beams, antique furnishings, and green and plum colour décor gives this unique hotel a luxurious baronial atmosphere. Each of the 24 rooms is individually designed and there is also very good restaurant. HOTEL PARK CONSUL SCHLÖSSLE HOTEL IMPERIAL Extra nights Per Person Single Supplement £18 £365 £31 £375 Per Person Single Supp £54 £24 £93 £35 Extra nights Per Person Single Supplement £35 £395 £37 £449 Per Person Single Supp £105 £58 £111 £60 Prices are per person and include three nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with Estonian Air and all air taxes. 16 REGENT HOLIDAYS – TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO ESTONIA SINCE 1980 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £150 £75 £51 £180 £93 £60 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:11 Page 17 TALLINN The medieval capital of Tallinn sits proudly on the Baltic coast, 30 miles from Helsinki. It is probably the most modern of the Baltic capitals, awash with chic cafés, gourmet restaurants and trendy bars. At the heart of this modernity is Tallinn’s ancient city centre, an enchanting 13th-century muddle of church spires and red slate roofs connected by a maze of cobbled streets. Admire them leisurely from a café in Town Hall Square. There is plenty to keep visitors occupied, from visiting Tallinn’s many museums and churches to flexing your credit cards in the sparkling new designer shops of the centre. Any walking tour should include the 14th-century Gothic Town Hall, the pink Parliament Building, Nevsky Cathedral and the dramatic videos shown at the Tallinn City Museum. MERITON OLD TOWN HOTEL A new three-star hotel located at the edge of the Old Town. The hotel is in an historic building with the reception built into the city walls. There are 41 cosy rooms over four floors and an attic. There is also a lobby bar and a good café. 1 Jan - 31 Mar, 1 Oct - 30 Dec HIGH SEASON 1 Apr - 30 Sep MERCHANTS HOUSE HOTEL The Merchant’s House Hotel is a boutique hotel located in the Old Town. The hotel has 33 rooms, which all vary in shape and design due to the character of the 14th & 16th century historical buildings. There is also an excellent café, brasserie, summer terrace and Tallinn’s first Ice Bar. DOMINA INN CITY Domina Inn City is a four-star hotel located in the heart of the Old Town. The hotel has 68 rooms in total. The 31 standard rooms are comfortable and all rooms have computers with high-speed internet connections. Facilities include a restaurant, bar and sauna. MERITON OLD TOWN HOTEL LOW SEASON Regent recommends…watching a performance at the newly renovated National Opera House, this impressive Jugend-classicistic theatre building was designed by Finnish architects Armas Lindgren and Wivi Lönn and has been lovingly restored to its former glory. Per Person Single Supplement £280 £299 Extra nights DOMINA INN CITY Per Person Single Supplement £21 £320 £31 £345 Per Person Single Supp £63 £30 £75 £35 MERCHANTS HOUSE HOTEL Extra nights Per Person Single Supplement £30 £325 £50 £380 Per Person Single Supp £90 £41 £150 £50 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £105 £44 £35 £132 £63 £44 Prices are per person and include three nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with Estonian Air and all air taxes. SIGHTSEEING TOURS All tours quoted are for minimum 2 persons and include transfers with private car (unless otherwise stated) and English speaking guide. CITY TOUR (2.5 HOURS) This is a walking tour of Tallinn which starts in the oldest part of the city - the Upper Town (Toompea). The tour includes visits to the Aleksandr Nevsky Cathedral (a Russian Orthodox Church built in 1900), the 13thcentury Gothic style Dome Church and the outside view of the Toompea Castle (presently the seat of Estonian Parliament). The Upper Town viewing platforms offer excellent bird’s eye views of the Lower Town. The tour then continues in the Lower Town with a visit to the Great Guild and Blackheads Fraternity Houses and the Town Hall. £35 per person OPEN AIR MUSEUM ROCCA AL MARE (3 HOURS) This wonderful museum is located only four miles from the city centre of Tallinn (which is approximately a 15-20 minutes drive). The name Rocca al Mare alludes to its seaside location and means ‘cliff by the sea’. The tour begins with a walk through a beautiful forest where you can catch glimpses of the sea coast. The museum covers 79 hectares displaying authentic examples of 18th and 19th century rural architecture farmhouses, country inns, windmills, watermills and chapels. £55 per person. Flights: Estonian Air from London Gatwick and Manchester Transfer: Tallinn Airport to Old Town – 15 minutes Private transfer price: £20 per car one-way LAHEMAA NATIONAL PARK (7 HOURS) The National Park is located approximately one hours drive from Tallinn. Lahemaa covers intact landscapes of different types – coastal lowlands, pine forests, limestone cliffs, stone fields, waterfalls and rapids. In the park there are several well-restored manor houses which show a wonderful example of 18th and 19th century Estonian manorial life. This tour also includes a trip to a fishing village and a stop in a country tavern where you can sample traditional fisherman’s food (not included in price of tour). £125 per person Departures: Daily from London Gatwick and Tuesday, Thursday REE and Sunday from Manchester AF DES CLU Flight duration: 2 hours 55 minutes IN NOW INN Business class supplement: £365 ALL TO T IDE No visas required for UK passport holders Y GU CIT REGENT HOLIDAYS – TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO ESTONIA SINCE 1980 17 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:11 Page 18 RIGA HOTEL KONVENTA SETA This unique three-star hotel comprising of 9 medieval buildings is centrally located in the Old Town of Riga. There are 141 simply decorated rooms and apartments, although some rooms have shower only. Facilities include a restaurant and bar. HOTEL GUTENBERGS A charming three-star plus hotel located in an historic building next to the Dome Cathedral. Rooms are bright, spacious and elegantly furnished. Each floor is dedicated to the origins of Latvian literature. The hotel has a summer terrace overlooking the Old Town. HOTEL KONVENTA SETA ALL YEAR ROUND Per Person Single Supplement £245 £87 HOTEL DE ROME The five-star Hotel De Rome is located in the heart of the city overlooking the Freedom Monument. There are 88 wellequipped rooms and facilities include a sauna, beauty centre, an excellent bar with live popular opera music and an elegant restaurant ‘Otto Schwarz’. HOTEL GUTENBERGS Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £35 £29 Per Person Single Supplement £260 £96 HOTEL DE ROME Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £40 £32 Per Person Single Supplement £310 £126 Prices are per person and include three nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with British Airways and all air taxes. 18 REGENT HOLIDAYS – TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO LATVIA SINCE 1980 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £56 £42 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:11 Page 19 RIGA Riga has been a crossroads of trade and culture throughout history - and it still is. A vibrant atmosphere is in the air thanks to busy street cafés and restaurants, countless art galleries, a renowned National Opera and the Monument of Freedom symbol of the Latvian nation. The Central Market stretches in a series of huge Zeppelin hangars where you can join locals in buying cheese, black bread, fresh honey and forest mushrooms. Riga offers the world’s highest concentration of Art Nouveau architecture, while the Old Town presents you with more than 800 years of history. Stroll through its narrow cobbled streets, pass by the 13th-century Dome Cathedral and enjoy a panoramic view from the top of St Peter’s Church spire. AVITAR HOTEL This three-star hotel is located just over a kilometre from the Old Town on Kr. Valdemara St. There are 37 modern, comfortable rooms that have a seating area. Facilities include a restaurant and bar. HOTEL BERGS An excellent four-star boutique hotel located one kilometre from the Old Town in the Bergs Bazaar, a tranquil courtyard of cafés, restaurants and upmarket shops. There are 38 individually designed rooms. Facilities include a terrace café, bar restaurant and fitness centre. AVITAR HOTEL LOW SEASON 1 Jan - 31 Mar, 1 Nov - 30 Dec HIGH SEASON 1 Apr - 31 Oct Regent recommends…catching local bus number 1 to the Ethnographic Open Air Museum (the stop is called Brivdabas Muzejs). Here you can view authentic wooden houses, windmills and farmsteads from all over Latvia set in a beautiful pine forest on Lake Jugla. Per Person Single Supplement £240 £255 HOTEL GRAND PALACE A superb five-star property located in an attractive 3-storey building built in 1890.The hotel is located in the heart of the Old Town. There are 56 rooms with deluxe furnishings and air-conditioning. Facilities include sauna, health club and the elegant Seasons Restaurant. HOTEL BERGS Extra nights Per Person Single Supplement £20 £325 £36 £395 Per Person Single Supp £60 £27 £78 £37 HOTEL GRAND PALACE Extra nights Per Person Single Supplement £65 £355 £90 £370 Per Person Single Supp £195 £65 £270 £92 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £132 £69 £44 £153 £79 £51 Prices are per person and include three nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with British Airways and all air taxes. SIGHTSEEING TOURS All tours quoted are for minimum 2 persons and include transfers with private car (unless otherwise stated) and English speaking guide. RIGA CITY TOUR (3 HOURS) This tour includes the most significant sights of Riga. By foot you will see the Dome Cathedral, the Church of St. Peter, the old Guild Houses, Swedish Gate, the Three Brothers, St. Jacob’s Church, Parliament House, and Old Riga Castle. The second part of tour is by car along the central boulevards of Riga, passing by City Canal parks, Bastion Hill, Powder Tower, the Latvian National Theatre, the Fine Arts Museum and visiting the wonderful Art Nouveau district. £64 per person Flights: British Airways from London Gatwick Transfer: Riga Airport to Old Town – 20 minutes Private transfer price: £15 per car one-way RUNDALE PALACE (5 HOURS) This tour visits Rundale Palace, an impressive Baroque palace near the town of Bauska (66 km south of Riga). The palace, built in the 18th century, is an outstanding example of the early work of Italian-Russian architect Francesco Bartolomeo Rastrelli, who also designed the famous Winter Palace in St.Petersburg. The professionally renovated palace interiors are decorated with authentic 18th century furniture, paintings and china. The most impressive are the Golden Hall and the White Hall. £95 per person. CESIS (7 HOURS) A full day tour to the heart of Vidzeme - the beautiful medieval Hanseatic town, located about 90 km from Riga. Before reaching Cesis, a short stop is made at the site of the Castle on Araisi Lake, dating back to the 9th century. In Cesis the tour includes a stroll through narrow streets passing by the 13th century Order of Knight's Castle, the 13th century Church of St.John, a visit to the local History Museum and the Palace Park. After a short drive through the countryside another stop is made at the highest sandstone cliffs in Latvia - Erglu Klintis located on the picturesque Gauja River banks. £115 per person Departures: Daily Flight duration: 2 hours 45 minutes Business class supplement: £235 No visas required for UK passport holders E FRE ES A LUD INC A NOW RIG E TO GUID CITY REGENT HOLIDAYS – TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO LATVIA SINCE 1980 19 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:11 Page 20 VILNIUS HOTEL CITY GATE This is a small three-star hotel located near the Gates of Dawn. The hotel has 23 modern, light rooms, which have air-conditioning, TV, telephone, mini-bar and internet connection. The hotel also has a restaurant. HOTEL BARBACAN PALACE A three-star plus hotel located in the Old Town, not far from St Anne’s Church. There are 33 modern, spacious rooms with air-conditioning, satellite TV and mini-bar. Facilities include a breakfast room, fitness centre and sauna (extra charge payable) HOTEL CITY GATE ALL YEAR ROUND Per Person Single Supplement £245 £87 NARUTIS HOTEL This is a unique, luxury four-star plus hotel located in the Old Town. It has 50 stylish rooms individually decorated with frescoes and wall paintings. There is an excellent cellar restaurant and café. HOTEL BARBACAN PALACE Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £35 £29 Per Person Single Supplement £260 £99 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £38 £33 NARUTIS HOTEL Per Person Single Supplement £280 £87 Prices are per person and include three nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with British Airways and all air taxes. 20 REGENT HOLIDAYS – TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO LITHUANIA SINCE 1980 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £45 £29 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:11 Page 21 VILNIUS The city of churches with a steeple view on every corner, this is a true Baltic gem. Vilnius has the largest Old Town in Europe, where visitors discover a treasure trove of pristine winding streets and colourful buildings. Baroque enthusiasts will never have enough time to see everything, so a repeat visit is almost inevitable. Every city tour should include the Cathedral, Peter and Paul Church and the Gates of Dawn. Try also to include the Applied Arts Museum, which displays several centuries of Lithuanian religious craftsmanship in wood, metal and fabrics, much of which was previously hidden. At night, discover Vilnius’s lively side - a host of friendly bars, restaurants and cafés offer a wide range of delicious food and drink. Many of the best eateries and watering holes are tucked away in the alleys of the Old Town. HOTEL RINNO A good standard three-star hotel located just outside the Old Town. There are 15 modern rooms with large bathrooms. Some rooms have a good view of the Old Town. The hotel serves a good buffet breakfast including made to order pancakes. CITY PARK HOTEL This four-star hotel is located in the Old Town across from the Vilnius Cathedral. There are 75 comfortable rooms. Facilities include a good Italian restaurant and sauna with plunge pool. HOTEL RINNO* ALL YEAR ROUND Regent recommends…heading out of town to Grütas Park - a bizarre collection of old Soviet statues of Lenin and Stalin laid out in a sculpture park near the spa town of Druskininkai. Per Person Single Supplement £235 £60 RADISSON SAS ASTORIA HOTEL This five-star hotel is located in the heart of the Old Town and has 120 well-equipped rooms in classical décor. The hotel has an extensive health club with an indoor pool, fitness centre, sauna and jacuzzi. RADISSON SAS ASTORIA HOTEL* CITY PARK HOTEL* Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £34 £20 Per Person Single Supplement £255 £81 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £40 £27 Per Person Single Supplement £290 £99 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £69 £33 Prices are per person and include three nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with British Airways and all air taxes. * These prices are valid for weekend stays only – contact us for mid-week stays SIGHTSEEING TOURS All tours quoted are for minimum two persons and include transfers with private car and English speaking guide. VILNIUS CITY TOUR (3 HOURS) This walking tour takes in the historical Old Town of Vilnius including Vilnius Cathedral and its square, the University campus, Pilies Street (with 16th –18th historical and architectural monuments), Gothic corner of Vilnius with St Anne's and Bernardine churches, the former Town Hall square, the Dawn Gate (with a miraculous icon of Virgin Mary) and the 17th century Baroque church of St Peter and Paul. £55 per person TRAKAI (4 HOURS) This former ancient capital of Lithuania is located 28 km west of Vilnius in a beautiful natural area with over 30 lakes. The redbricked Trakai Castle & Museum is the only insular castle throughout Eastern Europe and is a popular historical-architectural monument. Trakai is also home to the Karaites, a Turkic ethnic group practicing a religion akin to Judaism, who came to Lithuania from the Crimea in the 14th century as warriors for Grand Duke Vytautas. £65 per person Flights: British Airways from London Gatwick Transfer: Vilnius Airport to Old Town – 15 minutes Private transfer price: £15 per car one-way GRUTAS PARK (6 HOURS) Officially, the 30-hectare complex is called the Soviet Sculpture Garden at Grutas Park and is located 140 kilometres from Vilnius. This is a unique park in which pompous statues of soviet revolutionaries and political leaders, once dominating squares of Lithuanian towns and villages, have found their shelter after being removed more than 10 years ago. It is easy to see why residents of the nearby village of Grutas have dubbed it ‘Stalin World’. £110 per person Departures: Daily Flight duration: 2 hours 50 minutes Business class supplement: £160 No visas required for UK passport holders E FRE ES A LUD INC IUS NOW VILN E TO GUID Y CIT REGENT HOLIDAYS – TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO LITHUANIA SINCE 1980 21 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd PALANGA 10/1/06 12:11 Page 22 NEW Follow the Amber Road on this unique weekend break to Palanga. Although this seaside town is a-year-round destination, it really comes alive during the summer months. There is a long sandy beach, backed by dunes and with conservation of the landscape in mind, no beachfront properties or promenades have been built. In the town of Palanga there are plenty of bars, restaurants, cafes and fun fairs to provide entertainment for all ages. This part of Lithuania is known as the Amber Coast with ‘Baltic Gold’ amber being washed up on shore, especially after a storm – so a visit must be made to the fascinating Amber Museum set in a beautiful landscaped park. From Palanga it is also possible to visit the Curonian Spit, which is a highlight of any trip to Lithuania. The sand dunes are spectacular and it is eerie to think that there are as many as 14 villages buried under the shifting sands. The spooky ‘Hill of Witches’ is a must-see with its intricately wood-carved statues standing amongst dark whispering trees. The pretty village of Nida is an excellent place for lunch and to wander amongst the blue-painted wooden cottages surrounded by gardens of colourful flowers. Regent recommends… sampling our favourite Lithuanian delicacies saltibarsciai, a delicious cold beetroot soup, which is refreshing in summer and in winter try cepelinai - potato dumplings with meat filling, topped with onions in a delicious cream sauce. HOTEL ALANGA HOTEL PALANGOS VETRA HOTEL MAMA ROSA A good standard three-star hotel located in the centre of Palanga close to Basanavicius Street and the Botanical Park. There are 48 modern rooms, most have balconies. Facilities include a restaurant, sauna and small indoor pool. This modern four-star hotel was renovated in 1998. It is located close to the Amber Museum and the sea. There are 31 rooms and each room is bright, spacious with air-conditioning, satellite TV and mini bars. The hotel has a restaurant, swimming pool, sauna, and steam room, bicycle and car rental office. This modern four-star villa is located in the town centre, about 400 metres to the sea. There are 8 classically decorated rooms with air-conditioning, satellite TV, phones, mini bars, and hair-dryers. The hotel also has a good restaurant bar, open-air terrace, lounge and sauna. HOTEL ALANGA LOW SEASON 1 Jan - 31 May, 21 Aug - 31 Dec HIGH SEASON 1 Jun - 20 Aug Per Person Single Supplement £390 £395 HOTEL PALANGOS VETRA Extra nights Per Person Single Supplement £15 £415 £19 £454 Per Person Single Supp £45 £20 £57 £25 HOTEL MAMA ROSA Extra nights Per Person Single Supplement £27 £420 £27 £475 Per Person Single Supp £81 £28 £81 £40 Per Person Single Supp £60 £29 £20 £60 £47 £20 Prices are per person and include three nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with Scandinavian Airlines and all air taxes. Flights: Scandinavian Airlines from London Heathrow, London City and Birmingham. Manchester, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Newcastle departures may be available for £49 supplement per person Transfer: Palanga airport to Old Town – 15 minutes Private transfer price: £25 per car one-way 22 REGENT HOLIDAYS - NEW FOR 2006 Extra nights Departures: Daily Flight duration: 3 hours 55 minutes via Copenhagen Business class supplement: N/A No visas required for UK passport holders REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:11 Page 23 MINSK Visiting Belarus is like stepping back into the Soviet Union. After total destruction during the Second World War, Minsk, the Belarussian capital, was reconstructed in the 1950s as a model Soviet city. Located on the banks of the Svisloch River, Minsk passed up its post-war chance to Europeanise like its Baltic neighbours, and visitors can judge for themselves how effective their neo-communist model was. Lenin still stands proudly in the main square. If the Soviet style becomes too much, you can seek refuge in more classical attractions. Taste regional specialities such as Belarussian Borshch (beetroot soup served with sour cream) and Draniki (potato pancakes), washed down with Belovezhskaya Bitter, the local beer made with 100 different herbs. Regent recommends…a chilling visit to the birthplace of Felix Dzerzhinsky, founder of the Soviet secret police. Located some 20 miles east of Minsk in the town of Kojdanava there is a memorial complex which includes a museum and bust of him. HOTEL YUBILEINAYA HOTEL MINSK This is a large centrally located three-star hotel close to the Old Town, theatres and sports stadium. There are 191 rooms over 13 floors and despite maintaining a Soviet exterior, the interior has been renovated. Facilities include restaurant, bar and coffee shop. The city’s only four-star hotel, recently renovated and located close to Independence Square. All rooms have air-conditioning, satellite TV, direct dial telephone, radio, safe and hairdryer. Facilities include a restaurant, bar, café and fitness centre. HOTEL YUBILEINAYA ALL YEAR ROUND Per Person Single Supplement £340 £36 HOTEL MINSK Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £21 £12 Per Person Single Supplement £430 £81 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £51 £27 Prices are per person and include three nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with Czech Airlines and all air taxes. Flights: Czech Airlines from London Heathrow Birmingham, Manchester and Edinburgh departures available for £20 supplement per person Transfer: Minsk International 2 Airport to city centre – 40 minutes Private transfer price: £25 per car one-way Departures: Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays Flight duration: 4 hours 50 minutes via Prague Business class supplement: £395 Belarussian visa required: see page 49 REGENT HOLIDAYS - TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO BELARUS SINCE 1997 23 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:12 Page 24 YEREVAN Whether your interest lies in art, architecture, language, religion or simply good food and wine, Yerevan has a unique range of attractions to offer. Along with its status as the first country to adopt Christianity as a state religion, Armenia’s greatest pride is its ancient language, one of the first to appear in written form. The Matenadaran Manuscript Museum, home to over 12,000 beautifully illustrated manuscripts dating back to 887 AD, is unmissable. Views of Mount Ararat, rising out of clouds to the west, are best from Erebuni Fortress Museum set on hills overlooking the city. A drive through the green hills, east of Yerevan, will lead you to the spectacularly situated pagan temple of the sun at Garni. In cliffs further up the wooded river valley, Armenia’s Christian heritage is reflected in the extraordinary acoustics of the 7th-century Gerghard Cave Monastery. Regent recommends…bartering for hand-made jewellery, obsidian chess sets, carpets, abstract paintings at Vernissage. This huge weekend open-air flea market is centrally located on Pavstos Biuzand Boulevard – just follow the crowds. HOME-STAY HOTEL AVIATRANS HOTEL CONGRESS Stay in a large, centrally located and spotlessly clean flat with one friendly, unintrusive owner-occupier. There is one comfortable twin bedroom available with shared bathroom, lounge and kitchen. Enormous Armenian breakfasts included. A good standard three-star hotel located in the city centre, close to the Republic Square. All 16 rooms are spacious and have air-conditioning. Facilities include a restaurant. A lovely four-star hotel located close to the Republic Square. There are 126 modern rooms with air-conditioning but standard rooms have showers only. Facilities include restaurant, bar and an attractive outdoor pool. HOME-STAY LOW SEASON 1 Jan - 16 Jun, 1 Sep - 15 Dec HIGH SEASON 17 Jun - 31 Aug, 16 - 31 Dec Twin Share Single Supplement £565 £625 HOTEL AVIATRANS Extra nights Twin Share Single Supplement N/A £610 N/A £660 Per Person Single Supp N/A £20 N/A £20 HOTEL CONGRESS Extra nights Twin Share Single Supplement £13 £650 £13 £710 Per Person Single Supp £39 £32 £39 £32 Per Person Single Supp £54 £46 £18 £54 £46 £18 Allthree prices Prices are per person and include nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with British Airways and all air taxes. Flights: British Airways from London Heathrow Transfer: Zvartnots Airport to city centre – 25 minutes Private transfer price: £25 per car one-way 24 Departures: Daily Flight duration: 5 hours Business class supplement: £1075 Armenia visa on arrival: see page 49 REGENT HOLIDAYS - TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO ARMENIA SINCE 1987 Extra nights REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:12 Page 25 BAKU Although it is the largest and most populous of the South Caucasian republics Azerbaijan, which lies on the western shore of the Caspian Sea, remains the least explored by foreign visitors. Baku has a distinctly Eastern feel with carpet shops, colourful spice markets and sun-baked streets. Enter the arched gates of the Old Town and explore the 15th century Palace of the Shirvan Shahs, with its mausolea, mosques and terraced royal buildings. Baku is a modern and cosmopolitan city with new restaurants and bars opening by the minute. Take a stroll along the seafront promenade before finding a café in central Fountain Square and watching the world go by. Regent recommends…dining at the Mugam Club located in the Icheri Sheher (the Old City). In this former caravansarai you can sample tasty ‘national’ dishes such plov and shaslik whilst watching traditional Azeri dancers and singers. HOTEL ABSHERON HOTEL DIPLOMAT RADISSON SAS PLAZA HOTEL This large Soviet-style three-star hotel is located on the sea front, not far from the Fountain Square. Rooms are basic and old-fashioned. Facilities include several restaurants, bars and health club. This boutique hotel is located in the centre of Baku, close to the Republic Palace. The 24 rooms are modern, well-equipped with air-conditioning. Facilities include a restaurant on the 9th floor. A centrally located luxury five-star hotel overlooking the Caspian Sea. This hotel has 40 spacious suite rooms with air-conditioning. Facilities include a business centre, fitness centre with stylish indoor swimming pool. HOTEL ABSHERON LOW SEASON 1 Jan - 16 Jun, 1 Sep - 15 Dec HIGH SEASON 17 Jun - 31 Aug, 16 Dec - 31 Dec Per Person Single Supplement £665 £725 RADISSON SAS PLAZA HOTEL HOTEL DIPLOMAT Extra nights Per Person Single Supplement £26 £695 £26 £755 Per Person Single Supp £78 £29 £78 £29 Extra nights Per Person Single Supplement £51 £870 £51 £930 Per Person Single Supp £153 £56 £153 £56 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £276 £92 £92 £276 £92 £92 REGENT HOLIDAYS - TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO AZERBAIJAN SINCE 1999 25 Prices are per person and include three nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with British Airways and all air taxes. Flights: British Airways from London Heathrow Transfer: Baku Bina Airport to city centre - 40 minutes Private transfer price: £30 per car one-way Departures: Daily Flight duration: 5 hours 35 minutes Business class supplement: £1275 Azeri visa on arrival: see page 49 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:12 Page 26 TBILISI Tbilisi, from a word meaning ‘warm’, is Georgia’s picturesque, tree-shaded capital. In the centre of town a profusion of houses seem to rub shoulders as their balconies, draped in plants, almost touch over the cobbled streets. Along the gorge of the Mtkvari River, buildings, bathed in summer-long sunshine, cling precariously to the high red cliffs. Thanks to Georgia’s pre-Soviet religious tolerance, Tbilisi is home to an eclectic mix of orthodox churches, mosques and synagogues. You will have a superb view of all these, and more besides, from the battlements of Narikala Fortress, which sits above the Old town. Regent recommends…sampling khachapuri. This quintessential Georgian starter is a thin pie-type of bread filled with mildly salted cheese. There are several waist-expanding varieties and one of our favourites is Ajaruli Khachapuri, which comes from the Ajara region around Batumi. An egg is added to the diamond shaped crust just before serving! HOME-STAY HOTEL KALA TBILISI MARRIOTT COURTYARD Stay in a large, centrally located apartment with a family of three. Excellent Georgian hospitality awaits as well as tasty local cuisine. Some English is spoken and you share the bathroom and lounge with the family. Hotel Kala is a small three-star hotel located in the Old Town of Tbilisi. There are 11 double and 2 single simply furnished rooms which have air-conditioning. Facilities include a restaurant. This four-star hotel is located in the city centre on Freedom Square. There are 116 standard rooms with air-conditioning, satellite TV and lounge area. Facilities include a café, restaurant, in-door/outdoor pool, fitness centre and sauna. HOME-STAY LOW SEASON 1 Jan - 16 Jun, 1 Sep - 15 Dec HIGH SEASON 17 Jun - 31 Aug, 16 - 31 Dec Twin Share Single Supplement £535 £595 HOTEL KALA Extra nights Twin Share Single Supplement N/A £535 N/A £590 Per Person Single Supp N/A £25 N/A £25 TBILISI MARRIOTT COURTYARD Extra nights Twin Share Single Supplement N/A £715 N/A £775 Per Person Single Supp N/A £25 N/A £25 Per Person Single Supp £207 £85 £69 £207 £85 £69 Allthree prices Prices are per person and include nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with British Airways and all air taxes. Flights: British Airways from London Heathrow Transfer: Tbilisi International Airport to city centre – 25 minutes Private transfer price: £25 per car one-way 26 Departures: Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays Flight duration: 5 hours and 10 minutes Business class supplement: £1075 No visa required for UK passport holders REGENT HOLIDAYS - TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO GEORGIA SINCE 1987 Extra nights REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:21 Page 27 TEHRAN NEW Tehran, literally meaning the ‘End of the Road,’ is no longer the outpost that its name implies. Whilst not the cultural centre of the nation it is without a doubt the vibrant heart, when it comes to social change. Unlike in rural Iran, Tehranis are increasingly pushing the boundaries of acceptable fashion and behaviour t-shirts and jeans are de rigueur for the boys and for the girls headscarves are slipping back and manteaus are rising up - along with the eyebrows of the disregarded mullahs who overlook all of this with disapproval. Amongst this dynamic atmosphere the city boasts breathtaking palaces and museums, endless bazaars, fine food and a constant bustle - making Tehran a fascinating and alternative city break destination. Regent recommends…for a quick lunch in between sightseeing try dizi, a delicious soup-stew combination of lamb, chickpeas and flat bread cooked and served in a stone jar. You'll find it in any chaykhuneh (teahouse). MASHAD HOTEL BOZORG-E TEHRAN HOTEL LALEH INTERNATIONAL HOTEL A good standard centrally located three-star hotel. It has 90 recently renovated rooms over 6 floors and facilities include a restaurant and health club. This four-star hotel is centrally located in the main business and shopping area. There are 400 elegant rooms and suites that have air-conditioning, satellite TV and mini-bar. Facilities include an indoor pool, fitness centre, three restaurants and a coffee shop. This is a large five-star hotel centrally located in Laleh Park with stunning views of Mount Damavand and Alborz. There are 400 elegantly decorated rooms with air-conditioning and a lounge area. Facilities include 3 restaurants, one of which is an excellent Persian, swimming pool and coffee shop. MASHAD HOTEL LOW SEASON 1 Jan - 16 Jun, 1 Sep - 15 Dec HIGH SEASON 17 Jun - 31 Aug, 16 - 31 Dec Twin Share Single Supplement £599 £625 BOZORG-E TEHRAN HOTEL Extra nights Twin Share Single Supplement £11 £629 £11 £655 Per Person Single Supp £33 £27 £33 £27 Extra nights LALEH INTERNATIONAL HOTEL Twin Share Single Supplement £16 £689 £16 £715 Per Person Single Supp £48 £31 £48 £31 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £105 £51 £35 £48 £51 £35 REGENT HOLIDAYS - NEW FOR 2006 27 Allthree prices Prices are per person and include nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with British Airways and all air taxes. Flights: British Airways from London Heathrow Transfer: Mehrabad Airport to city centre – 55 minutes (depending on traffic) Private transfer price: £32 per car one-way Departures: Daily Flight duration: 5 hours 55 minutes Business class supplement: £1075 Iranian visa required: see page 49 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:21 Page 28 SOFIA Bulgaria’s capital city has retrieved its historic charm and position as an exotic, less-visited corner of Eastern Europe. Sofia boasts a colourful and ancient collection of churches, mosques and synagogues; the most famous of which is the Alexander Nevski Church, which has magnificent frescoes. Other religious buildings include Boyana Church, Banya Bashi Mosque and the Sofia Synagogue, one of the most beautiful in the world. Sofia’s museums are almost exclusively Bulgarianoriented and are aimed at chronicling the conflicting fortunes of this once great empire. They can provide a fascinating insight into the Balkan Peninsula, and entrance fees are low priced so there’s no excuse not to visit them. Two museums on the must-see list are the National History Museum and National Archaeological Museum. Other sites include the Zhensky Bazaar open-air market, Municipal Baths, Royal Palace, TSUM Department Store and Yuzhen Park. Regent recommends…dinner at Pri Yafata restaurant on Solunska St. With an authentic Bulgarian atmosphere, you can sample such classics as the refreshing Shopska salad, followed by Kavarma, a warming chicken dish served in a clay pot. LION HOTEL HOTEL MARIA LUISA RADISSON SAS GRAND HOTEL A good standard three-star hotel located in the heart of the city, close to Lion Bridge. There are 33 comfortable, modern rooms with air-conditioning. Facililties include a pizza-bar and business centre. This charming four-star property is located in the city centre. There are 20 tastefully decorated rooms with satellite TV and air-conditioning. Facilities include lobby bar, lounge and restaurant. A five-star hotel located in the heart of Sofia across from the Alexander Nevski Cathedral. The 136 rooms are tastefully decorated with TV and air-conditioning. Facilities include a restaurant, Irish pub and health club. LION HOTEL* ALL YEAR ROUND Per Person Single Supplement £330 £63 HOTEL MARIA LUISA* Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £27 £21 Per Person Single Supplement £365 £84 RADISSON SAS GRAND HOTEL Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £40 £28 Per Person Single Supplement £450 £69 Prices are per person and include three nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with British Airways and all air taxes. * These prices are valid for weekend stays only – contact us for mid-week stays Flights: British Airways from London Heathrow Transfer: Sofia Airport to city centre – 15 minutes Private transfer price: £25 per car one-way 28 Departures: Daily Flight duration: 3 hours 15 minutes Business class supplement: £250 No visas required for UK passport holders REGENT HOLIDAYS - TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO BULGARIA SINCE 2003 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £69 £23 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:21 Page 29 PRAGUE It is easy to see why this jewel in the crown of Central European capitals is still a firm favourite for year-round city breaks. In summer the city buzzes with street theatre and open-air cafés; autumn mists give it a romantic haze; in winter the Christmas markets equal any in Germany and the Prague Spring Music Festival dominates May. The city is constantly alive with visitors who come to wonder at medieval architecture, winding streets reminiscent of a Hans Christian Anderson fairy tale, cobbled squares and monuments to a great past. Prague’s artisans specialise in fine filigree silver work, wood carvings, porcelain and Bohemian crystal – all of which can be bought on its most famous landmark, the Charles Bridge. Nearby Wenceslas Square is home to Prague’s most elegant cafés and hotels – perfect for a glass of postshopping Czech beer. Regent recommends…celebrating the 250th anniversary of Mozart’s birth in Prague at one of the 150 concerts, opera performances, exhibitions and music festivals taking place during 2006. For more details check out the website www.mozartprague2006.com. HOTEL CLOISTER INN HOTEL CONSTANS HOTEL HOFFMEISTER A good standard three-star hotel located in the Old Town, not far from the Charles Bridge, on the site of a medieval convent. All 75 rooms are simply furnished and have air-conditioning, satellite TV and safe. A charming four-star hotel located in the Lesser Town, close to Prague Castle. The hotel consists of three buildings and the 31 spacious rooms are tastefully and luxuriously decorated. Facilities include a restaurant and lobby bar. A luxury five-star hotel located at the foot of Castle Hill. This small property with its 30 elegant, spacious rooms and 5 suites has a new wellness spa, an excellent restaurant and pleasant summer terrace. HOTEL CLOISTER INN LOW SEASON 1 Jan - 31 Mar, 1 Nov - 26 Dec MID SEASON 1 Jun - 31 Aug HIGH SEASON 1 Apr - 31 May, 1 Sep - 31 Oct, 27 Dec - 1 Jan 07 Per Person Single Supplement £265 HOTEL CONSTANS Extra nights Per Person Single Supplement £23 £330 £39 £33 £46 £40 Per Person Single Supp £69 £28 £295 £99 £310 £120 HOTEL HOFFMEISTER Extra nights Per Person Single Supplement £34 £350 £55 £38 £46 £40 Per Person Single Supp £102 £50 £345 £114 £310 £120 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £162 £54 £54 £380 £162 £72 £54 £430 £219 £89 £73 Prices are per person and include three nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with Czech Airlines and all air taxes. Flights: Czech Airlines from London Heathrow, Stansted, Birmingham and Manchester. Edinburgh and Glasgow departures available for £20 supplement per person Transfer: Prague Airport to Old Town – 20 minutes Private transfer price: £15 per car one-way Departures: Several daily Flight duration: 1 hours 55 minutes Business class supplement: £280 No visas required for UK passport holders REGENT HOLIDAYS - TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO THE CZECH REPUBLIC SINCE 1983 29 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:21 Page 30 BUDAPEST Budapest may not boast the Gothic buildings of Prague, but it offers many unique examples of Baroque, Neo-Classical and Art Nouveau architecture of the Hungarian ‘Golden Age’. Split by the mighty Danube, the city looks best at sunset. A stroll along the riverbanks is a perfect way to soak up the romantic atmosphere. Budapest is really two cities in one - the romantic ‘Buda’ hillside with its castle and churches and the Pest side full of majestic buildings, museums and theatres. A flourishing of the arts and the re-establishment of fine restaurants and shops all bear witness to Budapest’s reemergence as a city of culture and style. Hungarian wines are no longer viewed as inferior to their European relatives, nor their spas grim sanatoriums. Come and discover a city with not only a rich past but also a flourishing future. Regent recommends…taking time out to indulge in a visit to the opulent surroundings of Gerbeaud's Coffee House, situated on Vörösmarty Square at the end of Budapest's main shopping street, Vaci Utca. With over 100 cakes and chocolates made to traditional recipes you will be spoilt for choice! HOTEL FIESTA MERCURE BUDAPEST NEMZETI CORINTHIA GRAND HOTEL ROYAL A superior three-star renovated hotel located in the historic centre of Pest, close to shops and many historical sites. There are 112 modern rooms with air-conditioning, and satellite TV. Facilities include fitness centre, bar and cellar restaurant. A very popular four-star Art Nouveaustyle hotel, close to Pest’s shopping area and public transport. All 76 rooms have mini-bar and satellite TV. Facilities include restaurant and café-bar. A luxurious five-star hotel located in the heart of Budapest, on Erzsebet Boulevard. All 414 rooms are of a superior standard, equipped with satellite TV, safe, mini-bar and air-conditioning. Facilities include a variety of restaurants and café-bars. HOTEL FIESTA LOW SEASON 1 Jan - 31 Mar, 1 Nov - 30 Dec MID SEASON 1 Apr - 30 Apr, 1 Jul - 31 Jul HIGH SEASON 1 May - 30 Jun, 1 Aug - 31 Oct Twin Share Single Supplement £199 MERCURE BUDAPEST NEMZETI Extra nights Twin Share Single Supplement £13 £210 £38 £24 £42 £25 Per Person Single Supp £39 £26 £235 £72 £245 £75 Extra nights CORINTHIA GRAND HOTEL ROYAL Twin Share Single Supplement £19 £310 £40 £25 £49 £29 Per Person Single Supp £57 £29 £250 £75 £265 £87 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £141 £65 £43 £325 £153 £70 £51 £350 £180 £79 £60 Prices are per person and include three nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with British Airways and all air taxes. Flights: British Airways from London Heathrow and Gatwick Transfer: Budapest Airport to city centre – 20 minutes Private transfer price: £33 per car one-way 30 E Departures: Thrice daily from Heathrow and daily except FRE ES A Monday and Wednesday from Gatwick LUD INC T W O Flight duration: 2 hours 30 minutes N PES UDA Business class supplement: £250 TO B IDE U G Y No visas required for UK passport holders CIT REGENT HOLIDAYS - TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO HUNGARY SINCE 1983 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:21 Page 31 CHISINAU Chisinau is often referred to as ‘Small Rome’ as it lies over seven hills. However, the similarity ends there. Treelined boulevards and numerous parks make Chisinau feel more like a sleepy provincial capital than the Eternal City. There are plenty of excellent restaurants, all offering varieties of Moldova’s national treasure – its wine. Moldova was known as the vineyard of the former Soviet Union and, given the quality of Moldovan wine, it is easy to see why. Tours are available of the cavernous Cricova wine cellars. If your waistline demands an escape from fine dining, step back in time to the Soviet Union with a day trip to the self-proclaimed republic of Transdniestr. Lenin statues and socialist banners are evident on every main street. Close to Chisinau lies the spectacular Orheiul Vechi cave monsatery. Orthodox monks carved out the monastery in the 13th century and today a handful of monks are slowly restoring the caves. Regent recommends…wine tasting at Purcari Manor, located on the west banks of the Dniester River. Newly opened to the public you can now sample Merlot, Cabernet-Sauvignon, Rara Neagra and Pinot Noir varieties whilst enjoying a traditional lunch. HOTEL NATIONAL HOTEL LUNA DEDEMAN GRAND CHISINAU HOTEL This large Soviet-style three-star hotel is located in the city centre near the Cathedral and Historical Museum. There are over 300 rooms and standard rooms are basic with old styled furniture. Facilities include restaurant, bars and casino. This small, friendly three-star hotel opened in 2003 and is located in the city centre. It has 19 well-proportioned rooms with modern furniture, airconditioning and satellite TV. Facilities include a good restaurant and bar. A four-star hotel located in the city centre with 143 luxury rooms including 6 deluxe suites, 1 presidential suite and 8 apartments with kitchenette. Facilities include a restaurant, lobby bistro and the Irish Pub ‘Aptys’ as well as a bowling hall, fitness centre and sauna. HOTEL NATIONAL ALL YEAR ROUND Per Person Single Supplement £445 £45 DEDEMAN GRAND CHISINAU HOTEL HOTEL LUNA Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £24 £15 Per Person Single Supplement £485 £39 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £24 £22 Per Person Single Supplement £525 £108 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £54 £36 All accommodation prices are per with breakfast, return flights with Malev Hungarian Airlines and all air taxes. Prices are per person and include three nights Flights: Malev Hungarian Airlines from London Heathrow Transfer: Chisinau Airport to city centre – 20 minutes Private transfer price: £25 per car one-way Departures: Daily Flight duration: 6 hours 5 minutes via Budapest Business class supplement: £520 Moldovan visa on arrival: see page 49 REGENT HOLIDAYS - TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO MOLDOVA SINCE 2000 31 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd GDANSK 10/1/06 12:21 Page 32 NEW Gdansk has been Europe’s crossroads for century upon century. Its extraordinary heritage, as a rich Hanseatic town, is in part due to the tide of immigrants, sailors, travellers and German burghers who came to the city or passed through. These cosmopolitan influences are evident in the soaring height of St Mary’s Church and the strong designs of burgher townhouses. As the city discovers its prosperous and sophisticated past, one can admire a huge diversity of local styles. Walking from the Golden Gate, the traditional entry point for kings along the Royal Way, it doesn’t take long to become absorbed into the warmth and friendliness of this city. Gdansk may be smaller than Warsaw and Krakow, but remains the perfect choice for a more relaxing weekend break. Regent recommends…trying goldwasser also known as Gdańska Zlotówka: Gdansk’s Gold which is sweet, syrupy liquor speckled with sparkling flakes of 22-carat gold. DOM MUZYKA HOTEL HOTEL KROLEWSKI HOTEL HANZA This three-star hotel, which opened in 2003, is located less than one mile from the city centre near the Music Academy. It has 87 modern, basic rooms with attractive wooden floors and air-conditioning. Facilities include a restaurant. This is a small three-star hotel located in the Old Town, near the Motlawa River and Polish Balic Philharmony. Housed in an historic building, there are 30 spacious, modern rooms. Facilities include a restaurant. A modern, stylish four-star hotel located in the Old Town. It has 60 contemporary rooms overlooking either the Motlawa River or the Old Town. Facilities include a restaurant, bar and fitness club. DOM MUZYKA HOTEL LOW SEASON 1 Jan - 31 May, 1 Sep - 31 Dec HIGH SEASON 1 Jun - 31 Aug Per Person Single Supplement £265 £275 HOTEL KROLEWSKI Extra nights Per Person Single Supplement £13 £280 £14 £295 Per Person Single Supp £39 £32 £42 £34 HOTEL HANZA Extra nights Per Person Single Supplement £26 £350 £29 £365 Per Person Single Supp £78 £39 £87 £43 Per Person Single Supp £135 £54 £45 £156 £62 £52 Prices are per person and include three nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with LOT Polish Airlines and all air taxes. Flights: LOT Polish Airlines from London Heathrow Departures also possible from Manchester direct at supplement of £64 per person Transfer: Gdansk Airport to Old Town – 20 minutes Private transfer price: £30 per car one-way 32 REGENT HOLIDAYS - NEW FOR 2006 Departures: Several daily Flight duration: 4 hours 39 minutes via Warsaw Business class supplement: £495 No visas required for UK passport holders Extra nights REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:21 Page 33 KRAKOW Krakow is one of Europe’s hot new destinations. As the cultural capital of Poland, the city never suffers a shortage of exhibitions, art, concerts and theatrical performances. From buskers and street artists in the main square to opera in the concert halls, it is impossible to avoid immersing yourself in a host of musical and theatrical delights. Market Square is the largest medieval square in Europe and is the focal point of festivals and cultural events. Although the Old Town has many restaurants, locals like to keep quiet about the best, so be prepared to hunt them out. Along the old cobbled streets leading to Market Square, you will find new boutiques alongside traditional craft and clothing shops. Any visit to Krakow should include Wawel Royal Cathedral and, of course, an evening at the Philharmonic. Regent recommends…a visit to the Czartoryski Musuem, which houses Leonardo da Vinci’s Lady with an Ermine. As only five other cities in the world can boast a painting by da Vinci, if you are visiting Krakow this is a must-see! HOTEL LOGOS An excellent modern threestar hotel located not far from from the Old Town. All 49 rooms have satellite TV and minibar. Facilities include a steam/sauna room, bar and restaurant. RADISSON SAS HOTEL KRAKOW HOTEL SHERATON A good four-star hotel located in the centre opposite the Krakow Philharmonic. The hotel offers 196 comfortable rooms equipped with either one king size bed or two twin beds, TV, mini-bar, and air-conditioning. Facilities include two restaurants and fitness centre. This is Krakow’s first and only international five-star hotel which opened in 2004. Located close to the Old Town, this modern hotel has 352 rooms all with air-conditioning, satellite TV and many other amenities. Facilities include restaurants, bars and health centre with swimming pool. HOTEL LOGOS LOW SEASON 1 Jan - 31 Mar, 1 Nov - 31 Dec HIGH SEASON 1 Apr - 31 Oct Per Person Single Supplement £230 £250 RADISSON SAS KRAKOW Extra nights Per Person Single Supplement £10 £295 £16 £320 Per Person Single Supp £30 £26 £48 £33 HOTEL SHERATON Extra nights Per Person Single Supplement £33 £310 £43 £350 Per Person Single Supp £99 £52 £129 £59 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £114 £55 £38 £147 £66 £49 Prices are per person and include three nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with British Airways and all air taxes. Flights: British Airways from London Gatwick Transfer: John Paul II Balice International Airport to Old Town– 20 minutes Private transfer price: £25 per car one-way Departures: Daily Flight duration: 2 hours 30 minutes Business class supplement: N/A No visas required for UK passport holders REGENT HOLIDAYS - TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO POLAND SINCE 1996 33 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:21 Page 34 WARSAW Founded over 800 years ago, Warsaw became a leading royal capital and by the 18th century, one of Eastern Europe's most important centres. The fortunes of the city changed dramatically during the Second World War, when it was heavily bombed. The Old Town is now almost brand new, although meticulous and sensitive restoration has recreated much of its medieval charm. Today, the overriding impression is of a thriving capital surrounding a revived Old Town. Like other old European capitals, Warsaw is a city of elegant boutiques, excellent cafés and world-class museums. Poles and foreign visitors alike find plenty to keep themselves occupied. Any visit should include the Royal Castle, housing some of Eastern Europe’s finest art, the magnificent Cathedral of St John and Wilanów Palace. Regent recommends…visiting Konstytucji Square for its wonderful example of socialist realist architecture. This square was envisioned to be an ‘expression of creative optimism and peaceful work within the socialist system.' GRAND HOTEL ORBIS HOTEL RADISSON SAS CENTRUM LE ROYAL MERIDIAN BRISTOL This three-star hotel is centrally located not far from the Old Town. There are 314 simple decorated single and double rooms. Facilities include a restaurant, cocktail bar and casino. This four-star plus hotel is located in the centre of Warsaw, not far from Warsaw Central Station. There are 311 rooms designed in Italian, Scandinavian or Maritime styles. Facilities include restaurant, bar and health and fitness centre. A luxurious five-star hotel situated on King’s Walk near the Old Town. All 206 rooms are elegantly decorated with air-conditioning. Facilities include Michelin starred Malinowa restaurant, café-bar, indoor swimming pool, gym and sauna. HOTEL RADISSON SAS CENTRUM GRAND HOTEL ORBIS ALL YEAR ROUND Per Person Single Supplement £240 £63 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £28 £21 Per Person Single Supplement £295 £90 LE ROYAL MERIDIAN BRISTOL* Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £42 £30 Per Person Single Supplement £395 £93 Prices are per person and include three nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with LOT Polish Airlines and all air taxes. * These prices are valid for weekend stays only – contact us for mid-week stays Flights: LOT Polish Airlines from London Heathrow Departures also possible from Manchester direct at supplement of £64 per person Transfer: Warsaw Airport to Old Town – 20 minutes Private transfer price: £15 per car one-way 34 Departures: Several daily Flight duration: 2 hours 30 minutes Business class supplement: £495 No visas required for UK passport holders REGENT HOLIDAYS - TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO POLAND SINCE 1996 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £72 £59 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:21 Page 35 BUCHAREST Not many capitals like Bucharest can boast roots that stretch back to the Neolithic period (said to derive from the name of a shepherd Bucur). The city has grown and prospered over the centuries thanks to its favourable position on the banks of the Dambovita River, surrounded by a fertile plain and on the important trade routes between East and West. The various civilisations that have passed through Bucharest have all left their mark on the architecture and culture and have given rise to its reputation as the ‘Gate of the Orient’, and later in the 19th century as a ‘Little Paris’. Today, Bucharest is still a mysterious and romantic city of paradoxes. In spite of the grim years of communism, the city succeeded in retaining its legacy of art, music and learning. The gypsies, who settled here on their long journey from the East, brought with them their own peculiar style of music, dance and language. Most restaurants still have a resident gypsy band to transport you back to a more romantic era. Regent recommends…visiting our favourite museum Muzeul Taranului Roman (Peasant Museum). First-rate exhibits depict the diversity and history of life around the country over the past few centuries. Leave some time for the Communist Iconography Museum, a compact but fascinating cellar room within the Peasant Museum, which features a collection of communist-era busts, paintings and nostalgic memorabilia. HOTEL ELIZEU HOTEL CENTRAL HOTEL LIDO A good quality three-star hotel, located 200 metres from the North Railway Station. It has 55 spacious, basic rooms with air-conditioning. There is a restaurant, breakfast room, summer terrace and bar. A three-star hotel located in the city centre, not far from the City Hall. There are 61 modern refurbished rooms with air-conditioning, TV and mini-bar. There is a bar at the hotel but no restaurant. A four-star hotel located in the city centre, close to shops, business centre, museums and entertainment facilities. Rooms have air-conditioning and are elegantly decorated. Facilities include a restaurant and health club. HOTEL ELIZEU ALL YEAR ROUND Per Person Single Supplement £315 £42 HOTEL CENTRAL* Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £35 £14 Per Person Single Supplement £350 £81 HOTEL LIDO* Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £39 £27 Per Person Single Supplement £375 £99 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £49 £33 Prices are per person and include three nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with British Airways and all air taxes.. * These prices are valid for weekend stays only – contact us for mid-week stays Flights: British Airways from London Heathrow Transfer: Bucharest Airport to city centre – 30 minutes Private transfer price: £22 per car one-way Departure: Daily Flight duration: 3 hours 15 minutes Business class supplement: £250 No visas required for UK passport holders REGENT HOLIDAYS - TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO ROMANIA SINCE 2002 35 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:21 Page 36 BRATISLAVA British tourists who liked Prague in the 80’s and Riga in the 90’s should now be discovering Bratislava. The Old Town boasts an array of Gothic, Baroque and Jugendstil buildings. Cars are kept well away from the town centre so pedestrians are in complete control. Bratislava’s new role as the capital of Slovakia ensures a yearround cultural programme in music and art of consistently high standards. Start a visit at the Castle and look down on the Old Town before exploring its streets. Relax in Main Square and then visit St Martins’ Cathedral and Michael’s Gate. Do not miss the Clock Museum or the Technical Museum, which shows the history of Skoda cars. Make sure you return to Main Square in the evening for the daily laser beam show. Regent recommends…taking a day trip to the Low Carpathians situated just half an hour from the city. Visit the numerous wine cellars and try the famous wines of the region before heading to the castle of Cerveny Kamen (red stone), built on a steep rock overlooking the village of Casta. BOTEL FAIRWAY HOTEL DEVIN RADISSON SAS CARLTON HOTEL A three-star boat-hotel moored on the Danube River – the Fairway is on the outskirts of the heart of the Old Town. The 28 cabins have twin beds, TV and en-suite shower room. Facilities include restaurant and sun lounge. A large four-star hotel located on the banks of the Danube in the centre of Bratislava. Rooms are elegantly decorated with air-conditioning. Facilities include a French restaurant, coffee shop, café bar and a small health club with a pool. Situated in a beautiful historic 18thcentury building located in the heart of the Old Town. Facilities at this international five-star hotel include health club, coffee shop and restaurant. BOTEL FAIRWAY ALL YEAR ROUND Per Person Single Supplement £255 £45 RADISSON SAS CARLTON HOTEL* HOTEL DEVIN* Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £26 £15 Per Person Single Supplement £305 £99 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £60 £33 Per Person Single Supplement £310 £108 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £83 £36 Prices are per person and include three nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with SkyEurope and all air taxes. * These prices are valid for weekend stays only – contact us for mid-week stays. Flights: SkyEurope from London Stansted and Manchester Transfer: Bratislava Airport to Old Town – 15 minutes Private transfer price: £10 per person one-way 36 Departures: Daily from Stansted and Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays from Manchester Flight duration: 2 hours 30 minutes No visas required for UK passport holders REGENT HOLIDAYS - TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO SLOVAKIA SINCE 2002 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:21 Page 37 NEW SHANGHAI Glitz, glamour and bright lights are not our usual expectations of China, but over the last decade Shanghai has become a boomtown of the East. Shiny glass and chrome towers have sprung from former wasteland and traffic zips by above your head on freshly constructed fly-overs. The newly partially pedestrianised Nanjing Road will satisfy the most ardent shop-a-holic. To see how strong the British power was during the colonial era, walk along the Bund beside the Peace Hotel, the Banks and the former British Consulate, all massive granite structures built to last forever. To delve further back in time, turn your eyes away from the modern skyscrapers and while away time watching traffic meander down the Hung Po River, just as it did in ancient times. West certainly meets East here, as an explosion of modern design and technology fuses with ancient Chinese customs. Regent recommends…waking early and watching the ˆ silent agile movements of the Shanghainese as they practise the ancient art of Tai Chi. Then head over to the Yu Garden Bazaar for a typical breakfast of steamed dumplings – try the delicious Nanxiang dumplings stuffed with pork and dipped into vinegar and ginger. JIULONG HOTEL PEACE HOTEL JIN JIANG TOWER HOTEL This standard three-star hotel is centrally located in the Hongkou district. The 25 floor property has 380 various types of rooms, which are spacious and bright. All rooms have airconditioning and satellite TV. Facilities include restaurant, bar, fitness centre and shopping arcade. Built in the 1920s – this historic four-star hotel is a Shanghai landmark and is located on the corner of Nanjing Road and the waterfront. The hotel has over 380 rooms which are slightly dated. Facilities include 3 restaurants, café and that famous jazz bar. This five-star hotel is located in the heart of the old French quarter and commercial district. There are over 700 elegantly decorated rooms and facilities include a swimming pool, fitness centre and sauna. There is a good choice of restaurants, bars and cafés and the views from the revolving restaurant on the 43rd floor are impressive. JIULONG HOTEL ALL YEAR ROUND Per Person Twin Share Single Supplement £599 £60 PEACE HOTEL Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £25 £20 Per Person Twin Share Single Supplement £695 £117 JIN JIANG TOWER HOTEL Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £39 £39 Per Person Twin Share Single Supplement £725 £147 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £49 £49 Prices are per person and include four nights accommodation with breakfast, flights with China Eastern and all air taxes. Flights: China Eastern Airlines from London Heathrow Transfer: Shanghai Pudong Airport to city centre – 50 minutes Private transfer price: £75 per car one-way Departures: Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays Flight duration: 11 hours 50 minutes Business class supplement: N/A Chinese visa required: see page 49 REGENT HOLIDAYS - NEW FOR 2006 37 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:21 Page 38 EKATERINBURG Ekaterinburg, on the Iset River, is the historical and economic centre of the Urals which forms a natural border between Europe and Asia. Ekaterinburg (Yekaterinburg) was founded in 1723 by Tsar Peter the Great and named after his wife, Catherine. The city witnessed the death of monarchy in Russia, as it was here that the last Russian Tsar Nicolas II, with his family were assassinated by the Bolsheviks on 16th July 1918 in Ipatiev’s House. The city is associated with another famous political figure, Boris Yeltsin, who was born in the village of Butka not far from Ekaterinburg. Under Yeltsin’s orders, the house where the Tsar and his family were killed was destroyed; a wooden cross and a chapel were erected later. This place has been recognised by the Russian Orthodox Church as sacred and the ‘Cathedral-on-theBlood’ was constructed where the Ipatiev house once stood. Other sights in this attractive Russian city are some fascinating museums and the attractive Opera House. There are also plenty of excellent Russian restaurants and café-bars to keep you occupied at night. Regent recommends…a day tour to the Romanov’s Monastery and the Obelisk ‘Europe and Asia’. Firstly, you will visit the Monastery dedicated to the Tsar and his family, located on the spot where the Bolsheviks tried to hide their corpses in a secret grave, afterwards you will also travel west to the borderline that marks the end of Europe and the beginning of Asia. HOME-STAY APARTMENT STAYS ATRIUM PALACE HOTEL Our family stays provide a separate room with a bed, linen and meals (according to your request). You share the bathroom and kitchen with the family. Our family stays are located not far from the city centre. We have a range of good value and centrally located apartments. The apartments include kitchen with all cooking facilities, bathroom with clean towels, bedding, a TV and phone. Apartment 1 (pictured here) is a 2 bedroom apartment not far from Red Army Square. A five-star hotel, the highest quality hotel in Ekaterinburg, is located in the city centre. A modern, newly -opened hotel with 131 rooms, each with airconditioning and satellite TV. Facilities include a health centre, sauna, restaurant and café bar. HOME-STAY LOW SEASON 1 Jan - 16 Jun, 1 Sep - 15 Dec HIGH SEASON 17 Jun - 31 Aug, 16 – 31 Dec Per Person Single Supplement £590 £650 APARTMENT STAYS Extra nights Per Person Single Supplement £4 £620 £4 £680 Per Person Single Supp £16 £15 £16 £15 ATRIUM PALACE HOTEL Extra nights Per Person Single Supplement £21 £835 £21 £895 Per Person Single Supp £84 £21 £84 £21 Single Supp £196 £99 £49 £196 £99 £49 Prices are per person and include four nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with British Airways and all air taxes. Flights: British Airways from London Heathrow Transfer: Koltsova International Airport to city centre – 25 minutes Private transfer price: £30 per car one-way 38 Departures: Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays Flight duration: 5 hours 35 minutes Business class supplement: £990 Russian visa required: see page 49 REGENT HOLIDAYS - TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO RUSSIA SINCE 1980 Extra nights Per Person REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:21 Page 39 KALININGRAD Once a wealthy German port and university town called Königsberg, Kaliningrad changed beyond recognition under Soviet control. The enclave is separated from mother Russia by hundreds of miles of Lithuanian and Belarussian soil. Tourism is slowly developing, as people come to see this fascinating place struggling to survive under capitalism. Amid the austere Soviet architecture, there are still suggestions of a more creative German past. Picturesque Königsberg buildings, such as the cathedral, become even more appealing amid a sea of monotonous concrete. Whilst the region’s Baltic cousins have embraced modern European culture with a vengeance, this unique enclave appears hesitant to sever links with its Soviet past. Regent recommends…for a great Russian dining experience, try ‘Podvorie’ on Leninsky 16. Decked out like summer dacha – the menu has a huge variety of authentic Russian dishes. There are over 15 varieties of blini to choose from as well as the ubiquitous pelmeni and vareniki. HOTEL ALBERTINA DONA HOTEL CHEREPAKHA HOTEL This is a small, friendly three-star hotel located in the historical, green part of the city, on tram route no. 8. There are 10 spacious rooms, some with balconies. The hotel also has a restaurant and a sauna with a small plunge pool. A good standard small three-star hotel located in city centre, not far from Vasilevsky square– the hotel has 24 modern nicely decorated rooms. Facilities include restaurant ‘Dolce Vita’, café and bar. This boutique-style hotel is located in a green quiet area of the city, not far from Kaliningrad zoo. There are 11 classically decorated rooms with satellite TV and mini-bar. Facilities include a café and sauna. HOTEL ALBERTINA ALL YEAR ROUND Per Person Single Supplement £345 £30 DONA HOTEL Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £19 £10 Per Person Single Supplement £450 £60 CHEREPAKHA HOTEL Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £35 £20 Per Person Single Supplement £460 £81 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £37 £27 Prices are per person and include three nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with LOT Polish airlines and all air taxes. Flights: LOT Polish Airlines from London Heathrow and Manchester Transfer: Kaliningrad Airport to city centre – 20 minutes Private transfer price: £28 per car one-way Departures: Daily Flight duration: 5 hours 15 minutes via Warsaw Business class supplement £520 Russian visa required: see page 49 REGENT HOLIDAYS - TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO RUSSIA SINCE 1980 39 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:21 Page 40 MOSCOW HOTEL GAMMA DELTA IZMAILOVA This large Soviet-style three-star hotel is located near the Moscow Flea Market and Izmailova Park Metro, which takes around 25 minutes to reach the centre of Moscow. The rooms are basic but acceptable and facilities include 3 restaurants, bars and nightclub. HOTEL KATERINA-CITY* A stylish four-star hotel located in the centre, 3 km away from Red Square near Paveletskaya metro station. There are 2 connecting buildings with a total of 166 modern Scandinavian style rooms which are on the small side. Facilities include restaurant, 2 bars and a fitness club. HOTEL GAMMA DELTA IZMAILOVA ALL YEAR ROUND Per Person Single Supplement £360 £69 GOLDEN RING HOTEL This large five-star hotel is located in the city centre opposite the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and not far from Red Square. The hotel has 293 elegantly decorated rooms of various categories. Facilities include 4 restaurants, a lobbybar and a health and beauty centre. HOTEL KATERINA-CITY* Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £23 £23 Per Person Single Supplement £540 £60 GOLDEN RING HOTEL Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £105 £20 Per Person Single Supplement £670 £270 Prices are per person and include three nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with British Airways and all air taxes. * These prices are valid for weekend stays only – contact us for mid-week stays 40 REGENT HOLIDAYS - TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO RUSSIA SINCE 1980 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £125 £90 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:21 Page 41 MOSCOW Forget the forbidding stereotypes, Moscow is buzzing with renewal and restoration. The golden Kremlin domes continue to glitter but GUM no longer houses a gloomy collection of shoddy goods, but a vast array of designer boutiques. Since its foundation, Moscow has suffered at the hands of invading hoards, devastating fires and stifling regimes, but has always succeeded in re-creating itself. The exhibits in the Armoury bear witness to Russia’s desire for culture and refinement. Old Arbat has reverted to its Bohemian ambience and Sparrow Hills (formerly Lenin Hills) still offer the best city panorama. A weekend is scarcely long enough to scratch the surface of Moscow’s treasures. Do not miss the opportunity to visit the Bolshoi Theatre, if only to sink into its plush velvet seats and gaze up at ornate chandeliers and an amazing stage fire curtain covered with golden embroidered hammer and sickle motifs. HOTEL UKRAINA A standard Soviet three-star hotel located on the banks of the Moskva River and opposite the White House, Russia’s Parliament. Rooms are spacious but basic. Facilities include restaurants and bars. HOTEL SRETENSKAYA A four-star business hotel situated in the heart of the old city. The Sretenskaya was constructed in the 17th century. Now completely renovated but retaining many of its original features. Facilities include a small health club and café-bar. HOTEL UKRAINA LOW SEASON 1 Jan - 31 Jan, 1 Nov - 31 Dec HIGH SEASON 1 Feb - 31 Oct Regent recommends…a musical experience at the Alfred Mirek Russian Harmonica Museum, the first museum devoted to one of the most popular instruments in Russia. Unique collection of European accordions donated to the city by art historian Alfred Mirek; photos, posters, documents. The museum is located at 18 Ul. 2nd TverskayaYamskaya and the nearest metro station is Mayakovskaya. Per Person Single Supplement £425 £450 LE ROYAL MERIDIEN NATIONAL An historical hotel built in 1903 located opposite the Kremlin. A member of the Leading Hotels of the World it has 221 fully equipped rooms. Its facilities include a health centre, bar and wellknown restaurant Moskovsky serving excellent, traditional Russian food. LE ROYAL MERIDIEN NATIONAL HOTEL SRETENSKAYA Extra nights Per Person Single Supplement £33 £520 £42 £535 Per Person Single Supp £99 £42 £126 £50 Extra nights Per Person Single Supplement £58 £599 £65 £699 Per Person Single Supp £174 £75 £195 £85 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £117 £99 £39 £168 £134 £56 Prices are per person and include three nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with British Airways and all air taxes. SIGHTSEEING TOURS All tours quoted are for minimum two persons and include transfers with private car and English speaking guide. MOSCOW CITY TOUR (3 HOURS) An opportunity to get to know the history of the city and visit the main places of interest – Red Square, the Moscow State University, the Bolshoi Theatre, the Triumphal Arch. Drive along the main Moscow streets Tverskaya, Novy Arbat Avenue, Kutuzovsky Avenue, Sadovoje and Bulvarnoje Rings. £35 per person. NOVODEVICHY CONVENT (3 HOURS) One of the most famous historical places of interest in Moscow dating from 16 -18th century. Novodevichy is still a functioning convent, which belongs to the Russian Orthodox Church. On its territory one can see beautiful monuments, such as the Bell Tower, which was built in 1690 and Smolensky Cathedral (Cathedral of the Holy Virgin of Smolensk), decorated with frescoes depicting episodes from Russian history. £30 per person. Flights: British Airways from London Heathrow Transfer: Moscow Domodedevo Airport to city centre – 40 minutes Private transfer price: £35 per car each way SERGIEV POSAD (7 HOURS) One of the most ancient Russian towns, founded near the walls of an ancient monastery. The monastery is one of the major orthodox centres in Russia. The ecclesiastical seminary and the academy are also situated here. £50 per person. Departures: Twice daily Flight duration: 3 hours 45 minutes Business class supplement: £460 Russian visa required – see page 49 REGENT HOLIDAYS - TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO RUSSIA SINCE 1980 41 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:21 Page 42 ST PETERSBURG HOTEL DOSTOEVSKY GUYOT HOTEL CORINTHIA NEVSKIJ PALACE HOTEL One of our most popular hotels in St Petersburg - this is a very good three-star hotel, which takes up the top three floors of the Vladimirsky Passazh shopping centre located in the centre of St Petersburg. There are 207 simply furnished rooms and facilities include a restaurant, bar and fitness centre. This newly-opened four-star hotel is centrally located in the Petrograd district of St Petersburg. There are 48 spacious rooms decorated in warm pastel colours. Facilities include a restaurant and health centre including a Russian steam bath. This large centrally located five-star hotel is located on Nevsky Prospect. There are 282 rooms and the standard rooms are elegantly modern and spacious with air-conditioning. Facilities include 4 fine restaurants, café-bar and health club. HOTEL DOSTOEVSKY LOW SEASON 1 Jan - 31 Mar, 1 Nov - 31 Dec MID SEASON 1 Apr - 30 Apr, 1 Aug - 31 Oct HIGH SEASON 1 May - 31 Jul Per Person Single Supplement £405 CORINTHIA NEVSKIJ PALACE HOTEL HOTEL GUYOT Extra nights Per Person Single Supplement £21 £415 £50 £40 £67 £49 Per Person Single Supp £63 £38 £445 £120 £495 £147 Extra nights Per Person Single Supplement £27 £550 £51 £30 £85 £31 Per Person Single Supp £81 £39 £450 £90 £490 £93 Per Person Single Supp £147 £81 £49 £599 £207 £99 £69 £795 £390 £165 £130 All prices are per person and include three nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with British Airways and all air taxes. 42 REGENT HOLIDAYS - TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO RUSSIA SINCE 1980 Extra nights REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:21 Page 43 ST PETERSBURG A magical city of palaces, pastel painted buildings, sparkling waterways and an abundance of art treasures. This is definitely a city which will not disappoint at any time of year. Thanks to astonishing vision, St. Petersburg grew out of a swamp to become one of the most stylish and beautiful cities in the world. ‘Venice of the North’ is a very fitting title for a city criss-crossed by canals, boarded by elegant buildings and crossed by hundreds of individually crafted bridges. The whole ensemble is particularly attractive under a layer of snow, sparkling in the winter sun, or spectacular with the never ending days of early summer. Regent recommends…one of our favourite ways to spend time in St Petersburg; visit the Hermitage, followed by a long lunch at the Astoria Davidov and their weekend “Russian Table”! A buffet of traditional Russian zakuski with a shot of vodka and glass of champagne! HOTEL NEVSKY 22 HOTEL PETRO PALACE HOTEL ASTORIA This basic hotel is centrally located around 500 metres from the Hermitage. Despite the shabby entrance there are 63 pleasant rooms over 6 floors. The rooms are small, modern and have satellite TV. Facilities include a sauna and small kitchen-café. A newly opened four-star hotel located in the city centre some 50 metres from St Isaac’s Cathedral. There are 193 rooms in total which are tastefully decorated and have air-conditioning. Facilities include a restaurant, several bars, sauna and swimming pool (free for guests between certain hours). Since 1912 the luxurious five-star Astoria has been synonymous with comfort and style. Located in the heart of the city opposite St Isaac’s Cathedral and the Hermitage. Rooms are elegant with modern elements. Facilities include an excellent Russian restaurant ‘Davidov’. HOTEL NEVSKY 22 LOW SEASON 1 Jan - 31 Mar, 1 Nov - 31 Dec MID SEASON 1 Apr - 30 Apr, 1 Aug - 31 Oct HIGH SEASON 1 May - 31 Jul Per Person Single Supplement £475 HOTEL PETRO PALACE Extra nights Per Person Single Supplement £46 £415 £65 £46 £70 £46 Per Person Single Supp £138 £60 £485 £138 £495 £138 HOTEL ASTORIA Extra nights Per Person Single Supplement £36 £590 £60 £47 £85 £66 Per Person Single Supp £108 £41 £475 £141 £550 £198 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £120 £99 £40 £650 £150 £120 £50 £790 £255 £160 £85 All prices are per person and include three nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with British Airways and all air taxes. SIGHTSEEING TOURS All tours quoted are for minimum two persons and include transfers with private car and English speaking guide. ST PETERSBURG CITY TOUR (3 HOURS) A chance to see the most beautiful architectural examples of the 18-20th centuries. Learn about the history of the construction of St Petersburg by visiting Nevsky Prospect, the Admiralty, the Summer Garden, the buildings of Marinsky Theatre and transformer bridges across the Neva River. £35 per person. PETER AND PAUL FORTRESS (3 HOURS) Founded in 1703 to defend St Petersburg against enemy raids. From the middle of 18th-century it contained Russia’s Political Prisoners. This complex includes the Peter and Paul Cathedral, designed by Trezzini, which is the city’s tallest building, the original house of Peter the Great, the founder of the Russian Navy, which houses an exact copy of his model ship, the Royal Mint and other buildings. £35 per person. Flights: British Airways from London Heathrow Transfer: Pulkovo Airport to city centre – 45 minutes Private transfer price: £30 per car each way YUSOPOV PALACE (3 HOURS) A mansion of the St Petersburg nobility created by talented 18th and 19th century architects, sculptors and artists from Russia and abroad. The palace offers guided tours, concerts and other cultural programmes as well as a reconstruction of the cellar where Yusopov and his companions tried to murder Rasputin. £50 per person. Departures: Daily Flight duration: 3 hours 25 minutes Business class supplement: £390 Russian visa required – see page 49 REGENT HOLIDAYS - TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO RUSSIA SINCE 1980 43 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:21 Page 44 ISTANBUL Besides world famous buildings such as the Blue Mosque, the Topkapi Palace and the Hagia Sofia, Istanbul boasts numerous museums and treasures. Lively fish restaurants nestle beside the equally busy Bosphorus, with its constant passage of every type of ship and boat imaginable. If shopping is what you really enjoy, look no further. Visit the ancient and modern covered markets manned by salesfolk displaying a flair and charm that is their national gift. Using Istanbul as a base, visitors can visit the Prince’s Island in the Sea of Marmara by ferryboat or hydrofoil, en route to the golden beaches of Sile. Take a trip to the arboretum at Yalova to ancient Troy or to Gallipolli. Alternatively, relax and watch the world bustle by from a chai kahane, sipping Turkish coffee. Regent recommends…sampling the real flavour of Istanbul by visiting the Egyptian Spice Bazaar and then embarking on a boat to cruise along the Bosphorus. Here, to get the best out of the experience, head to one of the fantastic fish restaurants...You'll taste the freshest fish in town! HOTEL SUDE KONAK YUSUFPASHA KONAGI HOTEL GERMIR PALAS A good three-star hotel located in the Sultanhmet Area, close to the Blue Mosque, Haghia Sophia and Topkapi Palace. There are 25 modern rooms each with air-conditioning, mini-bar and TV. The hotel also has a restaurant, terrace café and bar. A small three-star plus hotel located not far from the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. There are 20 simply furnished decorated rooms with airconditioning and satellite TV. Facilities include terrace café restaurant. A four-star boutique hotel located in the heart of modern Istanbul on Taksil Square, not far from the Istiklal pedestrian precinct. There are 50 elegantly decorated rooms with air-conditioning. Facilities include restaurant, lobby lounge, rooftop terrace and café-bar. HOTEL SUDE KONAK ALL YEAR ROUND Per Person Single Supplement £320 £45 YUSUFPASHA KONAGI Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £20 £15 Per Person Single Supplement £345 £39 HOTEL GERMIR PALAS Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £28 £13 Per Person Single Supplement £375 £81 Prices are per person and include three nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with British Airways and all air taxes. Flights: British Airways from London Heathrow Transfer: Istanbul Airport to city centre – 35 minutes Private transfer price: £25 per car one-way 44 Departures: Twice daily Flight duration: 3 hours 45 minutes Business class supplement: £290 Turkish visa on arrival: see page 49 REGENT HOLIDAYS - TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO TURKEY SINCE 1985 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £36 £27 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:21 Page 45 KYIV Kyiv sits proudly on the mighty Dnipro and is a city with much to offer in terms of history, architecture and entertainment. Stroll along the wide tree-lined boulevards of Kreshchatyk and Volodymyrska, light candles in the glittering, gold-domed Mykhaylivsky Orthodox Church, or relax in one of Kyiv’s many pavement cafés over a delicious local beer. At weekends wander down the steeply cobbled slopes of Andriyivsky Uzviz, where market stalls sell all varieties of souvenirs and paintings. Here you can haggle over traditional Ukrainian dolls and Soviet kitsch. One of Kyiv’s highlights is the impressive Caves Monastery complex (Perchersk Larva), where visitors can venture into the catacombs and see mummified monks in their tombs. At night the choice of excellent restaurants and lively bars is overwhelming. Catch a musical performance at the opera or the National philharmonic. For a sportier evening occasion, see Kyiv Dynamo in action at the National Football Stadium. Regent recommends…for a great view of the Dnipro River and the left bank visit Rodina Mat (Motherland). This huge titanium goddess was built during the Brezhev period and you can take the lift to the viewing platform in her right hand! HOTEL TOURIST HOTEL RUS HOTEL DNIPRO This large high-rise building is a threestar hotel located on the left bank of the Dnipro River. Rooms are basic but facilities include Japanese and Italian restaurants, nightclub, casino and souvenir shops. A large three-star Soviet-style hotel located in the city centre, not far from the main street. There are 416 well-appointed rooms with air-conditioning. Facilities include several bars and restaurants. This four-star hotel is located in the city centre overlooking Yevropeiska Ploshcha. The hotel has 192 rooms, we book the superior rooms which are modern with air-conditioning. Facilities include restaurant, bars and small fitness centre with an indoor pool. HOTEL TOURIST ALL YEAR ROUND Per Person Single Supplement £319 £51 HOTEL RUS Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £25 £17 Per Person Single Supplement £375 £78 HOTEL DNIPRO Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £43 £26 Per Person Single Supplement £485 £114 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £79 £38 Prices are per person and include three nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with Ukraine International Airlines and all air taxes. Flights: Ukraine International Airlines from London Gatwick Saturday night stay required Transfer: Kyiv Borispol Airport airport to city centre – 45 minutes Private transfer price: £35 per car one-way Departures: Daily Flight duration: 3 hours 20 minutes Business class supplement: £495 No visas required for UK passport holders REE AF DES CLU IN NOW YIV TO K IDE Y GU IT C REGENT HOLIDAYS - TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO UKRAINE SINCE 1990 45 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:21 Page 46 LVIV Lviv is truly Europe’s hidden pearl. A myriad of architectural styles, cobbled streets and colourful façades. The city’s changing name reflects its different influences; Lemberg, Lwow, Lvov and now Ukrainian Lviv. Ambling along the Hapsburg boulevards, visitors come across stunning examples of Baroque, Gothic and Renaissance architecture. At the heart of the Old Town is Ploshcha Rynok (Market Square) which dates back to the 16th century and was designed by Italians and Germans. The Roman Cathedral lies off Market Square, next to Boyim’s Chapel. This chapel is an ornate 17th-century building topped by a highly unusual sculpture of Christ, who is seated in the style of Rodin’s Thinker. Nearby, slowly being restored, is the Armenian Church, dating back to 1363. Take a walk to Vysoki Zamok (High Castle) on the site of the city’s old castle offering breathtaking city views, especially at sunset. Regent recommends…booking our local student guide Roman for a trip into the Carpathian Mountains. Taking a local train, you will visit a traditional Hutsul village, sample home-made produce and walk in the lower hills Carpathian. HOTEL HETMAN HOTEL DNISTER HOTEL GRAND A basic three-star hotel located in the suburbs of Lviv but the centre is easily reached by bus. There are 94 rooms in total and we book the euro rooms which are superior to the standard and have twin beds and modern furniture. The hotel has a good restaurant. Built in 1983, this three-star hotel is located close to the Old Town on the edge of a pleasant park. Rooms are basic and simply decorated with modern furniture. Facilities include a restaurant, 2 bars and a souvenir shop. Built in 1898 and elegantly restored in 1992, this four-star hotel is located in the Old Town. Rooms are spacious and stylish. Facilities include an excellent Ukrainian restaurant and fitness centre with swimming pool. HOTEL HETMAN ALL YEAR ROUND Per Person Single Supplement £385 £48 HOTEL DNISTER Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £20 £16 Per Person Single Supplement £435 £99 HOTEL GRAND Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £33 £33 Per Person Single Supplement £495 £51 Prices are per person and include three nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with LOT Polish Airlines and all air taxes. Flights: LOT Polish Airlines from London Heathrow and Manchester Transfer: Snilow Airport to Old Town – 15 minutes Private transfer price: : £25 per car one-way 46 Departures: Daily Flight duration: 4 hours 45 minutes via Warsaw Business class supplement: £575 No visas required for UK passport holders REGENT HOLIDAYS - TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO UKRAINE SINCE 1990 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £50 £17 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:21 Page 47 ODESSA With its distinctive history, diverse cultural influences and welcoming climate, Odessa makes for a fascinating city break. Although a busy port, city life revolves around the main street Deybasovskaya with its many shops, restaurants and café bars. Moving down towards the port, there’s more to see for the ardent fan of Soviet cinema. The Potemkin Steps, is where the scene of the massacre in Eisenstein’s masterpiece ‘Battleship Potemkin’ was filmed. Further along the sea front is the picturesque terrace of Vorontsov’s Palace with its excellent view of the port and Black Sea beyond. Beneath Odessa lies an impressive network of catacombs dug into the sandstone the city stands on. Tours are available but remember to bring your own torch! Regent recommends…a visit to Odessa’s Film Studio, which was very famous during the Soviet period. You need to make an appointment and take a guide but it is worth the effort to wander around abandoned film lots and see props and posters from famous Soviet films. HOTEL CHORNOYE MORE HOTEL LONDONSKAYA HOTEL MOZART This large hotel is located in the city centre of Odessa and although it has a four-star rating – the standard rooms are three-star. Facilities include three restaurants, nightclub, bar, casino and swimming pool. This Renaissance style four-star hotel is located not far from the Potemkin Steps and the Opera and Ballet Theatre. All 56 rooms are elegantly furnished with air-conditioning. Facilities include a restaurant, bar and gift shop. A boutique four-star hotel located in the centre of Odessa overlooking the Opera House. There are 40 elegantly decorated rooms with air-conditioning and mini-bar. Facilities include a restaurant and health club with swimming pool and sauna. HOTEL CHORNOYE MORE ALL YEAR ROUND Per Person Single Supplement £419 £57 HOTEL LONDONSKAYA Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £27 £19 Per Person Single Supplement £480 £60 HOTEL MOZART Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £55 £21 Per Person Single Supplement £530 £93 Extra nights Per Person Single Supp £63 £31 All accommodation prices are per with breakfast, return flights with Malev Hungarian Airlines and all air taxes. Prices are per person and include three nights Flights: Malev Hungarian Airlines from London Heathrow Transfer: Odessa Airport to city centre – 20 minutes Private transfer price: £25 per car one-way Departures: Daily Flight duration: 6 hours 10 minutes via Budapest Business class supplement: £520 No visas required for UK passport holders REGENT HOLIDAYS - TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO UKRAINE SINCE 1980 47 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:21 Page 48 YALTA Yalta, nestling in a coastal alcove at the base of the picturesque Crimean Mountains, makes a superb year-round city break. Its position protects the town from the elements, giving Yalta a unique microclimate. Autumn citybreakers can stroll amongst the palm trees in brilliant sunshine. The town itself is a jumble of winding little streets stretching around the seafront. Restaurants, casinos, shops and bars line the main promenade, which is crowded with street hawkers offering everything from palm reading to portrait photos in 18th-century costumes. The town owes its de-rigueur status as an elegant resort to Tsar Alexander II. Alexander was so captivated by Yalta he created his summer residence at nearby Livadia, thereby initiating a wave of aristocratic palace-building projects along the coast. Regent recommends…taking a trip on the longest trolleybus line in the world. At just under 54 miles this 2 hour route takes you from Yalta through the Yalia Mountains and Angarskiy Pass, reaching some 2,500 feet, before dropping down and continuing by the stunning coastal road to Simferopol. HOTEL YALTA HOTEL VREMENA GODA HOTEL OREANDA This large three-star old Soviet style hotel is located on the outskirts of Yalta in Massandra Park over one kilometre from the city centre. There are 1133 rooms, some with air-conditioning. Facilities include pool, private beach, 4 restaurants and 5 cafés and bars. A modern three-star hotel located in the centre of Yalta, not far from the beach. Rooms are basic but have airconditioning and a refrigerator. Facilities include a swimming pool, fitness room, restaurant and bar. This four-star hotel is centrally located on the sea front. Its 114 rooms are elegantly modern with air-conditioning. Facilities include a heated indoor and outdoor pool, fitness centre, private beach, casino and restaurant. HOTEL YALTA LOW SEASON 1 Jan - 24 Apr, 1 Oct - 31 Dec MID SEASON 25 Apr - 29 Jun, 1 Sep - 30 Sept HIGH SEASON 30 Jun - 31 Aug Per Person Single Supplement £452 HOTEL VREMENA GODA Extra nights Per Person Single Supplement £7 £475 £26 £12 £33 £15 Per Person Single Supp £21 £18 £475 £36 £497 £45 HOTEL OREANDA Extra nights Per Person Single Supplement £7 £579 £25 £10 £37 £13 Per Person Single Supp £21 £25 £485 £30 £499 £39 Per Person Single Supp £57 £60 £19 £669 £84 £90 £28 £699 £177 £99 £39 Prices are per person and include three nights accommodation with breakfast, return flights with Turkish Airlines and all air taxes. Flights: Turkish Airlines from London Heathrow Transfer: Simferopol Airport to Yalta – 2 hours Private transfer price: £70 per car one-way 48 Departures: Wednesdays Flight duration: 7 hours 20 minutes via Istanbul Business class supplement: £490 No visas required for UK passport holders REGENT HOLIDAYS - TAILOR-MADE SPECIALISTS TO UKRAINE SINCE 1980 Extra nights REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:21 Page 49 CLIMATE & VISA INFORMATION Country City Temperature Average High/Low ˚C January April July October Time Currency GMT Visa Prices and Information * (For UK passport holders)** Albania Armenia Azerbaijan Belarus Bosnia Bulgaria China Croatia Tirana Yerevan Baku Minsk Sarajevo Sofia Shanghai Zagreb Dubrovnik Split Prague Tallinn Tbilisi Budapest Tehran Riga Vilnius Palanga Skopje Chisinau Warsaw Gdansk Krakow Bucharest Moscow St Petersburg Kaliningrad Ekaterinburg Belgrade Bratislava Ljubljana Istanbul Kyiv Odessa Lviv Yalta 11/02 01/-8 03/0 10/-8 2/-5 02/-3 08/01 02/-3 11/5 02/-3 0/-5 -2/-8 07/-1 02/-4 03/07 -4/-10 -1/-6 0/6 05/02 -1/-8 0/-6 1/-3 0/-5 02/-7 -9/-16 -3/-14 -4/-10 -15/-20 03/-4 0/-5 02/-5 11/07 -4/-10 -1/-6 -4/-10 04/01 +1 +4 +4 +3 +1 +2 +8 +1 Lek Dram Manat Belarussian Rouble Dinar Lev Yuan Kuna €10 paid on arrival US$30 issued at Yerevan airport £56.80 through Zierer Visa Service £48.80 through Zierer Visa Service N/A N/A £58.80 through Zierer Visa Service N/A +1 +2 +4 +1 +4 +2 +2 Koruna Kroon Lari Florint Iranian Rial Lat Litas N/A N/A N/A N/A £137.80 through Visa Service N/A N/A +1 +2 +1 Denar Leu Zloty N/A US$60 issued at Chisinau airport N/A +2 +3 Leu Russian Rouble N/A £75 through Visa Service +2 +5 +1 +1 +1 +2 +2 New Yugoslav Dinar Koruna Tolar Turkish Lira Hryvnya N/A N/A N/A £10 paid on arrival N/A Czech Republic Estonia Georgia Hungary Iran Latvia Lithuania Macedonia Moldova Poland Romania Russia Serbia Slovakia Slovenia Turkey Ukraine 18/07 11/07 17/10 10/03 14/03 18/05 19/10 18/07 17/10 18/07 11/03 06/0 17/08 17/07 18/09 09/0 13/03 11/01 20/04 18/07 12/03 09/02 13/03 16/05 10/03 10/01 10/01 06/-1 16/04 15/07 15/02 17/12 14/04 12/06 14/04 16/05 31/18 32/19 31/25 21/12 25/13 28/17 32/23 28/16 28/20 28/16 23/13 22/14 33/21 27/15 37/22 22/11 23/11 19/4 32/14 28/16 24/14 21/14 24/13 27/15 26/13 21/13 22/11 20/16 28/13 26/17 25/12 29/20 25/14 24/19 25/14 28/15 23/10 11/05 20/11 10/05 16/05 19/09 23/14 13/07 21/13 13/07 12/05 08/03 20/10 15/06 20/15 13/05 10/03 08/04 19/05 17/08 14/05 13/07 14/05 17/06 09/03 09/04 12/05 04/-1 17/08 15/05 14/05 21/17 13/06 14/08 13/06 18/07 NOTES ON PASSPORT & VISAS British citizens require a full 10 year passport for travel to all countries featured in our brochure. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date that you return to the UK. It is your own responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of all visas necessary to enter or transit the countries included in your trip. We have appointed Zierer Visa Service to obtain visas for Regent clients. All the necessary application forms, visa support documents and detailed instructions for completion will be sent to you in order to apply direct to Zierer. The time required to obtain visas is based on information supplied by Zierer. They usually require passport(s) and completed application forms at least 3 weeks prior to your departure date. TRAVEL INSURANCE Go online to our website www.regent-holidays.co.uk and click on travel insurance to download rates and an application form from Global Travel Insurance Simply fill out the form and send direct to Global Travel Insurance with a cheque or credit card details. Insurance is not effective until a policy has been issued and please allow at least 5 days before you need to travel. HEALTH It is your responsibility to check all relevant recommendations and also to get the most up-to-date health information for the destinations you are visiting. You can contact your GP or any of the following organisations: The Medical Advisory Service for Travellers Abroad (MASTA): MASTA Travellers Health Line gives a Health Brief specifically tailored to your holiday on 0906 822 4100 (calls cost 60p/minute). www.masta.org Nomad Travel Store TRAVEL HEALTH LINE: 0906 8633414 (calls cost 60p/min/office hours only) 49 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:21 Page 50 RECOMMENDED READING Albania Eastern Europe Albania Bradt, 2003 Balkans Bosnia Herzegovina Croatia Macedonia Montenegro Slovenia Belgrade, Bradt Mini Guide Dubrovnik, Bradt Mini Guide Ljubljana, Bradt Mini Guide Bradt, 2004 Bradt, 2005 Bradt, 2004 Bradt, 2005 Bradt, 2005 Bradt, 2005 Bradt, 2005 Bradt, 2005 Baltic States Estonia Latvia Lithuania Baltic Capitals Tallinn, Bradt Mini Guide Riga, Bradt City Guide Vilnius,Bradt City Guide Bradt, 2004 Bradt, 2005 Bradt, 2005 Bradt, 2003 Bradt, 2004 Bradt, 2004 Bradt, 2005 Belarus Russia & Belarus Lonely Planet 2003 Bulgaria The Rough Guide to Bulgaria Czech and Slovak Republics Prague Prague Hungary Budapest, Bradt Mini Guide Poland Poland Romania and Moldova Romania Lonely Planet, 2002 Rough Guides, 2002 Lonely Planet, 2004 Insight Compact Guide, 2004 Lonely Planet, 2003 Lonely Planet, 2003 Bradt, 2004 Lonely Planet, 2005 Blue Guide, 2000 Lonely Planet, 2004 Rough Guide, 2004 Far East China China Shanghai Blue Guide, 2001 Lonely Planet, 2005 Lonely Planet, 2004 Russia Moscow and St Petersburg Moscow St Petersburg St Petersburg Odyssey Guides, 2003 Lonely Planet, 2003 Rough Guide, 2004 Lonely Planet, 2002 Turkey Caucasus & Iran Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan Georgia with Armenia Armenia Iran Lonely Planet, 2004 Bradt, 2002 Bradt, 2003 Bradt, 2005 Turkey Lonely Planet, 2005 Ukraine Ukraine Kiev, Bradt Mini Guide Bradt 2004 Bradt 2004 The Foreign & Commonwealth office produces up-to-date travel information to help British travellers make informed decisions about travelling abroad. For further information please visit www.fco.gov.uk/knowbeforeyougo or Tel: 0870 606 0290. Alternatively you can contact ABTA’s Travel Information line on 0901 201 5050 (calls are charged at 50 pence per minute) DATA PROTECTION STATEMENT Please be assured that we have measures in place to protect the personal booking information held by us. This information will be passed on to the principal and to the relevant suppliers of your travel arrangements. The information may also be provided to public authorities such as customs or immigration if required by them, or as required by law. Certain information may also be passed on to security or credit checking companies. If you travel outside the European Economic Area, controls on data protection may not be as strong as the legal requirements in this country. We will only pass your information on to persons responsible for your travel arrangements. This applies to any sensitive information that you give to us such as details of any disabilities, or dietary/religious requirements. (If we cannot pass this information to the relevant suppliers, whether in the EEA or not, we will be unable to provide your booking. In making this booking, you consent to this information being passed on to the relevant persons.) Full details of our data protection policy are available upon request. 50 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:21 Page 51 REGENT HOLIDAYS’ BOOKING CONDITIONS Please read carefully: Regent Holidays (UK) Ltd. accepts bookings subject to the following conditions: Introduction: Regent Holidays (UK) Ltd. specialise in holidays to ‘unusual destinations’, many of which still remain relatively underdeveloped and without the facilities and service levels found in West European countries. We do our best to provide exactly what our customers order. We must point out that this type of holiday necessarily carries a risk that accommodation, transportation schedules and other parts of the holiday will be subject to alterations beyond our control and occurring at short notice. We regard this as a necessary feature of such holidays, but we recognise that some travellers would prefer a more ‘conventional’ package holiday. If you book with Regent Holidays (UK) Ltd. we will do our best to provide you with the holiday you booked, in every detail but you must accept that changes may occur and local difficulties outside our control may arise. Your Holiday Contract: When you make a booking you guarantee that you are over 18 years and have the authority to accept and do accept on behalf of your party the terms of these booking conditions. A contract will exist as soon as deposit has been accepted and a confirmation invoice has been issued. It is your responsibility to check this carefully to confirm it matches what has been booked. This contract is made on the terms of these booking conditions, which are governed by English Law, and the jurisdiction of the English Courts. You may, however, choose the law and jurisdiction of Scotland or Northern Ireland if you wish. To secure your booking: We require a completed booking form with the necessary deposit before we can proceed. A deposit of GBP100 per person is required in most cases. However, in cases where airline policy dictates that tickets have to be issued within 72 hours of reservations being made, we reserve the right to request an increase in the amount of deposit payable. Tickets, once issued are non-refundable and any additional deposit paid by you is subject to the same cancellation conditions as the standard deposit amount. Clients booking by telephone, email or facsimile will be deemed to have read the booking conditions and to have signed the declaration on the booking form. Regent Holidays (UK) Ltd. reserves the right to decline any booking at their discretion. Payment for your holiday: We hold your deposit towards the full cost of the holiday. The full cost must be received by us not less than 56 days before departure date. In the case of holidays booked less than 56 days before departure the full cost must be received by us within 7 days of our sending written confirmation invoice, or such shorter time as we may specify. In the case of non-payment of balance by the due date we reserve the right to cancel your booking and retain your deposit. Surcharges: The price of your holiday is subject to surcharges on the following items: governmental action, currency, aircraft fuel, overflying charges, airport charges and increases in scheduled airfares. Even in this case, we will absorb an amount equivalent to 2% of the holiday price, visa charges and amendment fees. Only amounts in excess of this 2% will be surcharged. If this means paying more than 10% on the holiday price, you will be entitled to a full refund of all money paid except visa costs and amendment fees. Should you decide to cancel because of this we must receive written confirmation within 14 days from the issue date printed on your invoice. Prices in this brochure were calculated based on the following rates of exchange; USD1.68 and EUR1.45. If you change your booking: Should you decide to change your booking after the deposit has been paid and our written confirmation issued, we will do our best to accommodate you. There will be an administration fee of GBP30 per booking for any changes made plus any extra costs incurred in making these changes. If changes are required then we must receive written notification from you. You should be aware that these costs could increase the closer to the departure date that changes are made. If we change your holiday: Regent Holidays (UK) Ltd. reserves the right at any time to make changes to your holiday arrangements including flights, accommodation, transport or services). Such changes are often minor (e.g. a flight time change of less than 12 hours, change of accommodation of a comparable standard etc), but if not, we will advise you or your travel agent as soon as reasonably possible if there is time before your departure. If we make a major change before your departure date or the start date of services provided by us [a major change involves a change of destination, a change of flight time of more than 12 hours, or a change of airport which is inconvenient for you except London airports] you may cancel your booking and obtain a full refund of all monies paid by you to Regent Holidays (UK) Ltd. Visa costs cannot be refunded. If we make a major change 56 to 14 days before departure we will pay as liquidated damages GBP35 per person but shall be under no other liability. For major alterations made less than 14 days before departure we will pay GBP55 per person. No compensation is payable when such alterations arise due to ‘force majeure’. If you cancel your holiday: If you cancel after we send you a written confirmation invoice or if you fail to pay the full cost of the holiday within the specified time you will be liable to pay cancellation charges. These are calculated according to the date when we receive written notification of cancellation or the date upon which your cancellation is treated as occurring because of non-payment. The charges are based upon a proportion of the total cost of the holiday, as on our invoice excluding air taxes and visas, as follows: No. of days before departure when we receive your cancellation More than 56 days before departure Between 56 and 42 days before departure Between 41 and 28 days before departure Between 27 and 14 days before departure Less than 14 days Charge as percentage of your total holiday price excluding insurance and visas Deposit paid 30% 45% 60% 100% It is strongly recommended that full insurance be taken out, which includes cover, under certain circumstances, against loss of deposit or cancellation charges. If we cancel your holiday: When we send written confirmation and invoice we shall endeavour to provide you with the holiday booked. Occasionally we do have to cancel bookings - the main reason being lack of numbers - we reserve the right to do so 56 days before departure, except for reasons of force majeure or failure by you to pay the final balance. If we cancel in such circumstances we will offer an alternative holiday, if available (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value) or refund all monies paid by you. If is necessary to cancel your travel arrangements, we will pay to you compensation as set out below. No. of days before departure More than 56 days before departure Between 56 and 42 days before departure Between 41 and 28 days before departure Between 27 and 14 days before departure Less than 14 days Compensation per paying passenger Deposit paid 30% 45% 60% 100% The compensation that we offer does not exclude you from claiming more if you are entitled to do so. Force majeure: We regret we cannot accept any liability or pay any compensation where the performance or prompt performance of our contractual obligations is prevented or affected by ‘Force majeure’. In these booking conditions ‘force majuere’ means any event which we or our agents overseas could not, even with all due care, foresee or avoid. Such circumstances may include war, civil strife, industrial dispute, terrorist activity, natural or nuclear disaster, fire, adverse weather conditions and unavoidable technical problems with transport. Passports and Visas: It is your responsibility to ensure that you and all members of your party are in possession of a passport valid for all countries visited and that, where applicable, all inoculations have been carried out and health certificates are available as recommended by a health professional. All passports should be valid for at least six months after the date of your return. We will offer assistance and advice in obtaining visas and permission to enter countries as we can but we cannot in any circumstances be responsible if you or members of your party are not granted a visa or are refused entry into any country. We will not accept any responsibility or refund any money in cases where you are unable to travel because of an invalid or mislaid visa or passport. Tailor-made holidays: Please note that all arrangements booked and confirmed by the company which are made independently of those detailed in the brochure/website also require a completed, signed booking form and shall be governed by these booking conditions. If you have a complaint: If you have any complaint about our part of your holiday arrangements you must report it to our local representative at the soonest practical opportunity, and subsequently in writing within 28 days of your return. If you do not give such notice of complaint then this may affect our investigation into and the outcome of your complaint. Disputes arising out of, or in connection with this contract, which cannot be settled amicably, may be referred to arbitration under a special scheme which though devised by arrangements with the Association of British Travel Agents, is administered independently by the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators. The scheme (details of which will be supplied on request or obtained from the ABTA website www.abta.com) provides a simple and inexpensive method of Arbitration on documents alone, with restricted liability on the client in respect of costs. The scheme does not apply to claims for an amount greater than £5,000 per person or £25,000 per booking form. Claims can include an element of injury and illness up to a limit of £1,000 on the amount that can be awarded in respect of that element. However it does not cover claims which are solely or mainly in respect of physical injury or illness or the consequence of such injury or illness. Application for Arbitration must be made with 9 months of return from holiday. Insurance: We highly recommend that you purchase travel insurance before your trip. Please see page 49 for full details. Our liability to you: If the contract we have with you is not performed or is improperly performed by us or our suppliers we will pay you appropriate compensation if this has affected the enjoyment of your travel arrangements. However we will not be liable where any failure in the performance of the contract is due to: you; or a third party unconnected with the provision of the travel arrangements and where the failure is unforeseeable or unavoidable; or unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all due care had been exercised; or an event which we or our suppliers, even with all due care, could not foresee or forestall. Our liability, except in cases involving death, injury or illness, shall be limited to a maximum of twice the cost of your travel arrangements. Our liability will also be limited in accordance with and/or in an identical manner to (a) The contractual terms of the companies that provides the transportation for your travel arrangements. These terms are incorporated into this contract; and (b) Any relevant international convention, for example the Montreal Convention in respect of travel by air, the Athens Convention in respect of travel by sea, the Berne Convention in respect of travel by rail and the Paris Convention in respect of the provision of accommodation, which limit the amount of compensation that you can claim for death, injury, delay to passengers and loss, damage and delay to luggage. We are to be regarded as having all benefit of any limitation of compensation contained in these or any conventions. You can ask for copies of the transport companies' contractual terms, or the international conventions, from our office: Regent Holidays, 15 John St, Bristol, BS1 2HR tel: 0117 921 1711 Under EU law you have rights in some circumstances to refunds and/or compensation from your airline in cases of denied boarding, cancellation or delay to flights. Full details of these rights will be publicised at EU airports and will also be available from airlines. However reimbursement in such cases is the responsibility of the airline and will not automatically entitle you to a refund of your holiday cost from us. Your right to a refund and/or compensation from us is set within these booking conditions. If any payments to you are due from us, any payment made to you by the airline will be deducted from this amount. If your airline does not comply with these rules you should complain to the Air Transport Users' Council on 020 7240 6061 www.auc.org.uk Personal injury unconnected with your booked travel arrangements: Should the circumstances arise where the customer, or any member of the party suffers personal injury, illness or death whilst on holiday which may have arisen from a situation unconnected with the arrangements made by the company, the company will, at their reasonable discretion, offer advice and initial financial assistance where appropriate up to a maximum of £5,000 per party. All requests for assistance should be made within 90 days from the end of the misadventure. In the event of a claim under this paragraph against the company by the customer, the company reserves the right to claim in the place of the customer against the person or corporation responsible for the act, default or omission giving rise to the claim and the customer hereby agrees to assist the company fully in the event to enforce the rights which have been assigned to us, or to which we are subjugated. This brochure is our responsibility, as your tour operator. It is not issued on behalf of, and does not commit the airlines mentioned herein or any airline whose services are used in the course of your travel arrangements. Please note that in accordance with Air Navigation Orders in order to qualify for infant status, a child must be under 2 years of age on the date of its return flight. 51 REGENT_Cities06A.qxd 10/1/06 12:21 Page 52 Regent Holidays 15 John Street, Bristol BS1 2HR Tel: 0117 921 1711 Fax: 0117 925 4866 Email: [email protected] www.regent-holidays.co.uk