The Big L Travel Supplement
Every week Big L DJs will be taking a look at the best destinations around the globe. This is more than just a travel show, expect a musical bent too.
The Big L Travel Supplement, Saturday at 12:00
Travel Supplement Information Page
If you like what you've heard about some of the destinations featured on the Big L travel Supplement and would like to know more. Then you've come to the right place!
Listed below is all the destinations that the Big L Travel Supplement has visited so far, with useful facts, information and key websites for you to find out more.
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This beautiful, strong island has a story; one that spands 9000 years and reads like a blockbuster. As the legendary birth place for both aphrodite and adonis, Cyprus is home to legend as well as a rich historical past. Drenched in year round sunshine, An enviable climate awaits you. During July and August tempratures can be well above 30 degrees centigrade and in the winter months Mount Olympus turns into a ski resort. For more information visit www.LibraHolidays.co.uk |
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The Galapagos Islands offer the most extraordinary introduction to some of the most unique and bizarre wildlife on the planet. In fact, so rare are many of the species here that virtually all the reptiles and half the bird life are found nowhere else on earth. A seven-night, full board cruise aboard the M/V Eclipse, with air-conditioned cabins and small pool, plus two nights’ accommodation with breakfast at the Patio Andaluz Hotel in Quito prior to the cruise, including return flights (Heathrow), costs from £2,961 pp (two sharing) for departures during November 2007. Islands visited include Espanola for sea lion viewing, Santa Cruz (the Charles Darwin Research Station is based here) and Isabela for its pelicans, flamingos, turtles and more. Call Sunvil Latin America 020 8758 4774; www.sunvil.co.uk. As part of its commitment to responsible travel, Sunvil Latin America includes one years' membership to the Galapagos Conservation Trust in the cost of all its holidays. |
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Take part in a seafood adventure with a lobster safari on West Sweden’s Bohuslän coast. The lobster season opens on 24 September when the ‘black gold’ is brought up from the depths of the ocean. Visit Handelsman Flink (www.handelsmanflink.se), a stylish hotel an hour and a half’s drive north of Gothenburg, and join an expert lobster-catcher for half a day to pull up the pots and set them again, tie the lobster’s claws and hear your host’s stories about the creatures and life at sea. Return to the hotel to help cook the catch and enjoy your self-sought supper. The lobster safari costs 3,200 SEK (about £232 pp) and includes lunch, the lobster safari, lobster dinner and overnight accommodation at the hotel with breakfast. For more information on West Sweden and the lobster season, contact the West Sweden Tourist Board (www.west-sweden.com). NB. This package is also available as a gift voucher - visit the website for details. Flights: Flights to Gothenburg from Heathrow are available with SAS (www.flysas.com) from £54 one-way including taxes. Flights to Gothenburg from Stansted are available with Ryanair (www.ryanair.com) from £25 return including taxes. |
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Greece's history stretches back almost 4000 years when the people of the mainland organized great expeditions. High mountain ranges intersected by valleys and rivers contrast with endless scenic coastline lapped by crystal blue waters. Such beauty is quite rare in the mediterranean. Experience its culture and let the warmth of it's people embrace you. The majority of Greeks speak and understand the English language, yet traditions and customs are carried on throughout generations and remain an integral part of day to day life. For more information on the islands of Greece visit the Libra holidays website (www.libraholidays.co.uk). |
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Biologically, South America is the richest of the Earth's continents. Its Amazon Basin holds the largest and most diverse tract of tropical rainforest on the planet, while its major mountain range, the Andes, harbours an astonishing variety of ecosystems that range from the tundralike paramo and epiphyte-laden cloudforest to rain-shadow valleys and deciduous deserts. To sample these riches there is no better country in which to start than Ecuador. In this small country an astonishing diversity of birdlife may be found (the greatest for its size in South America), and with a welcoming people, relatively short travel distances and good accommodation, birdwatching here is truly a delight. For more information about Skiing holidays, visit the AITO website (www.aito.co.uk). |
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This ancient land of pharaohs and kings lies between Africa and the Middle East. With a history stretching over 6,000 years and influenced by foreign princes and high rulers, this leading Arab state will never cease to amaze and inspire you. The sky sparkles with sunshine and the rainy days are few and far between - making Egypt the perfect year-round destination. Boasting a minimum of 345 sunny days a year with a daily average of 12 hours of hot sunshine and low humidity in the summer. Flights for Egypt operate to Luxor, Cairo, Taba, Sharm el Sheikh and Hurghada. Aswan is via an internal flight. For more information on holidays to Egypt visit the Libra Holidays website (www.libraholidays.co.uk). |
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Romania is a country of shepherds. The flocks are enormous and the year revolves around the flock’s requirements. In the spring they graze in the fields of the high plains which are fertilised as a result and are resplendent with flowers. The flocks are them moved to the high alpine meadows where the shepherds look after them and make the many varieties of cheese. Donkeys carry supplies and dogs are there to protect the flocks from wolves and bears. There are far more horses and carts in Romania and this is the main form of transport. All horses have a red flower fixed to their bridle as it believed that this wards off the evil eye. One often sees young foals trotting alongside and adult horse drawing a cart so that it can become accustomed to what life has in store! You will eat well in Romania, good home cooking with ingredients straight from the land. Tomatoes, cucumbers, aubergines and water melons all feature heavily. The religion being Romanian Eastern Orthodox means that vegetarians are well catered for too in the traditional cuisine. Soups are plentiful and particularly nourishing and often eaten with a dollop of sour cream. Pork is very popular as are stuffed vine or cabbage leaves - a legacy of the Turkish occupation Spicy grilled meat balls, very reminiscent of Turkish/Greek ‘Kioftedes’ are also generally on the menu. Sausages – the German influence – are also very much in evidence. For more information on holidays to Romania visit the Sunvil Holidays website (www.sunvil.co.uk). |
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A perfect example of a fortified maritime city, Dubrovnik hugs the Croatian coastline, hemmed in between towering mountains and the glistening Adriatic Sea. Inside the fortified and well-preserved city walls of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, visitors will find a townscape of unusual harmony, untouched by urban blight. The city's pink-hued rooftops create a most pleasing picture which is perhaps the most attractive in the Mediterranean, while noble town houses and stately palaces sit side by side with more modest dwellings on the terraced and winding narrow roads within its walls. There's also an extensive network of ferries to take you to the the beautiful islands of the Adriatic, such as Mljet or Elafati, each with their own distinctive charm and character. A three-night short break to Dubrovnik with Kirker Holidays costs from £508 pp, including return flights, transfers to/from the hotel and three nights' accommodation with breakfast at the three-star superior Hotel Stari Grad, located in the heart of the old town. Call Kirker Holidays on 020 7593 2288 (www.kirkerholidays.com). |
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The country with the chilly name is rapidly becoming one of Europe's hottest destinations. Much of Iceland's popularity is due to its natural features, which include glaciers, hot springs, geysers, active volcanoes, portentous peaks and vast lava deserts. In addition to its expansive landscape, Iceland has a rich history and folklore tradition. However, this appeal is tempered by the most expensive prices in Europe. That doesn't mean it can't be visited on a shoestring, but it does mean that budget travellers will have to work a little harder. For more information about Iceland, visit the Iceland Air website (www.icelandair.co.uk). |
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It is possible to explore canyons, cloud forests, palm-fringed beaches, world-class museums and galleries. A leisurely wander around the streets of Oaxaca, San Cristóbal or Mérida can be an absolute delight – listening to the live music in the square and soaking up the ambience. The hard-working Mexicans are congenial and welcoming people. Out of a total population of 105 million, nearly 30 percent are indigenous whilst 60 percent are mestizos (fusion of indigenous and European blood). They are great fans of pyrotechnics and incorporate fireworks whenever possible into the numerous celebrations. For more information call Sunvil Latin America: 020 8758 4774, or visit the website (www.sunvil.co.uk.). |
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Umbria is a region of Central Italy, bordered by Tuscany to the west, the Marche to the east and Lazio to the south. The region is named for the Umbri tribe, who settled in the region in protohistoric times (6th century BC): 672 BC is the legendary date of foundation of the town of Terni (Interamna). Their language was Umbrian, a relative of Latin and Oscan. If your a food buff this is certainly the place for you to visit, with their wonderful selection of cheese and wine, you'll be in heaven. For more information contact Real Holidays on 020 7359 3938, or visit the website (www.realholidays.co.uk). |
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Why not take a journey through France to Venice, or a trip from John O' Groats to Lands End? Now think about doing it on a train! Experience the countryside in all its natural glory, winding through the depths and valleys of where ever you wish to go. Ffestiniog Travel will sort out all your requirements from travelling across Europe to a relaxing journey through the UK. For more information about train holidays visit Ffestiniog Travel (http://www.festtravel.co.uk). |
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With their explosive shapes and unique colours, the Italian Dolomites are undoubtedly among the most beautiful and spectacular mountains in the world. Without question, they are the crown jewels of the alpine range. At every turn you are stopped in your tracks by the awesome beauty and sheer magnificence of this classic mountain environment. Should you decide on a holiday amid such splendour, you will remember it forever. For more information about mountaineering in the Dolomites, visit the Colletts Mountain Holidays website (www.colletts.co.uk). |
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India provides a contrast of some of the most ancient and amazing cultures, fascinating languages, exotic styles of dress and almost every type of scenery. From spectacular landscapes, wildlife, great architecture, warmth and traditional hospitality, to the sun, sand and surf, India has it all. India is the land of variety and it would take you more than a life time to explore and discover the country. Every holiday provides a stimulating cultural experience. For more information about India, visit the Somak Holidays website (http://www.somak.com/). |
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For great beaches travel either to Costa Rica's Pacific coast, where the choice of hotel ranges from the ultra-simple to the ultra-stylish, or to the African influenced Caribbean coast in the south east. Adrenalin is also available in plenty, with zip-lines high through the forest, surfing on Pacific rollers, white-water rafting, trekking, and horse riding all easy to find. Costa Rica is peaceful and well organised (it is often called the Switzerland of Latin America). It has no army, educational and health standards are relatively high, and English is widely spoken. Distances are short, there are many well-kept small hotels and guesthouses, and there is a warm welcome everywhere. For more information about Costa Rica, visit the Geodyssey website (www.geodyssey.co.uk). |
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Here is an opportunity to follow in the footsteps of the Impressionists and discover the collective works of Renoir, Degas, Monet, van Gogh and many more, as well as having time to visit the world's most romantic city. We begin in Paris where we include a visit to the Musée d'Orsay and the Musée de l'Orangerie, two of the capital's finest museums, before heading upriver towards Auvers-sur-Oise, a small village adopted by Impressionist painters. We also have the chance to visit the small auberge where van Gogh stayed while producing over 70 works, along with his final resting place. We also float by Argenteuil, where many of these painters composed their famous river scenes. For more information about French Cruising, visit the VFB website (www.vfbholidays.co.uk). |
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Go on an adventure holiday with Explore holidays. With the Explore formula, you can be assured that for starters you'll find yourself with a group of like-minded, adventurous and sociable people - right from day one. The social aspect of sharing an adventure has been one of the great incentives to 'go Explore' right from the start. And having a trained tour leader with you throughout the tour just adds to the feeling of being on a chilled, no-worries and fun holiday. For more information about Adventure Holidays, visit the Explore holidays website (www.explore.co.uk). |
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Imagine waking up next to a remote reef, dropping over the side after breakfast, descending into clear warm waters amongst a vast variety of corals and marine life, soaking up the sun whilst cruising to the next site and returning from a night dive to a welcoming meal.
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At one time thought to be part of the legendary lost continent of Atlantis, the islands were discovered in the 15th century by Portuguese navigators en route to the New World and became the link between Europe and the Americas. In fact, they belong to Portugal and are part of Europe.
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Nonstop Ski & Snowboard is a family-run company with a passion for the mountains, snow and adventure.
Whether you're on a gap year, career break, career change or winter holiday, we provide the experience of a lifetime in some of the world's greatest ski areas.   Established in 2002 for the past five winters we have been successfully running both instructor courses and improvement camps in the Canadian Rockies. During this time we have grown to become the leading instructor training and ski improvement companies in the world developing a reputation for running programmes that mix the highest level of professional coaching with a close-knit sociable course culture. For more information about holidays and courses, visit their websites - (http://www.nonstopski.com) or (http://www.nonstopsnow.com) |
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Welcome to Frontier Canada - the greatest choice of tailor-made holidays to Canada. Frontier Canada can help you see whales or bears on a wildlife watching holiday, cruise holiday from Vancouver to Alaska, enjoy the open roads of Canada in a motorhome hoiday or organise a Canadian fly-drive holiday. Frontier Canada are the experts if you want a ranch or riding holiday, to see bear eating salmon, to play golf in Whistler or the Rockies, take a train holiday across Canada or just through the Canadian Rockies. If you want a city break in Toronto or a month long holiday in British Columbia, you have come to the right place.
Frontier Travel, a leading player in the field of holidays to Canada, is privately owned and run by people who know and love Canada. We have been established for 15 years and in that time have travelled to every province in this wonderful country. We bring to you some of the best skiing in North America as well as an enormous range of summer activities, self-drive itineraries, and wildlife viewing opportunities. We make each holiday just right for you and your budget, whether you like comfortable country inns, luxurious resorts, back country lodges or sophisticated city hotels, we can arrange it. Our knowledge is unsurpassed and we await your call to discuss your requirements. You will find Bolanle, Ruby, Mark, Jeremy and Sandra all ready and waiting to answer any questions you may have. We all go to Canada regularly and are looking forward to sharing our love of the country with you. For more information, visit the Frontier Canada website: (http://www.frontier-canada.co.uk/) |
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Nonstop Sail strives to provide our customers with an excellent service and a great sailing experience. Nonstop Sail is totally committed to improving standards of teaching. We work closely with the RYA with the aim of developing a team of likeminded skippers to give the highest standards of sailing and safety in the UK. It is important to us that your chosen course is the right one for you. Time is always spent developing the best course for you and we are always keen to find a course to suit your exact requirements. To find a course or book a trip, check out the website: (www.nonstopsail.com) |
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Published in conjunction with The Times the purpose of this travel journal is two-fold. Firstly, there's advice to help you whatever journey you are undertaking. The author Cath Urquhart until recently travel editor at The Times has looked at the environmental concerns, the essential paperwork and dealing with any scrapes you may get into. Secondly, of course, the journal itself, for you to record your trip. However high-tech we have become, a journal will always be an essential piece of the traveller's kit. For more information, visit the Navigator Guides website: (www.navigatorguides.com) |
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Croatia extends from the furthest eastern edges of the Alps in the north-west to the Pannonian lowlands and the banks of the Danube in the east; its central region is covered by the Dinara mountain range, and its southern parts extend to the coast of the Adriatic Sea. The Adriatic sea got its name from an ancient port of the same name. The Adriatic spans from the Balkan to the Apennine peninsula. The part belonging to the Republic of Croatia is the eastcoast which extends all the way from Prevlaka in the south to cape Savudrija in the west,including all islands, islets and cliffs along the coast,and the archipelago of Palagruza (the number of islands, islets and cliffs is more than 1700). This is a unique area in Europe forcruising with motor boats, speedboats, or sailboats, but also for enjoying the underwater world. For more information, visit the Croatian Tourist Board website: (www.croatia.hr) |
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At The Russia Experience we ditch the clichés and puff, making the world’s most famous rail trip come alive with rich, real content. We offer unique step-off modules the whole route through – enabling you to plug into authentic experiences - avoiding touristy hokum. We have no group departures; our advertised dates always operate (barring anything completely beyond our control); and, above all, we tell you the unvarnished truth in advance – allowing you to make the right choice from a portfolio of journeys rich in variety and full of memorable experiences. For more information about how to book this wonderful rail journey, visit the trans-siberian website at: (http://www.trans-siberian.co.uk) |
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Go back to the days of rounding up horses and being part of a working ranch in the States with American Round Up ranch holidays. Be a part of a working ranch and become a real cowboy or take advantge of the luxury ranch and take on the less stressful tasks of golf playing and ballooning. With ranches across America and Canada there will be a ranch too suit just you, your family or even a group. For more details about these holidays visit: (http://www.americanroundup.com) |
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Whether you're a family or couple, a Eurocamp camping or self catering holiday can be as relaxing or as varied as you want it to be. Feel free to go 'Park Hopping', on a choice of over 150 campsites throughout Europe, or relax at one parc for the duration of your holiday, making the most of stunning beaches or beautiful countryside. For more details on how to book a Eurocamp holiday, visit the website (http://www.eurocamp.co.uk) or call 0844 406 0402 |
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Over the last five years the world of travel has changed dramatically, yet, in spite of the influence of the internet, our clients continue to rely on our service and advice to ensure that they get the best out of their holiday. If you delight in spending time surfing the worldwide web to secure the cheapest ‘no frills’ flights, and if you are confident in booking hotels on the strength of a tempting website photograph, then Kirker is perhaps not (yet!) for you. However, if you need flexibility, and would like the reassurance of speaking to a human being, then please do call us! Within our team we have over 150 years of experience and we willingly take responsibility for every aspect of your trip to ensure that we turn your short break into a really exceptional holiday. For more information about Kirker Holidays, visit (www.kirkerholidays.com) |
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So, where can you go skiing, the choice of destinations is vast. AITO specialists cover over 175 resorts in seven European countries, the USA, Canada and Chile. You may have heard of the famous European resorts such as St Anton, Chamonix or La Plagne of the Canadian resorts of Banff, Jasper or Le Massif or the USA resorts of Copper Mountain, Jackson Hole or Vail but, don’t forget the hundreds of lesser-known, quieter resorts where you can really get off the beaten track and experience that skiing holiday of a lifetime. For more information about Skiing holidays, visit the AITO website (www.aitoskiholidays.co.uk). |