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SriLankan increasing international flights

SriLankan Airlines is increasing its services from Colombo to select destinations in Europe, Asia, the Middle East and the Indian sub-continent on 25 October.

Services to London Heathrow will rise to 12 flights per week from 10, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur will increase to 10 flights per week from seven and Hong Kong will go to four flights weekly from three, says the flag carrier.

“Four cities in the Indian subcontinent region will receive additional flights,” it adds.

“Trichy in south India and the Maldivian capital Male will each receive two additional flights” increasing Trichy’s frequency to nine per week and Male to 23 per week, it says.

“The airline is also increasing one flight each to Bangalore and Karachi which will then have five and three flights respectively.”

In the Middle East, SriLankan is increasing Bahrain, Doha and Dammam flights by one flight per week to three, five and four-times weekly respectively, it adds.

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Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka Popularity Soars Among UK Population

For those timeshare owners looking for somewhere away from Europe and more typical holiday destinations, it seems as though Sri Lanka’s popularity has soared among those in the UK.

According to the Sri Lanka Tourist Promotion Bureau, the country has seen a 16.9 per cent rise in August of this year in comparison to the same period in 2008.

Sri Lanka saw the highest number of British tourists in 2009 flock to the country this August, with an increase of more than 1,000 visitors when compared to the same month last year.

Sanjika Perera, UK director of tourism, said that it was great to see people have renewed faith in the safety of the country and the value for money it offers.

Figures from the Pacific Asia Travel Association recently showed increased travel demand to Sri Lanka, rising by 28 per cent when compared to last year.

Thanks: GoTimeshare.org

USA

Sedona’s Original Vortex Tour from Sedona, Arizona

BOOK THIS TOUR – CLICK HERE!
From £72.90
Location: Sedona, Arizona

Come and discover the mystical world of healing, spirituality and metaphysics. As you visit two of the main vortices in Sedona, you will experience the forces of nature and unravel the mysteries surrounding them. So come along, with an open mind and let your spirit soar.

Inclusions:

* 4WD Jeep Tour with professional driver/guide
* Local taxes
* Conducted in English

Sedona is recognized worldwide for the presence of powerful energy spots known as ‘vortices’. The desire to explore the mystery and significance of these areas led to the birth of this tour – the original Vortex Tour.

What is a vortex? Where are they? Where do they come from? How can the energy be utilized in healing? You’ll explore these questions and more as this tour visits at least two of the four main Sedona vortices.

Schedule

Departure Point: Tours depart from your Sedona hotel or make your own way to 270 N. Hwy 89A, Sedona – Please Note: Hotel pick-up is not available from hotels in Oak Creek.
Departure Time: 8:00am
Return Details: Returns to original departure point at approximately 10:30am

For additional information and bookings GO HERE!

COMPARE AND BOOK FROM 50 HOTEL DEALS IN SEDONA, ARIZONA – HERE!

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Mexico

Sierra Madres 4WD Jeep Adventure Tour

BOOK THIS TOUR – CLICK HERE!
From £53.75
Location: Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
4star based on 2 reviews

Jump on this exciting Sierra Madres Jeep Adventure safari tour and explore the fascinating, traditional “Old Mexico” villages. You’ll have the opportunity to journey in the Mexican outback, as well as learn about the ecology and wildlife found in the mountains and jungles of the Sierra Madres in Puerto Vallarta.

Inclusions:

* 4WD Jeep Safari Tour
* BBQ Lunch
* Unlimited Beverages
* Conducted in English

If getting off the beaten path while looking for a little adventure is appealing to you, take this opportunity to travel back in time, when life was less hectic and the simple events of each day had greater significance. Venturing away from the suburbs of Vallarta in your specially designed Mercedes Benz all-terrain vehicles, your off-road voyage of discovery begins as you are taken through mountain streams, past forgotten villages and over bumpy terrain on a mission to reach the heart of the Sierra.

It is here, in the depths of the forest vegetation that your knowledgeable, ecologically trained guides will take you on an amazing 45-minute educational nature walk, encouraging you to discover and explore the extraordinary flora and fauna hidden away under the canopy of the jungle.

You’ll then be taken to a golden expanse of virgin coastline, where you’ll enjoy an ‘al fresco’ lunch prepared by your dedicated guides. Savour local tastes as you kick back and relax on the white sands of a beautiful, secluded beach.

Don’t miss this eye-opening day that will invigorate your senses and offer you a window of discovery within a safe, fun-filled environment.

Schedule

Departure Point: Vallarta Adventure Centre in Nuevo Vallarta at 8:30 am, or at Marina Vallarta at 9:30 am.
Departure Time: 8:30am

For additional information and bookings GO HERE!

It was one of the funniest days ever. We really liked our tour guide, spoke very good English and was a lot of fun. He knew so much about the areas we went to. Saw a lot of neat places and learned a lot. I would recommend this tour as a must.

Reviewed by: Sheldon P, Canada

COMPARE AND BOOK FROM 130+ HOTEL DEALS IN PUERTO VALLARTA, MEXICO – HERE!

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Australia

Cape Leveque and Aboriginal Community 4WD Tour with Optional…

BOOK THIS TOUR – CLICK HERE!
From £149.35
Location: Broome, Australia

Take in the spectacular Dampier Peninsula from the air! Combine a scenic flight with an adventurous 4WD t0ur to Cape Leveque. Stop at a remote Aboriginal community along the way. Relax, swim and explore the pristine beach of Cape Leveque, a remote wilderness area in the Western Kimberley. This tour is a must for all those who visit Broome.

Inclusions:

* Expert local commentary with knowledgeable guides
* Transportation by luxury 4WD vehicle
* Optional to fly one leg of the tour (select option at time of booking)
* Picnic lunch
* Morning and afternoon tea
* Conducted in English

The journey along rugged road terrain is broken with a stop at Beagle Bay Aboriginal Community. View an exquisite Pearl Shell Altar in a church built in 1918 by Pallotine Monks. Arrive at the coastal wilderness of Cape Leveque and 4WD onto the beach and relax for approximately 2 hours for lunch and free time. The journey home takes in a tour of Lombadina Aboriginal Community. Subject to availability, visit the craft store featuring traditional hand crafted works. Arrive in Broome at approximately 8:30pm.

Scenic flight from Broome to Cape Leveque – join tour at Cape Leveque- 4WD back to Broome:
Combine a scenic flight over the stunning islands of the Buccaneer Archipelago and the amazing Horizontal Waterfalls with a 4WD road trip home from Cape Leveque, a remote northwest Australian coastal wilderness area. Includes a visit to Lombadina Aboriginal Community and lunch on the beach at Cape Leveque. Arrive in Broome at approximately 8:30pm.

4WD from Broome to Cape Leveque – flight from Cape Leveque back to Broome:
Combine the thrill of a flight with a 4WD road trip for a contrasting experience of Cape Leveque, a remote coastal wilderness area. Included is a visit to Beagle Bay Aboriginal Community and lunch on the beach at Cape Leveque. Arrive home early and reduce the travel time on the rugged Cape Leveque road. Take the 4WD via Beagle Bay, after lunch fly home to Broome arriving at approximately 5:30pm.

Schedule

Departure Point: Tour departs from your centrally located Broome and Cable beach hotels
Departure Time: 7:45am / 7:00am – Scenic flight from Broome to Cape Leveque
Return Details: Tour returns to original departure point at approximately 8:30pm unless returning by air, in which case you’ll return at approximately 5:30pm

For additional information and bookings GO HERE!

COMPARE AND BOOK FROM 35+ HOTEL DEALS IN BROOME, AUSTRALIA

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Brazil

Tijuca Rain Forest 4WD Jeep Tour from Rio de…

BOOK THIS TOUR – CLICK HERE!

From £37.25
Location: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Take a morning or afternoon tour from Rio to the Tijuca Rain Forest, in an open jeep. The four-hour jeep tour includes an easy one-hour hike, giving you the chance to spot monkeys, birds, butterflies and tropical flora. You’ll be amazed by the remarkable contrast of a tropical rain forest right in the middle of a big city.

Inclusions:

* 4WD Jeep tour of Tijuca Rain Forest
* 1 hour eco hike
* Hotel pickup and drop off
* Conducted in English

At the Tijuca Rain Forest you’ll take an eco trek lasting approximately one hour, following an easy trail. There’s no better way to experience the living rain forest. You’ll have many spectacular photo opportunities on this rain forest jeep tour from Rio de Janeiro.

On your tour you’ll pass the Cachoeira dos Macacos (monkey’s waterfall), take photos at Vista Chinesa (Chinese view), hear about the important reforestation program and learn the importance of the Mata Atlantica (Atlantic Forest) ecosystem. The tour also takes you past the Mesa do Imperador (Emperor’s table), Cascatinha (Taunay’s waterfall) and Capela Mayrink (Mayrink Chapel).

Schedule

Departure Point: Pickup is available from most major hotels in the zones São Conrado, Leblon, Ipanema and Copacabana or the cruise ship port
Departure Time: Morning – 9:00am / Afternoon – 2:00pm

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.

Return Details: Returns to original departure point

For additional information and bookings GO HERE!

COMPARE AND BOOK FROM 170+ HOTEL DEALS IN RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – HERE!

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Australia

Gold Coast 4WD Eco Outback Tracks Tour

BOOK THIS TOUR – CLICK HERE!
From £48.13
Location: Gold Coast, Australia

Join the Outback Tracks tour and discover waterfalls cascading into mountain streams, thick green rainforests alive with native birds and animals and the rugged hillside trails on Tamborine Mountain.

Sighting of kangaroos in the Tamborine area is common and not to forget the koala who are often seen sleeping the day away in a gum tree beside one of the rough bush tracks.

Inclusions:

Hotel pickup and drop off from the Gold Coast
Touring by 4WD vehicle
Private Driver / Guide
Park and wildlife fees
Morning or afternoon tea
Wine tasting
Free snacks included
Get up-close to native wildlife
Ideal choice for families
Informative, friendly and professional guide
Choice of morning or afternoon departure
Australian Goods and Services Tax (GST)
Conducted in English

Joalah National park will be our first stop where our experienced guides will guide you through and explain the uniqueness of the Rainforests and Eucalyptus forests that make up the Tamborine Plateau.

The carefully worked out timetable allows for frequent stops to take in the sweeping views and leisurely walks through the forests.

You’ll be given lessons on how to throw a Boomerang and define the difference between a boomerang and a stick!

Enjoy morning or afternoon tea of fresh scones, served with jams, cream, tea and coffee. You’ll have the chance to check out the Gallery Walk on the mountain and complete your Mt Tamborine experience with wine tasting.

On this half day tour you will have the opportunity to experience this rainforest wilderness with a friendly, knowledgeable guide. Just say G’Day when you hop on board and he will make you feel right at home.

The operator of this tour was selected as a finalist in the 2008 Queensland Tourism Awards

Schedule

Departure Point: Tour departs from selected Gold Coast hotels (North of Burleigh only)
Departure Time: 8:00am / 1:00pm – Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.
Return Details: Tour concludes on the Gold Coast at approximately 12.30pm (morning tour) or 5.30pm (afternoon tour)

For additional information and bookings GO HERE!

COMPARE AND BOOK FROM 350+ HOTEL DEALS IN GOLD COAST, AUSTRALIA – HERE!

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USA

Sonoran Desert Night Tour in a Hummer from Phoenix…

BOOK THIS TOUR – CLICK HERE!
From £84.52
Location: Phoenix – Scottsdale, Arizona

Experience the Sonoran Desert in a way few get to see it. Enter the desert after sundown as the creatures of the night stir. Let your informative and entertaining local guide show you the secrets of the evening desert and enjoy the excitement of a Hummer tour.

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Inclusions:

* Hummer Night Tour
* Hotel Pickup is optional – surcharge applies
* Conducted in English

Once the sun goes down, the Sonoran Desert becomes especially intriguing. Mountains that are rugged and majestic during daylight hours become dark, sleeping giants after sundown.

The mighty Saguaro Cactus lives up to its reputation of being the “Sentinel of the Desert”, standing guard as the creatures of the night stir from their day-long hibernation from the desert heat.

Go beyond the boundaries of a regular jeep in the unstoppable Hummer as you travel deeper into the desert than an ordinary tour can go.

Schedule

Departure Point: Tour departs from 17212 E Shea Blvd, Fountain Hills
Departure Time: 6:30pm – Hotel pickups from Phoenix and Scottsdale commence prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.
Return Details: Returns to original point of departure

For additional information and bookings GO HERE!

COMPARE AND BOOK FROM 150+ HOTEL DEALS IN PHOENIX, ARIZONA – HERE!

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Egypt

Bedouin BBQ in the Egyptian Desert by 4×4

BOOK THIS TOUR – CLICK HERE!
From £25.60
Location: Hurghada, Egypt
4star based on 4 reviews

This 4×4 adventure safari takes you to the missing parts of Egypt, where you can discover the beauty of Egypt’s oasis and deserts. Meet Bedouin people and learn about their lives then witness an amazing sunset over the Egyptian desert landscape. Later enjoy a BBQ dinner Egyptian style.

Inclusions:

* BBQ dinner
* Hotel pickup and drop off
* Qualified Egyptologist guide
* Transport by modern 4×4 vehicle
* Conducted in English

A one-hour drive by jeep through the desert brings you to the starting point of your tour. After an easy 30-minute walk up a small hill you will be met by your Bedouin hosts and introduced to their way of life.

Settle in for the evening and gaze upon the spectacular desert sunset as you feast on a Bedouin BBQ dinner, before returning to your Hurghada hotel.

Schedule

Departure Point: Tour departs from most Hurghada hotels
Departure Time: 1:00pm
Return Details: Tour returns to original point of departure at approximately 9:00pm

For additional information and bookings GO HERE!

The tour was interesting from start to finish. The drive out to the Bedouin camp is about an hour off-road through the desert. We stopped halfway for picture taking. Once out at the camp, we were met with coffee and dates. We saw bread being baked in the sand, took a camel ride, and toured some of the community buildings of the camp. The most memorable part came next – a walk through the desert along a dried-up river bed and down a little hill to see the place where the Bedouins get their water. The tour guide stopped to explain many things along the way – the plants, the rocks. Back at the camp, we ate dinner, which tasted very good, and the atmosphere was very nice. The Bedouins then sang a song, and we left. On the way back, we stopped in the middle of the desert to get out and see the stars. The experience was unforgettable.

Reviewed by: C J, United States of America

COMPARE AND BOOK FROM 125+ HOTEL DEALS IN HURGHADA, EGYPT – HERE!

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Sri Lanka

SriLankan Holidays enhances efficiency with new HolidayWiz booking system

SriLankan Holidays, the award-winning leisure arm of SriLankan Airlines, will begin a new chapter in its impressive history with the commissioning of its fully automated reservation system HolidayWiz on 1st October.

Winner of the coveted title of Best Outbound Tour Operator in Sri Lanka at the last Presidential Travel & Tourism Awards, SriLankan Holidays has targeted significant improvements in its efficiency and performance over the next year to cater to both inbound and outbound travel.

Amith Sumanapala, General Manager SriLankan Holidays, said: “We at SriLankan Holidays are not content with winning one national award, and are introducing many more exciting packages for both outbound and inbound customers.”

The system, which has been newly developed by Reservations Gateway Inc, will enhance the ease of operations by SriLankan Holidays’ network of partners which include franchise operators, travel agents, hotels, and tour operators. Its real-time service and integration with existing systems will allow partners rapid access to SriLankan Holidays’ inventory and booking systems.

“SriLankan Holidays has many more value additions planned for the near future to make our customers’ experience ever more delightful, and to enhance the ease of operations for all our partners. The introduction of this system is a major step and significant investment that strengthens the commitment of the National Carrier towards the leisure market into and out of Sri Lanka. Phase I of the project introduced the new system for the home base markets as the initial step,” said Sumanapala.

Mesfin W. Eyob, President / CEO , Reservations Gateway Inc, said: “We are delighted to enter into this new partnership with SriLankan Airlines, which we are certain will be of significant benefit to the customers of SriLankan Holidays. Although Reservations

Thanks: The Island