exploring the underwater museum

It took archaeologists nearly three decades to excavate the harbour and what they found was a modern port for its time making other ports such as Rome, Alexandria and Piraeus, look small and out-of-date.

Suitable for the beginner and experienced diver, you have a choice of four trails that together cover a distance of 87,000 sq yards. Don’t worry if you’re under water navigation isn’t up to scrathc because each site is posted with a number directing you from one to another. And armed with an underwater-proof map, you can read all about the ruins and admire each one in pure silence (well, apart from sound of your bubbles). And for you non-divers out there, don’t get too upset because there’s even a snorkeling trail for you too.

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The Mahneh Yehuda is Jerusalem’s famous open-air market that sells anything and everything under the sun: from fresh fruits and baklava, to menorahs and traditional barber shops.

fruit being sold in shuk ha’carmel

Off Tel Aviv’s beach promenade, wander off into Shuk Ha’Carmel after rolling in the sun. Start of your market adventure with a helping of delicious Turkish Burekas, what us Brits would call a samosa, where you can have you choice of filling from cheese to mince meat to vegetarian. Having whet your appetite, you’re set for the afternoon haggling for the all important souvenirs. If you’re looking for more excitement, head across the city to Nahalat Binyamin Market where you’ll not only find hand made Israeli arts and crafts but a street performers galore, from musicians to jugglers.

Further afield from Tel Aviv city centre is the Netanya Market. This is the perfect market for serious food lovers out there: walking through will be a feast for your eyes and belly and you’ll be smelling the most exotic aromas. You’ll pass spice stores influenced by Libyan and Tunisian immigrants, black bread from the Russian immigrants and even influences of the French with boulangeries and charcuteries.

the famous druze pita bread being sold at the market

And finally, a must-visit one in our books is the Daliat El-Carmel Market located within the Druze Village high up on the slopes of Mount Carmel. Here you’ll find hand made intricate craftwork from rugs to rucksacks that are bright and adorned with jewels. And don’t forget to tuck into some delicious Druze dishes including the famous Druze pita bread.

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Sophie’s pick: A Room with a View, by E.M Forster

summary
An Edwardian social comedy that explores love and prim propriety amongst an eccentric cast of characters. The setting begins in Venice, Italy, where we follow a young English woman, Lucy, who’s left in a state of confusion whilst staying at the Penisone Bertolini as she experiences feelings for an unsuitable Englishman.

a room with a view

Back in England, Lucy is sought after a more acceptable gentleman and it is here begin to see Lucy grow and learn of the importance of expressing passion honestly.

why this is my travel fuel
Not only does this book give a fantastic insight into the stark difference between Italy and England but, more importantly, it highlights the powerful force of travel and how, at its best, it can be a life altering experience – after all, the beauty of travel is to allow a place to get under one’s skin. And this is why a Room With a View is my travel fuel. It reminds me that travel is not always about getting the best experience of visiting a country, but sometimes it’s a way of viewing where I came from in a different perspective.

travel the book

Let us turn the words into reality. We can tailor make a trip to bring the magic of Venice to life and allow you to experience many of the highlights of the book.

You can buy A Room with a View here.

Click here for more Black Tomato book reviews

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Time to escape your city slicker lifestyle? Head for the hills where the fresh air of the Scottish highlands will breath life back into you. Don your Hunter boots, flat cap and anything tweed (Kilt-wearing not essential, but why not?), and immerse yourself deep within the historic Scottish countryside for four indulgent nights. Whether you’re looking for that great hideaway or simply want the perfect lay-by between jumping continents, Iverlochy Castle is the one. Aye.

ride in luxury; inverlochy's resident rollsroyce

Your luxurious escape starts as soon as you arrive in the United Kingdom. You have a choice of either being chauffeured from Edinburgh airport by Rolls Royce or, if you’re short for time, jump into Inverlochy’s own helicopter for a brief transfer to the Castle.

a luxurious castle

Nestled in the foothills of the mighty Ben Nevis Mountain, Inverlochy Castle sits in the most tranquil of locations with rolling green hills, emerald lochs and stretches of pristine farmland. Matching its surroundings are the castle interiors: stark contrasts of colours, rich fabrics, and elaborate period pieces which easily make you feel like you’re on the set of Pride & Prejudice.

the lavish decor of the bedroom

Each of the castle’s 17 bedrooms are lavishly and individually decorated with gorgeous ensuite bathrooms and stunning views to match.

The Castle was built in 1863 by the first Lord Abinger and until 1969, it had remain a private residence. It has had a string of important guest stay within its walls, including her Majesty Queen Victoria who spent a week at the Castle sketching and painting the grounds and famously writing in her diary that she ‘never saw a lovelier or more romantic spot’. We couldn’t agree more.

frolic in the countryside

fishing on the loch

The beauty with this countryside retreat is that you can make your stay as relaxing or active as you want. Lounge in the sitting room catching up with some reading, jump into the resident Rolls Royce to explore nearby towns or engage yourself in chic countryside activities. From clay pigeon shooting and fly fishing to horse riding, there is an endless list to keep you busy. If you’re looking for something more extreme why not have a go battling the rivers of Scotland whilst whitewater rafting, wrestling mud by 4×4 on an off-road driving experience or face the challenge of climbing Ben Nevis Mountain, the tallest in the United Kingdom.

retire to the drawing room

scottish oats and haggis

If you think because you’re in Scotland all you’ll be eating is Scottish oats and haggis, think again. Dinning at Inverlochy is an absolute treat, it does after all have a Michelin star and three AA red Rosettes. Gin poached loin of venison anyone? Whilst you sit in the prestigious dining room, not only will you dine like a king, but you’ll feel like one too surrounded by period furniture gifted by the Royal family of Norway. And what better way to end your Inverlochy experience than retiring to the drawing room with a glass of smooth Scottish whiskey next to the crackling fire? Perfect.

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chill out by the devi pool

description

This luxury all-suite hotel has a strong emphasis on design and detail. Built using local marble and semi-precious stones, the contemporary, whitewashed design is combined with a strong sense of heritage. With a wellness spa, landscaped grounds and impeccable service, this is our favourite converted palace in India.

location

Only 45 minutes from Udaipur, Devi Garh is a situated in the Aravali hills, surrounded by lush green fields overlooking the village of Delwara.

the beautiful room

your room

We love the expanses of marble in Devi Garh;s 39 suites. The design is utterly unique, mixing traditionally rich designs with simple contemporary twists. Expect clean lines, minimalist spaces and masses of glamour.

The 39 suites in this boutique hotel are totally unique and authentic guaranteeing you a very special and intimate stay. Each of the suites are decorated beautifully with marble and semi precious gems. The interior of every suite has been selected with a view towards glamour, elegance and functionality.

lounge about in devi

why we like it

We love the private dining rooms at Devi Garh –chose from as rustic to as opulent as you like to create an incredibly intimate dinner. One unmissable experience is simply sipping a fine wine on the rooftop while enjoying the picturesque views over the Aravalli Hills.

back to Rajasthan old and new

have a look at...

1. kumarakom lake resort
2. raas, jodhpur
3. mihir garh, rajasthan

mihir stylish interiors

description

This intimate boutique hotel on the edge of the desert has nine suites, allowing you to have a private and exquisite time. The ancient and traditional methods of building with mud are balanced elegantly by contemporary interiors and modern touches.

location

Dramatically lying on a sand mound on the edge of the desert, Mihir Garh Fort is located in a desert wilderness south of Jodhpur. Mihir Gahr means ‘sun fortress’, and has been the traditional way: with wattle, mud and wood.

your gorgeous bedroom

your room

Each incredibly spacious and airy suite contains a large bathroom with separate bathtubs and showers. The ground floor suites have private courtyards and plunge pools, and the first floor suites have private terraces to enjoy the unspoilt and enchanting desert vistas. All rooms have large plasma TVs, DVD players, Wifi and air conditioning.

why we like it

Mihir Garh is owned by one of the keenest horsemen in Rajasthan, making it an ideal base for riding beautiful Marwari horses. The hotel provides fantastic horseback safaris through the desert allowing you to race into the wilderness, and really get a feel of the culture as well as meeting some of the charming, hospitable locals.

back to Rajasthan old and new

have a look at...

1. kumarakom lake resort
2. raas, jodhpur
3. mihir garh, rajasthan

relax by the pool

description

Being the only luxury hotel in Jodhpur’s old city, Raas is not only uniquely located at the base of the impressive Meherangarh fort, it is also a modern-day design masterpiece. The hotel, which opened in late 2009, oozes sophistication, style and elegance, not to mention the breathtaking views and authentic atmosphere.

location

Lying at the foot of the colossal Meherangarth Fort, Raas is right in the heart of Jodhpur’s walled city. Just seconds away from the vibrant markets and city’s attractions but far enough away to feel completely at peace, this design-focused boutique hotel has a lot to boast about.

your room

your bedroom

The 39 rooms and suites at Raas have been cleverly designed using both original and new buildings, guaranteeing you a completely unique experience. Think cream stone walls and arches, soft cream sofas, twinkling lanterns, wooden beams, a lot of open spaces, glass and earthy tones. We love that each room has its own private balcony with stunning views of the looming fort, complete with relaxation chairs for admiring the fiery sunset.

why we like it

We love the character of this hotel: every room reflects some kind of story, history or legend. It’s not every day that you hop on a tuk tuk to leave your hotel – let alone one painted in the local Jodhpur blue.

back to rajasthan old and new

have a look at...

1. kumarakom lake resort
2. raas, jodhpur
3. mihir garh, rajasthan

If you never thought the words ‘luxury’ and barge’ went together, think again. Spend an idyllic long weekend in romantic Dijon on a modern, super luxurious, 8-person barge, soaking in the best of picturesque France (no boating experience required).

your luxury barge

This is barging at it’s best, miles away from rainy-days-in-Norfolk. Enjoy top notch cuisine and quality local wines, while meandering along France’s most beautiful canal.

Your four-day itinerary will take you from the limestone cliffs and fairytale villages of the Valley of the Ouche on Friday, to the wine capital of the Cote d’Or on Monday. Wake up to warm village-baked pastries on board, and spend the days visiting local markets, tasting wine in historic chateaux and hopping on the barge’s bikes to explore the stunning French countryside (wine-consumption depending). Expert guides, top quality wines, gourmet food and super-stylish accommodation all add up to make this break a lot of fun.

inside your home on the water

glide through dijon’s wine region
After being collected from Dijon airport any time on a Friday afternoon, you’ll be chauffered to the barge in Fleury-sur-Ouche, a classic village nestled on the Canal de Bourgogne, and settle in to your luxury surroundings. Spend the first night as you mean to go on: indulging in a slap-up meal at a local restaurant recommended by our in-the-know guides. All your wine tasting and excursions over the next three nights and four days are included in the cost, so all you have to do is sit back, sip the vino and soak up the sun-dappled views. Bliss.

Float past limestone cliffs in the unhurried and authentic Valley of the Ouche, visit the dramatic village and chateau of Chateauneuf-en-Auxois perched high on a hill, explore it’s cobbled streets, peek into private gardens, and tour the haunting chateau.

the castle in Chateauneuf-en-Auxois

You’ll stop at wine presses to learn the intricate wine-making process (and sip some more), and visit chateaus where monks originally picked and fermented the grapes in the 12th Century. After long lunches (with exquisite vintages to compliment, naturellement) chose to relax on deck, take a stroll, or explore the local area by bicycle.

On the Sunday you’ll take an afternoon cruise through gorgeous scenery to La Bussiere-sur-Ouche, where the village will bring you back in time: think whitewashed brick walls and terracotta tiled roves. The Grand Finale of your trip will be on the Monday, at the enchanting Beaune: wine capital of the Cote d’Or.

explore by bicycle

Here, the immaculately preserved Hospice de Beaune, a historical and stunning building now a museum of the art, religion and wine of the local area. Truely fascinating.

the long weekend with a difference
Talk about making the most of your time off. This trip involves only being away from your desk on a Friday and Monday, giving you a break long and atmospheric enough to truely indulge and forget the daily grind. Love wining, boating and serious relaxation? What more could you ask for?

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We’ve all lived vicariously through our screens when it comes to Vegas, from casino heists to crime scene investigations. It’s now time you visit the set and do Vegas with this ultimate weekend getaway with a bit of a twist.

When you touch down in Vegas you’ll be whisked away to the renowned Caesar’s Palace Hotel. Located in the heart of the famous strip, you’ll be surrounded by glitzy lights, dazzlingly casinos and vibrant nightlife, it isn’t called ‘Sin City’ for nothing. From pools to casinos, Caesar’s truly is a palace.

casino royale

Relax in the award winning Qua spa, indulge in a spot of people watching out by the pool and of course, how could you not resist hitting the casino floor? With everything from high limit slots to table games, Caesar’s casino is bustling 24/7. If you think ‘poker face’ is just a song by Lady Gaga you could probably do with a lesson in the basics with a private gaming lesson. After you’ve mastered the basics, head over to the Poker Room to see high rollers battle it out.

las vegas strip

No stay in Vegas would be complete without dinner and an evening show, so on your first night we’ll arrange for you to take dinner at an award-winning restaurant before catching your pick of the best shows in town. There’s nothing quite like the spectacle of a Vegas show: the stages are some of the most technologically advanced in the world delivering great music, lights and action, and the costumes are truly one-of-a-kind. Trust us, you’ll be singing and dancing along before you even know it.

neon graveyard

vintage lights at the neon museum

There’s much more to the bright lights of Vegas than ‘the Strip’. If you want to see a different side to ‘Sin City’ we can arrange a visit for you to the Neon Museum where all the vintage neon signs of Vegas have been laid to rest. You’ll be able to walk around and take pictures of these ancient relics (yes some are more than 30 years old!) which have been painstakingly restored and will take you through a different chapter of Vegas history.

mojave desert at sunset

room with a view

Next it’s time to get acquainted with the Mojave Desert. Donning a helmet and goggles, you’ll rip through the desert on a quad bike, kicking up trails of dust and whizzing through the canyons avoiding prickly cacti. When you’ve explored to your heart’s content, you’ll swap your quad bike for a proper chopper and fly off for a helicopter ride into the sunset. With flat terracotta-red desert contrasting against the clear blue skies, you won’t easily forget the views over desert. As you hover in your helicopter be sure to bring your camera to capture the moment before heading back to glistening lights of Vegas.

shop till you drop

On your last day in Vegas why not indulge yourself in a bit of shopping at The Forum? This is an experience in itself and with over 160 boutiques to spoil yourself in you may not know where to start. Panic not, armed with your own personal shopper who knows the shops like the back of their hand, you’ll bypass the crowds and head straight for your favourite stores. And be sure to pick up something for your colleagues at work: there’s nothing quite like a bit of Vegas envy when you get back.

*flight cost is based on UK flights from Heathrow and US flights from NYC.

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Amanda’s pick: A town like Alice, by Neville Shute

summary

This tale follows a young woman’s remarkable ventures through Mayala as a prisoner of war in World War Two, and then in Outback Australia post-war. It is written from the perspective of her trustee in London, whose rather solitary and routine Chancery Lane life contrasts markedly to the exuberance of spirit and entrepreneurial passion with which Jean Paget embraces her experiences abroad, and which enable her to rise up through the hardships she encounters along the way.

a town like alice

It is both a love story, and a war story. It depicts both the horror and the wonder of far off remote places, and gives a real sense of true exploration - in an age where travel of this sort (particularly for a woman) was far from the norm, and where therefore absolute belief in oneself was essential. But most of all it is about hope and the power a person has to make change.

why this is my travel fuel

Not only is this novel, for me, the most fabulous reminder of the sheer vastness of Australia and its raw, remote outback – somewhere I crave to return -, but it provides incredible inspiration for making your own adventures in life, and seeing ‘the real place’. Courage and absolute faith in humanity shine through in this novel in the most wonderful way. Jean never gives up, exudes life and energy, and engages with the people she meets with such interest and empathy, that she becomes a genuine part of the fabric in what start out as foreign worlds. Travel should be more than simply ‘visiting’ places, but about engaging with them – the people, the culture, the history. This book fuels a desire to get out there and do it, follow your heart, and grab opportunities with all the energy you have. And for me was a gentle reminder of the simple but fundamental adage – the more you put in, the more you get out.

travel the book

Let us turn the words into reality. We can tailor make a trip to bring the magic of Australia to life and allow you to experience many of the highlights of the book.

You can buy a Town called Alice here.

Click here for more Black Tomato book reviews.

have a look at...

1. a sense of the world
2. shantaram
3. blood river