The Latitudes Hotels are centrally located in some of France’s top ski resorts including Arc 1800, Val D’Isère and Courchevel. All offer ski-in, ski-out facilities and many feature swimming pools and spa facilities.

All prices quoted are for a double room, sleeping up to two adults, for seven nights and do not include flights or transfers. The offers are valid on bookings made up to seven days before arrival. For more information, please visit: http://www.pv-holidays.com or call 0870 026 7144.

Hôtel Latitudes L’Aigle des Neiges, Val D’Isère
£1,601 (previously £2,134) per room for seven nights in a double room – saving £533

Located in the centre of the old village and just a few steps from the ski slopes, the completely renovated L’Aigle des Neiges offers spacious and comfortable rooms. The property also houses a health spa, lounge area and two fine dining restaurants. For more information, please visit: http://www.pv-holidays.com/scripts/fiche_produit.php?id_ofr=176&id_sai_passe=1&date=2009-03-04&duree=7&code=IZHW2

Hôtel Latitudes du Golf, Courchevel
£1,346 (previously £1,795) per room for seven nights in a double room – saving £449

Located at the foot of the slopes, Courchevel’s Hôtel du Golf sits at the heart of the ski resort, with direct access to the ski school meeting points and the childcare centre. All bedrooms have impressive views of either the slopes or the valley and there is also a restaurant, brasserie, pub and health spa on site. For more information, please visit: http://www.pv-holidays.com/scripts/fiche_produit.php?id_ofr=437&id_sai_passe=1&date=2009-03-04&duree=7&code=GCHC2V

Hôtel Latitudes du Golf, Arc 1800
£1,172 (previously £1,563) per room for seven nights in a double room – saving £391
Located in the resort centre and at the foot of the slopes, the recently refurbished Hôtel du Golf boasts large, spacious rooms offering panoramic views over the valley. On site is a selection of bars and restaurants, an indoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi and a brand new health spa. For further details, please visit:

http://www.pv-holidays.com/scripts/fiche_produit.php?id_ofr=83&id_sai_passe=1&date=2009-03-04&duree=7&code=GFGW2S

Hôtel Latitudes Les Bruyères, Les Menuires
£951 (previously £1,339) per room for seven nights in a twin room – saving £388

Hôtel Latitudes Les Bruyères is located just 10 metres away from the ski lifts and is right next to the shops, restaurants and activities of Les Menuires. The comfortable south-facing bedrooms all boast exceptional views and feature a balcony. The property also features a restaurant and bar area, as well as an outdoor heated swimming pool. For further information, please visit: http://www.pv-holidays.com/scripts/fiche_produit.php?id_ofr=437&id_sai_passe=1&date=2009-03-04&duree=7&code=GCHC2V

For more last minute ski deals from P&V please visit: http://www.pv-holidays.com/os/ski-deals/last-minute-ski-holidays-france

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About P&V

P&V (also known as Pierre & Vacances or PV-Holidays) is the number one provider of holiday residences, villages and hotels all over France. It offers self-catering and hotel holidays in France, Spain, Italy, Morocco, Tunisia, Switzerland and the Caribbean through its five brands: Pierre & Vacances, Maeva, Residences MGM, Latitudes Hotels and Adagio City Aparthotel.

Further information

For further consumer information on P&V, please visit: www.pv-holidays.com or telephone: 0870 026 7144.

Visit the P&V blog at http://blog.pv-holidays.com.

For further trade enquiries, please go on http://trade.pv-holidays.com or telephone 01273 560475.

For media information and images, please contact Susie Tempest or Jenny Groutage at The Saltmarsh Partnership on 020 7928 1600 or email susie/jenny@saltmarshpr.co.uk.

Those travelling with The Adventure Company will find budgeting for a summer getaway easier since family trips are only scheduled during school holidays, with a wide range of inclusions in the price such as meals, activities and local payments.

Families can also take advantage of a special offer where the second child goes half price on selected trips. This offer is available when booked on a land-only (flight exclusive) basis, although the Adventure Company can organise flights too. Travel must completed by 30th September 2009, so this offer is great for the Summer school holidays.

For more information visit http://www.adventurecompany.co.uk/special-offers.aspx

To help make the family holiday decision even easier, The Adventure Company has calculated its top five value-for-money family trips for summer 2009. These are:

1. Active Turkey Family Holidays for Teenagers, 8-day trip

Why is it value for money? Turkey is outside the Eurozone, so the British pound stretches further when in the country. Activities covered in the price of this trip include a two-night gulet cruise, sea kayaking, a trip to the coastal town of Kas, diving and snorkelling. All accommodation, transportation, breakfasts, four lunches and two dinners are also included. There is also the opportunity to explore inland on a mountain bike, travel by four-wheel drive off the beaten track or just relax on one of the many beaches.

When? The trip has several departures in May, July and August 2009 with flight-inclusive prices starting from £679 per person (valid on departure 28th August – 4th September 2009). The total cost for a family of four would be from £2,716.

For more information visit http://www.adventurecompany.co.uk/trip-details.aspx?productid=77150 or call 0845 609 0890.

2. Active Pyrenees, Andorra, 8-day trip

Why is it value for money? This is the best value trip within the Eurozone since it includes all breakfasts and dinners, one lunch and activities on five days. The activities included are exploring the Siscarro Lakes and Incles Valley by foot, a four-wheel drive off road trip following an old smugglers route, white water rafting and mountain biking to Engolasters Lake for a traditional barbecue. Families booking this trip before 24th April 2009 will also receive a discount on the price for their second child (50 per cent off the land only price).

When? Flight-inclusive prices start from £729 per adult or child (valid on departure 19th – 26th July 2009). The total cost for a family of four taking advantage of the half price child place would be from £1,956 excluding flights.

For more information visit http://www.adventurecompany.co.uk/trip-details.aspx?productid=33032 or call 0845 609 0890.

3. Croatian River Adventure Family Holiday, 8-day trip

Why is it value for money? Again, Croatia is outside the Eurozone and this trip includes all breakfasts, dinners and two lunches as well as activities on five days. Activities include white water rafting on the Dobra River, sea kayaking on the Croatian Coast, canoeing on the Mreznica River, a bike tour through villages in the area and the opportunity to visit Zagreb – the cultural and political capital of Croatia.

When? Flight-inclusive prices start from £819 per adult and £749 per child (valid on departure 21st – 28th August 2009). The total cost for a family of four would be from £3,136.

For more information visit http://www.adventurecompany.co.uk/trip-details.aspx?productid=132185 or call 0845 609 0890.

4. Active in the Med, Malta, 8-day trip

Why is it value for money? All breakfasts are included as well as activities on five days. Families will take a boat trip to the neighbouring island of Gozo to explore by bike and jeep; followed by a boat excursion to Comino Island with time to snorkel in the Mediterranean sea. Other included activities are a sightseeing tour of Victoria – the capital of Gozo – and a visit Anchor Bay which was used in a 1979 film to create Sweethaven – the hometown of Popeye. This trip is also included in the second child travels half-price promotion if booked before 24th April 2009.

When? Flight-inclusive prices start from £849 per adult and £719 per child (valid on departure 25th July – 1st August 2009). The total cost for a family of four taking advantage of the half price child place would be from £1,976 excluding flights.

For more information visit http://www.adventurecompany.co.uk/trip-details.aspx?productid=132180 or call 0845 609 0890.

5. Turquoise Coast, Turkey, 8-day trip

Why is it value for money? A treasure hunt in the rural mountain retreat of Karaagac; a glass bottomed boat trip to discover the sunken city of Kekova; a four wheel drive trip to the countryside and villages surrounding Kas; an overnight gulet trip and the opportunity to explore Dalyan and visit old Lycian tombs are all included in this trip price, along with all breakfasts, four lunches and two dinners.

When? Flight-inclusive prices start from £789 per adult and £789 per child (valid on departure 21st – 28th August 2009). The total cost for a family of four would be from £3,156.

For more information visit http://www.adventurecompany.co.uk/trip-details.aspx?productid=33643 or call 0845 609 0890.

The Adventure Company recommends booking early for these family summer trips to take advantage of special offers and because there are only limited spaces.

For more information and reservations visit www.adventurecompany.co.uk or call 0845 609 0890.

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For more information contact Kate Popham or Kylie Jenkins at The Saltmarahs Partnership on 020 7928 1600 or email kate@saltmarshpr.co.uk or kylie@saltmarshpr.co.uk

Visit The Adventure Company’s online press office for archived press releases and images: www.adventurecompany.co.uk/press-office.aspx

It is generally assumed that over 50s by definition are better off financially than the younger generation, with fewer financial commitments and no dependents therefore able to ride out the current financial hiatus. As an over 50s insurance specialist the majority of Staysure’s client base are senior citizens, therefore sales figures serve as an accurate barometer for this particular sector of the market.

Regular travellers are fully aware of the advantage of choosing annual travel insurance as opposed to covering each trip with an individual single policy but savings will only be realised if taking more than two trips throughout the year. Staysure can confirm that this generation not only has the means but also the inclination to continue travelling throughout 2009. Sales of annual multi-trip travel insurance policies in December 2008 saw 300% increase on the number of policies sold in December 2007.

Staysure’s increase in sales is not purely down to accident or client demographics. It is the correct mix of quality products, value for money prices and the ability to accommodate all ages, covering pre-existing illnesses for no extra cost up to age 80 and specialist medical travel cover for clients with more than one serious medical condition or aged between 80 and 85 years.

Olivia Skeen, Staysure’s marketing manager stated “Staysure customers have reached the age when they want to enjoy life and take advantage of the travel opportunities that weren’t available when they were younger. The credit crunch hasn’t stopped them spending, but they are spending sensibly, which is why Staysure’s sales are continuing to increase. Staysure are a safe pair of hands, providing quality and value for money.

For further information about Staysure travel insurance, holiday home insurance or holiday money visit www.staysure.co.uk.

Grand Hotel Reykjavik is a first class hotel and a leading Reykjavik conference centre, ideal for business visitors, conference guests and discerning tourists. The attractive newly built tower offers 209 of the hotel’s 314 rooms.

Accommodation at the four-star Grand Hotel is of the highest standard: clean, comfortable and uncomplicated, with all the expected amenities, including safe, bath, wireless internet and satellite television.

With 24-hour room service, the laundry and dry cleaning service, as well as the comfortable furnishings and satellite TV; guests will feel very comfortable in their rooms.

The Grand Hotel Reykjavik also boasts an excellent restaurant, where hotel guests enjoy a ten percent discount. The Brasserie Grand offers superb international and Icelandic cuisine – a real treat whether for a four course meal, or simply a quick bite.

Reykjavik Hotels owns the Grand Hotel Reykjavik, which has stunning views and is situated next to the city’s biggest recreation area – home to the zoo, ice rink, national stadium and botanical gardens, among others.

Reykjavik Hotels is a respected group of three of Reykjavik’s best-known hotels; each with unique character and style, but operated to the best international standards.

Grand Hotel Reykjavik also has the accolade of being among Iceland’s biggest conference venues. With 14 conference rooms seating 6 to 450 people, Grand Hotel can cater for almost any conference or event.

Whether staying in Iceland for work or pleasure, guests always appreciate the superb Grand Spa, opened in November 2007. The exclusive spa fitness centre has trainers on hand to help at every turn; and the spa area itself includes sauna, steam bath and Jacuzzi, with the option of professional massage a constant temptation. As hotel guests get discounted entry to the Grand Spa, the temptation usually proves irresistible.

For further information on the Grand Hotel Reykjavik, or to book conferences or accommodation, visit www.grand.is

Luckily I have some ingenious friends – or should I say friends with burglar alarmed wallets – who always know where the best deals are to be had. These people have actually had me waiting out on the dockside at six in the morning waiting to “save money on fish”. It’s sensible practice of course, but still it takes a special type of person.

In this instance though, they did me proud. Reykjavik Rent a Car is a small Iceland car rental company which I would probably never have heard about on my own.

Not only does Reykjavik Rent a Car offer brand new heavy duty 4x4s for less than some of their bigger rivals offer a Volkswagen Polo, but they are also genuinely decent people with whom it was a pleasure to do business.

Having secured the car for a few days, it was time to put it through its paces. My sister was visiting Iceland from Brazil, where she works with Amazon River Dolphins in some conservation programme. Not a lot of snow in Brazil.

My sister is mad about skiing, and she was almost scarily excited about coming over here and trying out the Blafjoll ski slopes near Reykjavik. But the Icelandic weather rarely plays ball, and had decided that we were not to be blessed with snow.

This is where Reykjavik Rent a Car came in: we decided to drive around Iceland to the far north-western town of Isafjordur – a place where the snowy mountains demand to be noticed almost as much as Bjork wearing a swan and screaming “It’s oh so quiet!” at the top of her voice. We were sure there would be snow on the slopes up there.

Driving Iceland’s Westfjords in the winter is a hair-raising experience. The gravel roads are generally covered in a thick layer of ice as they navigate hairpin turns and sheer cliff drops. The views are spectacular and a confident driver in a trustworthy vehicle can really have a LOT of fun. Anybody else would surely suffer some sort of panic attack.

It is perhaps telling of my lack of skiing ability that this story should have focused so heavily on the journey up there – but we did find plenty of snow and my sister did get her fill of the piste before heading back to the sweaty tropics. Mission accomplished – thanks to Reykjavik Rent a Car.

For more information or to book a low price rental car in Iceland, visit www.reykjavikrentacar.is

Bookings to both Nepal and Morocco are almost 10 per cent ahead of the same time last year, showing that active travellers are the most determined to stride on with their holiday plans says the company.

Trekking trips to the Mera Peak Trek in Nepal and Winter Toubkal in Morocco are currently the best sellers.

‘More people than ever are travelling to Nepal and nearly 500 have already booked trips for 2009, proving that unique long haul destinations are not being ruled out despite the economic situation at the moment.’ says Nicky MacFarlane, product director from The Adventure Company

‘We have found from customer feedback that our trekking holidays are exceptional value for money, due to their relatively low costs and all inclusive nature.’

The Mera Peak is the highest trekking peak in Nepal and the most challenging; the 17-day climb through the mountain wilderness provides trekkers with stunning views of the surrounding Himalaya. During the 23-day trip travellers will explore the bazaars and exotic temples of Kathmandu, fly to Lukla – the gateway to the Everest region before beginning the hike to the Mera Peak summit. With limited departures during 2009 places on this hike are being booked up fast.

Alternatively conquer North Africa’s highest peak – Jebel Toubkal during the winter with the use of crampons and ice axes. Climbing Toubkal during the winter provides and extra challenge to trekkers, not only will they have to master ice axes and crampons but will also have to acclimatise to the high altitude and the low temperatures. During the eight-day trip travellers will have the opportunity to explore Marrakech before embarking on the trek to the summit.

The Adventure Company also organises trips to some of the most iconic peaks across the globe including Mount Kenya, Mount Kilimanjaro and Everest base camp.

A dedicated online trekking brochure is now available at http://edition2a.intellimag.com/?id=advcomwalkingtrekking0910

For more information about The Adventure Company visit www.adventurecompany.co.uk or call 0845 609 0889.

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For further information contact Kate Popham or Kylie Jenkins at The Saltmarsh Partnership on 020 7928 1600 or email kate@saltmarshpr.co.uk or kylie@saltmarshpr.co.uk

“The popularity of South America has grown hugely in the past few years, making it the most-booked region in our Worldwide Adventures brochure” comments Claire Wilson, Managing Director “In 2009, we are predicting the ‘Darwin effect’ will encourage more visitors to Ecuador and could see the Galapagos Islands join Machu Picchu at the top of the continent’s ‘must-visit’ list.”

The Galapagos Islands are likely to benefit from increased exposure in 2009, celebrating two important anniversaries for Charles Darwin. As well as the 200th anniversary of his birth, 2009 is also the 150th anniversary of the publication of his seminal work, On the Origin of Species. Additionally, 2009 marks 50 years since the creation of the Galapagos National Park, Darwin’s most famous research destination, while Ecuador will also celebrate the Bicentennial of its Independence with a year of cultural and artistic activities planned in Quito.

If you wish to experience the Galapagos Islands for yourself the Adventure Company has six adventure trips for adult travellers and families. Including two new trips – Ecuador & The Galapagos in its Family Adventures brochure and The Galapagos in its Worldwide Adventures brochure.

In addition, the company has introduced a Galapagos Extension on seven of its other South American trips, allowing travellers to combine the islands with other classic sights such as Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca and the Amazon rainforest.

Now, as it was in Darwin’s time, visitors to the Galapagos Islands largely explore the region by boat. The Adventure Company’s tours use a range of vessels from live-aboard sailing yachts to first-class cruise boats. The company also offers a land-based option for families on its Galapagos & Amazon trip, where the islands can be explored on foot from small hotels on various islands.

The Galapagos Islands offer excellent opportunities for wildlife encounters, with chances to spot dolphins, sea turtles, sea lions, iguanas and numerous bird species, including blue footed boobies. Other attractions include the Charles Darwin Research Station and hiking up the island’s volcanoes for panoramic views of the Galapagos archipelago.

As an example of prices, The Adventure Company’s 13-day Galapagos Islands trip starts from £2,479 plus US $200 local payment per person for departures in 2009. This price includes flights, accommodation, some meals (11 breakfasts, six lunches, seven dinners) plus the services of an experienced local guide.

The two-week Family Adventure Galapagos & Amazon starts from £2,199 per child and £2,449 per adult (no local payment) in 2009, with the best prices available in the school summer holidays. Further departures are available in the Easter and Christmas school holidays.

For more information on The Adventure Company’s selection of Galapagos Island tours, see www.adventurecompany.co.uk or telephone The Adventure Company on 0845 609 0889.

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For media information and images, please contact Kate Popham / Kylie Jenkins at The Saltmarsh Partnership on 020 7928 1600 or email kylie@saltmarshpr.co.uk

For an archive of past press releases, please visit The Adventure Company’s online press office at www.adventurecompany.co.uk/press-office.aspx

It is widely known that Iceland offers amazing sites and natural wonders visited mainly in summer. Not so many tourists however think about exploring this northern island in winter when the spectacular waterfalls, glaciers or geyser take on a whole new appearance.

Visitors can now book their cars with 15 percent reduction on prices for reservations of seven days or more.

The cars are equipped with all gear necessary for travelling in winter conditions, slippery roads and off road terrain. Besides that, customers are offered additional extras such as GPS navigation, child seats or fuel cans.

Reykjavik Rent a Car offers high performance cars such as Ford, Jeep or BMW – cars that inspire a feeling of security in the middle of nowhere. Travellers will feel safe on slippery roads as well as riding on a layer of snow.

Apart from 4×4 cars, Reykjavik Rent a Car also offers small environmentally friendlier cars for easy transportation in cities, which qualify for free parking places in Reykjavik because of their low emissions.

The company can either pick customers up at Keflavik International Airport or deliver the selected car to hotels in Reykjavik.

For more information visit the company website at www.reykjavikrentacar.is.

The Glaciers are open – contrary to the word on the streets! “I heard the glaciers are closing down because of the rain,” is something the Icelandic Mountain Guides often hear. And it is true of course: Global Warming as well as the rain will without doubt put an end to many glaciers on the earth some time in the future. But that is some centuries away … at least one!

The most successful Icelandic Mountain Guides glacier walks are operated throughout the whole year. Furthermore, during rain showers or soon after a heavy rain on the glacier it gets its deep blue crystal like appearance that glaciers are so well known for; but which cannot be described in mere words.

“Just three times over the past two months have we had to cancel these most popular walks to the glacier tong of Solheimajokull because of high winds. But some rain showers are only in our favour!” one of the mountain guides jokes.

As the glaciers are melting, it is clear there may only be a century or two left to come to Iceland and see them. And with the rate of the Icelandic krona seemingly melting like a glacier in Florida, now might just be the time.

After being known to many as one of the most expensive destinations in Northern Europe Iceland became one of the most affordable destinations overnight. This means not only the beer is cheaper but also everything Iceland is best known for i.e. pristine nature and adventure comparable to none.

Now when it’s about 40 percent cheaper to stay in one of the top hotels in Reykjavik it is much more appealing for visitors to do something they’ll never forget.

According to the website of The Evening Standard in UK, “Experts are expecting a mini-tourist boom to the Northern Lights, Blue Lagoon and glaciers in the wake of massively reduced prices.”

But this might not last for long, so if you’ve been in doubt… don’t hesitate and let the Icelandic Mountain Guides lead you through some of the most thrilling destinations in Iceland. www.mountainguides.is

A car hire company in Iceland has slashed its rates by around two-thirds in time for the winter season.

Reykjavik Rent a Car is offering large 4×4 vehicles, such as the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Ford Explorer, for as little as 8,900 ISK ($76, £46, €58) per day. This is a reduction of just under 70%, down from the summer rate of 24,900 ISK ($206, £132, €164).

The hire car company’s Smart Car now costs 3,900 ISK per day ($32, £21, €26). The environmentally-friendly car is eligible for free parking in Reykjavik because of its low fuel consumption and low CO2 emissions.
Reykjavik Rent a Car specialises in high performance cars such as BMW, Mercedes, Jeep and Ford; all available with automatic gearboxes and bigger engine power which is often needed in the remote rural areas of Iceland.

All hire cars are equipped with a range of useful extras often needed in rural Iceland, such as GPS navigation, roof boxes, fuel cans, child seats and other accessories.

The company offers to pick their customers up at Keflavik International Airport or deliver to any Reykjavik hotel.

Visit the company website for more information on cheap car hire in Reykjavik.

PV-Holidays will have its own booth at the Maison de la France stand (EM420) and is inviting potential clients and partners to meet with them, without an appointment, on Wednesday 12th and Thursday 13th November to discuss future business ventures.

PV-Holidays’ appearance at World Travel Market comes at an exciting time for the company as it has just celebrated its 40th birthday and continues to develop its offerings in many major European cities. So far this year for example, PV-Holiday’s Adagio brand has opened four new city aparthotels in Strasbourg, Basel, Annecy and Paris. Listed on the French Stock market, the company has an annual turnover of €1.4 billion and welcomes over 6.6 million guests through its portfolio of properties annually.

The operator, also known as Pierre et Vacances, aims to build its brand and customer base in the UK, positioning itself as the leading provider of self-catering holidays to France and the Mediterranean. The vast range includes everything from simple two star budget apartments to multi-activity holiday villages and four star luxury hotels in some of Europe’s finest cities.

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Further information

For further consumer information on PV-Holidays, please visit: www.pv-holidays.com or telephone: 0870 026 7144.

For further trade enquiries, please go on http://trade.pv-holidays.com or telephone 01273 560475.

For media information and images, please contact Susie Tempest or Jenny Groutage at The Saltmarsh Partnership on 020 7928 1600 or email susie/jenny@saltmarshpr.co.uk

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Blue Mountain is a fully licensed travel agency and a premium motorcycle tour company in Iceland.

The company offers guided motorcycle tours around Iceland, where the main focus is always on the customer. The company’s standards are set to meet the highest of expectations and to guarantee a unique experience in every way possible.

The beautiful country of Iceland, with its extraordinary nature and active volcanoes, raging rivers, large glaciers, magnificent mountains and great waterfalls always in sight, is the ideal place for the biker to experience the adventure of a lifetime. Travelling around Iceland gives the opportunity to enjoy the warmth of the Icelandic people who are always welcoming towards foreigners and willing to share their heritage and culture while. At the same time, Blue Mountain tours offer an unsurpassed view of the unique surroundings of Icelandic nature.

Blue Mountain tours in Iceland feature new BMW motorcycles, which are equipped with side luggage cases, heated grips and GPS upon request. The BMW F650 GS motorcycles on offer have a history of being trustworthy and easy to handle motorcycles.

In addition to organised day and multi-day tours, Blue Mountain also provides guides for motorcyclists visiting Iceland with their own bikes.

Blue Mountain was founded in 2006 by Sverrir Thorsteinsson and his wife, Herdis. The main purpose of the company is to serve the increased demand for motorcycle adventure tours around Iceland. The company’s vision is straightforward and clear: Make each day in Iceland a pure adventure experience and make sure that everyone who visits will have a great time and go home safely and with a smile on their face.

For further information or to book a motorcycle tour of Iceland, please visit www.bluemountain.is