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Soup Strainer
Are you cultivating a moustache for Movember? It’s worth remembering what it’s all about – looking after your health and checking for early signs of male cancer. Naturally we don’t want to make the less hirsute brides feel left out…
New research released today by Orchid, the male cancer charity, has found that 50% of men would feel more comfortable if their partner checked their testicles for the signs and symptoms of testicular cancer, instead of their GP. Despite this statistic, 62% of men admit that their partner never carries out these vital checks. The survey of 1,000 men aged 16-45 also found that 36% of men admit that embarrassment stops them seeing their GP for a testicle check-up, which highlights how important it is for women to be proactive in checking their man’s testicles.
HIS HEALTH IN YOUR HANDS
In light of this new research, Orchid will be continuing ‘His Health In Your Hands’ campaign for the coming year, which calls on women to be proactive in encouraging their man to be aware of the signs and symptoms of the three male specific cancers – testicular, penile and prostate – so they can seek advice as early as possible.
If you would like to direct your future wife to the site so you can prove you’re not just being cheeky, or you’d like more information about Orchid and how you can help fight male cancer visit their website www.orchid-cancer.org.uk.
So Much To See…
However did Phileas Fogg (or cartoon lion Willy Fogg, for the purists) see the world in 80 days? When it comes to your honeymoon, unless you have a very understanding boss, chances are you won’t even have 8 days – a statistic that has led to the rise of the “mini-moon”; a much shorter break, typically closer to home. But if you want to see the world (or at least part of it) you can take in much of what a country has to offer in 10 days or less, according to World Expeditions.
1. WHERE: VIETNAM
HOW LONG: 7 days
Set in the cool mountains of Vietnam’s northwest, Sapa became a favourite amongst the French colonialists seeking to escape the heat. Enjoy true rural hospitality, follow secluded trails, experience an overnight train journey and explore the busy Old Quarter of Hanoi.
BOOK IT: World Expeditions’ 7-day Sapa Trek departs daily year round, from £650 per person.
2. WHERE: TANZANIA
HOW LONG: 8 days
An up, close and personal African safari trip that presents countless captivating moments to savour. Explore the renowned parks of Tanzania with numerous game drives and visit incredible sites such as the world famous Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater.
BOOK IT: World Expeditions’ 8-day Northern Tanzania Circuit departs on 22 December 2011, with further departures scheduled in 2012, from £1,690 per person.
3. WHERE: BHUTAN
HOW LONG: 8 days
A comprehensive journey through the remote and culturally rich kingdom Bhutan, taking in the iconic Taktsang Monastery, the sights and sounds of capital Thimphu and a drive across the Dochu La Pass to explore the isolated yet beautiful Gangtey Valley.
BOOK IT: World Expeditions’ 8-day Essence of Bhutan departs daily from September to May, from £1,250 per person.
WHERE: JAPAN
HOW LONG: 8 days
Stunning coastlines, rolling mountain scenery, World Heritage National Parks and a rich cultural heritage: team this with an exquisite cuisine and hot springs to soak in after a stunning day’s ride and you see why Hokkaido is one of Japan’s most idyllic destinations.
BOOK IT: World Expeditions’ 8-day Secrets of Hokkaido by bike has five departures from June-September 2012, from £1,990 per person.
WHERE: NAMIBIA
HOW LONG: 10 days
Game viewing in Etosha National Park, cultural interaction with a Himba tribe, rock art at Twyfelfontien and visits to the Skeleton Coast and the Namib Desert: just some of the highlights of this encompassing itinerary in stunning Namibia!
BOOK IT: World Expeditions’ Namibian Explorer departs every Tuesday until March 2012 (every Friday from April 2012), from £990 per person.
WHERE: FROM EGYPT TO JORDAN
HOW LONG: 8 days
Step into the rich historical legacy of Pharaonic Egypt’s pyramids before journeying into the Sinai and the land of the Bedouins. In Jordan, tour the dramatic Wadi Rum by jeep, explore the iconic monuments of Petra and have a swim in the world famous Dead Sea!
BOOK IT: World Expeditions’ 8-day Pyramids to Petra departs on 4 December 2011, with further departures scheduled in 2012, from £990 per person.
WHERE: ANTARCTICA
HOW LONG: 10 days
Follow in the footsteps of the great heroes of the Antarctic history as you set sail from the tip of South America, accompanied by expert naturalists. With the most dramatic scenery and biggest variety of wildlife, Antarctica is all about discovery and exploration.
BOOK IT: World Expeditions’ 10-day Discover Antarctica departs on 1 January and 20 March 2012, from $5,290 (£3,299) per person.
WHERE: CHINA
HOW LONG: 10 days
Trek along a remote section of the Great Wall, one of the greatest wonders of the world, away from the crowds. Take in the vast and diverse scenery, savour true rural Chinese hospitality and complete the experience in Beijing visiting the historic Forbidden City.
BOOK IT: World Expeditions’ 10-day Great Wall Trek has six departures from May-October 2012, from £1,150 per person.
WHERE: ECUADOR
HOW LONG: 7 days
This jam-packed trip is an ideal introduction to Ecuador. In addition to the bustling capital of Quito and the colourful Indian markets of Otavalo, it incorporates the volcanic spine of Ecuador, the sensational Cotopaxi National Park and the famous Devil’s Nose Train.
BOOK IT: World Expeditions’ 7-day Ecuador Experience departs every day except Thursday year round, from £1,050 per person.
WHERE: NEPAL
HOW LONG: 8 days
From the vibrant capital of Kathmandu and the stunning sunset and sunrise in Dhulikhel to Pokhara, the gateway to the Annapurna region, and the wildlife safari at Chitwan National Park, this trip is a balanced mix of relaxation and marvellous mountain views.BOOK IT: World Expeditions’ 9-day Nepal Discovery departs on 16 December 2011, with further departures scheduled in 2012, from £890 per person.
For more information and bookings please visit www.worldexpeditions.co.uk or call 0800 0744 135. World Expeditions’ all-inclusive policy ensures there are no local payments. Prices do not include international flights, however these can be arranged on request.
So Much To Do…
“I like a tropical paradise as much as the next man, but will there be much to do apart from sunbathe?”
The twin island paradise of Antigua and Barbuda will celebrate 30 years of independence on 1 November 2011. To commemorate each year of this special anniversary thirty of the Islands’ best deals and experiences are listed below, from great value holidays to once in a life time adventures and much more.
1. LEARN TO SAIL IN STYLE
Nonsuch Bay Resort offers specialist sailing facilities, expert instructors and outstanding conditions for small boat sailing. Rates at Nonsuch Bay start from £545 per person for a week self catering in a two bedroom apartment, including sailing. www.nonsuchbayresort.com.
2. CURTAIN BLUFF AUTUMN SPECIAL OFFER
British Airways Holidays offer seven nights from £2379 per person, for travel November 13 – December 8, 2011. Includes return flights from Gatwick, all-inclusive accommodation and one free night per seven night stay, based on two sharing. Visit ba.com/antigua or call 0844 4930758 .
3. THE CURTAIN BLUFF TENNIS CHALLENGE
Join former American Davis Cupper Dick Stockton and others for a fun-filled week of tennis clinics, guest doubles, pro-am play and social fun – and relaxation from 6to 13 November 2011. www.curtainbluff.com.
4. PARTY IN ANTIGUA THIS NEW YEAR’S EVE
Enjoy 7 nights all inclusive in a Deluxe Room at Sugar Ridge, Antigua, from £2,699 per person including an amazing 20% discount on accommodation and all inclusive meals and drinks, private transfers and international flights from London. www.sugaridgeantigua.com.
5. TENNIS WEEK WITH JEREMY BATES
Play with tennis pro Jeremy Bates at Carlisle Bay’s Tennis Week. Packages from £2645pp including return flights from London Gatwick with British Airways and private transfers. Save £820pp. Valid 13 – 19 November 2011. Book by 08 November 2011. Carrier: 0161 492 1354 , www.carrier.co.uk.
6. BLUE WATERS NEW SPA
An essential addition to the established Blue Waters Resort, The Spa at Blue Waters. Book by 15December 2011 and receive US$90.00 per room per night discount, in any room type, on stays from 7 January to 23April 2012. www.bluewaters.net.
7. ANTIGUA TENNIS WEEK, MAY 5 TO 12, 2012
Hosted by tennis legends Fred Stolle and Owen Davidson. The week is made up of prize tournaments, pro-doubles exhibitions, plus stroke and strategy clinics. www.curtainbluff.com.
8. CARNIVAL ANTIGUAN STYLE
Antigua Carnival starts its celebrations on 28 July 2012 and runs through until 7 August 2012. This Antiguan celebration of life and culture is one of the Caribbean’s most anticipated events.
9. MANGO MADNESS
Mangofest, August 2012. Fruit lovers, and most importantly Mango Lovers are in for a treat when they visit Christian Valley for this two day event. www.antiguamangofest.com.
10. GET WITH THE GROOVE
DeJam Festival, 21 – 28 September 2012. Beach parties, catamaran cruises, club discos and gala dinners, this week-long party in Antigua just gets better and better. www.dejamfestival.com.
11. CARNIVAL OF CRICKET
The 2nd Annual 20/20 International Masters Cricket Fest with day and night matches will take place from 16 to 20 November 2011. Entry is free for all spectators. www.richierichsportsandleisure.com.
12. ENJOY A CARIBBEAN CHRISTMAS
Guests staying at Hawksbill by rex resorts in Antigua will be treated to the sight of Santa Claus arriving at the resort by boat to give out presents to all the children waiting at the beach this year, a memory to treasure! www.resresorts.com.
13. A-LIST ANTIGUA
The islands are an ‘A-list’ favourite attracting celebrities including Paul McCartney, Thandie Newton, Davina McCall, Mariah Carey, Will Smith and Usher. Oprah Winfrey, declared the island her favourite beach holiday spot.
14. INDIAN TOWN NATIONAL PARK
Devil’s Bridge, a large, natural limestone arch on the shoreline of Indian Town Point, offers one of the most spectacular sights on the island.
15. NEW MINI-GOLF
Experience Antigua’s first ever mini golf at The Verandah Resort and Spa. www.verandahresortandspa.com
16. STAY SOMEWHERE SPECIAL
Experiences Galley Bay’s Gauguin cottages, unique to the resort and perfect for a romantic getaway. www.galleybayresort.com.
17. STORY TIME
St James’ Club’s new series of storytelling events for 2012 with Puffin offer the perfect family holiday. If you can’t wait for next year, summer rates now apply for stays between 1 – 30 November 2011 plus stay seven nights and pay for five including breakfast and dinner. www.stjamesclubandhotel.co.uk.
18. FIG TREE DRIVE
Antigua’s most picturesque drive meanders from the low central plain of the island up into the ancient volcanic hills of the Parish of Saint Mary in the island’s southwest quarter.
19. GO SILLY FOR SEAFOOD
The Urlings Seafood Festival takes place every year in August and offers families the chance to enjoy a relaxing day out. Entertainment includes a fishing competition for the children, boat rides around Carlisle Bay and a Mango eating competition.
20. LEARN FROM THE LOCALS
Nicole’s Table offers Caribbean “twist” cooking classes, and to ensure you get the true Antiguan experience Nicole conducts these unique lessons from her own home, which overlooks the Caribbean Sea.
21. SPICE UP YOUR LIFE
It is almost impossible to visit Antigua and Barbuda without being introduced to the nation’s favourite sauce, Susie’s Hot Sauce, and once you’ve been introduced to this Caribbean delicacy there is no going back. www.susieshotsauce.com.
22. HAVE A HISTORY LESSON
The Museum of Antigua and Barbuda is a charming museum tells the story of Antigua and Barbuda from its geological birth through to the present day.
23. GET INTIMATE IN ANTIGUA
Antigua’s Very Intimate Places (VIP)are perfectfor those seeking a slice of authentic Antigua. VIP members are a selection of Antiguan owned or managed unique boutique properties, guest homes and inns. www.antigua-vip.com.
24. TAKE A DIVE
A 23-metre rock dive that’s suitable for novices, the Pillars of Hercules in Antigua is so named because of the limestone formations in the cliff above the site. Expect to come face to face with sergeant majors, blue tang and snappers.
25. BARBUDA’S BEAUTIFUL BIRDS
Antigua’s sister island, Barbuda, is home to the largest Frigate Bird Sanctuary in the world. Visit these colourful birds in their natural habitat and you might just spot some rare species in amongst the more than 5,000 Frigate birds that call Barbuda their home.
26. FLY THROUGH THE SKY
One way to get an amazing view of Antigua’s rainforest is to bite the bullet and go on the greatest adventure ride in the heart of the rainforest, zip lining. This activity is for the brave at heart as lines start from 53 feet up to 328 feet. www.antiguarainforest.com.
27. TAKE A STEP BACK IN TIME
English Harbour, Antigua’s graceful and evocative historic district, is focused on the fifteen square miles of Nelson’s Dockyard National Park. Today Nelson’s Dockyard has been completely restored, and it is now the only Georgian dockyard in the world.
28. ANTIGUA SAILING WEEK
Taking place from 29 April to 4 May 2012, over 1,500 competitors including Olympic and Americas Cup sailors take part in five days of thrilling yacht racing around the tropical island. www.sailingweek.com.
29. A BEACH FOR EVERY DAY OF THE YEAR
Enjoy Antigua and Barbuda’s 365 beaches. The islands offer beaches for everybody from families to couples, sun worshippers to adrenaline junkies.
30. PINK SAND
Experience Barbuda’s unique pink sand beaches whilst enjoying the local delicacy of spiny lobster. www.visitantiguabarbuda.co.uk.
For further destination information, go to: www.visitantiguabarbuda.co.uk or call the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority on 01245 707 471 .
So Little Time
40% of honeymoons are booked by the groom with no input from the bride whatsoever, and now booking your perfect honeymoon has never been easier or faster, thanks to your old pal Staggered. We’ve partnered with the award-winning ABTA and ATOL-registered experts Honeymoons Please to bring you some dream destinations for very decent prices. Just tell us where you want to go and when.
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