Crisis? What Crisis?

Before you know it Christmas will be a distant memory and thousands of people will be looking forward to their 2009 escapes. However, the onset of recession means some travellers are fearful for their holiday plans.

Leading escorted tour operator Travelsphere (travelsphere.co.uk) has consulted its tour guides and has developed top tips for holidaymakers on how to enjoy a holiday in 2009, without breaking the bank.

“UK holidaymakers still have a wide choice of affordable options available to them in 2009. They just need a helping hand in deciding where to go and how to travel affordably.” says Caroline Jack, Head of Media and PR, Travelsphere.

“Travelsphere tour guides are renowned for their destination knowledge and have provided us with a list of hints and tips on how to enjoy a holiday next year.”

“Travelling beyond the Euro-zone, enjoying a UK break and taking advantage of weakening currencies are just a few of the suggestions. All-inclusive cruises also offer a handy solution for those travellers who wish to visit destinations further afield, such as the US, without suffering from the unfavourable exchange rate.”

Below are just a few of Travelsphere’s recession-beating tips:

South Africa
Take advantage of the South African Rand's falling exchange rate and discover the country’s stunning scenery and spectacular wildlife. Framed by the shimmering blues of the Atlantic Ocean and the majestic Table Mountain, the Cape Peninsula is truly stunning. Enjoy a panorama of vine-covered valleys, dramatic cliffs, golden sand beaches and winding rivers of the Garden Route. Meet the ancient tribes of Zululand and Swaziland before experiencing the animal kingdom at Kruger National Park.

Prices start from £1,899 per person and this includes flights from London Heathrow to Cape Town returning from Johannesburg, eight nights’ accommodation on a bed & breakfast basis, five nights’ accommodation on a half-board basis, excursions, transfers and the services of a Travelsphere tour manager. Departs January, February, March, April, May, June, July, September, October and November 2009.

Beyond the Euro-zone - North Cyprus
Break away from the Euro-zone and the strengthening Euro and take advantage of the favourable Turkish Lyria on this superb eight-day walking holiday exploring North Cyprus. An area of unspoilt natural beauty, where fine sandy beaches are lapped by the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean, backed by steep pine-clad slopes, North Cyprus is the ideal destination for an outstanding walking holiday. Highlights include three escorted walks, visits to Kyrenia Castle, Buffavento Castle, Famagusta, the Karpas Penninsula (Panhandle) and Nicosia.

Prices start from £669 per person and this includes return flights from London Heathrow or London Luton to Larnaca, seven nights’ accommodation on a half-board basis, walks with a local guide, transfers and the services of a Travelsphere tour manager. Departs January, March, May and September 2009.

Home Sweet Home
Leave exchange rate worries behind and join Travelsphere on this six-day trip to explore the unspoilt scenery and superb sunsets in one of the most beautiful locations in the British Isles – The Isles of Scilly. Enjoying a mild climate along with a tranquil lifestyle, the islands are a paradise for walkers, with wonderful scenery, glorious wild flowers and beguiling wildlife to discover.

Prices start from £599 per person and this includes return flights from Newquay or Bristol to St Mary’s, five nights’ accommodation on a half-board basis, walks with a local guide and transfers. Departs April, May, June, July, August, October and November 2009.

The all-inclusive American dream
If a visit to the US has always been a dream but the weakening pound against the dollar is turning it into an expensive option, step onboard an all-inclusive cruise with Travelsphere and enjoy 14 days sailing the ocean waves.

Combining the glamour of New York with the charms of New England and a visit to Quebec this wonderful cruise and stay holiday offers the best that North America has to offer. With two nights in the ‘Big Apple’, there will be plenty of time to sample the delights of this remarkable city before boarding NCL’s Norwegian Jewel. Expensive meals out will not be a problem on this all-inclusive, unforgettable cruise along the beautiful New England coast, including a full day in the remarkable city of Quebec.

Prices start from £1,295 per person and this includes return flights from London Heathrow to New York, two nights accommodation in new York on a room only basis, ten nights accommodation onboard the Norwegian Jewel on a full-board basis, transfers, excursions and the services of a Travelsphere tour manager. Departs September and October 2009.

As an ABTA member and ATOL licence holder, Travelsphere guarantees that come what may its customers’ money and holidays are fully protected.

For further information and brochures, log on to Travelsphere.co.uk.