Africa

British Airways returns to Morocco
Morocco has been an increasingly popular destination in recent years for Brits who enjoy the wide choice of luxurious riads and hotels available, particularly in Marrakech and Essaouira, and also for those who have been investing in a riad of their own, such as actress Stephanie Beacham, who has a property on the Atlantic coast (bookable though Fleewinter).

The Grand Mauritian launches 'Intimate Wedding' package
To celebrate the January 2011 launch of the over-water wedding chapel, The Grand Mauritian, a Luxury Collection Resort and Spa, has introduced an all encompassing wedding package, named ‘Intimate Wedding’, which has been designed to provide couples with exceptional value for money for their big day, without compromising on style and luxury.

First Choice’s top five hot destinations for 2011
As Britain gets to grips with the big freeze, our thoughts turn to sunnier climes and where we can go in search of some much needed sunshine.

Escape the January blues at Port Ghalib Red Sea
If you’re looking for a holiday after the 2010 festivities then Port Ghalib Red Sea, Egypt offers the perfect holiday escape this winter. The luxury five star deluxe InterContinental The Palace Port Ghalib Resort is offering couples the ultimate romantic retreat, a welcome escape from the January blues.

Sofitel launches luxury hotels in Vienna, Mauritius & Cambodia
This week, Sofitel celebrates the opening of three new hotels around the world: Sofitel Vienna Stephansdom (Austria), Sofitel So Mauritius (Mauritius) and Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra (Cambodia).
Be the first to see new species of Lemur
Wildlife lovers were delighted to hear the news this week that a new species of lemur has been discovered in the lush forests of Madagascar.

New luxury spa opens in Marrakech
Es Saadi Gardens & Resort in Marrakech has just opened the brand new Es Saadi Palace Spa on 1st December 2010.
Continental Airlines approved for Lagos service
Continental Airlines announced today that the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority has approved the airline’s application to offer for sale its planned service between Houston and Lagos, Nigeria.

Must do 2011 destinations from Acacia Africa
Adventurers looking for the inside track on Africa might want to quiz Acacia Africa, as the tour operator has just compiled its list of conservation, bargain and crowd free safari hot spots for 2011.
A first for Kempinski in Zanzibar
Located in Kiwengwa, on the prestigious North East coast of Zanzibar, Zamani Zanzibar Kempinski will relaunch in early 2011 as Zamani Retreat Kempinski - Africa's first holistic health retreat, and a first for Kempinski.

Turn winter into summer with a 'hot' city hotel break
As we prepare for the coldest week of the year, with temperatures expected to drop to a frightfully cold -20°C, our friends south of the equator are donning their sunglasses and sun tan lotion as summer begins.

New luxury suites open at historic Cape Winelands farm
Babylonstoren, a 240-hectare working wine and fruit farm in the Drakenstein Valley, in the heart of the Cape Winelands, opens its doors to guests this week. It is offered through Bridge & Wickers' new Africa programme.
Tucan Travel announces discounted Africa tours
Travellers can now end the year where it all began, and get an amazing 25% off end of year Africa tours.

BOGOF diving offers in the Red Sea
Beginners can take advantage of one of two offers on the PADI Open Water Course, the world's most recognised dive certification. The course is available on a Buy One Get One Free basis in Hurghada, with the award-winning Divers' Lodge (£225) and at perennial favourite Sharm el Sheikh, with the renowned Red Sea Diving College (£239).

Beasts and beach in magnificent Mozambique
If safari and beach combinations are the ultimate African holiday, then this must be the perfect combination...