In The Press.....

ELVIS!

Presley spent his first 13 years over the state line in Mississippi – some of it in the two-room “shotgun house” in Tupelo where he was born on January 8 1935. The property is now preserved as a museum (elvispresleybirthplace.com) that includes extra elements of Elvis’s childhood, including the church where he was exposed to gospel music. An appealing bronze statue shows him as a 13-year-old in overalls, heading off to Memphis.

How to do it: The nine-day “Greatest Hits of the South” road trip sold by Bon Voyage (0800 316 3012; bon-voyage.co.uk) stops off in Tupelo. From £1,995 per person (including flights). 

Solo Adventures for the over 55's - as featured in The Telegraph March 2022

The line-up on this adventures includes the 'Big Three' cities of Nashville, Memphis and New Orleans. When it comes to hospitality, there's is no need to feel like you're travelling alone in these friendly Southern towns. Here the music and fellow tourists will keep you company - the Deep South is renowned for this.

Plus, there is no driving, so you can truly sit back and soak up the scenery.  A chauffeured transfer will take you from Nashville to Memphis.  Between Memphis and New Orleans, you'll watch the landscape change from cotton fields to swampland aboard the City of New Orleans train before arriving in the birthplace of jazz 

The Telegraph - 'The Greatest Holidays of All Time' Feature March 2022

California is sure to welcome and wow you with it's great diversity and our California Family Adventure certainly has the X-Factor!

To make the most of your time in The Golden State contact the USA experts at Bon Voyage on 0800 316 3012, or click here for more California holiday ideas. 
   

The Times Top 100 Holidays for '22! 

Bahamas holiday offer with TATLER - Jan 2022.

Set in impossibly crystal clear, azure seas the Islands of the Bahamas lie around 200 miles south east of Miami. Made up of 700 islands, some busy and bustling, some isolated and inhabited only by hermit crabs and seagulls, the Bahamas offers an alluring mix of land and sea activities, with some of the best beaches on Earth.

Perched on stunning Cable Beach, in the Bahamas capital, Nassau, the 5-star SLS Baha Mar is a tropical sanctuary that infuses the Caribbean with SLS's signature spirit of sensuality and glamour. Sleek rooms with sea views, five restaurants, a palatial Spa, and Nassau’s only rooftop bar beckon you at this luxury resort. And, if that’s not enough check out the Jack Nicklaus designed golf-course and the Baha Bay Beach Club’s infinity pools, cabanas, relaxing hammocks and poolside lounge.

Save up to £499 pp for selected dates in May and June 2022, with prices starting at £1995pp to include British Airways direct flights to Nassau and seven nights in a superior king at the 5-star SLS Baha Mar. Call our team of experts on (0800) 316 0194 for further details. Click here for information on holidays to the Islands of the Bahamas.      

Book now for Nashville’s 4th of July ‘Let Freedom Sing’ festivities with Bon Voyage

As the birthplace of bluegrass and the hometown of country, Nashville rightly deserves its moniker of Music City. In addition to headline attractions such as the Country Music Hall of Fame, a Nashville city break shines for its repertoire of live music experiences, be they sell out concerts at Ryman Auditorium or more intimate performances in a local honkytonk.

One of the most anticipated events in Nashville's cultural calendar is Let Freedom Sing , a free-to-attend concert held each July to celebrate Independence Day. This year's event is set to be bigger and better than ever before, with Grammy-winning artists and a record-breaking firework display taking over Downtown Nashville on Monday 4th July.

Acts already confirmed to perform include Nashville native Gramps Morgan (whose sound mixes reggae with soul and country influences); Platinum-certified singer/songwriter Cassadee Pope; and the legendary Nashville Symphony.

Music lovers keen to experience Let Freedom Sing should book well in advance because Nashville hotels sell out for the event. Bon Voyage, the North America travel specialist, can package flights and seven nights (on room-only basis) at Hutton Hotel - a boutique property in Downtown Nashville's lively West End, convenient for the Let Freedom Sing festivities - from £1,633pp, departing the UK on 1 July, 2022. Call 0800 316 3012 for more information or reservations.

Relive the Gilded Age on a New England fly-drive with Bon Voyage

The Gilded Age - the smash hit period drama written by Downton Abbey's Julian Fellowes - airs its season finale on 21 March. The series has won a legion of fans for its lavish depiction of high society during New York's Gilded Age in the late 1800s.

Fans of the show can get their own taste of the high life by visiting the genteel town of Newport, Rhode Island, where many of the era's wealthiest New York and Philadelphia residents kept holiday homes to which they would decamp for the summer season. Some were styled on royal palaces; others were modelled on French chateaux; but all were settings for lavish parties and (if the show is to be believed) dalliances and intrigue.

Many of these wonderfully opulent mansions still stand today. The Preservation Society of Newport has purchased 11 of them and thrown their doors open for the public to admire their glorious alabaster, polished wood, and marble interiors. At 70 rooms, The Breakers is perhaps the most famous of all, but Marble House (once owned by the Vanderbilts) and Rosecliff also merit inspection.

Celebrate the return of Nashville's CMA festival with Bon Voyage 

After being cancelled for the last two years on account of the pandemic, the famously musical city of Nashville is gearing up to host the 2022 iteration of its signature CMA (Country Music Association) Music Festival. As one of the most popular events in the city's busy cultural calendar, the CMA sees country music's top performers gather for four days of boot-scootin' concerts and star-studded events. Its popularity means that tickets tend to sell out way in advance - often within days of going on sale - so booking ahead is essential if fans don't want to miss out on the action.

Held annually in early June (this year's event kicks off on Thursday 9 June), the festival is considered one of the USA's hottest live music events. Tickets combined into holiday packages are now on sale with North America travel specialist Bon Voyage, which is one of only a handful of operators to offer CMA packages. Country-loving cowboys and girls can book their festival tickets along with flights, accommodation and benefits such as assigned seating at headline events and admission to Fan Fair X, where attendees get to meet-and-greet their country music icons.

As Bon Voyage's holiday packages are fully tailor-made, festivalgoers can extend their musical journeys to visit Memphis, New Orleans, Dolly Parton's Dollywood or even get away from it all with a few days in a Smoky Mountains log cabin.

Bon Voyage particularly recommends combining the CMA Music Festival with its Best of the Deep South self-drive itinerary, which follows a semi-circular route from Atlanta to Nashville and beyond to lively Memphis and New Orleans. Highlights along the way (all sticking to the musical theme) include the famous Chattanooga Choo Choo; the Songbirds Guitar Museum (home of country, rock and blues performances); Dolly Parton's hometown of Sevierville; Elvis Presley's palatial Graceland mansion; and a Mississippi jazz cruise to get you rollin' on the river.

Canada rolls back travel restrictions, boosting post-pandemic holidays

In anticipation of pent-up demand in the wake of two years of being off-limits, North American specialist Bon Voyage has created an all-new Canada itinerary that takes in the best of British Columbia's cities, coast and wilderness.

Starting with an urban escape in cosmopolitan Vancouver (with plenty of time to explore Stanley Park or the food stalls of Granville Island's market), the journey continues by ferry across the Strait of Georgia to Victoria, BC's charming provincial capital. As well as being the gateway to stunning Vancouver Island, it's also a handy jumping-off point for whale-watching excursions to seek the pods of orca that inhabit these coastal waters.

There's more wildlife to be encountered at Clayoquot Sound, further north on Vancouver Island, where black bears forage the low-tide shoreline to feast on crabs and kelp. Keep eyes peeled too for otters, bald eagles, blue herons and harbour porpoises, then stroll Long Beach to pick up shells and pieces of driftwood as souvenirs.

A real highlight awaits back on the mainland with a stay at Sonora Resort: a Relais & Chateaux Wilderness Resort that's only accessible by sea plane or boat. Set right on a pristine waterfront and surrounded by emerald-green forest, it's a fantastically high-end retreat for fully immersing in nature's marvels. By day, it's all about searching for grizzly bears on boat-trip excursions, while evenings can be spent, cocktail in hand, gazing up at the star-filled sky. It's a truly fantastic experience to savour before heading back to Vancouver.

The 9-night, tailor-made Whales, Bears & Vancouver Island itinerary costs from £3,135pp and includes flights, car hire, accommodation, ferry transfers and wildlife excursions Zodiac. For more information and to book, call 0800 316 0194 

Discover America's Pacific Northwest with all-new, non-stop flights to Portland this summer

New York may be famous as the city that never sleeps, but it doesn’t have a monopoly on nightlife, culture, shopping, and art. Over on America’s west coast, a wealth of attractions spanning independent shops, microbreweries, public artworks, and the great outdoors make Portland, Oregon one of the nation’s most interesting cities to visit.

Famously quirky and counterculture, this offbeat city is at its best in summer - so the launch of British Airways' new, non-stop flights from London Heathrow is perfectly timed. Operating five days a week from 3 June 2022 (dropping to a once-a-week service in winter), the flights open up the prospect of fun, convenient and out-of-the-ordinary trips filled with all the highlights of progressive Portland and wider Oregon state.

In terms of culture, Portland punches way above its weight. The city offers over 120 museums of which Portland Art Museum takes pride of place for its collection of Native American art and public sculpture garden. As for performance arts, a Portland city break might include opera, symphony, indie, jazz or pop concerts, the cultural calendar spans dozens of festivals. Even shopping is a cultural event thanks to so many creative craftspeople and artisans whose one-of-a-kind, made-in-Portland wares can be purchased in independent shops and boutiques. One not-to-be-missed shop is Powell’s City of Books - the world’s largest independent bookstore - while on summer weekends, it's all about Portland Saturday Market: its 250-odd stalls make this the largest arts and crafts fair in the States.

When it's time to stretch your legs, Portland has no fewer than 288 public parks and green spaces, ranging in size from the world’s smallest park to a 5,000-acre “urban wilderness”. Rose-filled Washington Park appeals for its Hoyt Arboretum and magical Japanese Garden; or wander into adjoining Forest Park - a vast, green lung that's six times larger than New York’s Central Park. Its towering, age-old redwood trees are attractions in themselves and harbour wildlife such as beavers, elk and over 100 species of birds.

Bon Voyage, the North America travel specialist, suggests pairing a Portland city break with other Pacific Coast highlights. The company's tailor-made, 14-night Explore Oregon to Hells and Back self-drive itinerary starts with two nights in Portland before moving on down the coastal highway via charming seaside towns that offer whale-watching, craft breweries and epic ocean views. On the Rogue River, try rafting or kayaking before stopping for dinner on the waterfront at Klamath Falls, then carry on via Crater Lake National Park and scenic Hells Canyon National Recreational Area. The route loops back towards Portland past the Columbia River Gorge and an overnight stay in Willamette Valley to experience Oregon's winelands.

This 14-night adventure costs from £2,395pp, including flights, car hire and quality hotel accommodation. For further information and to book, call 0800 316 0194.

'50 Best Adventures for 2020' as featured in the Daily Telegraph

Be More Dolly ...as featured in Prima January 2022

Channel your inner Dolly here whilst sipping a cocktail, in its kitsch, pink, girly surroundings with its commanding views over the twinkling lights of Music City, USA. 

Seek a cultural fix in Seattle, whose signature landmark - Space Needle - turns 60 in 2022

New York may claim the title of the city that never sleeps, but it doesn’t have a monopoly on nightlife, culture and the arts. Over in the Pacific Northwest, a wealth of theatres, museums, concert halls and architectural icons make Seattle, Washington one of America's foremost cultural hubs. Liberal and progressive, with a youthful, friendly, outward-looking vibe, Seattle is renowned for being contemporary, quirky and fun - traits that come together in its skyline's key landmark, Space Needle. Built for the 1962 World’s Fair (whose theme was “The Age of Space”), the tower’s futuristic design was inspired by humanity’s Space Age aspirations and has been the city's symbol ever since.

This year sees Space Needle celebrate its 60th anniversary of dominating Seattle's cityscape. Visitors can follow in the footsteps of famous names including Elvis Presley, John Wayne, Neil Armstrong and Walt Disney (who were hosted at the tower during the expo) by taking trip up to the observation tower's “top house”. Taking in its panoramic views is a Seattle essential: the scene encompasses Mount Rainier, Puget Sound and the lofty Olympic mountains, and don't forget to look down through the glass floor to see Seattle at your feet.

Find a further cultural hit next door to Space Needle at Chihuly Garden and Glass, a collection of colourful creations by one of the art world's biggest names. Washington-born Dale Chihuly's blown glass has brought him international acclaim, so it's no surprise that his own museum's displays are visually arresting. The museum is celebrating its own 10th anniversary in 2022, so expect a visit here to be even more special.

North America specialist Bon Voyage suggests pairing a Seattle city break with a road-trip to Olympic National Park and beyond into neighbouring Oregon. Highlights include scenic Lake Quinault, historic Astoria and Crater Lake National Park before hitting quirky Portland and looping back to Seattle via Mount Rainer. The 14-night holiday costs from £2,205pp and includes flights, car hire and accommodation (room only). For more information and to book, call 0800 316 0194 or visit www.bon-voyage.co.uk .

Sunday Times Travel Section December 2021 - Christmas In Vermont

If you fancy dashing through the snow on a one-horse open sleigh, stay at the Trapp Family Lodge in Vermont. This Austrian-style mountain resort overlooking Stowe is the home of the Von Trapps of Sound of Music fame, and sleigh rides through the surrounding woods and fields cost just £30pp. A week on a room-only basis at the 4 star lodge with a sleigh ride starts at £1,625pp, including from flights Heathrow to Burlington, Vermont.

History of the Trapp Family Lodge.

In the early 1940s, the von Trapp family toured the United States as the Trapp Family Singers before eventually settling in Stowe, Vermont, on an enchanted farm with sweeping mountain vistas reminiscent of their beloved Austria. In the summer of 1950, they began welcoming guests to a rustic, 27-room family home/lodge. After a devastating fire in 1980, the original structure was replaced by the new Trapp Family Lodge, a striking, 96-room alpine lodge situated on 2,500 acres offering magnificent indoor and outdoor resort amenities. The entire property is owned and operated by the von Trapp family, and their beloved Maria is buried in the grounds.

To include this unique stay as part of your tailor-made holiday to the USA, contact our team of experts on (0800) 316 0194. 

Explore North America Car-Free with Bon Voyage

America may be the country that brought us freeways and mass-produced motor cars, but although the car is king in the States it's not always essential to get around in one. For those road-trippers not keen, not able or not willing to drive themselves, North America specialist Bon Voyage has introduced a selection of car-free itineraries that allow independent travellers to explore without getting behind the wheel or joining an organised tour.

Making use of all modes of transport - from trains and riverboats to private car transfers, domestic flights and touring by cruise ship or coach - Bon Voyage's drive-free holidays provide all the freedom of independent exploring with none of the responsibility of navigating or finding a parking space.

A particularly appealing example is the 11-day Heritage to Honky Tonk itinerary by air, rail, private car and Mississippi steamer. Costing from £2,595pp, this trip takes in the Deep South's 'Big Three' cities of Nashville, Memphis and New Orleans, along with all their attractions, live music and hearty southern cuisine. Available year round, this multi-city break includes a journey aboard the City of New Orleans train as well as action-packed immersions into the worlds of rock, country music and jazz. Highlights include tours of Nashville's Country Music Hall of Fame and Johnny Cash Museum, Elvis Presley's Graceland compound in Memphis and the colourful and vibrant French Quarter of lively New Orleans. Also included are flights, transfers and accommodation (room only).

For a cross-border adventure, the 10-night USA & Canada rail discovery combines the cities of New York, Toronto and Montreal with a scenic journey on the Maple Leaf train. Starting in New York (perhaps with a Broadway show or the view from the top of the Empire State Building), the itinerary continues with a journey by train to Niagara Falls before crossing into Canada for a city break in Toronto. After maybe visiting the waterfront or landmark CN Tower, let the train take the strain again for the onward ride to Montreal, where café culture, Francophile charm and a walk to the top of Mont Royale (the hill from which the city takes its name) await. The package costs from £2,195pp and includes flights, accommodation (room only) and rail transfers.

Even more adventurous is this Hawaiian island-hopping itinerary that takes in four of these tropical treats for an immersion into all things aloha. The adventure begins on the island of Maui with a chance to try your hand at a Polynesian tradition, be it hula, surfing, ukulele or making a floral lei. The next stop is Kauai, often called the Garden Isle because of its richly forested interior that remains largely undeveloped. Staying near the golden sands of Poipu Beach, on the sunnier south of the island, you'll be well placed to head out on tours to the likes of Waimea Canyon (dubbed the Grand Canyon of the Pacific) and Fern Grotto - a lava cave dripping with tropical ferns doused with waterfall mists. Next up is Big Island, Hawai'i itself, which is nearly twice the size of the rest of Hawaii's islands combined. Black sand beaches, emerald forests, and lava deserts make this an otherworldly place to experience. Then finally, hit Oahu: home of world-famous Waikiki Beach and the capital, Honolulu, plus Pearl Harbour, cliff-top lookouts and the North Shore's surfing beaches. The 14-night, four-island odyssey costs from £3,995pp and includes flights, transfers, accommodation (room-only) and an excursion on each island.

For more information on these and other car-free itineraries, visit or call 0800 316 0194.  

Celestial road-tripping in the USA with Bon Voyage

We may sometimes aspire to reach for the stars, but it's not always easy to see these celestial bodies in light-polluted skies. Your constellation-spotting chances increase the further you go from artificial lights, which is why International Dark Sky Reserves have become such important resources. And with no fewer than ten International Dark Sky Parks (more than anywhere else in the world) plus a further 13 Dark Sky Places scattered within its borders, where better than the US state of Utah to cast your eyes to the heavens?

Most road trips though this part of the West are all about dramatic scenery, but this all-new Celestial Road Tripping in Utah package from Bon Voyage celebrates the state's celestial charms too. Starting in Salt Lake City, the itinerary takes in Antelope Island for its awesome wildlife and Dark Sky Park before heading on to Huntsville, which is home to HALO: the Hunstville Astronomic and Lunar Observatory. It's the perfect spot for joining a 'starwalk' to get to grips with sparkly planets, shining stars and deep sky objects as seen through the facility's state-of-the-art telescopes.

The journey continues to Heber Valley and the incredible Canyonlands, whose daytime attractions of geothermal springs and natural rock arches are complemented by magnificent skies once the sun goes down. There are numerous spots with Dark Sky status scattered throughout this region, where the naked eye is all you'll need to appreciate their glories. Gain further insight in Moab on an organised Sky Ranger tour, or join other stargazers in the wide, open spaces of Capitol Reef and Bryce Canyon National Parks. A real highlight awaits towards the end of the journey in Zion National Park, where it's even possible to camp out for a night among the red-rock canyons before continuing to Las Vegas for the flight back to the UK (or extend with a city break to enjoy the night sky lit up with neon).

This 12-night holiday costs from £2,195pp and includes flights, car hire and accommodation on room-only basis. For more information and to book, call Bon Voyage on 0800 316 0194 or visit 

Explore the wheel America! As featured in The Daily Mail Nov '21

Inspired by the Jack Kerouac novel 'On the Road', The Daily Mail's Ed Isacke embarked on an epic road trip from Denver to 'Frisco. An epic 1,200 miles and through five states - Colorado, Wyoming, Utah, Nevada and California.  

Bon Voyage can tailor-make this fly-drive from £2,499 per person over 14 days to include flights, car hire and hotels in sought after areas. To learn more call our team of experts on (0800) 316 3012.  

Choice Magazine feature December 2021 - Alabama Jazz, Blues and Soul Train

 Alabama has an important place in the story of the blues, most notably with Florence native W. C. Handy, the Father of the Blues. Handy played a unique role in jump-starting the music scene during the roaring 20's, and helped to bring the blues to international audiences. The combined efforts of Handy and another Alabamian, songwriter Perry Bradford, culminated in the first blues recording, Crazy Blues. Sung by Mamie Smith and released in 1920, this song became an unexpected, overnight sensation, selling more than 1 million copies in one year.

Dinah Washington was born in Tuscaloosa and grew up to become known as the Queen of the Blues. Nat King Cole of Montgomery, Birmingham’s jazz greats Sun Ra and Erskine Hawkins with his Orchestra and famous hit Tuxedo Junction are all a part of the history of jazz music in America. Dixieland Jazz Bands, such as the century-old Excelsior which performs in Mobile’s Mardi Gras, also fit distinctively in that heritage. Soul music arose out of the black experience in America through the transmutation of gospel and rhythm & blues. Lionel Richie, The Commodores, The Temptations and Percy Sledge are among the many soulful legends to make their mark in the music world. 

This leisurely fly-drive tour follows in their footsteps - click here for full details of call or team of experts on (0800) 316 3012. 

World's HOTTEST Hotels for 2022 - The Ambiente, Sedona - As featured in the Mail on Sunday November '21

Bathed in Arizona sunshine for over 300 days a year and with an average daily high temperature of 24C, Sedona is a sun seekers paradise. There's also something spiritual about the red rock town which draws some of our world's most amazing healers, intuitive, and spiritual guides.

From this summer it will also be home to the first ‘Landscape Hotel’ in North America. Recently named among the world's most highly anticipated hotel openings of 2022 the unique design of Ambiente blends in with the mystical red rocks and give guests the opportunity to experience and embrace the natural beauty that surrounds them in one of the world’s most stunning locations.

The boutique hotel’s 40 cubed-shaped, guest Atriums appear to be floating above the high desert topography as the structures reflect the landscape with the use of bronzed glass and steel piers.

The ultra-modern, two-story glass and metal lobby building will serve as the check-in area complete with a guest lounge, meeting rooms and offices. The lobby will fit within the existing contoured landform, minimising impact to the site. A waterfall will spill from the lobby into a pond below, feeding the property’s natural waterways. Once guests check in, they will take an elevator to the ground floor where they will be met by their valet and shuttled via a small electric-powered vehicle to their private Atrium. All lighting on the property will be indirect so that no exposed lightbulbs will be used anywhere, making Ambiente compliant with Dark Sky ordinances.

A natural lagoon-inspired pool and spa will be positioned as the centrepiece of the property and connected to an open-air Poolside Lounge that will house a full-service indoor/outdoor bar and a panoramic rooftop sun deck with fire pits and lounge seating. The bar will feature indoor and outdoor TVs, ample seating and a catering kitchen.

Renowned chef and restauranteur Lisa Dahl will lead the vision for the hotel's culinary offering with the ‘campy’ yet chic signature restaurant, Alchemy, located within a custom Airstream, that has been transformed and situated poolside at the heart of the rugged three-acre property.

North America experts Bon Voyage ( www.bon-voyage.co.uk ; 0800 316 0194) can arrange a 7-night stay at the Ambiente from £5,995 pp to include BA flights from Heathrow to Phoenix, car hire and 7 nights room-only accommodation for travel in November 2021. The Ambiente is due to open early 2022. 

'15 Weird & Wild Reasons to visit the USA' - Telegraph November '21  

For further details call our team of experts on (0800) 316 0194

Route 66 - Mail On Sunday USA Round-Up November 2021 

For full details on this legendary USA road trip click here, or call our team on (0800) 316 0194

New for 2022: Las Vegas and West Caribbean cruise-and-stay twin-centre

Vegas, baby. A trip to Sin City is all about nightlife, casinos and day-trips into the desert - but this landlocked destination isn’t something you'd typically pair with a Cruise. Nevertheless, with their focus on dining, attractions and entertainment, these two very different holidays make a perfect and memorable combination, which is why Bon Voyage has introduced a Vegas cruise-and-stay for 2022.

The suggested, tailor-made itinerary starts with a five-night stay in five-star comfort on the infamous Las Vegas Strip: home to neon lights, Broadway-style shows and the Bellagio's famed dancing fountains. Days here can be spent indulging in the city´s over-the-top delights, after which take the short flight to Houston, Texas and hit the beach town of Galveston. Here, soak up the Gulf of Mexico vibes and taste Texan treats such as fried shrimp and sizzling hot wings, or go full local at Buckshot Saloon - one of the best honky-tonks (live music bars) in town. After that, sail away on a week-long Royal Caribbean Cruise to the likes of Cozumel, Grand Cayman and Jamaica (via several relaxing days at sea) before returning to port and flying back home directly from Houston.

This 14-night Vegas-and-cruise vacation costs from £2,165pp and includes flights, 7 nights hotel accommodation (room-only), 7 nights full-board on the cruise (outside-facing cabin), the transfer from Houston to Galveston... and a winning streak of wonderful memories.

Truly get away from it all on a road trip through Alaska with Bon Voyage

After two years of travel restrictions, you can be sure that 2022 will see a surge in bucket-list trips. If unspoiled landscapes and wide, open spaces inspire your wanderlust, then it's likely that Alaska is the stuff of your holiday dreams. That's because America's 49th state is awash with epic wildlife and 17 of the 20 highest mountains in the nation. And despite being far and away the largest (bigger in fact than the next three states - Texas, California and Montana - combined), it's the third least populated of all, so there's plenty of opportunities to enjoy its uncrowded splendour.

To get the most from a trip to Alaska, North America travel specialist Bon Voyage has introduced an all-new, tailor-made Best of Alaska fly-drive itinerary that takes in the state's key attractions via a leisurely, circular route. Starting in Anchorage, Alaska's main gateway, follow Glenn Highway northwards to visit small towns such as Iditarod (home to a famous dog-sled race) and Talkeetna where, rather quirkily, a former mayor was a cat.

Beyond lies the six million acres of Denali National Park, a wilderness where you'll find Mount McKinley and wildlife such as wolves, moose, caribou and bears. Further along in Fairbanks, find Native American heritage and try your luck at panning for gold before immersing yourself in geothermal waters at a natural hot spring. After this, it's all about icy scenery, goldrush-era ghost towns and a flightseeing excursion over unspoiled mountains and glaciers. Looping back towards Anchorage, experience fjords, volcanoes and sea kayaking before returning to the starting point - and perhaps even extending with an ocean cruise on the Inside Passage.

Walk in the footsteps of the dinosaurs on an epic family adventure in Utah with Bon Voyage

With Jurassic World: Dominion - the latest film is the Jurassic Park franchise - set to hit UK cinema screens on 10 June 2022 dinosaur-loving families can have their own epic prehistoric adventure on a 13-night Walking with Dinosaurs fly-drive trip to Utah with Bon Voyage, including a visit to Utahraptor , the state’s newest park, which is set to open in 2022.

Flying into Salt Lake City take a drive along the Dinosaur Diamond Highway that runs from Salt Lake City to Moab. Stop off in Vernal to get up close with over 15,000 dinosaur bones at Dinosaur National Monument and take a hike along the Fossil Discovery Trail.

Make Moab your three-night base and visit Cleveland Dinosaur Quarry to see the world's greatest concentration of Jurassic dinosaur bones. Spending time in Arches and Canyonlands National Parks as well as the lesser known, but equally jaw-dropping, Dead Horse State Park. Dinosaur attractions here include Mill Canyon Dinosaur Trail and Moab Giants Dinosaur Museum or check out the hiking routes on the Dinosaur Stomping Grounds Trail and the Poison Spider and Willow Springs dinosaur tracks.

With the impressive backdrop of Utah’s big open scenery drive on to Blanding Dinosaur Museum and at nearby Bluff to see the incredible records of earlier human life, as well as dinosaur remains. Close by visit Natural Bridges National Monument which is home to three of the largest rock arches in the world, and was the world's first Dark Sky Park, offers stargazing programmes during the summer months.

In Monument Valley Bon Voyage can pre-book jeep tours to see its monolithic sandstone rock formations in the company of a local Navajo guide.

Before heading home from Las Vegas, spend the last few days in Zion National Park, Utah's oldest and most popular national park. Known for its slot canyons, soaring towers and monoliths. Visit the Dinosaur Discovery Site at Johnson's Farm in St George, which is home to 2,000 of the oldest, best preserved dinosaur tracks in the world!

Go retro winter 2021/2 with a stay in a classic silver Airstream at the new AutoCamp Joshua Tree in California.

Sitting round the camp fire making s’mores and star gazing in an International Dark Sky Park are just a couple of options available for guests staying in a sleek and stylish silver Airstream at the new AutoCamp Joshua Tree California, which is set to open this winter.

The spacious 31ft Classic model silver Airstream is fitted with a queen-size bed, kitchenette, walk-in rain shower and air conditioning for all-weather comfort. An outdoor living space comes complete with a fire pit and furniture and can accommodate up to three adults or two adults and two kids.

Beyond the Airstream the onsite clubhouse will feature an outdoor bar, a plunge pool and hot tub, and a mobile kitchen for resident chefs. Complimentary bikes are available to use on the property and a choice of weekly activities include yoga classes, live music and wine tasting with local wineries.

This is the latest addition to the California-based company’s other locations in Russian River Valley and Yosemite National Park; with a Cape Cod location set to debut next spring.

North America specialists, Bon Voyage, suggest combining at stay at AutoCamp Joshua Tree with a bigger trip to California.

A week in the sun this winter would cost from £1,475 to include flights from either London, Glasgow or Manchester to LA, car hire, 3-nights in a new airstream at Joshua Tree and 4-nights in a 4 star hotel in Palm Springs. For more information call our team on 0800 316 0194 

The Great American West - as featured in The Telegraph's 'Dream Trips for 2021'

As featured in '20 ways to travel differently in 2020' by Sophie Lam.

On Sunday 6th September 1620 ,The Mayflower - captained by Christopher Jones - set sail from Plymouth on a momentous, yet treacherous journey across the North Atlantic that would take just over two months. From the 132 pilgrims, settlers and crew on board a remarkable 30 million US citizens can today trace their ancestry back to this epic voyage. Be a part of the celebrations to mark the 400th anniversary by exploring the key sights and events that marked the birth of the United States of America. For full holiday details click here, or call our team of tailor-made experts on 0800 316 0194 for further details and a itinerary planning service.  

Catch the wave of family surfing holidays in Hawaii ahead of the Olympics with Bon Voyage

Surfing fans have reason to celebrate in Tokyo this summer as their favourite sport makes its debut in the 2020 Olympic Games. The sport originated in the island of Oahu, Hawaii, where rolling Pacific Ocean swells meet offshore reefs to create perfect waves. On Oahu, the tiny surfing town of Haleiwa on the legendary North Shore is considered the Surfing Capital of the World, while better-known Waikiki Beach on the south of the island claims the Birthplace of Surfing.

Join the experts in catching a wave in both these surfing hotspots with this twin-centre family holiday from Bon Voyage. Start with a 5-night stay in bustling Waikiki (with surfing lesson included) before a 90 minute drive to the North Shore and the swanky Turtle Bay Hotel near Haleiwa. The package (available during school holidays) includes flights, accommodation on the beach in both Waikiki and on the North Shore (room only) and car hire and costs from £2,895pp for a family of four. Mix things up with optional tours and excursions to the likes of Kualoa Ranch on Oahu (where scenes from Jurassic Park were filmed) and the pivotal WWII naval base at Pearl Harbour.  Or for the more adventurous try your hand a shark cage diving.

California Motorhome Holidays for Families

Featured in the article are details about motorhome holidays for the family in the Golden State. As well as California, we also offer motorhome holidays in Canada, the Canyonlands region, the Rocky Mountains and along Route 66. For further details click here  or call our team of experts on (0800) 316 0194. 

Time-travel through Wild West scenery on Colorado's historic railroads  

In a time before America became the land of the automobile, the only way to travel over distances was by train. A good many of the USA's railroads have since been axed or decommissioned, but the state of Colorado still has heaps of appeal for train buffs. Its Denver & Rio Grande Railway - which celebrates its 140th anniversary this year, having opened in 1880 - is a highlight, but it's not the only remarkable track to cross the Centennial State.

From the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad to the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, a journey by train here combines epic landscapes with the romance of the Wild West. Mainly built to transport gold and silver from the mines throughout the region, these railroads are now more appreciated for the vistas that they offer. Combine five of them on an all-new guided trip from Bon Voyage , which pairs rail excursions with Wild West towns and the mile-high city of Denver.

"50 Great Breaks in the USA" - 2020

If you'd like to speak to our team about either of these tours, please do call us on (0800) 316 0194 for further information. 

Dive into the Deep South in Charleston's 350^th anniversary year with Bon Voyage

This year sees Charleston, South Carolina - considered one of the USA's best small cities - celebrating its 350^th anniversary. Events to make the occasion commence on 18 April 2020, and will continue throughout the summer (which is also when British Airways' seasonal, nonstop flights from London operate). The seaside city is famed for its cobblestone streets, foodie scene and yesteryear appeal, adding up a city break filled with history, the freshest seafood and genuine Southern charm.

Charleston also makes a convenient gateway to discovering the Deep South and all its graceful antebellum homes and trees festooned with Spanish moss. North America specialist Bon Voyage suggests combining Charleston with its elegant southern sisters, New Orleans and Savannah. Start this tailor-made trip through three US states with a stay at the historic Francis Marion Hotel (whose ballroom birthed the Charleston dance craze in the 1920s), then let the train take the strain on the scenic journey to Savannah. From here, it's a short flight to New Orleans, where a sightseeing trip by paddle-steamer on the mighty Mississippi awaits.

The suggested 10-night holiday costs from £2,195pp, including British Airways flights from London (into Charleston and back from New Orleans; regional departures also available), room-only accommodation, train to Savannah, internal flights to New Orleans and various activities including walking tours, a horse-drawn carriage ride, a Louisiana plantation home tour and the Mississippi cruise.

For more information, call Bon Voyage on 0800 316 0194 or visit

Use a Leap Year trip to the Grand Canyon to ask for your fella's hand in marriage

Girls: if you're tired of waiting for your man to pop the question, this February comes with a chance to gain control of the situation. With 2020 being a Leap Year, tradition dictates that women can turn convention on its head by dropping down on one knee and proposing on the 29th of February.

Leap Years - when an extra day is added to February to keep the calendar year in sync with astronomy and the seasons - occur on a four-year cycle. Impatient women have Irish folklore to thank for the topsy-turvy Leap Year tradition - and if you're going to take the plunge and ask for your lucky fella's hand, you ought to choose a suitably signature spot in which to do so.

North America specialist Bon Voyage suggests the mighty Grand Canyon, where a five-night trip to Las Vegas costs from £1,795 per person. Departing on 27 February, the package includes flights, limousine transfers, accommodation (in a suite) at the five-star Venetian Hotel, plus a helicopter trip (with champagne picnic) to the edge of the Grand Canyon. Just don't even think about leaving him there should he happen to decline...

Sunday Times Feature  - 'Ten of the best road trips in the US' 

'50 Brilliant Breaks for Happy Families' As featured in the Daily Telegraph  

'The 26 Hottest Destinations for 2020' As featured in Good Housekeeping 

Western Canada, Alberta

Bursting with wildlife, this western Canadian province is home to 587 different species from grizzlies and black bears to moose, elk, bison, bighorn sheep, lynx, wolves and wolverine. Birdlife includes Clark’s Nutcrackers, Stellar Jays, ravens, falcons and white-tailed ptarmigan. On a wildlife spotting trip to Alberta…

• Use the capital city of Edmonton as your base to explore lesser-known nearby Elk Island which is Canada’s only fully-enclosed national park and home to 300 free roaming bison which have been re-introduced after almost being hunted to extinction historically. Find it just 30 minutes east of the city
• Head to quieter Jasper National Park in the Canadian Rockies to explore a rugged mountain paradise with diverse wildlife watching habitats. While wildlife is all around you, for help spotting them, join SunDog’s ‘Discover Jasper and its Wildlife’ tour to learn from local guides about how wildlife contributed to the rich diversity of the National Park
• Journey south along the Icefields Parkway where Rocky Mountain Sheep roam free to see a land of blue-tipped glaciers before arriving in Banff National Park which is a paradise in spring for wildlife
• En route back to Calgary, visit the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary in Cochrane which provides a home for wolfdogs that have been neglected, abandoned or otherwise displaced. This non-profit organization promotes responsible wolfdog ownership and visitors can get up-close-and-personal with the wolfdogs while at the sanctuary

When to go? The best time of the year to see wildlife in the Canadian Rockies are during the slower tourist seasons of spring, fall and winter. This is when many of the animals move to lower elevations and near towns for mating rituals or food. Female mule deer and bighorn sheep are visible year round. In the spring as the snow begins to clear in the lower valleys, the wild life can be seen foraging for grass along the road sides. Female elk will group together in meadows close to the towns of Banff and Jasper with their new calves. Bighorn sheep and deer start to bring their young to the grassy areas as well. The odd bear can be seen as early as mid to late March, but most of them start to come out of hibernation in late April and early May.

Getting there: Bon Voyage offers nine nights in Alberta, Canada from £1,695 per person for travel in May 2020. The price includes BA flights from LHR to Edmonton (returning from Calgary), car hire for the duration, two nights at the Coast Edmonton Plaza Hotel, three nights at The Crimson Hotel in Jasper, three nights at Banff Rocky Mountain Resort and one nights at Delta Hotels by Marriott in Calgary. The package also winter activities as follows: SunDog’s ‘Discover Jasper and its Wildlife’ Tour , a tour of the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary in Cochrane and a guided wildlife excursion with Discover Banff Tours . The price is based on two adults travelling and sharing room only accommodation.

All Bon Voyage holidays can be tailor-made to your exact requirements - call the team of Canada experts on 0800 316 0194 for further details.

For more information, visit: www.travelalberta.com/uk/things-to-do/nature-wildlife

Cruising America's Great Lakes with Jane McDonald 

Cruising with Jane McDonald, the popular Channel 5 travel series, returned to our screens last Friday (29 November) with a focus on cruising America's Great Lakes. Jane's journey aboard Victory Cruise Lines' MV Victory II took in Lakes Michigan, Huron, Erie and Ontario before heading up the St Lawrence River to Montreal. The highlight of any voyage through these inland seas is always Niagara, where Jane took a boat trip under Horseshoe Falls before careering down a zip-wire into the gorge at the base of the cataract.

Those inspired to follow in her footsteps can book a similar journey through Bon Voyage, who recommend pairing the voyage with overnight stays in Chicago and Niagara Falls. Available from May to October, the trip commences with an exploration of the Windy City before setting sail. Typical of Victory Cruise Line's immersive shore excursions (included in the price) is a visit to Mackinac Island, a step-back-in-time experience on a car-free National Historic Landmark isle that's little changed since Victorian times. Other ports of call include Detroit, where a visit to the Henry Ford Museum includes a chance to see such notable vehicles as the limousine in which JFK was travelling on that fateful day in 1963. And of course there's that boat trip beneath the 792-metre high Horseshoe Falls - visited on an excursion that includes a tour of the surrounding wine region.

Think Alberta is all about skiing? 

Well we do boast some of the world’s best powder, but for non-skiers, there’s plenty on offer too. From brand new ice walks at night at Jasper’s Maligne Canyon and tubing at Mount Norquay on Canada’s longest and fastest tubing lanes to taking the Ice Bubbles tour to learn about the scientific phenomenon that lies beneath Abraham Lake in the Rockies. 

Getting there: Bon Voyage offers eight nights in Alberta, Canada from £1,825 per person for travel in February 2020. The price includes return economy flights from LHR to Edmonton (returning from Calgary), SUV car hire for the duration and eight nights room only accommodation (1 night at JW Marriott ICE District, three nights at Crimson Hotel, Jasper, two nights at Fairmont Lake Louise and two nights at the recently opened Pomeroy Mountain Lodge in Kananaskis Country). The package also includes a variety of winter activities and excursions as follows: New ice walk at night in Maligne Canyon in Jasper National Park, tubing at Mount Norquay, snowshoeing to the Paint Pots in Banff/Lake Louise and an Icefalls and Ice Bubbles tour with Pursuit Collection of Cline River Canyon and Abraham Lake in the Rockies. For further information call the team at Bon Voyage on (0800) 316 0194.

Need more inspiration for non-ski winter activities in Alberta? How about…

• Fat-biking through Edmonton’s snow-covered river valley
• Visting majestic ice castles in Hawrelak Park in Edmonton – this award-winning frozen attraction is built by ice artists using hundreds of thousands of hand-placed icicles to create ice castles with LED-lit sculptures, frozen thrones, ice-carved tunnels…
• Discovering a natural habitat at Elk Island National Park (30 mins drive from Edmonton) where over 300 bison roam free – this is Canada’s only fully-enclosed national park
• Road trippin’ through the Rocky Mountains amidst snow-capped trees and driving along the iconic Icefields Parkway – regularly voted as one of the world’s best road trips and free to do!
• Going dog-sledding
• Learning to cross-country ski at Lake Louise with a Mountain Heritage Guide
• A sleigh ride through a snowy winter wonderland
• Soaking in the steaming hot waters of the recently opened Kananaskis Nordic Spa at the Pomeroy Mountain Lodge – and if you’re brave, taking a dip in the cold pool

Enjoy festival fun in Las Vegas and spend New Years’ Eve toe tapping at a Keith Urban concert in Nashville with Bon Voyage

Departing on 26^th December US experts, Bon Voyage are offering a week-long two centre break pairing 3-nights in the bright lights of Las Vegas with 4-nights’ in Nashville from £1,595 pp.

Enjoy the best festive shows with oversized Christmas trees and entertainment all along the Las Vegas strip, then swap the bright lights of Sin City for toe-tapping tunes in the home of country music, Nashville, Tennessee. On New Years’ Eve there’s free entrance to Nashville’s Jack Daniel’s Music City Midnight concert, headlined by country singer, songwriter Keith Urban, joined by guitarist Peter Frampton, plus soulful rising star, Devon Gilfillian and other emerging local Tennessee bands.

Cost includes flights from London Heathrow to Las Vegas and back from Nashville, 3-nights’ in Las Vegas at the MGM Hotel (room only) and 4-nights’ at the Indigo Hotel in Nashville (room only), internal flights from Las Vegas to Nashville. The concert is taking place at Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park. For further details call (0800) 316 0194

How to combine a White Christmas with a relaxing sunshine break

May your days be merry and bright this weekend, when White Christmas The Musical opens in London (on Saturday 16 November). The score for the family-friendly, festive show was written by Irving Berlin, whose most famous song, "White Christmas" itself (recorded by Bing Crosby) became the biggest-selling single of all time.

Irving Berlin composed the track in Phoenix, Arizona while staying at the Arizona Biltmore, a historic hotel (now a Waldorf Astoria) also favoured by Marilyn Monroe. So if you're dreaming of a white Christmas but are not so keen on the cold, get the best of both worlds with a seasonal escape to the sun-drenched desert city.

The Queen of Rock'n'Roll turns 80! 

This month (26 November) sees Tina Turner - the legendary Queen of Rock 'n Roll - turns 80 years old. The star, born Anna Mae Bullock in 1939 in the state of Tennessee, went on to find worldwide fame and sell more than 200 million records. Fans can discover her story at the Tina Turner Museum in Brownsville, Tennessee, which occupies the one-room schoolhouse that the future Private Dancer singer attended as a child. The museum's collection spans all sorts of Tina Turner memorabilia, including costumes, photos, gold records and even her high-school yearbook.

Tour operator Bon Voyage suggests pausing in Brownville to visit the museum while on its 12-day Tennessee and the South self-drive holiday. The round-trip route from Atlanta takes in the best of the region's music and mountains, from the lively cities of Memphis and Nashville to quirkier attractions such as Elvis Presley's birthplace in Tupelo, Patsy Cline's home in Nashville and Dolly Parton's super-kitsch Dollywood Theme Park. Other highlights include the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Alabama's Civil Rights Institute and the famous Country Music Hall of Fame.

Costing from £1,995 per person, the holiday includes flights (from London, Manchester or Glasgow), accommodation, car hire and a personalised "road book" of detailed driving directions and travel tips. For more information and to book, call Bon Voyage on 0800 316 0194 for further details.

Visit USA Media Awards.

Congratulation to Nigel Richardson from The Daily Telegraph on winning the Best National Newspaper feature at the Visit USA awards on Monday night for his piece on the opening of the Civil Rights Museum. 

To read his award winning piece go to bvusa.co/telegraph. To include the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum in your tailor-made holiday to the USA, call Bon Voyage on (0800) 316 0194.

It's Now Or Never for an Elvis-inspired Christmas break with Bon Voyage

For a Christmas break as glitzy as one of Elvis Presley's rhinestone-studded outfits, look no further than Graceland - the singer's legendary home. Every year, the Memphis mansion is transformed for the festive season with thousands of decorations, fairy lights and - during the Graceland Holiday Concert Weekend in mid-December - a series of concerts and events. Highlights of the schedule include a Jingle Bell Brunch with live entertainment, a Home for the Holidays with Elvis performance by the Memphis Symphony Orchestra (featuring recordings of The King's own vocals) and an Elvis' Christmas Peace concert of his favourite seasonal songs and gospel music.

With limited availability, the Graceland Holiday Concert Weekend is certain to sell out. To avoid a Blue Christmas, tour operator Bon Voyage suggests getting All Shook Up and booking as soon as possible. The company has packaged the weekend into a fun and festive, five-day Memphis break costing from £1,299 per person (two sharing). Departing the UK on Thursday 12 December, the holiday includes flights (from London, Manchester or Glasgow), transfers, four nights room-only at The Guest House at Graceland, and VIP admission to both Graceland and Elvis Presley's Memphis entertainment complex.

For more information and to book, call 0800 316 0194. 

Celebrate Rocky Mountaineer's 30th anniversary next year with a free night's stay in Vancouver

Next year sees Rocky Mountaineer - Canada's celebrated luxury train - achieve the milestone of 30 years' service though the wilds of Alberta and British Columbia. Celebrate in style by booking a trip though North America specialist Bon Voyage, which is offering an extra night's accommodation free of charge with all bookings made by 25 October, 2019. Better still, customers can upgrade to an epic "rail and sail" adventure that combines an overland journey on Rocky Mountaineer with a cruise along Alaska's Inside Passage.

The adventure begins with an overnight in Vancouver before boarding Holland America's Volendam for a 7-night voyage (in an ocean-view stateroom) via Ketchikan, Juneau and Glacier Bay to seek indigenous cultures and wildlife encounters amidst epic coastal scenery. Guests then return to Vancouver for a two-night city break before commencing the rail element of the trip, which traverses the unspoiled scenery between Vancouver and Jasper via some of North America's most arresting mountain backdrops. The journey continues by road along the legendary Icefields Parkway to Banff and on through Yoho National Park, Lake Louise (for an overnight stay at the celebrated Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise) and the cowboy town of Calgary, where the odyssey comes to an end.

The holiday costs from £6,599 per person and includes flights (from London, Manchester or Glasgow), transfers, three nights in Vancouver (at the four-star Pinnacle Hotel), a 7-night ocean cruise and 6-night escorted journey by rail and road from Vancouver to Calgary, including SilverLeaf Service on the Rocky Mountaineer (covering drinks and meals). The itinerary is also available in reverse order. For more information and to book, call 0800 316 0194 or visit here.

Plan ahead with Bon Voyage for next summer's ultimate hoedown in Nashville

Next summer may seem a long way off, but that's how far ahead you need to plan if you love country music. Nashville, Tennessee is the official home of country music, and its CMA (Country Music Association) festival is one of Music City's most popular events.

Held each year in the first week of June, the festival is now considered one of the USA's hottest events and sees the genre's top performers gather for four days of boot-scootin' concerts. It's so popular, in fact, that tickets sell out way in advance - and certainly by December - so booking ahead is essential if music fans don't want to miss out.

Those keen to make the festival a highlight of a Deep South holiday should consider Bon Voyage's suggested, tailor-made "Best of the Deep South + Nashville's CMA Festival" itinerary, which pairs event tickets with a thorough exploration of the region. Starting in Atlanta on 31 May, 2020, the self-guided trip takes in the Great Smoky Mountains and Dolly Parton's hometown, Sevierville, before arriving in Nashville to coincide with the CMA Music Festival. Mingle with other country cowboys and girls with VIP access throughout the festival, including a chance to meet and greet key country music icons. The journey then continues via some of the Deep South's other greatest hits: lively Memphis, plantation homes, a Mississippi river cruise and a visit to Graceland, Elvis Presley's legendary home. The journey rounds off with a city break in colourful New Orleans, with plenty of time for immersions into the French Quarter's one-of-a-kind charm.

Get your cooks on Route 66!

To find our more about our Route 66 holidays by Harley-Davidson, car, motorhome or escorted tour click here or call the team at Bon Voyage on (0800) 316 0194 for further details.

Halloween Horror Nights this Half Term

For frightening family fun this October half term head to Universal Orlando as they take fear to the max with Halloween Horror Nights.

This year it’s back to the ‘80s with 10 terrifying haunted houses inspired by the biggest names in horror, plus five pulse-pounding scare zones and a host of live entertainment. Expect cinematic screams and the most horrifying cult classics of the decade all set to the backdrop of the theme park’s exciting rides and attractions.

Departing Saturday 21 October Bon Voyage (0800 316 0194) offers a week-long package from £925 pp based on a family of four travellers. Cost includes 7-nights the 4 star Universal’s Aventura Hotel, (room only) and early entry into the park; Halloween Horror Frequent Fear Passes valid for two days unlimited entry during the stay and flights with American Airlines via Philadelphia to Orlando. Not recommended for child aged under 13 years – package is geared for older teens.

https://orlando.halloweenhorrornights.com/site/ 

Save this September on a twin-centre beach break to Miami and Naples Beach Florida

With daily temperatures of 30° travel during September 2019 to save £225pp on 10-night twin-centre beach break to Miami and Naples Beach in Florida with Bon Voyage from £1,595pp.

Feel the distinctly Latin beat of Miami as you cruise along Ocean Drive in a convertible hire car with a three-night stay in the historic Art Deco Gale Hotel on South Beach (room only). Enjoy miles of unbroken Atlantic Ocean beaches and people watch from the comfort of an outdoor bar or restaurant.

Then head over to the Gulf coast for a seven night stay at the 4-star La Playa Beach & Golf Resort ( room only) on Naples Beach. As one of Florida's finest resort hotels, La Playa sits between the Gulf of Mexico and picturesque Vanderbilt Bay, just moments from the warm water and white sandy beach.

Cost includes flights with American Airlines from Heathrow to Miami, accommodation (room only) and Convertible car hire. Book by 5th September 2019

To book call Bon Voyage on 0800 316 0194 

Celebrate Easy Rider's half centenary on a road-trip to remember with Bon Voyage

This Summer marks 50 years since the release of ‘Easy Rider’, the cult American road-trip movie starring Dennis Hopper and the late Peter Fonda. Departing 18 September, there’s still time to join a special guided tour that follows the route taken by the lead characters on their motorbike adventure from LA to New Orleans.

In their search for the freedom of life on the open road, protagonists Wyatt and Billy stumble on quirky countercultures and small-town characters in a story that has since inspired generations of motorbike riders. Their route took them through the deserts of Death Valley and the Mojave and on through historic Route 66 towns, the natural splendour of Monument Valley and the landmark of Four Corners (where the states of Arizona, Utah, Colorado and New Mexico meet).

The special Easy Rider 50th Anniversary Movie Tour follows this exact same route and on via Austin, Texas to New Orleans, with stops along the way to visit locations that fans will have seen on the screen. Each group of like-minded riders will be accompanied throughout by an expert guide to bring the Easy Rider story to life through their knowledge and anecdotes.

This once-in-a-lifetime, 15-night odyssey costs from £5,125 per person and includes flights to LA and home from New Orleans, accommodation (with breakfast), motorbike rental, the services of a tour guide and a custom riding jacket. For more information, call 0800 316 0194 or click here. 

Forget The Gap Year - Take A Sabbatical

American Queen Christmas 2019 Cruise

Given that it's the middle of summer, Christmas may be the last thing on your mind - but a little forward planning is essential to bag the very best festive breaks. With only 436 passengers, spaces are limited on the American Queen's special Christmas sailing on the Mississippi.

The famous paddle-wheeler plies Old Man River year-round, but it's most magical during the Holidays when the Deep South cities at which it calls are all dressed up in their seasonal best.

From Memphis to New Orleans via rock'n'roll history and graceful antebellum homes, the voyage takes in all the region's key highlights alongside special on-board activities such as ornament-making, cookie-decorating and a huge Christmas feast on the big day itself.

The 12-day holiday departs on Saturday 21st December and costs from £3,359 per person; this price includes flights,transfers, 7 nights full-board on the American Queen in a veranda stateroom and two nights' hotel accommodation both pre- and post-cruise. For more information, call 0800 316 0194 or visit 

New from Bon Voyage: Deep in the Heart of Texas - the Go Big or Go Home Tour

They do things big in the Lone Star State: and stories don't come larger than that of the first ever man on the moon. With the 50th anniversary of the moon landings fast approaching (the Apollo 11 spacecraft touched down on the Moon on July 20, 1969), Houston, Texas is back in the spotlight. Although Apollo 11 blasted off from Florida's Kennedy Space Center, it was Space Center Houston that played the role of Mission Control for the historic event. Its large collection of moon rocks and spacecraft make this one of the city's leading attractions and a highlight of an all new fly-drive from Bon Voyage, the leading specialist tour operator to North America.

Called Deep in the Heart of Texas - the Go Big or Go Home Tour, this is a thorough exploration of a state that's larger than any European country and twice the size of Germany. The suggested, tailor-made, 20-day itinerary takes in edgy Austin, cowboy country and frontier history on a journey that makes the most of the Lone Star State's diversity. In addition to Space Center Houston, explore the Alamo, Amarillo and the stark beauty of Big Bend National Park before taking in Palo Duro Canyon and the 62,000-year-old Odessa Meteor Crater. Enjoy a bit of Texas two-stepping and live music in Forth Worth, then continue to Dallas to discover the story of JFK at the fascinating Sixth Floor Museum.

Ice Ice Baby..

Touring the wilds of Canada just got eminently more comfortable thanks to chic and stylish Glacier View Lodge, which opened its doors just this month (June 2019). Located in an Alpine zone overlooking the Athabasca Glacier, the comfortable resort is the perfect choice for overnight stays while discovering the epic, unspoiled scenery of the famed Columbia Icefield. 

As well as considerably upgrading its guest rooms and interiors, the fully revamped lodge has implemented an all-inclusive policy that brings accommodation, dining and experiences under one convenient price-point. Guests are welcomed with a champagne reception before setting off to explore the glacier; dinner and stargazing follow, with breakfast served next morning before heading out for a private, guided hike to the Skywalk - a glass-floored lookout hanging 280m above Sunwapta Valley. And better still, as this is the only accommodation for miles around, guests can enjoy this exclusive experience in splendid solitude.

Tour operator Bon Voyage can include an overnight stay at Glacier View Lodge in its suggested, self-drive Great Parks of the West fly-drive itinerary. Starting and ending in Vancouver, the two-week trip takes in Jasper, Banff and Glacier National Parks as well as a drive through otherworldly landscapes along the Icefield Parkway - said to be one of North America's most scenic routes. The journey continues though the Rocky Mountains to two lesser-known (but no less beautiful) Provincial Parks - Wells Gray and Garibaldi - before returning to Vancouver via the epic Sea-to-Sky Highway, another of the continent's most revered roads. The holiday costs from £2,995 per person and includes flights (from London, Manchester or Glasgow), car hire and 14 nights' accommodation, plus a personalised road book containing travel tips and detailed directions. Call (0800) 316 0194 for further details.

Tuning in to Memphis 

Lead in cost per person £995 to include flights from the UK to Memphis and five nights in a suite with kitchenette in the, bohemian and boutique, Talbot Heirs. All Bon Voyage holiday can be tailor-made to your exact requirements, why not consider extending your stay and including New Orleans, Nashville or New York? Call (0800) 316 0194 for reservations and further info.

Luxury Cruise to Alaska - HUGE Savings this Summer.

Departing on either 4^th, 11^th, 18^th or 25^th August and 1^st September 2019 save £4,000 pp on an incredible 6-star Regent Seven Seas Alaskan cruise with Bon Voyage from £4,495 pp.

Recognised as the world's best luxury cruise experience, Regent Seven Seas all suite and all balcony ships are more like floating, luxury boutique hotels than cruise ships and carry no more than 750 guests.

Sailing from Vancouver cruise Alaska's Inside Passage and explore its idyllic natural wilderness, rich Alaskan native culture and gold-rush-era buildings on a seven-night cruise. There are stops along the way in Ketchikan, the capital Juneau, Skagway, Sitka and Cruise Hubbard Glacier. Leaving the ship in Seward for a railroad transfer to Anchorage.

The package included flights from the UK to Vancouver and returning from Anchorage, three nights pre-cruise at the Four Seasons Hotel Vancouver, seven-nights in a deluxe Veranda Suite on board Regent Seven Seas Mariner, Alaska railroad Goldstar Service transfer between Seward and Anchorage and one night in The Lakefront Anchorage.

Whilst on board there are unlimited shore excursions, unlimited WiFi throughout the ship, unlimited beverages (including fine wines and spirits), no supplements for speciality restaurants and pre-paid gratuities.To book call Bon Voyage on 0800 316 0194 for a brochure or further details.

Rock n’ rail - save £429pp on a two-centre music themed tour of the Deep South 

Departing on 25 August 2019 save £429pp on an eight-night music themed tour of the Deep South with Bon Voyage from £1,249 pp.

Travel by rail through the musical heart of deep south USA from toe tapping Memphis to the hustle and bustle of the Big Easy: New Orleans, staying in superior hotels in prime locations.

Cost includes flights from Heathrow with BA to Memphis, rail travel to New Orleans, 4 nights at the 4-star Hu Hotel in Memphis and 4-nights at the 5-Star International House in New Orleans (2 sharing)

Book before 22 June 2019 

For further details call (0800) 316 0194 

Rocky Mountaineer

Book now and save up to £600 per couple on a trip of a lifetime through the Canadian Rockies

Train trips through the Canadian Rockies are true bucket-list experiences - but due to their popularity, they tend to sell out way in advance. Early booking is therefore essential: and to make the trip even more tempting, tour operator Bon Voyage is offering a special deal on bookings for 2020 that's worth up to £600 per couple. Book by 31 August 2019 for any dates next summer and get flights, transfers, two days on the Rocky Mountaineer train in SilverLeaf Service, 11 nights hotel accommodation and various excursions (including a panoramic helicopter tour of scenic Lake Louise) from £3,495 per person, based on two adults sharing. The holiday starts with a city break in Vancouver before taking the Rocky Mountaineer to Kamloops and onward to Jasper and its stunning National Park. The journey continues by road to Banff National Park via the legendary Icefield Parkway and on to Lake Louise before ending with an overnight stay in Calgary. For more information and to book, call 0800 316 0194.

Featured in the Scottish Sun - 15/05/2019

Celebrate 200 years of Memphis - the Birthplace of Rock'n'Roll - with Bon Voyage

This year sees the 200th anniversary of the founding of Memphis, the Tennessee city established in May 1819 on the banks of the Mississippi River. Although the city's early years were driven by transport and commerce, by the 1950s it had developed a reputation for revolutionary music. Its famous Sun Studio helped launch the careers of the likes of Johnny Cash and BB King, though Memphis is most readily linked to The King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley, whose Graceland home is now one of the biggest attractions in town. The city's other musical highlights include the Rock'n'Soul Museum and Stax Museum of American Soul Music, which pair well with the Grand Ole Opry, Johnny Cash Museum and Country Music Hall of Fame in nearby Nashville.

Discover both these cities and that other Southern Belle, New Orleans, on a car-free, self-guided Heritage to Honky Tonk tour with North America specialist, Bon Voyage. Starting in Nashville with a three-night stay (including plenty of time to catch performances in its honky-tonk bars), the itinerary continues via chauffeured limousine to Memphis for a further three-night stay. Admission to Sun Studio, Graceland and the key music museums is included, then it's time to catch the City of New Orleans train to the Big Easy. A four-night stay here comes with an included walking tour of the colourful French Quarter and a memorable cruise by steamer on the mighty Mississippi.

This exclusive, 11-day holiday taking in the best of the Deep South costs from £2,475 per person and includes non-stop flights from London (departures from Manchester and Glasgow are also available), transfers, quality accommodation and certain sightseeing/attractions. Call 0800 316 0194 for further details.

British Airways' NEW non-stop flight to Charleston, South Carolina.

On our Southern Belles, Journey South , and Flavours of South Carolina fly-drive and rail holidays,charming Charleston is the starting point for your adventures through the Deep South. 

All Bon Voyage itineraries can be fully tailor-made to your exact requirements, call the team of experts on 0800 316 0194.  
Featured in the Daily Mail and the Scottish Daily Mail  -30/03/2019.

Western Canada National Park Road Trip

For full details of this fly-drive click here. All Bon Voyage holidays are totally tailor-made, call our team of experts on (0800) 316 0194 to discuss your ideal trip. 

Hawaii - State of Excitement 

Cruise the Hawaiian islands on an all-new, small-ship adventure with Bon Voyage

Island-hopping by boat is a magical way to discover Hawaii, but some of that magic is lost if you're sharing the experience with thousands of passengers. Though mainstream cruise ships have many merits, they're surely not everyone's cup of tea - so for those who prefer not to travel in crowds, a small-ship cruise on Safari Explorer will have much more ‘aloha’ appeal.

Safari Explorer is part of UnCruise, a company that prides itself as being the cruise line for those who hate cruises. With just 18 cabins accommodating a maximum of 36 guests, the ship provides an intimate environment for exploring the Hawaiian islands. Life onboard is suitably casual, with informal dining often taking the form of a barbecue on deck. Days can be spent dolphin-spotting and snorkelling over coral gardens, or even having close encounters with giant manta rays. The ship offers seven-night sailings around the highlights of the archipelago, stopping off in Molokai, Lanai, Big Island and colourful Maui, all of which offer authentic Polynesian culture and adventures.

Bon Voyage - the only tour operator to offer this all-new trip in the UK - recommends pairing the odyssey with a pre-cruise beach break in Honolulu to ensure that passengers can enjoy all aspects of the Hawaii experience.

An 11-night holiday combining the cruise with four nights' hotel accommodation costs from £6,695 per person and includes flights, transfers, all meals at sea plus activities and excursions such as kayaking, paddleboards and snorkelling. For more information, call 0800 316 0194 or click here.

Follow Bonnie & Clyde on a Louisiana Highway Holiday 

Ansel Adams - Yosemite National Park

Photography masterclass in Yosemite National Park led a photographer from the renowned Ansel Adams Gallery. The 4-hour workshops - held twice per week - are inspired by the work of Ansel Adams, who made his name with his legendary, black-and-white shots of American landscapes. Many of his most famous works were captured right there in Yosemite and the hands-on, small-group classes (maximum 10) help guests shoot the scenery with similar success.

US specialists, Bon Voyage can package the experience into a suggested, 14-night Classic California fly-drive from San Francisco to LA , taking in the wilds of Yosemite alongside Palm Springs' amazing mid-century architecture, Monterey's coastal scenery and the irrepressible glamour of Hollywood.

The holiday costs from £2,695 per person and includes flights (from London, Manchester or Glasgow), car hire, accommodation (room-only) and a personalised "road book" containing detailed directions and travel tips. Call Bon Voyage 0800 316 0194 for further details.

The Hot List 2019 - USA Theme Parks

Our California Coastal Cool fly-drive includes this retro seaside town and was the feature in a 'USA Theme Parks' article in the The Telegraph on 16th March 2019. 

If you'd like to include Santa Cruz in your tailor-made holiday to North America, contact Bon Voyage on (0800) 316 0194  

Solo Traveller Trip to the Deep South 

For further details and to book call (0800) 316 0194.

'Great American Breaks for 2019' - As featured in The Times

It's been 50 years since the cult movie hit the big screen and our 16 day guided group tour follows the exact route taken by Billy and Wyatt on their epic journey from LA to the Big Easy. For further details click here or call (0800) 316 0194   

National Cherry Blossom Festival - See Washington DC at its seasonal best with Bon Voyage

America's East Coast may be famed for spectacular fall foliage, but Autumn isn't the only time the region's trees put on a show. Springtime is cherry blossom season - and nowhere looks better at this time of year than Washington DC.

In 1912, the Mayor of Tokyo gifted 3,000 cherry trees to the American capital, many of which were planted along the National Mall and Reflecting Pool. Their shimmering blooms bring post-winter colour to this, one of the country's greatest landmarks. Such is the flowers' significance that they are welcomed each spring with the National Cherry Blossom Festival, which coincides with the period in which the petals are at their peak (this year's event runs from 20 March until 13 April).

To get the best from the season, specialist tour operator Bon Voyage recommends pairing a flower-filled DC city break with a self-drive tour along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Routinely voted as America's favourite drive, this 469-mile trail runs through the Appalachian Highlands and connects Shenandoah National Park with Tennessee's Great Smoky Mountains. Along the way, the route takes in pioneer history, epic vistas and charming small towns such as Charlottesville, Virginia, where Thomas Jefferson, James Madison and James Monroe all practised law before going on to become the third, fourth and fifth Presidents of the United States.

Bon Voyage's all-new America's Favourite Drive itinerary costs from £2,225 per person and includes flights (from London, Manchester or Glasgow) into Washington and home from Atlanta, 13 nights' accommodation in cosy and character inns or B&Bs, car hire and a personalised road book with day to day itinerary and travel tips. Call 0800 316 0194 for further details.

'Six Great Driving Holidays' The Times 2019

This holiday can be totally tailor-made to your exact requirements, please call Bon Voyage on (0800) 316 0194 for further information.

'Hollywood Thrills' Hot List 2019 as featured in the Daily Telegraph

With the Oscars in full swing we are delighted to feature in the 'Hollywood Thrills' hot list this weekend with our California Dream Drive holiday. 

For further details regarding this and other tailor-made holidays available to California and The West call our team on (0800) 316 0194.

85^th Anniversary of Bonnie & Clyde

Whether it’s the 1967 iconic film Bonnie and Clyde (starring Warren Beatty and Faye Dunaway), or the upcoming Netflix movie The Highwaymen, (starring Kevin Costner and Woody Harrleson), which is scheduled to be released in March 2019, the story of the infamous duo endures to this day, and especially at the Bonnie & Clyde Ambush Museum in Gibsland, Louisiana. It was 85 years ago, on 23 May 1934, that the pair met their fate on an isolated stretch of highway eight miles out of Gibsland and the location was used in the filming of the upcoming Netflix movie.

Bon Voyage suggests a visit to the Ambush Museum as a side trip on the way to Shreveport as part of an authentic Louisiana fly-drive. The 13-night trip costs from £2,295 per person and includes flights, car hire and accommodation (room-only basis)in historic B&Bs and Inns along with some of the finest plantation homes in the USA, plus a personalised road book with details, directions and travel tips.

Full details can be found here

California RV Road Trip as featured in the Sunday Express & Sunday Mirror - Jan 2019 

All Bon Voyage motorhome holidays include pre-booked sites en route. For further details and sample itineraries, visit here, or call our team of experts on (0800) 316 0194.  

'Great American Road Trips' As featured in the Sunday Telegraph

'Legal Aliens' - as featured in the Daily Telegraph January 2019

We're delighted to see our New Mexico 'Land of Enchantment' fly-drive tour feature in the Daily Telegraph. For further details, please call our team of USA experts on 0800 316 0194.

Explore Hawaii's Jurassic World with Bon Voyage

With Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom - the latest film is the Jurassic Park franchise - set to hit UK cinema screens on 7 June, the spotlight falls on the Hawaiian island of Oahu. That's because much of the action was filmed at Kualoa Ranch, a 4,000-acre expanse of mountains, valleys and tropical forest tucked away on Oahu's wild and unspoiled North Shore.   

 All these spots and more can be experienced first-hand on a tour of Kualoa Ranch, which lies within easy reach of the Hawaiian capital, Honolulu and legendary Waikiki Beach.

To learn more about Kuaoloa Ranch click here.

 To include Kualoa Ranch in your holidays plans to Hawaii, call Bon Voyage on 0800 316 0194. 

Inns of Western Canada 

Canada's National Parks are at their best in summer - but the hotels and campsites that serve them can be overrun and crowded. Far better, then, to stay in a charming and characterful B&B for a taste of authentic Canadian hospitality. This kind of accommodation is tricky to track down and pre-book, but Bon Voyage has made this easy with an all-new itinerary: British Columbia & Alberta a Bed & Breakfast Tour. 

New for 2019 and exclusive to Bon Voyage, this two-week, circular, tailor-made fly-drive starts and ends in lively Vancouver and takes in some of the Rockies' most scenic sights and National Parks. 

Along the way, stay in one-of-a-kind digs with stacks of style and far more personality than your average hotel, such as a heritage property on a Vancouver backstreet, a home-from-home in Okanagan wine country and a cosy retreat in Canmore, which is a far more authentic alternative to Banff.

"Our existing tours using B&Bs or inns in the Deep South and Hawaii are very popular, so we’ve expanded the concept into Western Canada for 2019," says Karen Niven, Bon Voyage's product manager. "We’ve found that customers love these smaller properties for their unique character, plus the friendly hosts play a big part in advising guests how to experience the area like a local."

Epic California family road-trip

Take in California's awesome Pacific coastline on this leisurely two-week family road-trip. Starting in San Francisco (perhaps with a bike ride across the Golden Gate Bridge and a visit to Fisherman's Wharf for the sea lions), the journey begins along the famed Pacific Coast Highway via pretty towns and beauty spots such as Big Sur, Carmel and Monterey. Storms and heavy rain last year caused landslides that closed parts of the road, but it's now back up and running again for the 2019 season. Along the way, kids will love spotting animal icons such as California sea otters, plus massive humpback whales that feed just offshore. 

The journey continues to Los Angeles, where a visit to Universal Studios (admission included in the price) can take advantage of the next generation "Jurassic World" ride (new for 2019), while teens will also love touring Hollywood, Beverly Hills and the Sunset Strip on a Celebrity Tour (also included in the price). Finally, round off the road-trip adventure with a few days on the beach in Santa Monica and in San Diego (whose famous zoo is a family favourite). A two-week trip combining flights (from Heathrow, Manchester or Glasgow), quality accommodation, car hire and a personalised "road book" containing detailed driving directions and travel tips costs from around £2,695pp (child prices also available). Call 0800 316 0194 for further details.

Swap the slopes for a snowy escape at Quebec’s coolest winter festival - 

Quebec  Winter Carnival 8-17 February 2019

Winter holidays are all about wrapping up warm and hitting the slopes - but hurtling down a snowy piste might not be everyone's cup of Glühwein. For those who'd prefer a winter escape mixing snow-covered scenes with some big-city culture, a trip to eastern Canada ticks all the boxes.

A particular highlight of the season is the Quebec Winter Carnival, a family-friendly event held in the heart of this Francophile city from 8-17 February 2019. Combining outdoor concerts, fireworks, parades and impressive ice sculptures, it's a one-of-a-kind celebration of the sparkling Canadian winter.

North America specialist Bon Voyage suggests combining the festival with a visit to mighty Niagara falls (which glistens with icicles in winter) and a city break in cosmopolitan and charming Montreal. Departing in February to coincide with the festival, this three-centre winter wonderland trip costs from £1,595pp to include flights (from London, Manchester or Glasgow) to Toronto; three nights each in Toronto, Montreal and Quebec (four-star hotels, room-only); a day-trip to Niagara Falls; and inter-city transfers by train. Call (0800) 316 0194 for further details.

Festive Fun in New York

Nowhere does wintery city breaks quite as well as New York. With twinkling lights, festive window displays and the chance to ice skate in Central Park, the winter months are a magical time to visit the Big Apple. Better still, Bon Voyage has a saving of £155 per person on a 3-night mini-break, valid throughout November. Costing from £859pp, the package includes flights from London to JFK, three nights (room-only) in a 4 star hotel classically elegant, four-star Bowery Hotel (on the Lower East Side, close to SoHo and Little Italy) and a skating session at the Rockefeller Center and Afternoon Tea, plus tickets for two to see the Radio City Christmas Spectacular on Broadway. Must be booked by 5 November. Other durations, shows and hotels are available. Please call Bon Voyage on 0800 316 0194 for further details..

The Out Islands of the Bahamas - as featured in The Telegraph

Flights from Heathrow to North Eleuthera, return water taxi transfers to Harbour Island and three nights at the boutique Coral Sands Hotel plus private transfers to The Cove on Eleuthera for four nights.  

Other durations and hotels are available, contact Bon Voyage on 0800 316 0194 for further details.

Great Lakes - Escorted Tour

Bon Voyage offer a seven-night ‘Great Lakes Explorer’ holiday package from £2,995 per person. Including return flights from London Heathrow to Chicago with British Airways, professional guide, transportation, welcome reception, one dinner and one lunch, a round trip on Mackinac Island ferry, and seven nights’ accommodation. (2 nights’ in Chicago / 1 night in Traverse City / 2 nights’ in Mackinac Island / 2 nights’ in Milwaukee). Price based on two adults sharing and travelling on 24 May 2019. and 30 August 2019. For more details please call (0800) 316 0194 or email sales@bon-voyage.co.uk

CMA's -Plan ahead to snap up tickets for next summer's ultimate hoedown

Next summer may seem a long way off, but that's how far ahead you need to plan if you love country music. Nashville, Tennessee is country music's official home, and its CMA (Country Music Association) festival is one of Music City's most popular events. Held each year in the first week of June, the festival is now considered one of the USA's hottest events and sees the genre's top performers gather for four days of boot-scootin' concerts. It's so popular, in fact, that tickets sell out way in advance - often within days of going on sale - so booking ahead is essential if music fans don't want to miss out.

Tickets combined into holiday packages will go on sale on Tuesday 7 August, and North America specialist Bon Voyage is offering country cowboys and girls the chance to pre-register before they sell out. As one of only a handful of tour operators to offer CMA packages, Bon Voyage includes festival tickets with flights, accommodation and benefits such as assigned seating at headline events and admission to Fan Fair X, where attendees get to meet-and-greet their country music icons. As all Bon Voyage holiday packages are tailor-made, festival-goers can extend their musical journeys to visit Memphis, New Orleans, Dolly Parton's Dollywood or even get away from it all with a few days in a Smoky Mountains log cabin.

"Interestingly, a majority of our CMA bookings come from Scotland," reveals Alan Wilson, Bon Voyage's Managing Director. "But then, perhaps that isn't surprising: country music has its roots in Appalachia, whose first European settlers came from the Scottish lowlands and northern England, bringing their traditions - including their music - with them. It seems our Scottish customers find a sense of affinity in today's country music."

Prices are under wraps until the festival goes on sale on 7th August 218, but music fans can pre-register their interest by calling 0800 316 0194 or visiting www.bvusa.co/cma2019 .

The Great Lakes - as featured in The Sunday Times

You can follow in her footsteps on our Great Expectations fly-drive tour which starts in either Chicago or St Louis. 

All Bon Voyage holidays are tailor-made, please contact our experts on (0800) 316 0194 for further details. 

Lest we forget......As featured in the Sunday Mirror

We have lift-off...

All eyes will to turn to space, the final frontier, next month when NASA launches a solar probe that will boldly go into the sun's atmosphere. At its closest approach, the Parker Solar Probe will hurtle around the sun at approximately 430,000 miles per hour - fast enough to travel from Philadelphia to Washington DC in one second. Even so, it's expected to take around seven years to get there, whereupon it will gather data on solar winds and energetic particles. Countdown to lift-off will begin on Saturday 4 August at Florida's Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. 

The hottest ticket in town on launch day will be Kennedy Space Center, the visitor complex otherwise known as "Florida's gateway to space". Located one small step from Orlando, the attraction will be the nearest public viewing spot to the launch site and offers behind-the-scenes access to NASA's space story, the chance to meet an actual astronaut and photo opportunities beside the legendary Space Shuttle Atlantis. 

For those keen to witness the launch for themselves, North America specialist Bon Voyage is offering a package that includes flights to Orlando, car rental, three nights accommodation in Cape Canaveral, a two-day pass to Kennedy Space Center (including lunch with an astronaut) and a four-night beach break in Vero Beach to help recover from all the excitement. Departing 3 August, the holiday costs from £1,875 per adult and £1,698 per child (based on a family of four travelling together). Call Bon Voyage on 0800 316 0194 for further details.

Skydive over the Grand Canyon

You can hike it, raft it or take a helicopter ride over it, but surely there's no more thrilling way to experience the Grand Canyon than skydiving. As well as being one of the world's foremost natural wonders, the Grand Canyon also happens to be one of the planet's top ten skydive sites, earning the experience a place on many a bucket list. Better still, the canyon is easily accessible from Las Vegas, making this extreme adventure a highlight of a Sin City break.

North America specialist Bon Voyage has recently expanded its Vegas product to include a tandem skydiving day-trip to the canyon. The experience includes transfers (with a pit-stop at Hoover Dam), tuition and a scenic flight to jumping altitude, which lies a dizzying two miles above ground. What follows is a 45-second freefall where participants and their instructors attain speeds of up to 120mph. Then, with parachutes deployed, there's ample time to admire the scenery (if you dare to open your eyes) on the gentle glide back to terra firma.

Bon Voyage can package the skydive experience with any of their tailor-made holiday to North America. For further details, please call the team of experts on (0800) 316 0194 

Palm Springs, San Diego and Las Vegas - June 2018

West Coast, USA, Three-Centre with convertible car hire: Bon Voyage offers a 12-night fly-drive holiday to Palm Springs, San Diego and Las Vegas staying in 5-star accommodation – 4 nights in location each from £1725 person – saving up to £385 per person. Includes flights to Los Angeles ex Heathrow, Manchester and Glasgow, 12-nights room only in the Hyatt Regency Indian Wells, Kona Kai and the Bellagio. Departing now to 20 June 2018. All Bon Voyage holidays can be tailor-made to your exact requirements. For further details call (0800) 316 0194.

As featured in the Mail On Sunday - Tumbling River Ranch

Tumbling River Ranch is an award-winning Colorado dude ranch and one of the top family resort ranches in the Rockies. It offers a marvellous location nestled in a secluded valley high in the Rocky Mountains, and a only a two-hour drive or transfer from Denver International Airport.

Cost per adult arriving in June would be from £2555 per person and includes:

Flights to Denver ex Heathrow, Manchester ot Glasgow, airport transfers, 7 nights accommodations (rooms have private baths and fireplaces), meals, facilities (heated pool, hot tubs), personalised horsemanship program, evening activities, guided hiking programs, fitness and wellness classes, shooting sports, fishing on our private ponds and fly-fishing clinics, vehicle trips, and the overnight pack-trip. Children's programmes and prices are also available. Please call Bon Voyage for further details on (0800) 316 0194.

American Queen Christmas Cruise - as featured in The Scottish Sun

You are corgirally invited to...........

Royal Corgi Party at Surf City, USA – Huntington Beach: Bon Voyage (bon-voyage.co.uk 0800 316 0194) offers a 7-night luxury break over the ‘World’s Biggest Corgi Party’ being held in Surf City on 23^rd June when hundreds of Corgi owners from all over California come to party with their Royal dogs! Prices start from £1995 per person and include flights to LA from Heathrow, Manchester, Glasgow – convertible car hire and accommodation in the 5-star Hyatt Regency Resort & Spa – room only. Departs 18/19/20/21/22 June.

Stay in Patsy Cline's home in Nashville - as featured in The Sun.

Georgia On My Mind - as featured in the Express

Gumbo-Tastic - dining in New Orleans  - As featured in the Independent.

"The 50 greatest adventures on Earth" as featured in the Sunday Telegraph Feb '18

For further details call (0800) 316 0194. 

"The Ten Best USA Road Trips" as featured in the Mail On Sunday March 2018

Memphis & Mississippi - Civil Rights as featured in the Sunday Telegraph - March 2018

Check out our new USA Civil Rights tour which includes a visit to the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, the site of Dr Martin Luther King's assassination. 

To include USA Civil Rights landmarks in your tailor-made holiday to the USA contact the experts at Bon Voyage on (0800) 316 0194 

Freedom of the open road

Outdoor adventures don't come on a grander scale than in Western Canada's amazing National Parks. Self-drive motor-home holidays are one of the best ways to explore the region; but limited accommodation options mean that the best campsites often book up well in advance. Side-step this inconvenience with North America travel specialist Bon Voyage, which is the only operator offering pre-booked pitches at even the most sought-after campsites (new for 2018, and all backed up with 24/7 assistance en route).

 All itineraries are tailor-made, but Bon Voyage suggests the Western Canada: Sea to Sky (from £3,925pp: , a 21-night adventure taking in cities, villages, beaches, gardens and rugged coastal scenery, with highlights including Banff and Jasper National Parks, Wells Gray Provincial Park and the legendary Icefield's Parkway. Alternatively, try a "Two Nation Vacation" combining the best of North America's national parks (including Glacier and Yellowstone in the US and Canada's Banff and Jasper) from £3,695pp.  For further details call the experts on (0800) 316 0194

"Best New Trips for 2018" - Wanderlust 

For full details on this holiday click here, or call (0800) 316 0194.

"20 Great Canadian Adventures" - As featured in The Times 17 February 2018

Palm Spring - Desert Oasis Adventure.

Palm Springs has long been known as Hollywood’s Playground, thanks to its location just two-hours from LA and boasts 350 days of sunshine. Although renowned for its modernist architecture, Palm Springs is also the perfect base for a desert adventure. The Palms Springs Aerial Tramway is the world’s largest revolving aerial tramway and transports visitors from the desert into the alpine landscape of the San Jacinto Mountains, while the Indian Canyons, located on Agua Caliente tribal land, are a must-see. Undisturbed natural beauty is combined with remarkably easy access, with the canyons just minutes from downtown Palm Springs.

Included in the trip:

• Palm Springs Aerial Tramway ride
• Indian Canyons Jeep & Hiking Eco Tour
• San Andreas Fault Sunset experience
• Stargazing Jeep Eco Tour
• Accommodation at the new Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs (Opened November 2017)

Return flights from UK to Palm Springs (indirect), Jan-Mar 2018 from £2,395 per person.

Based on 2 adults staying at the NEWLY opened Kimpton Rowan hotel in the heart of Palm Springs, walking distance to all the shops and restaurants and with stunning views of the mountains.

Includes morning coffee and tea service, hosted evening social hour and use of bikes. 

See in the New Year in New Orleans

New Orleans, one of America's oldest and most colourful cities, celebrates its tricentennial in 2018. 

New Year's Eve packages depart 28 or 30^th December 2017

• American Airlines flights ex LHR MAN GLA to New Orleans
• 5 nights at the 5-star Intercontinental Hotel
• Walking tour of the historic French Quarter
• Paddle steamer cruise on the mighty Mississippi
• Famous Oak Alley Plantation Home tour

Other hotels/durations are available, please call Bon Voyage on 0800 316 0194 for further details. 

New - Mississippi Civil Rights Museum.

Watch a ‘Symphony Under the Stars’ at Jasper’s Dark Sky Festival

As daylight hours begin to recede in Jasper National Park, stargazers come out to explore the night sky in the annual Jasper Dark Sky Festival, which this year runs 13 – 22^nd October.

Named one of Canada’s largest Dark Sky Preserves, Jasper National Park in Alberta, has very little light pollution, making it an ideal location to see the stars during its seventh annual Dark Sky Festival. Lucky stargazers are sometimes treated to a performance by the elusive Northern Lights.

During the festival, night sky experts gather to provide tours of the constellations, stars and planets above, while during the daytime, space-related activities take place around the Rocky Mountain town of Jasper. Brian Cox is one such speaker during this year’s second weekend from Friday 20^th – Sunday 22^nd October.

Visitors to the first weekend of this year’s festival can meet under the Milky Way and enjoy award-winning jazz musicians Tommy Banks and PJ Perry on the Friday night (13^th October). Witness the magic of the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra melodic ‘Symphony Under the Stars’ performance on the Saturday under one of the largest Dark Sky preserves.

Leaf Peeping in The Capital Region 

This last-minute package is valid for 09 – 15 October 2017, priced from £1225 per person and includes:

• International Return Flights with British Airways (LHR/IAD)
• Car hire with SAT Nav
• 2 nights at The Laurance Hotel in Luray, Virginia
• 4 nights at The Wisp Resort, Maryland in a luxury King Room.

For further details on the above and other Fall packages call Bon Voyage on 0800 316 0194.

Graceland Getaway

£1095 per person: Elvis’ Guest House at Graceland – for a five-night stay at the luxurious Guest House – situated alongside Elvis’ former home at Graceland in Memphis – with US specialist, Bon Voyage. This special price, for departures in November, includes return flights from Heathrow, Manchester or Glasgow, transfers from the airport to hotel, five nights’ room-only accommodation, a VIP tour of Graceland, entrance to the new Elvis’ Memphis Exhibition (the world’s largest collection of his memorabilia), admission to Sun Studios, plus a tour of the Rock’n’Soul Museum. Other durations/hotels are available please call 0800 316 0194 for further details.

Toronto, Niagara Falls & New York

£1545 per person (saving £155): Toronto/New York duo with day-trip to Niagara Falls – for a seven-night 
holiday combining four nights in the dynamic lakeside city of Toronto with three nights in diverse New York – with Bon Voyage. This twin share price, for travel between September and the end of November, includes return flights from Heathrow, day-trip with lunch to Niagara Falls, internal flight and seven nights’ four-star room-only accommodation – four nights at the Double Tree by Hilton Hotel and three nights at the Intercontinental Hotel. Call Bon Voyage on 0800 316 0194 for further details.

Space Centre Houston + Kennedy Space Centre - as featured The Times Travel Doctor 

San Diego in October Half-Term - Sunday Times 

US specialist, Bon Voyage, reckons that San Diego ticks all the boxes at October half term.

Not only can families enjoy sunshine and beach life, but the Kids Free San Diego promotion means that children can enjoy free entry into attractions such as SeaWorld San Diego, the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Safari Park.

Youngsters also enjoy free entry into more than 30 museums and there are ‘kids eat free’ promotions in many San Diego restaurants too.

Beach fans are spoilt for choice. Worth checking out are Mission Beach, Pacific Beach, Ocean Beach and La Jolla, each great for swimming, surfing and boogie boarding.

Prices for a seven-night holiday lead in at £1549 per adult and £555 per child (two-11 years) inclusive of return Heathrow flights, family-size car hire and seven nights’ room-only accommodation at the four-star Kona-Kai Hotel. Prices based on two adults and two youngsters sharing. Other hotels and durations are available. Please call Bon Voyage for further details on (0800) 316 0194. 

'Big Easy' Break

New Orleans makes the perfect getaway trip at any time of the year – with music, food, festivals and cocktails available 24/7!

Bon Voyage is offering a long weekend in New Orleans between October 2017 and April 2018 from £1265 per person including;

• British Airways non-stop flights to New Orleans from London Heathrow
• Three nights at the luxury Monteleone Hotel on the edge of the historic French Quarter 
• A 'Cocktail Walking Tour' of the best bars in the French Quarter.

For further details please call Bon Voyage on 0800 316 0194.

Festive Graceland Getaway for fans of ‘The King’

The opportunity for fans of ‘The King’ to experience the festive season at The Guest House - the most significant enhancement to Graceland since it opened in 1982 - is the offer from US specialist, Bon Voyage.

2017 is a significant time for Elvis fans as its marks the 40^th anniversary of his death and all who visit over the Christmas period will experience the warmth and southern hospitality that Elvis was famous for.  

The interior is decked out in Christmas splendour too and includes traditional Presley red velvet drapes and treasured family Christmas baubles and ornaments.

This five-night Festive Graceland Getaway – available for departures between 20 November and 5 January – costs from £1395 per person.

This twin share price includes return Heathrow flights, transfers, room-only accommodation in a luxury double room at The Guest House, a VIP tour of Graceland (including the Elvis in Hollywood exhibition) and entrance to Elvis Presley's Memphis Entertainment Complex.

Other highlights include a nightly showing of an Elvis movie in the hotel’s theatre, live music and entertainment, an Elvis Christmas CD and commemorative ornament, plus admission to Sun Studios in Memphis. For further details contact Bon Voyage on 0800 316 0194   

Autumn in New England and Niagara Falls

Witness The Great American Eclipse in Music City

£2995 per person: The music scenes of Nashville and Memphis, plus the total solar eclipse sweeping across the US on 21 August. This two-centre holiday, on offer on 19 or 20 August with Bon Voyage, combines four nights in the music city of Nashville (taking in the solar eclipse on 21 August when the city will turn from day to night for two minutes) with four nights in Memphis, the birthplace of rock’n’roll. This twin share price includes return Heathrow flights, chauffeur transfers between cities and eight nights’ room-only four-star hotels -the Gaylord Opry Resort, Nashville and The Madison, Memphis.  Highlights – in addition to the once-in-a-lifetime celestial event – include entrance into Graceland, Sun Studios and the Rock n Roll Museum. Call Bon Voyage on 0800 316 0194 for further details.

Seattle, Portland & San Francisco By Rail

£2445 per person (saving £249): Three-centre rail holiday combining West Coast ‘cool’ cities of Seattle, Portland and San Francisco – let the ‘train take the strain’ on this 10-night holiday – for travel in September and October - with US specialist, Bon Voyage. The holiday combines three nights in each city, with transfers on the Coast Starlight train between Seattle and Portland (three hours) and Coast Starlight overnight transfers (17 hours) between Portland and San Francisco in superliner accommodation with all meals.  This twin share price includes return Heathrow flights, rail transfers (as above) and four-star room-only hotels. All Bon Voyage holidays can be tailor made, please call 0800 316 0194 for further details.  

Close Encounters of the Third Kind celebrates its 40^th anniversary

November 2017 is the 40^th anniversary of the awe-inspiring science fiction film, Close Encounters of the Third Kind written and directed by Stephen Spielberg and starring Richard Dreyfuss as Roy Neary, an everyday blue-collar worker whose life changes after an encounter with a UFO.

And, for those inspired by UFO’s and wish to celebrate the anniversary of the film with other fans, 14^th September sees the start of the first Devils Tower UFO Rendezvous, a three-day event which includes lectures from Field Investigators, Mufon – a non-profit organization that investigates cases of alleged UFO sightings – as well as guests speakers from NASA’s Unexplained Files.

This seven-night holiday – which includes two nights at Devils Tower – costs from £1289 per person (twin share) inclusive of return flights from Heathrow, Glasgow or Manchester, car hire and seven nights’ room-only hotels. For those who wish to check out the Festival, entrance is $99 per day.

Other sightseeing opportunities to combine with Devils Tower include Mount Rushmore, Badlands, the Custer State Park and the Crazy Horse Memorial. For further details contact Bon Voyage on 0800 316 0194 

As featured in the Daily Mail - Utah Escape.

Bon Voyage has seven nights in Utah from £2295 per person. The price is valid for travel in August 2017 and includes return nonstop Delta Air Lines flights from Heathrow to Salt Lake City, two nights in Salt Lake City at the Little America Hotel, three nights in Cedar City at the Best Western, two nights at the Capitol Reef Resort and three nights in Moab at the Sunflower Inn plus car hire for the duration. The price is based on two adults sharing room only accommodation. Please call Bon Voyage 0800 316 0194 for further details, or click here for Utah holiday ideas and inspiration. 

£1995 per person (saving £225): Canada’s 150^th birthday year – for a 14-night fly-drive holiday – celebrating the diversity of British Columbia and taking in Vancouver, Victoria and the Banff and Jasper National Parks – with Bon Voyage. Further highlights of the itinerary, on offer between 20 August and 30 September, include Whistler, Clearwater - gateway to Wells Gray Provincial Park – Nelson on Kootenay Lake and the Victorian town of Sun Peaks. This twin share price includes return Heathrow flights, car hire and 14 nights’ room-only four-star hotels and, of course, free ‘birthday’ entrance into National Parks. For further details call Bon Voyage on 0800 316 0194

'See What I have Done' - Lizzie Borden

Released this week on 2 May 2017, See What I Have Done by Sarah Schmidt reimagines the unsolved American true criminal case of the Borden murders in Massachusetts. On a summer morning in 1892, Lizzie’s father and step-mother were found brutally murdered.  Lizzie Borden is thirty two years old, living at home and becomes a suspect. After the trial she is found innocent. To this day, no one has been convicted of the crime.

Known for being the Borden family home, the Lizzie Borden Bed and Breakfast Museum in Fall River, Massachusetts is the perfect place to immerse yourself in this murder story. The Victorian house, with a wicked past, invites guests to stay in any of the 8 bedrooms. Not brave enough to stay? Tours of the house are provided daily 11:00 – 15:00.

Where else can visitors test their fears in Massachusetts

In the most haunted hotel in Boston – The Omni Parker House . It is said that the ghost of the original owner (Harvey Parker) continues to roam the halls of the hotel. Sights of the ghost usually come out on the 10^th floor and he visits room 1078 occasionally. Apparently, there’s also a gathering of ghosts on the 3^rd floor - in room 303.  And, the elevators have been known to stop for no reason.

Salem offers visitors a Halloween experience all year round.The city of Salem on the north coast of Massachusetts is famous for the 1692 witch trials. Visitors can find out more about the twenty innocent individuals who were executed for being in pact with the Devil, at the Salem Witch Museum. Experience the performance that relives the story at the Witch Dungeon Museum . Visitors can also visit the home of the judge, Jonathan Corwin at Witch House . There is also a Witch Trails Memorial which includes twenty granite benches inscribed with the name and date of each execution. Visitors can also discover witch city during an after dark walking tour, an historical walking tour led by a Salem native and modern witch. There is a wide array of witch shops, each offering their own type of magic found in Salem.

Take me to mysterious Massachusetts:

Inspired by the release of this new book, Bon Voyage is offering a seven night package from £1195 per person including return flights from London Heathrow to Boston Logan International Airport, three nights in Boston, Omni Parker, two nights in Salem in the Morning Glory B&B and two nights in the Lizzie Suite at the Lizzie Borden Bed and Breakfast Museum including car hire. Price based on room only, two people sharing and travel in October 2017.  For further details, please call the team of USA experts at Bon Voyage on 0800 316 0194. 

New York & Bahamas All-Inclusive Resort

£2345 per person (saving £455): Big Apple and Bahamas beach side duo – for a 10-night ‘shop and flop’ holiday – combining three nights at the four-star Gregory Hotel in New York with seven nights at the Breezes Resort in Nassau.This twin share price, for travel in June, July and August, includes return Heathrow flights, internal flight, room-only accommodation in New York and all-inclusive accommodation in an deluxe ocean view room in Nassau. Bookings must be made by 20 June. Call Bon Voyage on 0800 316 0194 for further details

As featured in the Daily Star - Oregon Fly-Drive

Bon Voyage offer an 11 day Oregon holiday using the Delta non-stop flight Heathrow, car hire for the duration and 10 nights’ accommodation from £1895 per person (based on two sharing in September)

Star Party at one of the seven natural wonders of the world...

An exciting fly-drive package combining the Grand Canyon Star Party, with Las Vegas and a sumptuous spa oasis in the desert city of Scottsdale, is the latest offering from US specialist, Bon Voyage.

The Grand Canyon Star Party, taking place between 17 and 24 June on the north and south rims, is an annual fun free event where astronomers share their knowledge - and telescopes - with all who are interested in the night sky.

The Grand Canyon is one of the best night sky observing sites in the US because it has some of the darkest skies and cleanest air in the country. At the ‘party’, Jupiter and Saturn will be evening highlights, along with an assortment of planets, double stars and star clusters and perhaps the Sun or Venus by day.

This 10-night three-centre holiday begins with four nights of pampering at the Westin Keirland Resort Spa in Arizona, before heading for the Star Party at the Grand Canyon for two nights of star gazing and sightseeing.  It concludes with four nights of fun in Sin City.

Twin share prices for this 10-night holiday lead in at £1875 per person inclusive of return BA direct flights from Heathrow, car hire and room-only five-star hotels (Scottsdale and Las Vegas), plus lodge accommodation at the Grand Canyon. For further information call Bon Voyage on 0800 316 0194 

Tennessee - Music and Mountains

£1669 per person (saving £259): Fly-drive holiday of the Deep South – for an 11-night holiday - taking in the states of Georgia, Tennessee, Mississippi and Alabama and packed with history, incredible scenery, iconic sights and, of course, fabulous music – with US specialist, Bon Voyage. Highlights include Atlanta, Tupelo (birthplace of Elvis), Memphis, Music City ,Nashville, Dollywood plus the Great Smoky Mountains and Blue Ridge Mountains.  This twin share price, for travel in June, includes return Heathrow flights, car hire and 11 nights’ room-only accommodation in B&Bs, inns and resort hotels. For full details click here or call 0800 316 0194. 

Escorted Eclipse Tour - Oregon Coast

On 21 August 2017, a once-in a lifetime solar eclipse will occur over the Oregon Coast in the USA. 

US specialist tour operator, Bon Voyage, has today launched a limited space, 5-night/6-night along the Oregon coast which will put visitors right in the path of totality. The tour includes a naturalist guided eclipse tour and two nights at the luxurious Salishan Spa & Golf Resort on Gleneden Beach.

Spaces are limited with two groups of only eight guests being available. Each group will be led by an expert guide and transported in luxurious Mercedes Sprinter Vans. The tour will start and end in Portland.

After the first two nights in Portland at the Modera Hotel, travellers will be collected on the morning of day three and transported in style to the Oregon coast. On the way visitors will stretch their legs at one of Oregon’s most spectacular viewing points, Fcola State Park, before continuing along the coast to the scenic Three Capes Loop and Cape Kiwanda, with time to climb the dunes. The small group will then spend two nights at Salishan Spa and Golf Resort.

The next morning, guests are free to relax and enjoy the hotel’s wide variety of facilities before witnessing the momentous occasion from the hotel grounds. Following the eclipse, the group will head off on a whale-watching boat tour. There’s then free time to explore the quaint downtown of Newport and see the sea lions on the floating docks, before enjoying a hosted meal showcasing the abundance of delicious local seafood.

En route back to Portland on day five, the tour will stop at Willamette Valley, known for its crisp white wines and subtle pinot noirs, before spending the final night in Portland.

Don’t miss out:

The 5 night/6 day tour departing 18th August costs from £3,599 per person and includes direct return flights with Virgin Atlantic, three nights at the Modera Hotel in Portland, two nights at Salishan Spa and Golf Resort, luxury transportation from and back to Portland, and meals as detailed in itinerary.

Graceland Getaway as featured in The Sun

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How to see the Horsetail Firefall, Yosemite -as featured in the Sunday Times

 “Crazy as it sounds, the original Yosemite Firefall was exactly that. It started in 1872, when Fred and John McCauley — the sons of a local hotelier — would lead mules laden with firewood to the top of Glacier Point, in Yosemite National Park. Once they’d got a big fire going, they’d kick the glowing embers over the edge of the 3,000 ft cliff, thrilling the tourists down in the valley.

The feast of pyromania caused huge damage, and in 1968 the authorities finally put an end to it. But it’s been replaced by a phenomenon that’s even more spectacular, and 100% natural. Every year, in the last two weeks of February, the setting sun hits the 1,570 ft Horsetail Fall at exactly the right angle to turn it into what appears to be a cataract of orange fire. It looks magical, but if you’re going to see it, the circumstances must be just right. First, there must be enough snow on the top to provide the melt water to feed the falls (which is why the firefall doesn’t occur in October, when the sun is at the same angle). Second, the sky must be clear in the west. Even if these conditions are met, this natural wonder lasts for only 10 minutes — but it’s 10 minutes you won’t forget.

Horsetail Firefall is so popular — especially with photographers — that if you want to see it next year, you’ll need to book your accommodation now. A seven-day fly-drive, spending five nights at the Yosemite View Lodge hotel and one in San Francisco, starts at £995pp, including flights and car hire. For further details contact Bon Voyage on 0800 316 0194” 

Appeared 23/04/2017.

The World's Largest FREE Blues Festival

£1795 (saving £125): Chicago Blues Festival and Memphis duo – for a nine-night two-centre break combining the Chicago Blues Festival (the world’s largest free Blues Festival taking place on four stages in Millennium Park between 9-11 June) with four nights in the ‘Rock’n’Roll’ city of Memphis – with Bon Voyage. The twin share price of £1795 per person, for departures on 7, 8 or 9 June, includes return Heathrow, Manchester or Glasgow flights, four nights’ room-only at the five-star Palmer Hilton Hotel in Chicago (within walking distance of the festival) and four nights’ room-only at the four-star Sheraton Downtown Memphis, a stroll from Beale Street. Transfers between cities onboard the overnight City of New Orleans train - with superliner accommodation and all meals - is also included. For further details contact Bon Voyage on 0800 316 0194.  

Vancouver and Victoria - Western Canada

£1795 (saving £159) per person: West Coast Canada – No need to hire a car on this 10-night trip to British Columbia with specialist Bon Voyage. Start with five nights in Vancouver, BC’s cool capital blending cafe culture with creative arts and city sights. Then take a ferry transfer to Vancouver Island for five nights of coastal fun in picturesque Victoria. Departures before 30 June, including Heathrow flights, island transfers, four-star hotels (twin-share, room only), Vancouver city tour, whale-watching trip and Butchart Gardens entry in Victoria. Call 0800 316 0194 for further details 

Teepees, Treehouses & Tearaways - as feaured in The Sunday Times Magazine.

Our 14-night new itinerary of the Lone Star State. Texas, includes quirky stays in historic, small towns, ranches, forests, rejuvention resorts and plantation country.    

• 2-nights in Dallas, Fort Worth in the historic Stockyard Hotel in the Bonnie & Clyde room where the notorious duo hung out in 1933.
• 2-nights in Mason in the Tres Lunas Zen Resort for relaxation, renewal and rejuvenation at this resort in Texas Hill Country.
• 3-nights in Bandera at the homely Dixie Dude Ranch, an old time, small, working stock ranch in the "Cowboy Capital of the World".
• 1-night in New Braunfels at the Gruene Homestead with accommodation in a loft apartment in a 1940's grain silo. 
• 2-nights in Branham at the Scenic Hill B&B. This 100 year old farmhouse boasts a treehouse tucked away in the grounds with a swing on the front deck.
• 1-night in Wharton at the TeePee Motel. Built in 1942 and refurbished in 2006 by a couple of lottery winners, this is concrete kitsch at its best!
• 3-nights in Nacogdoches (the oldest town in Texas) at the Llano Grande Plantation Home.  Located deep in the Piney Woods of East Texas, the elegant homes in the grounds are on the list of National Historic Places.

Twin share prices start at £1995 per person inclusive of return flights to Dallas from Heathrow, Manchester or Glasgow, car hire, room-only accommodation (as above) and a personalised road book. For further details contact Bon Voyage on 0800 316 0194. 

Solar Eclipse Two-Centre Rail Holiday Portland & San Francisco

On 21 August 2017 the USA will experience the Great American Eclipse . This eclipse will sweep the nation from Oregon on the Pacific Coast to South Carolina on the Atlantic Coast and will be the first total eclipse visible only in the USA since the country was founded in 1776. 

Around one third of the US population is expected to drive into the belt of the solar eclipse on 21 August 2017, making hotel availability extremely scarce says US specialist, Bon Voyage.

However, for those keen to experience this amazing phenomenon the company is highlighting its two-centre Portland/San Francisco rail holiday, which includes a day’s excursion from Portland to the Oregon Science and Industry Museum where a solar eclipse party is taking place.

The museum is located in the Willamette Valley, an area where the moon will block the sun’s light for two full minutes and visitors can experience nature’s greatest show. Lunch and wine tasting at two of the Valley’s wineries follows. 

Twin share prices start at £2395 per person inclusive of return flights, room-only hotels, rail transfers and excursions above. For further details call (0800) 316 0194.

Riding the Outlaw Trail with Butch Cassidy in Utah 

Bon Voyage offers an eight-night Butch Cassidy Trail fly-drive from £1695 per person. The price includes flights to Salt Lake City with Delta Airlines, car hire, accommodation in the Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City, Butch Cassidy Hideout Cafe and Motel in Circleville, Torrey School House B&B, Whispering Pines Motel in Hanksville, Ramada Hotel in Price and Sundance Resort Mountain Resort in Sundance. For further details call 0800 316 0194.

For holidays to Utah click here.

The Finest USA Ranch Stays – as featured in Hero & Leander

Is one ranch stay not enough? Well then Bon Voyage are offering a 10 night twin-centre luxury ranch-stay holiday in the Real America states of Montana and Wyoming from £11,995 per person. The price includes direct BA flights from LHR to Denver, return private airport transfers between Denver and accommodation in Wyoming, return internal flights between Denver and Missoula, Montana, five nights at Brush Creek Ranch in Saratoga, Wyoming followed by five nights at  The Resort at Paws Up in Greenough, Montana and return private airport transfers from Missoula. The price is based on two adults travelling and sharing accommodation. Valid for travel in May 2017. For further information call Bon Voyage on 0800 316 0194

American Duchess - as featured in The Sunday Times Best 100 Holidays of 2017

This floating boutique cruiser, created from a 1995 hull, will carry up to 166 guests in luxury and will follow itineraries of her sister vessel, The American Queen, along the Lower Mississippi from Memphis to New Orleans. In a new move for the cruise line, the ship will also offer stays in port, notably in the heart of Nashville. 

Lead in prices start at £4595 per person (twin share) for an 11-night holiday which include return flights from Heathrow, transfers on arrival, two nights in the historic Peabody Hotel in Memphis prior to cruise and seven nights’ full-board five-star accommodation – with gourmet meals - in an interior suite cabin. The holiday ends with two nights at The Montelone Hotel in the historic French Quarter of in New Orleans. Private transfers and tours in both Memphis and New Orleans are also include. 

Also included is 24-hour room service, complimentary wine and beer with dinner (plus soft drinks throughout the voyage), excursions to riverside towns of note, daily lectures by a Riverlorian (an onboard history and culture expert) plus city tours in Memphis and New Orleans. For further details call the experts at Bon Voyage on 0800 316 0194, to order a brochure click here.  

Western Canada by Motorhome

£1565 per person: Motorhome freedom in Canada – for a 14-night holiday beginning with two nights in Vancouver followed by 12 nights exploring western Canada by motorhome – with North America specialist, Bon Voyage. This twin share price, applicable throughout May, includes return Heathrow flights, two nights’ room-only hotels in Vancouver, transfer to motorhome depot and C-25 motorhome hire with all insurances and personal kits.  Campgrounds can be pre-booked by Bon Voyage if required.  Please call 0800 316 0194 for further details. 

Motorhome Adventure Plus Luxury Arizona Stay

£1415 per person (saving £295): Luxury Scottsdale desert resort combined with the National Parks of Arizona and Utah – for 10 nights of contrasts taking in three nights of luxury at the four-star Hilton Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona, and seven nights in a motorhome exploring the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley and Canyonlands of Arizona and Utah – with Bon Voyage. This twin share price, for departures in April and May, includes return Heathrow flights to Phoenix, room-only in Scottsdale and seven nights’ motor home hire (with insurances and personal kits). Call 0800 316 0194 for further details. 

An Easter motorhome family adventure in America’s Canyonlands 

This is a relaxed pre-planned 14-night holiday; the driving distances between sights are relatively short and families can chill in the knowledge that the most-sought after pitches have been pre-booked for them in all the national parks.

Further highlights of the itinerary, which begins with a night in a five-star hotel in Las Vegas, include Lake Powell, Monument Valley, Deadhorse National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park and Valley of the Five State Park.

Prices start at £1795 per adult and £1475 per child (based on two adults and two youngsters sharing) inclusive of return Heathrow, Manchester or Glasgow flights, overnight hotel in Las Vegas, 13 nights’ motorhome rental, pre-booked campsites for every night of the tour and a personalised road book, with detailed day-to-day driving instructions.

Also included is a comprehensive motorhome package with unlimited mileage, personal kits (blankets, sheets, pillows and towels) and a full tank of LPG gas. 

California Family Fun - as featured in The Sunday Times Travel Magazine 2017 

This 13-night California Family Fun Adventure will suit everyone in the family. From biking the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco to camping under the stars in awesome Yosemite National Park. From whale watching along the scenic California coast to the thrilling theme park rides of southern California. For tailor made holidays to California call the experts at Bon Voyage on 0800 316 0194.  

U.S. by Train - as featured in the Daily Mail by Michael Portillo 

“50 Great things to do in America - 2017” as featured in the Daily Telegraph 

The Kentucky Derby, Louisville  Nicknamed the “Run for the Roses” or the “Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports”, the Blue Riband of American thoroughbred racing dates back to 1875. Run in early May, this 1¼ mile flat race combines the excitement of Epsom with the fashions of Ascot. On Bon Voyage’s five-day Kentucky Derby extravaganza, you get VIP treatment and watch from the exclusive Stakes Room Balcony overlooking the finish line. From £7,465 per person. Call 0800 316 0194 for further details.

Cherry Blossom Festival, DC.

£1169: Washington DC’s National Cherry Blossom Festival plus historic Philadelphia– for a two-centre break combining the breathtaking shades of white and pink of Washington during its Cherry Blossom Festival, with historic Philadelphia (home to America’s most historic square mile) – with US specialist, Bon Voyage. This six-night trip is available from 15 March to 16 April and the above price includes return flights from Heathrow, trail transfers between cities (a two-hour journey), three nights’ four-star room only hotels in Washington and Philadelphia, plus a sightseeing trolley tour in each city.  Call 0800 316 0194 for further details

Route 33!

£1795: Route 33 fly-drive holiday, a wintersun holiday with a difference – for this 11-night shorter version of Route 66 – which begins in Oklahoma City  and travels through New Mexico, Nevada, Arizona and ends in Santa Monica, California – with US specialist, Bon Voyage. This twin share price, for travel in March and April, includes return flights from Heathrow, Manchester or Glasgow, car hire, room-only hotels in sought after locations and a personalised road book and day-to-day driving itinerary. For further information call Bon Voyage on 0800 316 0194 

Free Weddings!

£1595 (saving £359): All-inclusive Bahamas – for seven nights of sunshine at the prestigious Breezes Resort – situated on Cable Beach – with Bon Voyage. This twin share price, for departures between 1 January and 31 March - includes return Heathrow flights and all-inclusive accommodation. As a bonus, for those planning to ‘tie the knot’ this price also includes a free wedding ceremony! Call 0800 316 0194 for further details.

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"All That Jazz" as featured in the Saturday Times by Aaron Miller

Half-Term California Family Holiday - as Featured In The Sunday Times  

Bon Voyage is highlighting its family-friendly Pacific Coast Highway itinerary for a February half-term getaway when, after two nights checking out San Francisco, families pick up a motorhome and travel along the most scenic part of the Highway – the Big Sur. It is a 250 mile journey between San Francisco and Los Angeles, so it’s a very leisurely trip which offers whale watching in towns such as Monterey and Santa Barbara (boat trips can be pre-booked), seaside towns such as Santa Cruz, Pismo Beach and Carmel by the Sea.  The tour can be ended with time in Universal Studios or Disneyland (Bon Voyage can pre-book tickets here too).

This seven-night holiday departs Heathrow on 11 February and costs £869 per adult and £765 per child (aged between two-11 years). This price is based on two adults and two youngsters travelling together and includes return flights, two nights’ room-only at the four-star Prescott Hotel and five nights’ motorhome rental. Other dates/durations are available. Please call Bon Voyage for further details on 0800 316 0194. 

New Orleans & Caribbean Cruise 

£1495 (saving 385): New Orleans/Caribbean cruise duo– for an 11-night wintersun holiday – combining four nights in the ‘Big Easy’ with a seven-night cruise on board the Norwegian Dawn cruising the Caribbean – with Bon Voyage. This twin share price, for departures between 1 December and 30 March (excluding the festive period), includes return Heathrow, Manchester or Glasgow flights, four nights’ room-only at the four-star Hilton Riverside in New Orleans (plus city tour) and a seven-night full-board cruise with beverage and gratuity package. Call 0800 316 0194 for further details. 

Escorted Eclipse Tour - Oregon Coast

On 21 August 2017, a once-in a lifetime solar eclipse will occur over the Oregon Coast in the USA. Accommodation has been booked up for a long time as travellers from all over the world want to see this phenomenon.

US specialist tour operator, Bon Voyage, has today launched a limited space, 5-night/6-night along the Oregon coast which will put visitors right in the path of totality. The tour includes a naturalist guided eclipse tour and two nights at the luxurious Salishan Spa & Golf Resort on Gleneden Beach.

Spaces are limited with two groups of only eight guests being available. Each group will be led by an expert guide and transported in luxurious Mercedes Sprinter Vans. The tour will start and end in Portland.

After the first two nights in Portland at the Modera Hotel, travellers will be collected on the morning of day three and transported in style to the Oregon coast. On the way visitors will stretch their legs at one of Oregon’s most spectacular viewing points, Fcola State Park, before continuing along the coast to the scenic Three Capes Loop and Cape Kiwanda, with time to climb the dunes. The small group will then spend two nights at Salishan Spa and Golf Resort.

The next morning, guests are free to relax and enjoy the hotel’s wide variety of facilities before witnessing the momentous occasion from the hotel grounds. Following the eclipse, the group will head off on a whale-watching boat tour. There’s then free time to explore the quaint downtown of Newport and see the sea lions on the floating docks, before enjoying a hosted meal showcasing the abundance of delicious local seafood.

En route back to Portland on day five, the tour will stop at Willamette Valley, known for its crisp white wines and subtle pinot noirs, before spending the final night in Portland.

Don’t miss out:  The 5 night/6 day tour costs from £3,599 per person and includes direct return flights with Virgin Atlantic, three nights at the Modera Hotel in Portland, two nights at Salishan Spa and Golf Resort, luxury transportation from and back to Portland, and meals as detailed in itinerary.

Winter Sun in The Florida Keys

The Florida Keys are the ideal destination for a winter sun road trip. Travel down through the sub-tropical paradise along the iconic Overseas Highway and across Seven Mile Bridge passing through the key districts of Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, Big Pine Key and Key West. Activities available include snorkelling and diving, paddle boarding and kayaking, a visit to the Turtle Hospital in Marathon and a stop at Bahia Honda State Park where the beach has been voted one of America's Top 10 beaches. 

Bon Voyage (0800 316 0194 ) offers 10 nights in The Florida Keys & Key West from £1,955 per person for travel in February 2017. The price includes direct American Airlines flights from LHR to Miami, convertible car hire for the duration and 10 nights' room only accommodation at newly opened properties (five nights at Key West's Oceans Edge Resort & Spa and five nights at Key Largo's Playa Largo Resort and Spa). The price is based on two adults travelling and sharing accommodation. Average February Temperature in the Keys: 22°C.

New York & The Bahamas

California Zephyr - Chicago to San Francisco

Get Your Kicks on R66

Little Palm Island, Florida

A wealth of luxury pampering treatments are available at SpaTerre, along with healing classes ranging from yoga to reiki. There’s also a freshwater lagoon pool, library, meditative garden, plus watersports such as diving, kayaking and sailing.  Dining options include candle lit restaurants and tables on the terrace overlooking the beach. 

Valentine Wedding in Vegas, Baby! - as featured in The Sun

FROM £1095: Vegas for Valentine’s – For glamour, glitz and the chance to get married in one of the famous wedding chapels, check out this deal from USA specialist Bon Voyage. 

Winter Wonderland in Alberta