Stargaze with Golden Eagle
Head to the Arctic Circle this winter with Golden Eagle Luxury Trains' Arctic Explorer – Quest for the Northern Lights itinerary. The 12-day journey begins in St Petersburg where visitors can explore and ring in the New Year, before crossing into the Arctic Circle. Travellers then head to Kirkenes, Norway, for a two-night stay at the Thon Hotel, followed by Murmansk, Petrozavodsk, the Unesco World Heritage Site of Vladimir, before ending their journey in Moscow. There will also be opportunities to see the Northern Lights. The 2016 tour takes off on December 29, priced from US$11,995 (Dh44,000) per person, based on a two-person share, and includes accommodation, meals, a guide and taxes. For more information, visit www.goldeneagleluxurytrains.com.
An artistic experience in Kyoto
Those heading to Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan, will want to check out the new Kyoto Artisans Concierge. Set up by the Kyoto Traditional Industry Foundation, affiliated with the Kyoto City Municipal Government, the concept provides an opportunity to visit private studios for a hands-on experience of local traditional crafts. Among the 20 studios participating will be lantern-maker Kobishiya Chube, founded approximately 220 years ago. Brothers Shun and Ryo Kojima have continued the traditional jibari-shiki lantern-making technique that is unique to Kyoto. A studio visit to Kobishiya Chube is priced at 3,800 yen (Dh139). For more information, visit www.kyotoartisans.jp/en/.
Explore Azerbaijan for less
Visit Azerbaijan's capital Baku this season for less with Nirvana Travel and Tourism's six-day holiday package. Visitors will receive a guided tour of the city – with complimentary bottled water, and can choose from four- or five-star accommodation. Dinner and lunch, and airport transfers are included. Packages start from Dh3,950 for four-star or Dh5,550 for five-star accommodation. Prices are based on a per person, double-sharing basis, and include taxes. For more information, visit www.ntravel.ae.
Sireeampan getaway to Chiang Mai
Grab some R&R and escape to Chiang Mai with Sireeampan Boutique Resort & Spa's Chiang Mai Getaway Package. The three-day package includes an excursion to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai's most famous temple. Also included is a daily "anywhere, anytime" breakfast, which includes a hamper for two, round-trip airport transfers and an outing to the city's Night Bazaar. The offer is available until September 30, from 21,980 baht (Dh2,331) for a two-night stay, including taxes. For more information, visit www.sireeampan.com.
alane@thenational.ae
