Why not mix the Caribbean with New York City

for a grown-up escape when

the schools go back, says
Bon Voyage

With peak-season travel in full swing, families everywhere are having a ball on their 2024 summer breaks.

      But if you're not tied to travelling in the kids' school holidays, you're far better off bypassing the crowds and planning an adult-only escape the moment that the new term starts. And where better for grown-up thrills than magical New York? 

      As the ultimate city break destination, NYC offers chic hotels, fabulous shopping, and stacks of attractions, from strolls along the leafy High Line to the Empire State Building's top-of-the-world views.

      What's more, September sees summer's humidity abate, making this the perfect time to discover NYC and its urban buzz - all bathed in end-of-seasons sunshine and the bluest of skies.

      With so much to see and do in the city, you can expect a lot of pavement-pounding; and after living it up with cocktails, dinners and Broadway shows, you may want to give your credit card a breather. 

     So, Bon Voyage, the North America travel specialist, recommends relocating to Jamaica for a beach break at Sandals South Coast. Not only is this seafront resort adults-only all year round, it's also fully all-inclusive, so all your meals, drinks, water sports and entertainment come at no extra cost.

      With two miles of beach, three beachfront pools, nine speciality restaurants and seven bars, there's no need to limit your indulgence while you soak up the Caribbean sun in a pleasantly luxurious (and blessedly small-voice-free), palm-fringed environment.

     This epic 12-night, shop-and-flop twin centre holiday costs from £3,895pp and includes flights (from London, Manchester, or Glasgow), transfers, five nights' accommodation (room-only basis) in central New York, and seven nights (all-inclusive basis) in Jamaica.

     For bookings and more information,    call 0800 316 0194 or visit

www.bon-voyage.co.uk.

This year marks the 140th anniversary of the Adventures of Huckleberry Finn: perhaps the most famous off all the works by legendary author, Mark Twain.

      Set in a pre-Civil-War Deep South, the book (considered one of America's greatest novels) tells the story of two runaways and their journey down the river: a tale through which Twain explores the themes of prejudice, society, morality, and racism.

      The book remains significant as a window onto a time long past, and a testament to Twain's remarkable, thought-provoking storytelling.

      For Huck and his fellow runaway, Jim, the Mississippi signifies freedom: a sensation that modern-day visitors can experience when sailing the river with American Cruise Lines.

      This small-ship river cruise specialist plies the Mississippi year-round; and in addition to, its standard sailings, it offers a handful of special, Mark Twain-themed itineraries. 

      Taking place on the Upper Mississippi, these cruises explore the landscapes that served as Twain's inspiration and are accompanied in one particular port of call by a costumed Twain impersonator, bringing his story to life.

      Sailing between St Louis, Missouri and St Paul, Minnesota, passengers can take in the scenery from the comfort of privatebalconies as their riverboat takes in the region's history and grandeur. Stops along the way allow for kayaking or golf excursions, or to explore riverside communities packed with small-town charm.

      But the key port of call for Twain enthusiasts is his picturesque hometown, Hannibal, where the author's childhood home (pictured and now a museum) is a major attraction. A walking tour through Hannibal's historic downtown district - accompanied by a costumed interpreter - brings further depth to the experience by incorporating Twain's own words and observations.

     These themed Mark Twain cruises are incredibly popular: this summer's departures have already sold out, but availability remains for next season, which runs from July to October.

      Bon Voyage, the North America travel specialist, can package flights (from London, Manchester, or Glasgow), the 8-night cruise (all-inclusive) and one night's accommodation both pre- and post-cruise (room only) from £7,250pp, based on two people sharing in July 2025.

      For bookings and more information, call 0800 316 0194 or
visit www.bon-voyage.co.uk