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To mark World Poetry Day on 21 March 2019 why not pay homage to the life and work of Wales’ great poet, Dylan Thomas? This tailor-made itinerary visits his home town, Swansea, where you’ll spend two nights in the house where he was born, as well as his regular drinking spot, Browns Hotel, and the famous boat house in Laugharne where he spent his final years. There’s time to soak up superb Welsh scenery, too, during journeys on the Heart of Wales and Cambrian Lines, and on the Vale of Rheidol Railway. Departing 20 March (note this trip can be booked at any time of the year), the price is from £455 pp (two sharing), including four nights’ B&B, rail travel (from Swansea) and excursions.

Gastronomy, Gardens and a Floating Hotel! Renowned for its foodie culture yet still relatively under the radar as a European short break destination, Rotterdam’s a great choice for an Easter break. Enjoy a five-night stay on board the ss Rotterdam (former flagship of the HollandAmerica line, now a four-star hotel) as well a ‘Bike & Bite’ tour of the city (combining cycling with delicious snack stops), a ‘Super Combo’ tour with the world-famous Keukenhof Gardens and Euromast Tower, plus a cruise of Spido Harbour amongst its highlights, and a day trip to Amsterdam. Departing 18 April, the price from £855 pp (two sharing), including direct Eurostar from London, B&B and excursions.

For railway connoisseurs, there can be few experiences more alluring than the chance to enjoy sights not normally seen by the average passenger. This two-week, ‘access all areas’ itinerary takes in many of North Wales’ spectacular railways, from miniature to standard gauge, with footplate rides, workshop tours, expert talks and more. Departing 30 March, Behind the Scenes in North Wales costs from £2,610 pp (two sharing), including B&B (in Llandudno, Caernarfon, Porthmadog, Machynlleth & Llangollen), seven lunches, 11 evening meals, excursions and the services of a tour leader.

Whilst spring may be a way off yet, now’s the perfect time to start planning a delightful holiday for warmer days. Following the route of the mighty Elbe through Germany and the Czech Republic by rail and river, this escorted tour is certainly something to look forward to. Enjoy time exploring Hamburg, Prague, Magdeburg & Dresden, as well as excursions to narrow gauge steam railways, a cruise by paddle steamer and more. Departing 16 May, Elbe - Sea to Source costs from £2,270 pp (two sharing), including travel between your home station and London, rail out/flight back, 15-Day Global InterRail Pass, B&B, excursions & tour leader.