British Airways and VisitBritain launch Two Cities for the Price of One Promotion in Singapore

British Airways and VisitBritain are launching a joint campaign to inspire Singaporeans to sample the  myriad of sights and sounds that make Britain so unique - whether it be staying in a castle or finding out backstage secrets at a theatre or satisfying your cheese fix at a local food market. As an incentive to plan holidays in advance, British Airways is offering travellers the opportunity to visit two popular cities – pairing London with Edinburgh or Manchester – for the price of one, at only Sin$998.

Valid for travel from now until 31 October 2008, the promotion offers Singaporeans a well-deserved twin-city getaway with their families, friends or loved ones. With cost savings of up to Sin$100 on airfares and an additional 15% discount on UK hotels booked through ba.com, travellers can afford to indulge in unique experiences that will make their trip more memorable.

Steve Limbrick, Regional General Manager, South East Asia, British Airways says, “London is, understandably, the most popular travel destination in Britain. But, why stop there? As a nation steeped in history, with distinct regional characteristics, as well as such varied landscapes, it seems a pity not to venture outside the capital - especially when exciting, iconic, cities such as Manchester and Edinburgh are so accessible from London.

“With huge savings from the current promotion with VisitBritain, on top of British Airways’ year-round Sin$998 fare, we hope to inspire Singaporeans to make Britain a must-visit destination this year.”

As part of the joint promotion, VisitBritain hopes to share fresh perspectives of touring the vast country. Emma Paris, PR and Communications Manager, VisitBritain South East Asia said, “With this campaign we want to show people how to make the most of their trip to Britain not only with great savings on their airfare, but with fresh and inspiring ideas on how to experience it differently.

“Did you know that as well as visiting a castle you can also sleep in one? Or how about learning to cook at Rick Stein’s seafood school rather than just eating there. Instead of joining the masses on Oxford Street, how about spotting an up-and-coming designer or sampling local fare at one of London’s many street markets. With the money saved on travel there are endless imaginative and original ways to take a fresh look at Britain.”

British Airways and VisitBritain share some insights on how to discover a new side to London, Edinburgh and Manchester by venturing away from the popular tourist sites:

London needs little introduction. This vibrant, multi-cultural capital boasts the most buoyant and boisterous food and drink scene in the country. To sample the most authentic British cuisine, find a gastro pub which offers high-quality dining in a relaxed yet informal environment. Visit the grand-daddy of them all – The Eagle on Farringdon Road which is packed during lunch and dinner, serving delicious fare including sausage & lentils and freshly-baked custard tart.

Trying to impress but not burn a hole in the pocket? Make a reservation at 108 Marylebone Lane, a charming little establishment that uses the freshest ingredients to produce simple, yet classic, dishes. This relaxed bar and bistro represents neighbourhood dining at its best.

Edinburgh and its environs are blessed with many castles, often in stunning locations and filled with history. If you have always been captivated by the magnificence of castles, why not explore them in a different way? Secluded in the peaceful countryside, yet only 20 minutes from Edinburgh, a stay at Dalhousie Castle offers a fantastic opportunity to relax, try the outdoor activities or simply to enjoy the superb scenery.

A fan of the Da Vinci Code as well? Rosslyn Chapel, featured as the possible resting place of the Holy Grail, is only five miles from Dalhousie Castle.

Other than Manchester United and Old Trafford, Manchester boasts magnificent countryside with manor houses and winding canals. Go on a truly memorable trip on the Manchester Ship Canal Cruise along the 35-mile stretch of canal and take in spectacular scenery while learning about the history and dramas of one of Britain’s major waterways. The six-hour cruise is only available on selected dates from April to October 2008.

Choose a stop-over during the cruise at The Quays, Manchester's unique waterfront destination that hosts a wealth of world-class entertainment, leisure and cultural facilities including The Lowry and the Imperial War Museum. Only a stone’s throw away is Ordsall Hall, a Grade One listed manor house reputed to be England’s  most haunted house - not for the faint hearted.

And while you are in any of these cities, celebrate the season’s hottest colours at Harvey Nichols, an international luxury lifestyle store specialising in brand name merchandise.

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