Etihad launches Belarus holiday promotion

The promotion offers a variety of holiday packages to Minsk, a city stacked with history, architecture and culture.

With flight times to Minsk taking just five and a half hours from Abu Dhabi, the Etihad Holidays promotion is designed to offer residents of the UAE an ideal opportunity to experience one of Eastern Europe's most fascinating countries.

Tony Gauci, head of Etihad Holidays, said:

'The Etihad Holidays' Minsk promotion is one of our most exciting to date because it is our first destination in Eastern Europe, with customers able to travel conveniently from Abu Dhabi with Etihad Airways and stay in four of Belarus' top hotels.'

'During the past 10 years Belarus has established itself as a firm favourite for independent travellers from across the world and therefore we are thrilled to give UAE residents a chance to experience the cultural and scenic delights of this famous capital city,' he added.

During the summer months holiday makers can explore the picturesque Minsk suburb of Troitsky which is located on the banks of the Svisloch River. Recently rebuilt, Troitsky gives a glimpse of 19th century Belarus and is one of Minsk's most popular districts.

Holiday makers can book an Etihad Holidays package at Minsk's four star Hotel Victoria. The hotel overlooks the Svisloch River and surrounding parkland with views of Troitsky.

Belarus also offers visitors a variety of sight-seeing activities including museums, galleries and a world-class ballet and opera. The famed Philharmonic Orchestra performs several shows a day at the Minsk Musical Theatre and tickets are available at box offices all over the city centre.

For those holiday makers looking to experience other aspects of the city's cultural scene, they can book an Etihad Holidays package at the four star Hotel Minsk. The hotel is located near the capital's business centre and is adjacent to Independence Square and the Red Cathedral.

At the higher end of the market Etihad Holidays is offering customers five nights stay, including return economy flights, at the brand new five star Crowne Plaza hotel. Located in the heart of downtown Minsk the Crowne Plaza is within easy walking distance of the city's main shopping, cultural and sightseeing attractions.

The Minsk promotion also includes a break at the five star Hotel Europe. The impressive hotel is centrally located and overlooks the Town Hall. It also has a breathtaking atrium and 17 metre tall mosaic beside the lobby's marble staircase.

Etihad Airways will start its flights to Minsk on Tuesday 5 August 2008 and operate every Tuesday and Thursday. Outbound flight, EY061, will depart from Abu Dhabi at 9:45am and arrive in Minsk at 2:25pm. Inbound flight, EY062, will depart from Minsk at 3.15pm and arrive in Abu Dhabi at 9.40pm. All times are local.