HOLIDAY AWARD
REVIEWS

If you have ever claimed a holiday on a Purely Creative promotion we'd love to hear all about your trip.
Click here to share your holiday experience with others.

E Draper from Northampton
Comments:
‘I’d never answered any [scratchcard] promotions before. I was quite worried at first. Friends and family were sure it was a con. Fantastic offer – I would, and have, recommended [Purely Creative scratchcards] to friends and family. The [Italian Highlights award] was excellent, went to places I never thought I would see. There were no worst aspects! We had a few rushed days but only because we were to see so many places. [Memorable experiences were] just being in places – St Peter’s Square in Rome, Venice, Florence. I had only ever seen pictures of these places, and now I have actually been there – dream!!! Very, very good service. I am not sure how it could be improved – you got exactly what was offered, a taste of different places. If I hadn’t taken a chance on the promotion I would never have seen more of the world than I ever thought. It pays to take a chance sometimes!’

K Zwaardemaker from Broadstairs
Comments:
‘I had absolutely no experience with Purely Creative scratchcards. I did not know what to expect, so everything was a very pleasant surprise! I certainly will recommend. Everything was so well organised! [Italian Highlights award was] much better [than expected]! Hotels: good. Food: good. The guide, who was African, was excellent. All in all a very enjoyable Italian holiday! The trips were very well organised. [Memorable experience was] to see Rome again after 42 years!! Service very good. We needed medical assistance, which was no problem at all. Unbelievable it’s all free. If you don’t want to spend money on the trips it would still be a lovely holiday!’

Mr Hunt from Eastbourne
Comments:
‘[The scratchcards are] excellent, wonderful – very exciting. Have already [recommended to friends]. [Italian Highlights award was] better even than hoped for in every way. There weren’t any bad aspects. [Memorable experiences were] visiting places such as Florence, Rome (Vatican), St Peter’s, Coliseum, Venice, Lake Garda which we would probably never have done without [Purely Creative scratchcards]. Superb in every way. Could not be improved upon – helpful in every way. We give praise to all concerned in making this holiday something we will remember and treasure always.’

W Craven from Brierley Hill
Comments:
‘Sceptical [before taking part in the scratchcard]! – suspicious about the claim to be ‘winning’ something for nothing. [Participating was] good. Despite my apprehension for reasons noted above, I felt confident that I could ‘pull out’ at any time without financial loss. In the event, my fears proved unfounded. The only charges made were both optional and reasonable value for money. [Purely Creative scratchcards are] excellent, I would certainly (and indeed have!) recommended them to friends. [Italian and Austrian Highlights awards were] better [than expected]. We were prepared to put up with inferior provision (transport, accommodation, food etc.) in view of the cheapness of the holiday – all unfounded! No single incident stands out above others. Both holidays were excellent and comparable to what other tour operators provide at significant cost. All excellent – good hotels, drivers, tour managers, convenient pick–up point and value for money excursions.’

C Green from Nottingham
Comments:
‘[Before playing the Purely Creative scratchcard] I never actually thought you won anything – neither did any of my friends and colleagues. They all feel differently about [the scratchcards] since I have told them about the fantastic holidays I have been on as a result of entering them. I realised that the holiday was the most likely prize and didn’t bother entering, but having had one I have done since. I have recommended [the scratchcards] to all my friends who now say they are going to go for them. [The Italian Highlights award] was far better than anything I could have dreamed of. I would never have thought of going to Venice but having spent a week there as an award in one of your earlier promotions it is my favourite place in the world. Sometimes the travelling is tiring on the Italian Highlights but I realise this is the only way to get around. [A memorable experience was] travelling by water to Venice and then seeing the same view that I had seen so many times on paintings, except that this time it was real. What an emotional moment that was. You have taken me to places I would not have necessarily chosen but have found wonderful. Thank you for that.’

J Tams from West Loos
Comments:
‘[Playing the scratchcard was] very exciting. [Holiday award was] much better [than expected] – Turkey is such a beautiful country. Everything was perfect. The daily coach trips were a memorable experience. The highest [level of service] I have ever had. No [improvements needed] – it was wonderful. We were delayed by the volcanic eruption but were so well taken care of. Our guide was wonderful – he arranged a 5-star hotel and kept us informed every day.’

G Peckham from Gravesend
Comments:
‘I was sceptical at first but decided that I would give it a try. I found the experience very enjoyable – I have recommended the promotions to friends and family who I believe have also taken part. [The holidays in Italy and in Turkey were] great, much better that I first thought. There were no bad bits at all and no problems the whole time. [Memorable experience was] in Italy, to stand in Vatican City and gaze at the magnificent building. Also in Turkey the beautiful scenery was breathtaking. Extremely good service, always on time and a truly knowledgeable guide. I would definitely go again. I have been a few times and always had a great time. We always had good company and saw many interesting places with good history lessons from our guides. No improvements are necessary.’

D Hall from Shoreham-by-Sea
Comments:
‘[The scratchcards are] exciting, we have been on some great holidays to Paris, Italy, Greece and we are shortly going to Malaga in Spain. [Italian Highlights and Paris awards] were fantastic, better than we expected. Seeing all the beautiful sights of Paris, Florence, Venice, Switzerland, Austria, breathtaking views. Very good [service from European Vacations], always on hand to answer questions about the holidays. Keep the promotions coming, it’s the only way we can afford a holiday and the places we have been to have been so different every time.’

E Bayliss from Newton Abbot
Comments:
‘Wasn’t too sure that the prizes on offer [on the scratchcard] were not a "scam". Being a competition addict I took a chance, and was pleasantly surprised at the outcome. They were really super holidays, well organised. Playing the promotion was fun and costless. So what if you didn’t win? But inevitably you did!! I have great faith now in the promotions, and when completed it is so easy to claim an award. I’ve given several friends unwanted scratchcards, but don’t know whether or not they’ve made use of them. The accompanying friends I’ve taken with me when I’ve accepted a holiday have all said what a marvellous time they had. Most holidays far exceed expectations. Been to Spain, Tunisia, Turkey (and soon to be Italy in July 2010). The most memorable moment of my trip to Turkey was the fact that ‘Turkish Night’ fell on my friend’s birthday last year and she thought it had been organised especially for her!! We had a front row table and she was presented with a special cocktail by the courier. Her face was a picture of delight! The level of service is top class! The drivers give good smooth trips, and go out of their way to show special sights on the journeys and the couriers go beyond the call of duty to be helpful – ending up by almost being friends even on the first day. Nothing is too much trouble. A friend and I went on the cruise and stay to Spain in February and it was marvellous, especially the sailing there and back. The sea was rough through the Bay of Biscay – 35ft waves – but it was marvellous. We saw striped dolphins on the way back.’

B Card from Potters Bar
Comments:
‘Wasn’t sure if [the scratchcards] were genuine at first, just waited and wondered if I would get an answer. [The Italian Highlights award] was very interesting, we were surprised how good it was. [Memorable experience was] Switzerland in all the snow and the coach trip through the long tunnel to come out the other end with no snow. Definitely [would go again], we were very happy to see such a lot of famous places in such a short time. European Vacations very good and helpful. A lot of travelling but well worth it to see the leaning tower of Pisa, Venice, the Coliseum, Lake Garda and Austria. My brother enjoyed it very much. Thank you.’

S Whitmore from Leicester
Comments:
‘I was excited but apprehensive about the [Italian Highlights award]. I thought there would be a catch! European Vacations very helpful, whenever I called with questions prior to the vacation they were answered promptly and truthfully. The holiday was much better than expected, got better every day. [Memorable experience was] visiting Florence and Venice, and the hotels were top class. It was such a whirlwind holiday and I cannot believe I got to experience so much of Switzerland, Italy and Austria!! I would like to take up any future offers you may have. I would recommend the promotions to a friend.’

G Webber from Doncaster
Comments:
‘I had never [played the scratchcards] before as I was always dubious of them, and also usually too busy working, but now I am retired I decided I would try. I was surprised as I often felt they were a come on. This promotion was a surprise and I would recommend to a friend. Our holiday in Italy was marvellously enjoyable. [A memorable experience was] visiting the Vatican. My brother was in the navy during the war and was in the Med quite a while and was one of the crew of the HMS Mauritius to visit the Vatican and meet the Pope. He had the most marvellous photos, unfortunately they are now lost. The service was first class, the staff very pleasant and helpful in every way, and being elderly and disabled that makes the holiday all the better. I cannot remember any upsets, only a marvellous time.’

D Pickard from Bexhill-on-Sea
Comments:
‘[Italian Highlights award] was all good! Better [than expected]. [Memorable experiences were] Rome and Lake Garda. [European Vacations service] good.’

P Williams from Brierley Hill
Comments:
‘The holidays that are on offer are nice. The [Italian Highlights] holiday was most enjoyable, both hotels very good. Hotel Sporting near Lake Garda was an ideal place to stay (Zeno di Montagna). Hotel Chianciano in Chiancia Terme was another beautiful place to stay. [Memorable experience was] visiting Pisa and surrounding areas. Italy is a lovely place. Very pleased with the service. Would go on similar holiday in future – the holiday award was a most enjoyable experience.’

C Martin from Wolverhampton
Comments:
‘Very good [scratchcards] I have recommended them to friends on a few occasions. [Holiday in Turkey] much better [than expected. [Memorable experience] was going to Pamukkale to see the hot springs and what they have done to the island. Service was very very good and the rep in the resort and on the tour was excellent. My holiday rewards have all been great, we have always had a good time with you.’

M Salisbury from Sandbach
Comments:
‘I don’t usually take part in scratchcards. I was very dubious at first but then I was very interested in the award. I really enjoyed my Italian holiday. Service was first class. The hotels were excellent and the holiday was better than I expected. I have already told my friends about my experience. The whole holiday was excellent.’

M O’Brien from Harrow
Comments:
‘I avoided [the scratchcards] for some years but I am now turning it around and loving it still, thank you. Very happy time, a pleasure to have achieved something. They are very good promotions. All my friends think twice but they sure like the recommendation. [The Italian Highlights award] did turn out to be for the better – 100%. [Memorable experience was] the entire week, from day one to point of return back home. Service was good, very good, I couldn’t have enough. I had an excellent time, enjoyed it very much.’

F Hendry, Seaford
Comments:
‘Have taken part in two scratchcard holidays, one by myself and one with my wife. Enjoyed them both. [European Vacations] very good and no advantage taken – think it is genuine. [Italian Highlights award] was very good – hectic but then it was a packed itinerary. Beautiful scenery.’

M Daley from Birmingham
Comments:
‘I went on the Italian Highlights holiday. It was wonderful and I have recommended your company to many of my clients and friends.’

E Jones from Kinlet
Comments:
‘Thought there must be some sort of “catch”, but scratchcard holidays in Italy, Austria and Turkey were even better than I had anticipated. [Memorable experiences were] in Italy - Lake Garda, in Austrian Tyrol - everything! In Turkey – the ‘looks like snow’! The holidays were well planned and organised. I’m going again in May. I now believe you – thanks.’

J Dorrington from London
Comments:
‘Before I entered my first competition I was wary. I thought it was just a moneymaker for the promoters. When I received my first reply I felt, well, go for it. My first holiday experience was to Paris. It was more than I expected, until then I had been no further than Torquay. [Memorable experience was] my holiday to Venice – architecture and atmosphere was something different and grand. My holiday to Spain was great. Until my first experience I did not know what to expect, but European Vacations took care of everything, right down to an excellent English speaking courier. I have been on several similar holidays and hope to do more. As a walking disabled, i.e. I use crutches to get around, the holidays I have had and hope to go on are great fun. You meet all sorts of different characters, which in itself is an experience. Thank you for giving me the times of my life.’

A Pooler from Wolverhampton
Comments:
‘[Playing the scratchcard] was interesting and amusing. The holiday [in Austria and Switzerland] was an extremely pleasant experience and in many aspects better than expected. [Memorable experience was] buying our wedding rings. The level of service was quite good. Yes, would go on a similar holiday in future.’

K Reed from Wombourne
Comments:
‘The [Italian Highlights] holiday turned out better than I expected because the crowd of people were friendly and humorous, they sang songs and someone even played his harmonica. The tour guide was very friendly and helpful to everyone. [Memorable experience was] Austria, very sunny and snow on the mountains, beautiful views. Very good service [from European Vacations], we had no problems and we felt comfortable in all hotels. Meals were good and everything was on time.’

J Brown from Tamworth
Comments:
‘The [Italian Highlights] holiday was as I expected it to be - most enjoyable. [Memorable experiences were] Lake Garda and Rome. Austria and Switzerland – excellent.’

J Patterson from Tamworth
Comments:
‘Holidays in Italy and France were better than expected. We didn’t go on the organised tours and we found our own places to eat. [Memorable experience was] seeing so many places, snippets to be savoured. Good service.’

R Darnley from Cheadle
Comments:
‘Italian holiday award did seem too good to be true. [Playing the scratchcard] was easy and the holiday was actually better than I thought it would be. [Memorable experience was] watching a religious procession into St Peter’s Square. I did in fact recommend [the scratchcards] to two parties.’

M Cook from Gosport
Comments:
‘Always taking part [in the scratchcards]. Italian Highlights [holiday award] superb - to see so many places. Turkey – fantastic country and holiday. [Memorable experiences include] meeting lots of people, coach and destinations. Italy - one day brilliant sunshine, 24 hrs later 2/3 ins of snow. Good value, helpful staff most of the time and the hotel standards were excellent. [Would play again] without a doubt. Thank you for ‘Cash Card’.’

S Simpson from Hexham
Comments:
‘I used to bin [the scratchcards]! Then I read one of yours and decided to give it a go. Great fun. The [Italian Highlights] holidays (went twice!) were much better than expected! Seeing the Doges Palace in Venice – wow! Excellent service. I would love to do the Italian Highlights or the Swiss Alpine again, definitely!’

S Hall from Chelmsford
Comments:
‘I never really thought about [playing a scratchcard] until it came up. Was curious. Our first holiday, ‘Italian Highlights’, was brilliant. 1st class drivers and a brilliant holiday rep called Richard. [Memorable experience was] 2nd holiday in France, the first part – "Normandy Landings".’

M Drew from Faversham
Comments:
‘I would recommend friends to stick with [the scratchcards] as the holiday in Italy was well worth it. [Memorable experience was] visiting Florence. Tour guide was excellent and I was fascinated with much of the information she told us. Even though I had been to Florence previously she took us to many places that I hadn’t explored before.’

A Mitchell from Aylesford
Comments:
‘The holiday awards in Austria, Switzerland, Italy and Turkey were excellent. Better than expected. May I have more please? Best aspects were the hot therms and amazing scenery at Pamukkale in Turkey and the food and accommodation. Excellent service from European Vacations.’

E Farrellfrom Crowborough
Comments:
‘Was a little bit sceptical and wary [before playing the scratchcard]. It was satisfying and relatively easy. Am perfectly happy and would I would certainly recommend to friends. The holiday in Turkey was much as we had expected but some aspects were much higher than expected. Hotels were all good and guide was excellent. The excursions were excellent. No complaints at all, European Vacations just as good as any other tour company I know of. This was our second European Vacations holiday award. In 2008 we went to Italy, which was wonderful, so we were happy to take the trip to Turkey. Much enjoyed.’

M Austin from Cromer
Comments:
‘Travel by coach cut out a lot of worries. [Italian Highlights award] as expected, [memorable experiences were] the mountains and the mountain roads. Found [European Vacations] kind, efficient, no hurry or worries, good coaches.’

A Akbar from Twickenham
Comments:
‘Enjoy [the scratchcards] for holidays, which I like. Won a free visit to the Turkish baths. Quite an experience! The hotels were clean and food was plentiful and good (too much wasted by the guests, they should be advised to take only food they were going to eat). Entertainment on the whole was enjoyable. The people in charge were always pleasant, well informed and helpful.’

D Farr from Croydon
Comments:
‘I have had very good holidays and I will be having more.’

J Wilcocks from London
Comments:
‘We were very pleased with the holiday awards and I look forward to others. The Austrian holiday was superb, and I loved the Paris one too. In Austria the Mount Pilatus trip was wonderful. In Paris the trip to Arromanches which my friend and I found very moving.’

M Harnden from Mitcham
Comments:
‘I have had two holiday awards. The Italian in 2008 and the Alpine holiday. The Italian experience was great, much better than expected, the hotels and food were really good. The Alpine holiday in October was absolutely brilliant, I would do it again. The scenery was magnificent, good hotels and the weather was exceptional. Wonderful. We met some lovely people and had lots of laughs on the coach. Rome was great, as were Switzerland and the Lakes and Austria. European Vacations all very good. The courier and drivers were friendly and helpful and everything was very informative. Looking forward to more – we’re about to go on a Turkish holiday award, which looks very interesting. More on that later hopefully! I have recommended the holiday awards to several friends and will continue to do so.’

B Fostel from Lincoln
Comments:
‘Was doubtful [before playing the scratchcard] – a wonderful experience. The holidays are wonderful, better than expected. Have been to Italy twice, and Alpine Highlights and Paris - all exceeded expectations. Going to Venice and staying at Lake Garda was a delight – the hotel was excellent and location good, near the lake and easy to get to boat trips. European Vacations service excellent, Pete went out of his way to accommodate people. We have enjoyed all the trips we have been on.’

A Wood from Banbury
Comments:
‘At first I did not take [the scratchcards] to be true and binned them. [Participating was] a sheer joy. I would [recommend the scratchcards to a friend]. Holiday in Switzerland and Austria was better than expected, it was really nice to get away and see places that we would not have gone to. The snow covered mountains in Switzerland, lovely countryside in Austria. Excellent service from European Vacations. Carry on with your games.’

J Buchanan from Cromer
Comments:
‘I was unsure [before playing the scratchcard] but wanted to try something new. Surprising, I will continue to take part and I will recommend them to friends. The Spanish Cruise holiday was a happy event. [A memorable experience was] when we visited a resort and went on a cable car on the journey to the hotel. The service was good although one of the reps was new to the job. We have been looked after very well throughout the process.’

M West from Carnforth
Comments:
‘[Playing the scratchcard was] satisfying. Always worth a try. [Holiday in Switzerland and Austria] better than expected. Scenery and service very good. All round a well worth while exercise.’

N Manohar from Hastings
Comments:
‘Was a bit sceptical initially, but then felt why not have a go at it, which proved to be worthwhile. I would recommend the promotions to friends, in fact I have already done so. Had a very good holiday in Italy, better than I expected, probably because I went with family and not alone. Service was very good, various memorable photographs taken whilst on holiday. Of course I would go on a similar holiday again in future – from my view all was perfect.’

R Watts from Liverpool
Comments:
‘I have recommended [Purely Creative scratchcards] to people. Exciting experience. The holiday in Austria and Switzerland turned out better than expected, I really enjoyed it. The scenery was fantastic, the hotels good and the company was nice and friendly. Very good service from European Vacations, everyone was very helpful. The holiday awards are great.’

K Perrie from Sheffield
Comments:
‘Holiday in Italy was better than expected, the drivers and escort were very good. It was an enjoyable holiday (apart from mosquito bites near Pisa). High point was Rome.’

R Vardy from Sheffield
Comments:
‘The holiday turned out better than we expected. It was just as it said and we enjoyed it very much, everything we saw and did was memorable. We enjoyed all the time we were on it.’

J Grimes from Retford
Comments:
‘I’d never played [a Purely Creative scratchcard] before. Different. Would recommend the holidays, excellent!! Turkey was extremely good. Good hotels and superb visit to Pamukkale and salt deposits on hillside. An absolutely splendid holiday and our bus driver was fantastic. My friend really enjoyed herself, kept talking about it afterwards. The Italian tour was really superb, great guide and good driver. I took my eldest daughter who has hardly travelled and she really enjoyed the holiday. Would go again. It was a really great holiday, really enjoyed it. ’

P McNulty from Gravesend.
Comments:
‘I really enjoyed the participation, relaxed, easy and generally cost effective. I have already recommended the promotions to more than one friend. The [Italian Highlights] holiday was at least as good as expected – excellent throughout. [Memorable experiences were] the Rome and Pisa visits, also Lake Garda. Extremely satisfactory. We are very keen to take further holidays and we’re looking forward to winning further awards.’

W Wright from Stourbridge
Comments:
‘I have been notified for Paris and Turkey [scratchcard awards] and I really enjoyed both. Much better than expected. [Liked] meeting people. Didn’t have any negative aspects. Excellent [service from European Vacations].’

J Carlisle from Chesterfield
Comments:
‘Holiday [in Italy] better than expected. So many [memorable experiences], good crowd on the bus, Florence, Rome, Switzerland, Austria. Very good service.’

R Taylor from Goole
Comments:
‘[Purely Creative scrathcards are] fantastic, fantastic, fantastic. Different but very interesting. We would recommend to friends and family. With this being our first holiday abroad we were a little nervous [about the Alpine Highlights award] at first, but we soon settled down and enjoyed the new experience. Holiday was a lot better than anyone could expect. The coach driver and the courier were by far the best. The people on the coach were all fantastic, we had lots of laughs. The hotels were very nice also. We were well looked after, and the places we visited were very interesting. The holiday was great and we are sure it would be difficult to improve.’

M Williams from Bangor
Comments:
‘Glad that I took part. Great experience when given details of the offer. I have recommended [the scratchcards]. It was a fantastic holiday [in Italy], well organised with great hotels. No complaints at all. [Memorable experience was] the hotel and food in Austria on our way back. Excellent service, the coach driver for the whole holiday was excellent.’

G Strong from High Wycombe
Comments:
‘I have recommended [Purely Creative scratchcards] to friends. [Holiday in Austria and Italy] probably better than expected overall. I was afraid it would all be done cheaply but was pleasantly surprised at the quality of coach and hotels. [Memorable experiences were] the train ride in Austria through the mountains and the Italian Lakes. Very good [service from European Vacations]. I might do it again, especially if finances are low.’

E Durham from Selby
Comments:
‘Didn’t think I would hear anything [after playing the scratchcard] but it was like a game and it didn’t cost anything. I was quite shocked to hear about a holiday. I was a little worried that no transport would be at the pick-up point and that would be the end, but had nothing to worry about. [Holiday in Italy] was very good, hotels, food and transport better than expected. Enjoyed it all – the amount of different places I was taken to see. Excellent. All I would say is that it was a very enjoyable holiday. Thoroughly.’

J Griffiths from Prescot
Comments:
‘I enjoy competitions and quizzes. My award was a trip to Turkey. We found it very interesting and the weather was good. It was my second award, my first was to Italy in 2008. I have recommended [the scratchcards] to friends, but I don’t know if they have taken up the offer. All hotels were very comfortable. Very good service and good food in hotels. I like visiting other countries, going to the ancient swimming pools in Turkey and the heated pool at the hotel.’

M Gardiner from Durham
Comments:
‘Felt a bit anxious that the rewards would be rather second class. [Italian Highlights award was] better than expected. [Memorable experience was] arriving in a foreign country. Very good service, our guide was very helpful.’

B Davies from Newport
Comments:
‘I enjoyed taking part in the competitions, especially for holidays. Happy to claim my award, would recommend to a friend. The holiday [in Switzerland] turned out to be of excellent quality and better than expected. The train journey on the Alpine Express up in the Alps was stunning to actually see. Did not find any bad points about the service we received, very good indeed. I certainly would do it again, other than catching a later ferry I don’t think the holiday award could be improved.’

E Waterhouse from Bexhill-on-Sea
Comments:
‘Holiday in Italy was] same as expected. [Memorable experience was] revisiting Venice and the Italian culture. European Vacations good, both on bookings and courier and drivers. Well organised with good trips.’

S Vakil from Farnborough
Comments:
‘My experience of playing the promotion was quite straightforward and posed no problems, but I felt extremely sceptical about the kind of holiday on offer. The holidays [1 in Austria and 1 in Italy] turned out to be much better than expected. The venues and itinerary were very good. There were so many memorable moments that it is difficult to pick one out. The level of service from European Vacations was very good. Would definitely do it again, we had wonderful, interesting holidays. The promotions were quite exciting and well thought out and I would definitely recommend them to friends. We would like you to keep in touch with any further holiday awards which may become available.’

M Shattock from Staines
Comments:
‘We accepted the chance of a holiday as we had never been to Austria or Switzerland. The coach was very comfortable, we stopped many times for comfort breaks. We did enjoy seeing all the countries. The best bit was in Switzerland, we stayed on the coach and drove through the Alps sitting up front with the driver. Austria was best, so clean, good hotel and food.’

E Baker from Canvey island
Comments:
‘The [Paris holiday award] was fine, service was fine. Very good hotel, I enjoyed the lounge.’

M Stevenson from Bridgnorth
Comments:
‘Excellent [Italian Highlights award]. I think the most memorable experience was being in Rome in time to see the Pope give his Easter blessings. The scenery on the journey was wonderful. Service was very good indeed. Having been on two holiday awards I’m always looking forward to others when available. I am always recommending other people to try the scratchcards.’

A Smith from Stoke-on-Trent
Comments:
‘Quite surprised to find out that [Purely Creative scratchcards] were genuine and quite excited. I would certainly recommend my friend to have a go. The holiday turned out better than expected. The coach travel was quite comfortable, enjoyed the mountains and Lake Garda, Tuscany and Florence and the making of so many new friends. Thank you for a most enjoyable holiday and all of your staff for the excellent arrangements made on my behalf.’

C Miller from Gravesend
Comments:
‘Always been interested in the prospect of winning a free holiday – we have never been able to afford foreign holidays having a large family to bring up. [Playing the scratchcard] very easy, once we could guarantee the Italian Highlights holiday would be available in school holidays as I work in a school. Definitely would recommend scratchcards to a friend, it was a great experience if you like coach holidays. Didn’t know what to expect, but we saw places we would never visit on our own. [Memorable experiences were] seeing Venice and Vatican City. [European Vacations service was] very good, a well organised holiday with a friendly courier.’

M Presbury from Nottingham
Comments:
‘The [Italian Highlights holiday award] was excellent and the coach driver and guide were very good. [Memorable experience was] meeting the people. All was good. The service for the holiday was good.’

K Ramsden from York
Comments:
‘The holiday [in Austria and Switzerland] was what we expected. The destinations are good and the coach travel comfortable. [Memorable experience was] our trip on the Glacier Express. The level of service was excellent. ’

J Parfitt from Hastings
Comments:
‘[Purely Creative scratchcards are] very good. Participating is easy and interesting. [Italian Highlights award] better than expected. Could not fault it – everything as detailed. [Memorable experience was] leaning tower of Pisa. Very good service. We enjoyed the whole Italian experience – tour guide, driver etc. all excellent.’

E Foster from Bexhill
Comments:
‘[Italian Highlights award] turned out to be much better than we expected. There weren’t any problems, everything was fine. [Memorable experience was] St Peter’s Rome, it was my heart’s desire to go there. [European Vacations service was] very good in every way. We were quite satisfied.’

M Ludkin from Windsor
Comments:
‘Interesting and exciting [participation experience]. Promotions excellent, would recommend them to friends. [Austrian Highlights Award] better than expected. The coach journey round the glacier [was memorable experience]. Very good service. Excellent to see so many destinations and places of interest which one has only heard about and felt envious which you made possible for whoever wants to participate. Many thanks.’

Hale from Uxbridge
Comments:
‘Slightly dubious [about the scratchcard] at first, but after careful consideration thought genuine. Extremely pleased [after participating] and grateful for the opportunity. Courtesy right through, from booking the holiday in Spain to hotel service. [Memorable experiences were] wonderful scenery and going on a day tour through countryside that would be impossible by foot or public transport. A very enjoyable holiday in every way.’

Z Mongan from London
Comments:
‘A bit apprehensive [before playing the scratchcard]. Made me almost give up, but I’m glad I didn’t. I have recommended [the promotions] to friends, because I did enjoy the holidays very much. The [Italian Highlights] holiday was very enjoyable. Saw a lot of lovely places and the excursions were good. [Memorable experiences were] Lake Garda, travelling through the mountains, Tuscany and good hotels.’

I White from Wigton
Comments:
‘[Italian Highlights award] better [than expected]. [Memorable experience was] sitting in the square in Florence having coffee in the sun – followed by 2ft of snow the next day in Austria! Excellent [service from European Vacations]. No improvement needed. Very organised, thank you. Would love to do another when I get free time.’

K Rickards from Marlborough
Comments:
‘I didn’t realise [the scratchcards] could be such good value. And very easy. My friend and I were pleasantly surprised by the Austria and Switzerland award. The weather was good, the scenery fantastic as I had not visited these countries before. The fellow passengers were good company, the service was good. My friend and I thoroughly enjoyed the holiday.’

L Hawker from Woodley
Comments:
‘[Before participating] I did not think I could take [the scratchcards] at their word. Very good experience, I would recommend. Austrian Highlights award better [than expected]. The two stopovers [were memorable experiences], lovely scenery, hotels excellent.’

R Cole from New Milton
Comments:
‘74. Wary to start with but having done one [Purely Creative scratchcard] I found it quite exciting. Having claimed Italian Highlights and Alpine Highlights awards I found the scratchcards very good and I would recommend to a friend. Was not looking forward to all the travelling but found the holidays better than expected. Both [holidays] were interesting and the scenery was beautiful.’

P Burton from Stanford-le-Hope
Comments:
‘I was a little bit apprehensive, thought it might be a time share thing when [holiday award] was offered to me. As this was my first experience of taking up the offer it turned out better than I thought. The holiday was well planned and organised. Excellent. Keep up the excellent work.’

M Davies from Christchurch
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] did not really believe them. A very nice surprise. It was lovely to see all the places on the Italian Highlights trip. [A memorable experience was] seeing the Pope’s address at the Vatican. Very good service, it was very well organised. The hotels were very good. Also we had lovely food. We enjoyed the tour a great deal, we loved everywhere we visited.’

R Kay from Hawkhurst
Comments:
‘I never did [the scratchcards] before, I never thought they were real. [After claiming an award] I think they are very good. [Italian Highlights award] much better than expected. Too many [memorable experiences] to list. Exceptional service from European Vacations. Waiting for next holiday.’

L Thompson from St Leonards on Sea
Comments:
‘Fantastic hotels on [Italian Highlights] trip, especially Kustein in Austria. Went back there on next trip. [Memorable experience was] the Alpine train [on Austrian Highlights tour].’

J Attwell from Ramsgate
Comments:
‘I never really thought about [scratchcards] until I did your one. I was very surprised by the award and glad I did now. [Purely Creative scratchcards are] very good and some lovely awards. I would recommend to a friend. My [Alpine Highlights] was better than expected, in fact I was surprised how good it was. Seeing all the lovely scenery and how friendly everyone was on the coach. Hope to go again sometime.’

M Hitchings from Tewkesbury
Comments:
‘I was a bit sceptical [about the scratchcards] at first, but everything was fine. We had two good trips and I would recommend them to friends. Saw some lovely places and the hotels were fine.’

R Bridger from Farnham
Comments:
‘I just played a scratchcard, did not think it was going to be any good. What a surprise. The holiday award was better [than expected], made some good friends. [Memorable experience was] coming together for evening meals with most of the group. Very good service, could not wish for better. I have been on three of your holidays and could not fault them. I first played the game and went to Italy, then Alpine which we enjoyed very much. But best of all was Turkey we have just come back from.’

M McKenna from London
Comments:
‘[Before taking part] I did not trust any of [the scratchcards]. Quite straightforward [experience], the holiday award was better than I expected – meeting fantastic people, sharing experiences. It was our first time and we enjoyed the opportunity. Very good.’

M Ren from London
Comments:
‘I thought it might be only a joke before playing the scratchcard. I thought [the scratchcard] is a good idea, I have recommended to two of my friends. [Holiday award] very good, like very much.’

J Bayston from Haslemere
Comments:
‘No problem [with Purely Creative scratchcards], good experience. [Alpine Highlights award] better than expected. [Memorable experience was] crossing the snow-covered mountains. Very good service. Thank you for the opportunity.’

J Marshall from Bordon
Comments:
‘I just [played the scratchcard] for a laugh, did not think I would get anywhere. I have told my friends about it. Our [Italian Highlights award] was very good. We didn’t expect it to be so good. [Memorable experiences were] going to see Venice and Rome. I never thought I would ever go there. The service [from European Vacations] was excellent all the way. My friend and I thought the holiday was excellent. We enjoyed the lovely places we saw. We had always wanted to go to Italy, to Venice. It was a wonderful place to see. We also enjoyed seeing the other places as well. We were very impressed with the way we were looked after on the coach, we were never bored. The hotel was lovely as well and excellent food and the group we travelled with were a good crowd. The scenery was lovely all the way. I have told my friends about the scratchcards.’

S Clelland from Farnham
Comments:
‘It was easy to claim – I was glad I had entered [the scratchcard]. I would recommend them to anyone. The most memorable part of my [Italian Highlights] holiday was touring Rome. The sights were magnificent. The service from [European Vacations] was excellent. I would certainly go on another holiday.’

J Blades from Northampton
Comments:
‘[Participation experience] very good, and easy. I would like to say that the Purely Creative staff are very nice and prompt at answering questions, and it’s very nice to speak to people rather than answering phones. I have enjoyed [Italian Highlights award] and the hotels in Turkey were very nice. I loved Rome and Venice, and a lovely waterfall in Turkey and the Roman Coliseum. Thank you for all the trips, met lovely people.’

P Woodruff from Jarrow
Comments:
‘Rather cynical [about the scratchcard]. Didn’t know what to expect. [Participating was] very good. [Italian Highlights award] much better [than expected]. Too many [memorable experiences] to pick out one – fab scenery in Switzerland, wonderful Pisa, Rome, Florence. Holiday better than expected, hotels and trips excellent. Waiting for Turkey – can’t wait.’

J Morris from Lanark
Comments:
‘I never did much competitions before. [Playing the scratchcard was] a great feeling. My opinion [of Purely Creative scratchcards] is great, having had a great holiday in Italy, seeing places I would never have seen otherwise. The holiday was much better than I expected. The services from the office and driver and courier were wonderful. I enjoyed every minute of the original game and the holiday.’

J Burchell from Coventry
Comments:
‘After getting my holiday I am always recommending [Purely Creative scratchcards] to all my friends. [Italian Highlights award] turned out better than I expected. I was over the moon. [Memorable experiences were] all of it, Venice was great, really enjoyed boat ride over Lake Garda. Just all of it. Not to be missed. Service was excellent. Now waiting to go to Turkey and a mini cruise around the Bay of Biscay with you.’

M Whittle from Bolton
Comments:
‘Always fancied taking part – very rewarding. I enjoyed the experience and I would recommend. The [Italian Highlights] holiday was better than expected, very good.’

J Atkin from Okehampton
Comments:
‘So far so good, I have been on Italian Highlights, Swiss/Austrian Alps and Paris Weekend and I have already sung [Purely Creative’s] praises to quite a few people. Never having done a ‘coaching’ holiday before, my friend and I were a little dubious, but were pleasantly surprised. [Memorable experiences were] trip to Venice, driving through Switzerland and Austria and trip to Rome.’

J Faulds from Redruth
Comments:
‘I had no preconceived ideas. The [Italian Highlights award] was most enjoyable and by and large the accommodation very good. Without question the courier was the best throughout the holiday. He was knowledgeable and informative, in fact probably the best courier I have ever travelled with. I certainly would love to go on a similar holiday in future.’

M Waldron from Wells
Comments:
‘I decided to have a go and I was pleased I played [the Purely Creative scratchcards]. It turned out much better [than expected]. Too many [memorable experiences] to note. We had the same coach guide on most of the holidays. He was a delight, informative and humourous and made the coach journeys a real joy, his name was Richard. We also found the drivers most helpful and polite. The places we visited were lovely, we would not have been able to go there other than these trips.’

R Bowdery from Littlehampton
Comments:
‘Excellent [experience], I would recommend. Turkey holiday award much much better [than expected] – first class from start to finish. Very impressed and would never hesitate to take up any future offers and would be happy to recommend to friends and relatives.’

S Culverwell from Bridgewater
Comments:
‘[The scratchcards] serve a purpose. The [Austria and Switzerland award] was lovely, better [than expected]. The scenery was incredible. Very good [service from European Vacations].’

A Orin
Comments:
‘The staff at the resort wore extremely helpful. I found nice restaurants, managed to get on to coach trips which were very enjoyable. Overall very delightful.’

S Tidy from Taunton
Comments:
‘A bit sceptical [about the holiday award], I thought it might be another way of selling time share. [Participating was] fairly easy, [the scratchcards are] a good way of travelling to places you have always wanted to visit but perhaps couldn’t afford. The [Italian Highlights award] was better than I expected, which was a nice surprise. The most memorable were the cities visited and the escorted tours and just being in those places and soaking up everything about the atmosphere. The guides were also very good. I have been on two of the holidays now and would go on another.’

K Berwick from Hailsham
Comments:
‘I had an open mind [before playing the scratchcard]. It was easy and fun. [Alpine Highlights award] was all very nice. Very good service [from European Vacations].’

B Browne from Southampton
Comments:
‘Not sure if promotions could be of benefit [before taking part]. [Italian Highlights award was] better [than expected]. [Memorable experience was] seeing Florence. Good service [from European Vacations].’

S Randall from Tanley
Comments:
‘I rarely take part in promotional competitions but this time I was pleasantly surprised. I enjoyed it, and have played several times since. Not sure what I expected [from Turkey award] but it was definitely good, interesting and informative. The trip to Pamukkale and the springs and subsequent trip were absolutely fantastic, I would go again. The level of service was fine and the guide extremely well informed and interesting. The games are good and prizes mostly favourable. The holiday was also something special and I look forward to the next one.’

J Parry from Liverpool
Comments:
‘Very sceptical [before playing the scratchcard]. Enjoyable experience. 1st holiday was tiring due to unforeseen strikes at Dover, but Austria was brilliant and Turkey very enjoyable. [Memorable experiences were] sight-seeing and chilling out. Enjoyed them all.’

T Cowan from Ongar
Comments:
‘I was unsure [before playing the scratchcard], having never done anything like that before, and I was quite cautious. I was quite surprised to get the Italian holiday. It’s not often you get something for nothing these days and I still didn’t believe it until I got the confirmation in the post. The guided tour we had around Venice was superb. Very good service. On the whole it was a lovely holiday and we were very fortunate to have a splendid tour guide on the coach with us, nothing was too much trouble, he was very helpful, pleasant, charming and professional. I only know his first name, it was Alex.’

R Ward from Leicester
Comments:
‘Didn’t usually take part in these [scratchcards], but recent holidays have been most enjoyable. I would recommend [the scratchcards] to a relation. Each holiday was great, nothing to complain about. Well-planned, satisfactory hotels overnight, Italy, Switzerland, Austria etc., all a treat. I have a huge collection of photos.’

G Patterson from Solihull
Comments:
‘Our holiday award to Switzerland/Austria was better than expected. [A memorable experience was] going over the Alps from Switzerland to Austria when we stopped off in St Moritz. The level of service was fine, could not have been improved.’

M Oliver from Birmingham
Comments:
‘My first time [playing a scratchcard], definitely would [recommend to a friend]. Italian Highlights award was a fantastic experience, thank you. [Memorable experiences were] the Coliseum and the Lake, walking around Rome and seeing all the culture, and Florence and Venice and the old towns of Chiano and visiting a wine cellar. Good service all round.’

R Jones from Conway
Comments:
‘[Purely Creative scratchcards are] good. Previous two holiday awards have been excellent.’

R Rees from Bolton
Comments:
‘Good experience of playing promotion and claiming award. Would certainly recommend to a friend having claimed an award. Alpine Highlights award turned out much better than expected. [Memorable experience was] to go through the highest part of the mountains going through zig-zag road. Very good level of service. I would go on similar holidays, would want to go to Florence and Rome.’

K Elliot from Uxbridge
Destination:
Pontins Brean Sands
Comments:
‘Good facilities, good accommodation. Good entertainment and location. [The best thing about the holiday was] it was free. Good, in fact very good! I’d go again.’

E Chorley from Warrington
Comments:
‘A little dubious at first but very good and interesting, quite exciting. I would recommend [Purely Creative scratchcards] to a friend. I would say Italian Highlights award was better than expected. Visiting the Vatican [was a memorable experience].’

B Durrant from Ipswich
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] I thought I would never win anything. [Participating was] good, no problem. Well worth entering. Italian Highlights award was very good. [Memorable experiences were] the leaning tower of Pisa and Florence. We had been to Venice before, but still very enjoyable. Tuscany is beautiful. Very good indeed. The tour was very good, educational. Hotels were very comfortable, the coach driver was extremely good, looked after us well – especially as my husband was in a wheelchair. An all round good trip.’

M Brown from Londonderry
Comments:
‘Sceptical [before playing the scratchcard]. Fulfilling [experience], better [than expected]. Really enjoyed the holiday [in Austria and Switzerland] and the service of European Vacations was first class, 10/10. Excellent.’

S Welsh from Ballynahinch
Comments:
‘My last [Turkey holiday award] was fantastic. We only stayed in three hotels whereas the time before we were in five hotels. No complaints on it.’

W Aston from Dudley
Comments:
‘Not too sure [before playing the scratchcard] but delighted after taking part. Very happy. I have already recommended [Purely Creative scratchcards] to several people. We cannot fault the [Italian Highlights] holiday. First class. Better [than expected]. I was in Italy for 2 years during World War 2. It brought back a lot of memories and I was very pleased to be able to show my wife places I had been during those 2 years.’

D Garrod from Halesworth
Comments:
‘I was unsure of [Purely Creative scratchcards before taking part]. It was all right, it was a good [Italian Highlights] holiday. For me, it was my first time abroad so it was exciting. I think what I enjoyed most was the ride on the gondola in Venice and the boat ride on Lake Garda. Italy is a very beautiful country.’

M Norris from Bristol
Comments:
‘I never thought about [scratchcards] before taking part. [Participating was] just good fun. It was a good experience. [Austrian Highlights holiday was] better than expected. The pick-up system was excellent. Excellent drivers and guides. Good time-keeping.’

D Moore from Solihull
Comments:
‘[Holidays were] as expected. Excellent [service from European Vacations], excellent tour guides on both trips we have been on, Turkey and Italy.’

A Reed from London
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] I thought they were just a con. It was different than just signing up for a holiday and the gifts were a bonus. At the end of it the value was there for what you got. The [Italian Highlights] award was OK and I would recommend it, better than expected in terms of the places we visited, Pisa, Florence, Venice. The guides were exceptional and really looked after us. I have not taken up recent offers because I already have 3 holidays booked for 2010 but next year maybe.’

B Saliba from Welwyn Garden City
Comments:
‘I went on a coach trip to Italy, Switzerland and Austria. Very good [service]. It was all fun.’

K Stephens-Haslam from Llandeilo
Comments:
‘The Spanish cruise award was better that expected. The coach operatives were excellent, the hotel good although it was towards the end of the season. [Memorable experience was] the company of several of the other passengers and the friendliness and competence of the staff, i.e. Kevin and Chris.’

J Lewis from Bristol
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] we wondered what we would get and then what standard the hotels would be. We only claimed the award because it involved travelling to two countries we enjoy visiting. We were pleasantly surprised with what we got. The continental coach was really comfortable. [A memorable experience was] sitting beside the lake in Lucerne in 22 degrees on the 17th October and leaving Hopfgarten on 0 degrees on the 20th October. We enjoyed the short break very much visiting Austria and Switzerland. The scenery we passed through was so different.’

J Leakey from Bath
Comments:
‘I enjoy promotional competitions. You have a choice to take part or not, and usually I like to take part. I would recommend them. I enjoyed the holiday [in Austria], especially the scenery. I would like to thank you for inviting me to take part.’

Rev Lawson from Chichester
Comments:
‘I hadn’t taken any interest in [scratchcards] before taking part, it was a great surprise and we were grateful [for Spanish cruise award]. I will recommend to others. We had plenty of rain in the nights but most days beautiful sunshine. Very interesting historical monuments, sights, museums, art, caves. Excellent. The driver was very able – especially getting the coach on an off the ferry. You are doing well. All the places you have taken us to over the years – France, Italy, Germany, Switzerland – even Spain – have been great. Keep it up. God bless you and all your staff. We are wondering just where your next award will take us! The world is our parish!’

L Day from Orpington
Comments:
‘Easy and uncomplicated. I would recommend [Purely Creative scratchcards] to a friend. It was a busy [Italian Highlights] holiday but did turn out to be much better than expected. Visited some very nice places and stayed in some nice hotels. [European Vacations] very good and helpful.’

E Young from Newmilns
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcards] I thought they were a ‘con’. Surprised and pleased, I did enjoy my holidays. Paris – we had a good break – better than expected. Italian tour – my granddaughter and I loved this one! [Memorable experiences were] Disneyland Paris – and La Belle Epoque, Florence, Gondola trip. We also loved Rome and St Peters. The staff on the bus and other passengers were helpful, friendly and fun. I plan to take up more of your offers.’

M Graham from Stafford
Comments:
‘[Participating] was easy, Switzerland/Italy and Austria holiday awards better [than expected]. My sister and I loved the magical moments we had in all places, but especially Venice. Excellent service.’

N Sterling from Gloucester
Comments:
‘I did not believe in [scratchcards] before this holiday. I found [participating] very interesting – I think the promotion is very helpful and I have recommended this to other friends. [France award] turned out a lot better than we expected. [Memorable experience was] sight seeing in Paris. Very good service. [Would do it again] as soon as possible. I found the holiday very good.’

C Lincoln from London
Comments:
‘A little doubtful [about Purely Creative scratchcards] initially. [Participating was] enjoyable. Excellent value for money, unlike a lot of other promotions around. I would recommend [Purely Creative scratchcards] strongly. [Italian Highlights, Mediterranean Cruise, Alpine Highlights and Barcelona city break awards] better [than expected]. Guided tours of historical sights [were memorable]. Very good service from European Vacations, particularly guides providing some historical and geographical background info. I think this type of holiday is ideal for sight-seeing. Having the transport and guide available lends itself tremendously to visiting historic sites and places of beauty and geographical interest.’

J Metcalf from Witney
Comments:
‘[Turkey award] better [than expected]. Just good fun. The group we were with were great fun too! Excellent [service from European Vacations].’

G C Sycamore from York
Destination:
Fuengirola
Comments:
‘Resort very good, lots of space, very clean and well kept. Plenty of cafes and bars. Good food nice people. Very nice hotel, well kept and laid out. Staff very helpful, rooms perfect and kept very clean. Super market next door was handy. [The best part was the] good hotel and very nice staff and reps. Lots of choice for sightseeing trips. Prices very reasonable transport good. Well looked after by everyone. First time in Spain and it turned out very well. Lots of trips and sights to see. Overall quite good.’

L Barrah from Ashton-under-Lyne
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] I thought that the prizes they give were a con, e.g. the postage more than the prize. [Italian Highlights, Austria and Switzerland and Paris awards] were different, a real free holiday. It felt very good. I have recommended [Purely Creative scratchcards] to friends. They are very good, you do get a prize. [The holidays] turned out better than expected. I have had three holidays. I think seeing the Swiss villages was the best. I like European Vacations. Good pick-up point in Manchester, good hotels and meals, good tour managers. Very good holidays, I have had good friendly people on the coaches. I would love to go again, some time in early 2011. Thank you.’

V Reed from Leeds
Destination:
Tunisia
Comments:
‘I enjoyed the resorts and it’s cultures. I have stayed at the hotel before and again, Very highly satisfied with the staff, rooms and food. The best things about my holiday were the weather, hotel, resorts and the chance to meet up with old friends I made 8 years ago. Overall a very pleasant week!’

B Abel from Newton
Comments:
‘Sceptical [before playing the scratchcard], not really believing that something can be won without hidden costs. Yes would recommend Purely Creative [scratchcards], there is nothing to lose, you can always decline to accept. [Italian Highlights award was] better than expected. The touring around wasn’t skimped and you could opt to do what you wanted and not take the tours. [Memorable experience was] emerging from the train station in Rome to be confronted by the Coliseum. Holiday company very good, friendly but professional.’

K McNaught from Glasgow
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] I felt you’d never get a reward. I enjoyed participating, especially when there was a proper reward at the end of it. I think [Purely Creative scratchcards] are very good and I would certainly recommend them to a friend. [Italian Highlights award was] better than expected. [Memorable experience was] the trip to Stressa – it was a beautiful place. My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed our Italian Highlights tour and are looking forward to our next trip.’

C Hamilton from Easthouses
Comments:
‘Was not sure what to expect [before playing the scratchcard], good experience. Holiday [in Italy] was fine, hotels lovely, drivers fine. Excellent service. [Memorable experiences were] the places we visited and the company on the coach.’

A Dyer from Falkirk
Comments:
‘[Memorable experiences of] Alpine Highlights award undoubtedly Innsbruck and Lake Lucerne equally, magnificent scenery and the journey to St Moritz was spectacular. The idea of holiday awards is an excellent one and I shall certainly try others and recommend them to friends.’

D Donaldson from Glasgow
Comments:
‘[Playing the scratchcard] was a good feeling. The [Paris award] was okay, no problems. The guides were very informative, we got to see everything we wanted. Everything was fine.’

H Wallace from Norwich
Comments:
‘Felt a bit apprehensive as to whether or not [Purely Creative scratchcards] were genuine. [Participating was] easy and rewarding. The award was much, much better than expected. I’ll admit I was sceptical about the quality of a free holiday but both trips we went on (Alpine Highlights and Italian Highlights), were superb. [Memorable experience was] a boat trip on Lake Lucerne. As good as any coach tours which I have paid for!’

A Harwood from Neath
Comments:
‘We were a bit sceptical [about the holiday award] to start, thought it was a time share. [Italian and Austrian Highlights awards were] better than expected, really enjoyed meeting new friends. And enjoyed the courier on the bus, Alexandre. Nothing to complain about. I am happy with what I received, perhaps we will do something similar if offered.’

S Typing from Maidstone
Comments:
‘It was just a scratch card, very surprised at the week’s holiday - Italian Highlights. Hotels varied but were clean and food good, beds comfortable. [Memorable experiences were] Florence and Lake Garda.’

K McIntyre from Oban
Comments:
‘Found [Purely Creative scratchcards] interesting and worthwhile. Rewarding. I would recommend the promotions to a friend. [Turkey award] turned out better than expected. No part of the holiday was worse than expected. [Memorable experience was] travelling over the snow-covered Turkish mountains.’

C Preece from London
Comments:
‘[Italian Highlights and Mediterranean Cruise awards] better [than expected. [Memorable experience was] touring with Piero in Sardinia and Corsica. Wonderful!!’

A Howe from Caterham
Comments:
‘139. The Turkish holiday was better than expected. [Memorable experience was] seeing the white-topped mountain at Pamukkale. Worst aspect was lack of legroom on Thomas Cook flights. [Service was] first class – tours, tour guide, coach, hotels all excellent. The half board we paid for in Turkey was genuine, i.e. we had the same choice of food like other hotel guests.’

J Radbournem from Swindon
Comments:
‘[Purely Creative scratchcards are] fine – done it 3 times so far. Okay, no problem. First holiday fantastic, second holiday fantastic, third holiday (in the Med) was great. The hotels were fantastic, thank you. Service fantastic! I would very much like [to do it again]. You’ve got it right, no need to alter.’

H Stockdale from Kelty
Comments:
‘I enjoyed playing the games. It felt good to have played the game and claimed the award and being able to win a holiday. I have recommended [Purely Creative scratchcards] to friends and family. We enjoyed our Italian Highlights award. We were in Rome on Mothering Sunday and just missed the sermon at Vatican City so we just sat out in the sun for the rest of our time. The service from European Vacations was great, we did not go on the tours as we like to go our own way. The holiday was really good, I enjoyed it. Every day another country, it was just great.’

D Bennet from Crith
Comments:
‘We enjoyed the France and Spain holiday awards. It was nice to have a week away twice at different places as both of us had problems to go to places much. I would [do it again] but my husband passed away in February. I think it was nice, we both enjoyed them.’

M Radford from Horsham
Comments:
‘[Turkey award] better than expected – particularly the hotels. Best aspects were the facilities and location. Excellent service from European Vacations. I have been on several holiday awards and find they have improved over the years – particularly coach standard. Think guided tours are extremely good value.’

E Davies from Bournemouth
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] we were very dubious as to how you fund a ‘FREE’ holiday (hotel and travel free). [Experience was] quite exciting – very pleased with claiming an award. I would recommend [Purely Creative scratchcards] to a friend – and I have done so. All the holidays we have taken have been very good indeed – well organised and very friendly. For me I didn’t have a bad aspect but my husband had swollen feet. [Memorable experience was] the friendships formed whilst on holiday. Service very good indeed. The drivers were helpful, the hotels chosen clean, comfortable and very adequate for short stays. We would most certainly [do it again]. It’s a very well run organisation.’

N Ashe-Watt from London
Comments:
‘[Holiday company] reliable and efficient. [Memorable experience was] my trip to Italy.’

N D Low from Kent
Destination:
Benidorm
Comments:
‘'Really good selection of attractions we would certainly return as we didn’t go to all. [The best thing about the holiday was the] weather which was terrific, the temperature [didn't] fall below 20 and we didn’t see a cloud in the sky all week and all the excursions that we did. It was good. We would certainly do another Whoopydoo! trip.’

W Holland from Horsham
Comments:
‘Unsure and suspicious [before playing the scratchcard]. Now I’ve been on two trips, yes would recommend to a friend. The excursions always good. Service excellent on a basic level, but that’s all that I require. Just keep up with the wide choices.’

M McGuire from Wigan
Comments:
‘[Purely Creative scratchcards are] very good, keep on doing the prizes. [Participating was] very good and the prize was very good as I had never been abroad before. I would recommend to a friend. We enjoyed [Italian Highlights award] very much. [Memorable experience was] the visit to Italy itself and meeting new people. Going to Pisa and Venice the scenery was fabulous. I would go on a won holiday again.’

G Stewart from Llantarnam
Comments:
‘Sceptical before playing my first scratchcard. Exciting [experience] – absolutely stunning! I would definitely and have recommended to friends. [Turkey, Paris and Italian Highlights awards] better [than expected]. [Memorable experience was] Turkey – it was amazing to see the sights, e.g. fresh waterfall into sea, Pamukkale, ancient city etc. Excellent service. Entirely satisfied.’

M Gibb from Southport
Comments:
‘Bit cynical at first – but not alarmed! I never thought I was getting myself into something I would regret (as would be the case with ‘time-share’ promotions). Did not actually expect anything to come of it, just filled things in for fun and then forgot all about it. Later… Austrian and Italian Highlights awards better [than expected]. Went on 2nd one on basis of enjoying 1st one and other travellers’ recommendation. [Memorable experience was] a spontaneous musical recital in the hotel in Austria (because we had an opera singer and a pianist on the bus) – superb! Can we go again please, to somewhere else and as cheaply!!’

C Costello from Ballynahinch
Comments:
‘[Purely Creative scratchcards are] very good, excellent. I went on 2 holidays. [Memorable experiences were] seeing the different places, meeting new people, the good company. Choice of places and variety of them, good food and good hotels.’

G Gillings from Stevenage
Comments:
‘Felt not very good [about promotions before taking part]. [Experience] alright, would recommend. Austrian Highlights award better [than expected] - the sights in Switzerland! Excellent [service from European Vacations].’

M Streeter from Norwich
Comments:
‘My first holiday originated from a scratchcard. I wasn’t really sure whether the holidays existed. Now I think [Purely Creative scratchcards] are a good idea, I’ve recommended them to friends. I’ve taken friends with me on some of the [holidays]. Holidays always turn out better than expected. I enjoy seeing different places and meeting new friends, some of whom I meet up with. Out of 8 holidays only one hotel had a poor breakfast. I love the boat rides in Venice, climbing up the tower of Pisa, belly dancing in Turkey, seeing the Eiffel Tower lit up at night. Very good [service from holiday companies], no problems. I thoroughly enjoy the holiday awards and I’m hoping to go on a different one soon.’

A Pleasant from Richmond
Comments:
‘Very dubious [before playing the scratchcard], sceptical. I am very happy with the award, I would recommend [Purely Creative scratchcards] to a friend and have done so. Spanish Cruise far better than expected. [Memorable experience was] a visit to the village on the tour (Santillana). Complete satisfaction – well done!’

K Laurence from Faversham
Comments:
‘Quite sceptical [before playing the scratchcard], but loved all of it. [Italian Highlights award was] excellent trip, driver and courier good – loved driving through the Swiss and Austrian Alps, the scenery was breathtaking. Excellent level of service [from European Vacations]. We had a lovely time.’

P Sealy from London
Comments:
‘[Playing the scratchcard was] exciting. Happy and overjoyed, everything was just great. [Italian Highlights award] just as I expected. The hotels were great, the scenery, me and my son had a wonderful experience. [Memorable experience was] moving from hotel to hotel, hearing the bells chime, Venice, Florence – just great to experience, such places I never dreamed of going to. The service [from European Vacations] was of a high standard, very informative and friendly. I just love [the holiday awards]. What you are offering is giving people a chance to get out and about, be in great hotels and the chance of fellowship with likeminded people.’

B Sabatirie from Chesham
Comments:
‘[Before taking part] I thought the prizes were worth less than the cost of the phone call. The Turkey holiday award was better than expected. Seeing the ruined city of Hierapolis [was a memorable experience]. Excellent service – an excellent company.’

A Dudley from Mansfield
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard felt] worried. [Afterwards wondered why we worried beforehand. Satisfaction. We didn’t know what to expect [from Turkey holiday award] but were pleasantly surprised. [Memorable experience was] visiting Pamukkale, Hierapolis ancient city.’

R Banyard from Corringham
Comments:
‘Very doubtful [before playing the scratchcard] as you always assume there is a catch. Very apprehensive – and delighted on the response. [Purely Creative scratchcards are] very commendable, would recommend to a friend! [Italian Highlights award was] far better than expected. Very hectic but acceptable. [Memorable experiences were] the scenery and the amount of interest of the whole holiday. Very good service, completely satisfied. Thank you very much, wonderful time.’

M Joshi from Manchester
Comments:
‘Always look forward to [Purely Creative scratchcards], full of joy. Very exciting. I have already talked about them to friends. [The holiday award] was very enjoyable, we had so much fun with fellow holiday makers. Sight seeing and accommodation was very well organised. The whole holiday was most memorable, we enjoyed each and every moment of it. Very excellent [service], looking forward to going again in 2011.’

D McParlan from Cambridge
Comments:
‘I like to take part [in Purely Creative scratchcards], it is a simple process claiming the award. [Italian Highlights award] started off bad for the first two days (being stuck in traffic jams) but after that it went really well and was a good experience. [Memorable experiences were] meeting new people and making friends. Seeing so much beautiful scenery in Austria, Italy and Switzerland and the Alps. Venice was tops and Stephanie the tour guide. Thank you for your holiday awards, Italy x 2, France, Austria and Switzerland, Spain and Turkey.’

D Cook from Christchurch
Comments:
‘Had not heard of [Purely Creative scratchcards] before, [experience was] good. [Italian Highlights award] better than expected. [Memorable experiences were] ride on a gondola in Venice, St Mark’s Square, leaning tower of Pisa, boat trip on Lake Garda. We enjoyed all hotels except one, the scenery was breathtaking. Enjoyed the change from flying and saw so much more. Coach driver excellent and very friendly and helpful.’

R Tarran from Midhurst
Comments:
‘[Purely Creative scratchcards are] very good. Switzerland and Austria [award] better than expected. [Memorable experience was] going up to the mountains in cable cars, and the views. The tour guide was very helpful and made my holiday.’

J Haigh from Huddersfield
Comments:
‘[Taking part in the promotion was] fine, I have three holidays still to take. Yes [would recommend Purely Creative scratchcards], mother has filled one in. [Turkey holiday award] all good. [Memorable experiences were] meeting with friends from a previous trip! Excellent value and quality of food, efficient staff. Excellent service. Would go again, time permitting.’

E Hedley from Leeds
Comments:
‘[Experience of taking part in Purely Creative scratchcards was] very good. I have enjoyed all my holidays with you, better [than expected]. My son goes with me. We would love to go to Italy again, visit all the places we did before but for longer. There are still places for me to see and things to do. All my holidays have been memorable.’

A Trew from Islandmagee
Comments:
‘I wasn’t sure that [the scratchcard] was a good offer but because I had nothing to lose I went ahead. Very easy to play etc., full of information. I would definitely recommend [Purely Creative scratchcards] to everyone I know. [The Italian Highlights award] was much better than I expected and a very enjoyable experience. Because everything is so well organised it means a great holiday can be had without any of the work involved. Worst thing was having to come home! I could have stayed for so much longer. The coach was comfortable. I can’t give just one memorable moment as there were quite a few. Seeing Rome and the Vatican, Lake Garda, Venice, leaning tower of Pisa, Swiss and Austrian scenery was fantastic – and all in one trip! Service from European Vacations was very, very good. Everyone was pleasant and helpful at all times. Yes [would do it again]! Am going to pack a bag now, just in case. The only change I can think of would be to extend the number of days per trip.’

P Rogerson from Saltdean
Comments:
‘I wondered if it was a genuine offer. I was pleased to take part – good ideas. [Paris and Italy holiday awards] better [than expected]. [Memorable experience was] time spent exploring different places and meeting new friends. Very good service, hotels good, wonderful places. Good commentaries from the guides. The holidays that I have had were great.’

S Francis from Anglesey
Comments:
‘Before playing [the scratchcards] had not rated them as genuine offers. [Participation experience was] very easy – and enjoyable when award was received. Awards are fun, yes I would [recommend Purely Creative scratchcards]. I loved the Italian Highlights itinerary, the company and the guide were brilliant. Better than expected. Very good service from European Vacations.’

A Cosgrove from Darwen
Comments:
‘Would recommend [Purely Creative scratchcards] to a friend. [Italy and Turkey holiday awards] better [than expected] – very enjoyable. [Memorable experiences were] sightseeing and enjoyable stays at first rate hotels. [Service from European Vacations] very good – admin through to holiday reps. Holidays were excellent, very surprised at holidays available and excellent service available.’

P Freeman from Plymouth
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcards] I did not have much idea about them but I found it very interesting. I would recommend them to a friend. The [Italian Highlights award] was wonderful, I really enjoyed it very much. It was one of the best times ever and I loved every moment. [Memorable experiences were] going to all the paces – that was different and very exciting. The guided tours were very interesting and going to Venice, Rome and Lake Garda was like a dream come true. The service was very good, they really thought about the travellers and made them very comfortable. European Vacations give you a really lovely holiday, and every effort is made for your comfort – they really think about every detail to give you a good time. The tour guide, Richard, was very helpful and very informative. Yes I would [do it again], I found the holiday a great experience. I had never had a holiday for a long time and I found it very exciting, and went to so many places that I have never seen before. It was a holiday I shall never forget.’

S Flynn from Haywards Heath
Comments:
‘[Playing the scratchcard], was fine, no problems. It was a good experience and I would recommend it. [Italian Highlights award] better than expected. We had a nice crowd and saw a lot of interesting places including Venice. Good service. Yes I would do it again.’

G Mazigi from London
Comments:
‘Holiday award turned out to be much better than my wife and I really expected. Worst aspects? Too much to do! Too much to see! Too much to admire! The sunrise and the sunset were breathtaking. We took wonderful photos but my wife distributed these to family and friends without keeping a copy. Excellent organisation. The littlest detail was looked into so that we didn’t face bad surprises. Would definitely [do it again], my wife and I are looking forward to a similar adventure, we would like to be informed of every activity.’

W Wilson from Watford
Comments:
‘Relaxed [about Purely Creative scratchcards], satisfactory experience. [Italian Highlights award] better than expected. Would recommend. All OK. [Memorable experience was] all the Italian sights. Good.’

M McAlpine from Market Harborough
Comments:
‘Had little faith in [the promotions before taking part]. Not surprised to win the holiday, it’s usually the lowest of the prizes. But very surprised with the quality of the holiday, was rather doubtful about going on it at first! Yes would recommend Purely Creative scratchcards to a friend. [Turkey holiday award] better than expected. Expected to fly with the cheap airlines so pleased to find out it was Thomas Cook. 2 out of 3 hotels were fabulous. [Worst aspect was] being constantly hassled by shopkeepers, they need to know English do not like it. You could not look, or even glance, at anything and they followed you. [Memorable experience was] the thermal baths in Turkey and the lunches. Exceptional service from European Vacations. Yes would do it again. Our guide in Turkey, Aykut Akur, was wonderful, he looked after us and our welfare, very knowledgeable and very helpful in all aspects. Everything went very smoothly. Thank you for a lovely holiday.’

P Mullis from Penzance
Comments:
‘[Playing the scratchcard was] really worthwhile, very good. Yes, for sure I would recommend to a friend. Austria, Switzerland and Turkey holiday awards were a lot better [than expected] – very enjoyable – we learnt a lot. [Memorable experiences were] seeing different countries – customs etc, hotels were brilliant, very well chosen and very clean, and we met lots of new friends. Excellent. Yes [would do it again] for sure – any offers for the future please.’

F Gough from Mold
Comments:
‘First took part in a scratchcard promotion for the Italy trip two years ago. It was exciting to take part. We would recommend [Purely Creative scratchcards] to a friend and have previously done so on a number of occasions. The [Spanish cruise and stay] holiday turned out to be much better than expected. We thoroughly enjoyed all the venues visited and were very pleased to have met up unexpectedly with friends we made on a previous holiday with European Vacations two years ago. [Worst aspect was] we were served fish in various guises on three of the four nights at the hotel. Apart from that the hotel and its position suited us very well. There were many memorable moments on the holiday, but perhaps the most memorable was the visit to the beautiful city of San Sebastian. The level of service from European Vacations was excellent. All representatives of the company were extremely helpful and courteous, which made our holiday all the more enjoyable. We would go on a similar holiday in the future. Really there aren’t any ways in which we think the holiday could have been improved upon, apart from what we previously stated about the food in the hotel. From the outset we thoroughly enjoyed the mini cruise and the very interesting and in some cases diverse and beautiful places we visited. Many thanks for a wonderful holiday. Cheers – here’s to the next one.’

B Miller from Wallingford
Comments:
‘I enjoyed playing this promotion because it was genuine in presentation and reward. Yes [would recommend to a friend], good promotions. [Spanish cruise and stay holiday] better than expected. Excellent driving (Pete and Kev), good choice of hotel and attentive staff, interesting trips, comfortable coach, office staff courteous and helpful.’

J Gallagher from Market Harborough
Comments:
‘[Before taking part] felt a little doubtful as to whether the competition was ‘kosher’ or not – or am I going to get a large bill afterwards? When I realised it was ‘kosher’ I was at ease and happier to take part. Yes, I would recommend [Purely Creative scratchcards], I did go twice to Venice by the coach trips. Both were enjoyable and interesting.’

F Cutting from Haverfordwest
Comments:
‘Suspicious [before playing the scratchcard] – didn’t expect much. [Italian Highlights award] better than expected, especially Lake Garda lake trip. Excellent service from European Vacations, excellent guide.’

D Watkins from Bridgwater
Comments:
‘I always love doing competitions. I think they are excellent value and I would recommend them to a friend. The first holiday was to Switzerland and Austria and I said it was the best holiday I had ever had. We were taken as a party to see and do things, i.e. going up a mountain in a cable car, going on the train, visiting a distillery – not just dropped in a strange town to do our own thing. Loved the mountain train ride in the snow. First class service, nothing was too much trouble. The cruise and stay holiday was superb – entertainment on board, cinema, swimming pool, or you could just sit quietly and watch the sea for wild life. Choice of eating venues, in Spain seeing the cave drawings by prehistoric people.’

J Botterill from Mexborough
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard felt] a bit dubious! [Participating was] really worthwhile. Yes would recommend to a friend – always give it a try. [Venice and Austrian Tyrol awards] better than expected. Finding myself in these wonderful places, seeing sights I never imagined I would get to see!’

D Ireland from London
Comments:
‘[Purely Creative scratchcards are] useful. [Italian Highlights award was] better than expected. There were no bad aspects of this holiday – every moment was memorable.’

J Nash from Welwyn Garden City
Comments:
‘[Before taking part thought the promotion was] not probable. Yes would recommend. I still have friends from the first trip. [Switzerland/Austria and Turkey awards] better [than expected. [Memorable experience was] sights in Switzerland and Austria. Hotels great. Very good [service from European Vacations].’

D Robertson from Sleaford
Comments:
‘The promotional competition rules read well and made everything clear. It was important to know that there was no time-share commitment. The [Italian Highlights award] was definitely better than I could have expected. My visits to Rome and Florence [were memorable experiences] – both wonderful, so much to see and do. The coach drivers, George and Alistair, were excellent. Our guide Michael was first class, and extra helpful when I took ill on the penultimate day and ended up in hospital near Verona for the next two weeks. My son (with learning difficulties) had to travel home on his own with my luggage. The drivers and courier were more than helpful and I am so grateful to them.’

M Habens from Portsmouth.
Comments:
‘Very sceptical [before participating]. In this case [the Purely Creative] experience was fine – unfortunately there are still a number of less reputable set-ups. I have been on a number of the holidays, to Paris, Austria and Switzerland and Turkey and I have thoroughly enjoyed them all, better [than expected], well organised, excellent. The couriers and tour guides are concerned about people. I particularly enjoyed travelling on the Alpine Express but I loved Lucerne and Lake Garda and the hotels we stayed in. Excellent [service]. Yes would do it again. I have loved all the holidays.’

J Anderson from Ashton-under-Lyne
Comments:
‘[Sceptical] before taking part in the promotion. Very easy [to participate]. Opinion [of Purely Creative scratchcards] very good, I have recommended them. [Normandy/Paris and Switzerland/Austria awards] much better than expected. [Worst aspect was] discrepancy in hotel locations in Carn, one being in the centre of the town and another out in the sticks. [Memorable experiences were] Chambord and Ambiose in France, Lucerne and Glacier Express, top of Pilates mountain in Switzerland. Very good service.’

D Thompson from London
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard felt] probably sceptical about something so good for so little money! The promotions are excellent and we have enjoyed the two we have taken part in. We would recommend to friends if asked by them. The [Italian Highlights award] was excellent and we enjoyed it immensely. I guess having already been to Switzerland we knew what to expect. [Memorable experiences were] visiting the town of Gangiarno (spelling!) rather than go to Rome for the day. Very good service from European Vacations. Yes would do it again, annual leave permitting.’

R Smith from Huddersfield
Comments:
‘Sceptical [before playing the scratchcard]. Sure would [recommend to a friend]. Italian Highlights award much better than expected. Loved visiting Florence, but all was memorable. Service from European Vacations couldn’t have been better.’

T Iranova from Sunderland
Comments:
‘At first I was very sceptical and not sure if I was going to win, and not sure that even if I did I would actually get to go on a trip. Difficult to ring the telephone number and not doubt the fact that I may be wasting my money on the phone call. Right up until I was in Dover I was sure something would go wrong and I would have to turn back. I would definitely recommend [Purely Creative scratchcards] to a friend and have already done so on many occasions. [Switzerland and Italy award] was all very nice and there were no bad aspects. In the town next to the hotel where we stayed there was a little coffee shop where they sold the most delicious cakes! I liked it, it was good, professional service was provided, the tour guide was fantastic and worked really hard.’

D Jacobs from Sudbury
Comments:
‘Had never bothered much about competitions or entering any. The Italian Highlights holiday that I went on was a lot better than I had anticipated. In fact I was pleasantly surprised. [Memorable experience was] coming out of the tunnel from Switzerland from heavy mist into bright sunshine, just as our courier, Honey, had said. Couldn’t fault European Vacations, excellent. The coach drivers and courier were really good. When I got the Italian Highlights voucher I was very sceptical and a bit wary, but the way the holiday turned out I found European Vacations to be very professional in their approach, and the holiday was far better than I had imagined it would be.’

A Williams from Tredegar
Comments:
‘Didn’t bother [about the promotions before taking part]. Good [experience]. Yes [would recommend]. I enjoyed everything about the [Italian Highlights award], better [than expected]. Very good [service from European Vacations].’

V Lindridge from Havant
Comments:
‘I was quite happy to take part, depending on the possible gain. Good value - enjoyable holidays. Quite pleasant. [Turkey and Austria and Switzerland awards were] about the same as expected. One hotel was not quite as good as I had hoped and one was better than expected. Plenty going on, good trips, good company, everyone disposed to be friendly. European Vacations are great.’

S White from London
Comments:
‘Wary [before playing the scratchcard]. Good [experience]. Very good, yes I would recommend. [Holiday award] better than expected. Ski-lift and mountainous views [were memorable experiences]. Very good service.’

T Browne, St Helier
Comments:
‘Exciting, I have recommended [Purely creative scratchcards] to many friends. All of the holiday awards better than expected. We were never disappointed. 2 visits to Italy, one to Turkey. [Memorable experience was] the camaraderie which eventually develops in being with people on an adventure.’

W Chaplin from Oxford
Comments:
‘I thought there was not much chance of winning a prize when there were not many of those prizes available. Having claimed small prizes and holidays I have spoken to many [friends] about it. All the holidays turned out better than expected. The fantastic double decker coach and the excitement of seeing the hotel room [were memorable experiences]. Good service at all times. Thank you.’

M Parsons from Alresford
Comments:
‘Easy to play and claim. Italian Highlights – amazing trip, fabulous attractions and a full tour of Italy. One of the best holidays I’ve been on. Venice – beautiful. Gondolas were better than expected and the taxi boats very useful. All of the surroundings were like stepping back in time. Truly memorable.’

A Halmshali from Cleveleys
Comments:
‘[Turkey award] better than expected, hotels good, food excellent. Trip to Pamukkale and making the carpets demo [were memorable experiences]. Good service from European Vacations.’

R Wilson from Shrewsbury
Comments:
‘A little apprehensive [before playing the scratchcard], but Italian Highlights award was all OK. I agree with the way you do the competitions and your trips seem to be planned well.’

E Kneen from Douglas
Comments:
‘Had not given much thought [to Purely Creative scratchcards] before taking part. Sceptical – the offer of a free holiday seemed too good to be true. First holiday to Paris was about the same as expected. Trip to Italy was excellent. The variety of memorable experiences on the Italy trip was immensely enjoyable - the scenery travelling through Switzerland, the sights in Pisa, Florence, Rome and Venice and the visit to Lake Garda. Very good service from European Vacations. Guides gave very informative help. Coach drivers excellent.’

D Underhill from Salisbury
Comments:
‘Apprehensive [before playing the scratchcard], I enjoyed it. Would recommend to a friend. Holiday in Austrian and Switzerland better [than expected], saw beautiful scenery and comfortable hotels. Waking in the Austrian Alps [was a memorable experience]. Very good service, would do it again if I could fit it in my busy life and family.’

C Sadler from Benfleet
Comments:
‘I felt nervous [before playing the scratchcard], thinking it was a scam. Had Italian Highlights award. I thought it was excellent to see so many interesting places, and another one which was Switzerland. At first it seemed a long trip from Dover right through to Switzerland but was worth it when we got there. [Memorable experience was] Venice, going on the gondolas and going on a cable car to the top of a mountain and having seen snow was wonderful. Very good. Drivers were good, felt safe.’

E Green from Weston-super-Mare
Comments:
‘[Playing the scratchcard was] exciting. [Memorable experience was] returning to Venice after 40 years – very enjoyable day on the boat and also gondola and a visit to Pisa. Hotel Amethyst very lovely hotel, nice bedroom and pools. Very nice.’

S Broome from Shrewsbury
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard felt it was] too good to be true – what’s the catch?? Did not think anything would come from it. Very surprised when it all came together! [My opinion of Purely Creative scratchcards is] loved them all. All four holiday awards (Turkey, Italy, France and Austria) have been great. Especially Turkey. Touring Paris was wonderful in October, day and night, excellent drivers. Austria – beautiful!’

A Pye from Sale
Comments:
‘Originally suspicious [before playing the scratchcard]. Claiming the award was fantastic. I have recommended 100s of people to your company over the years. I didn’t know what to expect [from] Paris, Italy and Italian Highlights awards and one other trip. [Memorable experiences were] the wonderful travellers, bus drivers and tour guides. Perfect. Yes I would do it again – send me a voucher please!’

H Senior from Sutton
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] I did not know what to expect, but it turned out to be OK. Italian Highlights holiday award was as expected. [Memorable experience was] visit to the glass factory. Good.’

M Shah from Gatley
Comments:
‘[Purely Creative scratchcards are] very good, excellent and have talked about them to friends and family. Yes would recommend to a friend of course. [Turkey award] better than expected and very good. I did not find any worst aspects at all. [Memorable experience was] the excursion where for first time saw salt glacier with water spring – very beautiful. Excellent. Of course I’d do it again – all the time. We got all the facilities and vegetarian food where expected. I took my brother who is disabled as his right hand side is paralysed and was very well looked after. We prefer the same sort of holidays as he got all disability requirements.’

M Welland from Bordo
Comments:
‘Didn’t know if we could trust them [before playing the scratchcard]. Exciting experience. Yes would recommend to a friend. Italian Highlights holiday better than anticipated. No worst aspects. Lake Garda was memorable. Very good.’

E Evans from Paignton
Comments:
‘Very easy [participation experience]. Yes would recommend promotions to a friend. Italian Highlights award better than expected. Going to Rome [was best aspect]. Very good service from European Vacations.’

L Ram from Sevenoaks
Comments:
‘Happy to take part [in Purely Creative scratchcards]. Very good experience, would recommend to a friend]. [Five holiday awards were] very enjoyable. Enjoyed the free holidays – the deposit is paid back on the second day of the holiday. Been to places of interest, enjoyed visiting Turkey and the coach holidays very much. European Vacations holidays very good. The tour guide ‘Richard’ from Austria was excellent, lovely comfortable coach, drivers very helpful and caring. The flight holiday to Turkey – excellent, will be happy to travel with European Vacations always.’

R Alderson from Potters Bar
Comments:
‘[Purely Creative scratchcards are] very satisfactory. We would recommend them to anyone. I hope you keep on doing them. We really enjoyed our holiday, met some very nice people and the driver and [courier] were very helpful. I cannot get off the bus very well and [the courier] was always there to help. [Spanish Cruise and Stay award] turned out to be better than expected, the trip we went on – all of them – and enjoyed them. [Worst aspect was when] the coach broke down when we set off from London. The two men, Peter and cannot remember the name of the other one, were excellent. [The courier] everyone liked, she dashed up and down the stairs making drinks for everyone. [Memorable experience was] when we went to the caves, we could have spent all day there. Very good service [from European Vacations]. Would definitely love to go on another one next year, or Turkey.’

P Dodd from Wallasy
Comments:
‘Sceptical [before playing the scratchcard] – no such thing as a free lunch! Was waiting for a catch! Impressed with award of a holiday, would recommend promotions to a friend. Would do it again definitely! [Italian Highlights award] better than expected. [Worst aspect was] lost camera so no photos! And would be better over 10 days. [Memorable experiences were] Rome, Florence, Pisa, Tuscany, etc. etc. – in other words, all the wonderful sights.’

A Beckwith from Halifax
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] I did not really expect to win anything worth having. [Participating was] a nice surprise but I was unsure about the holiday – whether it would materialise or not. [Having claimed an award] I would recommend [Purely Creative scratchcards] to anyone and would go again tomorrow. I did not know what to expect but [Italian Highlights award] was fabulous. The long coach journey was OK with regular stops. [Memorable experience was] the journey from Switzerland to Italy – magnificent scenery and not something that I would otherwise have seen. Excellent guide and driver. Would go again today! There were people on the holiday who were ‘regulars’. That says it all.’

H Paterson from Carluke
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] I never expected to get anything, let alone a lovely holiday. [Participating was] exciting and no trouble at all. Good promotions, I would recommend them to a friend. [Italian Highlights award] better than I expected. Everything was great. The gondola ride in Venice was truly special. I never thought I would do that in my lifetime. [Service was] very good. We had a very good tour guide called Allessandro, very helpful, always looked after us well and told us endless interesting things about Italy. My friend and I enjoyed the experience thoroughly and so did everybody else on the trip.’

N Devlin from London
Comments:
‘Sceptical [before playing the scratchcard], I had to send an SAE and wait for the reply. Good [opinion of Purely Creative scratchcards], would recommend to a friend. Thank you for them – and can I have the next one please? [Italian Highlights award] better than expected. Sitting staring at the Grand Canal in Venice with my friend [was a memorable experience].’

V Passi from Nottingham.
Comments:
‘It is very good, that promotion. Very good award, winning holiday. Yes I recommend to my friend and I take my friend with me on holiday to Turkey. It is better [than expected], everything gone on the time. I enjoy my holiday everywhere I went, Highlight Italian and Alpine holiday as well. My best holiday is Turkey, and Italy holiday as well. [Service from European Vacations] is very good, they give every information. I want to go again. Please send me and I can go with my friend every year on holiday.’

J Scott from Luton
Comments:
‘Wasn’t really sure about [the scratchcards before taking part]. Pretty good [experience]. Yes I would recommend them to a friend. We really enjoyed Paris and Italian Highlights holidays. Better than we expected. The worst aspect was the long wait checking in at two of the hotels. [Memorable experience was] the beautiful scenery of the Italian Highlights. The hotels were really good. I loved Tuscany and Rome and Venice. We had really good fun on the coach and made lots of friends. The coach drivers were very friendly and helpful. Very good, I definitely would do it again. I thought the drivers and the couriers were brilliant on both Paris and Italian Highlights.’

A Richards from St Albans
Comments:
‘I always enjoy doing these promotional comps as they pass the time of day. Liked [the participation experience] enormously, liked the promotion and have already told lots of my friends, some of whom have taken holiday awards with yourselves. [Italian Highlights award] turned out to be great – better than expected. [Worst aspect was] not being able to do all that the other passengers could do being on crutches. [Memorable experience was] visiting Lake Garda.’

R Kerr from Carmarthen
Comments:
‘I tend to complete some competitions but I don’t really expect to win any prizes. Having claimed an Italian Highlights award I think it was wonderful to be taken to see places that we would never get to see otherwise. Standing looking at the Leaning Tower of Pisa – truly a wonder of the world!! The two guys with our group couldn’t have been more helpful.’

R Chandro from Addlestone
Comments:
‘We both find the competitions very interesting. We look forward to entering the competition and claiming the prizes. We would recommend any friend to participate in the competitions and look forward to an award. The most recent holiday award we went on was to Turkey and we found it very interesting. The guide was brilliant and we learnt a lot on the cultural aspects of Turkey and the people and their conceptions about foreign tourists. A better holiday than expected. [Memorable experience was] to learn about other countries’ cultural and social aspects of life – their traditional food and drink and their interactions with tourists. Good service – good communication in UK.’

B Livingstone-Stallard from Westcliff-on-Sea
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] I wondered what the holiday award would be like and how well organised it would be and the mix of people, as one questions for any holiday. I don’t remember the original game very clearly but it seemed acceptable or I would not have entered. There was an element of risk, which turned out to be of needless concern. [Playing the scratchcard was] straightforward. The Italian Highlights award was absolutely up to expectations for the actual content and accommodation in good hotels with pleasant company. [Worst aspect was] my partner did not like the heat of Italy. [Memorable experiences were] the Vatican and Sistine Chapel with Lake Garda and Limone my ideal places to stay. I had visited Riva del Garda before and loved it. Florence was a lovely town too. At Pisa it was extremely hot, even in May and queues prohibited visiting the tower of Pisa so we had a very pleasant meal close by with the tower in view. I would [do it again], possibly on my own, and if that was the case hope I may be able to chum up with another in like position if the opportunity presented. The Italian Highlights holiday was very enjoyable with wonderful scenery and great places to visit. Thank you for the opportunity.’

B Burge from Old Hanlow
Comments:
‘Although suspicious at first I was pleasantly surprised. Yes [would recommend Purely Creative scratchcards to a friend], there is a tangible reward. Italian Highlights award was better than expected in most respects. [Worst aspect was] at the beginning, trying to find a parking space for the car at Dover where we joined the party. Venice is always the most breathtaking view. The Lake Garda boat trip was lovely. Good driver helpful.’

S Jones from Haverfordwest
Comments:
‘Scratchcards are a good idea, if genuine. Good [participation experience]. Having claimed an award I would recommend them to friends. [Spanish Cruise award] as expected, having previously travelled on the Austria and Switzerland trip. [Worst aspects were] none to speak of. [Memorable experience was] having calm sea in Bay of Biscay. Isla is a lovely spot to relax in the Basque country. Good service.’

A Bellamy from Prestwich
Comments:
‘Italian Highlights award was something I wouldn’t have done without the offer. The scenery was spectacular, getting to know fellow travellers, everything, fantastic. Very good.’

S Bussey from Rickmansworth
Comments:
‘Initially my husband claimed the award but didn’t want to go so I went on my own. Recommended the scratchcards to a friend once or twice. I always do homework online before going to decide whether I’ll need to book excursions and if I need to take travel kettles and supplies if in a hotel not near shops. Paris was better than expected, as was the second trip, to Austria and Switzerland. [Memorable experiences were] 1) seeing Paris by night from the coach and spending two days exploring on my own with a Metro card. Gave me confidence in ‘rusty’ French language skills. 2) Ascent of Mount Pilates on a lovely sunny day, and a railway trip through the Alps. Or perhaps looking out of Swiss hotel window at Lake Lucerne and the snow-capped Alps beyond in the moonlight. Very good service indeed. Great drivers and courier. Very efficient and resourceful at coping with delays out of their control. I took a mini radio/CD player and a couple of good books for if I wasn’t feeling sociable – but very pleasant people on the trip as a whole so didn’t need them. Took maps so I knew where I was and guidebooks in case guides/couriers not very good – but they were excellent, especially on the Alps trip. Overall, most impressed. Thoroughly enjoy travel of any sort anyway and used to being independent. Can’t quite work out how you make any money but you obviously fill up empty/half full hotels off season. Most impressed by the luxurious coach on the Alpine trip. Not too full so two seats available for lone travellers, plenty of leg room, regular refreshments – loved the sat nav linked screen so we could see where we were – compared favourably with plane’s flight map.’

A Duncan from Cumbernauld
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] did not trust it at all – thought it was some kind of scam. Others say they couldn’t be bothered with it. I loved every minute of my Italian Highlights holiday award. Every place was memorable in its own right. Service was first class – from careful, knowledgeable drivers to competent couriers familiar with their role and eager to see everyone satisfied and cared for. The tour guides were all good too. Buses are very comfortable, accommodation well chosen. Yes indeed [would do it again]. For what you are setting out to achieve I guess it’s as efficient and encompassing as possible, no improvements necessary. In today’s world there is security in your vacations – being supervised all the time, with access to help in English wherever we are. Locations suit my taste well.’

C Speranza from Sevenoaks
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] felt they were a waste of time and a gimmick or con! The promotion and the award was excellent, I would recommend a friend to the company. The Italian Highlights award was much better than expected. The holiday was excellent. [Memorable experiences were] the lovely location in Ebb, relaxing and a lovely village. The level of service was good, polite, helpful. Yes [would do it again] definitely.’

P Byne from Lancing
Comments:
‘Before playing I felt a little apprehensive. Now I think Purely Creative scratchcards are very worthwhile. Excellent idea – keep up the good work! Italian Highlights award turned out to be better [than expected]. Visiting Rome [was a memorable experience]. Very good service. ’

E Rogers from Northam
Comments:
‘Alpine Highlights award better than expected – I was surprised, especially as to the quality of the hotels and food. Very good service on the whole.’

M Norris from Tonbridge
Comments:
‘A little bit dubious [before playing the scratchcard], because of previous competitions we took part in with other promoters. We decided to claim anyway. [Purely Creative scratchcards are] very good, we have been on two holidays, one of which was a mini cruise with transfers to Corsica and Sardinia. Better [than expected]. Night in hotel in Corsica by sea [was memorable experience]. Laconia Hotel – we had the best meal of the holiday, and earlier swam in the sea outside the hotel, followed by a concert in a large marquee in the garden. Excellent! Very good.’

P Devoy from Wallasey
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard had] mixed feelings. Good Italian Highlights award. Worrying about the possibility of getting lost [was worst aspect]. Visiting Rome [was memorable experience].’

D Kingston from Doncaster
Comments:
‘I enjoy competitions and felt comfortable taking part in the promotion. Very exciting, and even more excited when I received a voucher for a holiday in Italy. Yes of course I would recommend Purely Creative to a friend. [Italian Highlights award] was a lot better than we expected it to be. Visiting Switzerland, Venice and Rome [was a memorable experience]. Very well organised and we were looked after very well.’

W Lewis from St Leonards-on-Sea
Comments:
‘Very apprehensive [before playing the scratchcard], never played before. Yes [would recommend Purely Creative scratchcards to a friend], the Italian Highlights holiday was excellent. [Worst aspects were] none. Going on a gondola [was memorable experience]. Every bit was enjoyable. Good food, good company and an excellent coach driver and courier. What more could one want? First class service from European Vacations. Just to say thank you.’

T Shaw from Ellistown
Comments:
‘I rarely took part [in scratchcards] as I thought I would never win. [Participating was] very exciting and it made me feel very good. I have already recommended to friends. [Italian Highlights award was] much better than expected. [Worst aspect was] coming home again. Sitting in the square opposite the Pantheon having a coffee [was memorable experience]. Florence was wonderful, Rome was a life-time ambition. Pisa was spectacular, never thought I’d see it for real. Excellent. The games are good. Just give me a chance to do it again.’

F Heathcote from Hexham
Comments:
‘A bit sceptical [before playing the scratchcard] – thinking you don’t get something for nothing! Didn’t know what to expect. [Now I think Purely Creative scratchcards are] great! I would definitely recommend to a friend. [Italian Highlights award] much better [than expected]. I took my mum and she really enjoyed it. Tuscany [was memorable experience], I thought it was beautiful. Our guide was excellent. Yes I definitely would [do it again], very good indeed. Thank you for an enjoyable holiday.’

P Clifford from Milton Keynes
Comments:
‘I felt very unsure [before playing the scratchcard]. I thought it was going to be a scam. Delighted it wasn’t. [Participating was] exciting. Happy [after claiming an award], and have recommended [Purely Creative scratchcards] to friends. Seeing so many countries [was a memorable experience] – having great fun, laughs and making so many new friends. [Worst aspect] – longer at each place would have been nice. Yes definitely [would do it again]. I think it is a great way for someone like me living on a small pension to get a holiday offer. A lovely break to look forward to. Thank you.’

M Pitts from Chippenham
Comments:
‘I enjoy the ‘buzz’ of the competition and discovery of outcome. [Participating is] good and exciting. [Purely Creative scratchcards are] worth doing and I have recommended to friends. Most holidays have been excellent and very enjoyable. [Memorable experience was] visiting Venice – we were given just enough time there to see all we wanted. On the Alpine holiday enjoyed the scenery. My last holiday was Turkey, enjoyed it. I would like to know of other holiday offers. Generally I am a very satisfied customer.’

S Ishaq from Cheadle Hulme
Comments:
‘I have already recommended [Purely Creative scratchcards] to about 20 relatives and friends. I think [Turkey holiday award was] organized very well. Pamukkale was the highlight of the holiday – generally the scenery and the hotels all were very nice. Guided tours were well planned and felt very safe, would not have been able to do as much on our own. Excellent [service from European Vacations]. We would love to [do it again].’

J Wrathall from Preston
Comments:
‘Not normally taken part [in the promotions] before. No problems. Yes, would recommend to a friend. Turkey [holiday award] better than expected. [Worst aspects] – none - all very good. [Memorable experience was] bathing in hot springs. Good variety of places to visit, i.e. castle, amphitheatre, boat trip, market, mosque etc. Very good [service from European Vacations]. The holiday itinerary was well planned with a good variety of places to visit. The tour guide, Yilmaz, was particularly helpful and his knowledge of the country and the social customs of the people added considerably to the enjoyment of the tour.’

M Petra-Jones from London
Comments:
‘My occupation is a very demanding and stressful one and I do not even find time to read my professional magazines. Therefore taking part in [the scratchcards] was, I felt, a trivial activity, wasteful and time consuming. It took a while to get into it. Once I became serious about a holiday prize following several I had totally ignored I enjoyed the experience immensely. I became quite enthused and excited about the experience, especially holidays and cash awards. The idea that one can travel around the world by being given these opportunities for so little financially is not only exciting but quite rewarding. As my retirement looms close I am certainly looking forward in anticipation. I certainly would recommend [Purely Creative scratchcards] to anyone, including friends. I always travel with a friend with the same interests. The Italian Highlights holiday was fantastic in that the half board suggestion was brilliant. The service provided by the tour guide during the long drive to our hotel accommodation was fantastic. She was bubbly, entertaining and friendly. Visiting Venice, seeing the leaning tower of Pisa and our wonderful fellow travellers [were memorable experiences]. The Coliseum in Rome, the beautiful snow covered mountains – the hole in the floor toilet! What an experience! Just the sense of history rubbing shoulders with the present. Wonderful, everything went smoothly. Of course [would do it again]!! My friends ask me about these holidays that are sent to me. They appear quite flabbergasted when I speak about the games I play that lead me to this, and are pleased for me.’

V Miller from East Grinstead
Comments:
‘Why not have a go? You can’t win if you don’t join in. [Purely Creative scratchcards are] excellent, yes [would recommend to a friend]. [Venice award] about the same as expected, excellent.’

J Corr from Dungarron
Comments:
‘Suspicious [before playing the scratchcard]. Exciting [experience], good value, would recommend. Italian Highlights and Paris awards better [than expected]. Switzerland was a memorable experience. Excellent, Keep going!’

C Holmes from Douglas
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard I was] not really a ‘competition’ person. Turkey holiday award was enjoyable – different to what we would have chosen. Hotels were good. [Memorable experience was] swimming in the natural mineral waters (forget name of place). My skin has never been so soft!’

S Philbrook from Benfleet
Comments:
‘Alpine and Italian Highlights awards better than expected and it was useful to see these areas – lakes, mountains, towns. Thank you for the offers.’

J Davies from Barnstable
Comments:
‘Italian Highlights award much better than expected. [Worst aspect was being] unable to stay longer. [Memorable experience was] to see Austria, Switzerland and Italy. My daughter and I went – we found our coach courier very good indeed and the people on the coach very friendly. Excellent service. From beginning to end the holiday was wonderful.’

S Williams from Exeter
Comments:
‘Turkey holiday award was better than I expected. The tour guide was excellent and the weather better than expected in January. The visits to the archaeological sites – magic! Service good – information about the trip when I needed it. Yes [would do it again].’

L Reed from Ashford
Comments:
‘Italian Highlights award was as good [as expected]. Florence, Rome, Venice [were memorable experiences]. Very good [service]. Yes [would do it again].’

J Holland from Bournemouth
Comments:
‘Apprehensive [before playing the scratchcard] as I wondered if it was genuine. [Participating was] quite exciting and quite easy to claim the award. The Italian Highlights award was a little better than I expected. The trip to Venice [was a memorable experience]. Excellent [service from European Vacations].’

D Warren from Robertsbridge
Comments:
‘To be perfectly honest I never thought about [Purely Creative scratchcards] before taking part. When I received the Italian Highlights award it was exciting as I had never been offered a holiday before. I have already recommended the scratchcards to friends and family. The holiday was better [than expected]. It was a really fun holiday. The whole holiday [was a memorable experience], meeting such interesting but very different people, the scenery, wonderful trips daily, especially Venice. Excellent [service from European Vacations]. Jackie, our courier, was very informative, also she made us feel like a family having fun. She is a very lovely and funny lady who made our holiday one of the best. The actual holiday was a wonderful experience, exciting places, beautiful scenery and a relaxing and fun holiday. We must not forget our coach drivers who took us safely to our destinations daily. They were very friendly and we knew we were in safe hands.’

H Duncan from London
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] not interested! Prepared to wait and see. [Worst aspects of Spanish cruise award were] none. [Memorable experience was] visiting places I had visited years before. Good [service from European Vacations]. Not at all [in need of improvement].’

B Jessop from Rochdale
Comments:
‘Sceptical [before playing the scratchcard]. Easy to play, would recommend, yes. Excellent [service], yes [would do it again]. Better [Italian Highlights award than expected].’

A Cocksedge from Hailsham
Comments:
‘The standard [of the Turkey holiday award] was better than expected. The hotels were clean and comfortable and set in lovely locations. The visit to Hierapolis at Pamukkale was amazing, and the hotel – brilliant with its hot baths! Very good [service from European Vacations]. Excellent customer support due to snow before journey commenced. Yes, definitely [would do it again]. Keep up the good work! We recommend you to all our friends!!’

M Dryhurst from Norwich
Comments:
‘[Italian Highlights award] better [than expected]. Worst aspect [was] delays at Dover – over an hour late. [Memorable experience was Pisa – first visit to that town. [Service] good – polite, informative. Can’t think of anything [to improve the holiday].’

G Prideaux from Manchester
Comments:
‘I was happy to take part [in the promotion]. Much better [Italian Highlights award] than expected. There weren’t any [worst aspects]. Sailing down the Grand Canal in Venice [was memorable experience]. Excellent. Yes [would do it again]. We thoroughly enjoyed the holiday and would be interested in taking another.’

J Hayes from Birmingham
Comments:
‘[Turkey holiday award] was very good. No real bad points. My friend and I both like sight seeing. Service was very good. Yes, we would [do it again].’

D Aylward from Sittingbourne
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard I could] take it or leave it – no thoughts either way. I would certainly recommend the [Italian Highlights] holiday award. Better [than expected]. Rome was memorable experience. Very good.’

M Ledger from St Helens
Comments:
‘[Italian Highlights award] much better [than expected]. Worst aspects? There were none. The actual being in Italy [was memorable experience]. Excellent - considering the length of the tour and the countries we passed through the whole experience was one of the most enjoyable holidays we (my mother and I) have had. The care we received from staff, drivers and guides was excellent. The hotel accommodation 1st rate. Well done!’

V Etcher from St Blazey Par
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] I had no expectations about something I had never experienced before. [Participating was] quite interesting. The [Italian Highlights] holiday was about the same as I expected. Arriving in Rome [was memorable experience]. The meals were excellent, the staff were helpful and the amount of area covered was outstanding.’

D Hopkins from London
Comments:
‘Never really bothered [with the scratchcards] before. [Three holiday awards] much better [than expected]. End of holiday [was worst aspect]. Black Forest in the morning – snowing. Venice and Lido Jesolo in sunshine, Richie the tour guide on one trip – great personality, Rome, Florence, Pietra Santa. [European Vacations] helpful, informative – easy to understand information provided. Yes, definitely [would do it again]. I have taken 3 trips – Italian Highlights – and would do this all again. Visited places that I would not usually have gone to or even knew of in some cases, Hotels were great and we were all treated as individuals by tour guides. Each trip was slightly different and equally as entertaining and wonderful. Please continue.’

A Patterson from Lincoln
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard was] indifferent. [Italian Highlights award] better than expected. The hotels were very good. [Memorable experience was] visit to Rome and the Vatican. Generally good [service]. The coach drivers were very good.’

S Skinner from Deal
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] we always thought they were a scam. [Italian Highlights award] better than expected, the coach travel was excellent, the courier was lovely. Basically very pleased with the whole package. [Memorable experiences were] the fantastic sights and the lovely scenery, such a thrill to see them all. Very very good [service from European Vacations]. Yes, definitely [would do it again].’

J Lyon, Manchester
Comments:
‘Doubtful [before playing the scratchcard]. Better [Turkey holiday award] than expected. The Turkey hotels very good.’

M Sheehan from Stockport.
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] I thought too good to be true. [Venice and Rome holidays] as expected. Seeing places I had never seen [was memorable experience]. Very good.’

A Batliwalla from London
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] was not sure that it was true, but tried it to prove it. The [Italian Highlights award] was nice and better than expected. Meeting people and seeing new places [was memorable experience]. Good [service from European Vacations].’

F Dray from Romney Marsh
Comments:
‘Before I played the scratchcard I thought they were all a catch, not very good. Yes I would [recommend Purely Creative scratchcards to a friend]. Italy, Rome, Venice and Florence just as expected. [Memorable experience was] the amount of places you are taken to. I have enclosed some photos of my Italian holiday.’

D Cieslarova from Hungerford
Comments:
‘I was not sure [the scratchcard] was for real so I was quite interested what will happen. Claiming holiday made me feel fair. We didn’t know what to expect. In genuine it was a lovely holiday. [Memorable experiences were] definitely Florence, Rome and Venice. Walking in Florence, seeing the market place and enjoying the sunshine was fantastic. In Rome – just as well perfect. Bus service was great. Drivers pleasant and friendly, they took good care of us. European Vacations had planned very well. I would love to [do it again]. I forgot – the amazing time on Lake Garda and Switzerland. It was the best views of all. Charming. Thank you for rewarding us with European Vacations holiday – Italian Highlights.’

E Mitchell from Rye
Comments:
‘[Scratchcards are] fine and interesting. I went on Italy Tour, my first time on a coach tour. I loved it. My friend and I had a wonderful time, and this year Turkey which was amazing. Our tour guide, Yelmaz, was fantastic. I would recommend to anyone. Pisa and Florence were amazing in Italy. Pamukkale [in Turkey] was the most beautiful and interesting place. I enjoyed my birthday there. It will never be forgotten.’

J Press from Tunbridge Wells
Comments:
‘Had never done the scratchcards before, and perhaps wouldn’t have done them – but they were inside the Christmas issue of M&S magazine and I thought ‘why not, a bit of fun.’ Pleased to have been awarded the Italian Highlights tour. I’m not a ‘resort’ person – like to see and experience different sights and food. I enjoyed it more than my husband. All ages and types of company and most of them fun to be with. [Memorable experience was] hearing the bells early in the morning when staying on the hill overlooking Lake Lucerne – a moment of peace. I love Italy and have been there several times before. No problems [with service]. Everyone friendly and helpful. It was an experience I shall remember fondly.’

L Cook from Hull
Comments:
‘Wouldn’t normally do scratchcards or these type of promotions – wasn’t sure what you’d end up with. I think a lot of people don’t trust these promotions. [Italian Highlights award] was a great way to see so much of Italy all at once. Loved Venice and Florence in particular – but all the places visited were great, wouldn’t get to see them otherwise. Very good [service from European Vacations], guide was very friendly and helpful. The driver also was friendly and sat with us of an evening. Our guide was from Senegal, very clever – spoke 7 languages. Helped me at all hotels with my gluten free diet.’

L McNeill from Corby
Comments:
‘[Before taking part] I was unsure that the competition was kosher. Not sure if there would be a bus when we arrived at Dover. [Italian Highlights award was] better, much better, than we expected. The scenery [was memorable] and all the lovely people we met who were on the coach tour with us. I was pleasantly surprised at how relaxing it was on the coach in between destinations. The rest of the people were very friendly, myself and my daughter had a really lovely trip.’

G Harrison from Lakenheath
Comments:
‘We were thrilled with the chance of [Italian Highlights] holiday. Rome was the most enjoyable, although we enjoyed all of the sights. Excellent [service from European Vacations]. Thank you so much.’

E Newnham from Weymouth
Comments:
‘It was a great holiday, Florence and Venice was amazing. Seeing Venice [was a memorable experience]. The drivers were great. [Worst aspect was] in one hotel we had pasta for two nights.’

A Harvey from Preston
Comments:
‘[Italian Highlights award] much better than expected. [Memorable experience was] scenery through Switzerland and Italy. Very good [service from European Vacations].’

M Simpson from Glasgow
Comments:
‘Enclosed a letter to obtain a claim number on Cash Card. Thought it was a good way for chance to win good prizes. [Italian Highlights award] was better [than expected]. Excursions by bus to Rome and Venice and Lake Garda and a lovely sail by boat [were memorable experiences]. Very good [service from European Vacations].’

M Gilchrist from Glasgow
Comments:
‘[Holiday award] better [than expected]. Good [service from European Vacations]. I have used Archer Travel, but your accommodation was preferable.’

P Leigh from Worthing
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard felt] lukewarm. The promotion relating to the Italian Highlights holiday was a worthwhile exercise. We did recommend it to a friend who entered and travelled. The Italian Highlights holiday was better than expected. [Worst aspects were] none really, we were glad we took up the meals option, but did not take on the extra tour programme, as so many of them involved getting back on the bus. For my husband (an ex airline pilot who spent his life criss crossing Europe without seeing a damn thing as he puts it), the magnificent road engineering [was a memorable experience]… the bridges, the viaducts, the tunnels, the motorways in the sky (to quote him), in Switzerland, in Italy and Austria. For me the scenery, the hotels, and Venice! I was also very impressed by the German drivers, better than some in the UK. Excellent [service from European Vacations]. Yes [would do it again].’

R Thomson from East-Yell
Comments:
‘We had been before so [Turkey holiday award] was as expected. Excellent [service from European Vacations]. All very well organised. Guide and bus driver excellent. The hotels were beautiful.’

M Burnett from Leeds
Comments:
‘On the whole the [Italian Highlights award] was good, and the places we visited very enjoyable and interesting. The two drivers were excellent, couldn’t fault them, kind, considerate and helpful.’

M Pratt from Uttoxeter
Comments:
‘When I heard I’d won a 5-day trip to Paris I was thrilled. Well, I went on my own but had lots of company with my fellow travellers and thoroughly enjoyed the guided tours, meals etc. Then in April my daughter and I went on the Italian Highlights tour and this is the one I’m writing about. It’s good that travellers have the choice of paying for the guided tours or exploring places on their own, as they wish. Yes, I would recommend [holiday awards] and in fact I have. [Italian Highlights award] turned out to be “fantastico!” Our Italian guide, Alessandro, looked after us very well, and the scenery – the Swiss Alps, Dolomites and the Tuscan countryside were all stunning. And the visits – Pisa, Florence. Rome, Venice and Lake Garda were all that we’d imagined and more. We enjoyed the meals at the hotels and the last hotel, in Austria, was most charming and comfortable. [Worst aspect was] I’d have liked to hear more about the music of Italy and its composers, e.g. Vivaldi, Verdi and Puccini. As we walked back to the pier in Venice I spotted the Calle della Pieta where Vivaldi taught the orphan girls. We took a carriage ride in Pisa, passing by all the university buildings and Galileo’s house! That was the best moment for me. Second best was viewing Florence from the Piazza Michelangelo, and third, our gondola ride in Venice. Very good [service from European Vacations]. I’m enclosing 4 of my digital prints from the holiday.’

E McHale, Rusholme
Comments:
‘[Scratchcards] very good, very thrilled. Yes would recommend to a friend. Driver marvellous, wonderful. Going into Austria views marvellous,’

V Miskiniene from Peterborough
Comments:
‘Alpine Highlights and Turkey holiday awards better than expected. Crossing the Alps [was memorable experience]. Good [service from European Vacations]. Yes I would go again.’

J Kelleway from Bournemouth
Comments:
‘On an average Turkey, Italian Highlights and Spanish Cruise awards were very good. Hotel accommodation good. Had a wonderful trip to Turkey in 2009. Only 14 people and excellent guide.’

S Cocksedge from Hailsham
Comments:
‘[Before playing] not very interested in scratchcards. [Turkey award] better [than expected]. Going to Pamukkale [was memorable experience]. Rain on one of the day trips [was worst aspect]. My wife and I have now been several times and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.’

B Kirk from Wallington
Comments:
‘Ambivalent [before playing the scratchcard]. I wondered about sincerity of this and if they were actually true. What was ‘the catch’? The [Austrian and Switzerland award] was good. It was better than expected. [Memorable experience was] accommodation and hospitality in Switzerland; the sights (beautiful) we were taken to (both countries); the fact that ‘all’ was ‘prepared’ and ‘done’ for us. We could sit back and relax. Good [service from European Vacations]. My husband and I were very grateful to receive your holiday and enjoyed it.’

T Norris from St Ives
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard felt] very negative. There is never something for nothing! [Italian Highlights award] better than expected. There were many [memorable experiences], but going to a tea dance and drinking spa water in Tuscany stands out. Excellent [service from European Vacations]. The hotels were spotless. The drivers and guide fantastic.’

M Walton from West Wickham
Comments:
‘We were very sceptical of the award and did not think the holiday would actually happen. [Having claimed an award I felt] relief! It turned out to be a really enjoyable holiday. Switzerland and Austria award was probably better [than expected]. Looking out of our bedroom window at the beautiful Lake Lucerne [was memorable experience]. Very good [service from European Vacations]. The drivers in particular were excellent and the couriers friendly and helpful. We saw some stunning scenery and visited some very interesting places.’

Name not supplied
Comments:
‘[Purely Creative scratchcards are] quite a good idea. Interesting. I might recommend them. [Holiday award] probably the same [as expected]. The scenery [was memorable experience]. Good [service].’

M Osborne from Glasgow
Comments:
‘The Alpine Highlights holiday was most enjoyable – we saw so much, the company was great as were the hotels. [Memorable experience was] climbing up over the Alps in the coach – which was driven expertly!! Service [from European Vacations] was good. Yes [would do it again] – I am really interested in the cruise to Spain. I have praised the wonderful holiday which was most enjoyable.’

C Shambrook from Camberley
Comments:
‘Slightly sceptical [before playing the scratchcard]. Not sure of the reason behind the promotion. The European holidays were very enjoyable. Once the journey got going I enjoyed the trips. Hotels were good and also the company was very good. Everyone [at European Vacations] did their best.’

W Aitken from Edinburgh
Comments:
‘I was not sure about [the promotions before taking part]. Some said must be rip off. Anyway tried a few that came my way and was delighted at some of the response. Both myself and wife enjoyed France, Germany & Austria awards. We travelled through some lovely countries and did lots on the way. Most definitely would [do it again]. Overall we have great memories from our holiday, met some really nice people and we have kept in contact with some we met. I can’t honestly remember why we played the game but glad we did. I think if ever had chance again would have another go. Yes, very good experience.’

M Lund from Whitstable
Comments:
‘They are good promotions, I would recommend them. The travel and accommodation were pretty much as expected. The countries we visited (Austria and Switzerland) were better than expected. [Memorable experience was] the trip up the mountains (Mount Pilatus) and the scenery throughout the Alps. Our guide was very good.’

Name not supplied
Comments:
‘Playing the scratchcards is] worth it for a holiday! Italian Highlights award better [than expected]. Haggling with street peddlers in Pisa was memorable experience. [Worst aspect was] getting deposit back in sterling as opposed to euros]. Good service.’

H Knichal from Worcester Park
Comments:
‘Italian Highlights award 2 times and Switzerland award 1 time [were] better [than expected]. Solidarity of fellow travellers [memorable experience]. Service varied from guide to guide, but generally very good. Why not [do it again]?’

L Flannery from Perth
Comments:
‘Only concerned if [the promotion] was of interest to me. [Holiday awards] certainly valuable as a change to normal vacation. [Paris and Austria and Switzerland awards] much better than expected. [Memorable experiences were] sight-seeing in Paris, Swiss Alps – up close! Satisfactory [service from European Vacations].’

J O’Donoghue from Norwich
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcards] I thought they were a waste of time and that no-one ever won. I loved the Venice award. Our tour guide was helpful and funny.’

M Bensilum from Maidstone
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard was] very wary. Italian Highlights award better [than expected]. The hotel we stopped in either 3rd or 4th stop [was worst aspect], the rest was great and made some lovely friends. The drivers were first class. Good [service from European Vacations]. Yes [would do it again]..’

K Plackett from Milton Keynes
Comments:
‘Not fussed [about scratchcards before taking part]. Being driven everywhere [on Italian Highlights holiday] and enjoying the views [was memorable experience]. Good [service from European Vacations]. Yes probably [would do it again].’

M Gallagher from Blackburn
Comments:
‘Indifferent [to scratchcards before taking part]. Yes I would recommend them to a friend - better than I expected. [Memorable experience was] meeting extremely pleasant and warm people. I travelled alone. Tour guide Alessandro was exceptional at his job. Good [service from European Vacations]. Overall the Italian Highlights tour was an excellent way to see the sights of Italy in such a short space of time.’

P Robson from Chester
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcards] I didn’t think they were genuine. [Purely Creative scratchcards are] fantastic, so would recommend to a friend. Turkey award better [than expected]. Visiting Pamukkale and seeing snow on the beach at Antalya [were memorable experiences]. Both our guide and coach driver said this was unknown in living memory. [Worst aspect was] early morning wake-up calls! Necessary in order to fit everything into the itinerary, so not complaining. Excellent [service from European Vacations]. Telephone staff friendly, helpful and knowledgeable, and our guide in Turkey was superb. Organisation from start to finish was fantastic. Turkey was a country that I’d always wanted to visit, but never dreamt I’d get the opportunity. Our guide and driver were very friendly and helpful, the coach comfortable, the standard of the hotels was great, and with good food, and we were made to feel so welcome. It was incredible how much sight-seeing had been packed into just one week all adding up to a wonderful holiday. Thank you!! Would have loved to send you photos, but my camera ‘died’ on me on the first day, so not a happy bunny. Definitely [would do it again].’

J Allmond from Horsham
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard felt] dubious. Spanish Cruise award better [than expected]. The church museum [was memorable experience]. Excellent [service from European Vacations]. Yes [would do it again].’

J Spires from Peterborough
Comments:
‘[Italian Highlights award] better [than expected. Lake Garda [was memorable experience]. Very good [service from European Vacations]. Yes [would do it again].’

R Archer from Leconfield
Comments:
‘Didn’t like competitions [before playing the scratchcard], uneasy. [Alpine Highlights award] better than expected. All the wonderful sights we saw - and the extremely nice and clever courier we had on our tours. Excellent [service from European Vacations]. Yes certainly [would do it again].’

C Fry from Pett Level
Comments:
‘Sceptical [before playing the scratchcard]. I gave it a go, I would recommend to friends. So far so good. [Turkey and Spanish Cruise awards] same as expected. Friendly and helpful guide, good selected tours. Good [service from European Vacations]. I would [do it again] if time is permissible.’

W Kuczer from Rochdale.
Comments:
‘[Italian Highlights award] same as expected. [Holiday awards] alright as they are. [Memorable experience was] seeing Austria, Switzerland, especially liked Rome. Satisfactory [service from European Vacations]. Yes [would do it again].’

H Day from St Nicholas at Wade
Comments:
‘[Promotions] OK. Yes [would recommend to a friend]. No bad memories. [Turkey award] same as expected. Excursion to Hierapolis [was memorable experience].’

A Chatfield from Canterbury
Comments:
‘Sceptical [before playing the scratchcards]. Easy! The holiday awards are OK, we have recommended a friend in the past. Going thorough the mountains [was memorable experience] and the Glacier Express.’

B Sidhu from Middlesex
Destination:
Malaga
Comments:
‘It was a top resort. Staff were helpful and friendly. [The best part was] the area we were staying and the holiday reps. I could do with another one of Whoopydoo’s holidays’

P Webb from Fareham
Comments:
‘All my trips I’ve taken with a friend have been very enjoyable. I went to Turkey last year and I’m going again in April so I think that speaks for itself. [Memorable experience] on all trips is being looked after and seeing the world. The holidays are always well managed and I like meeting all kinds of people. Some I’m still in contact with. Photos enclosed of me and other guest. Very good. Keep up the good work.’

P Smith from Isle-of-Wight
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] thought there must be a catch or that it was yet another ‘scam’. I thought that by the time I had applied by post all the better prizes would be gone. ‘Spain Cruise award better [than expected] by far! [Memorable experience was] finding out that our hotel was much better quality than we had expected and that we were to receive full board instead of B&B. Very good [service from European Vacations]. Coach journey very comfortable with plenty of stops for refreshment etc. Definitely [would do it again]! Can’t think of any ways it could have been improved.’

P Foster from Gateshead
Comments:
‘We really enjoyed our holiday in France (Battlefields & Chateaux of the Loire and Paris). We liked the variety of places and would have liked to stay longer in some of them. Each place was good in its own way – the Normandy beaches, the glorious chateaux and seeing the Eiffel Tower sparkle with lights at night. Excellent drivers and guides. Very definitely [would do it again].’

H Trybuchowski from Altrincham
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] I thought it was a waste of time. [Experience was] unusual. Italian Highlights award better [than expected] – since we did the sights ourselves, and had slightly more time. We had been to Italy a few times before, and knew all the sights and did not have to go on guided tours. I was well prepared with maps, books etc. The drivers were very good. The tour guide was very good. The accommodation was good.’

E Norris from Cheltenham
Comments:
‘[Turkey award was] same as expected. [Memorable experiences were] scenery, people, making new friends. Everything was fine. The food was OK but we couldn’t wait to get home for our English cup of tea. Very good [service from European Vacations].’

J Boote from Constantine
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] I had a cautious opinion of them. [Participation experience] rather more satisfying. I would advise a friend that a holiday prize could be a lot more fun than might be generally anticipated. [Italian Highlights award was] better than expected. We had never visited Rome, although we have travelled extensively in Italy, and were pleased with the itinerary. We usually went independently but in Rome we valued the tour on offer. [Worst aspect was] graffiti in Rome! [Memorable experience was] the impact of St Peters and also St Pauls in Rome. My wife and I had low expectations of the Italy holiday award and wondered about our fellow travellers. We were pleasantly surprised by our companions, the itinerary, standard of hotels and particularly our Italian guide. We have travelled extensively for many years and have few illusions about hotels out of season and the food to be expected, but the accommodation was beyond expectations and the food was perfectly adequate. In short, a good break. Very good [service from European Vacations]. Very impressed by the Italian guide. The driver was safe, sensible and helpful at all times. The vacation came shortly before a coach tour (with another company) of the Pilgrim’s Way staying at Parador. That trip was in many ways very similar but spectacularly expensive by comparison and frankly not significantly better.’

G Fisher from Callington
Comments:
‘We were very happy with the [Italian Highlights award] destination. [Memorable experience was] the scenery. Very good [service from European Vacations] we found them helpful. My husband and I enjoyed your holiday very much. I have recommended your holidays to friends.’ ’

C Taylor from Cumbria
Destination:
Turkey
Comments:
‘[The hotel was] excellent you can get anything you need. Everything we needed was there. Very good, excellent back up from the bar people. Always ready to oblige reception and management excellent. The happiness of the hotel people and always ready to help out any ways they could. The greeting and departure was quite something.’

M Stark from Kirkaldy
Comments:
‘I have forgotten when I actually started to ‘play’ [Purely Creative scratchcards] but pleased we took up the offer eventually. I was off work due to illness and took a chance on winning something. Apprehensive… and then delighted when I received one. [Participating in the promotion] was a personal decision and I believe everyone should make their own choice. Because of illness I was unable to take my first offer but in time my husband and I accepted. It all fell into place and communication on the phone with staff was pleasant. The [Italian Highlights award] was wonderful. [Memorable experiences were] the scenery and the ‘tasting’ of each country we visited. We had promised ourselves a return visit to Venice and it ticked all the boxes. Our first visits to Rome and Florence were amazing. It gave us an opportunity we might not otherwise have taken.’

C Gardner from Chichester
Comments:
‘[Turkey award] rather better [than expected]. The visit to Pamukkale and the hot spring pools at the excellent hotel there [were memorable experiences]. Our chief guide, Jilmaz, was really excellent.’

D Walton from Buxton
Comments:
‘[Playing the scratchard] was good as the award was a good one to look forward to. It is a matter of personal judgement, some people like to participate, other don’t. [Turkey award] about the same [as expected]. Seeing the calcium terraces at Pamukkale [was a memorable experience]. The service [from European Vacations] was very good as the tour rep kept us informed the whole time. Yes [would do it again], this was my 2nd time on this holiday.’

G Alueida from Nottingham
Comments:
‘Sceptical [before playing the scratchcard]. Interesting experience. Receiving an actual award was a surprise, I would recommend [Purely Creative scratchcards] to a friend. Venice, Alpine Highlights and Turkey better [than expected]. In Venice [memorable experience was] St Marks Square and surrounding streets/canals. Alpine H – seeing the Alps again, closer up than on the Venice trip. Turkey – St Nicholas Church. Excellent [service from European Vacations].’

C Cunnliffe from Sutton
Comments:
‘[Scratchcards are] fine. [Participation experience] good. Yes would recommend. Italy award… better [than expected. [Memorable experience was] different places we visited. Good, would do it again yes.’

P Smith from London
Comments:
‘[Italian Highlights award] better than I had expected. In fact excellent. [Memorable experiences were] 1st all the guides and guided tours, our coach companions, felt as if we had known the others for years, the hotels, all excellent. Excellent [service from European Vacations]. It was a packed programmed. For me it was excellent.’

J Kavanagh from Caversham
Comments:
‘Before playing the scratchcard had] very mixed [feelings]. I felt they were unlikely to be “fair” and “honest” and that I was most unlikely to have a worthwhile experience. I decided to try, anyway. I have recommended [Purely Creative scratchcards to] friends. And would again. (I actually made new friends on a couple of the trips). [Holiday awards] better [than expected – each one was better than the previous one, I suppose because I had more confidence. But well done Euro Vacs – they did listen. I enjoyed it. [Memorable experience was] Pamukkale in Turkey – the hotel, food, sights and fellow travellers were just great. The views and entertainment were breathtaking. The guide was so knowledgeable and friendly and helpful. I feel that both Purely Creative and Euro Vacs try quite hard. Keep it up.’

D McKenzie from London
Comments:
‘The whole idea [of Purely Creative scratchcards] is a very good one. Of course a lot of Italian Highlights excellent. Good [service from European Vacations]. Austria beautiful.’

L Halls from West Sussex
Destination:
Malaga
Comments:
‘We stayed in Malaga, Costa del sol, within walking distance of the beach, Seafront local supermarkets. Shops and cinema 100 yards from our hotel and bus stop right outside the hotel. The hotel [had] very adequate rooms were big and spacious and very clean. The pools and kids games were very good as was the entertainment every night it was fantastic. [The best part was] the stay in the hotel, the staff were very friendly and helpful, as were Thomson reps. The night time entertainment was great bingo, quizzes and different cabaret acts kept everyone happy. We have been on a couple of Whoopydoo holidays - good accommodation in lovely hotels.’

C Clark from Southampton
Comments:
‘Sceptical [before playing the scratchcard]. Yes [would recommend to a friend], professional. Italy the same as expected. [Memorable experience was] Venice. Good [service from European Vacations].’

O Titova from Stoke-on-Trent
Comments:
‘I was excited. We recommended your service to our friends, but they didn’t claim the award. [Italian Highlights award] same as I expected. Vipiteno town in Alpine [was memorable experience]. Satisfying.’

D Thomson from Sleaford
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] I thought I would hear nothing and it was a waste of time. [After claiming the award] it does prove that somebody does win. We really did enjoy the holiday. We thought everything would be cheap and basic but we were pleasantly surprised. The Swiss Alps [was memorable experience]. [European Vacations] very helpful.’

S Gunn from Aldershot
Comments:
‘A good promotion and I would recommend them to a friend. [Switzerland and Austria award] better than expected. A very informative and enjoyable tour guide. The coach trip from Switzerland to Austria [was memorable experience] and stopping at the top of one of the Alps to see the sun rise climbing over the mountains. [European Vacations] pleasant, helpful and good. A good holiday and one we would repeat if of a similar style and we would recommend to a friend or relative.’

B Bereznyckyz from Peterborough
Comments:
‘I had a scratchcard and won the holiday, Switzerland, Austria and Italy, which I enjoyed. It was only a scratchcard and I was extremely happy to win this prize. Yes [would recommend Purely Creative scratchcards to a friend] because it is very worthwhile. [Memorable experiences were] Lake Garda and scenery throughout. Rome itself was a disappointment in not seeing the Pope (ha ha). I tried, but was asked to leave. I think I have written enough but I do enjoy your holidays and I would definitely go on them again.’

J Romeo from Blackpool
Comments:
‘[The promotion] was fun and good prizes. It was wonderful to have won an award. I would recommend [Purely Creative scratchcards] to a friend as it was an excellent experience and picturesque scenery. My [Turkey] holiday was fantastic and better than I expected. [Worst aspect was] trying to find the room at the hotel, and I asked at Reception and they gave me another room. The most memorable moment was going through the Taurus mountains, as it was beautiful. The service from European Vacations was excellent, helpful and very good. Yes I would [do it again] as I liked the holiday and it was really beautiful and interesting. It was the best holiday and a wonderful experience. Thank you!’

C Hassell from West Lothian
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] I did not think they were worth the bother. Holidays were worth it. Did not always manage to go but the ones I did we were over the moon. I think it is up to each individual but yes, I have told friends about my prizes and how great the holidays were. The 7 day holiday in Italy was the holiday of a lifetime. The weather in November was better than summer here. Sights and tours were just great. The level of service [from European Vacations] was just great.’

T Fox from Ashford
Destination:
Algarve
Comments:
‘The hotel was very good.’

E Rettie from Inverness
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] didn’t really think people won – sounded too good to be true! [Participating was] easy and quite exciting. Have already recommended [Purely Creative scratchcards]. The Alpine Highlights holiday turned out much better than we expected – were a bit sceptical of “free” holiday but we were very pleasantly surprised. [Worst aspects were] none really – long time on the bus but this was unavoidable and we had plenty of comfort stops. [Memorable experiences were] hotel, scenery, everything – lovely! Very good [service from European Vacations]. Yes would love to [do it again].’

M Mohammed from Leeds
Comments:
‘I had no previous opinion of promotional competitions and I treated this promotion on its merits. [Participation experience] fine, I had no problems. Yes, I would recommend [Purely Creative scratchcards] to a friend, great value. The [Alpine Highlights award] turned out to be better than expected. [Worst aspect was] there was so much to do and see and so little time to do it. [Memorable experience was] the spectacular scenery. Very high [level of service from European Vacations]. Yes [would do it again]. The Alpine holiday was full of spectacular scenery, the coach was comfortable and well driven along sometimes difficult roads, and the guides were very informative.’

H Fryer from Brookmans Park
Comments:
‘Unconvinced, sceptical [before playing the scratchcard]. Astonishing [experience] and yes – I would recommend [promotions with holiday awards] to a friend (and I’ve done so). The [Italian Highlights award] was enjoyable and turned out better than expected. Our stay in Venice [was memorable experience]. Yes [would do it again].’

E Wilde from Northwich
Comments:
‘I do recommend [Purely Creative scratchcards] to my friends. [Holiday awards] better than expected in some ways. Been on at least 6 now, The Swiss mountains were brilliant. [Memorable experience was] Normandy beaches. Normally very good [service from European Vacations]. I have enjoyed the holidays. Turkey was probably the best.’

J Drinkwater from Manchester
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard felt] ambivalent bordering on negative. The award was worth it! The experience was positive. [Austrian & Switzerland award] better than expected, it was up to the individual to extract a worthwhile experience. [Memorable experiences were] the views and places of interest we were taken to. Also optional trips good. Very high [levels of service from European Vacations] on coach. The rep/courier was a real personality and made it so interesting.’

R Ward from Mansfield
Comments:
‘I was not interested in taking part [in scratchcards] at all, but it was quite easy, everything went according to plan. The claim was handled brilliantly, and I certainly would, and have, recommended them to friends. [Austria and Switzerland award] just about the same as expected. [Memorable experience was] how clean and tidy Austria is. Excellent [service from European Vacations] we were looked after superbly. We were made very welcome by the European Vacations staff and the holiday was excellent.’

K Metcalf from Skipton
Comments:
‘Much better [Italian Highlights award] than expected, it was a lovely holiday. Venice and Rome [were memorable experiences]. Very good [service from European Vacations], our driver and guide Alessandro were fantastic. YES [would do it again]! The trip was very nice, right up to the last day we were unsure of taking this trip, as we felt too young for a coach trip! But we met some very nice people, the service on the coach and in the hotels was very good. Alessandro was the best and gave out every bit of information we could need.’

J Gordon from South Ockendon
Comments:
‘[Before taking part] I wasn’t sure but we enjoyed the promotion very much. We loved [the participation experience] and enjoyed it. Yes I would [recommend Purely Creative scratchcards to a friend]. We had a wonderful time. Seeing the sights [was memorable experience], wonderful. Excellent [service from European Vacations]. Yes [would do it again]. We enjoyed the Italian Highlights, we had a wonderful week and thank you very much.’

Michael from Essex
Destination:
Prague
Comments:
‘Prague very good. Hotel was good and staff helpful. [The best part was] the sightseeing around town and the excursions. [Overall it was] excellent.’

F Wingfield from Sheffield
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard felt] it was just another competition to do – not expecting to win. Very pleased [with participation experience] but rather dubious about taking the holiday. [Having claimed an award] I certainly would recommend [Purely Creative scratchcards] to a friend. Italian Highlights award was than expected. [Worst aspect was] going to see Pisa at night as I couldn’t take photographs. Seeing Florence and Venice was a dream come true. Very good [service], we had nice bedrooms. Just to say thank you for a great experience.’

E Cormack from Kirkliston
Comments:
‘Before playing the scratchcards was] not very sure about them. [Participating was] quite exciting. Yes would recommend, I thought it was very good. Switzerland and Austria holiday turned out to be better [than expected]. The time in Switzerland [was memorable experience]. Very good [service from European Vacations], the travel arrangements were good and the bus driver helpful. Yes [would do it again]. My friend and I enjoyed it and the others on the tour were very friendly.’

S Pitches from Shipbourne
Comments:
‘I am quite happy to take part [in Purely Creative scratchcards]. Yes – definitely [would recommend to a friend]. Some hotels [in Turkey] really 5*. [Memorable experience was] Pamukkale – thermal baths. Excellent [service from European Vacations] – tour guide was brilliant. Most definitely [would do it again]. Am very pleased with it all.’

G Gillman from Knutsford
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard I] always thought there was a “catch”! A friend said she had played some of the games and won a holiday so why didn’t I do the same! [Having claimed an award I think Purely Creative scratchcards are] very easy and enjoyable – I would certainly recommend to a friend. [Italian Highlights award] turned out much, much better [than expected]. Venice – all that I imagined and more! Excellent [service from European Vacations]. Yes [would do it again]. Bring on some more!’

L Pallut from Trinity
Comments:
‘Very cautious [before playing the scratchcard]. Simple [participation experience] and easy to follow. [Promotions are] very good, would recommend to a friend. [Italian Highlights award] better [than expected]. Good coach drivers and lovely scenery, all very good. Extra good [service from European Vacations]. Always very good.’

Name not provided
Comments:
‘[Playing the scratchcard was] good. Yes [would recommend promotions to a friend] and have. [Turkey award] was very good. Great for touring around. [Memorable experience was] the Turkish baths – great.’

E Phelan from Bristol
Comments:
‘Switzerland and Austria award was better [than expected]. The train trip to the Glaciers [was memorable experience] and the village we stayed in when we stopped in Austria. Very good [service from European Vacations].’

E Jones, Carmarthen
Comments:
‘[Spanish Cruise award] was as I expected, very enjoyable. [Memorable experience was] seeing a part of Spain which I had never been to before – and the company. Yes [would do it again].’

G Davies from Merthyr Tydfil
Comments:
‘[Promotions] OK. [Participation experience] OK. Yes [would recommend to a friend]. Italian Highlights better [than expected]. Having visited the cities previously the two amazing sights were 1) the Waldorf Hotel in Switzerland and spectacular scenery 2) the Admiral Hotel and the village – super. Excellent [service from European Vacations] and guide Martin super (he was from Innsbruck). An ambitious undertaking but excellent.’

J Hopwood from Tenby
Comments:
‘Good [participation experience]. Very good. Yes I would recommend [Purely Creative scratchcards] to a friend. Turkey award was better than I thought it would be. Arriving at the hotel in Pamukkale [was memorable experience]. Very good [service from European Vacations]. Yes [would do it again].’

C Thomas from Gateley
Comments:
‘[Promotion] OK. [Participation experience] OK, had no expectations. Good [service from European Vacations on Italian Highlights tour]. Waiting for my Turkey holiday.’

V Amaning from London
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] I was wary about them because there are so many scams. [Participating] was extremely rewarding because I won a holiday! [Italian Highlights award] exceeded expectations and was better in places than I thought it would be. [Memorable experience was] getting lost in Florence! [Service from European Vacations] was very good. Helpful staff, clear guidelines and available contact centre. Definitely [would do it again], it’s a good way to see a lot of one country and decide whether you’d like to go back. Like a taster.’

J Hodgins from Hebden Bridge
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard was] wary that it would cost to retrieve any prizes. [Participation experience] OK, glad that I could do it for the cost of a few postage stamps. Yes [would recommend the promotions to a friend] – Purely Creative only. [Italian Highlights and Turkey awards] great – as expected. I did not buy the food packages, ate out. [Memorable experience was] sharing wonderful sights with new friends.’

L Evans from Swansea
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard felt] competitions were not quite my thing. [Participation experience] excellent. Yes [would recommend to a friend]. Much better [Alpine Highlights award] than expected. [Worst aspects were] none. [Memorable experience was] boat ride on the lake and trip to Mount Pilatus. Excellent [service from European Vacations]. Absolutely [would do it again]. My wife and I would be delighted to be offered another holiday if at all possible. Enjoyed the whole experience. Tour escorts were tremendous, their knowledge and information and friendliness were superb. We went to places that previously were only dreamt of. What an experience!’

V Penfold from West Moseley
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard felt it was] too good to be true. Probably a hidden catch that would make it impossible to accept. [Having claimed an award was] pleasantly surprised. Excited. [Promotions are] very good. Would definitely recommend. The Italian Highlights and Turkey holiday awards were better [than expected]. Hilltop towns in Tuscany, Switzerland [were memorable experiences]. All the hotels were good. Excellent [service from European Vacations]. Yes [would do it again].’

R Woodley from Bristol
Comments:
‘[Purely Creative scratchcards are] fun. Very good value. Yes, I would recommend to a friend. All the holiday awards were better than expected. The Roman City and the Warm Springs [were memorable experiences]. Excellent. Well organised. Yes [would do it again]. Looking forward to the next one!’

A Lucas from St Saviour
Comments:
‘I think [Purely Creative scratchcards are] a great idea and I would recommend them to a friend. The [Spanish Cruise award] was better than I expected. [Memorable experience was] the coach getting stuck coming off the ferry at Bilbao. I must add that it wasn’t the driver’s fault. I found the service was very good. I most certainly would [do it again]. I have been on several tours with you and I enjoyed each of them. Keep it up.’

E McNeill from Tarbert
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard was] mildly interested. [Promotions are] quite good. Would recommend to a friend. [Italian Highlights award] better than expected. All very memorable as it was and a new experience. Very good.’

P Jacob from Glasgow
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] I was not sure, then I did some research and when I knew it was for real and above board I then went for it. [Participation experience] went very well, just did what was asked and read all the fine print – it was all in the right place. Yes, I will definitely recommend [Purely Creative scratchcards] to a friend. My [Turkey holiday award] went very well, just as I had expected. [Worst aspect was] the hotels did not have a kettle or iron. The most memorable moment was when I had a Turkish bath and massage. The service was well thought of and well applied. Yes I would [do it again]. Thank you for a great holiday in Turkey. I met great friends.’

J Cooper from Beckenham
Comments:
‘I had never taken part in promotions before. I didn’t expect to hear any more and was pleasantly surprised when I received an award. I certainly would [recommend Purely Creative scratchcards to a friend], I hope you have more. The holiday to Turkey was more than I expected. My husband and I enjoyed it immensely. Wonderful hotels, wonderful trips. [Worst aspect was] arriving back at Gatwick. [Memorable experiences were] Hierapolis, climbing to the amphitheatre, Aspendos and the theatre there. We are both history lovers. Excellent service [from European Vacations], no problems. I have been on Italian Highlights and I certainly would go on a similar holiday. But not a cruise, I don’t like sailing. My holiday award was unbelievable, marvellous. Our driver and our tour guide were so helpful. The guide knew his history of Turkey well. They looked after us all. The folk on the tour with us were great and we made many new friends. I would recommend to anyone.’

E Horton from Wakefield
Comments:
‘I did not take much notice of [Purely Creative scratchcards] before but glad that I did. Lovely. [Participation experience] just wonderful. I certainly would [recommend], they were great. [Italian Highlights award] was one of the best holidays I had ever been on. [Worst aspect was] having to come home. Absolutely great, and Venice was wonderful. [Service from European Vacations was] just great. I certainly would [do it again]. I was wary at first but it could not have been better. I saw places I would not have seen otherwise. I am waiting for my next one which is Turkey.’

K Catterall from Preston
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] I felt they were a rip off. But [Italian Highlights award] was very, very good. [Worst aspect was] when my friend got lost in Florence, but it turned out OK in the end. [Memorable experience was] Venice. Very good [service from European Vacations].’

J Perfect from Worcester
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] I didn’t have any previous experience. I was delighted to be awarded a holiday. My friend and I really enjoyed it. I couldn’t believe how lucky I was. I would recommend [Purely Creative scratchcards] to friends. [Italian Highlights award] was just great. I didn’t have any preconceived idea of what I expected. I just wanted to make the most of everything. The scenery was breathtaking. Very good [service from European Vacations]. Most definitely [would do it again]. Lake Garda is magical.’

K Clayton from Folkestone
Comments:
‘Very uncertain [before playing the scratchcard]. Good experience. Yes [would recommend to a friend]. Better [Alpine Highlights award] than expected. [Memorable experience was] getting a chance to see places.’

K Jones from Newtown
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] somehow you feel that nothing is to be gained from completing the task set to hand. [After claiming an award] just a fantastic feeling to have gained something at the end. Certainly [would recommend Purely Creative scratchcards to a friend] – if there is nothing ever ventured then there will never be anything gained. [Italian Highlights award] better [than expected] – the whole experience was super. Meeting other people and seeing so many wonderful places. [Memorable experience was] Austria – fantastic hotel, fantastic food and fantastic views. Excellent [service from European Vacations] – the coach driver always very polite and our tour guide was very informative of the areas we visited. Yes I would [do it again]. Just a real pleasure to have experienced the places we visited, boat trips, scenery etc. were just fantastic.’

V Mulreid from Bristol
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard I felt] it might be just a con to get money from the public. When I did win award for holiday I took it up and it was a lovely surprise. Would recommend [Purely Creative scratchcards] to anyone. [Italian Highlights award] turned out to be better than we ever thought, and so relaxed. [Memorable experience was] all of it and how relaxed we felt when we came back. Could not fault any part of our holiday. Brilliant [service from European Vacations], no complaints. Yes [would do it again], in the process of claiming same holiday as went on last time as we enjoyed it so much. All I can say is that I would do it again and again and would recommend to anyone.’

J Ward from Headcorn
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] I thought it was a gimmick. Very exciting because I wasn’t sure until the last minute it was actually going to happen! First time I ever used a scratchcard! Yes [would recommend to a friend]. The [Venice award] was better than expected. We had an amazing gondola tour that included a seafood lunch. Marvellous!’

G Vaughan from Farnham Common
Comments:
‘Not keen [before playing the scratchcards]. Great [participation experience]. Already have recommended [Purely Creative scratchcards] to several friends. [Italian Highlights and Turkey holiday awards] better [than expected]. The snow on the mountains on the way to Italy [was memorable experience] and the stay in Cianciano in Italy – the scenery first thing in the morning is magnificent. Bus drivers and tour guides and most of the hotels were excellent. Yes – would love to do Italian Highlights again. From start to finish I have had excellent service.’

D Davies from Southampton
Comments:
‘Age and experience leave me with a healthy scepticism, i.e.’ there’s no such thing as a free lunch’ – however, I accept the fact that certain promotional campaigns genuinely offer the punter tremendous value, and in recent years my scorn has diminished – I’ve benefited from offers otherwise I couldn’t afford. And if the promotional product is not a ‘remarketing’ venture, I’m open-minded – yes it can be fun engaging too. [The Italian Highlights award was] without doubt the best! [The worst aspect was] missing my bus connection – entirely my fault, caught it up a day later! [Memorable experience was] the travel across Europe visiting six countries – the company, accommodation, food, Venice, Rome, Pisa, Florence – the sights, wonderful. I couldn’t have arranged such an itinerary. [The service from European Vacations was] excellent. Yes [would do it again] of course.’

K Durrant from Peacehaven
Destination:
Pontins Brean Sands
Comments:
‘Pontins Brean Sands is a well laid out resort with a reasonable number of facilities on site. The hotel accommodation is well furnished and clean. [The best part was] getting away from everything for a few days. A relaxing time.’

M Broadhead from Peterlee
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard felt] apprehensive. [Participating was] good. Yes [would recommend promotions to a friend]. [Turkey holiday award] as expected. [The worst aspect was the] weather. [Memorable experience was] the quality of the hotels, scenery and views. [Service from European Vacations] very good. Yes [would do it again]. No [improvements needed]. We have been on three holidays with European Vacations and have been very satisfied with them all.’

E Kelbie from Darlington
Comments:
‘[Participating was] all right. Yes [would recommend promotions to a friend]. [Italian Highlights award] better than expected. [Service from European Vacations] very good. Yes [would do it again]. No [improvements needed]. Seeing the Switzerland and Austria mountains what I thought I would never see out of the hotel windows was only what I thought was on a postcard. It was a dream come true and the streets so clean. Hotels nice, not too far away from trains or buses.’

M Walker from Scarborough
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] wondered if there was a catch. I would certainly recommend… and I have already done so. [Italian Highlights award] much better than expected. [Worst aspects were] a cold day in Venice. Rained all day in Rome! [Memorable experience was] short stay in Austria, lovely meal and warm hotel on the way back. Excellent food! [Service from European Vacations was] excellent. The courier was good and did his best for us. We were lucky and rode in a new style bus.’

R Moss from London
Comments:
‘Sceptical [before playing the scratchcard]. Wow, so they really do work!! Absolutely [would recommend promotions to a friend]. I have 12,000 photos of my various European Vacations holidays! [The holidays in Disneyland Paris, Barcelona, Switzerland (twice), Italy and Turkey were better than expected] – that and more. Fantastic. Can’t think of any [worst aspects]. [Memorable experience was] reaching a destination I thought I would only dream (or read) about. [Service from European Vacations was] par excellance. Yes [would do it again]. The guides made such a difference. Interesting and fun. Keep up the good work.’

D Morgan from Hampton Crescent West
Comments:
‘[Italian Highlights award] better than expected. Yes [would do it again]. Not really [any improvements needed].’

B Griffin from Dagenham
Comments:
‘Thought it was possibly a con [before playing the scratchcard] and was very pleasantly surprised to find that it wasn’t and that I had won a holiday. [Taking part and claiming the Italian Highlights award was] easy on both accounts. It was a very enjoyable holiday and my friend and myself would highly recommend it to other people. It was a lot better than we expected. There wasn’t anything bad about the whole trip. I think the times we spent in Florence and Pisa were great. Excellent [service from European Vacations]. Definitely [would do it again]. The whole trip was great. The tour guide was very helpful and very knowledgeable about all the countries we visited. The hotels and staff were marvellous, especially as I do not eat pasta. They made no complaints about giving me something different to eat. Well done.’

G Thomas from Cornwall
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] thought it was waste of time – gimmicky. [Participation experience was] good fun. Very prompt replies. Yes I would certainly recommend. We did the trip to Italy and found we were looked after well and the company, great – organiser brilliant. Can’t think of any [worst aspects of the holiday]. [Memorable experience was] when we arrived in Switzerland!! Absolutely fantastic and so clean accommodation and countryside. Excellent service [from European Vacations] – regarded as human beings – not just a number. Oh yes [would do it again] if and when opportunity arises. Can’t think of any [improvements to the holiday].’

D Harrison from Derby
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard I] wanted to know if prizes offered were genuine. Excellent [experience]! [Italian Highlights award] better [than expected]. [Memorable experience was] scenery. Good [service from European Vacations]. Yes [would do it again].’

A Lailey from Axbridge
Comments:
‘Not too sure [before playing the scratchcard]. Good [experience], yes [would recommend to a friend]. [Austria and Alpine Highlights award] better [than I expected]. Very good [service from European Vacations]. Yes [would do it again]. Not really [any improvements needed]. Very good and enjoyable.’

G Brunning from Devon
Comments:
‘The [Italian Highlights] holiday was excellent. Lots [of memorable experiences]. We visited some beautiful Italian cities. The guide was splendid, but we were too long on the coach at the start and finish. It was excellent, no [improvements needed].’

C Turner from Bideford
Comments:
‘[Before playing the Purely Creative scratchcard] I viewed all these cards with suspicion. [Participating was] fun. Yes [would recommend promotions to a friend] – at least only from your firm, as I have experienced a positive outcome. Much more interesting and stress free than I anticipated. Visiting Florence and Venice [were memorable experiences]. Excellent [service from European Vacations]. Yes [would do it again]. The whole experience was a complete delight and gave me immense pleasure – I took my daughter with me who also enjoyed the sights of Rome, Tuscany, Florence and the coach journey throughout. Comfortable coach, safe driver and enjoyable group. I hope to repeat this holiday once again.’

M Goodman from Barnstaple
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard], thought it was a confidence trick – but wasn’t. Result was enjoyed. Already have [recommended promotions to a friend]. Better [Italian Highlights award] than expected. [Memorable experience was] the enjoyment of seeing so many places that covered such a wide area. The pleasure of friendly travellers. Very good [service from European Vacations]. The drivers and couriers were friendly and helpful, lovely people. [The holiday could have been improved by] less pasta in the hotels. The more I look back, the more amazed I am at the amount of ground covered and the wonderful sights seen. My friend and I agree that it was a really worthwhile experience and very glad we didn’t miss it. The travel booklets and our photographs give great pleasure – very happy and worthwhile experience.’

S Window from Essex
Comments:
‘I have always enjoyed [Purely Creative scratchcards]. I have recommended to many friends. Holiday [in Switzerland and Austria was] good. Great courier. Good [service from European Vacations].’

M Macklin from Kent
Comments:
‘[Before taking part] I thought perhaps it was another catch to get people’s money out of them, but pleased to say I was wrong. Very enjoyable – yes I would recommend to a friend. [Turkey and Italian Highlights awards] better than I expected. [Memorable experiences were] the places we visited and the friendliness of other travellers and staff and how helpful they were. All very good and cannot fault [the service from European Vacations]. Yes [would do it again]. I enjoyed all the places I visited. Loved Switzerland, Pisa, Rome and many other places.’

M Simmons from Surrey
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard I was] somewhat sceptical. I was waiting for the catch. [Participating was] an experience I will never forget. I sent the scratch card and did not think about it. When I received a letter saying I had the opportunity to go to Italy I thought it was too good to be true. Since Italy I have been to Paris and the Austrian Highlights. We also went to Turkey and took part on all the excursions. I really would like to have the opportunity to travel on other destinations. I have recommended your company to my family. My aunties went to Italy and Turkey following our recommendations. Our holidays [in Italy in 2006, Paris in 2007, Alpine in 2008 and Turkey in 2009 were] amazing. Far better than any other firm and the tour guides and coach drivers were very professional. I loved meeting the new people on our coach. By the end of the week everybody was friends. The experience and historical sights was well worth it. [Memorable experience was] all the new countries and historical sites around Europe that I did not know even existed. They are places you would not think to visit. I really loved Venice, Lake Garda, Paris, Pamukkale and Florence was quite breathtaking. I will remember it all. [Service from European Vacations] fantastic, efficient, friendly, knowledgeable, polite and great sense of humour. Especially on the Alpine Highlights when the French striked so P&O Ferries were cancelled. We ended up on the Eurotunnel, a little delay but was kept informed the whole time. Yes please [would do it again] when? No [improvements needed]. You cover every aspect.’

Mr & Mrs Vealey from Hinckley.
Comments:
‘[Playing the scratchcard was] good. Yes I would recommend to a friend. [Worst aspects were the] Bay of Biscay (rough water). [Memorable experiences were] the shows on the ship and the friends we made. Also, visiting the caves and seeing things I have read so much about. Very good [service from European Vacations]. Yes [would do it again].’

M Alexander from Nuneaton
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] we thought it was a fiddle, not worth entering. It was quite nice to actually receive a holiday. It was a nice surprise and well worth the time taking part in the promotion. [Memorable experience was] the trip on the Lake Garda. The service was very good.’

Y Brown from Windsor
Comments:
‘Have recommended [scratchcards to a friend]. Italian Highlights award was better [than expected]. Venice [was memorable experience]. Very good, just fine!’

A Brown from Reading
Comments:
‘My Turkey holiday was better [than expected]. The hotels were lovely and tour guides very helpful. Very good [service from European Vacations]. Yes [would do it again].’

Mr Green from Ely
Comments:
‘Already have recommended [Purely Creative scratchcards to a friend]. Good [Italian Highlights award]. Lucky with the weather, good interesting destinations. Good [service from European Vacations]. Yes [would do it again].’

G Gaston from Portsmouth
Comments:
‘I enjoy [Purely Creative scratchcards]. I like them and yes I do recommend them. [Turkey award] better [than expected]. Being jammed into a Thomas Cook flight [was worst aspect]. The hot springs at Pamukkale [were memorable experience]. Good [service from European Vacations]. Yes [would do it again].’

P Elliott from Poole
Comments:
‘Very excited [about playing the scratchcard] – created quiet excitement. Very satisfied, yes would recommend it to a friend. [Holiday award was] better than expected. [Memorable experience was] the fantastic places we visited. Drivers and couriers were all excellent. Yes [would do it again]. Keep up the standard.’

B Wagstaff from Norfolk
Comments:
‘Yes [would recommend Purely Creative to a friend]. All the trips [in Turkey] were memorable. Alpine – Glacier Express. Very good. Difficult to improve. The service from the drivers was fine.’

Mr & Mrs Rigby from Spalding
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard felt] a bit iffy. Thought they were a big con. A bit sceptical at first, but quite excited when I realised I had won a holiday. Definitely [would recommend promotions to a friend]. Much better [Alpine Highlights award] than expected. [Memorable experience was] the cog wheel train taking us to the top of Mount Pilatus and the fantastic views when we got to the top. Very good [service from European Vacations] on the whole. Yes [would do it again]. The holiday and excursions were brilliant and the hotels and food were superb.’

B Bothamley from York
Comments:
‘[Promotions] OK. The [Italian Highlights award] was superb. [Memorable experiences were] the Vatican and St Marks Square and the gondolas. I haven’t any complaints at all, the staff had been perfect. A holiday with lots to remember and dwell on made by staff that seemed to care and gave everyone respect.’

R Clarke from Dartford
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard was] not sure about it. [Participation experience was] exciting. Am very often doing scratchcards and have had a couple of nice free gifts. Didn’t know what to expect [from Italian Highlights award] but enjoyed it. Went to lovely places, Rome and Venice beautiful and leaning tower of Pisa. Austria was beautiful and stayed in lovely hotel. Very good [service from European Vacations]. On the whole it was an experience and met some very nice people.’

M Parsons from Taunton
Comments:
‘Sceptical [before playing the scratchcard]. We’ve been to Paris, Austria & Switzerland and Turkey – all have been extremely good. [Memorable experience was] the trip to the top of Mount Pilatus. The hotels in Turkey were first class. Very good [service from European Vacations]. Yes [would do it again] - we are in fact going to Spain in April. We could not complain at all about the holidays. It’s great to take advantage of the food package deals and also the excursions as we saw far more of the places we visited than we would have done otherwise.’

M Goswell from Taunton
Comments:
‘We were sceptical [before playing the scratchcard], and felt slightly uneasy as it seemed too good to be true. [Italian Highlights award] better than expected, although a lot of time on the coach. [Memorable experience was] Florence! Wonderful. All hotels were clean and comfortable and had everything we needed.’

J Crane from Clacton on Sea
Comments:
‘[Promotions are] fine. Exciting. Yes [would recommend Purely Creative scratchcards to a friend] – I have enjoyed all five of them. [Holiday awards] same as expected. [Memorable experience was] spending my birthday on the top of Mount Pilatus with new friends of the coach party. Excellent [service from European Vacations], they really looked after us. Very much so [would do it again]. The best of all was the “Italian Highlights”. The courier was a young man with a beautiful voice, he often sung to us as we drove from place to place. And he knew so much about Italy, it was his birthplace. His name was Georgio. I’ve enclosed three photos of the coach party, I’m the fifth one on the left hand side, my sister is next to me. We always go on holidays together. The other two photos are Venice and Pisa, “such world wonders!’

D Joint from Ashburton
Comments:
‘Sceptical [before playing the scratchcard]. Very pleased [with participation experience] – but still unsure of the outcome. I think you promote [Italian Highlights award] exactly as it is. We were aware that there would be a lot of travel involved so we accepted that. We did choose to pay for the excursions as we wanted to make the most of our time there but needn’t have – speaking with other people on the trip who made their own way into Rome, for example, managed fine and it would have been cheaper. The holiday turned out to be better than expected. All the places visited were memorable and thoroughly enjoyable. As an added extra – the ‘mix’ of people on this trip made it the funniest time on holiday we had ever had. Good [service from European Vacations]. I would recommend [Purely Creative scratchcards] to a friend. Keep them coming please.’

P Bird from Higham Ferrers
Comments:
‘Always in favour [of Purely Creative scratchcards]. Something different, especially feedback to participants in the cards. Definitely recommend to a friend. Have already done so and the friend has taken up the opportunity, though dubious at first. [Italian Highlights award] actually better [than expected]. [Memorable experiences were] visiting new places, meeting new friends, having it all done for you. [European Vacations] very helpful. Very knowledgeable. Yes, definitely [would do it again]. Everything went well. Super holiday. Visited many places, all that were stated on form. Meals super.’

A Copeland from Newry
Comments:
‘I surely would [recommend Purely Creative scratchcards to a friend] as it was a great experience. [Italian Highlights award] a whole lot better [than expected] as we made a lot of friends. It was great winning as I had never won anything before in my life. [Memorable experience was] going to the Vatican and looking round it. Yes I would [do it again] (sure). Everyone was more than helpful it was very good. Everything went according to plan.’

H McCulloch from Crawley
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] I thought it was a rip off. I was uncertain what it was going to be like. Yes I would [recommend Purely Creative scratchcards to a friend]. I thought [Italian Highlights award] was excellent. I really enjoyed seeing the tower of Pisa, Tuscany and Lake Garda. The hotels were great. I thought the standard [of service from European Vacations] was very good. The coach drivers were a good laugh. Our tour guide I think was new and she did a great job. Yes I would [do it again]. Perhaps tell people how everyone enjoyed their holidays and the comments you have received.’

A Carr from Heathfield
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcards] did not know much about them. [Participation experience was] most rewarding – nice surprise to be offered something nice for a change. Think promotion is great. Would definitely recommend to a friend, and do so quite frequently. The last [holiday award], ‘Italian Highlights’, was far better than I expected. Am still talking about it. [Memorable experiences were] visiting Rome and Venice. Spectacular! The weather was great which was a bonus. Excellent [service from European Vacations]. Our guide on coach was very knowledgeable and friendly. Great job. Yes - definitely [would do it again]. Am off to Turkey soon. Flying there so will not be so much coaching. Nice people, great locations. Always recommending you to friends.’

C Cordery from West Wickham
Comments:
‘Concerned that [holiday award] would be something to do with time-share or similar hard sell. Had to persuade my husband to come! [Experience was] lovely – very pleased with the [Italian Highlights award] – and no selling of anything! Certainly yes [would recommend Purely Creative scratchcards to a friend]. Far, far better [than expected]. Loved it all! [Memorable experiences were] being in Venice and the great tour rep! Brilliant [service from European Vacations] – very professional. Definitely [would do it again]. All excellent – great value for the trips.’

E Reid from Belfast
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard felt] very wary. Exciting [experience]. Interesting and would encourage someone to continue entering. [Venice award] better than expected. Fun, well organised, nice people on the trip. Venice – beautiful! Excellent [service from European Vacations], drivers were safe and very experienced. Yes of course [would do it again]. Scratchcard holiday was very memorable – saw a lot of sights. Safety and timing was excellent.’

S Haslam from Chorley
Comments:
‘[Purely Creative scratchcards are] very good. Excellent. Yes [would recommend to a friend]. Italian Highlights - brilliant holiday, fantastic places and hotels, Rome, Venice, Switzerland, Austria, Pisa. Turkey was fantastic, food and hotels exceptional. [Memorable experience was] taxi over to Venice then looking round Venice. Beach in Turkey and trip to Popodepus. Very good [service from European Vacations]. Yes [would do it again]. Both holidays brilliant.’

A Shale from Colchester
Comments:
‘No problems [with promotions], if you’re not in it you can’t win anything. We’re not really phoning people, but were very friendly and helpful. As long as they are honest and friendly I have no problem recommending [Purely Creative scratchcards] to friends. [Italian Highlights award] better than expected. Coach trip going to Austria and Rome and Italy, very nice. Very good [service from European Vacations].’

P Johnson from Shirley
Comments:
‘Was quite sceptical about [the promotions] before [taking part]. Didn’t do many of them before. [Would recommend them to a friend] definitely. [Italian Highlights award] much better [than expected]. The tour guide was brilliant, and the hotels we stayed in. Very good [service from European Vacations]. The [Italian Highlights award] was the only one we have done so far. Hoping that was not just a good one off, and are looking forward to the next one.’

S Wettan from Nottingham
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcards felt] it was all a bit of a joke at first. It all seemed too good to be true (free holidays). I have been on two now, Italy and Turkey. Yes [would recommend Purely Creative scratchcards to a friend]. Everything about the holiday was first class. The tours, the hotels, the people. The organisation was great, we had nothing to think about but enjoying the holiday. [Memorable experiences were] breathtaking views (Turkish Bath). 1st class [service from European Vacations]. Yes [would do it again].’

Mr Prior from Sheerness
Comments:
‘Alpine Highlights award was better than expected. [Memorable experience was] our stop at the top of the Brenner Pass, but it was all enjoyable. Very good [service from European Vacations] very good, as good as those on expensive holidays. Yes definitely [would do it again]. No [improvements necessary]. One comes to see a country which one does. A 3-star hotel is perfectly adequate and the food is typical of the country, which one wants. Being able to join the coach in Dover suited us fine.’

Mrs Young from Kent
Comments:
‘Very quiet and close to the shops. The resort and hotel [were] excellent. No complaints.’

J Hoyle from Dewsbury
Comments:
‘[Purely Creative scratchcards are] good, interesting. Great [participation experience]. Yes definitely would recommend. [Italian Highlights award] absolutely everything I could have wished for from start to finish. It was very good. [Memorable experiences were] the different places. The magic of Florence, the delights of Pisa. Rome was incredible. Excellent [service from European Vacations], good couriers, good drivers. Yes [would do it again], enjoyed it very much. Fantastic. Think it was very good organisation, second to none. The staff at the end of the phone were so good, polite and helpful.’

C Wager, Bournemouth
Comments:
‘I was not too sure what to expect [of Alpine Highlights award]. The holiday turned out to be a lot better than I expected and the hotel was outstanding, really friendly and very good food and service. Most of the holiday was memorable, especially the coach trips, the hotel and the food. I have no complaints about the service. The two drivers, Peter and Paul and Mel, the hostess were very friendly and very helpful. Yes I definitely would [do it again]. I would certainly recommend the holidays.’

G Cooper from Ellon
Comments:
‘Lovely promotions. Good chance to participate in a genuine scheme. Exciting. Have told a friend. Very nice [Italian Highlights award], better than expected. [Worst aspect] early mornings! Though understandable within the time limits. [Memorable experiences were] meeting other people, the change of scenery and discovering the quirky nature of other countries and their peoples. Very good [service from European Vacations], excellent. Yes [would do it again], very much so! I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all involved.’

A Nicol from Glasgow
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] always thought there must be a catch somewhere. With some there was, cost seemed to double, but not with yours. Quite excited and happy. Yes [would recommend Purely Creative scratchcards to a friend], very good. [Alpine Highlights award] much much better than expected. It was all so wonderful. Went beyond expectations once it got started. I would do it ALL again. Definitely. Yes, the sooner the better.’

M Reynolds from Newark
Comments:
‘I’m very sceptical and (with a background in a marketing-related profession) I tend to look at [the scratchcards] in terms of what the promoter stands to gain from them. I calculate how little risk I could be taking if I participate and I protect my rights. [Participation experience] very satisfying. [Purely Creative scratchcards are] fine. Yes I would [recommend to a friend]. Venice holiday award better [than expected]. Slight apprehension (unfounded) that we would be tricked into spending money. Most of my fellow travellers were delightful. [Memorable experience was] sitting in the café Florian in St Mark’s Square when one of our fellow travellers came in with two of the women from the coach and showed us a shockingly awful designer hat, which he had bought for his wife back home. He said she would love it! Later he agreed to model it for the coach travellers.’

D Pickett from Bournemouth
Comments:
‘A bit cynical [before playing the scratchcard]. Didn’t know if they were real or not. [Alpine Highlights award] much better than I expected. It was the least stressful holiday I have ever had. Met lots of nice people, lovely hotel and resorts, great excursions. [Worst aspect was] not knowing if the holiday was going to happen but when it did, it was brilliant. Excellent [service from European Vacations]. Tour guide was funny and very friendly and informative. The admin in the office gave me some options and helped me choose a week I could do. I have recommended it to my mum and dad.’

R Chaudhary from Harrow
Comments:
‘[Purely Creative scratchcards are] good. Exciting [experience]. Yes [would recommend to a friend]. Very good Turkey holiday. Apart from when my luggage got lost it was a lovely holiday. Weather sunny, good food. First class. Yes [would do it again], very much so. Everything was extremely good.’

I Small from Harrow
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] I was not sure the offer was for real. Took part not expecting much. Was looking for the “catch” but decided to take a chance. Would recommend [Purely Creative scratchcards] to a friend as all that was on offer was there and no “catch”. I was pleased to claim the Italian Highlights reward. The whole holiday was better than I had expected. It was well planned and went off nicely. Did not find anything really to complain about. [Memorable experience was] the different countries visited and the beautiful scenery driving along. The tours are very enjoyable. Very good [service from European Vacations]. Yes [would do it again] as they are very enjoyable.’

E Blanchard from Christchurch
Comments:
‘Excellent promotion… [Turkey holiday award] much better [than expected], was a fun and interesting holiday. [Memorable experiences were] the trip to Pamukkale and swimming in the hot springs was amazing. Excellent [service from European Vacations] – our rep ‘Swat’ was friendly and informative. Definitely [would do it again]. Can’t wait!’

A Jones from Warrington
Comments:
‘A bit wary [before playing the scratchcard]… not sure if it was legitimate or not. I thought I would on this occasion see what the prizes were like – although I was expecting a cheap fake gold watch! Yes [would recommend Purely Creative scratchcards to a friend] and I already have. [Italian Highlights award] much, much better [than expected]. Seeing the mountains at Lake Garda [was memorable experience], the beautiful monuments in Rome and Florence etc etc. Very good [service from European Vacations] – we had no troubles. Definitely [would do it again]. We had a really fantastic holiday. As a mother of 2 children we wouldn’t normally take a holiday without them but as we had won this holiday we felt like a rest and it was great to explore the wonderful cities without having any responsibilities, so we managed to relax even though it was a compact trip. It was great being able to see so much in just a week and also having the options of paying for an excursion or doing your own thing.’

P Mantle from Newtown
Destination:
Spain
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] I thought there was some sort of gimmick but it sounded good and turned out to be a really good [Italian Highlights] holiday. The fantastic scenery going over the Alps [was a memorable experience] and Lake Garda was beautiful. Venice was lovely as well. We have lots of nice memories.’

C Coleman from Eastleigh
Comments:
‘Dubious [before playing the scratchcard] – too good to be true. [Italian Highlights award] better [than expected]. Lack of vegetarian food [was worst aspect]. Italian cities [were memorable experience]. Good [service from European Vacations].’

M Wragg from Clifton-on-Teme
Comments:
‘I normally do not enter competitions, but… I decided to enter. I started thinking no such luck and was so pleased when I was able to claim the award. I was very pleased to get the chance to go to France. My daughter and I enjoyed the experience very much indeed. We both had been before on a family holiday staying in our caravan but the chance of staying in a very nice hotel was lovely. We visited the art exhibitions, went to see the Mona Lisa after waiting in a very long queue. To our amazement because I walk with the aid of a stick, after about ten minutes we were told to go to the front of the queue. I don’t think that would happen in England, do you? Our courier was excellent, he looked after everybody both on the journey and in Paris. We had some excellent meals in very good venues. Yes, I would certainly recommend Purely Creative scratchcards to friends. Most of them already know how much I enjoyed the one I won.’

B Rinvolucri from Ruthin
Comments:
‘Unsure [before playing the scratchcard]. Yes [would recommend to a friend]. Good [holiday award]. Swiss mountains [were memorable experience]. Good [service from European Vacations]. Yes [would do it again]. I am happy.’

J Rossiter from Maidenhead
Comments:
‘[Purely Creative scratchcards] better than expected. Yes [would recommend to a friend] and have done. [Italian Highlights award] better [than expected]. New friends and hospitality of guides [were memorable experiences], wonderful scenery and top class hotels, well planned routes through many countries of outstanding beauty. Very good [service from European Vacations]. Yes [would do it again]. Lovely time. Thank you.’

E McIlroy from Dromore
Comments:
‘This was the first promotional competition I had taken part in. Very exciting. Very good. I would definitely recommend [Purely Creative scratchcards] to a friend – in fact we have done so and they too enjoyed the holidays. [Italian Highlights award] better than expected. Travelling though the magnificent scenery in Switzerland, Italy and Austria [was memorable experience]. Excellent [service from European Vacations]. Definitely [would do it again. Very memorable holidays, hotels and food were excellent.’

D Tivey from Chorley
Comments:
‘I was very sceptical [before playing the scratchcard] and my husband worse! But now I believe that these promotions are good, and my husband has eaten his words!! I probably would [recommend Purely Creative scratchcards to a friend]. I told my son, and although he didn’t quite get it I believe he has sent in a couple of claims. We went to Italy last May and both enjoyed the trip and met some lovely people. Our 2 drivers were excellent and the hotel and the excursions were great. We loved the boat trip on Lake Garda, and loved seeing the beautiful villages with their flowers, especially Limone. It was lovely seeing Venice, Florence and Pisa.’

J Patterson from Crewe
Comments:
‘No problem [with Purely Creative scratchcards] – they were quite informative. It was fun and exciting to claim an award. Yes I would recommend them to a friend, the promotions were interesting and colourful. [Italian Highlights award] was much as expected, having read through the itinerary and various brochures supplied. There were many memorable moments, being the visits to Florence, Verona, Lake Garda, leaning tower of Pisa etc. Very good [service from European Vacations] – office staff and holiday staff very cooperative and helpful.’

B Thomson from London
Comments:
‘[Purely Creative scratchcards] have a purpose. Good [experience]. Yes I do and have recommended them. [Italian Highlights and Turkey holiday awards] as expected. [Memorable experiences were] the history and archaeological delights. Good [service from European Vacations].’

M Dean from Bromsgrove
Comments:
‘Felt very dubious [before playing the scratchcard]. Very easy [participation experience] and very good. Yes, would recommend. [Italian Highlights award] much better [than expected] most of the time. Great hotels, lovely views from some, all very good. [Memorable experience was] the trip to Lake Garda, was truly a lovely place. Very good [service from European Vacations]. Just enjoyed the holiday and was impressed with everything.’

J Marchant from Eastbourne
Comments:
‘A bit sceptical [before playing the scratchcard] that anything could be won and if a prize was received that it would be something of use and value. [Alpine Highlights award] better [than expected], the accommodation was good, the optional excursions interesting. Going back to Salzburg with its lovely square [was memorable experience].’

P Wilson from Uttoxeter
Comments:
‘I enjoyed the Italian Highlights holiday very much. The places we visited [were memorable experiences], Venice, Rome, Florence, Lake Garda. The service was very good and the guide was very knowledgeable. ’

C Kerwin from Yelverton
Comments:
‘[Italian Highlights award] slightly better [than expected]. There were no aspects that were unexpected for such a tour. Visit to Rome [was memorable experience]. Very professional [service from European Vacations].’

R Ricketts from London
Comments:
‘I just wanted to try my luck and find out more about the offer. Yes, I would definitely recommend [Purely Creative scratchcards] to a friend. Turkey holiday was better than I expected because I was so worried taking my friend with me. [Memorable experience was] up the 4000 feet high mountain and the warm salt city water of Pamukkale the natural steam house and natural swimming pool and warm bath in the hotel. Excellent [service from European Vacations]. Very much [like to do it again] – yes. Thank you very much for giving me the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful scenery etc., I have had a wonderful time. Thanks again.’

J Timm from Winscombe
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] not very interested. [Alpine Highlights award] too long in a coach, otherwise good. Scenery [was memorable experience]. Good [service from European Vacations].’

A Groves from Manchester
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] we did not believe in them. Sceptical at first but having claimed and booked the holiday found it very enjoyable. We have recommended [Purely Creative scratchcards] to friends and also to strangers. The holiday turned out better than we expected. Venice, gondola trip and a marvellous city full of history and an excellent guide (Abby) [were memorable experiences] first time. The second time we enjoyed a trip on the Vapporeto and made our own way around Venice.’

F Penfold from Snodland
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] I was a little wary. It was too good to be true but it turned out to be true and beautiful and a wonderful time. Yes I would [recommend to a friend] as we met some good friends and I am still in touch with them. [Memorable experience was] going to places I would never have been able to go to. The drivers were wonderful. I would like to say thank you for a holiday that I would never have been able to have and see, which was my trip to Pisa, Florence, so please keep making people’s dreams come true like you have mine.’

T Holkham from Sheerness
Comments:
‘All the sights made [Italian Highlights award] well worth it. I think Venice was spectacular. Yes [would do it again] but the last [award] you sent was Turkey by air. Me or my wife have never flown and we are not starting now. In future coach only please.’

K Jackson from Painswick
Comments:
‘Claiming a free [Italian Highlights] holiday seemed unbelievable. Yes, probably [would recommend Purely Creative scratchcards to a friend]. Fantastic tour bus guide. Met some lovely people. Excellent [service from European Vacations].’

C Gibbons from Leighton Buzzard
Comments:
‘The [Alpine Highlights award] was excellent, I am used to coach travel as I used to take 42 kids skiing to Austria every year. The worst aspect was that I didn’t know if it was a con. The coaches turning up [was memorable experience]! Lucerne – the lake and town, St Moritz, the coach over the mountains to get there. Excellent [service from European Vacations]. Yes indeed [would do it again]. My holiday to Austria and Switzerland was really good. The hotels were of high standard, including the food. Met some lovely people, including the rep.’

H Turati from London
Comments:
‘Bit dubious [before playing the scratchcard] and wondered if it was a con. [Participation experience] simple and prompt response. Have been on several tours. Some were better [than expected] and some exceeded expectations. Guides and tours were excellent. So many [memorable experiences] – top of mountain in Austria, Lake Garda – absolutely beautiful, Lucerne in Switzerland, Venice Lido, Rome. Great groups of people. Very good [service from European Vacations] for such a wide and varied clientele. Yes [would do it again]. Great to meet a variety of people and ‘banding with them’. Many characters and good company.’

T Rogers from Monmouth
Destination:
Spain
Comments:
‘[Favourite Purely Creative award was] a holiday apartment at one of Avanti complexes from a choice on the brochure. Very positive [experience], I was able to speak directly to staff to arrange dates which I needed to change. [My opinion of Purely Creative] hasn’t changed, I was expecting good service and I got that – thank you.’

M Egbers from Brecon
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] not sure what to expect. [Italian Highlights award] better than we expected. [Turkey holiday award] better than we expected. [Memorable experiences were] Lake Garda and Rome trips. Pamukkale and trip to Myra. [Service from European Vacations] better than expected. Very helpful and produced two enjoyable holidays for us. Thanks.’

J Wilson from Ilkley
Comments:
‘Nearly always take part [in Purely Creative scratchcards] if I have time. [Italian Highlights award] same [as expected]. Visiting the leaning tower of Pisa [was memorable experience].’

B Ratcliffe from Southampton
Comments:
‘I found [participating in the promotion] a very rewarding experience and I am very glad that I followed up the prize awarded. I would recommend [Purely Creative scratchcards] to a friend and also family members. We found that [the Italian Highlights award] was better than expected. [Memorable experience was] having a gondola ride in Venice. We had been to Venice before and I was unable to afford the price they were asking for it at that time. Very good [service from European Vacations], two excellent drivers and very accommodating with drinks and snacks.’

J Thom from Aberdeen
Comments:
‘I left Aberdeen to go on my holiday on a cold, grey, miserable September morning. We arrived at San Zeno Di Montagna in the Lake Garda district on Sunday night. Next morning, after breakfast, I took a stroll around the village, beautiful church, then back to the hotel, where I sat by the pool with a sparkling Campari and soda in hand, in brilliant warm sunshine, with the air filled with the scent of lemon trees… spread out below me was Lake Garda, with speedboats here and there, trailing searing white wakes behind them, like scars on the face of the cobalt blue water. On the far shore, little villages dotted along the lakeside, and behind them, the green olive grove clad hills, rising up and up, into a cloudless cerulean sky. I remember thinking, as I sipped my drink, “It doesn’t get any better than this”. There were other memorable moments on my [Italian Highlights] trip, but that memory sticks out, I think because of the sudden contrast between Aberdeen as I left it, and Lake Garda as I found it.’

S Stokuts-Fox from High Wycombe
Comments:
‘[Participating in the promotion] felt gr8. Yes would recommend 2 a friend. All holidays were gr8, fantastic hotels, brill. We did not want to go home. [European Vacations] could not do enough 4 us. Felt so comfortable. Yes [would do it again] – meet lots of friends. Brilliant value for money – worth phone calls every time.’

E Chatwin from Maidenhead
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard felt] too good to be true. Good promotions. Holidays were good. Cable car in Switzerland up mountains [was memorable experience]. Very good [service from European Vacations].’

P Martin from Brentwood
Comments:
‘Not quite sure [about the promotions] the first time but wrote my views after the Italian trip and did not hesitate for the Turkey trip last year. Quite delighted [with participation experience]. Yes [would recommend promotions to a friend]. Turkey [holiday award] enjoyable but not quite on a par with the Italian trip. [Memorable experience in] Turkey – the ice waterscape and ancient town ruins and the ancient theatre. Italy – all the places we went to – lovely. Extremely good [service from European vacations]. Yes [would do it again].’

C Boucher from Nuneaton
Comments:
‘When I first was awarded holiday my family and friends advised me not to take it, but I ignored them and gave it a try. Turned out to be good. Fantastic [participation experience] and was delighted to go on the Italian Highlights. Took my brother with me. Having trust in your company took up another award. Went to Turkey. Turned out to be satisfactory and an enjoyable one. Yes would recommend [promotions] to friends and family. [Memorable experience was] sightseeing in both Italy and Turkey. A delight to see. Really good [service from European Vacations] and can’t complain. Was pleased to take the chance.’

S Kumbaras from Romford
Comments:
‘[Before playing the scratchcard] I was afraid it would be a waste of money. My opinion [of Purely Creative scratchcards] is it was very good experience and enjoyed it, I would recommend my friends every time. Was worried about coach trips, that would be very tiring. I was surprised that it was not tiring and was very happy with it, especially [in Turkey] seeing the ancient and interesting places in Antalya ruins and St Nicholas. [Memorable Italian Highlights award experiences] were the scenery and being with nice people and good service from drivers and rep and good value. Magical Turkey was very good service [from European Vacations]. [Each holiday award] was better every time than the one before, and it’s getting better. I like to have an award… I like your service to be able to show people what there is to see in Europe.’

G Thiel from Waterlooville
Comments:
‘My wife and I enjoyed [Turkey holiday award] very much. Much better than we expected. Turkey is an amazing country. [Memorable experiences were] trip through the Taurus mountain range, limestone terraces of Pamukkale and ancient town of Hierapolis. Hotel Mirada del Mar, best hotel (food, service and facilities) on the whole holiday. First class [service from European Vacations], our guide was excellent and helpful and Mustapha our coach driver amazing.’

J Baker from Dunoon
Comments:
‘[The promotion] was a bit of fun! [Participating was] quite easy really, I sent the award card in by post without any trouble. It was fantastic to win [Italian Highlights] award. [Memorable experiences were] good company, very comfortable hotel, excellent food and wonderful weather, lovely swimming pool and the water was quite warm. So many things happened during the holiday that one of the passengers asked me to do a drawing of what might happen when they visited Pisa. I have enclosed a copy, just for fun! Anyway, thank you for a memorable holiday.’

K Doyle from Oldham
Comments:
‘Purely Creative scratchcards are] a great idea. [Participating was] a wonderful experience. Here’s to the next time. Yes, definitely [would recommend to a friend]. My sister and I found the whole [Italian Highlights award] a wonderful experience. We would recommend it to our friends. The hotels and food were of good quality. Can’t find anything to complain about, we even enjoyed the snow in the Alps. Venice was the place I loved and the most memorable! Excellent service [from European Vacations] throughout the whole holiday. Thank you.’

I Patel from Orpington
Destination:
Club Praia Da Oura, Algarve, Portugal
Comments:
‘To be honest, my expectations [of the scratchcard award] were not extremely high – but I was astonished by the helpful team at the resort and friendly locals. I truly felt that this was going to be a holiday with some hidden catches, but it was the opposite. Honesty and clarity were top notch. [The holiday was] very relaxing and peaceful and the sights were breathtaking. [Best aspects were] the scenery, pleasant staff and the amount of free hospitality and generosity. Excellent. [Worst aspect was] not being able to stay forever, haha. I felt that I had left the stress of English life behind and was holidaying in style. I would definitely re-visit, as initially I thought this was too good to be true until I experienced this opportunity – I want more and more of it.’

T Rogers from Monmouth
Destination:
Spain
Comments:
‘[Favourite Purely Creative award was] a holiday apartment at one of Avanti complexes from a choice on the brochure. Very positive [experience], I was able to speak directly to staff to arrange dates which I needed to change. [My opinion of Purely Creative] hasn’t changed, I was expecting good service and I got that – thank you.’

L Wood from Peterhead
Destination:
Grangefield Oasis Club, Malaga, Spain
Comments:
‘Receiving a holiday made my day. Our experience of taking part in the promotion was excellent, all staff were fantastic and helpful. The accommodation was excellent, the furnishings were superb as were the surroundings. Our son enjoyed taking part in the activities that were provided for free, i.e. archery, shooting. The restaurant was great for meals at a reasonable price. I would certainly like to win another [Purely Creative] scratchcard holiday – I will certainly be encouraging my friends to take them up. I never realised that apartment holidays were so good.’ Cannot fault them in any way, the service was 100%.’

R Beake from Faversham
Destination:
Spain
Comments:
‘I expected to get a holiday that I would have to pay money towards, but I got a holiday to remember. When I took part in the [Purely Creative] promotion I expected to be let down like most offers but I was not. My views [of the promotions] have changed completely, we had a very relaxing holiday, resort was great, apartment very good and all that we wanted from a holiday. We are going again in March.’

M Clarke from Enniskillen
Destination:
Royal Park Albatros, Golf Del Sur, Tenerife, Canary Islands
Comments:
‘The [Purely Creative] holiday award is great as I could not afford to go otherwise. All first class, the apartment and all the friendly staff – it was the best holiday.’

W Bryce from Newtownabbey
Destination:
Royal Park Albatros, Golf Del Sur, Tenerife, Canary Islands
Comments:
‘I never expected to hear back from [Purely Creative] after I sent the scratchcard back with the game number on it. These things happen to other people. Now I am one of them. I thought it was just fantastic to win a holiday in the sun just by taking part in a promotions offer. Still was not very sure of what was going to happen until we left the hotel, we were waiting for a bill of some sort! But accommodation was very good and all for nothing except flight and food which was of course expected before we left. It gave us the chance to spend time with our four year old grandson which we could not have afforded to do otherwise. It was wonderful. The holiday was very memorable, we were made to feel very welcome by the staff at the resort from the minute we arrived until we left. [My views of these promotions] have changed very much, I never thought it would be possible to win a holiday with a scratchcard. Would definitely do it again.’

R Barbour from Oban
Destination:
Royal Park Albatros, Golf Del Sur, Tenerife, Canary Islands
Comments:
‘Sceptical, unsure if I would be awarded [Purely Creative Tenerife holiday] prize. Professional, reliable and honest staff throughout from initial organisation to departure. Good hotel, nice friendly pool area with restaurant, good entertainment en site, excellent service with friendly professional staff.’

D McDonnell from London
Destination:
Grangefield Oasis Club, Malaga
Comments:
‘Didn’t expect to receive award. Very exciting. [Best aspects of holiday were] everything. The peace and quiet and the weather. The apartment was excellent. [Service was] excellent.’

L Laird from Failsworth
Destination:
Royal Park Albatros, Golf Del Sur, Tenerife, Canary Islands
Comments:
‘[Participating in the promotion was] OK, I expected nothing to come out of it. I expected a week’s holiday with a catch, so I was really surprised when I got the [Purely Creative holiday award] offer. [Best part was] just being in Tenerife enjoying the sunshine and getting to know new people. It was a great complex, the rooms were clean and comfy, the pool was great as was the food and everyone was nice and helpful. If I was to receive any other promotion I would definitely have a go.’

A Fielder from Worthing
Destination:
Golf Del Sur, Tenerife, Canary Islands
Comments:
‘We were all very pleased with the accommodation and our hotel was very pleasant. The staff were very helpful and polite. [Best aspects were] arriving to find a beautiful apartment, much better than we expected, and the nice swimming pool and the sunshine. Very good, enjoyed it very much. I am now awaiting my next [Purely Creative] holiday. Hope this will be as good as the last.’

C Davies from Coventry
Destination:
Royal Park Albatros, Golf Del Sur, Tenerife, Canary Islands.
Comments:
‘The week’s holiday was excellent – lovely hotel, fantastic staff and a bargain as only paid for flights. All aspects excellent – room, service and cleanliness, very friendly staff, very impressed. Very very good, excellent.’

S Mark from Falkirk
Destination:
Grangefield Oasis Club, Malaga, Spain
Comments:
‘Holiday voucher was my [Purely Creative] award. Good [experience]. Best parts were the weather, people we met, free trips, the trip to the diamond factory. Facilities and service were good.’

C West from Swindon
Destination:
Club Praia Da Oura, Algarve, Portugal
Comments:
‘Was not sure [about taking part]… guessed [award would be] something which would cost me money. [Participation experience was] excellent. Representative at Avanti very helpful and friendly and contacted me when she said she would. Hotel was wonderful and everyone so friendly. [Best aspect was] going to nearby beach and collecting mussels to eat for lunch. [Worst aspect was] coming home! [Overall] excellent. I still cannot believe my luck at winning this fabulous prize.’

A Folan from Huddersfield
Destination:
Grangefield Oasis Club, Andalucía, Spain
Comments:
‘I didn’t know what to expect [from the Purely Creative award] but me and my partner had a very pleasurable holiday at the Oasis Park in Spain. The staff were lovely, the place was beautiful. Overall a very memorable holiday. I expected at least some pressure to buy time-share but there was none, we had a great time. Fantastic, not unhappy with anything.’

M Houghton from Chelmsford
Destination:
Grangefield Oasis Club, Andalucía, Spain
Comments:
‘At the time of entering the competition I had recently had a stroke so I was sitting resting doing competitions, word searches, anything to keep my mind active. [Participating] was excellent. [Best aspects of the Purely Creative holiday were] accommodation, service, the weather and area.’

W Guthrie from Barnsley
Destination:
Grangefield Oasis Club, Andalucía, Spain
Comments:
‘Taking part was quite easy. At first I must admit I was a little dubious about [the Purely Creative Avanti holiday award]. I expected a free holiday, this is what was said and they kept to their word and I got one. The hotel and all the staff were brilliant. They could not do enough for us. [Best aspects were] peace and quiet, the sun shining and the birds singing. One day a bird flew into the patio doors (it could not see for the sun shining on them). I helped it recover, then watched it fly back to the other birds in the trees. A most enjoyable week, I am ready to receive my next holiday.’

L Rowlands from Liverpool
Destination:
Vera Beach Club, Almeria, Spain
Comments:
‘[Expected to receive] a small gift, so surprised when a holiday arrived. [Experience] very good, very clean complex. [Best aspects were] the swimming pool area and going out of an evening at the local pub. [Worst aspect was] wind on the beach. [Service] very good, five star.’

D Lowndes from Shepshed
Destination:
Club Praia Da Oura, Algarve, Portugal
Comments:
‘I was enrolled in the promotion by a friend without my knowledge. I had no preconceived ideas as to what the award would be like. Prizes I have been awarded by dubious companies have not been worth claiming but the [Purely Creative] holiday award we enjoyed very much. Good accommodation and service, good weather, no ‘timeshare’ pressure, very good. Most things were better than we were expecting.’

D Smith from Tain
Destination:
Club Praia Da Oura, Algarve, Portugal
Comments:
‘We were delighted to receive the [Purely Creative] award but we did not know what to expect. Accommodation in a beautiful part of the part of the world as described on the voucher – most enjoyable. [Best things were] the situation of the apartment and the helpful staff of the resort and the first walk along the beach at the resort. Excellent, would have been good to have spent longer there.’

D Burke from Port Navas
Destination:
Club Praia Da Oura, Algarve, Portugal
Comments:
‘The resort in Albufeira was close to the town and very convenient for relaxing for a few days before staying with our friends. Very good and friendly. The coach trip to Lisbon was interesting and informative and the railway journey to Villa Real de San Antonio very enjoyable.’

D Phipps from Croydon
Destination:
Algarve, Portugal
Comments:
‘We won a [Purely Creative] holiday and spent a fantastic week in Portugal. The resort was well groomed and very clean and friendly. Very good, thank you. Would love to do it again.’

Mrs McColl from Fulmer Village
Destination:
Club Praia Da Oura, Algarve, Portugal
Comments:
‘I’ll always claim my [scratchcard] prizes as this holiday was much better than I thought! [Best aspect was] the surprise of finding such a pleasant apartment/hotel of much better quality than we expected. Excellent staff – most helpful and friendly. [Best aspect was] my husband getting a ‘hole in one’ on the local golf course. [Worst aspect was] none. Excellent, perfect. Thank you!’

C Evans from Pwllheli
Destination:
Royal Park Albatros, Tenerife
Comments:
‘Didn’t expect an award, we just replied. [Participation experience] very enjoyable, hassle free. [Best aspects were] friendliness of staff, homely hotel and quiet area, weather – lovely!! [Memorable moment was] losing my goggles at Siam Park (very good attraction!) [Service was] very good. Pleasurable.’

Destination:
Club Praia Da Oura, Algarve, Portugal
Comments:
‘Was trying to win money or a holiday, I heard my friend did the same and won money and a holiday. Great, it was an experience I will never forget. A great resort with a lot of facilities and a great group of staff. I still think I was very lucky to have had the opportunity to have been in Portugal and for that I am very grateful. [Best aspects were] visiting a new country, a great resort with very nice and helpful staff. Having a rest from work in a beautiful resort. [Service] very good!’ (name not supplied).

R Kelly from Bangor
Destination:
Royal Park Albatros, Tenerife
Comments:
‘We were just glad to have the chance of participating. We were very grateful to have received such a wonderful prize, which we were very pleased to accept. [Opinion of scratchcards changed] for the better having received such a wonderful holiday. [Best aspects were] the wonderful accommodation and very friendly staff at the complex. The food and service were first class. [Memorable moment was] our trip to Loro Parque to see all the animals which was absolutely fabulous. [Worst aspects] none at all. [Service] first class. [Improvement would be] to have had two weeks instead of one.’

G Walker from Crieff
Destination:
Vera Beach Club, Almeria, Spain
Comments:
‘[Participating] was a low-risk high reward gamble. There was consequently no major expectation. [Experience was] good. [Best aspects were] the two pools for the children and the safety of the ‘gated environment’. [Memorable moment was] playing in the pool with the children. [Worst aspects] none really. Good service.’

H Elden from Ashbourne
Destination:
Spain
Comments:
‘Expecting a rip-off. However everything worked perfectly, hotel excellent. Sunny. Good food. Brill accommodation. We could have made more use of the two bedrooms by taking extra family. Very lucky. Recommended [Purely Creative] highly to friends and family. Hope to use you again shortly.’

G Lyon from Manchester
Destination:
Royal Park Albatros, Tenerife
Comments:
‘Mystery prize holiday, seemed too good to be true. Rang the phone number for details, very helpful staff explained all about the holiday. Cautious about such a good offer but no need to worry, an excellent experience. Excellent apartment, well equipped and comfortable with a good view. [Best aspects were] meals in the restaurant and the swimming pool. [Service] very good and helpful.’

T Manden from Stoke-on-Trent
Destination:
Spain
Comments:
‘We weren’t really sure what to expect to be honest. First thoughts were that it was a scam. [Participation experience] excellent, very good communication. [Best aspects of holiday were] the weather, accommodation and restaurant and entertainment in the restaurant at night.’

B Draper from Burscough
Destination:
Vera Beach Club, Almeria, Spain
Comments:
‘The resort was very clean and well run, the food was good, it was very relaxing. We were greeted warmly, the staff were very warm and friendly. The apartment was clean and well laid out.’

N Hunnisett from Hayes
Destination:
Spain
Comments:
‘[Best aspect was] a comfortable apartment in very pleasant surroundings. [Worst aspects?] none – we enjoyed the week very much. [Service] very good.’

H Spetch from Bournemouth
Destination:
Oura View Beach Club, Algarve, Portugal
Comments:
‘I did not know what to expect. [Best aspects were] sight seeing around Portugal. We spent a lot of time kayaking and paragliding. [Worst aspects] one really bad day in the rain. Hey, you can’t complain considering the weather in the UK. [Service] excellent, very friendly and efficient. I cannot think of any [improvements] it was brilliant, I would do it again.’

C Presbury from Nottingham
Destination:
Mijas Costa, Andalucía, Spain
Comments:
‘Taking part in this promotion made our year because we got a fantastic holiday out of it. I didn’t expect an award as such. I just received a voucher for a free holiday which I filled in and sent off just to see what came back. I was very sceptical filling in the forms because I thought we would just be hassled all week about time-share. This was not the case, it was brilliant. [Best aspects were] just about everything to be honest. The pool area was great, quite peaceful, very relaxing to sunbathe. And we also did lots of travelling on buses and trains to different areas. The food at the restaurant was also beautiful. Very romantic for my partner and myself, the restaurant outside in the warmth with nice light entertainment, Flamenco dancers etc. Also getting a voucher for a free meal and wine which was fantastic. Thank you for a fantastic holiday. x’

S Oakes from Croydon
Destination:
Vera Beach Club, Almeria, Spain
Comments:
‘I see from the list of awards it’s usually the holiday we’re most likely to win. I was somewhat doubtful about winning a free holiday – what the resort would be like etc. But we had a really nice holiday and it’s been a great experience. It was a real blessing to have a break away at a time when we could not afford a family holiday – so thank you.’

E Wright from Milton Keynes
Destination:
Vera Beach Club, Almeria, Spain
Comments:
‘The service at the resort was great and the staff were very helpful and friendly. The accommodation was first rate and very comfortable and clean, the pool was also lovely. [Best memory was] driving through the mountains along the coastal road – the views were amazing. Very good [service]. No [improvements required to the Purely Creative award] that I can think of.’

C Davies from London
Destination:
Vera Beach Club, Almeria, Spain
Comments:
‘At first I thought I was just going to receive some information – I was pleasantly surprised as I not only had a lovely invitation to a resort of my choice but I was able to talk several times to a lovely, well informed lady [at Purely Creative] who gave me all kinds of reassurances that later turned out to be true! The resort was as described, the personnel there were very helpful and the experience was great. Even my dad aged 92 years enjoyed it enthusiastically and was impressed despite having travelled all around the world! Perfect – fantastic – not a single complaint!’

J McGlone from Sandhurst
Destination:
Vera Beach Club, Almeria, Spain
Comments:
‘[Expected] 1 week’s accommodation in a sunny resort – was exactly as expected. [Best aspects were] the sun and the facilities on site.’

A Horton from Stalybridge
Destination:
Vera Beach Club, Almeria, Spain
Comments:
‘I didn’t expect to receive anything. I was led to believe that you don’t get anything for nothing. Glad I took part in the promotion with the outcome being a very enjoyable experience of a week in the sun. The apartment was excellent, maintained to a high degree, the staff very pleasant. The restaurant was lovely, served good food in nicely lit romantic setting, was divine. The location was a stone’s throw from the beach, very relaxing with nice weather too. Can’t think of any [worst aspects] other than getting lost trying to find the beach club. [Service was] excellent, cannot fault them. Overall I don’t think you could improve it, was all very nice.’

Mrs Buckman from Dunstable
Destination:
Portugal
Comments:
‘The resort was clean. Great for families. Great location for shops and beach, not too lively. [There was a] big swimming pool with small flume/slide. Nice food in the restaurant and bar area. The holiday experience was good as the scenery was beautiful with rocky mountains, beautiful beaches. Our location was good - 10 mins walk from beaches, restaurants, bars and shops.’

Ms Roberts from Coventry
Destination:
Turkey
Comments:
‘Very acceptable. Turkey is a lovely place, we have been before so we went to see some people that we know, and we had a smashing time. [The overall holiday experience was] fantastic!’

Mr Senior from Surrey
Destination:
Turkey
Comments:
‘[There were] loads of places to eat and drink. The hotel was clean and [the best thing about the holiday were the] restaurants near the harbour and bazaar.’

Mr Lynch from Ormskirk
Destination:
Prague
Comments:
‘We went to Prague, beautiful city, would go again. Stay in Prague was just long enough for us to see all we wanted - the old parts of the city.’

C Lewis from Aberdare
Destination:
Corfu Kavos Ellie
Comments:
‘The resort was lovely you could be in the lovely area or the quiet areas. Plenty of restaurants. We are going back there June 2010. Really enjoyed it. The best part on our holiday was on the beach, then going for lunch, and then out in the evening for a meal. The holiday was great.’

Ms Earle from Brockley
Destination:
Portugal
Comments:
‘The resort was beautiful and the hotel beach was wonderful. The old town was interesting. Great cake shop and art gallery. The indoor swimming pool was wonderful as was the jacuzzi. Service was good clean towels and beds made. [The best things about the holiday were] the coffee, the beer and day excursions especially to cape of St Vincent. Our driver was full of information about the Algarve and its history. Made it a most enjoyable day, his name was Carlos. The hotel cafe bar, the local flowers and local people were delightful. Very welcoming, one woman gave us a bunch of flowers from her garden!’

E Green from East Sussex
Destination:
Prague
Comments:
‘The people there were extremely friendly and helpful and most (though not all) could speak English. The prices were similar to the UK so spending was easy to work out. Overall we loved it.’

Mrs Rees from Surrey
Destination:
Portugal
Comments:
‘The resort was very pretty and clean. Lovely beaches and plenty to do and see. Also local buses were easy to understand, and people very helpful. The apartment was clean and towels changed most days. Lovely swimming pools. It was truly lovely. Haven’t been able to afford to go abroad for years, but with the voucher from you it made the experience worry free. Both flights and accommodation went very smoothly. Absolutely thrilling. A true joy to get away together and relax in the sun. Thank you.’

L White from Hants
Destination:
Portugal
Comments:
‘[The resort was] nicely situated - short walk to the town and beach. Rooms were ideal with balcony and view. Beds were comfortable. Kitchen was good and shower and bath. Overall it was very relaxing and the staff was very helpful.’

Mrs Veail from Scunthorpe
Destination:
Portugal
Comments:
‘It was our first visit to Portugal and we thought it was a lovely place; it has nice restaurants and shops, and lovely beaches. Friendly people. The apartment was very clean and spacious. Village was clean and well kept. Very helpful at reception. Overall it was excellent, very relaxing, a new place to explore.’

T Abra from Market Harborough
Destination:
Albufeira, Portugal
Comments:
‘[The hotel was] good, clean, tidy, good location. [The best thing about the holiday was the] sunshine, peace and quiet. Overall the holiday experience was good. All administrative arrangements were ok.’

Miss Allen from Wellingborough
Destination:
Barcelona
Comments:
‘Barcelona was great many beautiful buildings. Transport was fine. Absolutely no problems. Hotel was clean and fine. Overall it was very good.’

Mrs Dorman
Destination:
Algarve
Comments:
‘The resort was very good. Lots to do. Plenty of places to eat and drink. [The best aspect of the holiday was] the weather.’

Miss Gaunt from St Leonards
Destination:
Turkey
Comments:
‘Overall the best holiday I have ever been on. [Before departure] all questions about baggage allowance and flight details were answered in a friendly manner, very helpful. The resort was beautiful. We stayed in Armutalan, which was a quiet resort a bus ride from Marmaris. We had views of the sea and the mountains from our apartment. The hotel was family run, it was so nice, really lovely friendly people and a great atmosphere. The apartment was very spacious and clean and we had a huge balcony. A maid cleaned the rooms every day. Lovely swimming pool, cafes and restaurants. It was so central we visited many beautiful towns which were all accessible by local bus. The excursion we went on as part of the hotel's entertainment was brilliant - the jeep safari day is a must do! Turkey is such a beautiful country. It is steeped in culture, from the amazing architecture of the mosques and buildings to the lovely friendly people, I recommend Turkey to anyone who wants a holiday to remember.’

Mr Cowley from London
Destination:
Majorca
Comments:
‘Transfers were excellent. The hotel was clean, staff were helpful, a real delight to stay. We both found the resort delightful. Bars and restaurants always clean and people friendly and willing to assist. The best thing [about the holiday] was the locality and the comfort in which we stayed. Overall, delightful to be able to relax and enjoy.’

Mr Franklin from Swindon
Destination:
Turkey
Comments:
‘Wonderful. Very friendly people and lovely weather. All amenities very accessible. Hotel very comfortable, very courteous staff. Can I go again?’

Mr Monaghan from Belfast
Destination:
Croatia
Comments:
‘[Best aspect was] relaxing on the beach, the nice warm weather and going out to pubs and clubs every night.’

Mrs Sharpe from Chelmsford
Destination:
Zante
Comments:
‘The resort was very nice and the hotel staff were very good. The pool was very nice, plenty of sunbeds. As I am in a wheelchair some of the time it was great that we were on the ground floor and the pool was easy to get into. We thoroughly enjoyed the holiday.’

Mrs Murphy from Hornchurch
Destination:
Turkey
Comments:
‘Apartments ideally situated, very clean. Pool and bar area very clean, recommended. Friendlier than other hotels - we met lots of people and got to know the staff who were very friendly and helpful. Enjoyed relaxing around the pool. Very enjoyable.’

Mr Bishton from Market Drayton
Destination:
Majorca
Comments:
‘We liked the resort very much. A first class beach and it was lovely warm weather. We enjoyed every aspect of it. Overall, excellent - we had a very enjoyable time and we would be more than happy to go with you again.’

Martin Stephens from Wakefield
Destination:
Nile Cruise
Comments:
‘Even as I turned up at the airport with my bags packed I still had a bit of doubt as to whether the prize was actually going to be real. I gave my name in at the Thompson holiday desk, waited a couple of anxious moments and there it was, a flight ticket to Luxor in Egypt …and Back! I’d actually won a dream prize. Not just a trip to Egypt, but a cruise down the Nile with even a few excursions thrown in for good measure! What an eye opener the trip was… first a window seat as we flew over the Sahara dessert and then the heat of the air in Luxor a mid summer’s baking hot forty two degrees. Fifteen minutes away was my river boat, and my new best friends waiting to cruise the Nile with me. An excellent tour guide took us to all the famous temples, the valley of the kings and all the things you would ever want to see in Egypt. There was none of that 'get an inside & pay more for an outside cabin' thing on our ship – everyone got an outside room with a huge picture window – and in all honesty I’d say it was a five star boat and… I love this bit (because I’m tight fisted);- all meals on board were included in the price - (which in my case was was nothing). I couldn’t resist telling all the other passengers that I’d won the holiday on a scratch card – after all isn’t that half the fun? All the holiday cost me was my taxi to the airport a few drinks on board and I opted for an extra tour or two – (well you’ve got to do the camel riding in a Nubian village on the edge of the Sahara desert thing!); It made me feel like I was Michael Palin on one of his round the world adventure travel documentaries - and best of all because the crowd on the boat were a good lot of folks, I’ve got some new friends back here in England. Thanks Purely Creative. Without your prize I’d never take time away from my business or treat myself to this – I’m normally all credit crunched up & far too tight fisted. ’

Mrs O'Neill from Offaly
Destination:
La Pointe St. Gilles campsite, Benodet, France
Comments:
‘I won the trip to Prague which was brilliant, I just knew there was a chance I might win again. I love going on holidays so when I see a holiday I go for it! I was delighted, especially when I saw [the Keycamp holiday] was for 5 people. My husband and kids were too. [Purely Creative Customer Service team] went out of their way to make sure I was satisfied with all the travel arrangements. We had never stayed in a tent before and it was a great adventure, we all loved it. They made us feel very welcome and the tent was lovely and clean. We went to a lovely pizza place in Quimper, the nicest pizza I've ever had! Overall, it was brilliant, my husband and kids and myself had a ball. The weather was fab. Thank you so much.’

Ms Clasper from Stockton on Tees
Destination:
Greek Island Cruise
Comments:
‘I contacted [the holiday company] regarding transport from the airport to the ship. However, I needn’t have worried because we flew with Thomas Cook and we even got a lift on one of the coaches to and from the ship – nothing was too much trouble. The cruise was wonderful! I’d cruised on three previous Cunard Cruises which I found very nice, however I found both captain and all staff on board most friendly and helpful. Exquisite food, service just wonderful. Happy at all times – and I took my sister who hadn’t cruised before. We had a happy and really enjoyable time, and I and my sister look forward to our next cruise, as I’ve just won another. Can’t wait. A lovely lovely cruise, very happy and ever so friendly ship. A lovely holiday, well done and best wishes. I can honestly say having been on other cruise ships, my cruise on the Celebration was without doubt the best cruise ever.’

Ms Leighton from Stafford
Destination:
Cyprus
Comments:
‘The resort was fairly quiet, very clean, nice beaches, shops were very convenient and so were the bars and restaurants, plenty of places to eat out. Very nice, suitable for families. The hotel was excellent, staff were very helpful and it was very clean. Overall – brilliant!! Was really impressed and would go there again!’

Ms Bentley from Warwickshire
Destination:
Greek Island Cruise
Comments:
‘Thomson Celebration cruise ship – excellent staff, excellent food, excellent resorts. [Best destination was] Santorini – sun bathing and lovely beaches. Overall [holiday experience] was fantastic!’

Ms Lindridge from Havant
Destination:
Crete
Comments:
‘The pool area was very nice, the staff were helpful and friendly. The beach and facilities were good. [Malia] Old City itself is lovely and the local people were very friendly. The boat trip we went on was very good. Best things [about the holiday] were sun, beach, archaeology, local people and pool.’

Mrs Ruck from Monmouth
Destination:
Crete
Comments:
‘Stayed in a nice part of the resort, very quiet with nice restaurants serving good food. The weather was lovely and hot. Overall, very good, really enjoyed it.’

Fu Shen Tsen from Ilford
Destination:
Greek Island Cruise
Comments:
‘Thomson cruise is renown for its quality – we have done a lot of cruises, the Thomson fleet goes to so many places. This ship is just grand, so many things to do. The weather was good. It has everything and something for everybody, e.g. sun–lovers get the sun and we get to see the locals and the ports we stopped in. It was excellent and brilliant, we had a great time and met people who are our friends now.’

Ms Ireland from Oxted
Destination:
Crete
Comments:
‘Very nice [hotel], I liked the size of the building, not too big. No complaints. The best thing [about the holiday] was the warm sun, you could sit on the balcony with the sea view and just 50 yards to the beach. [Overall experience] – relaxed.’

Mr Brown from Fareham
Destination:
Greek Island Cruise
Comments:
‘We went on the Greek Island Cruise on Thomson Celebration. The ship crew, food and entertainment were all first class. The shore trips were very good and reasonable value for money. Very good value. Santorini was the best part of the trip. It had always been a long term goal to do a Greek Island Cruise and now thanks to you we have done it. Thank you.’

P. Singh from Bains
Destination:
Crete
Comments:
‘Yiannis Manos Apt is of excellent standard. Clean and has standards. Staff are friendly. As Sikh customers we were satisfied overall. Best things were the beaches, the nightlife and Heraklion City. I was happy and so were my family.’

S Brown from Cleveland
Destination:
Crete
Comments:
‘Usual amenities, staff always friendly. The best thing [about the holiday] was sightseeing and walking around the resort. A change from the norm.’

Ms Marsh from Suffolk
Destination:
Crete
Comments:
‘I contacted customer services to ensure everything was true and not a scam! [The resort] was very nice, everything local. Nice small comfy complex, everyone friendly, nice beach area. Nice spacious rooms containing the main equipment and cleaned regularly. Nice view from balcony. Best thing was how everything was so close together, only short walks etc. Walk straight in off the beach, bar staff so friendly. Overall very nice and enjoyable, would go back to same place. I'd recommend to anyone.’

Ms Jackson from Northwich
Destination:
Turkey
Comments:
‘We enjoyed the holiday. Kusadasi is very picturesque, the hotel was good too. Best things about the holiday? The weather, people and atmosphere. Overall, excellent.’

G Faye from Crawley
Destination:
Turkey
Comments:
‘Fantastic resort. Hotel clean and very friendly. Can't wait to go back. The beach, the bars and restaurants great, and all in walking distance - perfect.’

Mr Galbney from Larkhall
Destination:
Turkey
Comments:
‘Antalya was very nice. Hotel nice and the staff so helpful. We had a really great time, shopping and eating out every night and going to the beach.’

R Gonesh from Margate
Destination:
Zante
Comments:
‘Resort not far from airport - transfer by coach took about 10-15 minutes. Hotel clean, comfortable, pleasant and loved it! Near the beach, quiet surroundings, family orientated and lovely. Nice staff, helpful, would go again – a very pleasant place to be.’

Mr Aitken from Edinburgh
Destination:
Turkey
Comments:
‘Very good waterfront, very good restaurants and shopping. Hotel owner and staff very good and friendly. best things? Definitely the weather and friendliness of local people, all arrangements made for us. We both thoroughly enjoyed the whole holiday though 7 days were not enough - 10-12 days would be perfect. Can't see where you have to improve.’

P Durrant from Ipswich
Destination:
Zante
Comments:
‘It was a good break from our normal life. The weather was excellent for 5 days but cooler for the last 2 (not a bad thing).’

Mr Kenyon from Frodsham
Destination:
Crete
Comments:
‘Resort - excellent. Hotel - excellent. Best things - weather, hospitality of hotel owners and staff. Overall experience - excellent. Each holiday is a bonus, people should not complain.’

Mr Smith from Worsley
Destination:
Tunisia
Comments:
‘I sent one letter asking for an update on the holiday, [the holiday company] reacted extremely quickly and efficiently, very pleasing. The Thomson brochure doesn't do justice to the hotel (RIU Park El Kebir). The hotel staff were exceptionally pleasant, polite and helpful, the food excellent. The restaurant was immaculate and efficiently run by staff. The whole holiday was memorable, 1st class. People are sceptical of gamecard promotions and it is nice to show them the results of taking part.’

Miss Rook from London
Destination:
Zante
Comments:
‘A great prize (we thought it must be a hoax right up until the flight!). The company was very quick to help with queries. Nice hosts, good pool. Best part was the boat trip around the island – blue sea and coves were awesome. Very nice locals and perfect temperature. Well worth it, thanks Guys!’

Mrs Colley from Leeds
Destination:
Zante
Comments:
‘I just started entering for a bit of fun. Zante was lovely, the accommodation was very clean, Greek food delicious, Greek people very friendly. Resort worth going to again. Overall we had a very enjoyable holiday.’

Mr Hughes from Banbury
Destination:
Majorca
Comments:
‘Queries were answered efficiently by the holiday company. Excellent accommodation, clean, tidy, everything worked. We requested a room change in order to have the sun on our balcony in the evenings. This was arranged efficiently and enthusiastically. One of our most enjoyable holidays, very relaxing with no problems whatsoever.’

Mr Bendeaux from Badminton
Destination:
Turkey
Comments:
‘I have been on the holidays before and it was good meeting people I'd met 18 months ago. I was offered my choice destination and preferred departure dates. Stayed in Gumbet. Super resort, plenty to do and such friendly people. I'll be going there again.’

Mr Foad from Caerphilly
Destination:
Fuerteventura
Comments:
‘I've never been interested in scratchcards before - just thought I'd see how it worked. A holiday seemed a nice prospect, however I was very sceptical. The holiday company service was excellent - they always called back promptly and were friendly. Accommodation very nice quality, spacious and clean. We had a Thomson tour guide to look after us - and nice weather. My dates also coincided with our wedding anniversary - thank you for that! The tapas was out of this world, and the Imagine bar in Corralego was brilliant as it had a string musician playing requests all night. We had a wonderful catamaran adventure day, sailing, scuba, snorkelling and jet skiing. We had a fabulous time overall, lovely and really relaxing. Great holiday prize, great process, now I know people DO win!’

Ms Lloyd from Biggin Hill
Destination:
Italy and Portugal
Comments:
‘It was the holiday we played for - I wanted to visit Italy. It was all lovely for different reasons. I think we liked Lake Garda best (it was beautiful and relaxing) but Rome, Venice and Florence were lovely too. We had thought that as it was a promotional holiday we would end up having to pay more but the trip was free. We have just come back from another trip, to Portugal for a week. Very nice, the holiday company staff were very helpful.’

Mrs Allinson from Bidford
Destination:
Italy
Comments:
‘Walking through Venice was memorable.’

Ms Hall from Poulton le Fylde
Destination:
Turkey
Comments:
‘Accommodation was clean and everyone was very hospitable. The steaks were to die for in the restaurant. Enjoyed sitting by the harbour watching the boats as we ate our meals. My thoughts on the holiday experience overall are extremely favourable. We had never been to Turkey before but will definitely go again.’

Mr Saunders from Bristol
Destination:
Majorca
Comments:
‘I've won a few cheques before, and a previous holiday. Accommodation was on a large complex with lots of on-site amenities, various snack bars, choice of pools and a large lake. We found a nice ‘English’ restaurant and it pleased us that they had nightly Bingo - good for us ‘addicts’. Went out each day. The scratchcards are worth trying.’

Mrs Dunford from Dewsbury
Destination:
Majorca
Comments:
‘I have had smaller value prizes before but not a holiday! I was at home when I found out and I phoned my husband! The accommodation was fine. The best times were trips to Palma, the ‘Pirates’ show and boat trip and meals in Palma Nova. Winning the holiday has encouraged me to keep trying to win more prizes.’

Mr Tomi from Bedford
Destination:
Majorca
Comments:
‘There's a first time for everything. Best experience was a boat trip.’

Mrs Bell from Dumfries
Destination:
Zante
Comments:
‘'Never won anything before, phoned and told friends. Very clean, friendly people, courteous staff. The holiday was great.’

Mr Ward from Stafford
Destination:
Majorca
Comments:
‘I thought no one ever wins but I'd played once before and got a watch. Every moment was enjoyable, the places to eat and drink were great and the Spanish people made us welcome with a little taste of England. With being a football fan (my team was promoted) I was able to watch every minute of the game in the sun and with a cheap beer. Brilliant holiday! Fantastic time! Loved by all our party! Defo go again! Thanks!’

Ms Atkin from Okehampton
Destination:
Majorca
Comments:
‘I have won other holidays before, We were pleasantly surprised at the clean and modern apartments. The staff were polite and accommodating, including the Thomas Cook rep.’

Mr Prewecki from Gwent
Destination:
Amsterdam
Comments:
‘Well I didn't think I was that lucky but if it's free I'll try it. It was free so… The holiday company was very helpful when we called and were fast with holiday requests. We were very happy with the rooms and the area was in a fun part of the town. I would go back to the area again. We had lots of room and the people were very helpful with us. Lots of fun, look forward to going back. Wouldn't change a thing, it was great.’

Mrs Baker from Diss
Destination:
Majorca
Comments:
‘I was really pleased. The travel company kept me informed in an easy to understand way. The hotel was 4T plus - better than expected. Accommodation was clean and comfortable, good facilities, food and entertainment.’

Mrs Whitehead from Cleveleys
Destination:
Gran Canaria
Comments:
‘The holiday was excellent - everything was great! Swimming and sunbathing every day, lots of palm trees, great weather! Very memorable!’

Ms Morris from Twyford
Destination:
Majorca
Comments:
‘I was surprised - thought there'd be a catch! Best aspect was the accommodation - everything was supplied. It was nice to get away, I liked walking along the beach. I had a very enjoyable experience, many thanks. I hope I win again!’

Miss Fairgrieve from Dundee
Destination:
Lanzarote
Comments:
‘I'd never played before (I was slightly suspicious of scratch cards and usually discarded them) but it was a wet miserable day and I was down in the dumps. The holiday arrangements went like clockwork. Lanzarote is an interesting island with more than sun, sea and sand on offer. The weather was ideal, warm but with a breeze. The local people were friendly and we got good service. After the cold winter the break and sunshine were just what the doctor ordered!’

Mr Smith from Royston
Destination:
Majorca
Comments:
‘[The gamecard] was just out of a newspaper - I decided to have a go and see what would actually happen. Satisfied with the holiday - accommodation and weather were good. Went swimming in the pool at about 3am for a stupid bet!’

Mr Greenaway from Wrexham
Destination:
Majorca
Comments:
‘Played before, went on holiday last year to Palma. Played again because I wanted another holiday! We travelled with Thompson this time, the accommodation was very good. Enjoyed the entertainment in the hotel, and the weather.’

Mrs Amirouche from Woodburn Common
Destination:
Lanzarote
Comments:
‘The rooms were fine, and we found a great English pub on the beach front that was screening the final of the X-Factor - we had a great laugh with the staff. It was a great prize to have won, I will continue to do your scratchcards. Thank you very much!’

Mr Johnson from Walsall
Destination:
Majorca
Comments:
‘I had participated in quite a few of the promotions. Satisfied with the service provided by the holiday company and Purely Creative Customer Services. We went to a fantastic pirate show.’

Mr Gill from Kent
Destination:
Majorca
Comments:
‘Accommodation was clean and practical, enjoyed sightseeing across the island. This was a good one!’

Mrs Campbell from Kent
Destination:
Spain
Comments:
‘Very satisfied. I will be taking part in more Purely Creative games in the future.’

Ms Lane from Cheshire
Destination:
Barcelona
Comments:
‘Loved all of it - no problems. Travel company very polite, friendly and informative. Fantastic location, couldn't fault any of it. We decided to walk the tourist bus route, saw so much and took in the local culture as a result - superb. Very happy.’

Ms Pickavance from Manchester
Destination:
Spain
Comments:
‘Accommodation clean, good. Many restaurants and places to eat/drink, very good. I prefer the holiday awards, travel to Spain particularly.’

Ms Nunn from Leicester
Destination:
Majorca
Comments:
‘I liked it all.’

Ms Ryan from Halstead
Destination:
Barcelona City Break
Comments:
‘I was pleased with the holiday.’

Miss Norton from Leeds
Destination:
Barcelona
Comments:
‘[The holiday company] were very organised and sent me all the relevant documentation. I love Barcelona and my boyfriend had never been before. Going to the Nou Camp Barcelona FC stadium was amazing! I really enjoyed the holiday and everything was well organised. Accommodation, destination and everything was brilliant.’

Miss Silva from London
Destination:
Tunisia
Comments:
‘The people were really nice and the animation team were lovely!’

Mr Sanders from Bristol
Destination:
Benidorm
Comments:
‘Visiting Munro Mar Park was a great day out plus we had a lovely sunny day.’

Mr Bendeaux from Badminton
Destination:
Majorca
Comments:
‘I have enjoyed 1 week in Tunisia all inclusive (twice) and a Mediterranean cruise. The best aspects of [the Tunisia holiday] were the destination, the accommodation and the local area.’

Miss Botchey from London
Destination:
Malaga
Comments:
‘[The accommodation] had great decor and was near facilities like the shopping centre - fantastic area. We took a day trip to Africa which was amazing. We rode camels and danced with snakes.’

Mrs Luscombe from Gloucester
Destination:
Majorca
Comments:
‘I was very satisfied with the service provided by the holiday company, excellent communication. The accommodation and food was good quality and there was nothing I disliked about the holiday. It was a great family holiday.’

Mrs Higham from Cumbria
Destination:
Torremolinos
Comments:
‘We really enjoyed the holiday. The location and weather were very good.’

Ms Marsh from Manchester
Destination:
Spain
Comments:
‘Very satisfied [with Purely Creative], our queries were answered in a nice manner. We had a nice day trip, the mountain village was beautiful, as were the little shops and church.’

Mrs Taylor from Portsmouth
Destination:
Italy and Switzerland
Comments:
‘I didn't think I stood a chance until I heard about friend who has won something on these scratchcards. Everything about the holiday was exciting and enjoyable. Purely Creative were extremely pleasant and helpful, we had no complaints at all about the excellent service they provided. The accommodation was very clean and comfortable. It would be difficult to pick just one memorable moment. Everything left an impression. We had no complaints at all, the entire holiday exceeded everything we expected - it was unbelievable! I have a more positive attitude to gamecards now.’

Ms Hussein from London
Destination:
Tunisia
Comments:
‘I was overwhelmed with the all-inclusive holiday and very excited. Beautiful sights in Tunisia - had a wonderful time there and enjoyed everything. Accommodation, people, pool, activities - so wonderful. I am so very happy and satisfied, thank you. Hoping to find more scratchcards so I can go again to wonderful destinations.’

Ms Clelland from Farnham
Destination:
Tunisia
Comments:
‘I didn't think I would be lucky, at first thought it was just a gimmick, but I was very pleased with the holiday and with the service provided. I was contacted by phone and told when to expect details by post, which arrived when I was told they would. The accommodation was very clean and comfortable, there was nothing to dislike about the hotel. A memorable moment? The first time I had been on a camel! If there are more holidays on the gamecards I will enter, I enjoy doing them and it does not cost a lot.’

Ms McConnell from Scotland
Destination:
Majorca
Comments:
1st Holiday: ‘I liked the sound of a holiday though the destination was one I'd always rejected in the past. What a fool I was. I thought it would never come to fruition, when I actually got dates and departure point I was over the moon. Wow!! On arrival whisked off in a Mercedes to a really nice hotel with multilingual reception staff. A beautifully appointed room, lovely service from the desk staff who went out of the way to help. Beautiful Can Pastille, quite lovely long golden beach I never did reach the end of. Sunshine throughout (at least I think that's what it was as it doesn't appear in Scotland!). Jacket went in the wardrobe when I arrived and only came out when I left. I've never been so relaxed in my life. It was all so well run I didn't need Customer Services. I couldn't have been happier. [Purely Creative gamecards] are worth taking a look at, you never know what gems you might find behind this type of advertising.’

2nd Holiday: ‘At first I hadn't realised just how good these promotion are - I thought I'd probably receive something that was just cheap or there would be hidden charges. I had a lovely time - the hotel was clean and bright, 5 star staff and food. I enjoyed a wonderfully quiet cove I found a few minutes walk from the top class hotel - bliss! I've taken part in all the Purely creative games that have come my way, you always receive something nice and I've been on two holidays so far this year.’

Mr Johnson from Keighley
Destination:
Majorca
Comments:
‘If you keep trying you have more chance of winning. The hotel was very nice - the rooms were massive and fully furnished. Enjoyed visiting Palma and Magaluf.’

Ms Craig from Appleby
Destination:
Spain
Comments:
‘[Holiday company] was very good and friendly. Accommodation very clean and serviceable and staff friendly. It was a break, a change of scene!’

Miss Douglas from London
Destination:
Alicante
Comments:
‘[The holiday company] were very helpful and honest when I called them. Also prompt with postal responses. The studio apartment was very nice. I liked the shopping out there as clothes were not that expensive.’

Mr Drake from Northwood
Destination:
Alicante
Comments:
‘I have won a few holidays like this before. Very satisfied with Purely Creative customer service. The accommodation was clean and tidy, adequate for three people.’

Mrs Wilde from Kenilworth
Destination:
Greek Island Cruise
Comments:
‘I had never played scratchcards before but I always wanted to go on a cruise. I had no expectations because I had never been on a cruise before but I hoped that because I was interested in the Classical Greece aspect the rest would be OK. I was most satisfied with the prize. Excellent information and communication [from holiday company]. Every day a trip took us to yet another exciting place and the guides supplied were very good. The photography tutorials and lectures on Classical Greece were well worth attending, I learnt a lot.’

Miss Jones from Chesham
Destination:
Prague
Comments:
‘I had played before. Satisfied [with holiday company]. Best aspect of the holiday was the destination.’

Ms Pickavance from Manchester
Destination:
Majorca
Comments:
‘I had never played gamecards before. I was surprised and glad [about Majorca holiday award] and waited for the holiday pack. [The holiday company] kept to the promised holiday deal. Accommodation was very clean, good view! I liked the coach visits arranged by rep at hotel. A great experience, thank you. Holiday prizes are very good prizes!’

Miss Cheung from Bideford
Destination:
Spain
Comments:
‘The best aspects were the destination, the people, the food, the local area and the weather.’

The Hall family from West Sussex
Destinations:
Italian Highlights tour, Paris and Greek Islands
Comments:

‘Best thing [about Italian Highlights tour] was all the lovely hotels we stayed in, especially Switzerland overlooking Lake Garda, and Austria where we woke up to snow falling, it was picturesque. Liked visiting Venice, the leaning tower of Pisa and the Coliseum in Rome - all amazing sights and lovely hotels. We saw eight different destinations - very enjoyable.’

‘The weather was fantastic when we went [to Paris] which made the trip even better. Best moments were visiting the Eiffel Tower and sightseeing along the River Seine in a boat.’

‘The [Greek Island] hotel was the Sunny Corfu resort in Sidari run by Spiros and Claire who made our stay really enjoyable. The rooms were lovely as was the food and facilities. The Greek people we met were very friendly. Quad biking around the islands was great fun and really cheap to hire. This was our third [Purely Creative] holiday.’

Mr Charlesworth from Lytham
Destination:
Majorca
Comments:
‘The beach was perfect and unspoilt.’

Mr Smith from London
Destination:
Majorca
Comments:
‘Satisfied. Best things were the food and a train ride.’

Mr Britnell from West Yorkshire
Destination:
Tunisia 4* all-inclusive and Majorca (twice)
Comments:
‘My Tunisia holiday was superb - it met all of my expectations and more. It was a very good hotel and the whole holiday was brilliant from start to finish. Please send me again - arrange for me to receive all future scratchcards featuring holidays!’

‘The Majorca holiday was great - accommodation, staff and food excellent. I would not change anything. Purely Creative promotions are great fun, I keep winning what I like - holidays!’

‘Majorca again. I was happy to be on holiday. Memorable moment - the goats that visited every evening wearing cowbells just so they could be heard from afar.’

Mr Store from West Yorkshire
Destination:
Greek Islands
Comments:
‘There were sun loungers and parasols where you could press a button and get bar service on the beach! Lovely! People were so friendly and happy. A really traditional place. The old churchyard ruins were very interesting. The sea was crystal clear.’

Mr Powell from Benfleet
Destination:
Menorca
Comments:
‘There was nothing to dislike - the whole holiday was great.’

Mr Reeves from Ryde
Destination:
Majorca
Comments:
‘I have always been attracted to scratchcard promotions offering holidays‘ I‘ve been playing since 2001. At first I had my doubts but I sent off the card and my confidence in these scratchcards was confirmed. I would not change anything about the [Majorca] holiday. [The holiday company] was very efficient in their dealings with me, the accommodation was very good. The destination was one that I had been to more than once before, and it was nice to see a different part. The people, both at the hotel and locally, were so friendly, kind and helpful. The food was excellent. The weather was very good ‘ went as high as 34°. I feel that this has been one of the best holidays I have ever had. Whilst no aspect stands out it is for precisely that reason that the holiday was one of the best all-round experiences I have undergone. From the original notification of my holiday offer to my finding this traveller survey awaiting my return, I feel that everything has been dealt with in the best way possible.’

Ms Atkin from Okehampton
Destination:
Italy, Paris and Switzerland/Austria
Comments:
‘Basically I am quite sceptical about these things but the holidays were well organised. The areas visited all had interesting or beautiful places to see or go to. The Trevi Fountain in Rome was amazing. The Eiffel Tower in lights at night was great. I enjoyed all the holidays I‘ve had, as I would not have been to most of the places under my own steam. I wouldn‘t change anything about the holidays I‘ve had.’

Miss Dhoote from Wolverhampton
Destination:
Greek Islands
Comments:
‘I am very grateful for the holiday. We went on a boat trip to Spinalonga Island ‘ it was an amazing trip. Very beautifully scenic ‘ clear waters, blue sky and sunshine. It was beautiful, felt sooo relaxing. I swam in the sea. It was an overall good experience, thank you very much.’

Mrs Young from Sidcup
Destination:
Menorca
Comments:
‘Happy... the holiday award exceeded all my expectations.’

Miss Mumford from Tiverton
Destination:
Barcelona
Comments:
‘I have done a lot of scratchcard comps‘ had not been to Barcelona before. Enjoyed tourist bus and Gothic cathedral.’

Miss E Morgan from Bristol
Destination:
Majorca
Comments:
‘I had played with your company before and received an MP3 player and a digital camera, which encouraged me to keep playing. I was feeling quite low as it's been a rotten summer so the chance to lie in the sun, eat good food, swim in the sea and meet new people was a godsend. I was more than happy with the holiday dates offered, the flight was comfortable and enjoyable and the location was lovely. The hotel was very clean and hospitable and the breakfast buffet was a bit too enjoyable! The pools were lovely and clean, the staff very friendly and helpful.

Having won several prizes and returned today from a lovely holiday, tanned and relaxed I obviously feel positive about Purely Creative promotions. The attitude of 'you don't get something for nothing' is hard to get over - many of my friends were sceptical, assuming there would be time-share catches, but this wasn't so. I think many of them will be playing the scratchcards from now on. I have no reservations whatsoever about recommending your promotions. Many many thanks for your good service and great prize!’

Ms Moras from Axminster
Destination:
Greek Islands
Comments:
‘Very pleasantly surprised! I hadn't played before (I thought the prizes would be rubbish) but everything went smoothly. Exciting! Good rep at the other end, questions answered. Accommodation very clean, pleasant owners. Had very enjoyable boat trip. Turned out much better than I had expected.’

Mrs Alexander from Bognor Regis
Destination:
Greek Islands
Comments:
‘I thought there must be some catch, but Purely Creative were very helpful and prompt in answering my email and I was very satisfied with the service provided by the holiday company. Staff at the hotel were very friendly and we met lovely people. There wasn't anything not to like. Thank you for a lovely holiday.’

Mr Roots from Fordingbridge
Destination:
Switzerland and Italy
Comments:
‘We had a good holiday - trip to Pisa was a great day.’

Mr Popplewell from Chesterfield
Destination:
Majorca
Comments:
‘Everything was 100% reliable - the holiday company was efficient and I was very satisfied with Purely Creative's Customer Care. Excellent en suite room, excellent meals, excellent staff - no dislikes whatsoever. One of the best moments was watching Man Utd beat Barcelona (semi-final, 2nd leg) in a place called 'The Manchester Pub'. And I fell in love! It was a great experience, especially as I hadn't had a real holiday for several years. I look forward to going again, so I'm going to carry on playing your game cards. This experience has shown me that I can win a decent prize.’

Mr Johnson from Bromley
Destination:
Majorca
Comments:
‘Mallorca is lovely but the hotel was in a coastal resort and I hadn't taken seaside gear.’

Mrs Clarke from Romford
Destination:
Italy
Comments:
‘My friend and I have just returned from an Italian Highlights holiday. It was excellent! We enjoyed the scenery, the hotels and best of all the guided tours. We made friends with our fellow travellers and our essential tour guide, Michele. I'd recommend it to my friends and colleagues - thank you.’

Mr Greenaway from Wrexham
Destination:
Majorca
Comments:
‘Until I received the travel documents I thought it may be a con. When they arrived I was very pleased. I enjoyed the holiday - the hotel was clean and comfortable, the staff friendly and helpful. As a keen bird enthusiast, a memorable moment was seeing a hoopoo whilst bird watching. I received everything I expected and the prize exceeded my expectations.’

Mrs Chapman from Ramsgate
Destination:
Italian Highlights
Comments:
‘I play the scratchcards because they're great fun - and we love holidays. This was our third trip with Purely Creative and they and the holiday company were so helpful and considerate. Again, the holiday was amazing - awe inspiring - and the organisation is good. So comfortable, and the scenery was beautiful. Hotel first class, spotless, everything tip top. It was brilliant, we can't wait to repeat the trip. We'll keep playing, one never knows what the future may hold.’

Mr Byrne from Dublin
Destination:
Amsterdam
Comments:
‘Everything about the trip was well organised, the hotel, the meals. I think the scratchcards are great fun, it's exciting to win holidays - they are so good.’

Ms Nijjar from West Bromwich
Destination:
Tunisia 4* all-inclusive
Comments:
‘I was optimistic, friends and family have won prizes on the promotions before. I liked the style of the scratchcard and I was really excited to find I'd won a holiday. My travel documents arrived on time and I was informed promptly regarding hotel and transfers. I really liked my hotel room, with balcony overlooking the swimming pool and ocean. The entertainment was good. Visited a beautiful town called Sousse and we enjoyed a lovely meal and went to the disco. I'm going to play the scratchcards more than I did before - if you're not in it you can't win it!’

Mrs Clelland from Farnham
Destination:
Italy and Tunisia 4* all-inclusive
Comments:
‘I was very pleased with both my Purely Creative holidays. I saw some amazing sights both in Tunisia and Italy that I will remember for a long time. I was extremely pleased with the service provided by the holiday companies, always satisfied when I phoned for information.’

Dr Jones from Carlow
Destination:
Paris
Comments:
‘I played the game because I wanted to go to Paris! Memorable time spent on the Left Bank. I'll be playing more Purely Creative games in future.’

Miss Owolabi from Bolton
Destination:
Tunisia 4* all-inclusive
Comments:
‘I thought what's the point in playing - I never win anything - but the prizes appealed. When I found out I could claim a holiday award I kept thinking it was fake and there was a catch. But - when I went on the holiday - it was all PERFECT! I will definitely play Purely Creative gamecards again.’

Mrs Alexander from Bognor Regis
Destination:
Spain
Comments:
‘Best thing was the destination. I play all the time.’

Mrs Fyfe from Co. Antrim
Destination:
Tunisia 4* all-inclusive
Comments:
‘I didn't believe it was real and without a catch until I was there - a free holiday is a dream! Hotel, food, location and facilities were all good - there was a good vibe of relaxation. The hotel was on a beach with easy access to town - the best thing was that it was all inclusive. Overall the holiday was excellent - I would love to win another scratchcard trip!’

Mr Foy from Biggin Hill
Destination:
Tunisia 4* all-inclusive
Comments:
‘I was very satisfied with everything - especially the professionalism of the tour operator on arrival at destination. The holiday was much better than I expected.’

Mrs O'Sullivan from Reading
Destination:
Tunisia 4* all-inclusive
Comments:
‘I hadn't played your scratchcards before because I thought there would be a catch - but I had a great time! Purely Creative and the holiday company were helpful and friendly, the hotel room was nice, good staff. Went dancing in Sousse at the Banana Club and enjoyed the hotel Spa. I'll definitely be playing again again, it was a good experience.’

Mr Taylor from Weymouth
Destination:
Tunisia 4* all-inclusive
Comments:
‘I was really pleased to get the all expenses paid holiday. Everything was made clear by Purely Creative and I was very satisfied from my arrival at airport to my return - good reps and transfers. Accommodation was clean and tidy with good service - all the holiday was pleasant and the fellow winners I met made the holiday worthwhile. If you know anybody who does not want your offers I am pleased to take them.’

Mr Saxton from London
Destination:
Tunisia 4* all-inclusive
Comments:
‘A free holiday in a warm country was very appealing. The Purely Creative customer team kept me well informed and returned phone calls. The food was very good and it was all-inclusive - there were no extra charges. Wine, coffee, tea, bottled water were all included . After taking this holiday I'll be playing more Purely Creative games in future - I might win again!’

Mr Bendeaux from Gloucestershire
Destination:
Tunisia 4* all-inclusive
Comments:
‘Satisfied. Best aspect? The fact it was free! As it was all-inclusive, I only spent about ‘35 on gifts and tips.’

Miss Fish from Cumbria
Destination:
Tunisia 4* all-inclusive
Comments:
‘The holiday prize was excellent! Never been to Tunisia before. Flight times were good. Met up with other prize winners at the Airport and we spent a lot of time together. Went out on a catamaran to see the dolphins, and visited Tunis and Carthage.’

Mr Pollard from Bedfordshire
Destination:
Tunisia 4* all-inclusive
Comments:
‘Nice holiday - very good service. Met four people who played the same scratchcard. I will try again - I cannot wait for the next holiday.’

Mr Bowtell from Hampshire
Destination:
Tunisia 4* all-inclusive
Comments:
‘Travel company communication was good, very pleasant lady who contacted me. The accommodation was spacious and clean - I met two pleasant people who were similar winners of the prize. This was the rest I needed! I hope I might be lucky again.’

Miss Goodridge from Devon
Destination:
Tunisia 4* all-inclusive
Comments:
‘Visiting Sidi Bou Said and Carthage was wonderful. The holiday met all my expectations, I was pleased.’

Mr Gallagher from Co Donegal
Destination:
Prague
Comments:
‘I thought the tour guide was very helpful and the bus driver was very informative towards making it a most enjoyable and pleasant experience. The holiday and accommodation and service was excellent and I would look forward to travelling again some time to another holiday destination hopefully in the not too distant future.’

Ugis Laimins from Inverness
Destination:
Majorca
Comments:
‘The holiday in Majorca was amazing! And I came home to find I'd won another trip to Italy. AMAZING!!! Thanks!'

Mr and Mrs Chapman from Minster
Destination:
Italian Highlights
Comments:
‘All I can say is WOW! Everything brilliant and enjoyable. Hotel just lovely, breathtaking view from bedroom window. Fairy tale trip. This was our second amazing holiday from a Purely Creative scratchcard - and we've two more trips booked!'

Mr and Mrs Hunter from Milton Keynes
Destination:
Turkey
Comments:
‘The holiday was much better than we expected, lots to do and very clean - Purely Creative and the holiday company were very helpful - a great prize, thank you very much!'

Mr Brown from Sheffield
Destination:
Turkey
Comments:
‘We thoroughly enjoyed the holiday. Favourite part was the mud bath at Dalyan.'

Stephen Oldham from Cambridge
Destination:
Turkey
Comments:
‘ All necessary information on time, good accommodation, nice resort, great prize - thank you! You've got to be in it to win it!'

Mr Michael Delaney from Leixlip
Destination:
Mr Delaney won a holiday to Australia in our Great Australian Giveaway promotion but chose to visit his grandchildren in New Zealand instead.
Comments:
‘This is a trip of a lifetime for us to visit our daughter and son-in-law and our two grandchildren. Many thanks to Purely Creative for making it possible.’

Ms Pam Etchells from Manchester
Destination:
Mediterranean Cruise
Comments:
‘Just a quick line to say that we are having a wonderful time on our cruise!!’

Mrs Rust from Cambridgeshire
Destination:
Turkey
Comments:
‘Holiday was very relaxing - a lovely break.  Let's hope we have more to look forward to.’

Mrs Green from Nottingham
Destinations:
Italian Highlights
Comments:
‘I don’t go for the big money prizes, I just like the holidays – they take me there, look after me, show me places, feed me and bring me back – what more could I ask for! They took me to places I had never dreamed of going to but had always had an attraction towards, i.e. Venice, Pisa, Florence, Tuscany – wonderful, beautiful places. Please carry on doing holiday prizes. I told all my friends about the holidays and they all thought that no-one ever won – they are all doing their scratching now.’

Mrs Chapman from Ramsgate
Destination:
Italy for 2
Comments:
‘Regarding this amazing week - a holiday I happened to win from a scratch card.  First of all I thought, this may be a bit of a scam, but it turned out to be perfectly honest. Really nice on coach, like a village on wheels. Every one chatting, happy sounds to my ears. The coach driver and guide had great personalities. Hotel just great… charming and unique… a haven of peace… wow! We did not go on guided tours but some did. Everyone there had won the holiday. We all laughed and had a great time, a lovely group of people. All well organised – unbelievable how much we saw’

Mr D Durrans from Bristol
Destination:
Tunisia 4-star All-Inclusive
Comments:          
‘I was pleased but sceptical about how good the holiday was going to be considering that so many holidays were on offer. Everything I was told I would receive I did. I was not expecting anything to be as good as it was. Trekking through the Sahara desert on the back of a camel is something that I will never forget and something I never thought I would get the chance to do.’

Mrs Robson from Chester
Destination:
Turkey
Comments:
‘A wonderful, unexpected holiday. Lovely resort. Everything was brilliant. I had never played scratch cards before. Purely Creative are friendly and made me feel important. In the future I’d like to win another holiday!!’

Mr Barratt from Sheffield
Destination:
Malaga
Comments:
‘Excellent – extremely happy. Excellent service from leaving the UK to arriving back in the UK. Clean. Close to beaches. Good food. Good entertainment. Service overall was excellent. Everything was straightforward, easy to understand, quite simple. A lot better than we thought we would get – thank you very much. If I can win a holiday or two like the one I have just had – why not play?’

Mr J Vinall from Derby
Destination:
Tunisia 4-star All-Inclusive
Comments:
‘I was really happy. Good holiday, food was nice, plenty to do. Nice clean room and bathroom, very comfortable. Enjoyed quad biking over the dunes and going into the mountains. Only improvement would be to make the holiday longer by a week. I am a lot more likely to play Purely Creative game cards in the future since winning and being on one of their holidays, it was good. Thank you very much for your holiday.’

Ms M Czyzewska from Ruislip
Destination:
Malaga
Comments:
‘I was very satisfied with Purely Creative Customer Services. Really pleased. Best aspects of the holiday were the hotel and the local area’.

Mr Chris Hopcott from Swadlincote
Destination:         
Turkey
Comments:
‘Accommodation, destination and weather were the best things about the holiday. The people were very friendly. The whole holiday was a memorable moment. I think Purely Creative scratch cards are interesting with chances of winning a decent prize. You have to be in it to win it.’

Mr Brown from Port Talbot
Destination:
Turkey
Comments:
‘I’d thought no one who plays ever wins a prize. There were no bad things about the holiday but would have liked to stay longer than 1 week. The best thing was going on a jeep safari in the mountains. I was pleased with the holiday prize.’

Miss Stekovic from Macclesfield
Destination:
Malaga
Comments:          
‘I was satisfied and happy to be on holiday. I’m a lot more likely to play Purely Creative games in the future.’

Mrs Mickleburgh from Mansfield
Destination:
Tunisia 4-star All-inclusive
Comments:          
‘I was pleased with what I had won… very surprised at the quickness of the holiday offer. Before playing I thought it was a waste of time.  Everything was done very professionally… very caring that you received everything in time and very quick.  Hotel was very clean, staff very pleasant.  I met some very nice people who had won the same as me.’

Ms V Johnstone from Merseyside
Destination:
Italy for 2
Comments:
‘I found Purely Creative Customer Services to be really helpful anytime I rang to ask about anything regarding the holiday. We stayed in four different hotels and each one was very good standard. Every day I looked forward to the next place we were going to see and for me it just got better. I didn’t fancy all the travelling, but the coach was so comfortable and we had plenty of stops. My holiday thinking has changed a lot. My friends were not impressed when I told them about winning a holiday – they asked what the catch was.  They have changed their minds now they have seen my photos. I have told them which scratch cards to do - Purely Creative seem to be genuine.’

Mrs Kathleen Taylor from Warrington           
Destination:         
Tenerife
Comments:          
‘It was a holiday that had everything we wanted.’

Mr R.W. Picton from Greater Manchester
Destination:
Paris
Comments:          
‘Coach driver and courier were excellent – knew Paris very well.’
‘The boat trip up the Seine was great. The scenery was beautiful and commentary about all the bridges was very interesting.’

Mrs M. H. Roberts from Derbyshire
Destination:
Lloret de Mar, Spain
Comments:          
‘Whenever I have contacted them Purely Creative they have been helpful.’ ‘The drivers of the coach were helpful, courteous, good fun and good drivers. The holiday exceeded all of my expectations… class of hotel, food etc. accommodation, free excursions.’

Mr P. Williams from Cumbria
Destination:
Tenerife
Comments:
‘Everything done in a professional manner.’

Mrs Joan Dymond from Basingstoke
Destination:         
Tenerife
Comments:
‘We were very satisfied. Apartment was clean, nicely situated, quiet, transfer excellent, reps good. Purely Creative were quick & efficient. All in all we have been very pleasantly surprised with our scratchcard winning. Thumbs up for scratchcards. Now we have experienced the holidays we will continue to play.’

Mr Bendeaux from Badminton
Destination:         
Tunisia 4-star All-Inclusive
Comments:
‘Liked the destination, the accommodation, the people and the weather.  Hope to receive another holiday voucher!!’

Mrs Ann Windebank from Portsmouth
Destination:
Tenerife
Comments:
‘We were looked after throughout, the accommodation was lovely and the area was very pleasant – quiet but entertainment available if wanted.’

Mr R M Furness from Derbyshire
Destination:         
Lloret de Mar, Spain
Comments:          
‘They were very helpful with different things which came up after we received the letter for going away.  You could not have had better accommodation. There was nothing to dislike, it was first class, 5 star.’

Please note: a printed copy of the latest winners list is also available. If you contact our Customer Services department they’ll be happy to send one out to you.