IT'S what most motorists dream of while stuck in traffic jams - giving up the grind of the motorway for the glamour of the open road.

So the RAC and Virgin Holidays are offering a dream range of motoring holidays, including some of cinema's most exciting drives.

Wild at heart drivers can turn rock'n'roll dreams into reality by getting their kicks on Route 66, blaze the Thelma and Louise trail along the Grand Canyon or relive Steve McQueen's ride through San Francisco from Bullit.

Richard Branson, Chairman of Virgin Group of Companies, said: "Virgin Holidays is delighted to team up with the RAC. These classic drives will inspire the adventurer in every driver. Something I'm all for!"

There are ten Classic Global Drives in the USA, Australia and South Africa, offering unique driving in some of the world's most stunning locations.

Motorists can cruise the wide open roads of North America in a convertible, explore the beautiful game reserves of South Africa or drive a jeep into the vast open spaces of the rugged outback.

Each drive has been specially devised by experienced teams at the RAC and Virgin Holidays, who have a wealth of experience in motoring and travel.

The new partnership, a first for Virgin Holidays, is great news for travellers, who will get a unique travel experience and a high quality of customer service from two top organisations.

RAC chief executive, Neil Johnson, said: "Travel is all about excitement, adventure and getting away from it all.

"Now motorists can swap the frustration of the traffic jam for the freedom of the open road and leave the hassle behind."

Classic Global Drives start from £539 per person, based on two sharing, subject to availability, for a six night Great Pioneer Trail 'City to City' tour. This incorporates San Francisco, the Pacific Coastal Highway, Monterey, Carmel, Ventura and Los Angeles. This price includes flights from Heathrow with Virgin Atlantic Airways, car hire and accommodation.

For more information call Virgin Holiday Reservations on 01293-617181 or for a brochure 01923-618415.

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