CHINA HONG KONG, JAPAN, KOREA TIBET, SIBERIA & MONGOLIA
TAILOR-MADE INDEPENDENT AND SMALL GROUP HOLIDAYS :: 2012
Country Maps
St Petersburg Novgorod
Yaroslavl
MOSCOW
TRANS-SIBERIAN RAILWAY
RUSSIA
Yekaterinburg Omsk Irkutsk
Novosibirsk
CHINA Ulan Ude Vladivostok ULAANBAATAR
MONGOLIA BEIJING
RUSSIA
ULAANBAATAR
MONGOLIA Urumqi Turfan
NORTH KOREA
Chengde Kuqa
BEIJING
Dunhuang Jiayuguan
PYONGYANG
Kashgar
SEOUL
SOUTH KOREA
Pingyao
CHINA Xian
Louyang Zhengzhou
Nanjing
TIBET (CHINA)
Shanghai Yichang
Chengdu Shigatse
Lhasa
Hangzhou
Chongqing
Gyantse Lijiang
Guiyang
Dali Kunming
Kaili Guilin Yangshuo
TAIPEI Guangzhou
HONG KONG
Hainan Island
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TAIWAN
JAPAN TOKYO
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Temple of Heaven, Beijing
Celebrating more than 25 years of tailormade holidays and group journeys... Imagine walking along the magnificent Great Wall of China, cruising the Three Gorges on the Yangtze River or taking a pioneering trip across "The Roof of the World" in Tibet. Let us tailor design your next holiday to ancient China. For over 25 years Adventure World has been crafting holidays for New Zealanders to these diverse lands and it is with great pride that we can share our expertise with you to create your next holiday of a lifetime.
ARE YOU AN ADVENTURE WORLD TRAVELLER? Our typical traveller likes to experience unique destinations in comfort and discerning style with an emphasis on exploring local cultures. Our holidays can be custom designed to suit your own unique requirements, or you might join a group journey where you can travel with like-minded people and make new friends. Along with our own personal recommendations we can create genuine quality holidays perfectly suited for you.
IT’S YOUR HOLIDAY… Everyone is unique, and the same can be said when it comes to holiday planning. Of course, each destination has its must-see essentials but how you wish to experience them is an entirely different matter. At Adventure World we can create holiday itineraries to match your exact requirements. From authentic charming properties to luxurious accommodation, the choice is yours.
OUR EXPERIENCE With over thirty years of travel experience, first hand destination knowledge and impeccable attention to detail takes the guess work out of holiday planning. We are constantly sourcing new ‘hand-picked’ travel options to take you on the paths less travelled for a truly personal and rewarding holiday experience.
AIRLINE PARTNERS 4 Brochure Guide 5 CHINA & TIBET 10-43 SMALL GROUP JOURNEYS 10-15 Highlights of China 10 Classic China 11 Yangtze and Panda Adventure 12 Emperor’s China 13 Treasures of the Yangtze 14 China, Beyond The Wall 15 CHINA INDEPENDENT TOURS 16-20 China Adventure 16 China Adventure Upgrade 17 Cameo China 18 Middle Kingdom 19 Flavours of China & Ancient North China 20 CHINA PRIVATE TOURS 21-25 China Experience 21 Shanghai Surprise & Zhouzhuang 21 Hangzhou & Wuzhen 22 Nanjing & Suzhou 22 Hidden China 23 Yunnan Encounter & Ethnic Explorer 24 The Silk Road 25 YANGTZE RIVER CRUISING 26-30 Beijing Hotels 31-33 Beijing Tours and Sightseeing 34 Shanghai Hotels Tours & Sightseeing 35-37 Xian Hotels, Tours & Sightseeing 38 Guilin Hotels, Tours & Sightseeing 39 Chengdu Hotels, Tours & Sightseeing 40-41 TIBET 42-43 HONG KONG & MACAU 44-51 Hong Kong Sightseeing 46 Hong Kong Hotels 47-49 Macau Hotels, Tours & Sightseeing 50-51 JAPAN 52-62 Independent Tours 52-57 Tokyo Hotels & Sightseeing 58-59 Japan Rail Pass 59 Kyoto Hotels & Sightseeing 60 Osaka Hotels & Sightseeing 61 Regional Japan Hotels & Sightseeing 62 KOREA 63-66 Korea Tours 64-68 Seoul Hotels & Sightseeing 65-66 Regional Hotels 69 Korea Rail Pass 69 SIBERIA & MONGOLIA 70-73 Independent Tours 71-72 Group Tour 73 RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL 74 BOOKING CONDITIONS 75 adventureworld.co.nz
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Air New Zealand and China
the best of both worlds There’s a lot more to China than meets the eye. You’ll be amazed by vibrant Shanghai, with its ultramodern architecture and picturesque historic suburbs. It offers a wide array of shopping, cuisine and pampering options for everyone.
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Air New Zealand’s current flight schedule to China: · Four times a week to Shanghai · Twice a week to Beijing · Daily flights to Hong Kong
Beijing is home to ancient treasures like the Great Wall, the Hutongs and the breathtaking Forbidden City, a trip here is a once in a lifetime experience.
Join Air New Zealand’s Airpoints™ programme and earn Airpoints™ Dollars on your next flight to China .
For an exhilarating mix of eastern and western cultures, visit the cosmopolitan metropolis of Hong Kong.
To find out more about Air New Zealand’s award winning product & services, visit airnewzealand.co.nz/china
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The Great Wall of China Caption
Trusted travel with the destination experts Our brochure is intended to act as your holiday planning guide. It features our most popular itineraries and accommodation, tried and tested by our expert team. The majority of our featured journeys are adaptable to allow you to add excursions, extra days or modify your itinerary to visit an area of particular interest.
Brochure Guide PRICES The prices in this brochure are intended as a guide only. All prices are in New Zealand dollars based on a twin share per person rate and low season travel. Ask your travel agent or call us to enquire about the best pricing specific to your travel dates.
TOUR TYPE Our itineraries offer you the flexibility to choose the way you want to travel. We give you the option of customising your holiday to travel on one of your own individual tours, or join one of our selected group departures.
HOTEL GRADING To assist in your selection of a property or tour that best suits your requirements, Adventure World has classified the accommodation with our own rating as a guide.
Long Gallery, Summer Palace
Comfortable with limited facilities.
Standard properties with good facilities.
Offering above average to very good, dependable facilities.
A leading hotel with a full range of facilities and exceptional service.
+
T hese hotels not only offer exceptional service but also have a unique feature or character that sets them apart.
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CountryOverview China Tour Accommodation Type
China Eagerly assuming its place among the world’s top travel destinations, China is an epic adventure. From the wide open and empty panoramas of Tibet to cosmopolitan Shanghai, from the volcanic dishes of Sìchuán to beer by the bag in seaside Quingdao, a journey through this colossus of a country is a mesmerising encounter with the most populous, perhaps most culturally idiosyncratic nation on earth.
A vast and symmetrical metropolis, Beijing is the orderly seat of the communist political power in China, so its architecture traces each and every mood swing from 1949 to the present, from felled hútòng (narrow alleys) to huge underground bomb shelters scooped out during the paranoid 1970s. One moment you are sizing up a blank Soviet-style monument, the next you spot a vast, shimmering tower rising up from the freshly turned soil. To the west, Yunnan has some of the most magical and diverse scenery in all of China. There are endless trekking opportunities in the south’s tropical rainforests, and in the north, snow-capped Tibetan peaks hide dozens of tiny villages and temples rarely visited. Yunnan is also home to a third of all China's ethnic minorities (nearly 50% of the province is non-Han) and despite the best government efforts, numerous pockets of the province have successfully resisted Han influence and exhibit strong local identities. Even Kunming, the provincial capital, has a flavour that seems more than half a world away from Beijing. Despite the rapid economic growth, Kunming ‘Spring City, ’ retains an individuality that has earned it a reputation for being one of the more cosmopolitan and relaxed cities in the southwest. Kashgar is the end of China's New Frontier, itself the end of China. The first intrepid Chinese traders and emissaries must have envisioned themselves at the end of the earth as they approached this readymade oasis for the first time, millennia ago. (Considering it’s 1000km through a desert furnace and its varmint brigands from the site of modern Urumqi, 6
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Chengde
Turfan
BEIJING Dunhuang
Kashgar
Jiayuguan
Pingyao
Zhengshou
CHINA
TIBET (CHINA)
Curator of the world’s oldest continuous civilisation, China will have you bumping into history at every turn. But it’s not just a museum of imperial relics: the frisson of development that has left China’s coastline glittering with some of the world’s most up-to-the-minute cities propels the land on with a forward-thinking dynamism. Shanghai is the most dynamic city in the world’s fastest- changing nation. It is an exhilarating, ever-morphing metropolis that isn’t just living China’s dream, but is setting the pace for the rest of the world. Once a playground for foreign adventurers and socialites, Shanghai is now where home-grown tycoons build soaring monuments to capitalism and the locals party all night. But despite a past as evocative as it is notorious, Shanghai has dispensed with the rear-view mirror, pushed the pedal to the floor and is roaring towards its imagined future so fast that keeping up is almost impossible.
Urumqi
Kuqa
Shigatse
Xian
Nanjing Shanghai Yichang Hangzhou
Chengdu
Lhasa
Louyang
Chongqing
Gyantse Lijiang
Kaili
Guiyang Dali Kunming
Guilin Yangshuo Guangzhou
HONG KONG
AVERAGE MAXIMUM TEMPERATURE (°C) – based on Beijing. JAN
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they were some brave souls.) Its strategic crossroads location has seen it at the epicentre of cultural conflict and cooperation for over two millennia. The sheer diversity of China’s terrain takes you from noisy cities fizzing with energy to isolated mountain-top Ming-Dynasty villages where you can hear a pin drop.
WHEN TO GO Travel to China is possible year-round, as long as you’re prepared for what the season can throw at you. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to early November) can be the best time to be on the road, as you avoid the heat of summer (June to August) and chill of winter (November to February/March). Autumn in Beijing, for example, is particularly pleasant, as are early spring and autumn in Hong Kong. Summer is the busiest tourist season, and getting around and finding accommodation during the peak summer can be draining. North China is hot and largely dry in summer, especially in the baking northwest (but Beijing is also uncomfortable). Winter is the low season (except for Hainan) and can be the quietest time of year, but while Hong Kong in winter is comfortably nippy, north China is a frozen expanse, especially in the northeast, northwest and Inner Mongolia. Major public holidays can make travel difficult, and sights can be crammed with vacating Chinese. Manoeuvring around China with 1.3 billion others at Chinese New Year can be daunting, but you also get to see the country at its most colourful and entertaining.
Content courtesy of Lonely Planet.
Tour Accommodation Overview Type Country China
Sights not to be missed... FORBIDDEN CITY It’s not forbidden and it’s not a city, but it is the best-preserved collection of imperial architecture in China. The Forbidden City, so called because it was off limits for 500 years, is the largest and best-preserved cluster of China's ancient buildings.
TERRACOTTA WARRIORS One of China's top historical sights, the 2000-year-old Terracotta Army remains a stunningly well preserved, perpetually vigilant force standing guard over an ancient imperial necropolis. The 6000 terracotta figures of warriors and horses face east in a rectangular battle array.
GREAT WALL OF CHINA The construction of the ‘original’ wall began over 2000 years ago during the Qin Dynasty. Separate walls that had been constructed by independent kingdoms to keep out marauding nomads were linked together.
YUNNAN PROVINCE Yúnnán has some of the most magical and diverse scenery in all of China. There are endless trekking opportunities in the south’s tropical rainforests, and in the north, snow-capped Tibetan peaks hide dozens of tiny villages and temples rarely visited.
YANGTZE RIVER Experience a memorable river cruise along the lifeline of China’s waterways; the great Yangtze River. The most famous part of this route is the sensational Three Gorges area between Chongqing and Yichang.
LI RIVER Succumb to the seductive, other-worldy panoramas of this slowmoving river with its profusion of karst peaks. The river winds through some truly spectacular limestone formations and a slow boat cruise on the shimmering Li River to Yangshuo is a must.
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Travel Styles SMALL GROUP JOURNEYS
PRIVATE TOURS
Small is beautiful, and allows you time to savour the wonderful cultural
For the ultimate travel experience, choose from our selection of Private Tours where it is all about you!
experiences you will have at a more enjoyable pace, in comfortable 3*, 4 and 4.5 star hotels and 4 or 5 star Yangtze River cruises. You will be travelling with like-minded people, which means you have the opportunity to make new friends on tour as well as at your destination. Small groups allow us to take you off the beaten track while including not only the major highlights but some unique sites and hidden treasures as well. Our tours offer fantastic value for money; see the individual itineraries in this brochure for the full list of inclusions. *In regional and more remote locations the accommodation may be more simple or the best available.
GROUP TOURS Our mid size group tours are a little different to our small group journeys. The maximum group size is 30. They are fully inclusive, except for a few meals so you have some say in where and what you eat. They operate at a more relaxed pace, use quality 4 and 4.5 star properties and 5 star Yangtze River cruises. They are managed by professional tour leaders who are experts on Chinese culture and history. Tipping is included so you can relax knowing this important function is being managed appropriately. Finally, these tours operate at the best time of year, so you won't be travelling in blistering heat or having to rug up
You can adjust the itineraries to suit your plans and needs, and choose from quality 3, 4 or 5 star properties with your own private guides to add that personal touch. Our local guides will be there to transfer you from the airport or train station to your hotel and back, will help with orientation, and escort you on your excursions to explain the unique cultural and historical facts. In addition, their intimate knowledge of their city and town or area will afford you great opportunities to experience unique elements that only a ‘local’ can know.
FAMILY ADVENTURES Family tours offer a rewarding and educational experience for the whole family. Based on our 'grown-up' small group journeys but slowed down so they suit children of all ages (min 6 years). Your journey will be fully supported by our very knowledgeable local representatives and passionate local guides and tour leaders. The adventure starts from the moment your plane touches down. Full of child friendly activities, accommodation and transport, every day will be an unforgettable experience that will last a lifetime. Contact Adventure World for details.
against Siberian winds.
VOLUNTEER ADVENTURES
INDEPENDENT
Get your hands dirty as you immerse yourself in the local culture and help make a significant contribution to a local project.
These itineraries offer the flexibility to mix and match from a selection of individual packages or short group tours, excursions, day trips, transfers (that may or may not include other participants) with well researched 3, 4 and 5 star properties. Think of these ‘Independent’ itineraries as the blank canvas from which you can build your own unique holiday experience. 8
Li River, Yangshuo
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When combined with a journey of discovery through the major highlights of the country and an enriching 4 star Yangtze River cruise, you have the perfect volunteer experience. Best of all, you will be giving something back, while providing a life changing experience you will never forget. See the Yangtze and Panda Adventure tour on page 12.
Huangshan (Yellow Mountain)
RAIL JOURNEYS Travel to a different tune and consider rail. China has an extensive rail network covering mainland China and Tibet. The trains are comfortable, safe and a convenient way to travel. On longer overnight journeys, good quality sleeper accommodation with full bedding is provided. The following configurations are offered: • Deluxe sleeper: two berth with bedding and private facilities, available on trunk routes only. • Soft Sleeper: four berth compartments with bedding and shared facilities at the end of each carriage.
TRANS MONGOLIAN & TRANS SIBERIAN RAILWAY – STANDARD OR PREMIUM/DELUXE The Trans Siberian and Mongolian Railways run year round with the majority of people travelling between May and September when the weather is warmer and daylight hours longer. For one of the world’s greatest adventures, choose from a Group or Independent adventure at the Standard or Premium & Deluxe level. These fantastic journeys operate in either direction; Asia to Europe or Europe to Asia. See page 70.
• Hard Sleeper: six berth compartments with bedding and shared facilities – may be all that is available on some remote train journeys. You will have a unique opportunity to meet the locals and learn more about their every day lives as you watch the spectacular scenery pass by your window.
YANGTZE RIVER CRUISING Enjoy a remarkable journey along China’s most significant waterway, taking in the amazing cultural, historical and scenic sights en-route. You will travel in style on a comfortable 5 star purpose build vessel, as you cruise though the famous Three Gorges of the Yangtze River and participate in regular shore excursions. A Cruise Director will look after your daily activities, as you relax in your comfortable outside cabin with picture windows, private bathroom and balcony. You are invited to the Captain's cocktail party one evening, and sumptuous buffet breakfasts, lunches and elegant Chinese dinners are served daily. On board activities include lectures on Chinese history and culture, Tai Chi lessons and calligraphy demonstrations. You can join a Yangtze River cruise as a stand alone trip (see pages 2630), or as part of a group or independent tour. Exceptions include the 'Classic China', 'Yangtze and Panda Adventure' and 'Treasures of the Yangtze' small group journeys (pages 11, 12 & 14) which utilise 4 star river cruises, with similar facilities, inclusions and regular on-shore excursions. Summer Palace
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China Country Our Small Small Tour Group Group Accommodation Hotels Journeys Journey ChinaType Summer Palace, Beijing
HIGHLIGHTS OF CHINA 9 Days/8 Nights from $1326*
SMALL GROUP TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
• The Great Wall Includes All transfers, six nights hotel accommodation, two overnight soft sleeper trains, meals as indicated, transportation and sightseeing as specified including entrance fees, local English speaking guides in each city and a dedicated tour leader when there are six or more participants.
• Tiananmen Square and Gate • Forbidden City • Summer Palace • Terracotta Warriors • Wild Goose Pagoda & Baxian Gong Temple
"A journey that explores the jewels in China's crown. Beijing, the spiritual and cultural heart, Xian with its spectacular Terracotta Warriors and China's commercial power house, Shanghai."
• Grand Mosque & Xian city walls • Zhujiajiao water town • Shanghai Acrobats • Yu Garden Departs Beijing 2012: 11 Feb, 31 Mar, 21 Apr, 12 May, 26 May, 16 Jun, 25 Jun, 08 Sep, 13 Oct, 27 Oct Departs Beijing 2013: 23 Feb, 23 Mar, 20 Apr, 11 May, 08 Jun Note: Maximum group size is 16.
Day 7: Shanghai Travel to the stunning water town of Zhujiajiao. Established 1700 years ago Zhujiajiao has many well preserved examples of Ming (13681644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasty houses and architecture. Return to Shanghai to see the Shanghai Acrobats. B L D Day 8: Shanghai Free day to discover more of Shanghai, the commercial and financial hub of China and a shopping paradise. B
Day 1: Beijing On arrival, transfer to your hotel. Day 2: Beijing After breakfast, a full day excursion to the Great Wall of China at Gubeikou. Here the wall stretches for more than 40 km and rates highly as an architectural achievement. This evening enjoy a traditional Peking Duck dinner. B D
Day 9: Shanghai Transfer to the airport for the flight home.
B
Day 3: Beijing – Xian Take a walk around Tiananmen Square and the Gate, followed by the Forbidden City which for more than 500 years was the political and ceremonial centre of the country. This afternoon visit the Summer Palace. This evening take a comfortable overnight soft sleeper train to Xian. B L D Day 4: Xian A morning walking tour of central Xian. Visit the Grand Mosque and the ancient city walls.
Great Wall BEIJING
CHINA
Xian Shanghai Zhujiajiao
Day 5: Xian – Shanghai A tour highlight today, visit the Terracotta Warriors which were buried more than 2000 years ago and only discovered in 1974. Also visit the Buddhist Wild Goose Pagoda and Taoist Baxian Gong temple to learn more about these fascinating religions. This evening enjoy a dumpling banquet before boarding the overnight sleeper train service to Shanghai. B L D Day 6: Shanghai A half day city tour which includes People's Square, Urban Planning Museum and a stroll along the Bund. Balance of the day at leisure. L
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* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
Tour Accommodation Small Group Journey Type Country China
Suzhou Canals
"All of China's highlights with a relaxing Yangtze River cruise through the Three Gorges. Culture, countryside and cosmopolitan cities."
CLASSIC CHINA 14 Days/13 Nights from $3031*
Includes All transfers, nine nights hotel accommodation, three night Yangtze River cruise, one overnight soft sleeper train, meals as indicated, domestic flights, transportation and sightseeing as specified including entrance fees, local English speaking guides in each city and a dedicated tour leader when six or more participants travel.
SMALL GROUP TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • Shanghai tour and Acrobats • Easy Bike ride and bamboo rafting • Yangshuo's karst mountains • Yangtze cruise through the Three Gorges • Xian and the Terracotta Warriors • Grand Mosque & Xian city walls • Tiananmen Square and Gate • Forbidden City • Great Wall of China Departs Beijing 2012: 30 Mar, 27 Apr, 25 May, 15 Jun, 14 Sep, 12 Oct, 26 Oct
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Day 1: Shanghai Transfer to the hotel on arrival. Day at leisure to start exploring Shanghai. Day 2: Shanghai A morning Shanghai city tour to the Shanghai and Urban Planning Museums, People's Square and Jinmao Tower. This evening stroll along the Bund and witness the incredible Shanghai Acrobats. B Day 3: Suzhou Travel to the ancient water town of Suzhou, and visit Zhouzhuang en-route. A walking trip to the Grand Canal, then visit the Humble Administrator's Garden and see the Masters of the Nets evening show. B
Departs Beijing 2013: 29 Mar, 19 Apr, 24 May, 14 Jun
Day 4: Yangshuo Fly to Guilin and transfer to Yangshuo.
Note: Maximum group size is 16.
Day 5: Yangshuo Ride bikes along small tracks past stunning rice paddies. Enjoy an easy bamboo rafting trip. B
B
Day 10: Xian A highlight today, visit the Terracotta Warriors followed by a walking tour of the Grand Mosque and Xian city walls. Tonight enjoy a traditional dumpling banquet. D Day 11: Xian – Beijing Free day to explore ancient Xian. This evening join the overnight soft sleeper train to Beijing. B Day 12: Beijing Visit Tiananmen Square and Gate and the spectacular Forbidden City with its magnificent marble courtyards and ornate pavilions. The afternoon is free to explore. Day 13: Beijing Travel north to The Great Wall to Gubeikou. This evening enjoy a traditional Peking Duck dinner. B D Day 14: Beijing Transfer to the airport for the flight home.
B
Day 6: Cruise – Chongqing Fly to Chongqing followed by a half-day city tour to the 3 Gorge Museum, Eling Park and local market (time permitting) before joining the Yangtze River cruise this evening. B Day 7: Cruise – Fengdu Shore excursion at Fengdu to visit Ghost City. Forbidden City, Beijing
B
L
D
Day 8: Cruise – Daning River, Xiling Gorge, ship locks This excursion takes us up a tributary on a small vessel to see the changes resulting from the dam project. Later enter the Xiling Gorge, the longest (65 km), and the deepest of the Three Gorges. This evening sail through the Three Gorges ship locks. B L D Day 9: Yichang – Xian Morning visit to the Three Gorges Dam followed by a tour of Yichang. Fly to Xian transfer to the hotel on arrival. B * All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
Wild Goose Pagoda, Xian
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Country China Small TourGroup Accommodation Journey Type YANGTZE AND PANDA ADVENTURE 15 Days/14 Nights from $3180*
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Includes All transfers, nine nights hotel accommodation, three nights Yangtze River cruise, two overnight soft sleeper trains, meals as indicated, domestic flights, transportation and sightseeing as specified including entrance fees, local English speaking guide in each city and a dedicated tour leader when six or more participants travel.
SMALL GROUP TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
habits and diets. There is no doubt this will be a life changing and rewarding experience, and will help preserve these wonderful creatures for the future.
"A symbol of endangered species throughout the world the Giant Panda is iconic. A rare opportunity to get up close and personal with the Pandas while assisting the keepers and staff at the Bifengxia Panda Base. An opportunity to give something back while creating memories that will last a life time."
Day 10: Chengdu – Chongqing Return to Chendgu and join the soft class train to Chongqing. On arrival enjoy a half day city tour to the Three Gorges Museum, Eling Park and the local markets, if time permits. Join the Yangtze River cruise this evening. B Day 11: Cruise – Fengdu Shore excursion, Fengdu & Ghost City.
• The Great Wall at Gubeikou • Tiananmen Square and Gate • Forbidden City • Summer Palace • Terracotta Warriors • Wild Goose Pagoda and Baxian Gong Temple • Three night volunteer experience at the Bifengxia Panda Base • Chongqing City Tour; Three Gorges Museum and Eling Park • Yangtze River cruise through the Three Gorges. • Three Gorges Dam • Yichang city tour • Shanghai city tour; Urban Planners Museum, Yu Gardens and the Bund Departs Beijing 2012: 31 Mar, 21 Apr, 12 May, 16 Jun, 08 Sep, 13 Oct, 27 Oct Departs Beijing 2013: 23 Mar, 20 Apr, 11 May, 08 Jun Note: Maximum group size is 14.
B
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Day 12: Cruise – Daning River, Xiling Gorge, ship locks This excursion takes us up a tributary on a small vessel to see the changes resulting from the dam project.
Day 1: Beijing Transfer to the hotel on arrival. Day 2: Beijing A full day excursion to see the Great Wall of China at Gubeikou. This evening enjoy a traditional Peking Duck dinner. B D Day 3: Beijing – Xian Morning walk through Tiananmen Square and the Gate, followed by the Forbidden City. Later visit the Summer Palace. The new Summer Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This evening join a comfortable overnight soft sleeper train to Xian. B Day 4: Xian Visit the Terracotta Warriors buried more than 2000 years ago. The afternoon is free to relax or continue exploring this ancient town. This evening enjoy a dumpling banquet. D Day 5: Xian Visit the Buddhist Wild Goose Pagoda and Taoist Baxian Gong temple to learn more about these fascinating religions. This evening board the overnight soft sleeper train to Chengdu. B
Later enter Xiling Gorge, the longest (65 kms), and deepest of the Three Gorges. This evening sail through the Three Gorges ship locks. B L D Day 13: Yichang – Shanghai Morning visit to the Three Gorges Dam followed by a tour of Yichang. Transfer to the airport for the flight to Shanghai. Transfer to hotel on arrival. B Day 14: Shanghai This afternoon enjoy a city tour - visit the Shanghai Urban Planners Museum and the beautiful Yu Garden, with the option to wander along the Bund. B Day 15: Shanghai Free time until your airport transfer.
B
Day 6: Chengdu A morning tour of the Jinsha Ruins Museum. These ruins represent one of the most important archaeological finds since the Terracotta warriors. Day 7: Bifengxia Panda Base Drive to Bifengxia Panda Base.
Days 8-9: Bifengxia Panda Base Bifengxia Panda Base sits in a beautiful mountain area just outside Ya’an and about 150 kms from Chengdu. The Base is home to a conservation and research centre looking after several dozen pandas at any time.
MONGOLIA
Great Wall BEIJING
CHINA
Xian TIBET (CHINA)
PANDA CENTRE
Chengdu
Shanghai Yichang Chongqing
B
After a briefing and allocation of protective clothing start working with and assisting the keepers and local staff. The work is varied and could include assisting with everyday duties such as cleaning pens and yards, feeding and recording statistics. The majority of the work happens in the mornings, so there is plenty of free time to learn more about the Pandas habitat, mating
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Forbidden City, Beijing
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
Tour Accommodation Small Group Journey Type Country China
Summer Palace, Beijing
SMALL GROUP TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • Temple of Heaven • Tiananmen Square and Gate • Forbidden City • The Great Wall at Mutianyu & 798 Art Zone
EMPEROR’S CHINA 10 Days/9 Nights from $3382*
Includes All transfers in China, nine nights hotel accommodation, meals as indicated, domestic economy flights, transportation and sightseeing as specified including entrance fees, tips and gratuities, local English speaking guides in each city and a dedicated tour leader when there are six or more participants.
• See the Birds Nest and Water Cube built for the 2008 Olympics • Summer Palace • Luoyang and Longmen Grottoes • Nansuo village experience • Tang Art Museum
"Discover China's spiritual, historical and cultural highlights in Beijing and Xian, then see her embrace global commerce in vibrant Shanghai."
• Grand Mosque and Xian city walls • Terracotta Warriors • Wild Goose Pagoda & Baxian Gong temple • Tang Dynasty dinner and show • Shanghai - People's Square, Urban Planners Museum and acrobats • Zhouzhuang water town Departs Beijing 2012: 18 Feb, 31 Mar, 14 Apr, 12 May, 09 Jun, 01 Sep, 13 Oct, 27 Oct Departs Beijing 2013: 23 Feb, 16 Mar, 30 Mar, 27 Apr, 25 May, 08 Jun Note: Maximum group size is 12.
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Day 1: Beijing On arrival, transfer to your hotel. Day 2: Beijing A morning tour of Temple of Heaven followed by Tiananmen Square. After lunch visit the spectacular Forbidden City. This evening enjoy a Peking duck dinner. B L D
Day 8: Xian – Shanghai Fly to cosmopolitan Shanghai. Enjoy an afternoon city tour; visit People’s Square and the Shanghai and Urban Planning Museum’s. Rest of the day is free to explore, or perhaps wander through the Bund. B L Day 9: Zhouzhuang – Shanghai Today we travel to the stunning water town of Zhouzhuang. Called the 'Venice of the East', this town is one of the best preserved water towns in China with a 900 year old history. Enjoy the Shanghai Acrobat’s this evening. B L D Day 10: Shanghai Free time until the airport transfer.
B
Day 3: Beijing Travel north of Beijing to see the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall of China. It is one of the best preserved sections of the Wall and served as the northern defense of Beijing and the Imperial Tombs. On the return journey see the 798 Art Zone. B L Day 4: Beijing – Zhengzhou A short excursion to see (but not enter) the Birds Nest and Water Cube buildings, followed by the UNESCO World Heritage Summer Palace. Later fly to Zhengzhou. On arrival transfer to your hotel. B L D Day 5: Zhengzhou – Luoyang – Xian The Longmen Grottoes were first carved in 493 A.D. With 100,000 Buddhist sculptures and over 3,600 stone tablets it is one of the best Buddhist treasures in China. Travel by train to Xian. Transfer to your hotel. B L D
Great Wall BEIJING
CHINA
Luoyang Xian
Zhengzhou LONGMEN GROTTOES
Shanghai Zhouzhuang
Day 6: Xian Interesting Nansuo Village excursion in Huxian County. Return to Xian and visit the Tang Art Museum. Then visit the Grand Mosque and ancient Xian city walls. B L D Day 7: Xian A highlight today, visit the famous Terracotta Warriors which were buried more than 2000 years ago to guard the tomb of the first emperor Qinshihuang. After lunch visit Wild Goose Pagoda and Baxina Gong temple. This evening enjoy the Tang Dynasty Show with a traditional dumpling dinner. B L D
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
Zhoushuang canals
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China
Small Group Journey TREASURES OF THE YANGTZE 17 Days/16 Nights from $3839*
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Includes Transfers in China, ten nights hotel accommodation, six nights Yangtze cruise, meals as indicated, economy domestic flights, transportation and sightseeing as specified, entrance fees, tips and gratuities (other than on the Yangtze cruise), local English speaking guides in each city and a dedicated tour leader (days 3 to 8 only) when there are six or more participants. Days 9 to 18 of this tour are independent, however a cruise Director will manage your daily activities and excursions while on the 7 day cruise. Daning River with its smaller gorges. (Please note: An alternative but similar excursion may be substituted by the River Authority). The middle gorge is best known for twelve unique peaks; six line the north side of the river and six staggered peaks stand to the south. Sail though the dam ship locks. B L D
“Combines the iconic highlights of Beijing and Xian with a stunning 5 star seven day Yangtze cruise from the famous Three Gorges to cosmopolitan Shanghai.”
Summer Palace
SMALL GROUP TOUR Day 1: Beijing Transfer to the Grand Gongda Jianguo Hotel. Day at leisure.
HIGHLIGHTS • Temple of Heaven • Tiananmen Square and Gate • Forbidden City • The Great Wall at Mutianyu • See the Olympic, Birds Nest and Water Cube buildings • Summer Palace • Luoyang and Longmen Grottoes • Tang Art Museum • Grand Mosque and Xian city walls • Terracotta Warriors • Wild Goose Pagoda & Baxian Gong temple • Tang Dynasty dinner and show • Chongqing tour, Three Gorges Museum and Goose Neck Park • Yangtze River cruise, all meals and excursions Departs Beijing 2012: 31 Mar, 14 Apr, 12 May, 09 Jun, 01 Sep, 13 Oct, 27 Oct Departs Beijing 2013: 16 Mar, 30 Mar, 27 Apr, 25 May, 08 Jun Note: Maximum group size is 16.
Day 2: Beijing A morning tour of the Temple of Heaven followed by Tiananmen Square. After lunch visit the spectacular Forbidden City. This evening enjoy a Peking duck dinner. B L D Day 3: Beijing Today travel north of Beijing to see the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall of China. On the return journey see the 798 Art Zone. B L Day 4: Beijing – Zhengzhou A short excursion to see (but not enter) the 2008 Olympic Games Birds Nest and Water Cube buildings, followed by the UNESCO World Heritage Summer Palace. Later fly to Zhengzhou. On arrival transfer to your hotel. B
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Day 12: Cruise – Three Gorges Dam Morning visit to the Three Gorges Dam. Re-board the ship at Yichang dock. B L Day 13: Cruise – Wuhan Visit the Hubei Provincial Museum.
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Day 14: Cruise – Huangshan A full-day shore excursion to Huangshan (Yellow Mountain - one of China’s most famous mountain ranges). B L D Day 15: Cruise – Nanjing A full day tour of Nanjing including Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum and a Fuzi Miao, a Qing Dynasty style bazaar surrounding a Temple dedicated to Confucius. Evening departure for Shanghai. B L D Day 16: Shanghai Arrive Shanghai and transfer to your hotel. Day 17: Shanghai Transfer to the airport for the flight home.
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Day 5: Zhengzhou – Luoyang – Xian Drive to the Longmen Grottoes via Luoyang. The 17.14 metre-high stone Buddha statue is praised as Venus of the east. Travel by China's bullet train to Xian. Transfer to your hotel. B
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Day 6: Xian Nansuo Village excursion to see rural China. Return to Xian to see the Tang Art Museum followed by the Grand Mosque and ancient Xian city walls. B L D Day 7: Xian A highlight today, visit the famous Terracotta Warriors. After lunch visit Wild Goose Pagoda and Baxian Gong. This evening enjoy the Tang Dynasty dinner and show. B L D Day 8: Chongqing Fly to Chongqing, transfer to your hotel.
Great Wall BEIJING
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Day 9: Chongqing Visit the Three Gorges Museum, Goose Neck Park, the zoo with pandas and Ciqikou. B L
CHINA Xian LONGMEN GROTTOES
Zhengzhou Zhujiajiao Nanjing
Wuhan
Chongqing
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Shanghai
Day 10: Cruise – Fengdu Transfer to the cruise ship. An afternoon shore excursion to Fengdu. Visit either the Ghost City or relocation village. B L D Day 11: Cruise – Three Gorges – Daning River ‘Small Gorges’ – ship locks Enter the Three Gorges, one of nature’s most extraordinary sculptures. After the first gorge there is an excursion by smaller boat up the
Yellow Mountain
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
Tour Accommodation Group Type Tour Country China CHINA, BEYOND THE WALL 18 Days/17 Nights from $4559*
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Includes Private coach transport, all transfers, twelve nights hotel accommodation, 4 nights Yangtze River cruise, soft overnight sleeper train, economy domestic flights, meals as indicated, sightseeing as specified including entrance fees, tips & gratuities, tour escort, local English speaking guides and driver.
Foyer, Victoria Anna cruiser
GROUP TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • Beijing - city tour, Lama Temple, Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Great Wall of China, Temple of Heaven and hutong's • Xian - Great Mosque, old city walls, Historical Museum, Terracotta Warriors and Wild Goose Pagoda • Yangtze River cruise - all meals, activities and exciting daily shore excursions • Chengdu - Panda Sanctuary and Jinsha Ruins Museum • Longsheng and its ethic minorities • Yangshuo karst mountain scenery and Li River cruise • Shanghai - city tour • Zhujiajio water town and Children's Palace
“Enjoy a relaxing Yangtze River cruise through the Three Gorges, visit Giant Pandas and enjoy Shanghai where old embraces new.” Day 1: Beijing On arrival transfer to the hotel. Afternoon tour includes the Lama Temple with its beautifully decorated archways. A delicious Traditional Peking duck dinner tonight. L D
Departs Beijing 2013: 29 Mar, 12 Apr, 10 May, 31 May Note: Group size is 15 to 30 passengers.
Day 10: Yangtze River Cruise Shore excursion to Fengdu. B
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Day 11: Chongqing – Chengdu Disembark this morning for a short city tour then join the train to Chengdu. B L D Day 12: Chengdu – Guilin Panda Breeding and Research Centre this morning. Then visit the Jinsha Ruins Museum and Jinli old town. Fly to Guilin. B L D
Day 2: Beijing The city tour continues - First cross Tiananmen Square past the Great Wall then to the former imperial palace - the Forbidden City. B L
Day 13: Guilin Coach to Longsheng with its colourful ethnic minorities. Tonight enjoy a Cormorant fishing show then dinner. B L D
Day 3: Beijing Full day tour to the Great Wall. It stretches over 6500km and roughly delineates the southern edge of Mongolia. B L D
Day 14: Guilin – Yangshuo Enjoy a Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo with gorgeous karst peaks backdrop. Enjoy lunch on the boat. Evening is at leisure. B L
Day 4: Beijing – Xian Morning tour to the Temple of Heaven and old hutong's. Board the overnight soft sleeper train to Xian. B L D
Day 15: Yangshuo – Guilin – Shanghai Morning free, then fly to Shanghai. B L
Day 5: Xian Tour of the old city and Great Mosque. Later visit the Bell Tower for the stunning view. Tonight a Tang Dynasty dinner and show. B L D Day 6: Xian Start with the Terracotta Warriors. Later Xian's city walls and Wild Goose Pagoda. B L D
Departs Beijing 2012: 14 Sep
Day 9: Yangtze River Cruise Excursions to Daning River, Small Gorges. Sail through Wu and Qutang Gorge's. B L D
Day 7: Xian – Wuhan – Yichang Fly to Wuhan. Visit the Jingzhou Museum. Board the river cruiser after dinner. B L D
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Day 16: Shanghai Tour Shanghai Museum, Yu Garden and Jade Buddha Temple. Stroll the Bund. B L Day 17: Shanghai Visit the historic town of Zhujiajio, the Venice of China. Visit the Children's Palace. See Shanghai's famous acrobats, enjoy a farewell dinner. B L D Day 18: Shanghai Transfer to the airport for the flight home.
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Day 8: Yangtze River Cruise Visit the Three Gorges Dam site and sail through the shiplocks. B L D
Great Wall BEIJING
CHINA Xian LONGMEN GROTTOES
Chengdu
Yichang
Zhujiajiao Nanjing
Wuhan
Shanghai
Chongqing Guilin Yangshuo
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
Great Wall of China
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15
China
Independent Tour
Great Wall of China
"Soak up China’s ancient history in Beijing, Xian and cosmopolitan Shanghai.” Shanghai evening skyline
CHINA ADVENTURE 8 Days/7 Nights from $1756*
Includes 4 berth sleeper train compartment Beijing/Xian, economy class airfare Xian/Shanghai, accommodation, meals, transfers and sightseeing as specified and English-speaking local guides. The perfect introduction to the Middle Kingdom, this tour accentuates China’s truly amazing achievements. From the ancient structures of Beijing, to the incredible craft that went into the Terracotta Warriors of Xian and the contrasting boom-city of Shanghai, see the best on this eight-day tour. Day 1: Beijing Transfer to your centrally located hotel.
INDEPENDENT TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • Beijing’s ancient sites • The sea of Terracotta Warriors • Walking on the Bund promenade Departs Beijing: Daily.
BEIJING
CHINA Xian Shanghai
Day 2: Beijing Tour Beijing’s most famous sights, including the Forbidden City, iconic Temple of Heaven and bustling Tiananmen Square. Return to your hotel late afternoon. B L Day 3: Beijing A tour highlight, take in the Great Wall of China at Mutianyu today. This section of the wall is less crowded to walk along and its dramatic scenery provides a picture-perfect backdrop. Return to Beijing in time to catch the evening train to Xian. B L
Day 7: Shanghai Head out for a full day exploring Shanghai’s fascinating sights, including the historical buildings lining the Bund, the bustling Yu Garden and Bazaar and the Jade Buddha Temple. B L Day 8: Shanghai Your exciting tour concludes with a transfer to the airport. B
Per person from $
$1851*
Temple of Heaven
Day 4: Xian Take a half day introductory city tour of this former capital. Learn of China’s history at the provincial museum, walk the 15th century city wall and wander the Muslim Quarter. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Day 5: Xian The highlight of the day’s touring is the 6000-strong army of Terracotta Warriors. Only uncovered in 1974, these life-size statues have to be seen to be believed. Then visit the Qin Tomb for the first Chinese emperor who ordered to build the Terracotta Warriors and Horses. The final stop is the neolithic village Banpo. B L Day 6: Xian – Shanghai Fly to Shanghai with some free time on arrival to relax or soak up this eclectic destination. B
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* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
Independent Tour
China
Xian City Wall
"Upgrade to 5 star hotel accommodation and travel by air from Beijing to Xian.” People's Square, Shanghai
CHINA ADVENTURE UPGRADE 8 Days/7 Nights from $2416* Includes Economy class airfares Beijing/Xian and Xian/Shanghai, accommodation, meals, transfers and sightseeing as specified and Englishspeaking local guides. The perfect introduction to the Middle Kingdom, this tour accentuates China’s truly amazing achievements. From the ancient structures of Beijing, to the incredible craft that went into the Terracotta Warriors of Xian and the contrasting boom-city of Shanghai, see the best on this eight-day tour. Day 1: Beijing Transfer to your centrally located hotel.
INDEPENDENT TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • Beijing’s ancient sites • The sea of Terracotta Warriors • Enjoy more time in Xian • Walking on the Bund Promenade Departs Beijing: Daily.
BEIJING
CHINA Xian Shanghai
Day 7: Shanghai Head out for a full day exploring Shanghai’s fascinating sights, including the historical buildings lining the Bund, the bustling Yu Garden and Bazaar and the Jade Buddha Temple. B L Day 8: Shanghai Your exciting tour concludes with a transfer to the airport. B
Day 2: Beijing Tour Beijing’s most famous sights, including the Forbidden City, iconic Temple of Heaven and bustling Tiananmen Square. Return to your hotel late afternoon. B L Day 3: Beijing A tour highlight, take in the Great Wall of China at Mutianyu today. This section of the wall is less crowded to walk along and its dramatic scenery provides a picture-perfect backdrop. Return to your hotel and remainder of the afternoon is at leisure. B L Day 4: Beijing - Xian Fly to Xian and take an afternoon introductory city tour of this former capital. Learn of China’s history at the provincial museum, walk the 15th century city wall and wander the Muslim Quarter. B Day 5: Xian The highlight of the day’s touring is the 6000-strong army of Terracotta Warriors. Only uncovered in 1974, these life-size statues have to be seen to be believed. Then visit the Qin Tomb for the first Chinese emperor who ordered to build the Terracotta Warriors and Horses. The final stop is the Neolithic village Banpo. B L Day 6: Xian – Shanghai Fly to Shanghai with some free time on arrival to relax or soak up this eclectic destination. B
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
Modern Beijing
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17
China
Independent Tour
Fan Dancing, Shanghai
“Experience cities and rural life on this fascinating 12 day tour.”
CAMEO CHINA 12 Days/11 Nights from $2885*
Includes Economy class airfares Shanghai/Guilin and Yangshuo/Xian, 4 berth overnight sleeper train compartment Xian/Beijing, accommodation, meals, transfers and sightseeing tours as specified and English-speaking local guides. Combine historic sites, bustling cities, rural country scenes and delicious cuisine on our most popular introduction to China. Day 1: Shanghai Transfer to your hotel on arrival.
INDEPENDENT TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • Tiered rice terraces and ethnic minorities in Longsheng • Laid-back pace and scenic countryside of Guilin • The Great Wall at Mutianyu Departs Shanghai: Daily. Note: The 5-star package is private throughout and includes an additional flight Xian/Beijing in place of the train and an extra nights accommodation in Beijing, Day 9. From Dec-Mar Longsheng will be replaced by three nights in Guilin. BEIJING
Xian
CHINA Shanghai
Yangshuo Guilin
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Day 2: Shanghai Sightseeing includes a visit to the Yu Garden and Bazaar, the Bund with its stunning architecture and the Jade Buddha Temple, one of Shanghai's few active Buddhist Temples. In the evening watch a performance of lithe acrobats. B L Day 3: Shanghai – Guilin Enjoy a morning at leisure before transferring to the airport for your afternoon flight to Guilin. B Day 4: Longsheng Check out of your hotel taking only hand luggage for an overnight stay in Longsheng, a stunning mountain area with beautiful steeped rice terraces, and the friendliness of the Red Yao and Zhuang ethnic minorities. B D Day 5: Guilin Transfer back to your Guilin hotel. In the afternoon experience a half day tour of Guilin's prettiest sights. Also take a fascinating calligraphy lesson to learn this ancient Chinese art form. In the evening join a night walking tour – the best time to see this vibrant city. B L Day 6: Guilin – Yangshuo Enjoy a cruise along the beautiful Li River, world-famous for its dramatic limestone karst scenery. Upon arrival in Yangshuo enjoy some free time to take in the relaxing atmosphere of this charming town. B L Day 7: Yangshuo – Xian Begin the day with a leisurely bicycle ride through the alluring Yangshuo countryside. On return to the town participate in a handson cooking demonstration. From Yangshuo,
drive to the airport for your flight to Xian. Upon arrival in China’s ancient capital, transfer to your hotel. B L Day 8: Xian Visit the amazing 6000-strong army of Terracotta Warriors and horses, as well as the Qin Tomb for the first Chinese emperor who ordered to build the Terracotta Warriors and Horses. The final stop is the Neolithic village Banpo. B L Day 9: Xian – Beijing Take the morning at leisure before an afternoon visit to the ancient Old City Wall, the informative Shaanxi History Museum and the Hui Muslim Great Mosque before boarding your overnight express train to Beijing. B Day 10: Beijing After checking-in to your accommodation and taking some free time to freshen up, travel some 90 km out of Beijing to see the largest manmade structure in the world, the Great Wall at Mutianyu. L Day 11: Beijing Explore the capital’s key cultural sights, including the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven and Tiananmen Square. B L Day 12: Beijing Transfer to the airport for your international flight home. B
Per person from $
$2964*
$3888*
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
Independent Tour
China
Longmen Grottoes
"This amazing region showcases China’s dynastic history and this tour is an exciting alternative to flying Beijing to Xian.”
THE MIDDLE KINGDOM 9 Days/8 Nights from $2041*
Includes Soft seat train journey Beijing/Zhengzhou and Luoyang/Xian, accommodation, meals, transfers, sightseeing as specified and English-speaking local guides. Terracotta Warrior This is a fantastic journey connecting historic Beijing and Xian. Stop at ancient ruins, learn the mysteries of kung fu and be in awe at the staggering Luoyang Grottoes. Day 1: Beijing Transfer to your hotel. Day 2: Beijing Begin your capital exploration with the key sights, including the impressive Forbidden City, tranquil Temple of Heaven and iconic Tiananmen Square. B L
INDEPENDENT TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • Great Wall • Forbidden City • Tai Chi • Terracotta Warriors Departs Beijing: Daily. Note: The Peony Festival is in Luoyang 05Apr-03May'12. Surcharges apply over this period.
Great Wall BEIJING
CHINA
Luoyang Xian
Zhengzhou LONGMEN GROTTOES
Day 3: Beijing Begin with a drive out of the city to the Badaling section of the Great Wall followed by the regal Ming Tombs. This evening enjoy the most famous specialty dish of Beijing – Peking Duck. B L D Day 4: Beijing – Zhengzhou Your touring starts with a transfer to the station for your scenic train ride to Zhengzhou. Once the ancient capital over 3500 years ago, Zhengzhou offers a rich culture and important historical sites. Enjoy the mutton braised noodles for dinner in the evening. D Day 5: Zhengzhou – Shaolin Morning visit to the informative Henan Museum and the Shang city ruins covering an area of over 2000 square metres. In the afternoon visit the renowned Shaolin Temple for a kung fu demonstration and to learn all about this ancient martial art. B L Day 6: Shaolin – Wenxian – Luoyang Journey this morning to Gongyi and visit the Grand Manor, now a museum of architecture. Also visit the grottoes which hold over 7000 Buddhist statues. Lunch is at a farmer's home where you can learn to make local noodles and taste your wares. In the afternoon continue to Wenxian, the birthplace of Taiji Quan (Tai Chi). Visit
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
some historical sites and watch the Taiji demonstration and have the chance to exchange with a Taiji Master to feel its magic, including a two-hour lesson. Afterwards transfer to Luoyang where you can indulge in the local flavours of a special soup banquet. B
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Day 7: Luoyang – Xian Visit the awe-inspiring Longmen Grottoes, a tour highlight. The caves are a vast complex of more than 2100 grottoes housing over 100,000 statues and 3,600 stone tablet inscriptions. After lunch board the bullet train to Xian. B L Day 8: Xian The day is filled with sightseeing thrills including the famed Terracotta Warriors, with three pits laden with ancient statues. Observe closely how each statues has different facial features and looks. Afterwards visit Qin Tomb for the first Chinese emperor who ordered to build the army of warriors and horses. The final stop is the Neolithic village Banpo. B L Day 9: Xian Your tour ends today with a transfer to the airport. B
Per person from $
From $2214*
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China
Independent Touring
“A sizzling culinary masterpiece – combine the exotic tastes of China with its touring highlights. A must for the gourmet.”
FLAVOURS OF CHINA 9 Days/8 Nights from $2198*
Includes Soft berth sleeper overnight train Beijing/Xian, economy class airfare Xian/Guilin, accommodation, meals, transfers, sightseeing as specified, entrance fees and Englishspeaking local guides. Meals in China represent more than just food on a plate – it is the cornerstone of all social interaction. The cuisine is divided into different regions and flavours and this tour offers an opportunity to sample the diversity of tastes throughout. Day 1: Beijing On arrival transfer to your hotel. Day 2: Beijing Depart today for the enchanting Great Wall of China, a must-see on any visit to the Middle Kingdom. Return via the ancient Ming Tombs and then head to Gaobeidian Village where you will meet a local family and learn how to make dumplings in their home. B L D
Pingyao
PRIVATE TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • Making dumplings with a local family in Beijing • Wandering in ancient Pingyao • Revealing cooking secrets in Yangshuo • Sampling the diverse cuisine of China throughout Departs Beijing: Daily.
Hanging Temple, Datong
Day 3: Beijing – Pingyao Explore the capital’s key attractions this morning, including vast Tiananmen Square and the fine detail of the Forbidden City. Enjoy a delicious Mongolian Hot Pot lunch at the famed Donglaishun Restaurant. In the afternoon, depart by train to Taiyuan, entry point to the best-preserved ancient city in China, Pingyao. B L D Day 4: Pingyao – Xian Take in the ancient sites of the old town of Pingyao before a local lunch with traditional folk performance. Daxitai Restaurant is famous for its great variety of flour dishes. Enjoy some free time in the afternoon before an evening soft berth sleeper train to Xian. B L D Day 5: Xian Arrive into Xian and immerse yourself in the local cuisine at the Shaanxi Cooking School. After feasting on your own fare, head to the
awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors where thousands of statues were uncovered. Conclude this exciting day with a Tang Dynasty show with dumpling dinner. B L
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Day 6: Xian – Guilin Wander through the Muslim quarter this morning, including a visit to the Great Mosque. Follow with the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a Buddhist monument. After a local Muslim specialty lunch, fly to Guilin, take an evening guided walk to the night market. B
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Day 7: Guilin – Yangshuo Set sail on one of Guilin’s key attractions – the Li River. Disembark midday into quaint Yangshuo. Take the remainder of the day at leisure to explore the cobbled streets and markets. B D Day 8: Yangshuo – Guilin This morning, head out to the country by car or bike and witness local life. Return to town and visit the Cooking School for some hands-on cooking experience. Transfer back to Guilin, where dinner will be a delicious specialty meal of tea-flavoured foods B L D Day 9: Guilin Take a morning city tour to Reed Flute Caves and Elephant Trunk Hill, before transferring to the airport for your onward flight. B L
Per person from $
ANCIENT NORTH CHINA 6 Days/5 Nights from $1399*
$2539*
Includes Accommodation, train Beijing/Datong, meals as specified, transfers and sightseeing as specified with local English speaking guides.
PRIVATE TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • Incredible hanging temples at Mt Heng • The holy mountain of Wutai • Wandering the streets of ancient Pingyao Departs Beijing: Daily. Note: Four-star option also available.
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Day 1: Beijing – Datong Depart by scenic day train to Datong. Transfer to your hotel on arrival. Day 2: Datong Experience a tour highlight with a visit to Yungang Grottoes, one of the most impressive cave complexes in China, carved from the cliffside in a honeycomb pattern and stretching for approximately one kilometre. B L Day 3: Datong – Mt. Wutai Depart this morning for the Hanging Temple. On the slope of Mt. Heng, all buildings stand vertical to the cliff making the peak seem upside down. Next stop by the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, the oldest and tallest
wooden pagoda in China. After lunch travel to the sacred town of Mt Wutai. B L D Day 4: Mt. Wutai – Taiyuan The most holy mountain of Chinese Buddhism, Mt. Wutai, is visited today with stops at the famed temples that dot the area. Journey to Taiyuan, capital of Shanxi Province. B
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Day 5: Taiyuan – Pingyao Transfer this morning to Pingyao to enjoy a walking tour of this ancient city. A World Cultural Heritage Site, Pingyao has a history dating back 2700 years. B L Day 6: Pingyao – Taiyuan Return to Taiyuan and opt to travel to Xian, Beijing or Shanghai from here. B
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
Independent Tours Bell Tower, Xian
CHINA EXPERIENCE 6 Days/5 Nights from $1253*
China
Includes Economy class flight Beijing/Xian, accommodation, meals, transfers, sightseeing tours as specified and English-speaking local guides.
“Experience China’s current and ancient capitals, offering amazing contrasts.” INDEPENDENT TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • Commanding sights of Beijing • The first glimpse of the Great Wall of China, snaking off into the distance • Contrasting sites in Xian Departs Beijing: Daily.
Home to two of China’s most famous historic sites, Beijing and Xian are alluring places offering significant cultural artifacts, delectable cuisine and a perfect induction into the Chinese way of life. Day 1: Beijing Transfer to your hotel on arrival. Day 2: Beijing Begin your capital exploration with the key sights, including the impressive Forbidden City, tranquil Temple of Heaven, and iconic Tiananmen Square. B L Day 3: Beijing Begin with a drive out of the city to the Badaling section of the Great Wall followed by the regal Ming Tombs. Standing atop the Wall, imagine how warriors once defended the country from Mongolian attack. B L
The Bund, Shanghai
Day 4: Beijing – Xian Transfer to the airport for your flight to the ancient Tang Dynasty capital of Xian. Go on a brief city tour of Xian, once the starting point of the ancient Silk Road, including the captivating Muslim Quarter. B L Day 5: Xian The day is filled with sightseeing thrills including the famed Terracotta Warriors, with three pits laden with ancient statues. Observe closely how each statue has different facial features and looks. Afterwards visit Qin Tomb for the first Chinese emperor who ordered to build the army of warriors and horses. The final stop is the Neolithic village Banpo. B L Day 6: Xian Your China Experience ends with a transfer to the airport for your onward flight. B
Per person from $
From $1351*
From $1532*
SHANGHAI SURPRISE & ZHOUZHUANG 4 Days/3 Nights from $1070*
Includes accommodation, meals, transfers, sightseeing as specified and English-speaking local guides.
“Get to know the real Shanghai and its surrounds on this alluring four day tour.”
INDEPENDENT TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • Walking the Bund promenade • The lithe ERA Acrobatic display • Lunch with a local family • Zhouzhuang’s traditional hotel Departs Shanghai: Daily. Note: Accommodation in Zhouzhuang is 3-star rated.
Shanghai is well-known for its spirited atmosphere but often the more tranquil side of Shanghai and its surrounds go undiscovered. This tour draws together the key sights, old backstreets and the Langham Yangtze Boutique property. From here, travel only 90 minutes to the picturesque town of Zhouzhuang.
Day 3: Shanghai – Zhouzhuang Take a backstreets walking tour this morning, discovering the unknown areas of Shanghai, including the Jewish Quarter, the intriguing Propaganda Poster Museum and more. After lunch, journey to Zhouzhuang, a famous water canal town. Stay in a local hotel, converted from an old house and enjoy a guided walk around the old town. B L D Day 4: Zhouzhuang – Shanghai Take the morning at leisure and explore the tranquil water town before the rush of tourists’ arrival. Return to Shanghai and transfer directly to the airport for your onward flight. B
Day 1: Shanghai On arrival, transfer to your hotel. Day 2: Shanghai Explore Shanghai’s main touring attractions this morning, including the historic Bund, Jade Buddha Temple and picturesque Yu Garden. Take some leisure time, perhaps to visit the informative Shanghai Museum, before an evening acrobatic performance that is bound to impress. B
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
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China
Private Tours HANGZHOU & WUZHEN 3 Days/2 Nights from $714*
Includes Accommodation, meals, transfers and sightseeing as specified and Englishspeaking local guide.
how the well leads the community to grow their own crops. B L
"An overnight stay in romantic Hangzhou truly showcases all that the city has to offer as it transforms by night.”
PRIVATE TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • Ancient water town of Wuzhen • West lake cruising • Hangzhou Departs Shanghai: Daily.
Romantic Hangzhou is considered ‘Heaven on Earth’ by many, famed for its pretty lake, detailed tea houses and artisan community.
Day 3: Hangzhou – Shanghai Visit Hu Xueyan’s residence, a luxurious house featuring exquisite wooden, brick and stone carvings. Wander the ancient Hefang Street and visit the Museum of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and enjoy the scenic river view at Liuhe Pagoda. Afternoon return to Shanghai by bullet train, upon arrival transfer to hotel. B
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Day 1: Shanghai – Wuzhen Your guide will meet you at 10.00 am at your Shanghai hotel and a 2 hour overland drive will take you to the ancient water town of Wuzhen. Visit the eastern old section with lunch and then stay at a boutique old house hotel in the western section. The afternoon is free to explore. L Day 2: Wuzhen – Hangzhou The morning is free to go on exploring the town until late morning transfer to Hangzhou. Take a cruise on West Lake with its everchanging scenery, visit a tea plantation to learn about the illustrious Dragon Well and
NANJING & SUZHOU 3 Days/2 Nights from $618*
West Lake, Hangzhou
Includes Return soft-seat train tickets, accommodation, meals, transfers and sightseeing as specified and English-speaking local guides.
Suzhou Canals
PRIVATE TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • Enchanting Nanjing by the Yangtze • Suzhou’s water canal lifestyle Departs Shanghai: Daily.
Day 3: Nanjing – Suzhou – Shanghai Depart this morning by train to Suzhou, a water town with an abundance of canals and bridges. Take in some of the most impressive Suzhou sights and be sure to have your camera ready for one of China’s most picturesque towns. B L
"Experience the beautiful scenery, gardens and old-world charm of Nanjing and Suzhou on this captivating tour.” Only a short distance from Shanghai the cultural metropolis of Nanjing and the quaint water town of Suzhou are on offer, both providing their own contrast to Shanghai’s energy and sites with an abundance of touring attractions. Day 1: Shanghai – Nanjing Depart by train for Nanjing and visit the mausoleum of China’s first president, Dr Sun Yat-Sen, alongside the beautiful Linggu Pagoda. L Day 2: Nanjing Visit the Yangtze’s first bridge before heading to a Ming mausoleum, the Presidential Palace and informative Nanjing Museum where you can learn the barbaric 1930s history that put this city firmly on the map. B L
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Linggu Pagoda
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
Private Tour
China
Hakka Tulou, Fujian
“See the hidden side of China with visits to lesser visited areas and stays in local-style accommodation.”
HIDDEN CHINA 8 Days/7 Nights from $2769*
Includes Soft seat train Guangzhou/Hong Kong, accommodation, meals, transfers, sightseeing as specified, all entrance fees and English-speaking local guide.
PRIVATE TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
With recently appointed UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the southern region of China is growing in profile. Expect to be wowed with the houses of Tulou, a tour highlight.
• The sights of Shanghai including the Yu Garden and the bund • Shanghai Acrobatic Troupe • Meandering through the old streets of Zhouzhuang • The incredible buildings of Hakka Tulou • Dailou’s towering structures • Travel by train to Hong Kong
Day 1: Shanghai On arrival, transfer to your hotel. Day 2: Shanghai Sightseeing includes a visit to the Yu Garden and Bazaar, the Bund with its stunning architecture and the Jade Buddha Temple, one of Shanghai's few active Buddhist temples. In the evening watch a performance of the Shanghai Acrobatic Troupe. B L Day 3: Shanghai – Zhouzhuang Morning at leisure before transferring to the famous water town of Zhouzhuang. Stay in a converted old house and enjoy a guided walk around the old town. L D
Departs Shanghai: Daily.
Day 4: Zhouzhuang – Xiamen Explore the tranquil water town at leisure before the rush of tourists’ arrival. Transfer to Shanghai airport for a flight to Xiamen. B L
Day 5: Xiamen – Tulou Travel to Tulou to see the magnificent architecture of the earthen houses. Several storeys high, they are built on a circular or square plan and house up to 800 people. B L D Day 6: Tulou – Kaiping Uncover more of Tulou’s secrets before lunch and then travel by vehicle and plane to Kaiping. B
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Day 7: Kaiping Explore the fortified multi-storey towers at Daiolou, with over 1800 tower houses evident in the village. B L Day 8: Kaiping – Hong Kong Transfer to Guangzhou, then travel by train to Hong Kong where your tour concludes. B Chengqilou
BEIJING
CHINA Shanghai
Xiamen Guangzhou Hong Kong
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
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China
Private Tour
Black Dragon Pool
“A great break from city touring, taking in a range of China’s ethnic groups and breathtaking mountain scenery.”
PRIVATE TOUR
YUNNAN ENCOUNTER 7 Days/6 Nights from $2026*
Includes Economy class flights Kunming/Dalia and Zhongdian/Kunming, accommodation, meals, transfers, sightseeing as specified, entrance fees and Englishspeaking local guides. With an alluring, mountainous backdrop, Yunnan Province is home to 29 of China’s 56 ethnic groups, representing a great alternative or addition to the larger cities of China.
HIGHLIGHTS • The cobbled old-town streets of Lijiang, perfect for pottering
A journey around the key cities is a highlight of a visit to China.
• Scenery at Tiger Leaping Gorge
Day 1: Kunming Arrive into Kunming and transfer to your hotel. Remainder of the day at leisure.
• Tibetan life in Zhongdian • The ethnic minority groups Departs Kunming: Daily. Note: Four-star option also available. Please note: This tour visits high altitudes. Please make sure you have acclimatised before any strenuous activity.
Day 2: Kunming – Dali Take the early morning flight to Dali, home to the Bai ethnic group and spectacular mountain scenery. Your full day tour includes Dali old town, Xizhou Village where a small local market takes place, the pictographic Three Pagodas and a chairlift ride up Cangshan Mountain for exceptional views of Dali. B L Day 3: Dali – Lijiang Travel through the scenic Yunnan countryside this morning from Dali to Lijiang. With a quaint old town, crisp mountain air, breathtaking mountain scenery and friendly locals, Lijiang is considered a "fairyland beneath the clouds". On arrival, stretch your legs with an introductory walking tour of the water canals and old town Lijiang. B L
CHINA
Day 4: Lijiang Explore the Baisha Frescoes, Joseph Lock’s residence and the pretty Black Dragon Pool. B L Day 5: Lijiang – Zhongdian Depart for Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the world. Enjoy a gentle hike for an hour to a scenic viewpoint before the journey to Shangri-La. B L Day 6: Zhongdian Visit Bita Lake, the Lama Temple and also stop by a local Tibetan family. B L Day 7: Zhongdian – Kunming This morning fly to Kunming, with on optional tour to the eerie Stone Forest (if time permits), before boarding your onwards flight departing Yunnan Province. B L
Autumn Fields, Kunming
Lijiang Dali Zhongdian Kunming
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* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
Private Tour
China
Camel riding, Dunhuang
"An extraordinary journey along the Chinese section of the ancient silk trade route."
THE SILK ROAD 18 Days/17 Nights from $5523*
Includes Accommodation, economy class flights as mentioned, two soft-sleeper train journeys, meals as indicated, transfers and sightseeing with a local English speaking guide.
Urumqi
Kashgar
BEIJING
Turpan Dunhuang
Day 2: Beijing Visit the impressive Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven and beautiful Summer Palace. B L
Lanzhou Xiahe
Day 1: Beijing On arrival in China's fascinating capital, transfer to your hotel and relax.
Xian Shanghai
CHINA PRIVATE TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • Fascinating old-world charm of Kashgar • Stunning Mogao Caves
Day 3: Beijing Journey to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall and the regal Ming Tombs. B L Day 4: Beijing – Urumqi – Kashgar Enjoy the morning at leisure before your afternoon flight to Urumqi. Take a brief city tour before flying to Kashgar. B L Day 5: Kashgar Start your morning with the exciting animal market where locals bring their livestock for sale. From here explore the bustling Sunday Bazaar and conclude the day with the amazing glazed tiles of the historic Abakh Hoja Tomb. B
• Tibtetan mountain town of Xiahe Departs Beijing: Daily. Note: Four-star option also available.
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Day 6: Kashgar Today enjoy the sights of the old town with a walking tour and a local home visit before boarding your afternoon soft-sleeper overnight train to Turpan, the world's second lowest city. B L Day 7: Turpan Arrive in Turpan and tour the incredible Gaochang Ruins, built in the 1st century BC, and towering Emin Minaret. In the evening enjoy a local dinner show. B L D Day 8: Turpan – Dunhuang Explore the amazing Jiaohe Ruins, Karaz underground irrigation system, Astana Tombs, and Bezeklik Buddhist caves, with stunning mountain backdrop. Travel on the overnight train to Dunhuang. B L D
Chengqilou
incredible artwork here is remarkably intact. Stop by the Great Wall Museum before departing for your afternoon flight to Lanzhou. B L Day 11: Lanzhou Journey to the incredible Bingling Si – the Thousand Buddha Caves – a place of mystery. Return to Lanzhou, stopping by White Pagoda Hill for panoramic views of the city en-route. B
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Day 12: Lanzhou – Xiahe Start the scenic mountain drive to Xiahe, home to Tibetan, Hui Muslim and Han Chinese locals. En-route stop by Unxia and its Great Mosque. In the afternoon, visit Xiahe's Sangke Grasslands and a local Tibetan family for tea. B L D Day 13: Xiahe – Lanzhou Absorb the mystical atmosphere of the significant and holy Labrang Monastery, one of the six great monasteries of the Geluk (Yellow Hat) school of Tibetan Buddhism. After lunch return to Lanzhou. B L Day 14: Lanzhou – Xian Take a morning flight to Xian and on arrival to this ancient capital, enjoy some free time before your evening Tang Dynasty dumpling dinner and show. B L D Day 15: Xian See the famed Terracotta Warriors and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda where Buddhist scriptures were once housed. B L D Day 16: Xian – Shanghai Fly to Shanghai this morning and visit the architectural sights of the Bund and the former French concession area at Xintiandi. Conclude the day with a magical acrobatic show. B
Day 9: Dunhuang Arrive at Uuyuan Station and transfer to Dunhuang, an exciting desert town. Take a short camel ride into the desert to see the sand dunes and Crescent Spring, and maybe even try your hand at sand tobogganing. B L
Day 17: Shanghai Witness the flurry of activity at the Yu Garden and Bazaar and the Shanghai Museum before some leisure time. B
Day 10: Dunhuang – Lanzhou The stunning Mogao Caves, a tour highlight, were once a spiritual Buddhist site – the
Day 18: Shanghai Your exciting Silk Road tour concludes today with a transfer to the airport. B
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
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China
Yangtze River Cruising
Huangshan (Yellow Mountain)
Victoria Anna, Deluxe Suite
Victoria Cruises Experience a memorable river cruise along the lifeline of China’s waterways; the Yangtze River. At 6300 km it is the world’s third largest river and is rich in cultural relics, ancient temples and incredible gorge scenery.
beauty salon, the latest satellite communications, HBO, CNN and internet access. All Victoria Cruise vessels offer four cabin types; Superior Cabins and Executive, Deluxe or Shangri-La Suites. The cruise itineraries in this brochure are priced on the Superior Cabin*.
The journey from Chongqing to Yichang covers a significant portion of the best scenery and shore excursions. For over a decade, Victoria Cruises has been the leader in Yangtze River cruising, because of the quality of their fleet, outstanding service, innovative itineraries, sumptuous dining and of course 5 star comfort. The fleet offers comfortable well-equipped outside cabins with picture windows and private balconies. Multi lingual cruise directors and knowledgeable river guides offer assistance and narration en-route. A wealth of entertainment and activities are on offer, including lectures on Tai Chi, Chinese history and calligraphy, alongside adventure filled shore excursions. There are several different itineraries through the spectacular Three Gorges, sailing 3 nights Chongqing-Yichang, 4 nights YichangChongqing, as well as the round trip 7 night itinerary sailing Chongqing-Yichang-Chongqing with different shore excursions in each direction. For those looking for an in-depth view of the Three Gorge and Eastern Yangtze regions, there are two options, a 6 night Chongqing-Shanghai or 8 night Shanghai-Chongqing cruise. You’ll find all of these cruise options and a summary of the spectacular shore excursions over the next 4 pages. Other on board facilities include, a business centre, reading room, fitness area, gift shop and 26
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CHINA SHENNONG STREAM DANING RIVER
SMALL GORGES
Shanghai Nanjing
THREE GORGES DAM Wushan Wuhan Yichang Wanzhou Shibaozhai THREE Fengdu GORGES New Zigui Chongqing
White Emperor City
Huangshan Jiuhuashan
Shore Excursions Yangtze River
China
Victoria Anna The majority of shore excursions are included in the various cruise itineraries. With the expert knowledge of the local river guides you will experience a different adventure each day. The following are examples of some of the many shore excursions available. See the individual itineraries for included excursions.
THREE GORGES One of nature’s most extraordinary sculptures, carved along the mighty Yangtze River. Qutang Gorge – Is the shortest (6 km), narrowest (150 metres) and most dramatic. Two mountains guard the entrance like giant doors. Wu Gorge – Is 33 km long and known for its quiet beauty, forest covered mountains, and sheer cliffs. Its peaks are often hidden by swirls of mist. Xiling Gorge – The final gorge is the longest (54 km) and the deepest. It is comprised of seven smaller gorges, whose varied names are based upon ancient legends.
HUANGSHAN (YELLOW MOUNTAIN) This World Heritage site is one of China's most famous mountain ranges. Located on the southern bank of the Yangtze in Anhui province, Huangshan has greatly influenced traditional Chinese landscape painting. Pine trees are one of the "Four Splendours" of Huangshan. Almost every rock has a pine tree growing out of its crevice; every tree is unique, a tortured marvel with gnarled roots and branches.
DANING RIVER (SMALL GORGES) The river winds its way (33 km) through the beautiful Small Gorges. Dragon Gate Gorge ranges from only ten to thirty metres wide while the cliffs on either bank soar to an average of 800 to 1000 metres. Two rows of square holes extending the entire length are all that remain of an ancient plank walkway first recorded in 246 BC. In the Misty Gorge, a 2000 year old "hanging" coffin can be seen suspended on a precipice high up on the cliff-face.
SHIBAOZHAI A red pavillion hugs one side of this rock. Its tall yellow entrance gate is decorated with lions and dragons and etched with an inscription inviting the visitor to ascend into a 'Little Fairyland'. The temple at the top was built during the reign of the Emperor Qianlong (1736-96) and access to it was by an iron chain attached to the cliff. A nine-storey wooded pavilion was added in 1819 so that monks and visitors to the temple would not have to suffer the discomforts of the chain ascent. Optional excursion: USD$32 per person.
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China
Yangtze River Cruising THREE GORGE HIGHLIGHTS 5 Days/4 Nights from $623*
CHINA
Includes 4 nights superior cabin accommodation, meals as indicated, all on board activities; lectures on Chinese history and culture, Tai Chi lessons and calligraphy demonstrations and regular shore excursions escorted by expert river guides.
SHENNONG STREAM SMALL GORGES
UPSTREAM
DANING RIVER THREE GORGES DAM Wushan White Emperor City Wanzhou THREE GORGES Yichang Shibaozhai Fengdu DOWNSTREAM Chongqing
RIVER CRUISE • Victoria Anna • Victoria Jenna
HIGHLIGHTS • Three Gorges Dam site • Sail the Three Gorges Dam ship locks
Enjoy a remarkable journey along the mighty Yangtze River taking in all the amazing cultural historical and scenic sights en-route. Day 1: Yichang 9:00 pm departure from Yichang the cultural centre of western Hubei Province. Day 2: Three Gorges Dam – Xiling Gorge Morning shore excursion to the Three Gorges Dam site at Sandouping, the largest in the world. Later sail through the Three Gorges Dam ship locks and Xiling Gorge; the largest and deepest of the Three Gorges. B L D
Gorges, but very impressive. Pass through the final two gorges; Wu and Qutang. B L D Day 4: Fengdu and Shibaozhai Shore excursion to Fengdu, visiting either the Ghost City, known for its statues of ghosts and devils on Mingshan Hill, or the relocation village, built for families who have moved as a result of the Yangtze’s rising waters brought about by the Three Gorges Dam project. Optional excursion to Shibaozhai to see the 12-storey pagoda, know as The Pearl of the Yangtze. B L D Day 5: Chongqing 9:00 am arrival. Disembark at picturesque Chongqing, the Mountain City. B
Day 3: Daning River (Small Gorges) – Wu Gorge – Qutang Gorge Morning excursion to Daning River (Small Gorges), which are narrower than the Three
• Sail the Three Gorges; Xiling, Wu and Qutang • Boat excursion to the Small Gorges • Fengdu ‘Ghost City’ or relocation village Departs Yichang: Daily departures except Tuesdays between 18 Mar '12 and 24 Nov'12. Limited departures between Dec - Feb. Departs Chongqing: Daily departures except Sat between 18 Mar '12 and 24 Nov'12. Limited departures between Dec - Feb. Note: Alternative excursions may be substituted depending on river conditions. Optional excursions cost US$32 per person, per excursion.
Victoria Jenna
THREE GORGE HIGHLIGHTS 4 Days/3 Nights from $623*
These packages do not include transfers to and from the ship.
Includes 3 nights Superior cabin accommodation, meals as indicated, all on board activities; lectures on Chinese history and culture, Tai Chi lessons and calligraphy demonstrations and regular shore excursions escorted by expert river guides.
This cruise is the reverse itinerary to the Three Gorge Highlights cruise above. The duration is shorter as this cruise travels down stream. The inclusions and highlights are the same as above. Day 1: Depart Chongqing at 9 pm. Day 2: Fengdu or Shibaozhai Visit Fengdu, either the Ghost City or relocation village and Shibaozhai (optional). B
Victoria Jenna, Superior Cabin
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Day 4: Three Gorges Dam / Yichang Morning shore excursion to the Three Gorges Dam at Sandouping. Disembark at Yichang at 1.30 pm, after lunch. B L Departs Chongqing: Daily departures except Sat between 18 Mar '12 and 24 Nov'12. Limited departures between Dec - Feb. Please note: Alternative excursions may be substituted depending on river conditions.
D
Day 3: Three Gorges – Daning River (Small Gorges) Pass through the Three Gorges. Excursion to the Small Gorges. This evening sail through the dam ship locks. B L D
Optional excursions cost from US$ 32 per person, per excursion. These packages do not include transfers to and from the ship.
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
Yangtze River Cruising
China
GRAND YANGTZE DISCOVERY 9 Days/8 Nights from $1334*
CHINA
SHENNONG STREAM DANING RIVER
Shanghai
SMALL GORGES Nanjing
THREE GORGES DAM White Wuhan Yichang Emperor City Wushan Wanzhou Shibaozhai THREE Fengdu GORGES New Zigui
Huangshan Jiuhuashan
Includes 8 nights Superior cabin accommodation, meals as indicated, all on board activities; lectures on Chinese history and culture, Tai Chi lessons and calligraphy demonstrations and regular shore excursions escorted by expert river guides.
Chongqing
After time in vibrant Shanghai relax and unwind on this spectacular nine day Yangtze River cruise. With regular shore excursions you will witness river and rural life, see towering mountain peaks in Huangshan, sail through the mighty Three Gorges and visit the spectacular Small Gorges on the Daning River.
CRUISE HIGHLIGHTS • Cosmopolitan Shanghai • Nanjing • Huangshan (Yellow Mountain)
Day 1: Shanghai 5:00 pm sail from Shanghai, China’s dynamic commercial centre. D
• Wuhan • Three Gorges Dam site • Sail the Three Gorges Dam ship locks • Sail the Three Gorges • Boat excursion to the Small Gorges
Day 2: Nanjing Full day tour of Nanjing including Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum and a Qing Dynasty style bazaar surrounding a Confucian temple. B L D Day 3: Huangshan Full-day excursion to Huangshan (Yellow Mountain), one of China’s most famous mountain ranges. Travel to this royal retreat through some of the country’s most scenic rural areas. Jiuhuashan or Mountain of the Nine Lotuses may be substituted if weather or road conditions do not permit a visit to Huangshan. B L D
• Regular shore excursions Departs Shanghai: Sun; 18Mar-11Nov'12 .
through Qutang Gorge, the shortest (7 km), narrowest (150 metres), and most dramatic gorge. Take an excursion down the Daning River which winds its way 33 kms through the beautiful Small Gorges. Dragon Gate Gorge where the river ranges from ten to thirty meters wide while the cliffs on either bank soar to an average of 800 to 1000 metres, Misty Gorge, a 2000 year old "hanging" coffin can be seen suspended on a precipice high up on the cliff-face, and Emerald Green Gorge covered with lush bamboo groves. B L D Day 8: Fengdu Today’s shore excursion is at Fengdu. Visit either the Ghost City, known for its statues of ghosts and devils on Mingshan Hill, or the new relocation village, built for families who have moved as a result of the Yangtze's rising waters brought about by the Three Gorges Dam project. B L D Day 9: Chongqing 8:00 am disembark at picturesque Chongqing, the Mountain City. B
Day 4: Wuhan Evening shore excursion of Wuhan, capital of Hubei Province. Visit either the Rare Stone Museum or take a walking tour. B L D Day 5: Yangtze River Continue sailing on the Yangtze River.
B
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Day 6: Yichang – Xiling Gorge – Three Gorges Dam – ship locks This morning sail through Gezhou Dam near Yichang. In the afternoon visit the Three Gorges Dam site, the largest in the world. Sail through Xiling Gorge, the longest (54 km) and the deepest of the Three Gorges. Later today, enter the Three Gorges Dam ship locks. B L D
Fengdu
Day 7: Wu & Qutang Gorge – Daning River Small Gorges Enter Wu Gorge, known for its quiet beauty and forest-covered mountains. Then sail
GRAND YANGTZE DISCOVERY 7 Days/6 Nights from $1245*
Includes 6 nights Superior cabin accommodation, meals as indicated, all on board activities; lectures on Chinese history and culture, Tai Chi lessons and calligraphy demonstrations and regular shore excursions escorted by expert river guides. This cruise is the reverse itinerary to the Grand Yangtze Discovery cruise above. The duration is shorter as this cruise travels down stream. The inclusions and highlights are the same as above.
Please note: All Yangtze River cruise itineraries and times are subject to change depending on river conditions. These packages do not include transfers to and from the ship.
Departs Chongqing: Mon; 12 Mar - 05 Nov '12. * All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
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China
Yangtze River Cruising
Summer Palace, Beijing
WONDERS OF THE YANGTZE 11 Days/10 Nights from $3848*
Includes Accommodation, a twin standard cabin with private facilities on cruise, meals, transfers, sightseeing as specified, all entrance fees and English-speaking local guides.
Victoria Anna, Superior Cabin
RIVER CRUISE • Victoria Anna
Travel in style on this exceptional journey through the Middle Kingdom. Explore Beijing and reveal Xian's ancient secrets before boarding the 5 star Yangtze cruise on the world's third largest river. Conclude with cosmopolitan Shanghai. Day 1: Beijing Transfer to your hotel.
HIGHLIGHTS • Wandering on the Great Wall of China • The collection of Terracotta Warriors • Watching the Yangtze River scenery unfold from your deluxe cruise ship • Uncovering the ancient water canal town of Zhujiajiao Departs Beijing: Daily departures except Tues between 18 Mar '12 and 24 Nov'12. Limited departures between Dec - Feb.
Day 2: Beijing Explore the capital’s highlights today including Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and the old, narrow courtyards of the hutongs. Stop by the vast grounds of the Summer Palace. Conclude the day with a sumptuous Peking duck banquet. B L D Day 3: Beijing – Xian A tour highlight today – compare China’s old with the new. Head northwest to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall for astounding views and an opportunity to walk this ancient structure. Return to Beijing, stopping by the Olympic Stadium. Be amazed at the Bird’s Nest Stadium and The Cube Aquatic Centre with their incredible architecture. Fly to the ancient capital of Xian early evening. B L
Beijing
CHINA
Xian
Yichang YANGTZE RIVER
Chongqing
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Day 4: Xian Explore Xian, visiting the Muslim Quarter and discovering the history of the Terracotta Warriors, witnessing the individual features of the statues firsthand.
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Shanghai
Your evening entertainment is an exciting Tang Dynasty show and dumpling banquet. B
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Day 5: Xian – Chongqing Enjoy the morning at leisure before departing by plane to Chongqing, the starting port of
your Yangtze cruise experience. Embark your deluxe cruise ship and set sail. B L Day 6: Chongqing – Fengdu Cruise downstream today, stopping at the ghost city of Fengdu or the stone treasures fortress at Shibaozhai en-route. B L D Day 7: Three Gorges The Yangtze’s main attraction, the dramatic Three Gorges are passed today, with Wuxia Gorge being the most picturesque. Your shore excursion is a highlight – the narrow gorge scenery of Shennong Stream or Daning River. B L D Day 8: Yichang – Shanghai Visit the immense Three Gorges Dam and witness the incredible feat of engineering. Disembark in Yichang and fly to China’s economic hub, Shanghai. Transfer to your hotel on arrival. B L Day 9: Shanghai Experience a full day tour of Shanghai, taking in The Bund’s architecture and views, the bustling Yu Garden and Bazaar and the informative Shanghai Museum. In the evening, witness a tour highlight – the ERA Shanghai Acrobat show. B L Day 10: Shanghai The morning will be at leisure to explore Shanghai at your own pace. An afternoon excursion will take you to the ancient water town of Zhujiajiao. With a history of over 1700 years, it is very well-preserved. B L D Day 11: Shanghai Your tour concludes today with a transfer to the airport. B
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
BEIJING Hotels
China
Forbidden Palace, Beijing
BEIJING UNCOVERED 4 Days/3 Nights from $578* Includes accommodation at the Dong Fang Hotel meals, transfers, sightseeing as specified and English speaking local guide. Prices for other properties are available on request.
DONG FANG from $52* per night
Includes breakfast.
SUNWORLD HOTEL from $73* per night
Includes breakfast.
Between the Temple of Heaven and Tiananmen Square, this hotel is five km from the railway station and 45 minutes from the airport. Dong Fang blends classic Chinese and Western designs.
Located in the Doncheng District, in downtown Beijing. An ideal location for exploring the city's sights and shopping. Rooms are spacious and traditional yet refined in style.
Facilities: Restaurant • coffee shop • business centre • beauty salon
Facilities: 4 restaurants • bar • fitness centre • business centre • massage service
Room Features: 288 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • hairdryer • fridge • mini-bar
Room Features: 308 rooms • air-conditioning • mini-bar • TV • tea/coffee facilities
Day 1: Beijing Arrive and transfer to your hotel. Day 2: Beijing Explore the city's finest attractions including the Forbidden City, expansive Tiananmen Square and a journey through the old courtyards and alleyways of the hutongs. B L Day 3: Beijing No visit to Beijing is complete without an excursion to the Great Wall of China. Drive 90 km to the walk the wall at your own pace. A magical day. B L Day 4: Beijing Take a transfer to the airport to conclude your stay. B
KAPOK HOTEL from $111* per night
Includes breakfast. A modern boutique hotel crafting Chinese influences with simplicity as the key element of the design, Hotel Kapok is in the heart of ancient Beijing, located between the shopping precinct of Wangfujing and the historic buildings of the Forbidden City. Facilities: Restaurant • 2 bars • library • gym • sauna Room Features: 89 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • hairdryer • mini-bar
CAPITAL HOTEL from $82* per night
CITY SIGHTSEEING OPTIONS
Includes breakfast. Discover Beijing’s history, culture and beauty from this well-located hotel, just moments from the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square and the Temple of Heaven. The well-appointed rooms blend modern comfort with imperial elegance. Facilities: 8 restaurants • gym • heated indoor swimming pool • Chinese therapies • bowling Room Features: 599 rooms • air-conditioning • safe • mini-bar • tea/coffee facilities • TV • hairdryer
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
Per person $ Forbidden City,Temple of Heaven & Summer Palace
$160
Hutongs Tour
$90
Summer Palace & Lama Temple
$119
Great Wall Mutianyu & Ming Tombs
$175
Peking Duck Dinner
$90
Kung Fu Show
$131
Based on two people travelling
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China
BEIJING Hotels
Beijing Hutongs
NOVOTEL XINQIAO from $69* per night
Includes breakfast.
NOVOTEL BEIJING PEACE from $73* per night
Includes breakfast.
Facilities: 3 restaurants • lobby bar • coffee shop • gym • sauna • thermal baths • outdoor tennis court • beauty salon
The Novotel Beijing Peace is ideally located in the city centre amid the bustling Wangfujing shopping district. It is within walking distance of world-famous attractions such as the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square and a short drive to the railway station. Rooms are spacious and contemporary in design, offering a relaxing retreat after a busy day exploring the city.
Room Features: 700 rooms • air-conditioning • safe • mini-bar • TV • internet
Facilities: 2 restaurants • 2 bars • swimming pool • bicycle hire • fitness centre • massage services • room service • tour desk
An Adventure World favourite, this comfortable hotel is directly opposite a subway station and only a short walk from Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, making it readily accessible to all of Beijing’s sights. The airport is a 45 minute drive.
Room Features: 402 rooms • air-conditioning • safe • WiFi • mini-bar • TV • hairdryer
PENTA HOTEL from $75* per night
Includes breakfast.
Includes breakfast.
With a fantastic downtown location, this property offers comfort, service and convenience in one. Adjacent to the New World Shopping Centre, and with a subway stop just minutes away, all of Beijing is accessible from the hotel.
On bustling Wangfujing Avenue, the heart of the city’s vibrant shopping district, the Crowne Plaza is four km from Beijing Railway Station and 40 km from Beijing Capital Airport. A ten minute walk takes you to the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square.
Facilities: Restaurant • café • lounge • swimming pool • gym
Facilities: 2 restaurants • bar • swimming pool • sauna • Jacuzzi • gym • business centre • internet • beauty salon
Room Features: 299 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • safe • iron/board • mini-bar • hairdryer • robes • free WiFi
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CROWNE PLAZA from $105* per night
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Room Features: 360 rooms • air-conditioning • iron/board • tea/coffee facilities • hairdryer • TV • fridge • safe • mini-bar
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
BEIJING Luxury Hotels
China
Beijing CBD by night
REGENT HOTEL from $144* per night
+
Includes breakfast.
FAIRMONT BEIJING from $180* per night
+
Includes breakfast.
Close to Wangfujing shopping district and within walking distance of Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, this hotel is 40 minutes from the airport. The Regent Hotel combines a great location with 5-star elegance and premier service. Facilities: 5 restaurants and bars • business centre • internet • gym • infinity edge pool • Jacuzzi • spa Room Features: 500 rooms • air-conditioning • internet • safe • TV • DVD player • tea/coffee facilities • hairdryer • robes
Fairmont Beijing, one of Beijing's newest luxury hotels, is located across from renowned shopping such as the local Pearl and Silk Market. The gate-form architecture showcases natural light-filled interiors accented by contemporary Chinese artworks, creating a sense of space and luxury living. The interior design of the Hotel's guest rooms and suites reflect a blend of traditional and contemporary Chinese style, with floor-to-ceiling-windows. Facilities: 2 restaurants and bars • spa and fitness centre • business centre Room Features: 220 rooms • air-conditioning • internet • safe • TV • DVD player • coffee machine
CHINA WORLD HOTEL from $190* per night
+
Includes breakfast. The award-winning China World Hotel is luxury in the heart of Beijing. Near to the Forbidden City, the China World Trade Centre complex and the Exhibition Centre, guests will be relaxing in one of the most prestigious avenues. Rooms are decorated with contemporary Asian art and sleek furnishings and equipped with high standard amenities. Guests can experience the legendary Shangri-La hospitality, acclaimed restaurants and a host of leisure and health facilities. Facilities: 4 restaurants • 1 bar • fitness centre • indoor swimming pool • indoor tennis courts • traditional Chinese massage • complimentary broadband
RAFFLES BEIJING HOTEL from $175* per night
+
Includes breakfast. Built in the 1900s, Raffles Beijing Hotel has long stood as an icon of Beijing’s historical heritage. Ideally situated at the crossroads of famous Chang An Avenue and the district of Wangfujing, in the heart of the prestigious business and commercial districts, and a few minutes from the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square and the Silk market. Epitomising elegance and exclusivity, guests can luxuriate in the decadent rooms, and experience sumptuous culinary creations from the choice of distinctive restaurants and bars. Facilities: 2 restaurants • 1 bar • indoor swimming pool • meeting rooms • In One Spa • WiFi Room Features: 171 rooms • air-conditioning • mini-bar • safe • TV
Room Features: 716 rooms • air-conditioning • mini-bar • safe • TV • tea/coffee facilities • iron/board • pillow menu
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
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China
BEIJING AND THE GREAT WALL Great Wall, Mutianyu
Beijing BEIJING HOMESTAY 2 Days/1 Night from $181*
Includes accommodation with shared facilities, meals, transfers and English-speaking local guide.
evening learn from a family member how to make dumplings or noodles and then sit down to eat your meal together.
“Easily added to any of our packages, this is a fun and interactive experience.” PRIVATE TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • Learning about village life
Join in traditional activities and take time to chat with your family.
When in Rome… or Beijing as the case may be – stay with a local family, learn to cook and join in with their regular evening activities.
Every evening, with or without an audience, Gaobeidian locals practise their dancing and visitors can join in. D
• Practising your culinary skills Departs Beijing: Daily. Note: This tour has basic accommodation with shared facilities.
Day 1: Beijing Mid-afternoon transfer to your local Chinese home in Gaobeidian, stopping by the traditional furniture street, small museum and pretty garden en-route. At your home for the
GREAT WALL ESCAPE 2 Days/1 Night from $509*
Day 2: Beijing After breakfast with the family, enjoy an exploratory walk through the local village to conclude your homestay experience. B
Includes accommodation, meals, transfers, sightseeing as specified and English-speaking local guide.
PRIVATE TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
“Experience two varied sections of the Great Wall combined with one of the most unique accommodation experiences in northern China.”
• The tranquility of Red Capital Ranch Departs Beijing: Daily. Note: Hiking at Red Capital Ranch is on uneven surfaces and proper footwear must be worn. Closed 15Nov'1215Mar'13.
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Escape the city and stay at the exceptional Red Capital Ranch with almost 360° Great Wall views surrounding the property. Day 1: Beijing – Great Wall Drive 44 km northwest to the ancient Ming
Tombs. After exploration continue to your unique accommodation at Red Capital Ranch, nestled beside the Great Wall of China. Each of the ten villas is distinctly decorated and offer pure escapism with no phone, TV or internet access. Enjoy some free time in the afternoon with options to hike the Great Wall trail. L Day 2: Great Wall – Beijing Depart mid-morning and travel 30 min to the restored Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, concluding an in-depth Great Wall experience. B L * All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
SHANGHAI Hotels & Sightseeing
China Shanghai
Shanghai SHANGHAI UNCOVERED 4 Days/3 Nights from $640* Includes accommodation at the Holiday Inn Express, meals and sightseeing as specified and an English speaking local guide. Prices for other properties available on request.
HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS from $40* per night
Includes breakfast.
PUXI NEW CENTURY from $60* per night
Includes breakfast.
Located a ten minute drive from downtown Shanghai and 55 minutes from Pudong International Airport, this property is close to Jing’an Temple and Jade Buddha Temple. Rooms are contemporary in design. Facilities: Restaurant • business centre Room Features: 237 rooms • air-conditioning • mini-bar • internet • TV • hairdryer • tea/ coffee facilities
Located in the downtown area of Shanghai, this property is adjacent to Shanghai Railway Station with 15 minutes to People’s Square and Nanjing Road. Facilities: 2 restaurants • cafe • bar • business centre • gym • chess & card centre Room Features: 263 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • internet access • mini bar
Cosmopolitan Shanghai is soaring ahead of the rest of China with its modern buildings, chic restaurants and stylish locals. Day 1: Shanghai Arrive and transfer to your hotel. Day 2: Shanghai Wander the Yu Gardens, view the historic Bund and observe the bustle of Nanjing Road on this half day tour. B Day 3: Zhujiajiao Visit the ancient water town of Zhujiajiao today, just 45 minutes from Shanghai, and on return stop at the Shanghai TV Tower, where you can enjoy a bird's eye view of the whole city. B L Day 4: Shanghai Take a transfer to the airport to conclude your stay. B
RENDEZVOUS MERRY from $75* per night
Includes breakfast. At the end of Nanjing Road West and only a short stroll from Jing’an subway station. The international airport is a 50 minute drive. Facilities: 2 restaurants • lobby bar • health spa • small gym • business centre Room Features: 342 rooms • air-conditioning • mini-bar • safe • internet • TV • tea/coffee facilities • iron/board • rainforest-head shower • hairdryer
SALVO HOTEL from $91* per night
Includes breakfast. Offering spectacular views of The Bund, Huangpu River and beyond, this hotel is in a prime location. The hotel combines old-world decor, modern amenities, state-of-the-art appliances and Spanish-style furnishings. Facilities: 3 restaurants • 2 bars • meeting rooms • health club and gym • beauty parlour Room Features: 600 rooms • air-conditioning • mini-bar • safe • TV • iron/board • hairdryer
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
CITY SIGHTSEEING OPTIONS Per person from $ Cultural Shanghai
$131
Yu Garden & Bund & Nanjing Road
$87
Evening Acrobats Show
$85
Zhujiajiao & Shanghai TV Tower
$280
Suzhou By Train
$277
Based on two people travelling
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China
SHANGHAI Hotels
SOFITEL HYLAND from $120* per night
BROADWAY MANSIONS HOTEL from $59* per night
Includes breakfast.
Includes breakfast. With one of the best locations in Shanghai, nearby attractions include the Bund, People’s Square and the Shanghai Museum. Pudong International Airport is an hour away and the nearest subway is a few paces. The Club level is worth upgrading to.
A British-style hotel enjoying a prosperous location in downtown Shanghai, near the Bund and looking down over Huangpu River. Guests can enjoy easy access to the city's business, shopping, sightseeing and entertainment districts.
Facilities: 2 restaurants • café • bar • gym • sauna • business centre • Vita Spa
Facilities: Restaurant • coffee shop • business centre • fitness room • sauna • tour desk
Room Features: 401 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • internet access • safe • mini-bar • hairdryer
Room Features: 250 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • internet access
SWISSOTEL GRAND SHANGHAI from $121* per night
Includes breakfast.
RENAISSANCE YUYUAN from $105* per night
Includes breakfast. Near the famous Yu Garden and bustling Old Town and just minutes away from the Bund, this property is highly recommended. Pudong International Airport is 31km away.
In a leading location in the district of Jing'an in central Shanghai, within close proximity to Nanjing West Road and an array of cultural sights. With luxurious accommodations featuring top-of-the-line technology and unique Swissotel hospitality combined with a Chinese touch, this is an excellent choice for leisure or business travellers.
Facilities: 2 restaurants • bar • business centre • gym • pool • QUAN Spa
Facilities: 4 restaurants and bars • health club • meeting rooms • indoor swimming pool
Room Features: 340 rooms • air-conditioning • tea/coffee facilities • iron/board • TV • mini-bar • safe • internet • hairdryer • bathrobes
Room Features: 467 rooms • air-conditioning • mini-bar • safe • tea station • Nespresso coffee machine • TV • hairdryer
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* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
SHANGHAI Luxury Hotels
FAIRMONT PEACE HOTEL from $202* per night
+
Includes breakfast. A renowned hotel in a premier location on the Bund, this legendary and lavish property overlooks Huangpu River, and boasts a history that overshadows that of any other hotel in the region. After extensive renovations Fairmont unveils an attentively restored icon, emanating its original splendour. Bask in the luxury of the hotel’s indulgent guest rooms and immerse yourself in its illustrious past. Facilities: 6 restaurants and lounges • health club • swimming pool • Willow Stream Spa • gift shops Room Features: 270 rooms • air-conditioning • mini-bar • safe • MP3 docking station • iron/board • TV • hairdryer
THE WESTIN from $171* per night
Rising above Shanghai’s historic Bund waterfront this iconic property offers a premier location in Shanghai with accessibility to the city’s main attractions. The international airport is a 45 minute drive from the hotel. Rooms have tasteful art deco décor and are designed to renew and rejuvenate. Facilities: 7 restaurants and bars • gym • jacuzzi • sauna • steam room • swimming pool • kids’ club • Banyan Tree Spa Room Features: 570 rooms • air-conditioning • Westin Heavenly Bed® • internet • TV • tea/coffee facilities
PUDONG SHANGRI-LA from $237* per night
Includes breakfast.
Includes breakfast.
The hotel is located in the heart of Shanghai and a stone’s throw to Nanjing Road. Facilities: 3 restaurants • café • bar • gym • CHUAN Spa • sauna • steam room • Jacuzzi • WiFi Room Features: 96 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • iPod dock • DVD player • tea/coffee facilities • hairdryer • WiFi
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
+
Includes breakfast.
THE LANGHAM, YANGTZE BOUTIQUE from $175* per night +
In an iconic art deco building with an enchanting façade, this boutique property has been designed to the glamour and grandeur of Shanghai past, when it was famed as the ‘Paris of the East’.
China
+
With memorable views of the Bund, Huangpu River and the futuristic Pudong district cityscape, the award-winning Pudong Shangri-La is the pre-eminent Shanghai hotel, offering warm, attentive Shangri-La service and world-class dining. Showcasing spacious, well-appointed rooms and suites spread between the hotel’s two signature buildings, the elegant River Wing and the exclusive Grand Tower. Facilities: 6 restaurants • 4 bars • CHI, The Spa • 2 health clubs • 2 swimming pools • outdoor tennis Room Features: 952 rooms • air-conditioning • mini-bar • safe • TV • tea/coffee facilities
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XIAN Hotels & Sightseeing
XIAN UNCOVERED 4 Days/3 Nights from $456* Includes accommodation at the Hengjia Goodworld Hotel, meals, transfers, sightseeing as specified and Englishspeaking local guide. Prices for other properties available on request. Once capital of ancient China, Xian is a meld of old and new from its collection of life-sized warriors and modern shopping malls.
Xian
Xian City Walls
Day 1: Xian Transfer to your hotel on arrival. Day 2: Xian Take a half day city tour, including the Shaanxi History Museum, ancient city walls and Great Mosque. B Day 3: Terracotta Warriors A trip highlight, journey to the life-sized warriors in all their glory. Then visit the Qin Tomb and the Neolithic village Banpo B L Day 4: Xian Transfer to the airport.
B
CITY SIGHTSEEING OPTIONS
Includes breakfast.
Per person from $ Terracotta Warriors, Qin Tomb & Banpo Neolithic Museum
$146
Terracotta Warriors Museum
$108
MT Huashan Tour
$248
Tang Dynasty Dinner & Show
$90
Museum, City Wall & Mosque
$96
Based on two people travelling
GRAND NOBLE HOTEL from $75* per night
Xian Hotel is located close to the city centre with convenient access to major tourist attractions such as the Shaanxi History Museum and the art gallery. Facilities: Restaurant • bar • gym • pool • massage services Room Features: 538 rooms • air-conditioning • safe • TV
Offering a great location, elegant guest rooms, first-class service and excellent value for money. The hotel is in central Xian, a short distance from the Bell Tower, with convenient access for shopping and sightseeing. Facilities: Restaurants • 2 bars • cafe • deli • meeting rooms • fitness room Room Features: 428 rooms • air-conditioning • mini-bar • TV • internet access • hairdryer
SOFITEL ON RENMIN SQUARE from $92* per night +
SHANGRI-LA XIAN from $128* per night
Includes breakfast.
Includes breakfast.
Includes breakfast.
Facilities: Restaurant • business centre Room Features: 111 rooms • air-conditioning • safe • TV • internet • hairdryer
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Includes breakfast.
MERCURE ON RENMIN SQUARE from $50* per night
Minutes away from the major shopping centres and tourist attractions, such as the Bell Tower, Mercure on Renmin Square utilises dining and recreational facilities of the fiveStar Sofitel Renmin Square property, located in the same complex.
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XIAN HOTEL from $45* per night
+
This is Xian’s premier five-star property. Xian International Airport and the Terracotta Warriors are both a 45 minute drive from the hotel and it is close to the bustling shopping district too.
Shangri-La Hotel, Xian has the very best of the city right on its doorstep. The hotel is within easy reach of many top tourist attractions, including the Terracotta Warriors Museum and Xian’s breathtaking city walls.
Facilities: 4 restaurants • 2 bars • business centre • gym • swimming pool • Jacuzzi • spa • sauna • thermal baths
Facilities: 4 Restaurants • bar • business centre • health club • pool • spa
Room Features: 432 rooms • air-conditioning • safe • mini-bar • TV • internet • hairdryer
Room Features: 386 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • mini bar • tea/coffee facilities • internet
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
GUILIN Hotels & Sightseeing
China
GUILIN UNCOVERED 4 Days/3 Nights from $561* Includes accommodation at The Fubo Hotel, meals, transfers, sightseeing as specified and English-speaking local guide. Prices for other properties available upon request.
Guilin
Discover the breath-taking limestone mountain scenery surrounding Guilin. Day 1: Guilin Arrive and transfer to your hotel. Day 2: Longsheng Drive into the countryside to the rice terraces of Longsheng. Meet hilltribe locals and walk the hills. B L Day 3: Li River Cruise & Yangshuo Depart downstream for a scenic cruise of the Li River to Yangshuo. Time to explore the town before returning to Guilin. B Day 4: Guilin Transfer to the airport.
FUBO HOTEL from $37* per night
Includes accommodation only.
BRAVO HOTEL from $58* per night
B
Includes breakfast.
CITY SIGHTSEEING OPTIONS Per person from $
Close to the banks of the Li River and next to Fubo Park, this hotel is in the centre of the city with shopping and sightseeing options nearby. The airport is a 30 minute drive away. Facilities: Restaurant • bar • coffee shop • business centre • beauty salon Room Features: 150 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • hairdryer • fridge
SHERATON GUILIN from $112* per night
Includes accommodation only. Along the banks of the Li River and in the heart of Guilin, this is the city’s most luxurious property with comfortable rooms. The airport is a 40 minute drive away. Facilities: Restaurant • lobby bar • coffee shop • gym • pool • sauna Room Features: 430 rooms • air-conditioning • internet • TV • mini-bar • safe • tea/coffee facilities • iron/board • hairdryer
Located on the banks of the picturesque Ronghu Lake in the historical part of the city. Excellent city centre location with the railway station only 3km away and 28km from the airport. Facilities: 3 restaurants • cafe • bar • health club • pool Room Features: 329 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • mini-bar • safe • hairdryer
Guilin Highlights
$82
Li River Cruise
$181
Longsheng Rice Terraces
$181
Yangshuo Bike Tour
$137
Night Walking Tour
$50
Based on two people travelling
LIJIANG WATERFALL HOTEL from $82* per night
SHANGRI-LA GUILIN from $144* per night
Includes breakfast.
Includes breakfast.
Located in the heart of Guilin and just a 30 minute drive from the airport, this unique property has a nightly waterfall that rushes from the top of the building to its foot! Facilities: Restaurant • gym • spa • jacuzzi Room Features: 646 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • mini-bar • safe • tea/coffee facilities • hairdryer • bathrobes
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
+
Overlooking the picturesque Li River, ShangriLa Hotel, Guilin is ideally located for both business and pleasure. Guilin's leading tourist attractions and the city's charming pedestrian tourist area, are all easily accessible. Facilities: 2 Restaurants • bar • health club • pool • spa Room Features: 449 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • mini bar • tea/coffee facilities • internet
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CHENGDU Tours & Sightseeing
Chengdu "Explore Sichuan’s key sites on this diverse tour."
SICHUAN EXPLORER 3 Days/2 Nights from $1046*
Includes accommodation, meals, transfers, sightseeing as specified, all entrance fees and English-speaking local guide.
Buddha at Leshan
PRIVATE TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • Visiting the pandas • The mammoth Buddha at Leshan • Sichuan’s mountain scenery • Fiery Sichuan cuisine Departs Chengdu: Daily. Note: This tour does not operate December-March.
LESHAN & DUJIANGYAN DAM from $337 Head out of Chengdu to visit the 71m high Maitreya Buddha at Leshan. Be in awe at the sheer size of this statue that was diligently carved for more than 90 years. Admire the beautiful Sichuan scenery and 3rd Century BC irrigation system at Dujiangyan Dam. L 40
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The spicy province of Sichuan is surrounded by lofty mountain plateaus, the lengthy Yangtze River and imposing Three Gorges. Chengdu sits as the capital and entry point and fascinates with its quaint tea houses, excellent museum and adorable pandas. Journey further and witness breathtaking temples and the Buddha at Leshan. Day 1: Chengdu Your tour starts with the fascinating Panda Breeding Centre where giant pandas are nursed from birth to breeding. Relax in a typical Chengdu tea house before uncovering the archaeological collection at Sangxingdui Museum. This evening, watch a Sichuan Opera performance. L Day 2: Chengdu – Mt Emei Depart Chengdu today for Leshan, site of the world’s largest outdoor seated Buddha. At 71m it took more than 90 years to carve.
Witness the statue from the river below and by walking down the steps that line its side. From here, drive to Mt Emei and check-in to your accommodation at the foot of the mountain. B L D Day 3: Mt Emei – Chengdu Mt Emei, one of the four sacred Buddhist mountains in China, with stunning scenery, natural wonders and Buddhist monuments, is a World Heritage Site. Take a cable car to Wannian Temple and enjoy the beautiful scenery and a delicious vegetarian lunch, cooked by the monks. Return by cable car and transfer back to Chengdu, stopping by the 3rd century BC irrigation system at Dujiangyan Dam. B L
Per person from $
$1180*
SANXINGDUI, PANDA CENTRE & TEA HOUSE
PANDA BREEDING CENTRE from $114
from
A half day tour to visit the Panda Breeding Centre where there are over 40 pandas. The exhibition room provides more information on pandas. The breeding centre is the best place to see and take pictures of pandas in the city. L
$169
Visit the archaeological collections at Sangxingdui Museum. Some of the artefacts date from over 4000 years ago, including a large collection of masks. You'll also visit one of Chengdu's tea houses, and see pandas at the Panda Breeding Centre. L
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
CHENGDU Hotels & Sightseeing
China
CHENGDU UNCOVERED 4 Days/3 Nights from $790* Includes accommodation at the Yinhe Dynasty Hotel, meals, transfers, sightseeing as specified, entrance fees and English-speaking local guide. Prices for other properties available upon request.
YINHE DYNASTY HOTEL from $68* per night
Includes breakfast.
TIBET HOTEL from $82* per night
Includes breakfast.
In the heart of the city, offering guests a convenient location from which to explore Chengdu. 30 minutes from the airport, the hotel features tastefully decorated, wellequipped rooms and an array of facilities and dining options.
On the banks of the Jinjiang River in Chengdu, five minutes from the railway station and 30 minutes from the airport. The hotel blends modern style with Tibet's ancient culture. Rooms are elegantly decorated with contemporary amenities.
Facilities: 4 restaurants • bar • indoor swimming pool • meeting rooms
Facilities: 2 restaurants • café • bar • beauty salon • meeting rooms • fitness centre • massage services
Room Features: 345 rooms • air-conditioning • mini-bar • safe • TV • hairdryer
Room Features: 276 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • internet access
Chengdu is alive and kicking with a population that delights in their teahouses, spicy cuisine and laid-back manners. Day 1: Chengdu Arrive into Chengdu and transfer to your city accommodation. Day 2: Chengdu Explore Chengdu on a full day tour, taking in the amazing pandas at the wellrun breeding centre, the ancient history of the region at Sanxingdui Museum and a bustling tea house. In the evening, why not consider a Sichuan Opera performance? B L Day 3: Leshan Head out of the city today to the 71m high Maitreya Buddha at Leshan. Be in awe at the sheer size of this statue that was diligently carved for more than 90 years. Also stop by the Dujiangyan Dam. B
L
Day 4: Chengdu Your tour concludes with an airport transfer.
CROWNE PLAZA CHENGDU from $108* per night +
SHANGRI-LA HOTEL from $215* per night
Includes breakfast.
Includes breakfast.
In the heart of the downtown area, opposite the famous "Chun Xi Lu" shopping street, the hotel offers elegantly appointed rooms and suites and an array of dining, leisure and entertainment venues. Facilities: 4 restaurants • bar • fitness centre • indoor swimming pool • tour desk • meeting rooms Room Features: 402 rooms • air-conditioning • mini bar • safe • TV • tea facilities • hairdryer
+
A luxury hotel situated in the cosmopolitan city centre, offering modern grandeur and legendary Shangri-La hospitality. Indulge in the lavish accommodation and dining options and enjoy the tranquility that only Shangri-La can offer. Facilities: Restaurant • 2 cafes • 2 bars • indoor swimming pool • CHI, The Spa • health club • tennis • beauty salon Room Features: 593 rooms • air-conditioning • safe • TV • internet access
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
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TIBET Overview
Tibet Tibet: the Land of Snows, the roof of the world. For centuries this mysterious Buddhist kingdom, locked away in its mountain fastness of the Himalaya, has exercised a unique hold on the imagination of the West. Tibet is without doubt one of the most remarkable places to visit in Asia. It offers fabulous monastery sights, breathtaking high-altitude treks, stunning views of the world’s highest mountains and one of the most likeable peoples you will ever meet. There's Gyantse, in the Nyang-chu Valley, famed for the largest chörten (stupa) in Tibet, and hiking in Yarlung Valley, widely considered the cradle of Tibetan civilization. Base yourself in Tsetang and marvel at the monkey cave in Gangpo Ri or walk the monastery kora (pilgrim path). Your trip will take you past glittering mountain turquoise lakes and over high passes draped with prayer flags. Find a quiet spot in a prayer hall full of chanting monks, hike past the ruins of remote hermitages or make an epic overland trip along some of the world’s wildest roads. The scope for adventure is limitless. For many people, Tibet is a uniquely spiritual place. Those moments of peace, fleeting and precious, when everything seems to be in its proper place, seem to come more frequently in Tibet, whether inspired by the devotion apparent in the face of a pilgrim or the dwarfing scale of a beautiful landscape. Tibet can truly claim to be on a higher plain. This remarkable place is changing fast. Investment and tourism are flooding into the region, inspired by a new train line from China, and GDP is rising even faster than the train tracks to Lhasa. Unfortunately the modernisation is coming first and foremost on China’s terms. China’s current wave of tourists has been dubbed the ‘second invasion’, with a slew of new hotels, restaurants and bars set up and run by Chinese for Chinese. Once the remote preserve of hardy backpackers, it is now local Chinese tourists who dominate the queues for the Potala and Jokhang. Lhasa is booming and even small towns across the plateau are being modernised and rebuilt. With every passing month Tibet looks less and less like itself. The myths and propaganda that have grown up around Tibet can be so enticing, so pervasive and so entrenched that it’s hard to see the place through balanced eyes. The reality is that Tibet is no fragile Shangri-la but a resilient land underpinned by a unique culture and faith. But you are never far from the reality of politics here. For anyone who travels with their eyes open, a visit to Tibet will be memorable and fascinating, but also a sobering experience. It’s a place that’s likely to change the way you see the world and that will remain with you for years to come. And that’s surely the definition of the very best kind of travel.
OUR TOP PICKS FOR TIBET 1 Lhasa The booming Holy City, with the Barkhor circuit, sacred Jokhang Temple and Potala Palace 42
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CHINA
TIBET Lhasa Gyantse Sakya
Mt Everest
INDIA 2 Drepung & Sera Monasteries Once the largest and second-largest monasteries, respectively, in the world 3 Ganden Monastery Stunningly located monastery, a day trip from Lhasa on the pilgrim bus 4 Tashilhunpo Monastery Perhaps Tibet’s best-preserved and most spectacular monastery, and seat of the Panchen Lama 5 Gyantse Incredible multistorey chörten, the pinnacle of Tibetan architecture, and nearby fort taken by the British in 1904
WHEN TO GO Climate is not such a major consideration when visiting Tibet as many people might imagine. For a place nicknamed ‘The Land of Snows’, there’s a surprising lack of snow. Spring, early summer and late autumn are probably the best times to visit Tibet. March is a politically sensitive month in the country and there is occasional tightening of restrictions on travellers heading into Tibet at this time, but the weather’s pretty good. April brings reliable weather in eastern Tibet and discounts on accommodation and vehicle rental in Lhasa. Mt Everest is particularly clear during April and May. From mid-July through to the end of September the monsoon starts to affect parts of Tibet. Trips to Mt Kailash can be undertaken from April to October, although September and October are considered the best months. October is also the best time to make a trip out to the east. Lhasa and its environs don’t get really cold until the end of November. It’s worth trying to time your trip with one of Tibet’s festivals. New Year (Losar) in January or February is an excellent time to be in Lhasa, as is the Saga Dawa festival in April or May. Content courtesy of Lonely Planet.
TIBET Private TourTIBET & TrainOverview Journey
China
TASTE OF TIBET 4 Days/3 Nights from $767*
Includes accommodation, meals, transfers, sightseeing as specified, Tibet travel permit and English-speaking local guide.
Potala Palace
PRIVATE TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • Wandering through Potala Palace’s many halls • The electric atmosphere at the Barkhor Circuit
“The perfect introduction to Tibet’s charms.” Lhasa is one of the world’s highest cities at 3650m and is rife with friendly locals, religious structures and old-world streets. Day 1: Lhasa On arrival, transfer to your accommodation situated in the bustling Tibetan Quarter.
Departs Lhasa: Daily.
Take time to rest and acclimatise this afternoon to the city’s high altitude. Day 2: Lhasa Explore the holy Jokhang Temple, the region’s most significant. Pilgrims flock from all over Tibet to worship here and to walk to the Barkhor Circuit that circumambulates the temple. Spend time here watching the pilgrims, joining in their path or just sit down and soak up the atmosphere.
BEIJING
End the day with Sera Monastery where monks passionately debate the Buddhist scriptures in a central courtyard. B L Day 3: Lhasa Be prepared for the awe-inspiring Potala Palace today, with its many rooms and expansive outlook. Once the winter home of the Dalai Lama, it is now Tibet’s most important tourism site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Follow this with lunch and some free time to get lost in the Tibetan Quarter to uncover more treasures of Lhasa. B L Day 4: Lhasa Your touring concludes today with a transfer to the airport or train station for your departure from Tibet. B
Per person from $
$982*
TIBETAN TRAIN EXTENSION 3 Days/2 Nights from $583*
Xining Lanzhou Xian
CHINA
Includes soft-sleeper 4-berth train from Lhasa to Beijing and one transfer in Beijing as specified.
Lhasa
INDEPENDENT TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
“Journey through the stark, yet spectacular, landscape of eastern and central China on this extraordinary train journey.”
Qinghai–Tibet railway
• The Qinghai Plateau’s scenery • Meeting locals and other travellers on the journey Departs Lhasa: Daily. Note: This train journey must be packaged with a Tibet tour due to Chinese legal requirements. This package can be amended to end in Shanghai, Xian or Chengdu at amended costs. Train tickets travelling to Lhasa from mainland China are strictly limited due to government restrictions.
The Lhasa to Beijing train line offers alternative access to Tibet. The journey takes close to 50 hours, traversing over 4000 km, and is spent on a modern express train designed to travel at altitude. Day 1: Lhasa Board your train this morning for the journey across China. Pass through the stark mountains of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau at over 4000 km above sea level. Day 2: Loesis Plateau Today’s journey takes you across Loesis Plateau passing through Xining, once chief hub on the old caravan route to Tibet. Day 3: Beijing Arrive this morning into Beijing West, one of Asia’s largest stations. Transfer to your pre-booked accommodation.
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
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Overview HONG KONG
Hong Kong EYE OF THE TIGER
CHINA
On first acquaintance Hong Kong can overwhelm. Navigate its teeming, tightly packed sidewalks and you’re met at every turn with neon signage, steam-filled canteens, molasses-slow traffic and a Babel of chatter. Once this first sensory wave has rolled over you, though, take a deep breath and start swimming with the current, because you’ll find Hong Kong is a place to delight in. Utterly safe and fantastically well organised, it offers little moments of perfection. You may find them on a plastic stool enjoying a bargain bowl of beef brisket soup or simply gazing at the thrilling harbour vistas. You’ll find them taking afternoon tea in the cool of a five-star hotel lobby or enjoying balmy open-air beers in the party zones. Hong Kong can nudge you out of your comfort zone but usually rewards you for it, so try the stinky beancurd, sample the shredded jellyfish, brave the hordes at the city centre horseracing and join in the dawn tai chi. Escape the city limits and other experiences await – watching the sun rise from a remote mountain peak, hiking surf-beaten beaches or exploring deserted islands. If it’s pampering you’re after, money can buy the ultimate luxuries in a city well used to serving its tiny, moneyed elite. Yet Hong Kong is also a city of simple pleasures. Most often it’s the least pricey experiences – a $2 tram or ferry ride, a whiff of incense curling from temple rafters, savouring fishing-village sundowners and seafood – that are the stuff of priceless memories.
STAR CITIZEN Jackie Chan tells Lonely Planet what he loves about his hometown. “The first place you should go in Hong Kong is Victoria Peak so that you can look down and see how amazing the city looks from up above. Next, take a ride on the Star Ferry; it’s the best deal in Hong Kong. Other places I suggest you go are Nathan Road, the New Territories, and the outlying islands. Although Hong Kong is small in size, there is a lot to see, so make sure you stay for a long time!”
OUR TOP PICKS FOR HONG KONG 1 The Peak Ride the hair-raising tram for unbeatable harbour and city views 2 Victoria Harbour Float on one of the world's busiest and most exotic harbours 3 Happy Valley Listen to the thundering hoofs and cheering crowds right in the city centre 4 Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple Divine the future alongside worshippers at the city's most interesting temple 5 Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade Spectacular harbour and skyline vistas day and night
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New Territories
Kowloon Lantau
Victoria Peak Aberdeen
Hong Kong Island Stanley
HOT TIPS: SHOPPING While any international brand worthy of its logo has at least one outlet here, Hong Kong’s reputation as a bargain hunter’s paradise is largely a thing of the past. So what’s worth shopping for? Clothing (off the peg or tailored), shoes, jewellery, luggage and, to a lesser degree nowadays, cameras and electronic goods are the city’s strong suits. Excellent art and antiques shops also abound. Bargaining is a way of life at retail outlets throughout Hong Kong, with the exception of department stores and clothing chain shops, where the prices marked are the prices paid. Some visitors operate on the theory that you can get the goods for half the price originally quoted. Many Hong Kong residents believe that if you can bargain something down that low, then you shouldn’t be buying from that shop anyway.
WHEN TO GO Hong Kong has a subtropical climate characterised by hot, humid summers and cool, relatively dry winters. October, November and most of December are the best months to visit. Temperatures are moderate, the skies are clear and the sun shines. January and February are cloudy and cold but dry. It’s warmer from March to May, but the humidity is high. The sweltering heat and humidity from June to August can make sightseeing a sweaty proposition, and it is also the rainy season. September is a grand month if you like drama; the threat of a typhoon seems to loom every other day.
Content courtesy of Lonely Planet.
HONG KONG
China
Celebrate Hong Kong HONG KONG CULTURAL CELEBRATIONS 13APR – 28APR’12 Celebrate the birthday of Tin Hau on 25 Apr in Luen Long and Tsing Yi, or the birthday of Lord Buddha on 10 May – with festivities at Po Lin Monastery on Lantau Island, with Buddha bathing, a cultural show and Shaolin Kung Fu. Also in May is the Cheng Chau Bun Festival with a float procession and bun scrambling competition, and the birthday of Tam Kung featuring a lion and dragon dance procession.
HONG KONG SUMMER SPECTACULAR MID JUN – 31AUG’12 The International Dragon Boat Races begin in early Jul, including welcome and celebration parties, a Dragon Boat Exhibition, a Bath Tug Race and Dragon Boat race. From mid Jun – 31 Aug, the Mega Shopping Sprees are a fantastic and exciting shopping experience, offering visitors an array of shopping privileges in all the malls, shops and departments stores around town.
HONG KONG WINE & DINE MONTH NOV’12 As the culinary capital of Asia, Hong Kong has expanded its Wine and Dine month which kicks off with a four-day Wine and Dine Festival. Celebrate throughout November with streets carnivals in Lan Kwai Fong and SoHo in Central and the Sai Kung Seafood Festival. Hong Kong’s major hotels and party hotspots will also be offering various territory-wide food and wine promotions.
HONG KONG HALLOWEEN TREATS SEP – 31OCT’12 Trick or Treat! It’s Halloween Hong Kong-style. A funky long mix of happening street parties, ‘dressed up’ scary attractions, including Hong Kong Disneyland and Ocean Park, bars and restaurants serving up Halloween-themed food and drink specials and ghoulish offers at the city’s shopping malls.
HONG KONG WINTERFEST 23NOV’12 – 1JAN’13 Christmastime is a magical time to be in Hong Kong, as a warm and happy spirit embraces the city. You will be awed by skyscrapers and their fantastic illuminations. The city’s malls and shops are all decked out in their fantastic Christmas finery, plus there will be lots of wonderful seasonal promotions on offer.
CHINESE NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS FEB’13 The Chinese New Year is always a wonderful and special occasion. Festivities involve flamboyant flower markets, a New Year Night Parade, a fascinating fiesta, fabulous fireworks, lively sporting events. Immerse yourself in cultural activities, visit fortune tellers, try traditional Chinese New Year snacks and indulge in fabulous shopping opportunities.
For detailed destination information and our useful country fact file, please visit adventureworld.co.nz
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China
HONG KONG Sightseeing
Nan Lian Garden
Tian Tan Buddha
Aberdeen
HONG KONG ISLAND from $41 This half day tour is perfect for first time visitors to Hong Kong. It includes a visit to Victoria Peak for a spectacular panoramic view over the city, and Stanley Market which is famous for bargain shopping. It then returns along the coast via Repulse Bay and Deep Water Bay to Aberdeen, the floating fishing village (optional Sampan rides are available at an additional cost). A stop at a local jewellery factory near Aberdeen offers a chance to view the fine art and craftsmanship.
LANTAU ISLAND from $151
HORSE RACING from $176
A delightful experience and the best way to explore Lantau. The fast and scenic drive along the expressway and the Tsing Ma Bridge soon takes you to this unspoilt island. Lantau with its natural beaches, simplistic fishing village, peaceful monastery neighboured by the world's largest Buddha is an ideal destination for a wonderful day. The tour includes a visit to Tai-O Fishing Village, travelling via the Tsing Ma Bridge, and Po Lin Monastery, with a Chinese vegetarian lunch. Your tour ends with a spectacular ride aboard the Skyrail cable car, offering stunning views going down to Tung Chung. L
You will be transferred to the Sha Tin Racecourse and guided to the Visitors' Box within the Hong Kong Jockey Club's Members' Enclosures where you can enjoy a buffetstyle meal with unlimited serving of drinks. Watch the exhilarating races and bet from the comfort of your own seat or step outside onto the connecting balcony for a more detailed view. Tour operates Sep - Jul only.
Temple Street Markets
St Pauls Cathedral
MACAU from $153 A 75 minute Jetfoil, Turbocat or Catamaran ride from Hong Kong brings you to the former Portuguese enclave of Macau. Visit Kum Yam Temple, then to Penha Hill for a sweeping view of the city. You'll see Barrier Gate, the border with China, and Macau's landmark, the ruins of St Paul Cathedral. After enjoying lunch (western cuisine), you will have some free time to visit Macau's famous Casino Lisboa, before returning to Hong Kong. L 46
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Kadoorie Farm
MORNING TRAIL TO THE HIDDEN OASIS from $92 Explore a lush countryside you never knew existed and learn about the stories of rural Hong Kong on this half day tour. Century old villages, a modern day farm, ancient monastery and untouched fields are woven into the rolling hills of the New Territories.
EVENING NIGHTS OF DELIGHTS from $142 Tour begins in delightful twilight and first stop is a visit to the famous and popular Open Air "Temple Street" Markets, where you can shop for bargains. Enjoy a sumptuous Chinese dinner at the Jumbo Floating restaurant before taking a drive to the mid level of Victoria Peak for spectacular views of the harbour lights. D
Hear the birds chirp, enjoy the breezes and step into a green utopia for a half day escapade. * All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
HONG KONG Hotels & Sightseeing
China
HONG KONG UNCOVERED 4 Days/3 Nights from $408* Includes accommodation at BP International House, meals, transfers, sightseeing as specified and Englishspeaking local guide. Prices for other properties are available on request.
BP INTERNATIONAL HOUSE from $79* per night
THE CITYVIEW from $79* per night
Includes accommodation only.
Includes accommodation only.
The Jade and Temple Street markets are within walking distance and there is a MTR station nearby. The airport is a 35 minute drive away and the Macau ferry terminal and Kowloon Station are in the vicinity, making this a great budget option. Facilities: Restaurant • bar • safety deposit box at reception Room Features: 529 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • internet • fridge • safe • hairdryer
A hive of activity, Hong Kong is an enthralling destination and deserves a minimum of four days to soak it all up. Day 1: Hong Kong Arrive and transfer to your hotel.
In the heart of Kowloon, with nearby MTR station access, the towering Cityview Hotel has simple, tasteful rooms with a good level of service. The airport is 45 minutes by road and Nathan Road is within walking distance. Facilities: Restaurant • café • bar • swimming pool • gym • sauna • business centre Room Features: 413 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • mini-bar • tea/coffee facilities • hairdryer • WiFi
Day 2: Hong Kong Take an introductory city tour to uncover the secrets of this thriving metropolis. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure. B Day 3: Hong Kong Take the day to wander Hong Kong at your own pace, perhaps walking a hiking trail, exploring the local shops and markets or dining on delicious dim sum. In the evening, take a cocktail cruise on Hong Kong’s harbour. B Day 4: Hong Kong Your tour concludes with an airport transfer. B
HOLIDAY INN GOLDEN MILE KOWLOON from $141* per night
PARK HOTEL from $100* per night
Includes accommodation only.
Includes accommodation only.
Holiday Inn is located right in the heart of Kowloon’s business and shopping districts on Nathan’s Road. Facilities: 4 Restaurants • Bar • rooftop swimming pool • fitness centre Room Features: 614 rooms • air-conditioning • mini bar • TV
Monk, Sera Monastery
Ideally located in the heart of Kowloon’s entertainment and shopping district, the Park Hotel is only five minutes from the nearest MTR and the Star Ferry terminal is just a short walk. The recently refurbished rooms offer simplicity and elegance and are well-equipped. Facilities: Café • lounge • business centre • internet Room Features: 430 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • internet • safe • mini-bar • tea/coffee facilities • hairdryer
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
Kumbum Stupa
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China
HONG KONG Hotels
Repulse Bay
THE KOWLOON HOTEL from $97* per night
Includes accommodation only. Directly connected to the Tsimshatsui MTR station and within a 10 minute walk to the Star Ferry terminal, this property’s selling point is its prime location. Hong Kong International Airport is a 45 minute drive away. Facilities: Restaurant • café • bar • business centre Room Features: 743 rooms • air-conditioning • internet • TV • tea/coffee facilities • safe • mini-bar • hairdryer
NOVOTEL CENTURY from $106* per night
Includes accommodation only. Novotel Hong Kong Century on Hong Kong Island is in the heart of Wanchai, the bustling commercial, shopping and entertainment district.
NOVOTEL NATHAN ROAD from $100* per night
THE LUXE MANOR from $134* per night
Includes accommodation only.
Includes breakfast.
On the main thoroughfare of Kowloon, Nathan Road, the famous Jade Market and Temple Street night markets are within walking distance from this hotel. The MTR is within walking distance and the airport is 30km from the hotel. Facilities: Restaurant • bar • free internet at reception • business centre • gym Room Features: 389 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • internet • tea/coffee facilities • safe • mini-bar • hairdryer • bathrobes
Room Features: 159 rooms • air-conditioning • internet • TV • safe • mini-bar • tea/coffee facilities
EAST HOTEL HONG KONG from $110* per night
Includes accommodation only.
Includes breakfast.
Facilities: 2 Restaurants • Bar • swimming pool • health club
Located on Hong Kong Island between the shopping of Causeway Bay and Quarry Bay, the hotel is within easy access to all of Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. Rooms are tastefully decorated, with most boasting views of Victoria Harbour.
Room Features: 511 rooms • air-conditioning • mini-bar • TV • WiFi
Facilities: 3 restaurants • 1 bar • swimming pool • fitness centre • function rooms
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Facilities: Restaurant • bar • business centre • gym
HARBOUR PLAZA NORTH POINT from $73* per night
Room Features: 669 rooms • air-conditioning • mini-bar • safe • TV • WiFi • tea/coffee facilities • hairdryer 48
Located in Tsimshatsui, the premier shopping and entertainment centre in Kowloon. The Luxe Manor is a unique boutique hotel with funky décor, a welcoming reception and friendly staff. Within walking distance are the night markets, MTR and trendy Knutsford Terrace restaurant/bar area.
EAST is located adjacent to Tai Koo MTR, Cityplaza, the largest shopping centre on Hong Kong Island. All rooms and suites feature harbour or urban views with WiFi access throughout the hotel. Facilities: 1 restaurant • 1 bar • swimming pool • 24 hours fitness facilities • Complimentary WiFi Room Features: 345 rooms • air-conditioning • mini-bar • safe • TV • tea/coffee facilities • iHome & iPod touch®
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
HONG KONG Luxury Hotels
China
Hong Kong
HARBOUR GRAND KOWLOON from $128* per night +
KOWLOON SHANGRI-LA from $225* per night
Includes accommodation only.
Includes accommodation only.
On Kowloon’s waterfront, in Hung Hom, this property represents excellent value. There is a free shuttle that regularly takes guests to Tsimshatsui for easy access to the main sites. Rooms are well-sized for Hong Kong and there is a wealth of food and beverage options. Facilities: 5 restaurants • 2 bars • business centre • gym • rooftop pool • Jacuzzi Room Features: 554 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • internet • safe • mini-bar • hairdryer • tea/coffee facilities
Overlooking Victoria Harbour, this hotel is close to the shopping and entertainment district of east Tsimshatsui. Rooms are spacious and have floor-to-ceiling windows commanding the breathtaking harbour views. Facilities: 4 restaurants • bar • pool • sauna • steam • Jacuzzi • spa Room Features: 700 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • internet • safe • tea/coffee facilities
HARBOUR GRAND HONG KONG from $133* per night +
THE MIRA HONG KONG from $160* per night
Includes accommodation only.
Includes accommodation only.
Ideally located in the heart of Hong Kong Island, this is one of Hong Kong’s premier deluxe properties. Awarded ‘Best New City Hotel 2009’ all rooms offer unobstructed views of Victoria Harbour. It is within walking distance to MTR Station.
+
+
Overlooking Kowloon Park in Tsimshatsui, The Mira Hong Kong is a modern traveller's indulgence. Hip interiors, tech-savvy room features, innovative cuisine, and passionate service.
Facilities: 5 restaurants • bar • pool • gym • Jacuzzi • sauna • I-Spa • business centre
Rooms are designed to ignite every one of your senses with vibrant colours, spacious interiors, ambient lighting and the newest ondemand features.
Room Features: 828 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • bathrobes • tea/ coffee facilities • iPod connection • safe • mini-bar
Facilities: 3 restaurants • 2 bars • garden lounge • WiFi • spa centre • indoor swimming pool • steam room • jacuzzi • sauna Room Features: 492 rooms • air-conditioning • mini-bar • safe • TV • iPod Bose dock • free WiFi • 500GB personal computer • in-room Nokia My Mobile • hairdryer
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
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CountryMACAU China Tour Accommodation Overview Type
Macau Macau, the first European enclave in Asia – established by the Portuguese and now a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China – is a cultural two-face with a more laidback and hedonistic streak than its sister SAR of Hong Kong. It is uniquely Chinese, but with an amicable Mediterranean charm. In the last few years gambling in Macau has taken off like wildfire, drawing millions of Chinese punters to spend money in the only place where casinos are legal in China.
WHEN TO GO Macau’s climate is similar to Hong Kong’s, with one major difference: there is a delightfully cool sea breeze on warm summer evenings along the waterfront. The subtropical climate can make it a punishingly hot and humid destination during the summer months of June to midSeptember. Summer is also typhoon season, when tropical storms sweep rain and high winds off the South China Sea. The best time to go climate-wise is in early spring (March and April) or late autumn (October and November), when the days are generally warm, fresh and the air often clearer. Things can cool down a good deal in winter, when it can often be overcast and temperatures may even feel chilly enough to don warmer layers.
It is now commonplace to refer to Macau as the Vegas of the East. Indeed, Macau has long since surpassed its American rival in gambling income. But Macau is much more than casinos. The 450year Portuguese influence is still vivid: cobbled backstreets, baroque churches, ancient stone fortresses, art deco apartment buildings, and restful parks and gardens are everywhere, intermixed with numerous Chinese temples and shrines along the way. Food has always been one of the prime motives for gourmets to make the trip to Macau. Apart from the new fine-dining scenes that have sprung up in big resorts, the unpretentious restaurants that serve hearty and home-style Portuguese and Macanese dishes are still the culinary draw card.
OUR TOP PICKS FOR MACAU 1 Ruins of the Church of St Paul The fine carvings on this church are captivating historical fragments 2 Grand Lisboa Casino This spectacular folly is the last word in overthe-top glitz 3 Coloane Village Sample Macau’s quieter side, and explore the vivid Chapel of St Francis Xavier 4 Monte Fort The old cannons command fine views from this atmospheric fortress, which now houses a fascinating museum 5 Portuguese food, Taipa Island Hands down the best selection of Portuguese and Macanese food in Macau, including delicious eggcustard tarts
Ruins of the Church of St Paul, Macau
50
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Content courtesy of Lonely Planet.
MACAU Tour Accommodation Hotels & Sightseeing Type Country China
ESSENTIAL MACAU 3 Days/2 Nights from $345* Includes accommodation at Holiday Inn Macau, meals as indicated, transfers, sightseeing as specified with Englishspeaking local guide. Prices for other properties available on request.
HOLIDAY INN MACAU from $96* per night
Includes breakfast.
GRAND EMPEROR HOTEL from $102* per night Includes breakfast.
In a prime position, close to both the ferry terminal and the city centre and very accessible for public transport. Rooms are contemporary and well-maintained, equipped with all amenities for a comfortable stay. Facilities: 2 restaurants • bar • fitness centre • indoor swimming pool • meeting rooms Room Features: 323 rooms • air-conditioning • mini-bar • safe • tea/coffee facilities • TV • hairdryer
In the heart of Macau’s entertainment and commercial district, ten minutes from the ferry terminal, the Grand Emperor Hotel’s larger than average rooms are tastefully decorated with traditional art works and redefine style and elegance. Facilities: 3 restaurants • bar • nightclub • Emperor Palace Casino • tour desk • gym Room Features: 300 rooms • air-conditioning • mini-bar • safe • TV • tea/coffee facilities • hairdryer
A fusion of Mediterranean and Asian cuisine, lifestyle and culture, make Macau an interesting, fun and exciting place to visit. Day 1: Macau On arrival make your own way to your hotel. Day 2: Macau Make your way to the ferry terminal to join the city tour of Macau, taking in the islands most important sights including Barrier Gate, Ma Kok Temple, the Ruins of St Paul and Casion. Day 3: Macau Your tour ends.
SIGHTSEEING OPTION Per person from $ Macau City Tour
$153
Drive up to Penha Hill for a magnificent view of the city. Continue to Barrier Gate at the border between Macau and China. Then, visit the Ma Kok Temple.
GRAND HYATT from $172* per night
Includes breakfast.
VENETIAN MACAO from $177* per night
After lunch, visit the Ruins of St.Paul’s which is a landmark of Macau and walk to Leal Senado Square. Then, drive to Macau Tower, followed by free time to visit Casion.
Return transfers are included from Macau Ferry Terminal. L
Includes breakfast.
Grand Hyatt Macau, located at City of Dreams, an integrated urban entertainment resort on Cotai, is conveniently placed between the outer lying islands of Coloane and Taipa. The hotel reflects the energy and exciting cultural fusion that makes Macau, a former Portuguese colony, unique and a dynamic destination.
Large enough to hold ninety Boeing 747 jumbo jets, nowhere else in Asia will you find such a rare combination of facilities, attractions and amenities than at this 3,000 suite flagship property.
Facilities: 2 Restaurants • Bar • swimming pool • fitness centre Monk, Sera Monastery Room Features: 791 rooms • air-conditioning • mini bar • TV • WiFi • spa • shuttle bus
Room Features: 3000 rooms • airconditioning • mini bar • TV
Facilities: 30 Restaurants • Bar • rooftop swimming pool • fitness centre • mini golf • health & wellness centre • travel centre
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
Kumbum Stupa
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Japan
Overview
Japan When you hear the word 'Japan', what do you think of? Does your mind fill with images of ancient temples or futuristic cities? Do you see visions of mist-shrouded hills or lightning-fast bullet trains? Do you think of suit-clad businessmen or kimono-clad geisha? Whatever image you have of Japan, it's probably accurate, because it's all there.
Sapporo
HONSHU
JAPAN
There are many misconceptions about Japan. For example, many people believe that Japan is one of the world's most expensive countries. In fact, it's cheaper to travel in Japan than in much of North America or Western Europe. Others think that Japan is impenetrable or even downright difficult. The fact is, Japan is one of the easiest countries in which to travel. It is, simply put, a place that will remind you why you started travelling in the first place. If traditional culture is your thing, you can spend weeks in cities such as Kyoto and Nara, gorging yourself on temples, shrines, kabuki, Ó (stylised dance-drama), tea ceremonies and museums packed with treasures from Japan's rich artistic heritage. Kyoto is the storehouse of Japan’s traditional culture and the stage on which much of Japanese history was played out. With 17 Unesco World Heritage sites, more than 1600 Buddhist temples and over 400 Shintó shrines, Kyoto is also one of the world’s most culturally rich cities. Indeed, it is fair to say that Kyoto ranks with Paris, London and Rome as one of those cities that everyone should see at least once in their lives. And, needless to say, it should rank near the top of any Japan itinerary. If modern culture and technology is your thing, Japan's cities are an absolute wonderland - an easy peek into the future of the human race, complete with trend-setting cafés and fabulous restaurants. Then there's the food: whether it's impossibly fresh sushi in Tokyo, perfectly battered tempura in Kyoto, or a hearty bowl of rómen in Osaka, if you like eating you're going to love Japan. Life in Tokyo moves at a well-oiled clip, with an energy that borders on mania and an obsession with newness that seems to make all ideas quickly obsolete. Fashions begin to fade almost as soon as they are plucked from clothes hangers, and keitai (mobile phones) are traded up for each latest technological advancement. Outside the cities, you'll find natural wonders the length and breadth of the archipelago. From the coral reefs of Okinawa to the ski-resort of Niseko, Japan has more than enough natural wonders to compete with its cultural treasures. But for many visitors, the real highlight of their visit to Japan is the gracious hospitality of the Japanese themselves. 52
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HOKKAIDO
MT FUJI Hiroshima Nagasaki
Kyoto Osaka
TOKYO
Takayama
SHIKOKU
KYUSHU
OUR TOP PICKS FOR JAPAN 1 Kyoto See beautiful temples, shrines and gardens in the cultural heart of Japan 2 Tokyo Japan's not-to-be-missed quirky, curious cosmopolis that glitters and pulses with constant energy 3 Nara Check out Japan's first permanent capital which boasts eight World Heritage sites 4 Takayama Visit this charming town of ancient traditions and eclectic cuisine amid refreshing mountain scenery
WHEN TO GO Without a doubt, the best times to visit Japan are the climatically stable seasons of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Spring is the time when Japan’s famous cherry trees (sakura) burst into bloom. Starting from Kyóshú sometime in March, the sakura zensen (cherry tree blossom line) advances northward, usually passing the main cities of Honshú in early April. Once the sakura bloom, their glory is brief, usually lasting only a week. Autumn is an equally good time to travel, with pleasant temperatures and soothing colours. Travelling during either winter or summer is a mixed bag – midwinter (December to February) weather can be cold, particularly on the Sea of Japan coasts of Honshú and in Hokkaidó, while the summer months (June to August) are generally hot and often humid. Also keep in mind that peak holiday seasons, particularly Golden Week (late April to early May) and the mid-August O-Bon (Festival of the Dead), are extremely popular for domestic travel and can be problematic in terms of reservations and crowds. Likewise, everything in Japan basically shuts down during Shógatsu (New Year period).
Content courtesy of Lonely Planet.
Independent Tours Japan
Tea Ceremony
"Experience Japan’s culture and explore its many temples.”
JAPAN’S GOLDEN ROUTE 9 Days/8 Nights from $4345*
Includes 8 nights accommodation, meals as specified, return airport transfers, 7 day Japan Rail Pass, All transport between destinations, English speaking local guide in Tokyo on Day 2 and Kyoto on Day 7 including entrance fees and transport.
Meiji Jingu Shrine
This tour immerses travellers in Japan’s distinct culture, both old and new, beginning in dynamic Tokyo. This trip takes you to see beautiful vistas of Mt. Fuji, the cultural capital of Kyoto, home to 17 UNESCO World Heritage sights and finishing with some temple hopping in Nara. Day 1: Arrive Tokyo Arrive in Tokyo at any time.
INDEPENDENT TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • Traditional tea ceremony • Scenic boat trip along the Sumida River • Explore Mt Fuji and Hakone National Park
Departs Tokyo: Daily.
Day 4: Hakone and Mt Fuji Travel to Hakone, gateway to Mt Fuji and home to the surrounding National Park. Stay in traditional ryokan accommodation and enjoy a sumptuous multi course kaiseki meal.
JAPAN
Mt Fuji Kyoto
Day 2: Tokyo Begin the day with a stroll through HamaRikyu Teien, a former private garden of an Edo Period. Witness a short traditional tea ceremony, and take a boat cruise along the Sumida River. Visit Tokyo's old town, Asakusa, home to Sensoji Temple and many traditional shops. Continue onto Omotesando, the city's high-end fashion zone before ending the day at historic Meiji Shrine. B D Day 3: Tokyo Today is free to explore Tokyo. Make an early start and visit the famous Tsukji Fish Market or visit Tokyo’s world class museums and galleries.
• Stay in traditional ryokan accommodation
B
Tokyo
Day 7: Kyoto Explore the former imperial city with your local guide, utilise Kyoto’s comprehensive bus system to visit some of Kyoto’s World Heritage sites. After lunch visit Kyomizu (pure water) temple and then take a stroll through the atmospheric Higashiyama district. B Day 8: Kyoto Take a short trip by train to Nara, for 74 years during the 8th century Nara was Japan’s capital and many of the temples and shrines built at that time still remain. It’s recommended to visit the Todaiji Temple, the world’s largest wooden temple and home to Japan’s largest Buddha. B Day 9: Kyoto The tour ends today with a transfer by direct train to Kansai Airport. B
D
Day 5: Mt Fuji Explore all that the Fuji Hakone National Park has to offer and take advantage of the numerous forms of transport on offer throughout the park. Ride the cable car up Mt Owakudani and take the Hakone Tozan train as it zig zags through the mountains. Don’t miss the chance to soak in an outdoor onsen. B D
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
Day 6: Mt Fuji – Kyoto Enjoy one last soak in an onsen before undertaking the 2 hour journey by bullet train to Japan’s cultural capital. This afternoon visit a beautifully restored machiya (traditional wooden townhouse) and learn about Japanese culture and dressed by a professional kimono dresser and participate in a tea ceremony. B
Per person from $
$5121*
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53
Japan
Independent Tour
Teahouse, Keroku-en Gardens, Kanazawa
"A tour uncovering both the fascinating old and new faces of Japan."
HIGHLIGHTS OF JAPAN 14 Days/13 Nights from $6033*
Includes 13 nights accommodation, meals as specified, return airport transfers, 7 day Japan Rail Pass, all transport between destinations, English speaking local guide in Tokyo on Day 2 and Kyoto on Day 12 including entrances fees and transport.
Geisha
Experience some of Japan’s authentic and defining cultural pastimes, such as staying in a traditional ryokan. Discover ancient craft techniques still practiced today and explore the many shrines, temples and architecture of Kyoto. Day 1: Arrive Tokyo Arrive in Tokyo at any time.
INDEPENDENT TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • Cruise down the Sumida Gawa River to Hamarikyu-tien • Hida Alpine regine • Japanese style ryokan accommodation • Hiroshima Departs Tokyo: Daily.
JAPAN
Kanazawa
Takayama Tokyo
Kyoto
Mt Fuji
Hiroshima
Chengqilou
adventureworld.co.nz
Day 2: Tokyo Today is a full day with sightseeing the many highlights by public transport with a local guide. First stop is nearby Meiji Jinja, Tokyo’s most famous shrine then continue to Omotesando, the city’s high end fashion area before contrasting this with a visit to Tokyo’s old town. Take a cruise down Sumida Gawa River to Hamarikyu-tien and then take a stroll through some gardens and witness a short tea ceremony. B Day 3: Tokyo Today is free to explore this amazing city. Make an early start to visit the world famous Tsukji Fish Market or discover Tokyo's world class museums and art galleries. B Day 4: Tokyo – Mt Fuji Travel 2 hours to Hakone, gateway to Mt Fuji and the surrounding National Park. Explore the National Park including a ride in a cable car over the surrounding mountains and a chance to soak in an outdoor onsen (hot spring). Tonight stay in traditional ryokan accommodation. B D
• The Floating Torii Gate
54
Day 5: Mt Fuji – Takayama Enjoy one last soak in an onsen before undertaking the 4 hour scenic train journey to Takayama, nestled high in the mountainous alpine region. B D Day 6: Takayama This morning head to the local morning market with stalls selling local crafts and produce. Then visit the Hida No Sato Folk Village, an open air museum exhibiting over 30 typical farmhouses and other traditional buildings. In the afternoon visit the Takayana Festival Floats museum or simply wander the preserved town. B
Day 7: Takayama – Kanazawa Travel by train to Kanazawa, a beautifully preserved castle town. This afternoon it’s recommend visiting the Nagamachi Samurai district and Hagashi Geisha district. B Day 8: Kanazawa The highlight of any visit to Kanazawa is Kenroku-en garden, its breathtaking beauty shines through in any season. A visit to the imposing Kanazawa Castle next door is also a must do. Kanazawa is also home to many interesting temples as well as a bustling seafood market. B Day 9: Kanazawa – Hiroshima Today board the train for the journey to Hiroshima. Hiroshima has been rebuilt into a truly cosmopolitan city. Afternoon is free to explore. B Day 10: Hiroshima This morning head to the Peace Park and Museum in the afternoon take a short ferry ride to Miyajima Island, home to the most photographed site in Japan the Floating Torii Gate. Take time to explore the island with its many shrines and temples. B Day 11: Hiroshima – Kyoto Take the train to Japan’s cultural capital, Kyoto. This afternoon visit the home of an instructor of one of Japan’s traditional arts.
B
Day 12: Kyoto Today explore the city with a local guide, utilising Kyoto’s comprehensive bus system to visit some of Kyoto’s World Heritage Sites. B Day 13: Kyoto and Nara Take a short train ride to Nara. It’s recommended to visit the Todaiji Temple, the world’s largest wooden temple and home to Japan’s largest Buddha. B Day 14: Kyoto Your tour ends today with a transfer by direct train to Kansai Airport. B
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
Independent Tour
Japan
Kyoto
"An amazing culinary experience combining the tastes of Japan and its diverse culture."
CULTURE AND CUISINE 12 Days/11 Nights from $6628*
Includes 11 nights accommodation, meals as specified, all transportation between destinations, English speaking local guide and all entrance fees and transport as indicated on Day 2, 8 and 10, half day Soba making lesson and transport on Day 3, Kyoto Cooking Class on Day 11. Visit the biggest fish market in the world, experience a traditional tea ceremony and discover underground markets. Have a halfday lesson with a 'soba master and stay in traditional accommodation while immersing yourself in the unique culture of Takayama before delving into the culinary wonders of Osaka. Day 1: Tokyo Arrive in Tokyo at any time.
INDEPENDENT TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • Largest fish market in the world • Underground markets • Takayama, Temple stay Departs Tokyo: Daily. Note: If departing from Tokyo Narita airport, a return ticket to Narita Airport (4 hours) as well as an additional night in Tokyo if required, can be arranged.
JAPAN
Takayama
Tokyo
Kyoto
Day 2: Tokyo Rise early and head with a local guide to one of the worlds largest fish markets, Tsukiji Fish Market and enjoy a sushi breakfast. Visit Tokyo's old town, home to ancient temples and also the city's oldest Geisha district. Continue onto 'Kitchenware Town', lined with dozens of stores supplying the ingredients to Tokyo's restaurants then visit a busy market street underneath the train lines. B Day 3: Tokyo Discover the secret of the Japanese soba (buckwheat) noodle in a half day lesson with a soba Master. The afternoon is then free for you to continue sightseeing in Tokyo. B L Day 4: Tokyo – Takayama Depart by Shinkansen bullet train to Takayama, a beautifully preserved old town nestled high in the mountainous alpine region. Overnight stay in traditional Japanesestyle ryokan accommodation. B D Day 5: Takayama After breakfast head up to the Miyagawa morning market with stalls selling local crafts and produce and visit Hida No Sato Folk Village, an open air museum. In the afternoon visit the Takayama Festival Floats museum or simply wander through the beautifully preserved old town. B D
with many of the temples and shrines built at that time still remaining. It’s recommended to visit Todaiji Temple, the world's largest wooden building and home to Japan's largest Buddha and to wander through Nara Park. The afternoon is free to continue sightseeing in Nara or Osaka. B Day 8: Osaka – Koya-san This morning make the journey to holy Mt Koya (Koya-san), the centre of Shingon Buddhism. The 2 hour train journey is one of the best in Japan. Tonight stay at a shukubo, Japanese temple lodging. Dinner will be shojin ryori, traditional Buddhist cuisine. B D Day 9: Koya-san – Kyoto Rise early to witness the monks chanting their morning prayers. This amazing experience is followed by a shojin ryori breakfast. The rest of the day is free to further explore Koya-san before taking the train to Kyoto. B Day 10: Kyoto Start the day with a visit to Nijo Castle; continue on to Kinkakuji, the Golden Pavilion. The final stop of the morning is Daitoku-ji Zen temple complex, home to one of Japan's best Zen rock gardens. After lunch, visit Kiyomizu (Pure Water) Temple. Finish off the day with a stroll through the atmospheric Higashiyama district. B Day 11: Kyoto This morning is free to further explore Kyoto. After lunch together with a local guide walk the mile-long Nishiki covered food markets and buy the ingredients for a Japanese cooking class. Visit a former sake brewery for a tour then head to a traditional wooden townhouse for a Japanese cooking class. B D Day 12: Depart Kyoto Day is at leisure until a transfer by direct train to Kansai Airport. B
Day 6: Takayama – Osaka Take the bullet train to Osaka, widely regarded as "Japan's kitchen". Afternoon is free to explore this lively and friendly city. Tonight dine in the Dotonbouri entertainment district. B D
Osaka Kōya-san
Chengqilou
Day 7: Osaka Take a trip to Nara, an old capital of Japan
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
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CountryShort Japan TourTours Accommodation from Tokyo Type Kenrokuen Garden
KURASHIKI CULTURE TOWN 3 Days/2 Nights from $1098*
Includes 2 nights accommodation, meals as specified, transport between destinations.
or just spend the day wandering through the narrow streets and along the canals and browsing the many shops. B
“Packed full of natural charm and elegance, the town is teeming with cultural heritage.” INDEPENDENT TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • Travel on Japan's bullet trains • Visit top three gardens of Japan • Visit the Ohara Museum • Visit Oshashi House • Wander through the narrow streets Departs Kyoto/Osaka: Daily. Note: Traditional Japanese style ryokan accommodation available.
Day 3: Kurashiki – Kyoto/Osaka Head back to Kyoto or Osaka at anytime.
Kurashiki means a "town of storehouses", referring to the storehouses in which rice was once kept in this quaint canal town. These white-walled former storehouses have been beautifully preserved, with many being converted into museums, boutiques and cafes ready to explore. Day 1: Osaka/Kyoto From Kyoto or Osaka, travel by Shinkansen bullet train to Okayama. Here visit Koraku-en, ranked one of Japan's 'Top Three Gardens', home to waterfalls, tiny shrines, teahouses and miniature maple forests. After Koraku-en it is back on the train to Kurashiki. Day 2: Kurashiki Start the day with a visit to the Ohara Museum and visit Oshashi House , a 17th century machiya (town house) of a former wealthy merchant family. There are numerous other museums and sites of interest in Kurashiki
Nikko Toshogo © Japan Tourism
Kurashiki town © Japan Tourism
NIKKO WORLD HERITAGE EXPERIENCE 3 Days/2 Nights from $1366*
Includes 2 nights accommodation, meals as specified, all transport as indicated in the itinerary, English speaking local guide on Day 1 including entrance fees.
“Head to the mountains and encounter the spectacular scenic beauty of the region.” INDEPENDENT TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • UNESCO World Heritage Site • Overnight stay in a ryokan • Soak in an onsen
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nikko, home to the Toshugu-shrine complex and the traditional ryokan you will call home for the evening. Soak up traditional Japanese living and delve into the country's fascinating history and experience their unique hospitality.
Day 2: Nikko Today make the short journey by bus to Lake Chuzenji-ko, a scenic lake in the mountains above Nikko. The day is free time to visit some of the area's attractions, including the 100 metre tall Kegon Falls, Futarasan Shrine or Chuzenji Temple ot take a sightseeing boat cruise around the lake, or enjoy some of the great walks and hikes in the area. B D Day 3: Nikko – Tokyo Return to Tokyo by train at anytime today.
B
• Kegon Falls • Futarasan Shrine • Chuzenji Temple Departs Tokyo: Daily. Note: Accommodation is based staying in a Japanese style room. 4 star accommodation is staying in a Japanese style room with a private outdoor hot spring bath.
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Day 1: Tokyo – Nikko After a short subway ride, board the Tobu Rapid train for the journey to Nikko, then head out to explore the Toshugu-shrine complex. The lavishly decorated shrine complex consists of more than a dozen Shinto and Buddhist buildings in a beautiful forest setting and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Overnight stay in a ryokan and enjoy an onsen bath and a multicourse kaiseki meal. D
Per person from $
$2055*
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
Tour Accommodation OSAKA Sightseeing Type Country Japan Snow Monkey
ONSEN AND SNOW MONKEYS 3 Days/2 Nights from $1595*
Includes 2 nights accommodation, meals as specified, transport between Tokyo and Nagano.
“Visit the famous Japanese snow monkeys, who spend their days relaxing in the hot springs.” INDEPENDENT TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • Snow Monkeys • Soba Noodles • Ryokan accommodation • Hot Springs Departs Tokyo: Daily. Note: Accommodation is based staying in a Japanese style room. 4 star accommodation is staying in a Japanese style room with a private outdoor hot spring bath.
Leave behind the bustle of Tokyo for Shibu Onsen, a nostalgic Japanese spa town. Home to numerous hot springs, traditional inns and the Masuichi sake brewery the town offers a glimpse into days gone by. Day 1: Tokyo – Shibu Onsen Depart on the bullet train for the journey to Nagano, famous for its soba noodles. Historic Zenkoji temple is a short bus ride from Nagano station. One of the most visited temples in Japan, Zenkoji was founded 1400 years ago. From Nagano, take a local train to Yudanaka and transfer to your Kokuya Hotel, traditional Japanese style hotel (ryokan). The ryokan has six different 100% natural hot springs rich in health-giving minerals, which benefit your muscles, joints and skin. Time is at leisure until dinner. D
Day 2: Shibu Onsen Head to the Jigokudani Yaen Koen and see the famous Snow Monkeys bathing in hot springs. The monkeys live in large social groups, and it can be quite entertaining to watch their interactions. Accustomed to humans, they can be observed from very close. Spend the afternoon exploring the quaint streets of Obuse. Pop into the local sake brewery for a taste of their delicious homemade drink. B D Day 3: Shibu Onsen – Tokyo Transfer back to Tokyo by train.
Per person from $
MOUNTAINTOP TEMPLE RETREAT 2 Days/1 Night from $705*
$1936*
Includes 1 night accommodation, meals as specified, transport between destinations, English speaking local guide in Koya-san, all entrance fees and transport as mentioned in the itinerary.
© Japan Tourism
INDEPENDENT TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • Scenic train • Kongobunji Temple • Buddhist temple lodging Departs Kyoto/Osaka: Daily. Note: 3 star accommodation is without a private bathroom.
"Stay overnight at a shukubo, a Buddhist temple lodging, where you can join in the Zen meditation.” UNESCO World Heritage Site, Koya-san has been the centre of Shingon Buddhism, an important Buddhist sect, for over 1200 years. On this Mountaintop Temple Retreat you will ascend this sacred mountain to gain insights into Japanese Buddhism with visits to temples, as well as Japan's biggest rock garden. Day 1: Kyoto/Osaka – Koyasan Today visit the mountaintop religious centre of Mount Koya (Koya-san), reaching your destination via scenic train route. An expert guide will be waiting at the station to show the sights of Koyasan. Visit Kongobunji Temple, the head monastery of Shingon Buddhism, and home to Japan's largest rock garden, as well as the Garan temple complex. Okunoin is Japan’s largest cemetery and holds the
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
mausoleum of the founder of Shingon Buddhism.The 2km walk to the mausoleum takes you past 200,000 tombstones, belonging to feudal lords and prominent monks. Tonight you will be staying at a shukubo, Buddhist temple lodging. B D Day 2: Koya-san Rise early to watch the monks chant their morning prayers, followed by a shojin ryori breakfast. The rest of the day is free to further explore Koya-san before departures. B
Per person from $
$851*
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CountryTOKYO Japan Tour Accommodation Hotels & Sightseeing Type
Tokyo nights
VILLA FONTAINE SHIODOME from $150* per night
Includes breakfast.
SUNROUTE PLAZA SHINJUKU from $186* per night
Includes breakfast.
Villa Fontaine Shiodome is located in Tokyo’s exciting new Shiodome Media City development, within walking distance of Ginza and Tsukiji Fish Market. Shinbashi Station on JR Line, and Hamamatsucho Station on JR Line all located within a walking distance.
Sunroute Plaza Shunjuku is located in the heart of the bustling Shinjuku area, just 3 minutes walk to Shinjuku station and surrounded by the very best restaurants and shopping in Tokyo. The hotel's guest rooms are both contemporary and inviting for business and leisure travellers.
Facilities: Restaurant • bar • business centre • massage
Facilities: Restaurant • bar • coffee shop • massage
Room Features: 500 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • fridge • internet access
Room Features: 624 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • fridge
SHIBA PARK HOTEL from $219* per night
Includes breakfast. Located in Hamamatsucho this hotel is in a great location, a seven minute walk to the nearest JR station and a ten minute drive to the Shinkansen (Bullet Train). There are several cafes and restaurants in the area. Facilities: Restaurants • bar • café • internet access • gift shop • tour desk
HOTEL NIWA TOKYO from $231* per night
Includes breakfast. Conveniently located in the heart of Tokyo, close to historic, cultural and architectural sites, the Hotel Niwa is a monument to traditional Japanese aesthetics and urban sophistication. Facilities: 2 Restaurants • bar • business centre • workout room • relaxation lounge Room Features: 238 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • fridge
Room Features: 389 rooms • air-conditioning • fridge • TV • mini-bar
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* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
Tour TOKYO Accommodation & NARITAType Hotels Country Japan
TOKYO
NARITA
from
SEIYO GINZA HOTEL $429* per night
HOTEL NIKKO NARITA from $161* per night
Includes breakfast.
Includes breakfast.
A uniquely styled intimate luxury hotel located in the heart of Tokyo’s vibrant Ginza district.
Hotel Nikko Narita provides spacious well appointed rooms and offers a complimentary airport shuttle.
Facilities: 4 Restaurants • 2 bars • gym
Facilities: Restaurant • coffee shop • pool • massage • WiFi access
Room Features: 77 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • mini bar
Room Features: Phone • air-conditioning • TV • tea/coffee facilities • fridge • mini-bar • internet access
TOKYO CITY SIGHTSEEING OPTIONS Per person from $ Sumo Training Experience
$224
Nikko World Heritage Tour
$246
Shiatsu Massage Experience
$268
Tokyo Evening Helicopter Cruise $281
JAPAN RAIL PASS from $497* The Japan rail pass gives you unlimited travel on Japan railways and affiliated buses and ferries. Long distance trains provide convenient access to all parts of Japan, including cities such as Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto. The Japan Rail Pass must be purchased in Australia in advance of travel. 7, 14 & 21 day passes available. This pass is true value for money so purchase this pass and discover Japan by rail. Conditions apply.
TSUKIJI FISH MARKET WALK from $592* Depart your hotel early morning and take the subway to the Tsukiji Fish Market. Wander around the markets and see more than 480 different kinds of seafood ranging from fresh fish to shellfish and prawns. After buying various ingredients participants will visit a typical Japanese home and be shown the finer points of making sushi.
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
Sushi making in Tokyo
$294
Ninja Workshop
$363
Full Day Tokyo by Bike
$419
Samurai Sword Lesson
$419
Mt Fuji Area Hiking and Onsen
$457
Kamakura's Zen Temples
$506
Old Tokyo Tour in Kimono
$559
Based on two people travelling.
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CountryKYOTO Japan Tour Accommodation Hotels & Sightseeing Type
KYOTO SIGHTSEEING OPTIONS Per person from $ Sake Brewery Tour and Tasting
$128
Kyoto’s Back streets by Bike
$154
Tea Ceremony in Kimono
$164
Introduction to Japanese Culture
$196
Kyoto Cooking Class, Sake Tasting and Nishiki Market Food Market Walking Tour
$277
HOTEL MONTEREY KYOTO from $229* per night
KARASUMA from $243* per night
Includes breakfast.
Includes breakfast.
Home Visit with a Tea Ceremony $295 Traditional Architecture and Lunch $340 Experience Kyoto’s Classic sights by Bike
$410
Spiritual Kyoto
$532
Lakeside Collapsible Bike Ride
$615
Based on two people travelling.
The Hotel Monterey Kyoto is situated in the centre of Kyoto and is surrounded by restaurants and shopping options. The hotel combines the best of Kyoto’s stylish culture and Britain’s traditional heritage. Facilities: 2 Restaurants • onsen • beauty centre Room Features: 327 rooms • air-conditioning • TV
MITSUI GARDEN HOTEL KYOTO SHIJO from $314* per night
NIKKO PRINCESS KYOTO from $333* per night
Includes breakfast.
Includes breakfast.
Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Shijo is located in the heart of Kyoto. Transport options and Kyoto’s best shopping and restaurants are minutes away. Facilities: Restaurants • bar • onsen Room Features: 278 rooms • air-conditioning • TV
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The Karasuma Hotel is centrally located in downtown Kyoto at the intersection of Shijo and Karasuma Streets. The hotel is directly connected to the subway and city buses and is only a short walk to popular sightseeing spots. Facilities: Restaurant • bar • coffee shop Room Features: 255 Rooms • air-conditioning • TV • Internet
The Nikko Princess Kyoto is located in the heart of Kyoto, close to major subways. Shopping centres and major sightseeing are all close by. Facilities: 3 Restaurants • bar • hairdresser Room Features: 216 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • mini bar
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
Tour Accommodation OSAKAType Hotels Country Japan
MONTEREY GRASMERE $219* per night
CROSS HOTEL $231* per night
from
from
Includes breakfast.
Includes breakfast.
Designed with a Viennese theme in the fashion of a European city resort hotel and situated in the heart of Osaka, The Hotel Monterey Grasmere offers guests an elegant and convenient location whether in town for business or leisure. Facilities: Restaurant • Bar • coffee shop • massage Room Features: 194 Rooms • air-conditioning • TV • Internet • fridge
The Cross Hotel is located in the heart of Osaka’s main shopping district, Namba, along the beautiful ginko tree lined main street, Midosuji. The hotel is surrounded by Osaka’s best restaurants and shopping and within walking distance to JR Namba Train station. Facilities: Restaurant • Bar • coffee shop • massage • spa Room Features: 229 Rooms • air-conditioning • TV • Internet
KANSAI AIRPORT
KANSAI AIRPORT WASHINGTON HOTEL $146* per night
from
Includes breakfast.
NIKKO PRINCESS KYOTO $359* per night
from
Includes breakfast.
Kansai Airport Washington Hotel is comfortable, offers excellent value for money and has easy access to the centre of Osaka; one hour by train.
Nikko Princess Kyoto is located near the Aeroplaza which is very close to the passenger terminals and train station. It is an ideal location also for the many facilities and amenities the hotel has to offer.
Facilities: 24 hour reception • restaurants • bars • sauna • salon • fitness room/gym • pool
Facilities: Restaurants • Business centre • bar/lounge • currency exchange • 24 hour reception • fitness facilities • pool • Jacuzzi • steam room
Room Features: 504 rooms • air-conditioning • hairdryer • TV • internet access • phone
Room Features: 576 rooms • room service • air-conditioning • TV • phone • mini-bar • internet access
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
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CountryREGIONAL Japan Tour Accommodation Hotels & Sightseeing Type
Sake Barrels
HIROSHIMA
SHERATON HIROSHIMA from $303* per night
TAKAYAMA
Includes breakfast.
Includes breakfast.
Sheraton Hiroshima Hotel is conveniently located in the city next to JR Hiroshima Station, with direct access to the bullet train and bus terminals. You’ll be in the middle of the energy and excitement of Hiroshima, along with its historic sites and architecture. Facilities: Restaurant • bar • fitness centre • pool • spa Room Features: 238 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • mini bar • internet access
KANAZAWA
ANA CROWN PLAZA from $406* per night
TAKAYAMA BEST WESTERN from $317* per night
Located in the heart of downtown Takayama, the Takayama Best Western Hotel offers the comfort and convenience you are looking for. Located within walking distance from all major tourist attractions, a shopping centre, bus terminal and JR Takayama Train Station. Facilities: Restaurant • coffee shop • WiFi in public areas • pool • spa Room Features: 78 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • mini bar • internet access
NAGOYA
Includes breakfast. The ANA Crowne Plaza Kanazawa is in the heart of Kanazawa city, conveniently located in front of JR Kanazawa Station and points of interest minutes away. The hotel offers well appointed rooms. Facilities: Restaurant • pool • fitness centre Room Features: 249 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • internet access
WESTIN NAGOYA CASTLE from $355* per night
Includes breakfast. Ideally located in front of Nagoya Castle, the Westin Nagoya Castle offers an atmosphere of comfort and calm. The well appointed and elegantly furnished accommodations offer every guest's room a view of downtown of the 17th century Nagoya Castle. Facilities: Restaurant • pool • fitness centre • gift shop • internet access Room Features: 225 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • internet access • mini bar
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* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
Tour AccommodationOverview Type Country Korea
South Korea SEOUL
How to capture the essence of this fascinating, complex nation? Social relations may be grounded in ancient Confucianism but South Korea is most decidedly a forward-thinking country thanks to its hurry-hurry approach to everything, an insatiable appetite for technological advancement and an indomitable can-do attitude. No one knows where the country is headed, but it’s fast-forward all the way. That’s what makes South Korea so exciting and at times unnerving; it’s a country of endless possibilities. Seoul is where this is felt most keenly. There’s an infectious energy here and it’s easy to get caught up in the Korean joie de vivre, as well as the city's non-stop attractions. Having been revived, phoenix-like, from the rubble of the Korean War, locals like to call their 600-year-old capital the ‘miracle on the Han’. But as Seoul sets out with typical national zeal to reshape itself from a hardened concrete and steel economic powerhouse into a softer-edged 21st-century urban ideal of parks, culture and design, the signs are that the real miracle is currently unfolding. Less modern but no less appealing is the ancient city of Gyeongju. Known as ‘the museum without walls’, Gyeongju holds more tombs, temples, rock carvings, pagodas, Buddhist statuary and the ruins of palaces, pleasure gardens and castles than any other place in South Korea. Tumuli (grass-covered burial mounds) are only the most conspicuous and accessible of the sights. Further south, the bustling port town of Busan is a little rough around the edges but rewards those travellers willing to persevere. Few international travellers explore the countryside, which is a tragedy and a blessing. Serene temples, picturesque mountains, lush rice paddies, unspoiled fishing villages and endless hiking opportunities are so far off the beaten track, it’s unlikely you’ll meet any Westerners (or even English speakers) on the road less travelled. Voyage to the remote, unspoilt islands of Dadohae Haesang National Park, or head to the charming backwater of Buyeo for its historic Baekje relics and lively covered market. For a somewhat less rural (and considerably more surreal) experience, there is Panmunjom & the DMZ Tour – the closest you can get to North Korea from its southern neighbour. Come as an explorer, seek out adventure, cut your own trail. Challenge yourself and you may develop an appreciation for South Korea’s rich cultural tapestry and a newfound sense of personal freedom, the hallmarks of any truly great journey. Content courtesy of Lonely Planet.
SOUTH KOREA Gyeongju
Busan
JEJU ISLAND
OUR TOP PICKS FOR SOUTH KOREA 1 Seoraksan National Park Be inspired by South Korea's most beautiful mountains and forests 2 Gyeongju Explore the ancient Shilla kingdom's capital with its awesome temples, pagodas and royal tombs 3 Busan Join the bargain-hunters in the traditional markets of this bustling port city 4 Jejudo Enjoy the spectacular volcanic landscapes of this activity-filled holiday island 5 Dadohae Haesang National Marine Park Voyage to remote, unspoilt islands where life is still traditional
WHEN TO GO Korea has four very distinct seasons, each with its own special characteristics. The best time of year to visit is autumn, from September to November, when skies are blue, the weather is usually sunny and warm and the forested mountainsides are ablaze with astonishing fall colours. Spring, from April to June, is another beautiful season, with generally mild temperatures and cherry blossoms spreading north across the country in April. Camellias, azaleas and other plants and trees flower, but as with autumn, some days can be cold, so bring warm clothing. Winter, from December to March, is dry but often bitterly cold, particularly in northern parts. Siberian winds drag January temperatures in most of the country (except Jejudo) to below zero.
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CountryEscorted Korea Tour Accommodation Touring Type
"An all encompassing journey of this fabulous country.”
ESCORTED TOUR
DISCOVER KOREA 8 Days/7 Nights from $2808*
Includes 7 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, transfers, English speaking guide, all admission fees as per itinerary.
HIGHLIGHTS • Mt Songnisan National Park • Beopjusa Temple • Gyengju & Busan Tour Departs Seoul: 02, 16 Jan; 06, 20 Feb; 05, 19 Mar; 02, 16 Apr; 07, 21 May; 04, 18 Jun; 02, 16 Jul; 06, 20 Aug; 03, 17 Sep; 01, 15 Oct; 05, 19 Nov; 03, 17 Dec Note: Tours may be conducted in more than one language. Transfers to Incheon Airport or other destinations are not included in your tour, and must be booked separately. Meals during your tour: Lunch and dinner is not included in your tour fare, however your guide will give full information on available choices to ensure you enjoy Korean cuisine.
KOREA
Seoul MT SONGNISAN NATIONAL PARK
Daegu Gyeongju Busan
The perfect introduction to Korea. Day 1: Seoul Arrive in Seoul at Incheon Airport and transfer to your hotel. Day 2: Seoul Depart after breakfast for a half day city tour of Seoul including the National Museum of Korea. Built in 2005, the museum boasts a fantastic collection of Korean arts and relics. Next visit Changdeok Palace and Huwon (Secret Garden), UNESCO designated World Heritage sites. The last visit is to the Seoul Tower for a birds eye view of Seoul. Return to your hotel at approx. 3pm. B
Proceed to Busan, the second largest city of South Korea. Upon arrival take the half day Busan Tour including a visit to Busan Tower on Mt Yongdusan with its observation deck offering stunning views of the city. B Day 7: Busan – Seoul After breakfast, you will be transferred back to Seoul, either by KTX train or coach. On arrival in Seoul you will be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure. B Day 8: Seoul Your tour ends today after breakfast.
B
Day 3: Seoul – Mt. Songnisan National Park – Daegu Transfer to Korean Folk Village outside of Seoul, where people living in the village are practicing the old traditional style houses and life style of 18th-19th century. Continue to Songnisan National Park to visit Beopjusa Temple, with the tallest Buddha Statue in Korea. This afternoon continue along the expressway to Daegu, Korea's third largest city. B Day 4: Daegu Continue today to historic Gyeongju know as the ‘Museum without walls’ for a half day city tour. Visit the Royal Tumuli Park with its Royal tombs and enter one of the excavated tombs and see the Royal Kings burial chambers. B Day 5: Gyeongju A full day tour of Guengju visiting Seokguram Grotto, established in the 8th Century on the slopes of Mt Toham. Take a secenic drive to Guryongpo Port and return to Gyeongju for the evening. B Day 6: Gyeongju – Busan After breakfast check out and transfer to Unmoonsa Temple (Buddhist Nun’s temple).
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* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
Tour Accommodation SEOULSEOUL Type HotelsCountry Korea
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BIWON HOTEL from
$90* per night
from
The Biwon Hotel is centrally located and within 5 minute walk from Jongno-5-ga subway station. The hotel offers easy access to the many attractions including the famous Changgyeong Palace and the Royal Shrine. Facilities: Restaurant • cafe • WiFi access • pool Room Features: 100 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • mini bar
WESTERN CO-OP from
$98* per night
A well appointed hotel located in the Namdaemun Market, the Western Co-Op Hotel offers tastefully decorated rooms with large windows offering views over the city. Facilities: Restaurant • bar • gym • WiFi access Room Features: 166 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • internet access
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
HAMILTON HOTEL
$121* per night
The Hamilton Hotel is a well priced hotel located in the centre of the Itaewon district, a popular area for shopping. The hotel is within walking distance to the War Memorial of Korea. Facilities: Restaurant • cafe • pool • sauna Room Features: 166 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • internet access
BEST WESTERN NEW SEOUL from
$153* per night
The Best Western New Seoul is centrally located in the heart of the Yeouido business district. The hotel is within walking distance from all Seoul train stations and major tourist attractions including Mapo Bridge. Facilities: Restaurant • bar • cafe • gym • spa Room Features: 362 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • internet access
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CountrySEOUL Korea Tour Accommodation Hotels & Sightseeing Type
Gyeongbokgung Palace
ESSENTIAL SEOUL
3 Days/2 Nights from $527* Includes return airport transfers, accommodation at the Western Co-op Residence, meals as specified, sightseeing as specified (seat in coach).
SEOKYO HOTEL from $144* per night
Seoul has a long history and an array of ancient tombs, palaces, fortresses and neo-modern temples, timeless architecture and cultural vestiges preserved in alleys behind its modern skyscrapers. Prices for other properties available upon request.
Includes breakfast.
Day 2: Seoul After breakfast, join a full-day tour of Seoul. This morning visit the spectacular Gyeongbok Palace. Constructed in 1394 it is the most comprehensive and grandest of the five palaces of the Joseon Dynasty, (Deoksu Palace on Tuesdays). Then tour the Jogyesa Temple, the centre of Korean Buddhism, followed by lunch. This afternoon visit Changdeok Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site (Changgyeong Palace on Mondays), the Insadong Antique Alley and the Namdaemun Market; the largest public market in Korea. There is a surcharge of US$12 per person for Changdeok Palace on Thursday. B L
Facilities: Business centre • restaurant • bar / lounge • café • gym / fitness centre • sauna • swimming pool Room Features: 135 rooms • air-conditioning • room service • TV • hairdryer • mini-bar • phone • internet access
The Grand Ambassador Seoul is well located in the centre of Seoul, close to the city business districts. Itaewon, Namdaemum and Dongdaemun markets are within walking distance, as are the museums, historic palaces and theatres of Seoul. The rooms offer city views and the hotel has six bars and restaurants. Facilities: 24 hour front desk• indoor pool • golf practice facilities • jacuzzi • fitness centre • sauna • restaurants • bar • lobby lounge • business centre Room Features: 409 rooms • 24 hour room service • air-conditioning • tea/coffee facilities • mini-bar • TV • internet access
B
HOTEL SKY from $86* per night CITY SIGHTSEEING OPTIONS
GRAND AMBASSADOR HOTEL from $221* per night Includes breakfast.
Favourably located from Incheon Airport and within a two minute walk to the nearest subway station, and 4 km from the city centre, Seokyo Hotel offers spacious modern rooms.
Day 1: Seoul Arrive into Seoul. Meet the driver and transfer to your hotel.
Day 3: Seoul Breakfast at the hotel. Free time until the airport transfer to join your onward flight.
Includes breakfast.
BEST WESTERN PREMIER INCHEON from $151* per night
Includes breakfast.
Per person from $
66
Royal Relics (Full Day) Tour
$140
Afternoon Korean Folk Village Tour
$102
World Cultural Heritage Tour (Half Day) AM
$82
DMZ & 3rd Tunnel (Full Day)
$221
DMZ Tour (Half Day) AM
$84
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The Hotel Sky is located 10 minutes from Incheon Airport and offers a complimentary airport shuttle., making it a perfect stopover hotel.
The hotel is located close to Inchcheon Airport and offers a return complimentary airport shuttle.
Facilities: Restaurant • bar • internet cafe,
Facilities: 2 Restaurants • indoor golf range • massage
Room Features: 86 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • internet access
Room Features: 306 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • airport shuttle • internet access
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
Tour Accommodation IndependentType ToursCountry Korea
Korean Burial Mound
GYEONGJU PRIVATE ESCAPE 3 Days/2 Nights from $823* Includes: return train tickets Seoul to Gyeongju, private transfers between Gyeongju station and the hotel, a full day private sightseeing tour, accommodation, meals as indicated.
Gyeongju is known as the “museum without walls” and is the capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom. This Dynasty lasted a millennium from 57 B.C. until A.D. 935, and boasts glorious historical and cultural remains. New archaeological discoveries are still made today. Day 1: Seoul – Gyeongju Board the Saemaul train from Seoul to Gyeongju, approximately 4 hours. Private transfer to the hotel on arrival. Balance of the day at leisure. Day 2: Gyeongju After breakfast, meet the guide and start the full day tour. This morning visit Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple. Both are located at Toham Mountain. Seokguram Grotto is
a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Asia’s great Buddhist shrines. Surrounded by Bodhisattvas and guardian deities, the serene central statue of Buddha gazes out over the forested hills and across the East Sea. In the afternoon visit Gyeongju National Museum. Exhibits include relics from the Shilla Dynasty. Next visit Tumuli Park (known as Daereungwon in Korean) which has 23 royal Silla tombs. The most famous is the Flying Horse Tomb. The site was excavated in 1974 and yielded more than 10000 items, which includes a golden crown which is displayed at the Gyeongju National Museum. B Day 3: Gyeongju – Seoul After breakfast, meet the driver and transfer to Gyeongju station to board the KTX train to Seoul via Dongdaegu. B
Bulguksa Temple
Per person from $ Kolon Hotel
$823*
Hilton Hotel
$956*
JEJU ISLAND AND LAVA TUBES 3 Days/2 Nights from $453* Includes: accommodation, meals as indicated, return airport transfers in Jeju, sightseeing as specified (seat in coach). Tour departs daily.
At the southern tip of Korea is the UNESCO World Natural Heritage listed Jeju Island. The entire island and its lava tubes were designated as World Natural Heritage by UNESCO in June 2007. Day 1: Jeju Arrive Jeju airport, meet your driver and transfer to the hotel. Day 2: Jeju Depart at 08.30am for the full day tour. Start with O'sulloc Tea Museum with its boundless green tea fields. Followed by Hallim Park and its Hyeopjae and Ssangyong Caves, bonsai and water gardens. Then see Jusangjeoli rocks, created when lava meets the sea. Yakcheonsa is the largest Buddhist building
in Asia. Then visit Jeongbang waterfall, which falls directly into the sea. B The above West Course tour operates on odd days. There is an East Course tour (even days) which includes Sangumburi Crater, Seongeup Folk Village, Seopjikoji for its views, Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Park) and finally Manjanggul, the longest lava cave in the world. Day 3: Jeju Breakfast at the hotel. Free time until the airport transfer. B
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
Jeongbang Falls
Per person from $ Hana Hotel
$453*
Oriental Hotel
$530*
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CountryPrivate Korea Tour Accommodation & Independent Tours Type
Buddhist Temple
BUSAN BY TRAIN 3 Days/2 Nights from $788* Includes: return KTX train ticket from Seoul to Busan, Busan station arrival transfer, accommodation, meals as indicated, sightseeing as specified (seat in coach). Tour departs daily. Along with picturesque coastal views, Busan holds a variety of festivals and events all year round, including the Busan International Film Festival. Day 1: Seoul – Busan Join the KTX train from Seoul to Busan (approximately 3 hours). On arrival meet your guide and start a half day tour to Kukje Market and Nampodong Theatre Street, which is jam packed with movie theatres. Also visit Choryang Arcade before the transfer to your hotel. Day 2: Busan After breakfast, meet your guide and start a half day morning tour to Busan Tower on Mt. Yongdu for a scenic view of Busan Harbour
and downtown Teajongdae. Taejongdae is a seaside park adorned with unique rock formations. Well known spots here include Sinseonbawi Rock, Jagalmadang (a pebble field) and Manghuseok. Also visit the Jagalchi Fishery Market with its roadside vendors. Transfer back to the hotel. Balance of the day is free to explore more of Busan. B Day 3: Busan – Seoul After breakfast, make your own way back to Busan station to board the KTX train back to Seoul. Tour ends on arrival at Seoul station. B
Per person from $ Tourist Hotel
$788*
Commodore Hotel
$830*
TEMPLE STAY 2 Days/1 Nights from $281* Includes: return transfers from Seoul to the temple, multi share accommodation (by gender), meals as indicated.
Korean Buddhist temples have provided a spiritual sanctuary for the Korean people for 1700 years and have recently opened their doors. Now everyone is invited to participate in a temple stay and learn about Buddhist practices and discipline in daily life. Day 1: Seoul – Temple Pick up from your hotel. Transfer to Ganghwa Lotus Lantern Int’l Meditation Centre. Monks direct the program and make it as rewarding as possible for participants. The centre offers a broad range of activities for Temple stay participants with meditation, chanting, meal offerings, gardening, tea ceremony, walking meditation through the woods. The centre grows much of its own organic food. 68
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Temple stay 14:00 Arrival and arrange the room 15:00 Orientation 16:00 Time on your own 17:00 Dinner at the temple 18:00 Evening Buddhist Ceremonial Service 20:00 Tea Ceremony with Q&A session 21:00 Sleeping at Korean Room Day 2: Temple to Seoul 4:00 Pre-dawn Buddhist Ceremonial Service 5:00 Time on your own 6:30 Breakfast at the temple 8:00 Temple tour or Walking Meditation 9:00 Tea Ceremony 11:00 Morning Buddhist Ceremonial Service 12:00 Lunch at the temple 13:00 Transfer back to Seoul * All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
REGIONAL Hotels
Korea
Tea plantations, Jeju
BUSAN
GYEONGJU
SEACLOUD HOTEL BUSAN from $126* per night
Includes breakfast.
Includes breakfast.
Seacloud Hotel is centrally located and within walking distance to the beaches of Haeundae. The hotel offers well appointed rooms including family suites. Facilities: Restaurant • bar • pool • gym • massage Room Features: 411 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • internet access
JEJU ISLAND
JEJU ORIENTAL HOTEL from $111* per night
GYEONGJU HILTON from $163* per night
Discover the ancient city of Gyeongju with a stay at the Art Deco Hilton Gyeongju hotel, located on the edge of Lake Bomun and surrounded by beautiful parks. Facilities: 6 Restaurants • bar • coffee shop • pool • sauna • Jacuzzi • health club Room Features: 251 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • internet access
DAEGU
Includes breakfast.
DAEGU PRINCE HOTEL from $97* per night
Includes breakfast.
The Jeju Oriental Hotel is located in the Tap-dong seaside area near the Jeju Seaside Arts centre. The hotel offers well appointed rooms and is within easy access to shopping, restaurants and sightseeing options.
Daegu Prince Hotel has a perfect location in the city of Daegu with easy access to the airport train station and downtown area. The hotel offers a choice of western and Korean rooms.
Facilities: Restaurant • bar • coffee shop • pool • gym • sauna
Facilities: Restaurant • bar • coffee shop • pool • gym • sauna
Room Features: 313 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • internet access
Room Features: 117 rooms • air-conditioning • TV • internet access
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
KOREAN RAIL PASS from $67* Discover Korea's fascinating land of natural wonders, ancient ruins and breathtaking landscapes with the Korean Rail Pass. The Korean Rail pass can be used for all Korean Rail lines. 1,3,5,7 and 10 day passes available. Conditions apply.
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Country&Tour Siberia Mongolia Accommodation Overview Type
Siberia & Mongolia Siberia and Mongolia are two of Asia’s best kept secrets and the The Trans Siberian and Trans Mongolian Railways are the ultimate way to experience these regions. These trains offer exciting journeys that can commence from either east or west. The Trans Siberian Railway traverses Russia, Mongolia and China, with the main line running from Vladivostok to Moscow.
St. Petersburg
The entire journey takes a minimum of seven days to complete the staggering 9288 km. The Trans Mongolian service connects with the Trans Siberian Railway at Ulan Ude, close to Lake Baikal, and journeys across from Beijing via the grass steppes of Mongolia. The mysticism of Mongolia has been experienced for many years – mix up the vast landscapes of the Gobi, the snowcapped mountains of Bayan-Ölgi and the dramatic gorges and sparkling lakes of Khövsgöl. Sprinkle in the felt homes of the nomad and the cry of an eagle. Add Buddhist temples, mysterious ruins, abundant wildlife and legendary hospitality. Then top it all off with a conqueror who started with nothing and ended up changing history. If this description perpetuates your belief in an untouched country, then you also need the scoop on the new Mongolia. Add to the above internet cafés in Ulaanbaatar, herders chatting on mobile phones, Manhattan-style cocktail bars, eco-yurts and vegetarian cafés. Most travellers come for Naadam, the two-day summer sports festival that brings Ulaanbaatar to a standstill. But Mongolia’s unique charm will always lie in the countryside where, rather than being a spectator to the wrestling, you may find yourself making up the numbers! Outside the villages it’s easy to meet nomad families whose relentless sense of hospitality can at times be nothing short of overwhelming.
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RUSSIA
MOSCOW
ULAANBAATAR
MONGOLIA BEIJING
CHINA
Visiting all four cities, plus Omsk and Krasnoyarsk, makes sense by breaking a continental crossing into painless overnight hops using the Trans-Siberian Railway. Away from the railway tracks in Tuva, Altai, Buryatiya and Khakassia, local Buddhist and shamanistic beliefs remain closer to those of Mongolia or Tibet. Here local cultures retain their own sports, passions and languages while their fascinating ancient histories are faintly visible in mysterious kurgany (burial mounds), standing stones, petroglyphs and kameny baba (moustachioed stone idols).
OUR TOP PICKS FOR MONGOLIA AND SIBERIA 1 Khövsgöl Nuur, Mongolia Enormous alpine lake surrounded by mountains and Siberian forests; launch point for horse treks. 2 Darkhad Depression, Mongolia Adventure destination with the opportunity to trek to reindeer herding camps.
As a travel destination, Mongolia is a special place for people who enjoy the outdoors and adventure. Heading out on the vast plains, riding horses and camping with nomad families, it offers the chance to step back in time to a simpler age and way of life. It is an invigorating and exhilarating place to visit, and remains one of the last unspoiled travel destinations in Asia.
3 Kharkhiraa Uul & Türgen Uul, Mongolia Rugged region of mountains, glaciers and valleys that provide a summer home for nomadic herders.
From the Ural Mountains to the great Lena River, the sheer size of Siberia is hard to comprehend. Southern Siberia's beautiful peak-tickled underbelly offers world-class rafting, hiking and mountaineering.
5 Tomsk, Siberia One of the most enjoyable cities in Siberia, combing endless examples of fine wooden mansions, some grand century-old commercial buildings and a dynamic, modern outlook.
Amid endless forests are ramshackle wooden-cottage villages, and certain Siberian cities hide evocative historic cores behind their harsh Soviet exteriors. Of these, Tomsk and Tobolsk are the most memorable. Irkutsk and Ulan-Ude also have a certain charm and offer launching points to visit Siberia's greatest attraction, Lake Baikal.
WHEN TO GO
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4 Lake Baikal, Siberia A vast body of the bluest water, surrounded by rocky or tree-covered foreshores behind which mountains float like phantoms at indeterminable distances.
The Trans Siberian and Trans Mongolian Railways run year round with the majority of travellers journeying between May and September when the weather is warmer and daylight hours longer. Content courtesy of Lonely Planet.
Independent Tours
Siberia & Mongolia
MONGOLIAN TRAVELLER 13 Days/12 Nights from $2740* Includes 6 nights hotel accommodation, 6 nights 4-berth sleeper trains, arrival transfers in each city, departure transfer in Beijing.
"You will not only see the major sights, but also there's the opportunity for unique experiences with the locals."
Days 6-7: Irkutsk Arrive Irkutsk and transfer to your hotel. Suggested sightseeing includes Trans Siberian Monument, local History Museum, Decemberists Museum. Then depart Irkutsk aboard Trans Siberian Railway to Moscow. Days 8-9: Trans Mongolian Railway
Red Square, Moscow
INDEPENDENT TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • History and culture in Beijing • Boarding one of the world’s famous trains • The sights of Irkutsk
Day 1: Beijing In Beijing there is plenty to see and do. Scheduled sightseeing gives you unique opportunities of contact with the local people, including visits to markets, morning Tai Chi, kite-making lessons and time with a local family. In your free time you can take the opportunity to visit the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and much more. Then depart Beijing aboard the Trans Mongolian Railway.
Days 10-12: Moscow Arrive Moscow and transfer to your hotel. Suggested sightseeing includes Tretyakov Gallery, Church of Christ the Saviour, Kremlin, Red Square, Metro.
Day 2: Ulaanbaatar On arrival transfer to your hotel.
Departs Beijing: Selected dates. Reverse itinerary also available. Please ask for details. Note: Visas for Russia, China and Mongolia are required. Invitation letters are provided with full visa support and guidelines. The suggested sightseeing listed is not included in the touring, and can be purchased additionally.
Days 3-4: Ulaanbaatar Suggested sightseeing includes Sukhbaatar Square, National History Museum, Zaisan Memorial, Gandan Hiid Monastery, Natural History Museum, Art Museum, throat singing performance. Then depart Ulaanbaatar aboard the Trans Mongolian Railway to Irkutsk. Day 5: Trans Mongolian Railway
CLASSIC TRANS SIBERIAN 15 Days/14 Nights from $3590* Includes seven nights hotel accommodation, seven nights 4-berth sleeper trains, arrival transfers in each city.
Irkutsk
INDEPENDENT TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • Local people met on the journey • Exploring Moscow • The city of St Petersburg Departs Vladivostok: Selected dates. Reverse itinerary also available. Please ask for details. Note: Visas for Russia, China and Mongolia are required. Invitation letters are provided with full visa support and guidelines. The suggested sightseeing listed is not included in the touring, and can be purchased additionally.
Day 1: Vladivostok Arrive in Vladivostok, once sealed off from the rest of the world. Suggested sightseeing includes the Eastern fleet, History Museum, Vladivostok fort and Mermaid statue. Days 2-4: Trans Siberian Railway Depart Vladivostok aboard the Trans Siberian Railway. Days 5-6: Irkutsk Arrive Irkutsk and transfer to your hotel. Suggested sightseeing includes a day trip to Lake Baikal and Wooden Architecture Museum, Trans Siberian Monument, local history museum and Decemberists Museum.
Gallery, Church of Christ the Saviour, Kremlin, Red Square, Metro, Boat cruise and Pushkin Gallery. Day 12: Moscow By overnight train to St.Petersburg. Days 13-15: St Petersburg Arrive St.Petersburg and transfer to your hotel. Suggested sightseeing includes St.Issacs Cathedral, Hermitage, Canal trip, Summer Palace and Russian Gallery.
Days 7-9: Trans Siberian Railway Depart Irkutsk aboard the Trans Siberian Railway. Days 10-11: Moscow Arrive Moscow and transfer to your hotel . Suggested sightseeing includes Tretyakov
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
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Country&Tour Siberia Mongolia Accommodation Independent Type Tour
“A popular tour and a comprehensive journey through this fascinating region.”
MONGOLIA AND BEYOND 19 Days/18 Nights from $4820* Includes 7 nights hotel accommodation, one night shared Mongolian Ger, two nights shared Siberian Guesthouse, 8 nights 4-berth sleeper trains, sightseeing, transportation, breakfast on 11 days only and 1 dinner, entrance fees and English speaking local guides. Maximum group size is 15.
INDEPENDENT TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • Stay in a traditional Mongolian Ger • Exploring the cities of Moscow and St Petersburg • The change in landscapes and cultures from Asia to European Russia • Sightseeing included Departs Beijing: Selected dates. Reverse itinerary also available. Please ask for details. Note: Visas for Russia, China and Mongolia are required. Invitation letters are provided with full visa support and guidelines. The suggested sightseeing listed is not included in the touring, and can be purchased additionally.
Days 1-2: Beijing Arrive in Beijing will prove unforgettable, all senses assailed - colour and sound, smell and taste - leaving indelible memories of continual contrast, history and tradition alongside 20th century technology. Over our three days here the 'Scheduled Sightseeing will include visits to local markets, morning Tai chi, a family visit and an insight into the art of kite making from the experts. In our spare time we can visit some of the city's more well known highlights: the Temple of Heaven, Tiananmen Square and The Great Wall. Day 3: Trans Mongolian Railway North through border formalities where the bogies are changed and onto to Ulaanbaatar across the Gobi desert and over the steppelands of Mongolia. Day 4: Ulaanbaatar Bounded by Lake Baikal to the north and the Great Wall to the south is the Mongolian Plateau and Gobi Desert. At daybreak, classic scenes of traditional nomadic life greet us as the train winds impressively across the Mongolian Steppe and into the capital. Ulaanbaatar is a contradiction - a metropolis amid endless grass steppes, with donkeys and motorbikes, concrete apartment blocks and traditional gers.
RUSSIA St Petersburg LAKE BAIKAL MOSCOW
Irkutsk Ulaanbaatar
MONGOLIA
BEIJING
CHINA
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Days 5-9: Ulaanbaatar & the Mongolian Steppe The Mongolia of Genghis Khan lies beyond the city, in the land of the nomad. In the afternoon we travel out across the grasslands through the countryside where we spend two nights in a traditional Mongolian nomad tent or ger set amongst spectacular rock formations and wild rolling hills. Among nomadic families and their grazing livestock we can explore nearby valleys or just relax and enjoy the area. We return to Ulaanbaatar and
depart aboard the Trans Mongolian Express to Siberia. Days 10-12: Irkutsk & Lake Baikal Almost in the centre of Asia, Irkutsk - 18th century churches, bright painted shutters and log houses decorated with wooden lacework. Modern administrative blocks and soaring bridges reach out across the Angara River in this beautiful town known as the "Paris of Siberia". Then aboard the train to Moscow. Days 13-15: Trans Siberian Railway Booming over the steel bridges spanning Siberia's nerve system of 5,000 rivers we travel through Ekaterinburg, well known for the execution of the Romanov family. Days 16-17: Moscow Moscow will amaze you, its palaces and public buildings restored to their former glory. The In our spare time we have time to visit the underground metro with chandeliers, mosaics and baroque bas-relief and perhaps a river cruise or a magical evening at one of Moscow's great theatres or State Circus. Our last rail journey is aboard the overnight express to St. Petersburg. Days 18-19: St Petersburg Richly filled palaces and museums, wide boulevards and canals. The gilded halls of the Hermitage Museum hung with the works of Da Vinci, Rembrandt and many other great masters, and beyond the city lie the incomparable summer palaces of the Tsars at Petrodvorets.
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
Tour Group Accommodation Tour Mongolia Type&Country Siberia GRAND TRANS SIBERIAN RAILWAY 29 Days/28 Nights from $12475* RUSSIA St Petersburg LAKE BAIKAL MOSCOW
Irkutsk
MONGOLIA
Ulan Ude Ulaanbaatar Vladivostok
Kanazawa Kyoto
Takayama
Includes 10 nights hotel accommodation, 2 nights shared Mongolian Ger, 2 nights shared Siberian Guesthouse, 11 nights 4-berth sleeper trains, 2 nights 4-berth ferry, 1 night Ryokan, sightseeing, transportation, breakfast on 18 days only, 4 lunches and 6 dinners, entrance fees and English speaking local guides. Maximum group size is 15
Tokyo
JAPAN
“An extraordinary experience covering an amazing amount of territory and cultures.”
Day 1: Tokyo This afternoon you will join your Tour Leader and fellow travellers to learn about the journey ahead of you and perhaps to sample your first foray into Japanese cuisine. Day 2: Tokyo – Takayama We take in a highlights tour of Tokyo before boarding our shinkansen which will whisk us to Nagoya and from there an express train through breathtaking mountain scenery to the tranquility of Takayama and have the opportunity to stay in a traditional ryokan. Day 3: Takayama – Kanazawa We visit the Hida Heritage Folk Village full of hand thatched farmhouses and take a step back in time before boarding our train to Kanazawa. Days 4-5: Kyoto – Nara day trip In the morning we travel to Kyoto and also journey to Nara. We have time to explore the surrounding deer filled park before returning to Kyoto. Day 6: Kyoto – Vladivostok After a memorable journey through magnificent Japan we transfer to the terminal and board our ferry to Russia. Day 7: Ferry – Russia We mingle amongst the guests on board this ferry to Russia. Day 8: Vladivostok Once a top-secret naval base of the Soviet Union, Vladivostok was sealed off from the outside world. Discover the city and port before climbing aboard the train for this incredible journey.
GROUP TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • The contrast of old and new in Japan • Wandering the seafront fortifications of the once-secret city of Vladivostok • Exploring the surprisingly beautiful city of Moscow Departs Tokyo: Selected dates. Please ask for details. Note: Required for Japan (depends on nationality), Mongolia & Russia. Sundowners Overland will provide all required invitation letters and full visa support including detailed visa guidelines.
Days 9-10: Trans Siberian Railway Relax in the comfortable four-berth compartment that is home for the three days and nights it takes to cross eastern Siberia to the Buryat city of Ulan Ude.
National Museum before joining the train north to Siberia. Day 17: Trans Mongolian Railway Continuing towards Russia, leaving Mongolia at Sukhe Bator and travelling beyond the Russian border town and then west along the southern shore of the world's deepest freshwater lake . Days 18-19: Irkutsk and Lake Baikal (Siberia) Almost in the centre of Asia, Irkutsk - 18th century churches, bright painted shutters and log houses decorated with wooden lacework. On our walking tour you will discover the city’s wonderful historic sights. We also enjoy two nights at Lake Baikal and stay in the village of Listvyanka. Days 20-24: Trans Siberian Railway We join the Trans Siberian Railway and travel via Novosibirsk, Omsk and Ekaterinburg, through the Ural Mountains, on past its suburbs and into the heart of St. Petersburg. Days 25-26: St. Petersburg It is the city on the water, the "Venice of the North", standing resplendent on the delta of the Neva River. Our last rail journey is aboard the overnight express to Moscow. Days 27-28: Moscow Moscow will amaze you, its palaces and public buildings restored to their former glory. We ride the palatial underground rail system, adorned with chandeliers, mosaics and baroque bas-relief and perhaps a river cruise or a magical evening at one of Moscow's great theatres or State Circus. Day 29: Moscow The last day has arrived too soon. The adventure is complete, the legendary rail journey that started many days ago has taken you across Asia, through lands and cultures literally worlds apart.
Day 11: Ulan Ude Welcome to Buryatiya, centre of Russia’s Buddhist community. Reminiscent of old Siberia, Ulan Ude is located in the middle of the vast Siberian steppes, on the 5640th kilometre of the Trans-Siberian railway. Day 12: Trans Mongolian Railway Onwards we travel, enjoying the company of our fellow passengers and a picnic in our cabin. The train arrives at Naushki, the Russian border town before we journey on to Ulaanbaatar. Days 13-16: Ulaanbaatar and Mongolian Steppe After breakfast we visit the Zaisan Memorial from which the entire city is visible. In the afternoon we travel out across the grasslands through the countryside where we spend 2 nights in a traditional Mongolian nomad tent or ger. We return to Ulaanbaatar and visit the
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
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Responsible Tourism
Responsible Tourism At Adventure World we promote responsible travel to areas that conserve the natural environment and improve the well-being of the indigenous people. Working closely with our local ground operators, several who have won the prestigious AITO (Association of Independent Tour Operators) Responsible Tourism Award, we aim to promote responsible, sustainable tourism in all areas we visit. Tourism can be a positive force; notably providing income for poor communities and backing conservation by demonstrating those delicate habitats and their animal inhabitants are worth more to local people intact.
Understanding the potential harm that can come from promoting tourism through many of the delicate environments in which we operate is reflected in our ideology of 'leave no trace' tourism and we are continually monitoring our ground operations to ensure they meet with our high standards. Adventure World also offers a range of Volunteer Tours to various destinations, where you can combine a rewarding volunteer program with an exciting holiday.
LOOK ONLINE… Our website offers a world of information adventureworld.co.nz
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LATEST TRAVEL DEALS
DESTINATION INFORMATION
Take advantage of our travel specials and bonus discounts. We frequently update our website with early booking deals, stay-pay bonuses and last minute departure discounts.
Our travel guides detail the top highlights of each country as recommended by our own Adventure World team and our essential factsheets will inform you on all the local information, everything from electrical currencies to national culinary delicacies.
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FOOTPRINTS
TRAVEL BLOG
Keep in touch by registering to receive our monthly email newsletter ‘Footprints’. In each edition we profile our latest travel highlights, hot offers, past traveller experiences and prize giveaways.
Our travel blog is packed with personal travel stories and insider information on all of our destinations. Read what our past travellers and the Adventure World team have experienced, plus read their own travel tips and recommendations.
Booking Conditions IMPORTANT: PLEASE READ PRIOR TO MAKING YOUR RESERVATION 1. VALIDITY This brochure is valid from 22 December 2011 to 31 March 2013.
the extent we are able to do so we will advise you of any increases of which we are aware at the time of confirmation of your booking.
2. HOW TO BOOK We recommend booking well in advance by sending a non-refundable deposit of 25% of the tour price with a minimum deposit of NZD250 per person. Some of the tours and ground arrangements may require a higher deposit of up to 50% to meet local tour operator’s booking conditions. These details will be provided on confirmation of your booking. The deposit is required within 7 days of confirmation to hold your booking. The booking confirmation will include the exact deposit amount required and the due date of final payment. Please read these terms and conditions carefully and raise any questions you may have prior to making your booking. Receipt of deposit will be taken as an understanding by Adventure World that the customer has checked their confirmed travel arrangements and has read and agrees to abide by the terms and conditions set forth in this brochure. Any verbal quote given is an estimate only of the price which will be subject to advice on confirmation of the reservation, after which you will have 7 days to pay your non-refundable deposit.
10. CONSUMER CLAIMS Should you encounter any problems on your holiday it is always better to try and solve it directly with the supplier. If it is not possible to do so and you wish to lodge a complaint please do so in writing within 30 days of completing your Adventure World arrangements.
3. PRICE GUARANTEE Prices in this brochure are based on costs and exchange rates as at 22 December 2011. Should these costs change it may be necessary to make a surcharge on the price of your holiday which will be advised to you at the time you book. However no surcharge in respect to cost or currency fluctuations will be made to the arrangements of your holiday once full payment has been received by Adventure World, unless any changes are made to your booking in accordance with these terms and conditions. This price guarantee does not apply to: (i) fares, charges or levies imposed by airlines up until ticketing; or (ii) any taxes, charges or levies imposed by any government or their agencies. 4. AMENDMENTS One change per booking is permitted free of charge. Each subsequent change will incur a fee of AUD33 per amendment to cover extra administrative and communication costs. In addition, cancellation and/ or amendment fees may also be imposed by service providers such as accommodation providers and other service providers depending on the nature of the change. To the extent we are able to do so, we will advise you of all applicable cancellation and/or amendment charges at the time of confirmation of your booking. Separate conditions apply to air arrangements and are set out in Section 9 of these terms and conditions. 5. LATE BOOKINGS A fee of AUD55 per booking will be levied for bookings made within 10 working days of departure from New Zealand. Any booking request made within 10 working days or within any relevant supplier’s cancellation period cannot be processed until full payment has been received by Adventure World. 6. LAND ONLY SERVICE CHARGE A service charge of NZD75 per booking will be charged for land only bookings of less than 2 night’s accommodation or 2 days car hire. 7. CREDIT CARDS Credit card service fees will be applied to the dollar amount paid as follows: MasterCard and Visa 1.5%, Diners Club 2.5% American Express 3%. This fee is nonrefundable. 8. CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS LAND ARRANGEMENTS If you decide to cancel your holiday or you are unable to travel Adventure World will refund the amount you have paid less (i) our reasonable costs and (ii) any cancellation fees imposed by other suppliers. It is likely that other suppliers’ cancellation fees (which we will pass on to you) will be greater when cancellation takes place closer to the departure date. If you notify us of cancellation more than 60 days before departure, then the cancellation charges are likely to only be the loss of your deposit. If you notify us of cancellation less than 60 days before departure, the cancellation charges may be up to 100% of the total booking cost. Regrettably cancellation charges cannot be waived. No refunds are available for unused services after departure from original city. 9. CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS AIR ARRANGEMENTS Cancellation fees will apply as required by airlines regulations and will vary dependant upon the type of airfare utilised. Airfare prices and conditions are subject to change or withdrawal without notification until ticketed. Full payment is required before tickets can be issued. Adventure World cannot be held liable for any increases in prices or changes in any airline regulations. Foreign currency airfares and airport taxes may fluctuate and are subject to the rate of exchange on date of ticket issue. Increases in airport taxes are not the responsibility of Adventure World and can be imposed up to departure. To
Certain State and Commonwealth legislation, including the Trade Practices Act 1974 (Cth) (as amended from time to time), imply warranties or conditions or impose obligations which cannot be excluded, restricted or modified except to a limited extent. These Terms and Conditions do not purport to exclude any statutory rights available to you and must in all cases be read subject to those statutory provisions. 11. NOT INCLUDED IN THE TOUR COST Visas, insurance, excess baggage charges (over applicable airline allowances), extra meals, laundry, drinks, souvenirs, tips / gratuities to staff, guides and leaders (unless otherwise stated) and items of a personal nature are not included in the tour cost. Any pre-paid airfare taxes and surcharges are clearly identified in your booking confirmation if not included in the tour cost. 12. VARIATIONS Considerable care has been taken to compile the information in this brochure but circumstances not within Adventure World’s control may necessitate changes in itineraries, accommodation and costs in which case you will be informed as soon as possible. When it is necessary to change a hotel Adventure World reserves the right to substitute accommodation of at least a similar standard. Adventure World cannot be held responsible for any changes which may occur and reserves the right to increase the price of any travel arrangement up to the date of payment in full (or the date of ticketing in the case of airfares). This includes adjustment for fuel surcharges, airfare increases as well as international exchange rate fluctuations. To the extent we are able to do so, we will notify you of any applicable change in price prior to you making payment in full. Adventure World may update these terms and conditions at anytime. Any changes to these terms and conditions made after booking will be advised to you. The current version of terms and conditions will always be found on the website www. adventureworld.com.au. If as a result of any of these variations either: (i) there is a material increase in the cost of your holiday during the period between confirmation of your booking and the date on which you pay for your holiday in full; or, (ii) you will suffer a material detriment, then you may cancel your holiday, in which case Adventure World will refund the amount you have paid less any cancellation fees imposed by other suppliers. 13. HOTEL DESCRIPTIONS AND PHOTOGRAPHS Hotel and facility descriptions featured in this brochure are based on current hotel guides and information provided by suppliers and may change at any time. Pictures may not show the particular room, décor, view or other specifications included in your booking. 14. INSURANCE It is a condition of booking one of Adventure World’s tours that travellers are adequately insured for the full duration of their travel arrangements in respect of illness, injury, death, loss of baggage and personal item cancellation and curtailment. Your travel agent will be able to offer a suitable holiday insurance policy, or you may purchase a suitable external policy with another specialist travel insurance provider. 15. INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL You are responsible for all immigration, passport, visa, health, quarantine and customs laws, regulations, orders, demands or other requirements of countries visited or transited. Official travel advice issued by the New Zealand Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is available by calling (in New Zealand) 04 439 8000 or visiting their website www.safetravel.govt.nz. We recommend that you review this information both prior to making your booking and prior to departure. 16. UNLICENSED ENTITY DISCLAIMER If you request Adventure World to arrange for the provision of products or services by a person or company which is not licensed in accordance with any applicable law, Adventure World accepts no liability (whether in contract for negligence or otherwise) for any loss or damage suffered by you as a result. 17. RESPONSIBILITY Adventure World accepts bookings subject to the following conditions. i. A booking is accepted only after Adventure World receives the required deposit and issues the client or their travel agent confirmation invoices. The balance must be paid no later than 60 days before departure otherwise Adventure World will treat the booking as cancelled regardless of whether a deposit is being held.
* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share.
ii. Adventure World only acts as a coordinator of tours and an agent for the owners, contractors and suppliers of transportation, accommodation and/or other related travel services provided and assumes no responsibility for the loss or damage to baggage, property or for injury, illness, death or for any damages or claims howsoever caused arising directly or indirectly from accidents, loss or damage to person or property, delays, transport failures, strikes, wars and uprisings or acts of God etc over which we have no control. All coupon receipts and tickets are issued subject to the terms and conditions specified by third party suppliers and all services are subject to the laws of the country where the services are provided. iii. All matters directly relating to the services provided by Adventure World are governed by the laws of New Zealand. 18. PRIVACY You agree that Adventure World, its agents and related entities may collect, retain, use and disclose your personal information in accordance with our Privacy Policy. Our Privacy Policy sets out how we manage your personal information and is available on our website at www. adventureworld.com.au , or can be sent to you on request. Adventure World Travel Pty Limited Licence No. 2TA5870 A.B.N. 69 122 505 631 This brochure has been printed by a carbon neutral process with vegetable based inks, no isopropyl alcohol or solvents and using world’s best practice ISO14001 Environment Management Systems. Adventure World is a member of the NRMA Motoring & Services group of companies. The following terms and conditions will only apply to small group journeys operated by Adventure World and advertised on pages 14 to 29 of this brochure (“Small Group Journey”). 19. CANCELLATION BY US Adventure World reserves the right to cancel any Small Group Journey if minimum passenger numbers are not attained. Operation of these tours is dependent on a minimum number of persons booking on your tour. We will advise you of such cancellations no later than 60 days before departure date. However, Adventure World reserves the right to cancel a Small Group Journey at any time before departure due to Force Majeure (as defined below) or Adventure World’s reasonable consideration of adverse government travel advice. With any form of cancellation, Adventure World will offer you alternative arrangements, and if the price of your alternative booking is a lower value than the original booking we will refund the difference to you. If you do not accept alternative arrangements we will refund all payments you have made to Adventure World, in the case of Force Majeure or government travel advice refunds will be less any of Adventure World’s unrecoverable costs. Adventure World will not be liable for any additional costs incurred by you. Adventure World will not be liable for any delay in, change to or cancellation of trips due to a circumstance beyond the reasonable control of Adventure World and includes, but is not limited to, acts of God, fire, accident, interruptions to energy supplied, war or threat of war, riot, civil strife, terrorist activity, industrial dispute, disease, industrial or nuclear disaster, adverse weather conditions and strikes (“Force Majeure”). 20. YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES We will not accept responsibility or liability for any passenger who contravenes any law or regulation of any country visited. At all times the decision of the Local Guide / Tour Leader or representative will be final on all matters likely to affect the safety and well-being of the trip. You must, at all times, strictly comply with the laws, customs, foreign exchange and drug regulations of all countries visited. Should you fail to comply with the above, or should you interfere in our reasonable opinion with the well-being of the group then the leader or company representative may order you to leave the trip immediately with no right of refund. 21. PRE-EXISTING MEDICAL CONDITIONS AND AGE LIMITS Before making a booking you must advise us of any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of you requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. You may be required to provide an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner if requested. If you fail to adequately notify us of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, we reserve the right, at our reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
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CRUISE
AFRICA
CANADA
CHINA HONG KONG, JAPAN, KOREA TIBET, SIBERIA & MONGOLIA
SMALL SHIPS, RIVER CRUISES, MOTOR YACHTS, EXPEDITION CRUISES & LUXURY BARGES
YOUR CHOICE OF TAILOR-MADE INDEPENDENT HOLIDAYS :: 2012
YOUR CHOICE OF TAILOR-MADE INDEPENDENT HOLIDAYS :: 2012
TAILOR-MADE INDEPENDENT AND SMALL GROUP HOLIDAYS :: 2012
YOUR CHOICE OF TAILOR-MADE INDEPENDENT HOLIDAYS WORLDWIDE :: 2012/13
MAURITIUS, REUNION, SEYCHELLES & MADAGASCAR
EGYPT
ALASKA & USA
FIRST FOOTPRINTS
JORDAN, LEBANON, ISRAEL, DUBAI, ABU DHABI, OMAN & MOROCCO
TONGA, PAPUA NEW GUINEA, NIUE, THE LOYALTY ISLANDS, SOLOMON ISLANDS, TANNA, MALEKULA, PENTECOST & ATIU
YOUR CHOICE OF TAILOR-MADE INDEPENDENT HOLIDAYS :: 2012
YOUR CHOICE OF TAILOR-MADE INDEPENDENT HOLIDAYS :: 2012
INDIA
NEPAL, BHUTAN, SRI LANKA & THE MALDIVES YOUR CHOICE OF TAILOR-MADE INDEPENDENT HOLIDAYS :: 2012
PACIFIC
VANUATU, SAMOA, TAHITI, TONGA, NIUE, NEW CALEDONIA, COOK ISLANDS, PAPUA NEW GUINEA, SOLOMON ISLANDS, HAWAII YOUR CHOICE OF TAILOR-MADE INDEPENDENT HOLIDAYS :: 2012
FIJI
GREECE
YOUR CHOICE OF TAILOR-MADE INDEPENDENT HOLIDAYS :: 2012
YOUR CHOICE OF TAILOR-MADE INDEPENDENT HOLIDAYS :: 2012
MANILA, CEBU, BORACAY, BOHOL & PALAWAN
SOUTH AMERICA
AND HER ISLANDS
TURKEY & CROATIA
MEXICO, CENTRAL AMERICA & ANTARCTICA YOUR CHOICE OF TAILOR-MADE INDEPENDENT HOLIDAYS :: 2012
YOUR CHOICE OF TAILOR-MADE INDEPENDENT HOLIDAYS :: 2011/12
DESTINATION INFORMATION
VIETNAM
WALKING & CYCLING BY HEADWATER
USA, CANADA, EUROPE, JAPAN & KOREA
YOUR CHOICE OF TAILOR-MADE INDEPENDENT HOLIDAYS :: 2012
SOFT ADVENTURE HOLIDAYS EUROPE :: 2012
SNOWBOARDING U HELI SKIING U WINTER EXPERIENCES :: 2011/12
CAMBODIA, LAOS, THAILAND, MALAYSIA, BORNEO, MYANMAR & PHILIPPINES
SKI
SPEAK TO YOUR LOCAL TRAVEL AGENT
Call: 09 524 5118 Email: china@adventureworld.co.nz 101 Great South Road PO Box 74008 Market Road Auckland 1543 DX CX10177 Member of TAANZ, OTOC, IATA
adventureworld.co.nz