Families Worldwide 2017/18 Brochure

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A proud member of Chameleon Travel

FAMILIES WORLDWIDE

Family adventures | Small groups | Tailor-made


what our customers say “Families Worldwide offered exactly what we needed for a family holiday in a great location and for a good price. Our consultant was super to talk to about the holiday and covered everything I needed to know in a really lovely way.� Mrs Jayne Holder

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98% of customers who travelled with us in the last year would recommend Families Worldwide to their friends

4.6 Out of 5

Average trip rating from our travelling families

4.8 Out of 5

Average rating of our guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm

4.7 Out of 5

Average rating for responsible tourism

INTRODUCTION 4 Why Families Worldwide? Who travels with us? When to go? Types of adventure What is life like on tour?

4 6 8 10 11

THE AMERICAS

12

USA - Arizona, Utah & Nevada Mexico Cuba Costa Rica Panama Ecuador & Galapagos Peru Brazil

13 14 15 16 21 22 24 27

SOUTHERN AFRICA

28

South Africa Namibia Botswana Tanzania Zambia

29 32 33 34 38

NORTHERN AFRICA & MIDDLE EAST 40 Morocco 41 Jordan 44 Oman 45

EUROPE

46

Turkey Croatia Italy Malta & Gozo Spain Slovenia Czech Republic, Slovakia & Poland Iceland Slovakia Finland

47 48 52 55 56 58 59 60 63 64

ASIA

66

Sri Lanka India Nepal China Japan

67 71 75 76 78

Southeast Asia 80 Myanmar Thailand Vietnam Malaysia & Borneo

82 84 87 90

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION

94

Ask Columbus (FAQ’s) Travelling responsibly Flight information Booking conditions

94 96 97 98

MEET Columbus THE CHAMELEON Named after the famous explorer, Christopher Columbus, our mascot chameleon is dotted throughout this brochure with helpful tips and fun facts.

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WHY FAMILIES WORLDWiDE? Because it’s easy, fun and great value. We are here to make booking your holiday a stress free experience. We will search for the best flights, suggest the most interesting itineraries and ensure you have all the information you need for your holiday. We can free up your time to focus on having a fantastic trip with your family.

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a personal service

like-minded families

Our small team of family travel specialists are here to guide and inspire you from the moment you get in touch. We are a privately owned company with a big passion for family travel. We take our level of service very seriously and will do everything we can to ensure your holiday is a complete success. We are proud to have a high number of families travel with us again and again.

On our group trips you’ll most likely travel with two to four other families. Each of our trip pages display an age guideline, which gives an idea of the ages the trip is suitable for. We often get a mixture of ages and find that they all socialise really well.

So much is included With so many deals and discounts around these days it can be very difficult to judge what the real price is or what hidden extras might be added on later. Our pricing is very clear and on a Families Worldwide trip you can expect the following to be included: ¬ Accommodation throughout ¬ Meals (as per itinerary) ¬ Expert leaders and guides ¬ Site entrance fees (as per itinerary) ¬ Game reserve and park fees (as per itinerary) ¬ Activities and excursions ¬ Friendly service from a real person ¬ Flights and flight protection (Flight Inclusive only) ¬ 24-hour emergency line, 365 days a year

Independent (and proud of it) We’re not owned by a big PLC or run from a country in a far-off land so we’re very connected with our customers. Our close-knit team is based in Hampshire and we are proud of our independent ownership. You’ll find that we’re friendly, efficient and flexible. Families Worldwide is fully bonded through ATOL and ABTOT and we are ABTA members too, so you have complete peace of mind backed by a genuinely professional service.

Happy & engaged children Your children will love their holiday, from cultural experiences to discovering the history of a destination and having fun learning all sorts of new skills. We have found that travelling with other children gives them confidence, independence, amazing social skills and a greater understanding of the wider world.

Something for everyone Our trips are all designed with families in mind – and that means coming up with something for everyone. We know how hard it is to keep the whole family entertained, so our trips include a variety of activities and excursions to make sure everyone’s needs are catered for. From exciting outdoor adventures to relaxing in stunning beachside lodges, we ensure you all come home happy and reinvigorated after an excellent trip.

Family friendly guides Our worldwide team of local guides work tirelessly behind the scenes to make sure your holiday runs happily and smoothly. They are a cross between talking encyclopedias, nature experts, logistics professionals and children’s entertainers. From pointing out the best child-friendly eateries, to sharing their passion for their country, your guide will ensure your trip is a success. We provide 24/7 support to our guides and clients, meaning we are on hand at any given time. However it’s rare for us to hear anything as our guides take care of the small stuff on the spot. As one client put it, “It’s like having your own guardian angel!”

“Travelling in a group meant that the children were learning new things while also having fun and making friends.” The Hamilton family Speak to a travel specialist 01962 737 560

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who travels with us? Our families champion adventure travel. They are often made up of parents who enjoyed exploring the world before their children came along and know that with just a few small changes and some help from Families Worldwide, they can take their children on the same exciting adventures.

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We know that families come in all shapes and sizes and from all different backgrounds and that’s reflected in our family travellers. Whatever the make up of your family, whether you are looking to join a group tour or you’d like us to tailor a bespoke itinerary, we can help. If your family has a sense of adventure and desire to see the world then our trips are perfect.

SINGLE PARENT FAMILIES

TRAVELLING WITH TEENS

EXTENDED FAMILIES

If you’re a solo parent, joining one of our trips is a great way to make sure you have plenty of support. The kids have plenty to do and there are others around to socialise with too. We get lots of single parent families travelling with us and they find it’s a great way to meet other families and get the chance to relax with their own as well.

Opting to go on a group holiday with other families and their teenage children ensures that they will mix with like-minded peers and engage with each other as equals. We’ve noticed an increasing number of families with older children who still travel as a family. Whatever the shape and size of your family, you are welcome to join us.

Our trips have something for everyone, so bring the grandparents, aunties, uncles, cousins or friends. A private trip can be tailored for you or you can join a group trip with other families. It’s a great way to celebrate a special occasion, such as a big birthday or even the last trip together as a family before the children fly the nest.

“I was travelling with my sons on my own and this action packed trip was just perfect for us. The two other families and the guides helped make this trip super memorable.” The Kiely family

Travel with us again and save up to £100 per person Lots of families come back to us again and again, so we want to say thank you. Details of our loyalty scheme are available online. The great news is if you’ve travelled with any of our brands before, you’re entitled to a discount on your family adventure.

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When to go? The need to plan ahead for holidays suddenly comes into sharp focus when your children start school. February half term

easter holidays

May Half Term

Costa Rica: Active Costa Rica

Pg. 16

Borneo: Planet of the Apes

Pg. 91

Croatia: Active Dalmatia

Pg. 48

Cuba: Cuba Libre

Pg. 15

Botswana: Wild Botswana

Pg. 33

Croatia: Active Teen Croatia NEW!

Pg. 51

Finland: Ice Pop Pg. 65

China: Panda Express

Pg. 76

Croatia: Coastal Croatia

Pg. 50

Finland: Northern Lights Adventure

Pg. 64

Costa Rica: Active Costa Rica

Pg. 16

Croatia: Croatia River Adventure

Pg. 49

Iceland: Winter Iceland NEW!

Pg. 62

Costa Rica: In Style NEW!

Pg. 19

Iceland: Iceland Explorer NEW!

Pg. 61

India: Taj & Tigers

Pg. 72

Costa Rica: Rainforest & Volcanoes

Pg. 18

Italy: Sicily Explorer NEW!

Pg. 54

Jordan: Adventure to Petra

Pg. 44

Cuba: Cuba Libre

Pg. 15

Italy: Vesuvius & Pompeii

Pg. 53

Malaysia: Adventure Malaysia

Pg. 90

Iceland: Iceland Explorer NEW!

Pg. 61

Jordan: Adventure to Petra

Pg. 44

Mexico: Mayan Mexico NEW!

Pg. 14

India: Backwaters of Kerala

Pg. 71

Malaysia: Adventure Malaysia

Pg. 90

Morocco: Kasbahs & Coast

Pg. 42

India: In Style NEW!

Pg. 73

Malta: Active Gozo

Pg. 55

Oman: Dolphins & Dunes

Pg. 45

India: Taj & Tigers

Pg. 72

Mexico: Mayan Mexico NEW!

Pg. 14

Slovakia: Winter Slovakia

Pg. 63

Italy: Vesuvius & Pompeii

Pg. 53

Morocco: Atlas Mule Train

Pg. 41

Sri Lanka: Active Sri Lanka

Pg. 67

Japan: Tailor-made

Pg. 78

Morocco: Teen Hike & Bike

Pg. 43

Thailand: Rainforests & Islands

Pg. 84

Jordan: Adventure to Petra

Pg. 44

Oman: Dolphins & Dunes

Pg. 45

Malaysia: Adventure Malaysia

Pg. 90

Slovakia: Prague & Tatras Adventure

Pg. 59

Malta: Active Gozo

Pg. 55

Slovenia: Alpine Slovenia

Pg. 58

Mexico: Mayan Mexico NEW!

Pg. 14

Spain: Active Pyrenees NEW!

Pg. 57

Morocco: Atlas Mule Train

Pg. 41

Thailand: Rainforests & Islands

Pg. 84

Morocco: Kasbahs & Coast

Pg. 42

Turkey: Active Turkey

Pg. 47

Morocco: Teen Hike & Bike

Pg. 43

Myanmar: Myanmar Discovery

Pg. 82

Namibia: Cheetahs & Dunes

Pg. 32

Nepal: Himalayan Adventure

Pg. 75

Oman: Dolphins & Dunes

Pg. 45

Panama: Jungles, Canals & Coral Reefs NEW! Pg. 21 Peru: Adventure in the Andes

Pg. 24

South Africa: Kruger, Zulus & Coast

Pg. 29

Sri Lanka: Active Sri Lanka

Pg. 67

Sri Lanka: Ceylon Discovery

Pg. 68

Sri Lanka: In Style NEW! Pg. 69 Tanzania: Serengeti Family Safari

top travel tip

We strongly recommend that you book well ahead of your intended departure date.

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Pg. 36

Thailand: In Style NEW! Pg. 86 Thailand: Rainforests & Islands

Pg. 84

Thailand: Timeless Thailand

Pg. 85

Vietnam: Hanoi to Saigon

Pg. 87

Vietnam: Vietnam Adventure

Pg. 88

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SUMMER holidays

October half term

Christmas holidays

Borneo: Planet of the Apes

Pg. 91

China: Panda Express

Pg. 76

Borneo: Planet of the Apes

Pg. 91

Botswana: Wild Botswana

Pg. 33

Iceland: Winter Iceland NEW!

Pg. 62

Botswana: Wild Botswana

Pg. 33

China: Panda Express

Pg. 76

India: Backwaters of Kerala

Pg. 71

Costa Rica: Active Costa Rica

Pg. 16

Croatia: Active Dalmatia

Pg. 48

India: Taj & Tigers

Pg. 72

Costa Rica: In Style NEW!

Pg. 19

Croatia: Active Teen Croatia NEW!

Pg. 51

Italy: Vesuvius & Pompeii

Pg. 53

Costa Rica: Rainforest & Volcanoes

Pg. 18

Croatia: Coastal Croatia

Pg. 50

Japan: Tailor-made

Pg. 78

Cuba: Cuba Libre

Pg. 15

Croatia: Croatia River Adventure

Pg. 49

Jordan: Adventure to Petra

Pg. 44

Finland: Ice Pop Pg. 65

Costa Rica: Active Costa Rica

Pg. 16

Malta: Active Gozo

Pg. 55

Finland: Northern Lights Adventure

Pg. 64

Costa Rica: In Style NEW!

Pg. 19

Morocco: Atlas Mule Train

Pg. 41

Iceland: Winter Iceland NEW!

Pg. 62

Costa Rica: Rainforest & Volcanoes

Pg. 18

Morocco: Kasbahs & Coast

Pg. 42

India: Backwaters of Kerala

Pg. 71

Cuba: Cuba Libre

Pg. 15

Morocco: Teen Hike & Bike

Pg. 43

India: In Style NEW!

Pg. 73

Iceland: Iceland Explorer NEW!

Pg. 61

Myanmar: Myanmar Discovery

Pg. 82

India: Taj & Tigers

Pg. 72

India: Backwaters of Kerala

Pg. 71

Namibia: Cheetahs & Dunes

Pg. 32

Jordan: Adventure to Petra

Pg. 44

Italy: Sicily Explorer NEW!

Pg. 54

Nepal: Himalayan Adventure

Pg. 75

Malaysia: Adventure Malaysia

Pg. 90

Italy: Vesuvius & Pompeii

Pg. 53

Oman: Dolphins & Dunes

Pg. 45

Mexico: Mayan Mexico NEW!

Pg. 14

Jordan: Adventure to Petra

Pg. 44

Spain: Active Catalonia

Pg. 56

Morocco: Kasbahs & Coast

Pg. 42

Malaysia: Adventure Malaysia

Pg. 90

Sri Lanka: Active Sri Lanka

Pg. 67

Myanmar: Myanmar Discovery

Pg. 82

Malta: Active Gozo

Pg. 55

Sri Lanka: Ceylon Discovery

Pg. 68

Namibia: Cheetahs & Dunes

Pg. 32

Mexico: Mayan Mexico NEW!

Pg. 14

Tanzania: Serengeti Family Safari

Pg. 36

Nepal: Himalayan Adventure

Pg. 75

Morocco: Atlas Mule Train

Pg. 41

Thailand: In Style NEW! Pg. 86

Oman: Dolphins & Dunes

Pg. 45

Morocco: Teen Hike & Bike

Pg. 43

Thailand: Rainforests & Islands

Pg. 84

Panama: Jungles, Canals & Coral Reefs NEW! Pg. 21

Myanmar: Myanmar Discovery

Pg. 82

Turkey: Active Turkey

Pg. 47

Slovakia: Winter Slovakia

Pg. 63

Namibia: Cheetahs & Dunes

Pg. 32

South Africa: Kruger, Zulus & Coast

Pg. 29

Nepal: Himalayan Adventure

Pg. 75

“We have never done a group guided holiday before, and this one exceeded our expectations.”

Sri Lanka: Active Sri Lanka

Pg. 67

Sri Lanka: Ceylon Discovery

Pg. 68

The Kunzer family

Panama: Jungles, Canals & Coral Reefs NEW! Pg. 21 Peru: Adventure in the Andes

Pg. 24

Slovakia: Prague & Tatras Adventure

Pg. 59

Slovenia: Alpine Slovenia

Pg. 58

South Africa: Kruger, Zulus & Coast

Pg. 29

Spain: Active Catalonia

Pg. 56

Spain: Active Pyrenees NEW!

Pg. 57

Sri Lanka: Active Sri Lanka

Pg. 67

Sri Lanka: Ceylon Discovery

Pg. 68

Sri Lanka: In Style NEW! Pg. 69 Tanzania: Serengeti Family Safari

Pg. 36

Tanzania: Swahili Coast & Safari

Pg. 34

Thailand: In Style NEW! Pg. 86 Thailand: Rainforests & Islands

Pg. 84

Thailand: Timeless Thailand

Pg. 85

Vietnam: Hanoi to Saigon

Pg. 87

Vietnam: Vietnam Adventure

Pg. 88

Sri Lanka: In Style NEW! Pg. 69 Tanzania: Serengeti Family Safari

Pg. 36

Tanzania: Swahili Coast & Safari

Pg. 34

Thailand: Rainforests & Islands

Pg. 84

Thailand: Timeless Thailand

Pg. 85

Turkey: Active Turkey

Pg. 47

USA: Grand Canyon Explorer NEW!

Pg. 13

Vietnam: Hanoi to Saigon

Pg. 87

Vietnam: Vietnam Adventure

Pg. 88

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TYPES OF ADVENTURE We offer family adventure and activity holidays all over the world.

WHAT KIND OF TRIP?

Look out for these icons on our trip pages to help you choose an adventure.

Cultural Discovery

Small group trips You’ll most likely travel with between two and four other families on one of our a small group trips. We have designed our trips to limit long, boring journey times where we can, kept the group sizes small and made sure you’ll make the most of the destination you are visiting.

It’s a big world out there - with much more than seven wonders to explore. Travel opens the mind and excites the senses in a myriad of different ways. Expect to experience new cultures, historic sites, delicious local food, magnificent architecture, and the company of fellow travellers.

Activity & Adventure

Proud parent of a mini explorer? We know that adventures are better when the whole family is involved, so if you or your children have your heart set on trekking in Nepal, kayaking in Croatia, or exploring Peru’s Sacred Valley by bike, look out for this icon.

Wildlife Encounters

What about an African safari to witness the Big Five (elephant, rhino, leopard, lion, buffalo) and the great migration? Imagine whale-watching in Sri Lanka, spotting jaguars in Brazil or seeking out tigers in India. A wildlife adventure is a fantastic choice for all the family.

discover NATURe

tailor-made holidays We can tailor-make an itinerary to suit your budget and requirements. Our team of travel specialists will work with you to design your trip of a lifetime. This gives you flexibility to select departure dates, flights, itinerary pace and accommodation type.

Explore the rainforests of Borneo, experience the wilderness in some of the more remote parts of Iceland and learn about the natural history of the Galapagos Islands. Find out more about the thermal pools of Iceland, have fun in the sand dunes of Namibia and discover the coral reefs of Panama.

Multi-activity holidays

Adventurous family? Why not pick one of our multi-activity trips? One day you could be zip-lining through the cloud forest, white-water rafting the next followed by a day mountain biking at the base of a volcano. These trips are designed to get your adrenaline pumping.

Water adventures

In sTYLE aDVENTURES Are you looking for a little more comfort on your next trip? We’ve carefully designed a range of ‘In Style’ family adventures which include a higher standard of accommodation and some extra special activities. Look out for ‘In Style’ in the trip name.

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Children love water! Experience a family adventure holiday with activities such as snorkelling off the white-sand beaches of Thailand, kayaking in Spain or Gozo, white-water rafting in Costa Rica, floating in the Dead Sea of Jordan or gorge walking in Turkey.

Winter FUN

Experience an exciting winter activity holiday. Wake up to fresh snow underfoot, dip in hot natural pools, explore the forests by snowshoe and build igloos in a winter paradise. Watch the Northern Lights dart around the skies of Finland or Iceland on a winter adventure.


what is life like on tour? Family adventure tours aren’t your typical family holiday…

Cultural differences In some countries you’ll encounter some major cultural differences to life back home. It’s one of the things we love about travelling, introducing children to worlds different from their day-to-day, but it’s important to be aware and respectful of them before you travel in order to have the most enjoyable time. English may not be widely spoken in some areas and foods may be unfamiliar, but there is always something for even the fussiest of eaters. You’ll be eating like a local in no time at all.

meet some of our LOCAL guides...

Our tour leaders are the best in the business and yours will be on hand throughout to help bridge any cultural gaps. We are always on hand for any advice you need before your departure.

Itineraries Our carefully planned itineraries are put together by a team of destination specialists, working with our in-country partners.

CHIN CHINA

However, due to the nature of adventure travel and the countries we visit, we occasionally need to alter routes and activities due to circumstances beyond our control, such as unseasonal weather. If we know about these prior to your departure we will let you know, but sometimes last minute changes arise. We ask that you and your family remember to pack your sense of adventure. Often the unexpected part of a trip can be a real highlight so take it all in your stride and you’ll have a great time.

Accommodation You’ll stay in good quality, family-friendly accommodation with local character and atmosphere. Often these are smaller, family-run properties giving a real feel for the area you’re visiting. Accommodation could be anything from comfortable lodges right through to mid-range hotels, pensions, guesthouses, tented camps and campsites – it depends entirely on the trip you’ve chosen.

Ruwan Sri Lanka

Standards can vary considerably from country to country, so please make sure you read the trip notes for your holiday carefully to ensure you’ve chosen the right trip for your family. If you’re looking for a more comfortable option, check out our new ‘In Style’ trips or a tailor-made holiday, where you will have a full range of options regarding the standard and style of accommodation.

Rooming Families come in all different sizes, so it is impossible to predict the rooming arrangements in every hotel on every tour. We room each family as best we can, knowing you want to be close to your children and have adjoining rooms where possible. We will always request a triple room for families of three. However, if you would rather have two rooms (a double and a single), a single supplement may be charged. Due to the smaller nature of some of our accommodation, triples may not always be available, in which case you will be roomed in two twins. Families of four will generally be roomed in two twin rooms unless a family room is available.

ILYAS MOROCCO

Occasionally multi-share or dormitory style accommodation will be used where you will share with other group members. These nights are clearly detailed in your trip itinerary. Where overnight train travel is included we will do our best to place the whole family in one compartment. However, depending on the size of the family and beds in the compartments, this may not always be possible. Supplements for private cabins may be available. hAI VIETNAM

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THE AmericaS USA (page 13) - Mexico (page 14) - Cuba (page 15) Costa Rica (page 16) - Panama (page 21) Ecuador & Galapagos (page 22) - Peru (page 24) - Brazil (page 27)

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USA (Arizona, Utah & Nevada)

grand canyon explorer An American adventure in the heart of the Wild West duration 11 days

age guide 7 to 18

new

did you know?

The Grand Canyon is 277 miles in length, 1,800m deep and at its widest 18 miles across.

Utah and Arizona are home to countless iconic images. This family holiday is all about the stunning, diverse national parks and exploring them with a true sense of adventure. Visit one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Grand Canyon. Hike through narrow gorges to the Emerald Pools in Zion and camp under the stars where you will experience the true heart of America away from commercialisation. It’s a journey of discovery through America’s Wild West with fun activities, such as river floating, swimming and hiking, that the whole family will enjoy.

itinerary

trip highlights

WITH POOL

1

Fly to Las Vegas.

¬ Hike through the Grand Canyon

2

Drive to Grand Canyon South Rim.

¬ Camp under the stars

3

Self-guided Grand Canyon walks.

¬ Swim in natural pools in Zion NP

4

Monument Valley jeep tour.

5

Moab & Arches National Park.

6

River floating or canyoning.

7

To Escalante Petrified Forest.

8

Zion NP & hike to Emerald Pools.

9

Walk & swim along the Virgin River.

10/11

Drive to Las Vegas. Fly home.

What meals are included? Breakfasts x 9, dinners x 3

¬ Stay in a traditional Hogan house

How do we travel? Minivan, jeep & on foot

¬ Explore Monument Valley by jeep

Trip code: FUWW Traveller Rating This is a brand new adventure.

WYOMING

UTAH Kodachrome Basin

why this trip?

Tom Manchester, Product Manager

Where will we stay? Hotel x 3, camp x 3, hogan x 1, lodge x 2

¬ Explore with a local Navajo guide

NEVADA

“A truly all-American experience. The scenery and sleeping under the stars were total highlights.”

about the trip

Zion NP Hiking & pools CALIFORNIA

Las Vegas

COLORADO

Moab Arches NP

Monument Valley Jeep tour Grand Canyon South Rim NEW MEXICO

From/ To UK

ARIZONA

When can we go? FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £2,549 | Child: £2,499 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £3,844 | Child: £3,494

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MEXICO

mayan mexico

A captivating trip around the Yucatan Peninsula great for explorers of all ages duration 9 days

age guide 5 to 18

new

Not your typical Cancun beach holiday. This family adventure will see you delve deep into the Yucatan Peninsula with fun activities for everyone. Soak up the atmosphere and hear stories of the Maya as you explore temples and pyramids. Along the way you’ll swim in cenotes, learn a little Mexican cookery and meet traditional hammock weaving families. See pink flamingos, grab a bargain in a market, experience a traditional Mexican hacienda and do a scavenger hunt among impressive ruins. We can also arrange some time on beautiful Caribbean beaches before or after your tour.

itinerary

trip highlights

WITH POOL

about the trip

1

Arrive into Cancun.

¬ Explore the pyramids of the Maya

2

Explore Tulum & cycle at Coba.

¬ Cool off with a swim in beautiful cenotes

3

Mayan pyramids of Chichen Itza.

¬ Learn how to make tortillas & salsa

4

Izamal, meet hammock weavers.

5

Boat trip to flamingos at Celestun.

6

Visit a hacienda & mule cart ride.

7

Scavenger hunt at Uxmal.

8/9

Overnight flight to UK.

Trip code: FMMY

¬ Optional Caribbean beach extensions

Traveller Rating This is a brand new adventure. From/ To UK

Celestun Biosphere Reserve Flamingos

Uxmal Scavenger hunt

Sophie Hawkes, Marketing Coordinator

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How do we travel? Minibus, boat, bike or trike & mule-drawn cart

¬ Experience a traditional hacienda

Merida Colonial town

“Mexico is great for families. Children will love exploring the ruins at Chichen Itza and spotting flamingos from the boat in Celestun.”

What meals are included? Breakfasts x 7, dinner x 1

¬ See pink flamingos on a boat trip

Please contact us about a beach extension.

why this trip?

Where will we stay? Hotel x 7

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Izamal Weavers Valladolid Chichen Itza Mayan temples & cenotes

MEXICO

Cancun

Coba Cycling Tulum Mayan ruins

When can we go? FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £1,579 | Child: £1,529 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £2,349 | Child: £2,109


CUBA

CUBA LIBRE

Calling all budding history explorers and culture vultures duration 12 days

age guide 10 to 18

There’s no family car journey quite like cruising the streets of Havana in a 1950s convertible, and this Cuban adventure doesn’t stop there. Visit caves in Vinales National Park, follow rainforest trails and experience the thrill of zooming through the treetops on a zip-wire. Have the authentic experience of staying in a casa particular - the Cuban equivalent of a bed and breakfast. Go on the Revolutionary Trail and learn how history has shaped Cuban culture. Finally, spend a few days relaxing on the sandy beaches of Cayo Santa Maria.

itinerary

trip highlights

WITH POOL

1

Fly to Havana.

¬ Tour Havana by classic car

2

Classic car tour & salsa lesson.

¬ Explore Cuba’s revolutionary past

3

Vinales NP - walking & cycling.

¬ Zip-wire through treetops

4

Las Terrazas - canopy tour.

5

Cienfuegos city tour.

6

Travel to Trinidad for casa stay.

7

Visit Che Guevara Mausoleum.

8/9

Free time in Cayo Santa Maria.

10

Beach time. Transfer to Havana.

11/12

Overnight flight back to UK.

why this trip? “Passing the buildings of Havana in an open-top 1953 Chevrolet to the sound of salsa makes you realise you are in a really special place.” The Gibson family

about the trip Where will we stay? Hotels or casas particulares x 10 What meals are included? Breakfasts x 10, lunches x 2, dinners x 3

¬ Relax on the beach

How do we travel? Minibus, on foot & zip wire

¬ Enjoy jungle walks

Trip code: FCCL

¬ Stay in a Cuban B&B

Traveller Rating From/ To UK

Vinales Cycling

Gu

lf o

Havana

4.4 out of 5

fM

exi

co

Cayo Santa Maria Beach resort

Las Terrazas Cienfuegos Zip-wires Ca rib Trinidad be

an

Se

a

Casa stay

CUBA

When can we go? FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £1,449 | Child: £1,329 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £2,189 | Child: £1,919

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COSTA RICA

active costa rica The ultimate trip for active families in Costa Rica duration 10 days

age guide 9 to 18

DID YOU KNOW?

Costa Rica is home to more than 5% of the world’s biodiversity including about 750,000 species of insects.

This trip is an exciting mix of nature and adrenalin that shows you the highlights of this amazing country and keeps the whole family active. Costa Rica is an adventurer’s paradise. Explore the rainforest, volcanoes and coast in a variety of different ways. Take a boat through Caribbean mangroves, cycle at the foot of Arenal Volcano, zip-line through Monteverde’s cloud forest and walk to sky-blue waterfalls in Tenorio National Park. All the while, keep an eye out for Costa Rica’s rich wildlife as you may see iguanas, turtles, spider monkeys and an abundance of birdlife.

itinerary

WITH POOL

trip highlights

about the trip

1

Fly to San Jose.

¬ Zip-wire through the cloud forest

2

To Tortuguero. Tour of mangroves.

¬ Mountain bike in the shadow of volcanoes

3

Boat & road to Arenal.

¬ Explore mangroves in Tortuguero

4

Mountain bike & night hike.

5

Cross Lake Arenal to Monteverde.

6

Hanging bridges & canopy tour.

7

Go rafting & spot wildlife.

8

Rio Celeste - hike to waterfalls.

9/10

Return to San Jose. Fly to UK.

See page 20 for a beach extension package.

¬ Spot spider, capuchin and howler monkeys ¬ Go white-water rafting

How do we travel? Minibus, bicycle, raft, boat & on foot Trip code: FCPV Traveller Rating

4.4 out of 5

NICARAGUA

Tenorio Volcano NP Rio Celeste Sarapiqui Rafting Monteverde Cloud-forests

“Seeing turtles hatch and head off down the beach and into the ocean was amazing.” The Nicholds family

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What meals are included? Breakfasts x 8, lunches x 2, dinner x 1

¬ Walk to beautiful waterfalls

Arenal Volcano Mountain biking

why this trip?

Where will we stay? Hotels & lodges x 8

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When can we go?

Tortuguero Mangroves Ca

rib

San Jose

be

an

Se

a

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

From/ To UK

Pa

cific

Oc

ea

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COSTA RICA

PANAMA

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £1,799 | Child: £1,737 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £2,515 | Child: £2,299


COSTA RICA

spot sloths in the rainforest

zoom through the treetops

go white-water rafting as a family

Speak to a travel specialist 01962 737 560

17


COSTA RICA

Rainforest & Volcanoes A perfect choice for nature loving families duration 12 days

age guide 5 to 18

Discover the wonders of the natural paradise that is Costa Rica. Children will love exploring volcanoes, swamps and rainforests. This trip is packed with exciting activities, from zooming through the rainforest canopy on zip-lines to learning how chocolate is made. Add to this turtle spotting in Tortuguero National Park and seeing boiling mud pots and active volcanoes; this becomes a real adventure holiday. If you want to include some beach time at the end of the tour, we can do that too. Overall, this is a great overview of a fantastic country.

itinerary

WITH POOL

trip highlights

about the trip

1

Fly to San Jose.

¬ Visit a volcano and boiling mud pots

2

Poas Volcano & waterfalls.

¬ Ride zip-wires in the rainforest

3

By road & boat to Tortuguero.

¬ Spot sleeping birds on a night hike

4

Boat along Tortuguero’s canals.

5

Head to Sarapiqui’s rainforests.

6

Jungle & chocolate tour.

7

Head to Arenal Volcano.

8

Explore the volcano & night hike.

9

To volcanic Rincon de la Vieja.

10

Walk among boiling mud pots.

11/12

Drive to San Jose. Fly home.

What meals are included? Breakfasts x 10, lunches x 6. dinners x 2

¬ See how chocolate is made

How do we travel? Minibus, boat, on foot & zip-wires

¬ Explore the rainforest

Trip code: FCRA

¬ Optional extensions to the beach

Traveller Rating

4.7 out of 5

NICARAGUA

Rincon de la Vieja Volcano Arenal Volcano

Sarapiqui Chocolate

See page 20 for a beach extension package.

“We loved seeing sloths, poison dart frogs and a basking caiman!” The Kamm family

Visit our website familiesworldwide.co.uk

When can we go?

Tortuguero Wildlife boat trip

Poas Volcano

Ca

San Jose

why this trip?

18

Where will we stay? Hotel & lodges x 10

rib

be

an

Se

a

From/ To UK

Pa

cific

Oc

ea

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COSTA RICA

PANAMA

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £1,729 | Child: £1,570 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £2,405 | Child: £2,099


COSTA RICA

COSTA RICA IN STYLE Stay in superior accommodation and off the tourist trail duration 11 days

new

age guide 8 to 18

This trip will take your family to some of the most wildlife rich parts of Costa Rica, staying in unusual and special accommodation. Visit Irazu Volcano, try rafting and head into the cloud forest around San Gerardo de Dota for some of the best wildlife spotting in the country. Your family will love exploring the wild, beautiful Osa Peninsula, and you’ll end the trip relaxing on the beach in Manuel Antonio, reflecting on a very special family adventure. The accommodation, an eclectic mix of family friendly hotels and lodges, will be a particular highlight.

itinerary

WITH POOL

trip highlights

about the trip

1

Fly to San Jose.

¬ Explore the wildlife rich Osa Peninsula

2

Lunar landscapes at Irazu Volcano.

¬ Walk in atmospheric cloud forests

3

Gentle rafting on Pejibaye River.

¬ Raft the Pejibaye river

4

Sugar plantations & cloud forests.

5

Bird watching to spot quetzals.

6

Travel to Osa Peninsula.

7

Optional activities in Osa.

8

Travel to Manuel Antonio NP.

9

Time to relax on the beach.

10/11

To San Jose. Fly overnight to UK.

why this trip? “You’ll stay in excellent, characterful accommodation and visit some of the best places for wildlife.” Tom Manchester, Product Manager

Where will we stay? Hotels & lodges x 10 What meals are included? Breakfasts x 9, lunch x 1

¬ Spot wildlife in its natural habitat

How do we travel? Minibus, raft, boat & on foot

¬ Time to enjoy the beach

Trip code: FCIS

¬ Stay in special accommodation

Traveller Rating This is a brand new adventure.

NICARAGUA

COSTA RICA

When can we go?

C

arib be Irazu an Se Volcano a

From/ To UK

Turrialba Volcano

San Jose

Manuel Antonio Beaches

San Gerardo de Dota Pa

cific

Oc

ea

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Osa Peninsula Wildlife

PANAMA

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £2,549 | Child: £2,449 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £3,675 | Child: £3,309

Speak to a travel specialist 01962 737 560

19


COSTA RICA

extensions in Costa Rica Why not make the most of your time together with an extra few days in Costa Rica?

Tamarindo Diria

Capitan Suizo

A family-friendly resort style beach hotel

A smaller upmarket beach option

An ideal place to end your holiday. This reasonably large hotel has plenty to keep the whole family occupied including a large pool, several restaurants and nearby tennis courts.

Capitan Suizo is in a quiet corner of Tamarindo on the beach. There are kayaks available as well as table tennis and a pool. Enjoy family beach time in style at the end of your trip.

Please contact us for prices.

Please contact us for prices.

Tailor-made Costa Rica We have a range of family group tours in Costa Rica, but if you prefer to travel privately or are looking for something a little different, we can put together a tailor-made trip just for your family. This itinerary includes many of Costa Rica’s most popular destinations and we tailor the activities to suit your family’s abilities and interests.

Turtles & mangroves of Tortuguero Following a night in San Jose, head to Tortuguero on the Caribbean Coast by road and boat. Explore the tropical waterways and spot turtles. Volcanoes & waterfalls Travel to Arenal and spend a couple of days at the foot of the volcano. Cross hanging bridges or visit waterfalls. Cloud forest & coast Cross Lake Arenal and head for the clouds in Monteverde. Explore the forest then journey down to the Pacific Coast to end on the beach. We recommend 11 days for this itinerary giving a great introduction to Costa Rica. Please contact us to discuss a tailor-made holiday for your family.

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PANAMA

JUNGLES, CANALS & CORAL REEFS A perfect introduction to Central America for families duration 12 days

new

age guide 7 to 18

did you know? Over 13,000 ships use the canal each year taking on average 10 hours to pass through.

An adventure taking in rainforests, cloud forests, Caribbean islands, historic Panama City and the Panama Canal. Listen out for howler monkeys and keep an eye open for sloths. You’ll travel by dugout canoe to meet the Embera indigenous people. Watch giant cargo ships pass through the engineering feat that is the Miraflores Lock and head west to the cloud forest and coffee plantations of the Chiriqui Highlands. Zip-line through the forest canopy, keeping your eyes peeled for orchids and birds. Then float and swim your way down river before heading to the Caribbean and the islands of Bocas del Toro.

itinerary

trip highlights

WITH POOL

1

Fly to Panama City.

¬ Expedition style boat trip into rainforest

2

Wildlife watching jungle boat.

¬ Zip-line through forest canopies

3

Meet the Embera people.

¬ Watch giant ships navigate the canal

4

Zip-lining in the cloud forest.

5

Learn how coffee is made.

6

Go river floating.

7

To Bocas del Toro.

8

Caiman trail & Salt Creek.

9

Boat trip around Bocas del Toro.

10

To Panama City. City tour.

11/12

Overnight flight to UK.

¬ Snorkel over coral reefs

“The guides, transport and accommodation options are of brilliant quality. Perfect for families” Tom Manchester, Product Manager

Where will we stay? Hotels x 10 What meals are included? Breakfasts x 10, lunches x 9 How do we travel? Boat, minibus, on foot, zip-wire & plane

¬ Float and swim down rivers ¬ Explore the Bocas del Toro islands by boat

Trip code: FPJC Traveller Rating This is a brand new adventure.

Bocas del Toro Islands Panama Canal

COSTA RICA

Panama City Boquete David

why this trip?

about the trip

From/ To UK

PANAMA

When can we go? FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £2,495 | Child: £2,295 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £3,145 | Child: £2,790

Speak to a travel specialist 01962 737 560

21


ECUADOR & GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

Tailor-made ECUADOR & GALAPAGOS

Andes, Amazon & Galapagos There are many options for exploring this diverse country of volcanoes, steamy rainforests, colourful indigenous markets and the wildlife-rich Galapagos Islands.

Visit the rim of a volcano crater, spot butterflies and orchids in Mindo cloud forest and stand with a foot in each hemisphere on the Equator.

This suggested itinerary will see you experience the Amazon rainforest, travelling by boat and on foot and have your photo taken on the Equator line. Explore the Galapagos Islands on your choice of cruise vessel or use a hotel as your base.

Spend three nights at an Amazon lodge making trips on foot and by boat in search of wildlife and learning about the communities who live here.

Quito, Equator & Cloud forest

Into the rainforest

Explore the Galapagos Enjoy a cruise making regular landings, or choose a land-based multi-activity adventure. Either way, you’ll meet sea lions, giant tortoises, iguanas and more. We recommend 14 days for this itinerary giving a great introduction to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. Please contact us to discuss a tailor-made holiday for your family.

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ECUADOR & GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

destination HIGHLIGHTS

Here are three of our favourite places to see in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. Call us to discuss your options when planning a tailor-made family holiday.

Quito

Amazon Basin

Avenue of the Volcanoes

Ecuador’s attractive colonial capital is a great base for visiting the Equator, Otavalo market, the northern highlands or for a trip into the Mindo cloud forest.

Macaws, pink dolphins, giant otters and many types of monkeys are all found in Ecuador’s section of the Amazon Basin. Learn about traditional medicine and how people live.

Head to the south of Quito and see how the snow-capped active volcanoes form a spectacular backdrop to mountain communities and discover interesting local markets.

Galapagos Islands Home to sea lions, giant tortoises, marine iguanas and much more, the wildlife is spectacular here. Cruise or stay in small hotels. Explore the land on foot or by bike and the sea by canoe or with snorkels.

Speak to a travel specialist 01962 737 560

23


PERU

ADVENTURE IN THE ANDES See Machu Picchu on an active holiday in the mountains duration 10 days

age guide 11 to 18

don’t forget...

To get your passport stamped at the gate to Machu Picchu - a great souvenir to take home.

Unleash your family’s inner explorer on this journey to Machu Picchu. Discover the best of Peru, from the mountains to the lively cities and traditional markets. Your Andean adventure begins with an exploration of the Sacred Valley, the perfect place to acclimatise in beautiful surroundings. Here you’ll cycle and try paddle boarding before heading on foot for Machu Picchu in a spectacular one-day walk. Travel back by train to Cusco where you’ll try your hand at chocolate making, go canoeing and explore the ancient city. This trip is an exciting combination of activity and culture, with something for all the family.

trip highlights

itinerary

about the trip

1

Fly to Cusco via Lima.

¬ Hike an Incan Trail to Machu Picchu

2

To Sacred Valley. Pottery class.

¬ Ride a train through the Andes

3

Cycle to Pisac Market along river.

¬ Craft your own souvenir with a potter

4

Paddle boarding & salt pans.

5

Hike to Machu Picchu.

6

Explore Machu Picchu. To Cusco.

7

Climb the fortress of Sacsayhuaman.

8

Canoes, camelids & condors.

9/10

Overnight flight to UK

¬ Ride a bicycle through the Sacred Valley ¬ Paddle board at Lake Piuray

How do we travel? Minibus, on foot, train & mountain bike Trip code: FPLI Traveller Rating

BRAZIL

4.6 out of 5

PERU Lima Machu Picchu

Sacred Valley Cycling

Cusco Sacsayhuaman

So

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uth

Oc

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £1,999 | Child: £1,899

Pa

cific

When can we go? BOLIVIA

why this trip?

24

What meals are included? Breakfasts x 7, lunches x 5

¬ Make your own bar of Peruvian chocolate

From/ To UK

“We loved Peru! The itinerary was spot-on and the balance between activities and rest was perfect” The Knight family

Where will we stay? Hotel x 7

ea

n

CHILE

Flight Inclusive from Adult: £3,289 | Child: £2,914


PERU

extensions in Peru Why not make the most of your time together with an extra few days in Peru?

amazon jungle extension Explore the world’s largest rainforest Head into the Amazon Basin where you’ll explore between the towering trees. Learn about the forest and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife such as caiman and giant otters. You’ll be staying in a jungle lodge with plenty of activities included. Please contact us for prices.

Lake Titicaca extension Take a trip on the world’s highest navigable lake Travel across high altitude plains from Cusco to Lake Titicaca, meeting some of the distinctive, colourful communities. The floating reed islands are fascinating, as is Taquile Island where you can see textile production. We can arrange motorboat trips and kayaking. Please contact us for prices.

Nasca & the Ballestas Islands Fly over mysterious desert markings and spot sea lions It takes a little extra travel to reach, but if you have the time, head to the southern coast. Here you can fly over the mysterious Nasca Lines in a light aircraft and visit the Ballestas Islands, home to sea lions, seals and much birdlife. Please contact us for prices.

Speak to a travel specialist 01962 737 560

25


PERU

Tailor-made PERU Here are three of our favourite places to see in Peru. Call us to discuss your options when planning a tailor-made family holiday.

Machu Picchu

Cusco & the Sacred Valley

Colca Canyon

The spectacular Inca ruins of Machu Picchu sit on a ridge with commanding views. You can reach the ancient city by train, the four day Inca Trail or a shorter day trek.

Cusco is the Inca capital. Here, and in the Sacred Valley, you can walk, raft and bike in beautiful surroundings and visit countless archaeological sites such as Ollantaytambo or Pisac.

The Colca Canyon is twice as deep as the Grand Canyon and majestic Andean condors can be seen soaring on the thermals. It’s a great area to go mountain biking or trekking.

our suggested itinerary This holiday will see you hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, go rafting in the Sacred Valley, mountain bike between archaeological sites and explore Lima. As the Inca Trail is fairly demanding, reaching just over 4,000m, we recommend a minimum age of 13 years. We can arrange alternatives to the Inca Trail, including day walks.

Cycling in Lima Arrive into Lima and stay a couple of nights. Explore the coastal district on a cycling tour taking in cafes, art galleries and museums. Cusco & the Sacred Valley Begin your acclimatisation with a walking tour of Cusco and cycling in the Sacred Valley. You have some free time in Cusco to explore a little more on your own. Inca Trail to Machu Picchu The Inca Trail is an ancient pathway which winds between soaring ice capped peaks and through sweeping valleys, savour the view from the Sun Gate, before finally arriving at Machu Picchu. We recommend 13 days for this itinerary giving a great introduction to Peru. Please contact us to discuss a tailor-made holiday for your family.

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BRAZIL

Tailor-made bRAZIL Here are three of our favourite places to see in Brazil. Call us to discuss your options when planning a tailor-made family adventure.

Rio de Janeiro

Iguazu Falls

Pantanal & Amazon

Rio has some of Brazil’s most famous attractions - Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, Sugarloaf Mountain and Christ the Redeemer. February travellers can witness the Rio Carnival.

On the Brazil-Argentina border, the Iguazu River tumbles spectacularly in a series of waterfalls and chasms. You can view on foot from walkways or explore on a boat trip.

Wildlife is easier to spot on the plains of the Pantanal, but floating down the Amazon River and the feeling of being in the rainforest is indescribable. Keep a close eye out for the elusive jaguar.

our suggested itinerary Brazil has vibrant cities, beautiful beaches, rainforests, waterfalls, wildlife rich plains and more. It can be hard to know where to start with a country this large. We think this trip makes a great introduction to Brazil, taking in Rio de Janeiro, the Iguazu Falls, the Amazon River and time on the coast.

Explore Rio de Janeiro Spend time in Rio de Janeiro - perhaps the most beautifully situated city in the world and visit Sugarloaf Mountain and Corcovado. Enjoy some free time at the beaches. Waterfalls & rainforest Next is Iguazu Falls on the Argentina border. Travel onwards to the Amazon to stay in a jungle lodge with boat trips, walks, piranha fishing and caiman spotting. Salvador & north-east beaches Head to the city of Salvador, known for its Portuguese colonial architecture, before heading to the beaches of Praia do Forte to see turtles and tidal pools full of tropical fish. We recommend 14 days for this itinerary giving a great introduction to Brazil. Please contact us to discuss a tailor-made holiday for your family.

Speak to a travel specialist 01962 737 560

27


southERN AFRICA

South Africa (page 29) - Namibia (page 32) - Botswana (page 33) Tanzania (page 34) - Zambia (page 38)

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SOUTH AFRICA

Kruger, Zulus & Coast Explore the heart of South Africa duration 12 days

age guide 7 to 18

don’t forget

Pack a pair of binoculars each so everyone can enjoy the wildlife in the distance.

This cultural family holiday is also filled with wildlife, adventure, walking, mountains and impressive scenery. Start by visiting the famous township of Soweto before heading out to Mpumalanga where mountains, valleys, waterfalls and forests characterise the landscape. From here, enjoy game viewing in the renowned Kruger National Park before heading into the Kingdom of Swaziland for more wildlife and cultural experiences. Finish at the coast with the unspoiled beaches of St Lucia. Stay in comfortable family friendly accommodation and travel in excellent quality vehicles.

itinerary 1/2

WITH POOL

Overnight flight to Johannesburg. Cultural tour of Soweto.

3

Scenic drive to Mpumalanga.

4/5

Enjoy multiple game drives in Kruger National Park.

6/7

To Swaziland. Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary & Swazi village visit.

8

Travel to St Lucia.

9

Rhino conservation & lake cruise.

10

Cape Vidal & free time to relax.

11/12

Depart from Durban to the UK. See page 30 for extension options.

trip highlights ¬ Big Five safari in Kruger National Park ¬ Stunning Mpumalanga landscapes

Where will we stay? Hotel x 1, lodge x 4, chalet x 4 What meals are included? Breakfasts x 8, lunches x 8, dinners x 5

¬ Visit a real Swazi village ¬ Play on pristine beaches

How do we travel? 4WD, boat & minibus

¬ Pan for gold at Pilgrim’s Rest

Trip code: FSKZ

¬ Learn about Zulu culture

Traveller Rating

Kruger NP Game drives

5.0 out of 5

MOZAMBIQUE

From UK

Mpumalanga

When can we go?

Johannesburg Swaziland Wildlife sanctuary

why this trip? “Our guides were fantastic. Their encyclopaedic knowledge and willingness to help was humbling.” The Harper family

about the trip

SOUTH AFRICA St Lucia Beach

LESOTHO

To UK

Durban

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £1,699 | Child: £1,599 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £2,579 | Child: £2,299

Speak to a travel specialist 01962 737 560

29


SOUTH AFRICA

extensions in SOUTH AFRICA Why not make the most of your time together with an extra few days in South Africa?

Cape Town Extension A vibrant and iconic coastal city in the Western Cape. Spend a few days in Cape Town at the end of your trip to visit historical Robben Island, enjoy food and drink at the V&A Waterfront or admire the views from the top of the iconic Table Mountain. Other activities in the area include hiking, cycling, seasonal whale-watching and much more. Please contact us for prices.

30

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SOUTH AFRICA

Tailor-made south africa Here are three of our favourite places to see in South Africa. Call us to discuss your options when planning a tailor-made family trip.

The Drakensberg Mountains

iSimangaliso wetland park

Cape Winelands

The dramatic scenery of the highest mountains in South Africa attracts adventurous families to a paradise of rocky spires, grasslands, waterfalls and forests.

South Africa’s first World Heritage Site is an area of lakes, coastline, swamp and forests. Home to wildlife such as antelopes, hippos, zebras and over 500 species of birds.

A beautiful region of undulating roads, farmlands and vineyards. It is home to some of the earliest European settlements and is a driving force of wine and cuisine in the area.

our suggested itinerary This suggested itinerary begins with a stay at a riverside game reserve where you can experience close up viewing of the Big Five.

Stay at a riverside game reserve. Spend a few days here enjoying game drives, breathtaking views, river cruises and bird watching.

Drive along the Garden Route, passing nature reserves, dramatic coastline and vineyards. Stay on a working farm along the way before ending your journey with a few nights exploring Cape Town.

Visit nature reserves along the Garden Route and see the spectacular coastline. Visit a meerkat conservation programme and go hiking, birdwatching and cycling.

River lodge & game reserve

Plettenberg Bay

Cape Winelands to Cape Town Enjoy the beautiful countryside of the winelands before ending your tour with a few days to explore Cape Town. You could visit Boulders Beach to see the colony of African penguins. We recommend 14 days for this itinerary giving a great introduction to South Africa. Please contact us to discuss a tailor-made holiday for your family.

Speak to a travel specialist 01962 737 560

31


NAMIBIA

CHEETAHS & DUNES A great way to explore the wilderness duration 13 days

age guide 5 to 18

did you know? The sand within Sossusvlei is 5 million years old and possesses a red color due to a thin iron oxide coating.

Explore one of Africa’s most beautiful countries and one of the world’s best wildlife destinations, travelling through mountains and desert to the coast. This itinerary provides a fantastic combination of varied landscapes and superb game viewing. There’s plenty of contrast between the wild Skeleton Coast and the dry desert interior, from the salt pans of Etosha to the acacia savannah and lush, green, sub-tropical woodlands of the Waterberg Plateau. Spend time with cheetahs, watch marine life from a catamaran and see the seal colony at Cape Cross. This is a great African adventure for families.

itinerary

WITH POOL

trip highlights

1/2

Overnight flight to Windhoek.

¬ Play in Namibia’s biggest sandpit

3

Through mountains to Namib Desert.

¬ Watch elephants, lions and rhinos

4

Explore the dunes of Sossusvlei.

¬ Go dolphin-watching

5

Discover the Skeleton Coast.

6

Dolphin & seal cruise.

¬ Visit a cheetah sanctuary

7

Visit seal colony at Cape Cross.

8

Rock art & visit a Himba village.

9/10

Wildlife viewing in Etosha National Park & enjoy views of Etosha Pan.

11

Visit Cheetah Conservation Fund.

12/13

Overnight flight to the UK.

“We had great game drives and were very lucky with what we saw. Deadvlei was a real surprise.” The Hannyngton family

32

Where will we stay? Guesthouse x 1, hotel x 2, camp x 7 What meals are included? Breakfasts x 10, lunches x 9, dinners x 7 How do we travel? Safari bus, boat & on foot

¬ Sleep in the Namib Desert

Trip code: FNBC

¬ See Cape fur seals

Traveller Rating ANGOLA

When can we go?

Cheetah Conservation Fund

NAMIBIA

Swakopmund Dolphins

Waterberg Plateau

Windhoek

BOTSWANA

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £1,649 | Child: £999

From/ To UK

Sossusvlei Sand dunes

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5.0 out of 5

ZAMBIA

Etosha National Park Wildlife

Skeleton Coast Cape fur seals

why this trip?

about the trip

SOUTH AFRICA

Flight Inclusive from Adult: £2,339 | Child: £1,529


BOTSWANA

wild BOTSWANa

A superb wildlife experience for adventurous families duration 12 days

age guide 8 to 18

Botswana and Zimbabwe are considered to be among the best wildlife-viewing destinations in Africa and offer fantastic opportunities for family adventures. Explore a wide range of habitats from open grassland to thickets, lagoons, the Chobe River and the Zambezi, where you’ll see elephants, lions, wild dogs and hippos to name just a few. The whole family will have fun learning bush-tracking and survival skills and there will be time for browsing local markets. The trip ends at the incredible Victoria Falls where you can marvel at Mosi-oa-Tunya - ‘the smoke that thunders’.

itinerary

trip highlights

WITH POOL

1/2

Overnight flight to Maun.

¬ Spot amazing wildlife on safari

3/4

Wildlife viewing in Moremi.

¬ Experience wild bush camping

5/6

Savuti - wildlife watching & learn bush tracking skills.

¬ Watch elephants at Chobe River

7/8

Chobe - wildlife watching & sunset game boat cruise.

9

Into Zimbabwe to Victoria Falls.

10

Free day to enjoy the falls.

11/12

Overnight flight to the UK.

about the trip Where will we stay? Wild camp x 3, hotel x 2, lodge x 2, camp x 2 What meals are included? Breakfasts x 9, lunches x 6, dinners x 5

¬ Enjoy a sundowner safari boat cruise

How do we travel? 4WD, on foot & boat

¬ Explore an untouched wilderness

Trip code: FBCA

¬ Feel the power of Victoria Falls

Traveller Rating

5.0 out of 5

ZAMBIA

To UK

why this trip? “This was a fantastic trip which we all thoroughly enjoyed, especially the wild camping. Our guide Stan’s knowledge of the animals, plants and birds was outstanding.” The Proll family

NAMIBIA

Victoria Falls

Savuti National Park Wildlife & bush skills Chobe National Park Wildlife viewing

BOTSWANA

Moremi National Park Wildlife From UK

Maun

ZIMBABWE

When can we go? FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £2,199 | Child: £1,840 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £3,449 | Child: £2,980

Speak to a travel specialist 01962 737 560

33


TANZANIA

swahili coast & safari An ideal choice for families on their first safari age guide 7 to 18

duration 11 days

This Tanzanian holiday takes you right off the beaten track to see the real Africa. Drive to Saadani National Park to explore the bush, nestled beside white sand beaches. Travel on an African train venturing deep into the incredible Selous Game Reserve, which is the largest in Africa and full of wildlife. Learn about their elephant collaring project, enjoy a relaxing canoe ride, meet the locals at a Masai village and search for big game like lions, zebras and elephants as well as smaller wildlife, such as wild dogs. A short flight takes you to the beautiful spice island of Zanzibar where you can explore the winding streets of Stone Town.

itinerary 1/2

WITH POOL

Overnight flight to Dar es Salaam. Drive to Saadani NP.

trip highlights ¬ Spot incredible animals in the wild ¬ Meet the Masai in their village

3

Elephants, nature trail & canoe ride.

4

Wildlife boat trip on Wami River.

5

Travel to Dar es Salaam.

6

Tazara train to Selous.

¬ Ride on an old African train

7

Morning walking safari. Free time.

¬ Stay on the exotic spice island of Zanzibar

8

Wildlife viewing by boat & 4WD.

9

Fly to Zanzibar. Free time.

10/11

Overnight flight back to the UK.

¬ Spend a night in a Bush Rover ¬ Follow a nature trail in Saadani

“This holiday is tremendous value for money with excellent accommodation and lots of wonderful people.” The Power family

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Where will we stay? Fixed camp x 3, stone cottage x 3, hotel x 2 What meals are included? Breakfasts x 8, lunches x 6, dinners x 6 How do we travel? On foot, light aircraft, boat, train & 4WD Trip code: FTHM Traveller Rating

Saadani NP Wildlife safari

See page 37 for extension options.

why this trip?

about the trip

4.4 out of 5 Stone Town

ZANZIBAR

TANZANIA Dar es Salaam

Lake Tagalala Boat safari

Selous Game Reserve Wildlife & Masai village

Visit our website familiesworldwide.co.uk

From/ To UK

When can we go? FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £2,589 | Child: £1,999 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £3,364 | Child: £2,589


TANZANIA

SEE ELEPHANTs FROM YOUR ACCOMMODATION

SPOT giraffes IN THE NATIONAL PARKS

SPEND TIME WITH THE LOCALS

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35


TANZANIA

Serengeti Family Safari The ultimate African safari

duration 13 days

age guide 7 to 18

DID YOU KNOW?

The Serengeti spans 12,000 square miles giving rise to its name, which means endless plains.

One of the world’s greatest safari destinations, Tanzania’s rolling plains, abundant wildlife and the unique ecosystem of the Ngorongoro Crater make it like nowhere else on Earth. Tanzania is perfect for a family adventure. We will show you the big highlights as well as taking you to more exclusive parts of this amazing country. Your children will love seeing elephants, lions and giraffes out in the wild, as well as playing with local children and learning about the traditional Masai way of life. Days are filled with game drives and boat trips to witness some of the best wildlife in the world.

itinerary

trip highlights

WITH POOL

1

Overnight flight to Dar es Salaam.

¬ Spot the Big Five on game drives

2

Fly on to Mwanza.

¬ Sleep in a Masai hut

3

Boat to Saa Nane for wildlife spotting.

¬ Explore the Ngorongoro Crater

4

Sail down private canoe trails.

5

Visit Sukuma fishing village.

6

Game drives in the Serengeti.

7

Drive to Ngorongoro Crater.

8

Explore wildlife-filled highlands.

9

Learn about the Masai way of life.

10

To Moshi. Free time to relax.

11

Free time for optional activities.

12/13

Overnight flight back to the UK.

¬ Wildlife-watching boat trip ¬ Go canoeing to spot hidden animals

What meals are included? Breakfasts x 10, lunches x 6, dinners x 6 How do we travel? Plane, 4WD, minibus, boat, canoe & on foot Trip code: FTSS Traveller Rating

RWANDA

BURUNDI

Saa Nane Island Wildlife

4.0 out of 5

Serengeti Game drives KENYA

Kilimanjaro

Mwanza Lake Victoria

Moshi Ngorongoro

why this trip?

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Where will we stay? Hotel x 2, Lodge x 7, Masai hut x 1

¬ Learn traditional drumming & dancing

TANZANIA

“Seeing cheetahs was amazing! Even our guides were excited as it’s such a rare experience.” The Dignam family

about the trip

Dar es Salaam From/ To UK ZAMBIA

Visit our website familiesworldwide.co.uk

When can we go? FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £3,099 | Child: £2,299 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £4,239 | Child: £3,269

MALAWI MOZAMBIQUE


TANZANIA

extensions in TANZANIA Why not make the most of your time together with an extra few days in Tanzania?

Beaches of Zanzibar Exotic white sand beaches Zanzibar is one of those places that you simply won’t want to leave. Unwind at your beach front hotel with unparalleled views of the Indian Ocean. Activities available include sea kayaking, snorkelling, forest treks and local cultural tours. Please contact us for prices.

Tailor-made Tanzania We can design a family holiday in Tanzania that can be adapted to suit your family’s interests and time available. Enjoy a safari in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater visiting a range of habitats. Take part in cultural activities against the backdrop of Kilimanjaro and don’t forget to add in time to relax at the end on the idyllic beaches of Zanzibar.

Cultural Activities at Kilimanjaro Stay at a family-run lodge with views of Kilimanjaro. Explore the local village and partake in activities at the lodge such as cookery, drumming and dance classes. The Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater Commence your safari with a drive to Lake Manyara National Park. Look for carnivores in the Serengeti. Visit the Ngorongoro Crater home to a huge variety of colourful birds and mammals. Zanzibar Discover the historic spice island, including Stone Town and spend a few days relaxing on the beach or exploring. We recommend 13 days for this itinerary giving a great introduction to Tanzania. Please contact us to discuss a tailor-made holiday for your family.

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37


ZAMBIA

Tailor-made ZAMBIA

South Luangwa & Zambezi Safari This lodge-based safari takes you to two amazing locations for opportunities to get up-close and personal with incredible wildlife in a relaxing setting.

Stay in a lodge on the banks of the Zambezi with breathtaking views over the water. Sightings of buffalo, elephants, hippos and crocodiles are common. Next transfer to South Luangwa National Park for walking safaris and game drives. SAFARI IN THE LOWER ZAMBEZI Unwind at a tented chalet on the Zambezi River. Enjoy morning and late afternoon activities centred around game drives and wildlife tracking. SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK Spend a few days on the banks of the Luangwa River. Take in game drives in the morning and afternoon and visit the local community anti-poaching project. We recommend 11 days for this itinerary giving a great introduction to Zambia. Please contact us to discuss a tailor-made holiday for your family.

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ZAMBIA

places to see Here are some of our favourite places to visit and things to do in Zambia. Call us to discuss your options when planning a tailor-made family holiday.

Victoria Falls

Lower Zambezi

South Luangwa

A spectacle not to be missed on any family adventure in Zambia. See the mighty Zambezi tumble down over 100m creating the world’s greatest sheet of falling water.

Home to elephants, lions, cheetahs, leopards and huge herds of Cape buffalo, the Zambezi River is best known for its tranquil game viewing boat safaris.

An unspoilt African wilderness, South Luangwa is Zambia’s premier wildlife destination. Scenic lagoons left behind by the meandering river attract numerous birds and large animals.

Walking Safaris Track wildlife on foot through the early morning mists and tip-toe through the bush, crouching behind trees to watch baby elephants in their natural habitat.

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39


northERN AFRICA & MIDDLE EAST Morocco (page 41) - Jordan (page 44) - Oman (page 45)

40

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MOROCCO

Atlas Mule Train

A Moroccan adventure designed with young explorers in mind age guide 2 to 10

duration 10 days

Explore Marrakech’s maze of markets, admire handmade crafts and inhale the aroma of spices, before transfering to the tranquil Berber villages of the Atlas Mountains. Easy walks with relaxed picnic lunches provide a great way to explore the mountains on this trip. Your children will ride mules as you walk, giving you the opportunity to take in the clear mountain air and enjoy the views. Finally, you’ll have a few days in Essaouira to explore the historic port. Take a stroll around the ramparts, see the old cannons facing out to sea, wander through alleyways packed with traditional crafts, or simply relax on the beach.

itinerary

WITH POOL

trip highlights

about the trip

1

Fly to Marrakech. Free time.

¬ Ride a mule in the mountains

2

Explore the bazaars & souks.

¬ Meet the friendly Berber community

3

Mountains - walk/ride to Aremd.

¬ Enjoy local delicacies such as tagine

4

Walk to Tacheddirt with mules.

5

Easy walks around Tacheddirt.

6

Walk to Aremd with mules.

7

Transfer to Essaouira. Free time.

8

Free time to explore & relax.

9

Free morning. To Marrakech.

10

Fly back to the UK. See website for details of a shorter half term itinerary.

why this trip? “Lots of adventure for little ones such as trips to the souks, playing in streams and watching goats in trees!” The Gove family

¬ Relax and enjoy the beach

Where will we stay? Hotel x 5, mountain guesthouse x 4 What meals are included? Breakfasts x 9, lunches x 3, dinners x 4 How do we travel? Minibus, horse & carriage, on foot & mule

¬ Ride a horse-drawn carriage

Trip code: FMAM

¬ Haggle for souvenirs in the bazaar

Traveller Rating

4.8 out of 5 From/ To UK

Essaouira Beach

Marrakech

Tacheddirt Trekking Aremd

Imlil

MOROCCO

When can we go? FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £549 | Child: £529 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £829 | Child: £794

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41


MOROCCO

Kasbahs & Coast A journey of cultural discovery for every age duration 8 days

age guide 5 to 18

DID YOU KNOW?

Ait-Ben-Haddou was used to film the scenes based in Yunkai in Game of Thrones.

Get a taste of the variety and colour of Morocco as you cross the Atlas Mountains to visit the spectacular Ait-Ben-Haddou kasbah. Learn about the life of the friendly and hospitable Berber community as you stay in their classic mountain villages. Relax at the fishing port of Essaouira and spend time on the beach. Finally, explore the lively and colourful souks of Marrakech, watching the Djemaa el-Fna come to life with acrobats, jugglers and snake charmers. Don’t forget to stop for a freshly squeezed orange juice - it’s delicious.

itinerary

WITH POOL

trip highlights

about the trip

1

Fly to Marrakech. Free time.

¬ Visit Ait-Ben-Haddou

2

Marrakech tour & Ait-Ben-Haddou.

¬ Haggle in the souks of Marrakech

3

To Souss Valley via the Anti Atlas.

¬ Easy walks around mountain villages

4

Walks in mountains to villages.

5

Markets in Taroudant. To Essaouira.

6

Visit old port. Optional camel ride.

7

To Marrakech. Free time to explore.

8

Fly back to the UK.

¬ Meet the friendly Berber community ¬ Learn to cook a tagine stew

42

What meals are included? Breakfasts x 7, lunches x 3, dinners x 2 How do we travel? Minibus, on foot & caleche Trip code: FMKC

¬ Play and surf at the beach

Traveller Rating

4.0 out of 5

why this trip? “Spending time with a local Moroccan family and learning how to cook a traditional tagine with them was pretty incredible. Can’t wait to to cook it at home!” The Shenoy family

Where will we stay? Hotel x 5, riad x 2

From/ To UK

When can we go?

Marrakech Essaouira Beach

MOROCCO Ait-BenHaddou Kasbah

Taroudant Markets

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Ifergane Villages

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £549 | Child: £529 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £844 | Child: £814


MOROCCO

Teen Hike & Bike

Teenagers will love adventuring across Morocco duration 9 days

age guide 11 to 18

A great trip for teenagers exploring Morocco by bike, camel and on foot. Journey into the Atlas Mountains meeting local Berber people along the way. During the spring and autumn months you will spend a few days in the desert, camel trekking and sleeping under the stars in a Bedouin tent. In the summer months you will camel trek along the Atlantic coast to Essaouira and camp on the beach. Both tours start and end in Marrakech allowing plenty of time to explore the souks and include trekking and cycling through the Atlas Mountains passing by delightful Berber villages and stopping for a cup of mint tea.

itinerary

trip highlights

WITH POOL

1

Fly to Marrakech. City tour.

¬ Mountain biking in the Atlas Mountains

2

Biking in the Atlas Mountains.

¬ Walks in the foothills of Mount Toubkal

3/4

Hiking in the Atlas. Meet the Berbers for mint tea.

¬ Meet a Berber family

EASTER & OCTOBER HALF TERM 5

Ait-Ben-Haddou. To Draa Valley.

6

Camel trekking in the desert.

7

Camel trek to Ouled Driss oasis.

8

Travel back to Marrakech.

9

Fly back to the UK. MAY HALF TERM & SUMMER

5

Camel trek to Sidi Mbarek.

6

Camel trek & then to Essaouira.

7

Essaouira tour & cookery class.

8

Travel back to Marrakech.

9

Fly back to the UK.

about the trip Where will we stay? Hotels & guesthouses x 6, riad x 1, camp x 1 What meals are included? Breakfasts x 8, lunches x 5, 2 dinners x 2

¬ Experience camel trekking ¬ Explore Ait-Ben-Haddou (seasonal)

How do we travel? Minibus, camel, bike & on foot

¬ Spend time on the beach (seasonal)

Trip code: FMTA Traveller Rating

Easter & October Half Term May Half Term & Summer Essaouira Beach Sidi Mbarek Camels

4.2 out of 5

From/ To UK

Marrakech Imlil Cycling

Ouirgane Hiking

When can we go?

Ait-Ben-Haddou Kasbah Zagora Camels

MOROCCO

Ouled Driss Oasis ALGERIA

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £799 | Child: £769 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £1,149 | Child: £1,104

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43


JORDAN

adventure to Petra A great family friendly adventure in the Middle East age guide 5 to 18

duration 8 days

An action-packed family holiday set in a relaxed environment with wonderful food and friendly, hospitable people. See the superb Roman ruins in Jerash and explore the incredible temples of Petra. The highlight of your journey will almost certainly be the desert landscape of Wadi Rum. You’ll discover this astounding wilderness on a jeep safari and by camel before stargazing from your Bedouin-style camp. Snorkel between the colourful coral in exotic Aqaba before spending your final day spent floating in the Dead Sea.

itinerary

trip highlights

WITH POOL

1

Fly to Amman.

¬ Sleep under the stars in a Bedouin camp

2

Ancient Roman city of Jerash.

¬ Ride a camel in Wadi Rum

3

Visit Mt Nebo & Crusader castle.

¬ Discover the wonders of Petra

4

Full day visit to Petra with walks.

5

To Bedouin camp at Wadi Rum.

6

To Aqaba on the Red Sea coast.

7

Float in the Dead Sea.

8

Fly back to the UK.

¬ Float in the Dead Sea ¬ Explore ancient castle dungeons

about the trip Where will we stay? Hotel x 6, camp x 1 What meals are included? Breakfasts x 7, lunches x 2, dinner x 1 How do we travel? Minibus, 4WD, camel & on foot Trip code: FJJD

¬ Snorkel in Aqaba

Traveller Rating

5.0 out of 5

From/ To UK

why this trip? “You often hear about the locals being friendly, but in the case of Jordan, this was completely true. We loved floating in the Dead Sea and snorkelling in the Red Sea.” The Sesemann family

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When can we go?

Amman Madaba Roman city

Dead Sea

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

SAUDI ARABIA

Kerak Castle ISRAEL

JORDAN Petra

EGYPT

Aqaba Red sea

Wadi Rum Desert camp

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how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £949 | Child: £929 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £1,424 | Child: £1,309


OMAN

Dolphins & Dunes

Immerse your family into an ancient and intriguing culture age guide 7 to 18

duration 8 days

Oman, one of the oldest civilisations on the Arabian Peninsula, is an exciting destination with a great climate and beautiful beaches. This activity holiday has so much to offer families, with beautiful mountain scenery, sweeping wadis, vast deserts and historic forts. Go dolphin watching and snorkelling, swim to hidden caves and look for turtles at Sur Beach (seasonal). Try sand boarding in the desert before making a splash in the waterpools of Wadi Bani Khalid. You’ll also walk part of the Balcony Walk at Jebel Shams. Finally, float along the beautiful coastline in a dhow and relax while admiring the views.

itinerary

trip highlights

WITH POOL

1

Overnight flight to Muscat.

¬ Cruise on a traditional dhow

2

Go dolphin watching. Free time.

¬ Take a thrilling 4WD trip in the desert

3

Explore Jebel Akhdar.

¬ Sleep under the stars in a Bedouin camp

4

Jebel Shams - 4WD & walks.

5

Nizwa Fort & Wahiba Sands.

6

Wadi Bani Khalid & Sur Beach.

7

Dhow cruise & Wadi Shab.

8

Fly back to the UK.

¬ Go dolphin watching

about the trip Where will we stay? Hotel x 5, fixed camp x 1 What meals are included? Breakfasts x 6, lunches x 4, dinners x 2 How do we travel? Minibus, 4WD, on foot, dhow, boat & camel

¬ Snorkel in warm tropical waters

Trip code: FODD

¬ Cool off in a refreshing wadi

Traveller Rating

From/ To UK

4.0 out of 5

Muscat

why this trip? “All of the included activities were excellent as was our guide and transport. Fantastic holiday!” The Ramada family

When can we go?

Jebel Shams Jebel Akhdar Green mountain Nizwa Fort

OMAN

Sur Turtles & dhow cruise

Wahiba Sands Dunes Wadi Bani Khalid Pools

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £1,549 | Child: £1,479 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £2,159 | Child: £1,939

Speak to a travel specialist 01962 737 560

45


europe

Turkey (page 47) - Croatia (page 48) - Italy (page 52) Malta & Gozo (page 55) - Spain (page 56) - Slovenia (page 58) Czech Republic, Slovakia & Poland (page 59) - Iceland (page 60) Slovakia (page 63) - Finland (page 64)

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TURKEY

ACTIVE TURKEY

Great for adventurous families wanting to explore the turquoise coast duration 8 days

age guide 8 to 18

how to say... Hello in Turkish is merhaba.

You can’t fail to fall in love with the beautiful beaches of the Lycia, but it’s the culture and past civilisations of the area that will really captivate adults and children alike. Stay in a small comfortable hotel in the idyllic Adrasan Bay. Take a boat trip to see the sunken city of Kekova. Have fun gorge scrambling, kayaking, swimming and snorkelling in the crystal clear waters. There’s also a wide range of optional activities to choose from such as rock climbing, a Turkish bath, pony trekking, scuba diving, climbing, zip-wires, and a Lycian Way walk.

itinerary

WITH POOL

trip highlights

1

Fly to Antalya. To Adrasan.

¬ Walk through waterfalls in a gorge

2

Ruins of Olympos & Ceneviz Bay.

¬ Take a boat ride to a sunken city

3

Sunset walk to Chimaera flames.

¬ Go kayaking in the sea

4

Visit DoluSu Aquapark (optional).

5

Boat trip to sunken city of Kekova.

6

Free day; optional activities.

7

Canyoning at Goynuk gorge.

8

Transfer to airport and fly to UK.

about the trip Where will we stay? Hotel x 7 What meals are included? Breakfasts x 7, lunches x 3

¬ Go swimming and snorkelling

Trip code: FTAT

¬ Visit ancient ruins at Mount Olympos

Traveller Rating

Antalya

4.7 out of 5

From/ To UK

why this trip? “Amazing activites - kayaking, scuba diving and jumping into the Med in a beautiful and untouristy part of the Turkish Coast. Cannot rate this trip highly enough.” The Wren family

How do we travel? Minibus, kayak, boat & on foot

¬ Watch the eternal Chimaera flames

TURKEY Ulupinar Chimaera flames Adrasan Our base

Kekova Sunken city

Goynuk Canyon Gorge walking

Olympos Ruins Walks Ceneviz Bay Sea kayaking

When can we go? FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £729 | Child: £699 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £1,024 | Child: £949

Speak to a travel specialist 01962 737 560

47


CROATIA

ACTIVE DALMATIA A fun kayaking holiday for all the family age guide 8 to 18

duration 8 days

Based on the beautiful island of Lopud, you’ll sea kayak around jaw-dropping islands and visit remote caves and bays. Kayak around and explore Lopud, cycle through the colourful villages of Sipan and walk around Kolocep. Visit Neptune’s fountain and have fun swimming and snorkelling in the warm waters of the Adriatic Sea. During your free time you can relax on the beach or visit the ancient city of Dubrovnik. Explore further by taking a boat trip to Mljet National Park or by visiting Bosnia-Herzegovina to go canyoning and see the famous bridge in Mostar.

itinerary

trip highlights

1

Fly to Dubrovnik. Ferry to Lopud.

¬ Go sea kayaking along the coast

2

Kayak to Sipan for bike ride.

¬ Visit Neptune’s fountain

3

Kayak to Sunj bay for snorkelling.

¬ Have fun on the beach

4

To Kolocep on kayaks.

5

Free day to explore or relax.

6

Hike to Sunj beach. Kayaking.

7

Sea kayak to Trsteno village.

8

Transfer to Dubrovnik. Fly to UK.

about the trip Where will we stay? Guesthouse x 7 What meals are included? Breakfasts x 7, dinners x 4

¬ Discover hidden caves and sea inlets

How do we travel? Kayak, on foot, bicycle, boat & minibus

¬ Go mountain biking on Sipan

Trip code: FCSK

¬ Snorkel over colourful coral reefs

Traveller Rating

4.5 out of 5

why this trip? “Highlights were kayaking, hiking, visiting the farm, the island itself and our guide, Hrvoje, who was absolutely excellent and made the holiday especially successful for us.” The Paterson family

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When can we go? CROATIA

Mljet Boat trip

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Sipan Cycling

Lopud Our base Kolocep Walking

From/ To UK

Dubrovnik

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £849 | Child: £829 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £1,134 | Child: £1,089


CROATIA

CROATIA RIVER ADVENTURE Escape to the country on a fun and active week in Croatia age guide 8 to 18

duration 8 days

This holiday will take you along the Mreznica River, through Plitvice Lakes National Park and to the Una River in Bosnia-Herzegovina. Explore this incredible country on foot, by bike, kayak and by raft. The Mreznica is considered one of Croatia’s cleanest rivers with plenty of great places for messing about in the water. The river is 64km long and is special for its 93 waterfalls and pools of warm water between them, which are perfect for swimming away from beach crowds. Clear water, unspoilt woods and magical landscapes make this one of Croatia’s most desirable retreats.

itinerary

trip highlights

1

Fly to Zagreb. To Mreznica River.

¬ Go kayaking through a canyon

2

Kayaking on the Mreznica River.

¬ Try river rafting

3

Walks in Plitvice Lakes National Park.

¬ Splash about in waterfalls

4

Bike ride through villages & valleys.

5

Free day with optional excursions.

6

Rafting along the Una River.

7

Kayaking the Mreznica river canyon.

8

To Zagreb. Fly to UK.

about the trip Where will we stay? Hotel x 7 What meals are included? Breakfasts x 7, dinners x 7

¬ Discover magical landscapes

How do we travel? Minibus, on foot, raft, bicycle, canoe & kayak

¬ Explore unspoilt forests

Trip code: FCRV

¬ Walk in a beautiful national park

Traveller Rating

4.8 out of 5

Zagreb From/ To UK

why this trip? “Kayaking down crystal clear rivers with the added excitement of rapids and waterfalls in stunning unspoilt countryside with everchanging scenery. Pretty perfect.” The Daley family

SLOVENIA

When can we go?

CROATIA

Zvecaj Our base

Mreznica River Kayaking, cycling, waterfalls & canyons BOSNIA-HERZEGOVINA

Plitvice Lakes National Park Walks & waterfalls

Una River Rafting

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £779 | Child: £759 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £989 | Child: £954

Speak to a travel specialist 01962 737 560

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CROATIA

COASTAL CROATIA

For active families wanting to explore a unique region of Croatia duration 8 days

age guide 6 to 14

did you know?

Croatia has over 3,600 miles of coastline.

Explore the Trogir Riviera along the Dalmatian Coast. Discover many quiet, unspoilt beaches and bays as you kayak around the Drvenik islands and to the Blue Lagoon. Enjoy walks through the stunning Krka National Park and have fun splashing around in the Krka waterfalls. You’ll be based in the quaint medieval fishing village of Seget Donji. There are a number of good restaurants and a small market in the old town. Your apartment is ideally situated to explore the islands and it’s only a short distance to the UNESCO World Heritage cities of Trogir and Split.

itinerary

trip highlights

about the trip

1

Fly to Split. Explore Seget Donji.

¬ Kayak to the Blue Lagoon

2

Kayak to Trogir & boat trip to Split.

¬ Splash around in the Krka waterfalls

3

Boat trip to Krknjasi.

¬ Snorkel in the aquamarine waters

4

Visit Sibenik & the Krka waterfalls.

5

Free day. Optional fishing trip.

6

Boat trip to the Drvenik islands.

7

Free day to enjoy as you wish.

8

Fly back to the UK from Split.

¬ Paddle to World Heritage city of Trogir

Where will we stay? Apartments x 7 What meals are included? Breakfasts x 7, lunches x 2, dinner x 1

¬ Enjoy a city tour of Sibenik

How do we travel? Minibus, boat, kayak & on foot

¬ Taste some local fresh fish

Trip code: FCHL Traveller Rating

4.0 out of 5

Krka National Park Walks & waterfalls

When can we go?

Sibenik City tour

CROATIA

why this trip? “Our highlights of this trip have to be exploring Trogir and kayaking to the Blue Lagoon.” The Trangmar family

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Seget Donji Our base

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Pantana Beach Trogir City tour

Drvenik islands Kayaking & Blue Lagoon

Split From/ To UK

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £679 | Child: £649 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £884 | Child: £809


CROATIA

Active Teen Croatia

A variety of challenging activities to energise your teenagers duration 8 days

age guide 11 to 18

new

By exploring on foot and on the water, you’ll discover hidden secrets of Croatia and see famous attractions, such as the Blue Lagoon, from a different angle. From the east side of Ciovo, we explore places that only locals know about. On the Cetina River, you will take part in exhilarating rafting. Having explored the riviera by bike, you’ll head out canyoning in Zadvarje to explore subterranean tunnels, admire the flowing waterfalls and swim in natural pools. There is also time to explore and relax independently with many UNESCO World Heritage sites in close range.

itinerary

trip highlights

about the trip

1

Fly to Split. Explore Seget Donji.

¬ Swim in natural pools

2

Rafting on the Cetina River.

¬ Raft down the Centina River

3

Go mountain biking in Ciovo.

¬ See the church at the Lady of the Cliff

4

Hiking trip to the Lady of the Cliff.

5

Free day. Optional sea fishing trip.

6

Boat to Drvenik Veli & kayaking.

7

Canyoning at Zadvarje.

8

Fly back to the UK from Split.

Where will we stay? Apartments x 7

¬ Relax on beautiful island beaches

How do we travel? On foot, bicyle, boat, kayak & raft

¬ Kayak to the Blue Lagoon

Trip code: FCTM

¬ Enjoy delightful coastal views

Traveller Rating This is a brand new adventure. CROATIA

why this trip? “The beauty of the Croatian coastline is undisputed. An engaging variety of activities reveal every aspect of this setting.” Matt Bennett, Product Coordinator

What meals are included? Breakfasts x 7, lunches x 3, dinner x 1

When can we go?

Lady of the Cliff Hiking & Church Seget Donji Our base Ciovo Cycling Drvenik islands Kayaking & Blue Lagoon

Split From/ To UK

Zadvarje Canyoning Cetina River Rafting

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £769 | Child: £749 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £974 | Child: £909

Speak to a travel specialist 01962 737 560

51


Bringing the ‘Rotten Romans’ to life Mention the words Ancient Rome and a mass of images crowd our heads, invoked from days in the classroom learning of villas and mosaics, decadent food choices (stuffed dormice anyone?), sparring gladiators and above all, the bloodthirsty campaigns of the Roman legions. This fascinating slice of history is still very much on the school syllabus and where better to bring the books to life than exploring the secrets yourselves on a tour of the beautiful Bay of Naples? Your children will recognise the secrets of Ancient Rome at the ruined cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum from the ‘Horrible Histories’ books and TV show. Complete with frozen snapshots of everyday Ancient Roman life, such as intricate mosaics, ornamentation

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and the famous plaster casts of the victims of 79AD. These cities give a unique and privileged insight into the Ancient Romans and their lives. You’ll even be able to walk up the mountain that caused one of the most studied eruptions ever recorded, Mount Vesuvius herself. Geography and history in one visit – tick. It would be criminal to come to this part of Italy without exploring some of its other treasures – driving along

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the scenic Amalfi coast, visiting the idyllic island of Capri or wandering the cobbled streets of stylish Sorrento. Throw in some traditional and wildly messy Italian pizza and pasta making, and you’ve got a holiday destination with charm, fun, learning, and of course a whole lot of wonderful shared family experiences.

Find out more

Bring history to life on our Vesuvius & Pompeii tour.


ITALY

Vesuvius & pompeii Bring history to life on a week of exploration in Italy duration 8 days

age guide 5 to 18

Based in Sorrento, you’ll be perfectly positioned to visit Italy’s finest ancient sites, spectacular coastline and tiny islands. Uncover the secrets of Pompeii, climb the dizzy heights of Mount Vesuvius and explore the ruins of Herculaneum. Speed across to chic Capri and discover the dramatic scenery as you cruise around the island. Enjoy a beautiful scenic drive along the Amalfi Coast and take the road up into the hills, stopping for lunch and admiring the views. Have fun learning how to make authentic Italian pasta and tiramisu.

itinerary

WITH POOL

trip highlights

1

Fly to Naples, hotel in Sorrento.

¬ See the forgotten city of Pompeii

2

Full day visit to Capri Island.

¬ Boat trip to the fairytale Blue Grotto

3

Cookery class; free afternoon.

¬ Walk up Mount Vesuvius

4

Free day to explore local area.

5

Visit Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius.

6

Scenic drive along Amalfi Coast.

7

Visit to Herculaneum ruins.

8

Fly back to the UK.

¬ Scenic drive along the Amalfi Coast ¬ Explore the island of Capri

about the trip Where will we stay? Hotel x 7 What meals are included? Breakfasts x 7, lunches x 2, dinner x 1 How do we travel? Minibus, on foot & boat Trip code: FIBN

¬ Make and eat your own pasta

Traveller Rating

4.4 out of 5

From/ To UK

why this trip? “Walking in the footsteps of the Romans was fantastic! Our boys loved learning about the history from the fantastic guides in Pompeii and Herculaneum.” The Barrett family

Naples

Mount Vesuvius Walking

Herculaneum Ruins

ITALY Pompeii Ruins

Sorrento Our base & cooking

Capri Boat trip

Positano Walking

When can we go? FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £1,099 | Child: £999 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £1,274 | Child: £1,159

Speak to a travel specialist 01962 737 560

53


ITALY

Sicily Explorer

Explore the impressive volcanoes and beautiful islands surrounding Sicily duration 8 days

new

age guide 8 to 18

The island of Sicily is one of the most attractive in the Mediterranean. You’ll find deep gorges, bubbling volcanoes, pristine beaches and make legendary family memories. A visit to the interactive museum will help you understand the forces that shape Europe’s largest volcano, Mount Etna. Walking around volcanoes and up to their craters really brings this island to life. Enjoy striking black sand beaches on the rural island of Vulcano and the impressive views of neighbouring islands. Head to the village of San Vincenzo, before returning to Nebrodi National Park on the mainland for horse trekking in the green forests.

itinerary

WITH POOL

trip highlights

1

Fly to Catania. To Mount Etna.

¬ Climb up to the Gran Cratere on Vulcano

2

Etna volcano walking & museum.

¬ Hike the lunar landscapes of Mount Etna

3

To Alcantara Gorges & Taormina.

¬ Visit an interactive volcano museum

4

Beach & crater walk on Vulcano.

5

Visit Stromboli.

6

Transfer to Nebrodi National Park.

7

Horse trekking in Nebrodi NP.

8

Fly back to the UK.

¬ Horse riding in Nebrodi National Park ¬ Boat trip between Vulcano and Stromboli

What meals are included? Breakfasts x 7 How do we travel? Minibus, boat & on foot Trip code: FISE Traveller Rating This is a brand new adventure.

Stromboli

why this trip? Alcantara Gorges

Nebrodi National Park Horse trekking

ITALY

Matt Bennett, Product Coordinator

54

Where will we stay? Hotel x 5, farmhouse x 2

¬ Explore San Vincenzo and Ginostra

Vulcano Beaches & crater walk

“This trip is a great way to learn about the explosive power of nature. The itinerary fits in some great family activities.”

about the trip

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Mount Etna Walking

Catania

From/ To UK

When can we go? FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £1,199 | Child: £1,179 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £1,609 | Child: £1,484


MALTA & GOZO

active gozo

For families looking for an action packed yet easy going week away duration 8 days

age guide 8 to 18

did you know?

Gozo is approximately the same size as New York’s Manhattan Island.

Discover the delights and traditions of Gozo, a laid-back Mediterranean island just north of Malta, where you can enjoy both land and sea activities. Explore coastal paths by bicycle, abseil down rocks, explore caves and bays in kayaks, meet the locals and gain an insight into life away from the tourist trail. On your free day, you could laze on an open deck catamaran as it cruises through the crystal clear waters or dive in with a snorkel and fins. You’ll stay in a family-friendly, beach-front hotel located in the picturesque fishing village of Xlendi.

itinerary

trip highlights

WITH POOL

1

Fly to Malta. Transfer to Gozo.

¬ Go climbing and abseiling

2

Mountain biking along the coast.

¬ Explore caves and bays by kayak

3

Meet the locals & play bocce.

¬ Ride along coastal and country tracks

4

Free day to explore Victoria.

5

Go kayaking around caves & bays.

6

Free day. Optional catamaran trip.

7

Try rock climbing & abseiling.

8

Transfer to Malta. Fly to the UK.

why this trip? “The best parts of the trip were rock climbing, cycling and the cultural day in Gozo.” The Stewart family

about the trip Where will we stay? Hotel x 7

¬ Play ‘bocce’ with the locals ¬ Swim and snorkel in the Mediterranean

What meals are included? Breakfasts x 7, lunches x 2 How do we travel? Minibus, ferry, on foot, bicycle & kayak Trip code: FMAG

¬ Take a catamaran trip (optional)

Traveller Rating Gharb Cycling Xlendi Our base & climbing

4.0 out of 5

GOZO

Victoria Mgarr Ferry

Sea kayaking

When can we go?

Cirkewwa Ferry

MALTA Malta Airport From/ To UK

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £749 | Child: £719 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £979 | Child: £934

Speak to a travel specialist 01962 737 560

55


SPAIN

active catalonia

For thrill-seeking families wanting an adventure close to home duration 8 days

age guide 11 to 18

You’ll go with the flow, splashing through canyons on this active holiday in Spain. You’ll also go sea kayaking, mountain biking and explore beautiful medieval villages. You will be equipped with a wetsuit, helmet and safety harness as you swim through turquoise rivers, jump and slide over smooth rocks and abseil down waterfalls, all under the close instruction and supervision of our excellent professional instructors. Swimming has never been so much fun. Then take to the treetops as you navigate your way through the canopy and zip-wire across the forest.

itinerary

WITH * POOL

trip highlights

1

Fly to Girona. To Castello d’Empuries.

¬ Mountain bike along forest trails

2

River trekking adventure.

¬ Go sea kayaking on the Catalan coast

3

Multiple activities at Adventure Lake.

¬ Try canyoning through waterfalls

4

Free day to explore as you like.

5

Gorges de Salenys & Cala del Moli.

6

Kayak along the Catalan coast.

7

Canyoning in Gourg des Anelles.

8

Transfer to airport; fly to UK.

*Outdoor pool is 100m from the hotel

¬ Abseil down a rockface

“Highlights were canyoning and the river trek - the canyoning was very different and a big adventure.” The Hill family

What meals are included? Breakfasts x 7, lunch x 1 How do we travel? Minibus, on foot, kayak & bicycle

¬ Have fun on zip-wires and high ropes

Trip code: FSAC Traveller Rating

Gourg des Anelles Canyoning

4.2 out of 5

FRANCE

Castello d'Empuries Our base

Besalu Medieval town

SPAIN

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When can we go? FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £1,059 | Child: £1,049

From/ To UK

Girona

Gorges de Salenys Cala Del Moli

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Where will we stay? Hotel x 7

¬ Test your skills with a bow and arrow

Cap de Creus Kayaking

why this trip?

about the trip

Flight Inclusive from Adult: £1,299 | Child: £1,279


SPAIN

Active Pyrenees

A multi-activity holiday with an attractive mountain town as your base duration 7 days

age guide 8 to 18

new

This adventurous holiday will see you explore the mountains in Spain. Jump from rafting to cycling, walking to canyoning and even climbing. The activities take place under the guidance of expert instructors and in outstanding surroundings. You’ll be based in the heart of the Spanish Pyrenees in the small town of Benasque, a beautiful place surrounded by lakes, forests, glaciers and rivers. Plus, we’ve worked in free time to relax or for extra activities if you’re feeling especially energetic. It may be possible to accommodate younger children on this trip if certain activities are skipped.

itinerary

WITH POOL

trip highlights

1

Fly to Barcelona. To Benasque.

¬ Stay in a pretty Spanish mountain town

2

Walk at Aigualluts Coll de Toro.

¬ Combine activities and free time

3

Introductory rafting trip.

¬ Slide, abseil and jump down rivers

4

Go canyoning.

5

Take a climbing course.

6

Cycling tour near Benasque.

7

To Barcelona. Fly back to the UK.

¬ Get a bird’s eye view on a climbing course ¬ Cool off as you raft through mountains

about the trip Where will we stay? Hotel x 6 What meals are included? Breakfasts x 6 How do we travel? Minibus, raft, on foot & bike Trip code: FSAP

¬ Enjoy Pyrenean scenery on foot

Traveller Rating This is a brand new adventure.

why this trip? “The Benasque Valley is a beautiful corner of the Spanish Pyrenees. The area makes an excellent base for this multiactivity family adventure.” Matt Bennett, Product Coordinator

Benasque Our base

Aigualluts Coll de Toro Walking

Campo Rafting

FRANCE

SPAIN

Barcelona

From/ To UK

When can we go? FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £799 | Child: £761 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £1,088 | Child: £1,024

Speak to a travel specialist 01962 737 560

57


SLOVENIA

alpine slovenia

An active family adventure in the Alpine meadows of Slovenia age guide 8 to 18

duration 8 days

did you know?

Skocjan Caves contain one of the largest known underground chambers.

Enjoy exploring the Alpine region of Slovenia with walks around the Lake Bohinj. Take a trek in the Julian Alps and enjoy the thrill of white-water rafting down the Soca River. Swoop through the trees on zip-lines and experience the thrill of high rope bridges, go swimming in Lake Bled and have a go at summer tobogganing. Head down to the beautiful coast for a day to explore the limestone caves of Skocjan. Go sea kayaking and visit the coastal towns of Secovlje and Piran. Then, back to the mountains to cycle through the Alpine meadows and even have a go at rock climbing.

itinerary

trip highlights

WITH * POOL

1

Fly to Ljubljana. Transfer to Bled.

¬ Rafting down the Soca River

2

Walks around Lake Bohinj.

¬ Walks around lakes and mountains

3

Go rafting on the Soca River.

¬ Cycle through summer Alpine meadows

4

Treetop adventure at Lake Bled.

5

Skocjan Caves & kayaking.

6

Cycling past rivers & valleys.

7

Rock climbing in Bohinjska Bela.

8

Fly back to the UK.

¬ Challenge yourself at rock climbing ¬ Explore Skocjan Caves

What meals are included? Breakfasts x 7, dinners x 7 How do we travel? Minibus, on foot, kayak, bike & toboggan Trip code: FSAA

Kranjska Gora Cycling Soca River Rafting

Traveller Rating AUSTRIA

4.2 out of 5

Lake Bled Our base

Lake Bohinj Walking ITALY

From/ To UK

Bohinjska Bela Rock climbing

Ljubljana

SLOVENIA

why this trip?

58

Where will we stay? Hotel x 7

¬ Enjoy a 1,000m toboggan run

*Pool in nearby hotel with free admission

“We loved toboganning in the summer. A great active and funfilled week with the family.” The Sheron family

about the trip

Skocjan Caves Walking

Piran Kayaking

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CROATIA

When can we go? FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £1,199 | Child: £1,179 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £1,439 | Child: £1,409


CZECH REPUBLIC, SLOVAKIA & POLAND

prague & tatras adventure Three countries in eight days - this is an action-packed holiday duration 8 days

age guide 8 to 18

Cross the borders of the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Poland on this week-long family adventure. Explore the cobbled streets of Prague before boarding an overnight train to the Carpathian Mountains of Slovakia. Here, you can enjoy beautiful mountain walks and bike rides. Learn about the medieval castles of Spis and Niedzica. Cycle to Kezmarok and raft through the Dunajec Gorge. Your adventure concludes in Krakow with optional excursions to the Wieliczka Salt Mine or Auschwitz.

trip highlights

itinerary

about the trip

1

Fly to Prague. Free afternoon.

¬ See three countries in a week

2

City tour. Overnight train to Slovakia.

¬ Discover the cobbled streets of Prague

3

Waterfalls & hike to Skalnate Pleso.

¬ Explore the Tatras and Carpathian Mountains

4

Spis Castle & cycle to Kezmarok.

5

Optional trip to Slovak Paradise Park.

6

Rafting, cycling & Niedzica Castle.

7

Free day to explore Krakow.

8

Fly back to the UK.

why this trip? “What a week! Exploring the beautiful, old Eastern European cities with fantastic activities in the mountains too - what more could you want?” The Warnock family

¬ Go rafting through Dunajec Gorge ¬ Cycle through the Slovakian landscape

Where will we stay? Hotel x 6, overnight train x 1 What meals are included? Breakfasts x 7 How do we travel? Minibus, train, on foot, raft & bike Trip code: FSEE

¬ Visit medieval castles on foot

Traveller Rating

4.2 out of 5 POLAND

To UK

Prague City tour

Krakow City tour Dunajec Gorge

From UK

CZECH REPUBLIC

AUSTRIA

Skalnate Pleso

Pieniny Niedzica Castle

Poprad

SLOVAKIA

Levoca

Spis Castle

HUNGARY

When can we go? FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £1,099 | Child: £1,049 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £1,269 | Child: £1,204

Speak to a travel specialist 01962 737 560

59


An Iceland for all seasons Iceland is high on the bucket list of many an adventurous family but when is the best time to visit to make the most of this glorious land? Iceland conjures images of the untamed wild, from frozen solid waterfalls and fabled Northern Light displays, to volcanically heated pools and Viking clap chants performed on the football pitch. The land of the midnight sun is a country packed full of eccentricities, bizarre food and mile upon mile of endless open wilderness. Year round you can enjoy magnificent mountains, glaciers and hot spouting geysers which erupt every eight minutes without fail. Gigantic whales cruise past the shoreline and stocky Icelandic ponies cross your path with their unique gait called the tolt, which is somewhere between a trot and a canter. Each season certainly has its pros and cons. Winter sees the vivid tapestry of the Aurora Borealis lighting up the

60

night skies, deep snow the perfect consistency for family snowball fights, icebergs crowding the waters and hot springs to warm your bones, surrounded by a landscape of snow and ice. The clue is the name, it is cold and icy in the Icelandic winter but wrap up cosily and you will have the best winter adventure holiday it is possible to have. Warmer weather brings with it returning migrant birds, including the comical and colourful puffin that settles down to rear small pufflings in burrows on the craggy cliffs. The kinder temperatures mean that summer is the time when more visitors come to Iceland, but be assured that people simply melt into the vastness of the landscape. Glacial water starts cascading over the countless waterfalls, from giants like Gulfoss and Skogafoss to barely-there

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rainbows catching the light high up in the mountains. Summer too brings the birth of lambs, a momentous event in a country whose sheep population is more than double the human, and whose woollen jumper industry is surpassed by none. Whatever the season, there is a saying in Iceland that if you don’t like the weather just wait five minutes. The unpredictability means you could well have warm sunshine, biting wind and even snow within just an afternoon. So pack a sense of adventure and your whole outdoors wardrobe and you will be well equipped to enjoy this wild and beautiful country in all its natural glory.

Find out more

We’ve launched two new adventures in Iceland. See opposite and overleaf.


ICELAND

iceland explorer

Explore a vast geothermal landscape during the longer summer days duration 6 days

new

age guide 11 to 18

The nature in Iceland is out to amaze you, from the imposing volcanoes to the roaring waterfalls and incredible natural phenomenon such as The Great Geysir. Appreciate the many layers of the land while bathing in the Blue Lagoon, walking through the volcanic landscape and cycling around the vast open spaces. Soak up the pleasant atmosphere of the colourful city of Reykjavik, the world’s most northerly capital. Head out on a majestic whale safari to see minke whales, humpback whales, white-beaked dolphins and harbour porpoises.

trip highlights

itinerary 1

Fly to Reykjavik. Walk in Krysuvik.

¬ Geothermal areas of Geysir and Krysuvikir

2

Gullfoss falls & volcanoes.

¬ Go whale watching from Reykjavik

3

Cycling around Hveragerdi.

¬ Relax in the Blue Lagoon

4

Visit Thingvellir & tour of Reykjavik.

5

Whale safari & free time to explore.

6

Blue Lagoon. Fly back to the UK.

¬ Cycle in the stunning wilderness ¬ Experience long days of sunlight

Matt Bennett, Product Coordinator

Where will we stay? Hotels x 5 What meals are included? Breakfasts x 5, dinners x 3 How do we travel? On foot, car, bike & boat Trip code: FIIE

¬ Discover Iceland’s Viking past in Thingvellir

Traveller Rating This is a brand new adventure.

why this trip? “Iceland in the summer is green and bubbling with life and geothermal activity. You’ll be entering a world of waterfalls, volcanoes, lagoons and whales.”

about the trip

Gullfoss falls Reykjavik Whale watching From/ To UK

When can we go?

Thingvellir

ICELAND Hveragerdi Cycling

Blue Lagoon Swimming

Krysuvik Walking

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £1,899 | Child: £1,879 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £2,139 | Child: £2,074

Speak to a travel specialist 01962 737 560

61


ICELAND

winter iceland

Watch the Northern Lights dance across the star-filled skies duration 6 days

new

age guide 8 to 18

did you know?

The Northern Lights can be seen from space which practically makes you an astronaut!

This Iceland adventure is both magical and memorable. Hveragerdi is a literal hotspot of geothermal acitivity and is the ideal location to watch the Northern Lights. Witness the volcanic steam vents and spouting geysers of this atmospheric, icy wilderness. Head up into the mountains by 4WD to Thingvellir National Park, a real expedition for all the family. You’ll visit the area where Viking parliaments used to meet before returning to Reykjavik. Children will enjoy the snowy landscapes, bubbling mud pools and warming up in the iconic thermal springs of the Blue Lagoon.

trip highlights

itinerary 1

Fly to Reykjavik. Walk in Krysuvik.

¬ Watch the iconic Northern Lights

2

To Gullfoss falls via Geysir.

¬ Explore the nature park near Hveragerdi

3

4WD tour & Northern Lights.

¬ Take a 4WD trip to the icy volcanoes

4

Visit Thingvellir NP & tour Reykjavik.

5

Whale safari & free time to explore.

6

Blue Lagoon. Fly back to the UK.

¬ Enjoy a city tour of Reykjavik

about the trip Where will we stay? Hotel x 5 What meals are included? Breakfasts x 5, dinners x 3 How do we travel? On foot, 4WD & boat

¬ Winter whale watching

Trip code: FIWE

¬ Relax in the Blue Lagoon

Traveller Rating This is a brand new adventure. Gullfoss falls

why this trip? “An iconic winter family adventure with a warm core. Witness great contrasts between ice, snow, volcanic steam and the magical Northern Lights.”

Reykjavik Whale watching From/ To UK

ICELAND Hveragerdi Nature park

Blue Lagoon Swimming

Krysuvikur Walking

Matt Bennett, Product Coordinator

62

When can we go?

Thingvellir

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FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £1,899 | Child: £1,879 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £2,224 | Child: £2,139


SLOVAKIA

winter slovakia

A winter experience taking you into the remote Tatras Mountains age guide 7 to 18

duration 8 days

The stunning Tatras Mountains is a magical, snowy landscape where you can take part in a variety of winter activities. Try both downhill and cross-country skiing in the finest setting in Eastern Europe. Whether travelling by ski, snowshoe, husky sled or horse and cart, there is a great outdoors to be explored. Venture into the snow-laden pine forests on a wilderness adventure from Tatranska Lomnica and take advantage of the thermal waters at Bukowina, where you can play on water slides and relax in hydromassage pools.

itinerary

trip highlights

about the trip

1

Fly to Poprad. To Tatranska Lomnica.

¬ Try different types of skiing in the Tatras

2

Downhill skiing from Tatranska Lomnica.

¬ Horse and cart ride from Zdiar

3

Cross country-skiing in Strbske Pleso.

¬ Hike to the mystical Zelene Pleso hut

4

Visit Velka Fatra National Park.

5

Winter walk to Zelene Pleso.

6

Snowshoeing & horse & cart ride.

7

Free day with optional activities.

8

Fly back to the UK from Poprad.

¬ Relax in the thermal pools in Bukowina ¬ Husky sledding in the stunning Velka Fatra

How do we travel? Car, ski, husky sled, on foot, horse & cart Trip code: FSWS Traveller Rating

4.1 out of 5 Bukowina Thermal pools

“We all enjoyed the range of winter activities - so much more fun than your normal skiing holiday!” The Allan family

What meals are included? Breakfasts x 7, lunches x 2, dinner x 1

¬ Optional visit to caves and villages

POLAND

why this trip?

Where will we stay? Hotel x 6, mountain hut x 1

SLOVAKIA

Zelene Pleso Strbske Pleso Cross-country skiing

Velka Fatra National Park Dog sledding

When can we go? Zdiar Snowshoeing & horse & cart Tatranska Lomnica Our base Poprad From/ To UK

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £989 | Child: £929 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £1,469 | Child: £1,409

Speak to a travel specialist 01962 737 560

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FINLAND

northern lights adventure Head out in search of the Aurora Borealis in Lapland age guide 8 to 18

duration 8 days

Snowshoe, ski and sledge your way around the winter wonderland of Lapland, even meeting the Sami folk and their reindeer. Wrap up warm to travel across a frozen lake and go ice fishing. Learn how to ‘mush mush’ your husky team through the snowy landscape and feel the icy wind on your cheeks as you go. Don’t miss out on essential winter survival skills such as making a fire, identifying animal tracks and even how to read nature to predict the weather. We’ve factored in lots of free time to take advantage of the activities and equipment available at the hotel.

itinerary

trip highlights

1

Fly to Ivalo airport.

¬ See the Northern Lights

2

Snow activities & the Northern Lights.

¬ Snowshoe across Lapland

3

Meet the Sami & their reindeer.

¬ Experience a husky sledge ride

4

Learn winter survival skills.

5

Husky safari & Inari village visit.

6

Ice fishing at Lake Menesjarvi.

7

Free day for optional activities.

8

Depart Ivalo. Fly back to the UK.

about the trip Where will we stay? Hotel x 7 What meals are included? Breakfasts x 7, lunches x 6, dinners x 7

¬ Feed the reindeer ¬ Meet the local Sami people

How do we travel? Minibus, snowmobile, sledge, husky & sleigh

¬ Learn winter survival skills

Trip code: FFNL Traveller Rating

4.3 out of 5

why this trip? “There was so much snow everywhere! With all the equipment available 24 hours a day, the children were in heaven!” The Evans family

64

When can we go? Snowmobiling Reindeer Farm

Inari - Our base

Lake Menesjarvi Ice fishing

Visit our website familiesworldwide.co.uk

Ivalo (via Helsinki)

FINLAND

From/ To UK

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £1,699 | Child: £1,579 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £2,259 | Child: £2,034


FINLAND

ice pop

A recommended snowy adventure for younger families age guide 5 to 14

duration 5 days

Fly up to the Arctic Circle to enter a magical land thick with snow and watch your children’s eyes light up with glee. Feel the thrill of riding in a sledge pulled by a snowmobile across open landscapes to see reindeer, walk through snowcapped trees on snowshoes, meet the indigenous Sami people, and learn to cross-country ski. Snowsuits and snowboots are provided. Extend your trip by a day and cross the border into Norway to the edge of the Arctic Ocean and sleep in a Snowhotel (minimum age - seven years old).

itinerary

trip highlights

about the trip

1

Fly to Ivalo airport. To hotel.

¬ Go sledging and play in the snow

2

Enjoy a range of snow activities.

¬ See the Northern Lights

3

Husky safari & visit Sami museum.

¬ Learn about the Sami people and reindeer

4

Meet the Sami reindeer herders.

5

Transfer to Ivalo airport. Fly to UK. Please contact us to extend your trip to include a night in the Snowhotel.

Where will we stay? Hotel x 4

¬ Have a go at snowshoeing

What meals are included? Breakfasts x 4, dinners x 4 How do we travel? Minibus, sledge & sleigh

¬ Go on a husky ride

Trip code: FFIP

¬ Sleep in a Snowhotel (extension)

Traveller Rating

4.0 out of 5 why this trip? “Finland is an amazing, beautiful playground for adults and children alike. The Snowhotel staff went out of their way to make it an out of this world experience.” The Clarke family

When can we go?

Snowmobiling & snowshoeing Reindeer Farm

Inari - Our base

Ivalo (via Helsinki)

FINLAND

From/ To UK

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £1,279 | Child: £1,099 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £1,774 | Child: £1,489

Speak to a travel specialist 01962 737 560

65


asia

Sri Lanka (page 67) - India (page 71) - Nepal (page 75) China (page 76) - Japan (page 78)

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SRI LANKA

Active Sri Lanka

An adventurous journey around the pearl of the Indian Ocean age guide 11 to 18

duration 9 days

did you know? Tea from Sri Lanka is known as Ceylon Tea. Ceylon is what the country was called until 1972.

With so much varied and stunning scenery in a country smaller than Ireland, you will soon understand why Sri Lanka is one of our favourite destinations. If you want to explore the country’s highlights on a family holiday like no other, then Active Sri Lanka is perfect. Cycle a coastal road part of the way towards the famous cultural triangle, here you will explore caves, climb the Sigirya Rock Fortress, spot elephants and learn to cook your favourite Sri Lankan dish. Enjoy sacred Kandy and the beautiful tea country before rounding off with an exhilarating white-water rafting experience.

itinerary

trip highlights

WITH POOL

1

Fly overnight to Colombo.

¬ Play cricket with the locals

2

Free time to relax on the beach.

¬ Climb the Sigirya Rock Fortress

3

Cycling & Dambulla caves.

¬ Cycle along the coast

4

Sigiriya & elephant watching.

5

Cycle, trek & boat trip. To Kandy.

6

Botanical gardens & city tour.

7

Train to tea plantations.

8

Kithulgala white-water rafting.

9

Drive to Colombo. Fly to UK.

Where will we stay? Hotels x 7 What meals are included? Breakfasts x 7, lunches x 3

¬ Go white-water rafting ¬ Ride a train through tea plantations

How do we travel? Minibus, bicycle, train, raft & on foot Trip code: FSAL

¬ Watch a dance show in Kandy Hiriwadunna Village trek

Traveller Rating

Minneriya Cycling

5.0 out of 5

Dambulla Temples

See page 70 for extension options.

Kurunegala Cycling

Sigiriya Rock Fortress

why this trip? “The mixture of physical and educational activities meant that the kids were happy throughout. Our guide, Suresh, was fantastic.” The Pritchard family

about the trip

When can we go? Kandy Temple of the Tooth

Negombo Beach resort Colombo

From/ To UK

Nuwara Eliya Tea plantation

Kithulgala Rafting

SRI LANKA

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £1,179 | Child: £1,099 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £1,734 | Child: £1,529

Speak to a travel specialist 01962 737 560

67


SRI LANKA

ceylon discovery The perfect adventure for culture lovers age guide 5 to 18

duration 14 days

Sri Lanka is an island of enormous variety. Discover the amazing history of early Buddhism, lush green jungle, cool highlands, ornate temples and wonderful food. This holiday will allow for plenty of interaction with the local people, enabling you to learn about their culture, dance, clothes, customs, religion and food. The children will love watching Asian elephants on a jeep safari in Udawalawe National Park. Oh, and don’t forget those palm-fringed, uncrowded beaches with their outrigger canoes and stilt fishermen. It’s paradise - what more could you want?

itinerary

trip highlights

WITH POOL

about the trip

1/2

Fly to Colombo. Beach time.

¬ Learn a Sri Lankan dance

3-5

Cultural triangle, village visit, cycle ride & cooking class.

¬ Climb the Sigiriya Rock Fortress

6

Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress.

7

Kandy, Temple of the Tooth.

8

Scenic train to tea plantation.

¬ Have fun on the beach

What will we travel by? Minibus, bicycle, bullock cart, train & on foot

9/10

Udawalawe NP jeep safaris.

¬ Explore cave temples

Trip code: FSCD

11

To Koggala for beach time.

12/13

Free time at the beach.

14

Drive to Colombo. Fly to UK.

¬ Elephant watching on safari ¬ Learn to cook a local dish

Wattala Beach resort

why this trip?

68

What meals are included? Breakfasts x 12, lunches x 2, dinners x 5

Traveller Rating

4.7 out of 5

Sigiriya Rock Fortress

See page 70 for extension options.

“Sri Lanka didn’t fail to amaze and the children loved every minute of it, especially the beaches!” The Robson family

Polonnaruwa Cycling

Dambulla Temples

Where will we stay? Hotel x 10, fixed camp x 2

Kandy Temple of the Tooth Nuwara Eliya Tea plantation

Colombo

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

SRI LANKA

From/ To UK

Visit our website familiesworldwide.co.uk

When can we go? FEBRUARY HALF TERM

Udawalawe NP Elephants

Koggala Beach

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £1,449 | Child: £1,369 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £2,414 | Child: £2,109


SRI LANKA

sri lanka in style An excellent Asian odyssey in a little more comfort duration 14 days

new

age guide 5 to 18

Explore the highlights of Sri Lanka in comfort, staying in 4* hotels with swimming pools. Relax on the beach after a long flight before exploring Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle. From Kandy, you’ll take a scenic train ride through the tea country and spend a full day in Horton Plains. Children will love watching out for macaque monkeys, elephants and leopards in Yala National Park. Visit the charming colonial city of Galle en route to your family-friendly beachfront hotel in Bentota. You’ll spend a day spotting the bird and marine life in the mangrove swamps of the Bentota River before ending your tour relaxing on the beach.

itinerary

trip highlights

WITH POOL

1/2

Arrive Colombo. Relax on beach.

¬ Explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa

3

Visit Dambulla caves.

¬ Climb to the top of Sigiriya Rock Fortress

4

Explore Polonnaruwa. Jeep safari.

¬ Jeep safari at Minneriya National Park

5

Climb Sigiriya. Visit spice garden.

6

Kandy - Temple of the Tooth.

7

Train ride. Visit a tea factory.

8

Trek in Horton Plains.

9

Wildlife safari in Yala NP.

10

Visit Galle. Relax on the beach.

11

Spot wildlife in mangroves.

12

Free time at the beach.

13/14

Drive to Colombo. Fly to UK.

¬ Visit Kandy’s Temple of the Tooth ¬ Trek at Horton Plains National Park

about the trip Where will we stay? Hotel x 11 What meals are included? Breakfasts x 11 How do we travel? Minibus, jeep, train, on foot & boat

¬ Search for leopards at Yala National Park

Trip code: FSSL

Minneriya National Park Jeep safari Polonnaruwa Dambulla

Traveller Rating This is a brand new adventure.

Caves

Sigiriya Rock Fortress Kandy Temple of the Tooth

From/ To UK

Colombo

Nuwara Eliya Tea factory

See page 70 for extension options. Bentota Beach & mangroves

Galle

SRI LANKA Horton Plains Trekking

Yala NP Safari

When can we go? FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £2,060 | Child: £1,930 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £2,799 | Child: £2,499

Speak to a travel specialist 01962 737 560

69


SRI LANKA

extensions in SRI LANKA Why not make the most of your time together with an extra few days in Sri Lanka?

Mirissa Beach

Yala National Park

Relax on golden palm-lined beaches

Sri Lanka’s oldest national park

A beautiful, exotic crescent beach on Sri Lanka’s south coast. Take a whale-watching trip (seasonal), go surfing, snorkelling or simply relax and play in the sand.

Yala is fantastic for families who adore wildlife watching. Spot colourful peacocks, watch elephants roaming through thick forests and hope to see the elusive leopard.

Please contact us for prices.

Please contact us for prices.

Tailor-made SRI LANKA Enjoy some of the wonders of Sri Lanka, visiting the highlights of the country as well as some of the hidden gems. Travel at a relaxed pace, staying at family-friendly hotels with swimming pools. The perfect itinerary focuses on a mixture of culture, wildlife watching and beach time, including activities suitable for all the family.

Cultural Triangle Spend around five days in this area exploring ancient cities, temples and statues. Climb the rock fortress of Sigiriya and go on safari in search of elephants. Tea Country Enjoy culture, traditional music and dancing in Kandy. From here, the scenery changes to steep misty roads that twist through lush green countryside. Safari & Beach in the Southern Province Spot elephants, sloths, leopards and jackals on an exhilarating jeep safari in Yala. Visit colonial Galle and take a boat safari through the mangroves. We recommend 14 days for this itinerary giving a great introduction to Sri Lanka. Please contact us to discuss a tailor-made holiday for your family.

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INDIA

Backwaters of Kerala A relaxing journey in the tranquil south of India duration 12 days

age guide 5 to 18

did you know? The temple city of Madurai is said to contain more than 33,000 sculptures.

The region of Kerala is fun, fascinating and exotic - perfect for a family looking for a slow-paced and culturally-rich adventure. Learn about the unusual rituals of the Kathakali dancers and take an optional sunset cruise in Kochi. Enjoy a change of scenery, first at the old British hill station of Munnar, set in the cool Western Ghats and then at the temples of Madurai. At Periyar National Park, you’ll see herds of wild elephants and immerse yourself in local life at a comfortable homestay. Finally, relax as you cruise the tranquil backwaters of Malabar’s rivers and lakes on a converted rice barge.

itinerary

trip highlights

WITH POOL

1

Overnight flight to Kochi.

¬ Sleep on board an Indian houseboat

2

Optional evening sunset cruise.

¬ Learn to cook a yummy curry

3

Kochi - martial arts & dance show.

¬ Meet the Kathakali dancers

4

Enjoy the landscapes of Munnar.

5

Wildlife sanctuary & tea factory.

6

To Madurai. Temples & ceremony.

7

Madurai sightseeing tour.

8

To Thekkady. Village visit.

9

Periyar National Park wildlife walk.

10

Rice barge backwaters cruise.

11

To Kochi. Free time to relax.

12

Fly back to UK.

See page 74 for extension options and see website for details of a half term itinerary.

¬ Watch how tea is made on a tea plantation ¬ Experience an authentic homestay

about the trip Where will we stay? Hotels x 8, homestay x 1, rice barge x 1 What meals are included? Breakfasts x 10, lunch x 1, dinners x 2 How do we travel? Minibus, rice barge, on foot & rickshaw Trip code: FIBS

¬ Spot wildlife in Periyar National Park

Traveller Rating

4.2 out of 5

From/ To UK

Munnar Hill Station Tea plantation

When can we go?

Kochi

Madurai Temples

INDIA Periyar National Park Elephants Alappuzha Backwaters

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £1,099 | Child: £1,039 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £1,669 | Child: £1,499

Speak to a travel specialist 01962 737 560

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INDIA

Taj & tigers Great for adventurous families

duration 11 days

age guide 5 to 18

Take in the intense sights, sounds and smells of India’s Golden Triangle. Discover temples and a maze of alleyways in Old Delhi’s traditional bazaar. Watch the delight on the faces of your children as they catch a glimpse of their first tiger in the wild at Ranthambore National Park. See the beautifully painted havelis (private mansions) in Nawalgarh and wander the palaces and courtyards of the Amber Fort. Explore atmospheric Jaipur, the deserted Mughal city of Fatehpur Sikri, and finally, the world’s most beautiful building - the Taj Mahal.

itinerary

trip highlights

WITH POOL

1/2

Overnight flight to Delhi. City tour.

¬ Spot tigers in Ranthambore

3

To Surajgarh, camel-cart safari.

¬ Haggle in a local market

4

Nawalgarh to visit a local school.

¬ Go for a ride on a camel cart

5

Jaipur Bollywood film & puppets.

6

Explore Amber Fort & free time.

7/8

Ranthambore National Park game drives - spot tigers.

9

To Agra via Fatehpur Sikri.

10

See the Taj at sunrise. Train to Delhi.

11

Fly back to the UK.

See page 74 for extension options and see website for details of a half term itinerary.

why this trip?

“I watched my daughter fall in love with beautiful sights, vibrant colours, and friendly people.” The Harris family

72

about the trip Where will we stay? Hotels x 9

¬ Spend time at a school in Nawalgarh

What meals are included? Breakfasts x 9, lunches x 3, dinners x 4

¬ Stand in awe of the majestic Taj Mahal

How do we travel? Train, minibus, camel cart, jeep & rickshaw

¬ Wander the ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri

Trip code: FITT Traveller Rating

Delhi

4.8 out of 5

From/ To UK

Surajgarh Camel-cart safari

When can we go?

Nawalgarh School visit

INDIA Fatehpur Sikri Deserted city Jaipur Pink City

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Agra Taj Mahal

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £949 | Child: £799 Ranthambore NP Tiger safari

Flight Inclusive from Adult: £1,529 | Child: £1,269


INDIA

INDIA IN STYLE

Enjoy the highlights of India in a little more comfort duration 12 days

new

age guide 5 to 18

Experience the highlights of northern India while staying at beautiful heritage hotels and 4* properties, with some extra special experiences along the way. What an adventure - explore the colourful narrow alleyways of Old Delhi’s bazaar, watch a breathtaking sunrise over the Taj Mahal and your children will never forget your rickshaw safari through Keoladeo National Park. Experience rural life in a local village and stay in a beautiful heritage hotel before continuing on to Ranthambore National Park in search of tigers. Spend time exploring Jaipur, known as the Pink City, and watch a Bollywood movie in a traditional cinema.

itinerary

WITH POOL

trip highlights

1

Overnight flight to Delhi.

¬ Watch the sunrise over the Taj Mahal

2

Arrive Delhi. Afternoon city tour.

¬ Stay in a heritage hotel

3

Visit Agra Fort and Baby Taj.

¬ Spot tigers in Ranthambore National Park

4

Visit Taj Mahal. Travel to Bharatpur.

5

Visit a rural village.

6

To Ranthambore National Park.

7

Wildlife viewing in Ranthambore.

8

To Jaipur. Watch a Bollywood film.

9

Amber Fort. Free afternoon.

10

To Delhi. Free time to explore.

11/12

Overnight flight to UK.

¬ Bird watch in Keoladeo National Park ¬ Visit Jaipur - the Pink City of India

why this trip?

Rhian Purches, Product Coordinator

Where will we stay? Hotel x 9 What meals are included? Breakfasts x 9, lunches x 2, dinners x 4 How do we travel? Rickshaw, minibus & safari jeep

¬ Ride in a cycle rickshaw Delhi

Trip code: FICI Traveller Rating This is a brand new adventure.

From/ To UK

When can we go? INDIA

See page 74 for extension options.

“This trip is a great way to see the highlights of India, staying in some heritage hotels along the way.”

about the trip

Bharatpur Village visit Jaipur Pink City

Agra Taj Mahal

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £1,299 | Child: £1,197 Ranthambore NP Tiger safari

Flight Inclusive from Adult: £1,879 | Child: £1,669

Speak to a travel specialist 01962 737 560

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INDIA

extensions in india Why not make the most of your time together with an extra few days in India?

goa Beach extension Unspoilt beaches, majestic churches and monuments. Stay at one of the most beautiful beaches in the region. Varca beach is ideal for families who prefer to get away from the crowds. Relax on the palm-fringed pristine sand, go dolphin watching, boating or explore some of the magnificent monasteries. Please contact us for prices.

Darjeeling Extension Spectacular scenery in the foothills of the Himalayas. Darjeeling is known for its tea gardens, Toy Train and views of Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world. Venture into the bustling streets of the hill station, explore the Buddhist monasteries or simply sip the local tea and enjoy the scenery. Please contact us for prices.

Mararikulam Beach extension A peaceful beach and fishing village. Kerala has quiet and family-friendly beaches that are well worth a visit. Enjoy the slower pace of life, green surroundings and breathtaking sunsets or, if you crave more activity, take a bicycle ride around the surrounding countryside. Please contact us for prices.

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NEPAL

Himalayan Adventure The perfect choice for mountain loving families duration 13 days

age guide 5 to 18

From chaotic Kathmandu to peaceful Pokhara and the towering peaks of the Annapurnas, this is an unforgettable family adventure. Combine awesome scenery and adventure in beautiful Nepal. Stretch your legs on a mini-trek in the Himalayas - an expedition into the hills with an overnight stay near a spectacular lookout. Spend time visiting traditional Nepali villages, try white-water rafting on the Trisuli River and explore the jungle at Chitwan National Park by jeep. You’ll see sunbathing crocodiles, rhinos, tigers and an abundance of birdlife.

itinerary

WITH POOL

trip highlights

1/2

Overnight flight to Kathmandu.

¬ Head on a mini-trek in the Annapurnas

3/4

Walking tour of old Bhaktapur, pottery making & farm stay.

¬ Feel the thrill of white-water rafting

5

Rafting on Trisuli River.

6

Pokhara - stay in a lakeside hotel.

7/8

Annapurna trek & traditional Nepali cultural evening.

9

To Bandipur NP - explore village.

10

Royal Chitwan National Park.

11

See wildlife by canoe & on foot.

12

Fly to Kathmandu. Free afternoon.

13

¬ Search for wildife in Chitwan National Park ¬ Try your hand at pottery making

“My eight year old daughter loved every minute of it!” The Brook family

Where will we stay? Hotels x 7, farm x 2, camp x 1, teahouse x 1 What meals are included? Breakfasts x 11, lunches x 3, dinners x 4

¬ Explore the jungle on foot

How do we travel? Minibus, on foot, raft, plane & jeep

¬ Stay on a farm in Nuwakot

Trip code: FNHA Traveller Rating

5.0 out of 5 TIBET

When can we go?

Pokhara Trekking

Fly back to the UK.

why this trip?

about the trip

Bandipur Village

Nuwakot Farm stay

NEPAL Chitwan Safari INDIA

From/ To UK

Kathmandu

Bhaktapur Medieval city

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £1,479 | Child: £1,299 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £1,964 | Child: £1,669

Speak to a travel specialist 01962 737 560

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CHINA

Panda Express

Immerse yourselves in ancient Asia and explore a modern metropolis duration 14 days

age guide 7 to 18

A country of contrasts: historic monuments, ancient traditions and quaint rural scenery versus vast modern cities, soaring skyscrapers and ground-breaking advancements. Begin in Beijing, a city full of myths and legends. Take a guided trip to a quiet section of the Great Wall for a taste of this enormous feat which spans 5,500 miles across this vast country. See the 8,000 strong Terracotta Army and native pandas. Experience traditional villages, rice fields and explore the waterways of Yangshuo by bicycle and raft. End your family activity holiday in the exhilarating metropolis of Shanghai.

itinerary

trip highlights

WITH POOL

1/2

Overnight flight to Beijing.

¬ Meet a giant panda

3

Visit Great Wall & Summer Palace.

¬ See the iconic Terracotta Warriors

4

Beijing city tour. Train to Xian.

¬ Walk part of the Great Wall

5

Bike ride & calligraphy writing.

6

Visit the Terracotta Warriors.

7

Fly to Chengdu, panda centre.

8

To Leshan. See Giant Buddha.

9-11

To Yangshuo. Bamboo rafting, cooking class, bike ride & climbing.

12

Fly to Shanghai, explore the city.

13/14

Overnight flight to UK.

¬ Go symbol hunting in the Forbidden City ¬ Experience a high speed train in Shanghai

What meals are included? Breakfasts x 11, lunch x 1, dinner x 1 How do we travel? Plane, train, raft, minibus, on foot & bike Trip code: FCPE Traveller Rating

MONGOLIA

4.8 out of 5

From UK

Beijing

Mutianyu Great Wall

When can we go?

Xian Terracotta Warriors

why this trip?

76

Where will we stay? Hotels x 10, overnight train x 1

¬ Learn to cook Chinese food

Chengdu Pandas

“China is like a Chinese puzzle, once you open it, the experience just keeps getting better!” The Kaloczi family

about the trip

CHINA

To UK

Leshan Giant Buddha

Yangshuo VIETNAM LAOS

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Shanghai City tour

TAIWAN

Hong Kong Extension

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £2,549 | Child: £2,499 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £3,319 | Child: £3,084


CHINA

extensions in cHINA Why not make the most of your time together with an extra few days in China?

hONG kONG CITY BREAK EXTENSION Spend time in the world’s most vertical city. Continue your holiday with a few days in Hong Kong. The opportunities for things to see and do in the city are endless with countless markets, theme parks and other attractions. Be sure to capture the outstanding views of the harbour and skyscrapers. Please contact us for prices.

Speak to a travel specialist 01962 737 560

77


JAPAN

Tailor-made jAPAN did you know? Over 90% of the Japanese population buys a comic book every day.

SAMURAI, SUSHI & SUMO

The perfect tour takes in the highlights of Japan; visiting modern cities and those still guided by ancient traditions, relaxing in hot springs and eating good food. This is a self-guided suggested itinerary making use of the efficient Japanese railway system to get between destinations. There is plenty of free time for your family to choose from the many unique experiences available.

CITY EXPLORATION IN TOYKO Arrive in Japan’s capital to a modern, cosmopolitan city. Visit the fashionable technology and animation district, watch the sumo wrestlers and try your hand at samurai sword fighting. INTO THE COUNTRYSIDE Take the train to Hakone and stay in a traditional Japanese ryokan. Ride a cable car to Owakudani, passing over hot springs and rivers. TEMPLES, GEISHA & SUSHI Take the bullet train to Kyoto, Japan’s cultural capital, and visit the Golden Pavillion. Travel to Osaka where you and your family can sample local foods. We recommend 11 days for this itinerary giving a great introduction to Japan. Please contact us to discuss a tailor-made holiday for your family.

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JAPAN

places to see in Japan Here are some of our favourite places to visit in Japan. Call us to discuss your options when planning a tailor-made trip for your family.

TIMELESS KYOTO

Serene Hakone

FOOD TOUR IN OSAKA

Visit the beautiful Golden Pavillion, relax in tranquil, zen gardens and take a stroll through giant bamboo groves in Kyoto, the cultural capital of Japan.

Hakone town is the gateway to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. This small mountain town is a popular city escape, famous for its natural beauty and spectacular views of Mount Fuji.

Osaka is known for its flamboyance, fun-loving people and amazing food. Wander around Dotonbori, the famous foodie mecca where you can sample takoyaki (octopus balls).

EMBRACE THE CULTURE IN TOKYO Tokyo is a cutting-edge city where hidden temples, vibrant markets and peaceful gardens are found tucked away amid the towering skyscrapers, anime art and gaming areas. Dress up in a traditional kimono and wander around Tokyo’s Old Town.

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Southeast Asia Myanmar (page 82) - Thailand (page 84) - Vietnam (page 87) Malaysia (page 90) - Borneo (page 91)

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Responsible wildlife encounters We are big supporters of activities that put families closer to nature, improve understanding of the world around us and get children excited about sustainability. Getting up close to animals such as elephants, big cats, monkeys, whales and dolphins is exciting, but unfortunately there are ways of doing so that have increasingly put these animals’ lives and well-being at risk. Wild animals are just that - wild. Elephants, big cats and primates have never been domesticated in the same way as horses or dogs so, even when they may appear tame, a great deal of the ‘wild’ remains in their being. At Families Worldwide we believe all wildlife should be treated with dignity and respect, which is why we choose some animal activities over others. On trips with Families Worldwide you’ll still get the chance to meet elephants, track tigers in their natural habitat and see dolphins jump alongside the wake of your boat. However, we don’t

include tiger temples or elephant trekking centres. Since Families Worldwide began, we’ve seen a greater recognition of the needs and rights of captive animals, but the number of animals being used for entertainment in the tourism industry has still increased. We’ve often found these activities can be as traumatic for the families taking part as the poor animal being exploited. That’s why we made the decision to promote only positive experiences for both our families and the animals they encounter. That means no elephant riding, but instead you can visit a nature park where they rescue and rehabilitate elephants, and you can watch feeding and bathing time and learn all about these amazing animals. We’ll take you to the best places to spot leopards

in Sri Lanka and tigers in India. The anticipation makes a sighting much more exciting than seeing one at a zoo. You can visit local centres we support that provide vital research into species, such as the Panda Breeding Research Base in Chengdu and Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. We’re proud to always promote sustainable, ethical photographic safaris in national parks as the best way to see wild animals. If this option is not possible, we are happy to promote vetted establishments where you can meet and observe well treated, captive animals from the ground.

look out

Keep an eye out for the ‘Wildlife Encounters’ icon.

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MYANMAR

Myanmar discovery For culture loving intrepid families duration 11 days

age guide 8 to 18

did you know?

Up until 1989, Myanmar was called Burma.

The whole family will be intrigued by magical Myanmar. Explore and discover it together on this fascinating family activity holiday off the main tourist trail. Myanmar is a beautiful and culturally rich country and with its gates recently opened up to tourism, now is the time to visit this fast-emerging destination. Travel back in time and experience Myanmar’s ancient treasures, golden temples, bustling markets and meet the inviting locals. Along the way, you can enjoy magnificent landscapes untouched by mass tourism as you travel on foot, by bike and on a traditional horse and cart.

itinerary

WITH POOL

trip highlights

1/2

Fly from the UK to Yangon.

¬ Explore Bagan temples by bike

3

Visit the pottery making village.

¬ Sunset cruise on the Irrawaddy River

4

Fly to Bagan & explore temples.

¬ Meet the local people

5

Climb Mount Popa.

6

Cycle tour of Bagan’s temples.

7

Fly to Heho & drive to Inle Lake.

8

Boat trip to Indein Pagoda.

9

Fly to Yangon. Shwedagon Pagoda.

10/11

Overnight flight to the UK. See website for details of a half term itinerary.

¬ Climb the 1,518m volcano - Mount Popa ¬ Craft your own clay souvenir

about the trip Where will we stay? Hotel x 8 What meals are included? Breakfasts x 8, lunches x 6, dinner x 1 How do we travel? Plane, minibus, boat, horse & cart, bike & on foot Trip code: FBBD

¬ Spend time at the tranquil Inle Lake

Traveller Rating Bagan Temples & cycling

Mt Popa Walking

4.7 out of 5

He ho Markets Inle Lake Indein Pagoda

MYANMAR

why this trip? “The highlight was climbing a temple in Bagan at sunset and seeing temples as far as the eye could see.” The Pitt family

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When can we go? FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

THAILAND

Yangon Twante Pottery village

From/ To UK

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £1,599 | Child: £1,499 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £2,444 | Child: £2,164


MYANMAR

extensions in Myanmar Why not make the most of your time together with an extra few days in Myanmar?

Ngapoli Beach extension

Mandalay extension

A few days at a charming fishing village

The cultural and religious heart of Myanmar

Spend time swimming and snorkelling in the clear blue waters of the Bay of Bengal. Dine on fresh seafood while watching fascinating local life pass by.

Not only the birthplace of many favourite culinary dishes, Mandalay is famous for its skilled craftsmen, theatre arts and countless monasteries hidden in the back streets.

Please contact us for prices.

Please contact us for prices.

Tailor-made myanmar This family holiday takes in some of the highlights of this fascinating country. See the shimmering temples of Mandalay and Yangon and the spectacular ruins at Bagan. Climb Mount Popa for breathtaking views and see leg-rowing fishermen and picturesque villages as you take a boat cruise on Inle Lake.

Ancient capitals & river cruise Visit some of the majestic monasteries and pagodas of Mandalay. Explore the ancient capitals in the area and enjoy a sightseeing cruise along the Irrawaddy River. Inle Lake & Bagan Explore Inle Lake by boat. Fly to Bagan, home to the highest density of Buddhist temples and ruins in the world. Spend a full day exploring the area by bicycle. Mount Popa & Yangon Walk up the mountain for spectacular views. Fly to Yangon and spend a full day exploring the city, ending your trip with a visit to the magnificent Shwedagon Pagoda. We recommend 13 days for this itinerary giving a great introduction to Myanmar. Please contact us to discuss a tailor-made holiday for your family.

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THAILAND

Rainforests & islands A tropical adventure for beach loving families age guide 8 to 18

duration 10 days

Thailand is a pleasure that all the family will enjoy. Renowned for exotic beaches, friendly people, delicious food and vibrant culture, it’s no wonder so many visitors return. This itinerary will suit first-time adventurers and experienced explorers alike. You’ll explore buzzing Bangkok before an exciting journey on an overnight train to the south. Stay among the chirping wildlife of the rainforest in a traditional lodge. Venture to tropical islands where just beyond the pure white sand beaches you can snorkel in clear, warm waters to see thousands of iridescent fish and brightly coloured coral.

itinerary

WITH POOL

trip highlights

1/2

Overnight flight to Bangkok.

¬ Ride in a tuk-tuk

3

City tour & train to Surat Thani.

¬ Discover colourful temples

4/5

Khao Sok National Park; rainforest, boating & hiking.

¬ Experience an overnight train

nOVEMBER TO APRIL 6

Boat safari. Drive to Trang.

7

Islands boat trip with snorkelling.

8

Free time on the beach.

9/10

Overnight flight to UK via Bangkok.

Where will we stay? Hotel x 4, lodge x 2, train x 1 What meals are included? Breakfasts x 6, lunches x 3, dinners x 2

¬ Explore a tropical rainforest

How do we travel? Minibus, tuk-tuk, train, boat & on foot

¬ Play on fantastic beaches ¬ Snorkel with thousands of fish

Trip code: FTRI Traveller Rating

From/ To UK

CAMBODIA

THAILAND

When can we go? MYANMAR

Boat safari. Ferry to Koh Samui.

7

Free time on the beach.

8

Kayaking in Ang Thong Marine Park.

9/10

Overnight flight to UK via Bangkok.

4.4 out of 5

Bangkok

MAY TO OCTOBER 6

about the trip

To Bangkok

Christmas Holidays, February Half Term & Easter Holidays Summer Holidays

Surat Thani Khao Sok NP

Koh Samui Beach & kayaking

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £889 | Child: £829

To Bangkok

Trang Boat trip, snorkelling & beach

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Flight Inclusive from Adult: £1,564 | Child: £1,367


THAILAND

timeless thailand

For families wanting an authentic experience in northern Thailand age guide 7 to 18

duration 13 days

The hustle and bustle of Bangkok is an exciting place to begin your Thai adventure - but the jungle and a floating hotel awaits. From the moment you arrive at your rainforest hotel the children can enjoy swimming in the river and exploring the jungle. After a visit to the famous bridge on the River Kwai, you’ll fly to Chiang Rai for Southeast Asia’s fabled Golden Triangle. Head to a hill tribe village where you are welcomed by the local people, before sharing a traditional dinner and stories around the campfire. Trek to a waterfall before driving to your last port of call; Chiang Mai.

itinerary

trip highlights

WITH POOL

1/2

Overnight flight to Bangkok.

¬ Stay in a floating hotel

3

Explore by tuk-tuk, boat & on foot.

¬ Swim in the picturesque Erawan waterfalls

4

Kanchanaburi - river boat cruise.

¬ Spend time with a local tribe

5

Waterfalls at Erawan National Park.

6

Visit River Kwai, fly to Chiang Rai.

7

Discover the Golden Triangle.

8

Spend time at a rural village.

9

Visit local tribes. To Chiang Mai.

10

Cooking class, free afternoon.

11

Wat Phra temple & night market.

12/13

Overnight flight to UK via Bangkok.

why this trip? “Our favourite parts were the White Temple in Chiang Rai, Bangkok and the cookery class.” The Blakey family

about the trip Where will we stay? Hotel x 7, floating hotel x 2, lodge x 1 What meals are included? Breakfasts x 10, lunches x 5, dinners x 4

¬ Visit the Golden Triangle

How do we travel? Minibus, boat, plane, tuk-tuk & on foot

¬ Cook your own Thai meal

Trip code: FTTT

¬ Experience a night market in Chiang Mai

Traveller Rating

Chiang Rai Villages

4.5 out of 5 LAOS

Chiang Mai Cooking

When can we go?

MYANMAR

THAILAND

Erawan NP Waterfalls Kanchanaburi Floating hotel

From/ To UK

Bangkok

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £1,059 | Child: £999 CAMBODIA

Flight Inclusive from Adult: £1,689 | Child: £1,534

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THAILAND

thailand IN STYLE

A classic Thailand family trip staying in comfortable accommodation duration 14 days

new

age guide 5 to 18

DID YOU KNOW?

Thai markets are home to the King of Fruits, the durian - also known as the smelliest fruit in the world.

This active family holiday is a great introduction to the country, following a classic route but still discovering the hidden gems. Along the way, stay in comfortable family friendly 4* hotels with swimming pool and spa facilities. Begin your tour in Bangkok where you explore the lesser-known parts of the city by bicycle and longtail boat, observing local communities, markets and unique Thai street life. In Khao Yai, spend the day exploring on foot searching for wildlife. Continue to Chiang Mai, the cultural capital of Thailand, and then finish the tour at a quiet beach resort on the beautiful island of Phuket.

itinerary

WITH POOL

trip highlights

1

Overnight flight to Bangkok.

¬ Explore the canals of Bangkok

2

Afternoon longtail boat tour.

¬ Search for wild elephants in Khao Yai

3

Explore Bangkok by bicycle.

¬ Create your own model elephant

4

Optional cultural treasure hunt.

5

Khao Yai National Park.

6

Full day hiking & wildlife watching.

7

Fly to Chiang Mai.

8

Paint model elephants.

9

Fly to Phuket.

10

Cookery lesson & island visit.

11

Phuket walking tour & photo hunt.

12

Free time in Phuket.

13/14

Fly back to UK via Bangkok.

¬ Learn to cook Thai food

about the trip Where will we stay? Hotel x 11 What meals are included? Breakfasts x 11, lunches x 2, dinner x 1 How do we travel? Minibus, plane, boat, bicycle & on foot

¬ Visit a paradise island ¬ Stay in beautiful, comfortable hotels

Trip code: FTST Traveller Rating This is a brand new adventure.

Chiang Mai

LAOS

MYANMAR

THAILAND From/ To UK

Khao Yai NP Wildlife Bangkok CAMBODIA

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £1,999 | Child: £1,899

Phuket Walking, cooking & beach MALAYSIA

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When can we go? FEBRUARY HALF TERM

Flight Inclusive from Adult: £2,624 | Child: £2,439


VIETNAM

hanoi to saigon Perfect for culture loving families age guide 5 to 18

duration 12 days

Journey from north to south on this ultimate family adventure through vibrant Vietnam. Travel like the locals do as you discover the jewel of Southeast Asia. Explore Hanoi by cyclo, unwind as you cruise on a traditional junk through the network of islands and peaks in Halong Bay and watch fishermen go about their day. An overnight train journey on the famous Reunification Express takes you to the old imperial capital of Hue on the Perfume River. Visit the ancient trading town of Hoi An and enjoy white sand beaches. Cruise gently along the Mekong Delta with its floating markets and have a go at catching fish with the locals.

itinerary

WITH POOL

trip highlights

1/2

Overnight flight to Hanoi.

¬ Cruise on a traditional junk

3

Cyclo ride & puppet show.

¬ Sleep overnight on a train

4

Halong Bay cruise on a junk.

¬ Paddle in a bamboo basket

5

To Hanoi. Overnight train to Hue.

6

Dragon boat on Perfume River.

7

Scenic drive to Hoi An.

8

Village visits by bicycle & boat.

9

Mekong Delta by boat.

11/12

Cu Chi Tunnels & fly back to UK.

Where will we stay? Hotel x 7, train x 1, boat x 1 What meals are included? Breakfasts x 9, lunches x 4, dinners x 2

¬ Cycle through rice paddies

How do we travel? Boat, junk, minibus, train, plane, cyclo & bike

¬ Try fishing Vietnamese-style

Trip code: FVHS

¬ Explore a floating village

Traveller Rating

From UK

Fly to Saigon. City tour.

10

CHINA

4.4 out of 5

VIETNAM Hanoi LAOS

Halong Bay Cruise

When can we go?

See page 89 for extension options.

why this trip? “Well-designed trip for the 10 year old as well as the 47 year old. We will remember for a lifetime.” The Lindsey family

about the trip

Hue Imperial capital THAILAND

Hoi An Old trading town

CAMBODIA

To UK

Mekong Delta Boat trip

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) Cu Chi tunnels

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £1,129 | Child: £1,029 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £1,674 | Child: £1,474

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VIETNAM

vietnam aDVENTURE Hike, bike and raft your way through Vietnam age guide 8 to 18

duration 12 days

Active families will love exploring scenic waterways, rural villages and lush green countryside; welcome to Vietnam. Explore Hanoi and learn about the country’s compelling recent history, bringing a new element to your children’s education. At Mai Chau, experience village life and stay in a communal longhouse (simple dormitory style accommodation) for a night. Visit the oldest national park in Vietnam, Cuc Phuong, before arriving in Ninh Binh. Explore by bike visiting temples and caves. Cruise through Halong Bay on a traditional junk before an overnight train to the old port of Hoi An.

itinerary

trip highlights

WITH POOL

1/2

Overnight flight to Hanoi.

¬ Stay in a longhouse homestay

3

War history, bikes & puppets.

¬ Learn about Vietnam’s war history

4

Hill tribes, cycle & longhouse stay.

¬ Cycle through local villages

5

Visit Cuc Phuong National Park.

6

Hoa Lu temples, caves & boating.

7

Halong Bay Junk cruise.

8

Overnight train to Hoi An.

9

Walking tour of Old Town.

10

¬ Cruise Halong Bay: a James Bond film set

How do we travel? Train, minibus, bicycle, boat & on foot Trip code: FVVV

¬ Sleep on an overnight train

Traveller Rating VIETNAM Mai Chau Homestay

Overnight flight to UK. LAOS

From/ To UK

4.7 out of 5

CHINA

Hanoi Halong Bay Cruise Ninh Binh Temples

why this trip? “The kids loved learning about Vietnamese war history and adored the cooking class - yum!” The McCrae family

Where will we stay? Hotel x 6, homestay x 1, boat x 1, train x 1 What meals are included? Breakfasts x 8, lunches x 6, dinners x 2

¬ Explore caves and grottos

Cooking class & cycle ride.

11/12

about the trip

To Hanoi

THAILAND

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Hoi An Beach

When can we go? FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £989 | Child: £879 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £1,729 | Child: £1,439


VIETNAM

extension options Why not make the most of your time together with an extra few days in Vietnam or Cambodia?

Angkor Wat, CAMBODIA Explore the temples, lakes and villages of Siem Reap. Complete your family holiday with a few days in Cambodia. See the sunset over the phenomenal Angkor Wat, explore the Ta Phrom temple from Tomb Raider, visit a nearby village or take a boat ride on Tonle Sap Lake. Please contact us for prices.

Tropical Island of Phu Quoc Hills, forests and white sandy beaches. After exploring the wonders of Vietnam from north to south, this undiscovered gem is the perfect way to finish your family holiday. Relax in a boutique hotel set in tropical gardens perfectly located on an unspoilt paradise island. Please contact us for prices.

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MALAYSIA

adventure malaysia

A great family-friendly itinerary for cultural enthusiasts and wildlife lovers age guide 7 to 18

duration 13 days

how to say...

To greet someone in the morning in Malaysia, you say selamat pagi.

Travel from the soaring skyscrapers of Kuala Lumpur into the mountainous, dense jungle of the highlands and on to the beach of Penang. This is an exciting cultural journey across a breathtaking country. Spend time exploring temples such as Cheng Hoon Teng in Malacca and the Batu Cave shrines. Watch fireflies fill the night sky while eating dinner on a boat in Kuala Selangor Wetland Reserve and go wildlife spotting on a night trek in Taman Negara rainforest - look out for tapirs and wild boars. Then, walk through the jungle treetops on the world’s longest canopy walkway.

itinerary 1/2

trip highlights

WITH POOL

Overnight flight to Kuala Lumpur. Travel to hotel in Malacca.

¬ Watch fireflies light up the night sky ¬ Explore limestone caves

3

Temples & boat cruise.

4

Explore Putrajaya. To Kuala Lumpur.

5

Kuala Selangor firefly tour.

6

To Taman Negara via Batu Caves.

¬ See the world’s tallest Lord Murugan statue

7

Jungle treks & wildlife boat trip.

¬ Relax on the beach in Penang

8

To the Cameron Highlands.

9

Tea plantations, butterflies & cacti.

10

Penang via caves & spice gardens.

11

Free day to explore Penang.

12/13

¬ Relax on a boat cruise through Malacca ¬ Learn how tea is produced

about the trip Where will we stay? Hotel x 11 What meals are included? Breakfasts x 10, lunch x 1, dinners x 4 How do we travel? Minibus, boat & on foot Trip code: FMAL Traveller Rating

Penang Beach

5.0 out of 5 Cameron Highlands Tea plantations Taman Negara Jungle trekking

Overnight flight to the UK.

See page 92 for extension options. MALAYSIA

why this trip?

“Great mix of culture, food and relaxation.”

The James family

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From/ To UK

Kuala Lumpur

Malacca River boat cruise & temples

When can we go? FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £1,199 | Child: £1,099 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £1,939 | Child: £1,689


BORNEO

planet of the apes The ultimate adventure holiday for nature lovers age guide 7 to 18

duration 13 days

Borneo is the third largest island in the world, divided between three countries and home to one of the oldest rainforests on Earth. Perfect for a family adventure. Begin your holiday in Kota Kinabalu where you will be immersed in local culture. Explore the Kinabalu National Park and take a private boat trip to a tropical marine park - great for a spot of snorkelling. Experience close encounters with the orangutans at Sepilok and head into the rainforest to watch wildlife on a river cruise. Stay in a comfortable beachside resort in Kota Kinabalu and an authentic lodge with air conditioning and en suite bathrooms while in the rainforest.

itinerary

trip highlights

WITH POOL

about the trip

1/2

Overnight flight to Kota Kinabalu.

¬ Visit the orangutans of Sepilok

3

Visit the Mari Mari village.

¬ Find Nemo and Dory on a snorkelling trip

4

Optional rafting in the Kiulu Valley.

¬ Zip-wire between two islands

5

Markets, hot springs & waterfalls.

6

Boat trip to snorkel & zip-wire.

7

Fly to Sandakan. Free afternoon.

8

Sepilok - orangutans & hiking.

9

Wildlife river cruise & caves.

10

Proboscis monkeys. To Kota Kinabalu.

11

Free day at the beach.

12/13

Overnight flight to UK.

See page 92 for extension options.

why this trip? “It’s a fantastic up-close nature holiday for all the family.” The Canter family

Where will we stay? Hotel x 8, lodge x 2 What meals are included? Breakfasts x 10, lunches x 6, dinners x 2

¬ Spend time with a local tribe

How do we travel? Minibus, plane, boat, raft & on foot

¬ Canoy walk in the treetops ¬ Relax in the Poring Hot Springs

Trip code: FBPA Traveller Rating

4.0 out of 5 When can we go? Kiulu Valley Rafting

Kinabalu Park Hiking & hot springs

Sandakan

BORNEO From/ To UK

Kota Kinabalu

Sepilok Orangutan

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EASTER HOLIDAYS

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

how much does it cost? Land Only from Adult: £1,299 | Child: £1,199 Flight Inclusive from Adult: £2,099 | Child: £1,849

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MALAYSIA & BORNEO

extensions in malaysia & borneo Why not make the most of your time together with an extra few days in Malaysia and Borneo?

Terengganu EXTENSION Enjoy traditional Malay service & hospitality Stay in a tranquil sanctuary inspired by 17th century palaces. Dine on traditional cuisine, cycle along the winding roads or take a cultural boat cruise. Please contact us for prices.

tropical langkawi EXTENSION Wild jungle and white-sand beaches Why not spend a few days at the beach with turquoise water and surrounding rainforest? Relax, enjoy watersports, go snorkelling or walk the Sky Bridge for 360 degree views. Please contact us for prices.

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MALAYSIA & BORNEO

Tailor-made malaysia & borneo Here are three of our favourite places to see in Malaysia and Borneo. Call us to discuss your options when planning a tailor-made family trip.

Mount Kinabalu

Sepilok

Bako National Park

Kinabalu is the highest peak in Southeast Asia. It is a very popular trek for families with adventurous teenagers. The challenging but straightforward climb takes just two days.

Sepilok is home to an orangutan rehabilitation centre that cares for orphaned orangutans, eventually releasing them back into the wild. See these primates in their natural habitat.

This small peninsula of rocky coastline, jungle-covered hilltops and secluded beaches contains a remarkable diversity of animal and plant life. You’ll find many proboscis monkeys here.

our suggested itinerary The combination of wildlife, tribal culture and time to relax on the beach makes this a fantastic trip for families. On this holiday you’ll have the chance to see orangutans and monkeys, as well as flying squirrels and hundreds of bird species. Sail into the jungle and stay in a (former) headhunter’s longhouse. End your trip by relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Langkawi, surrounded by rainforests and mangroves.

Arrive in Kuching Take a tour of Sarawak’s historic capital, the riverside city of Kuching. See orangutans in Semenggoh Nature Reserve and spot proboscis monkeys in Bako National Park. Visit a traditional Iban longhouse Drive past paddy fields and rubber plantations before embarking on a longtail boat ride to your longhouse for the night. Enjoy traditional food, music and dancing. RELAX IN LANGKAWI Fly to Langkawi and stay at a beach hotel. Explore tropical rainforest in search of macaques. Visit mangrove forests, secluded lagoons and caves. We recommend 12 days for this itinerary giving a great introduction to Malaysia and Borneo. Please contact us to discuss a tailor-made holiday for your family.

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93


Ask Columbus Our resident chameleon is a very knowledgeable lizard, as you may have noticed from his helpful tips and facts throughout the brochure. Here, he answers some of our travellers’ frequently asked questions.

94

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What will my group be like?

Will I have free time to relax with my family?

Every departure is different, but on a full trip you can expect to travel with two to four other families. You can ask when you book about the current confirmed bookings and we will be happy to give you an idea of the size and ages of other families booked. Occasionally, it may be just your family on a tour so you’ll be getting a private experience at no extra cost.

All our trips are designed to allow some free time so you can go off on your own as a family. You might want to try some extra activities or just relax and have fun together - it’s up to you. Many of our itineraries allow for extensions where you can stay a little longer after your tour to take advantage of a beach or city stay. Ask your travel specialist when you book for more information.

When is the best time to travel? It depends on the holiday and the destination – the winter activity trips aren’t that popular in August! Our trips mainly run during the school holidays - they are designed for families after all. There is so much more to consider than just the weather so tell us what’s important to you and we’ll advise you on when it’s best to travel.

Is every trip guaranteed to run? We need a minimum number of participants to run our tours. We will always try to run every scheduled departure even if only one family is booked, however this may not always be possible. If we have to cancel your trip due to lack of numbers we will offer you an alternative or a refund will be given.

Can I request a specific room type? We can arrange family, twin, double or triple rooms on most of our tours. If you have a preference please let us know at the time of booking and we’ll do our best to arrange this. We can also arrange interconnecting or adjacent rooms if requested.

What does ‘age guide’ mean on each trip page? Every trip we run has been assessed to give a guideline age we think the trip is most suitable for, however this can be flexible and depends on the nature of the rest of your family and the other families already booked. We have trips planned specifically for younger children and for families with teens, but we appreciate there can often be a wide age difference within families. Please speak to one of our specialists if you have any concerns, they will be happy to discuss the itinerary in more depth with you.

Where can I get more information about a SPECIFIC trip? Every trip has trip notes which can be downloaded from the trip’s page on our website. Here you’ll find a day-by-day itinerary and lots of interesting background information on each trip and destination.

at what age do i need to pay the adult price for my child? If your children are aged 12 and above, you will need to pay adult prices. This is because airlines charge full adult fares for children of this age.

Will we have a pool? Wherever possible we use hotels with swimming pools, but in some areas this is not possible. There may be, however, the opportunity to swim in the sea, river or even a lake. Look out for this symbol for WITH swimming opportunities: POOL

How safe are these trips for families? All our holidays are planned with the safety and security of your family in mind. We work closely with our in-country partners before and during your trip and always follow Foreign Office advice regarding travel to a region. In the modern world there are sadly risks associated with day to day life in most countries, but we will always do everything we can to ensure you have a safe and relaxing holiday.

Do we need visas? That depends not only on where you are travelling to, but also on your own nationality. You can check current visa requirements online. Most are fairly straightforward to apply for, but if you need some extra help you can contact our friends at the Visa Machine (www.thevisamachine.com).

Will my family need vaccinations? Again, that depends on where you are travelling. We recommend you speak to your GP or travel clinic prior to departure as they will have the most up to date information.

Do I need to arrange travel insurance? Travel insurance is compulsory on all our holidays. As deposits are non-refundable, we recommend you take out cover from the time of booking in case you need to cancel. We can give you a competitive quote for insurance or you are welcome to source your own provider.

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Travelling Responsibly How can your family holiday make a difference? We’ve put together some top tips. Booking with a company like us is a great start. We operate all our trips so that every tour supports local economies, creates employment and contributes to in-country conservation efforts, but there are also small steps you can take on your holiday to help.

Minimise your waste

Respect the wildlife Wild animals are just that, wild. Don’t get too close to a wild animal in pursuit of a great photograph as it can be dangerous for both you and the animal.

Party like the locals Getting involved with local festivities and celebrations, from Holi festival in India to celebrating radishes in Mexico, is a fantastic insight to local culture and supports local businesses taking part.

Waste management can be an issue in developing countries so say no to a plastic bag and carry a reusable water bottle to cut down on the amount of waste you produce and others have to dispose of.

Stay local

animal welfare

Choosing smaller, locally run businesses to eat and sleep gives you a more authentic experience and contributes directly to the local economy.

Before taking part in a wildlife encounter, take a moment to think about the animal welfare implications. We only promote and recommend responsible wildlife encounters. You can read more about our policy on page 81.

Shop local

Travel overland

Buy souvenirs at local markets to practice your language skills rather than mass-produced trinkets probably made in another country entirely. Keep a good sense of perspective when bartering.

Where possible, travel overland rather than flying - not only do you get to see much more of a country but you’ll also dramatically reduce your carbon footprint. Using local transport like trains helps too.

snap responsibly Observe local customs It’s important to stick to local standards of dress and behaviour while travelling. You will find that you and your children will interact with local people much more easily.

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Ask before taking a photo of someone as not everyone wants to be photographed or may ask for money for your snap.

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Don’t feed the habit It’s so difficult to walk away and say no to beggars, but giving money in this way often perpetuates the problem. Speak with your guide, a village chief or elder about how best to contribute to the community you’re visiting.


flight information Book a Flight Inclusive holiday for total confidence and financial peace of mind. Our travel specialists are very experienced in dealing with the complexities of airline fares and ticket types and will simplify this process for you. It’ll save you time, stress and money! We have competitive fares with all major airlines.

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE Unless stated otherwise, the Flight Inclusive price shown on each trip page includes return flights from the UK, either direct or via the airline’s hub. Itineraries are normally based on scheduled flights, economy class seats and tour operator contract fares. From time to time airlines change their prices so a supplement may be payable. We will search for the best airline, routes, fares for your holiday.

LAND ONLY BOOKINGS If you would prefer to make your own international travel arrangements you can book any of our holidays on a ‘Land Only’ basis and organise your own flights. This may sometimes appear to be cheaper than booking a ‘Flight Inclusive’ package. Please bear in mind that if you book ‘Land Only’ it is your responsibility to ensure you arrive at the joining point of the trip in good time. No refund can be provided in respect of any unused services if you miss the start of the trip. Similarly, our contractual obligations to you cease at the end of the Land Only itinerary. In the rare event that you are unable to join your holiday you would not be entitled to a refund. If you decide to make your own alternative flight arrangements, we recommend that you do not purchase non-flexible connecting flight / rail / bus tickets for group trips, as these can incur penalty charges or even total loss in the event of a change or cancellation.

REGIONAL AIRPORTS

LOW COST AIRLINES

On many of our trips, we are able to offer departures from airports throughout the UK direct to an overseas hub, rather than having to go via London.

Low cost airlines appear to offer a very economical option. We are able to book and arrange these flights for you, subject to a nominal booking fee and, by doing this as part of your travel arrangements, we can continue to offer you peace of mind and financial protection through our ATOL licence.

If this is not possible then we can usually arrange domestic departures from most UK regional airports to connect with international scheduled flights. These are competitively priced and are generally booked in conjunction with the airline supplying your international flights. Due to the likelihood of changes in flight schedules, Families Worldwide will not book domestic flights that are non-refundable or non-transferable. All the flights used in our pricing are based on economy class. Please note that flight prices and terms and conditions can vary significantly. Our travel specialists will advise on the best ways of securing guaranteed prices.

airport transfers Airport transfers are not included in the trip prices. We will provide a quote for transfers at the time of booking. This is because families on the tour often arrive and depart on different flights.

flight upgrades If you would like to travel in a little more style, we can arrange flight upgrades or airport lounges to make your journey more comfortable. Please ask at the time of booking.

This brings many benefits. For example, if your flight were to be delayed or cancelled and you could not join your holiday on time, we would manage the situation accordingly.

FLIGHT DELAYS Please be aware that delays prior to your departure from the UK, en route to the starting point of your land arrangements, or on your return journey may occur. This may be a result of one of many factors – inclement weather conditions; technical problems with aircraft; air traffic control problems; airline or airport staff strike action; last minute schedule changes; security issues or airline overbooking problems, to name but a few! Each carrier has a different policy as to how these situations are dealt with, depending on the severity of the delay. Most provide meal and/or drinks vouchers, or even accommodation if the delay is substantial. Families Worldwide has no control over flight delays, the provision of vouchers or accommodation. Standard airline policy applies in all cases.

fuel surcharges

FIND OUT MORE

Due to oil price fluctuations, airlines sometimes introduce fuel surcharges. Families Worldwide reserves the right to pass on any additional costs to new and existing bookings prior to departure.

If you have any questions or would like to find out any more information, please call one of the team on 01962 737 560.

Speak to a travel specialist 01962 737 560

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Booking Information & Conditions Please note all bookings are subject to our full Booking Conditions which appear on our website www.familiesworldwide.co.uk. A copy of these can also be e-mailed or posted to you on request. By asking us to make your booking, you confirm you have had access to and agree to the full Booking Conditions which you should read. The Booking Conditions provide for the payment of cancellation charges if you cancel or fail to make payment when due. They also include limitations and exclusions of our liability to you. For international travel by air, sea or rail, our liabilities are limited and excluded as if we were a carrier within the applicable international convention or EU regulation (for example, the Montreal Convention, the EC Regulation on Air Carrier Liability and the Athens Convention). A surcharge may be payable in limited circumstances where certain costs increase after booking.

Booking Information This Booking Information forms part of your contract with Chameleon Worldwide Travel Ltd which trades as Adventure Worldwide, Chameleon Tailor Made, Chameleon Travel, Families Worldwide and Walks Worldwide. Please see our Booking Conditions for definitions of words used. 1. Making your booking To confirm a booking you must provide us with the names and dates of birth of all passengers on your booking and the address and contact details of the lead passenger. You can provide this information either over the phone, in writing or via our online booking form. Names must be as they appear on your passport. All bookings are subject to our Booking Conditions. The lead passenger must be authorised by all participants or their parent or guardian where the participant is under 18, to make a booking with us on the basis of our Booking Conditions. By asking us to proceed with a booking, the lead passenger confirms that he / she and all participants have had the opportunity to read and have read the Booking Information and the Booking Conditions and agree to them. The lead passenger is responsible for making all payments due to us as set out in more detail in clause 2 below. The lead passenger must be at least 24 years old when the booking is made. Once we have received the information we need to make the booking and all appropriate payments, we will, subject to availability, confirm your booking by issuing a confirmation invoice. This invoice will be sent to you or your travel agent. Please check your invoice carefully as soon as you receive it. Contact us immediately if any information which appears on the confirmation or any other document appears to be incorrect or incomplete as it may not be possible to make changes later. We regret we cannot accept any liability if we are not notified of any inaccuracy (for which we are responsible) in any document within 14 days of our sending it out (5 days for tickets). We will do our best to rectify any mistake notified to us outside these time limits but you must meet any costs involved in doing so. The only exception to this requirement to meet costs is where the mistake in question was made by us and there is good reason why you did not tell us about it within these time limits. 2. Payment The applicable deposit (as set out in Table A below) per person must be paid at the time of booking. If you wish to purchase the insurance policy we offer, all applicable premiums must also be paid at the time of booking. Please see clause 4 below on the subject of insurance. The final balance of the price is due no later than the date set out in Table A below. If a booking is made after this date then the full amount is payable at the time of booking. Table A - On Booking £200 per person or 15% of the holiday cost as a deposit (whichever is the greater). For some holidays we may request a higher deposit to cover non refundable elements of the holiday payable by us to our suppliers on booking or prior to balance due date.

60 days before departure* Balance of the total holiday cost.

3. Special Requests and medical problems / disabilities If you have a special request, you should inform us of it in writing at the time of booking. We will advise the relevant supplier of your requirements, but we cannot guarantee that such requests will be met unless we

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have specifically confirmed this. For your own protection, you should obtain confirmation in writing from us that your request will be complied with (where it is possible for us to give this) if your request is important to you. Confirmation that a special request has been noted or passed on to the supplier or the inclusion of the special request on your confirmation invoice or any other documentation is not confirmation that the request will be met. Unless and until specifically confirmed, all special requests are subject to availability. We regret we cannot accept any conditional bookings, i.e. any booking which is specified to be conditional on the fulfilment of a particular request. All such bookings will be treated as “standard” bookings subject to the above provisions on special requests. If any participant has any medical problem or disability which may affect your holiday, you must tell us before the lead passenger confirms your booking so that we can advise as to the suitability of the chosen arrangements. In any event, you must give us full details in writing at the time of booking. You must also notify us of any change or deterioration in the disability or medical condition or development of any disability or medical condition after booking. In view of the nature of the holidays featured in this brochure and on our website, we regret we must reserve the right to decline any booking or cancel (in the event of the development, deterioration or change of any disability or medical condition occurring after confirmation) whenever we reasonably feel unable to accommodate the needs or restrictions of any particular client or where, in our reasonable opinion, the medical condition or disability of the client concerned is likely to have a significant adverse effect on other clients taking the same holiday. We further reserve the right to cancel any holiday and impose cancellation charges if we are not fully advised of any relevant disability or medical condition at the time the booking is made and/or promptly notified of any development, change or deterioration occurring after booking. On occasion, the decision for us to cancel may be made at the time the person concerned joins the tour as it may only be apparent at this stage that their disability or medical condition cannot be accommodated. Any client affected by a disability or medical condition must ensure they have notified this to their travel insurers and that their travel insurance will cover it. As it is a condition of booking that all clients have adequate and appropriate travel insurance, we are entitled to insist on evidence that the disability or medical condition is covered. 4. Insurance The lead passenger is responsible for ensuring all participants have adequate and appropriate insurance. The insurance must as a minimum cover personal accident, medical expenses, loss of effects, repatriation costs and all other expenses, which might arise as a result of loss, damage, injury, delay or inconvenience. This policy must include a minimum cover of £5,000,000 for medical and repatriation expenses. Policy details should be read carefully and taken on holiday with you. It is your responsibility to ensure that the insurance cover you purchase is suitable and adequate for your particular needs. Details of the policy we offer are shown in this brochure and on our website. 5. Passports, visas, permits, certificates and health All participants must be in possession of a valid passport and all visas, permits and certificates, including medical certificates required for the whole of the holiday booked. It is your responsibility to obtain these unless you are expressly advised otherwise by us. All information and advice given by us on visas, vaccinations, climate, clothing, baggage, special equipment etc. is given in good faith. The lead passenger must ensure that all participants are in possession of all necessary travel and health documents before departure. All costs incurred in obtaining such documentation must be paid by you. We regret we cannot accept any liability if you are refused entry onto any transport or into any country due to failure on your part to carry correct documentation. If you are not a British citizen or hold a non British passport, you must check passport and visa requirements with the embassy or consulate of the country(ies) to or through which you are intending to travel. If failure to have any necessary travel or other documents results in fines, surcharges or other financial penalty being imposed on us or costs incurred by us, you will be responsible for reimbursing us accordingly. We require details of the passports held by all participants no later than 60 days prior to departure. In some cases we may require your passport at time of booking A full British passport usually presently takes approximately 2 to 4 weeks

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to obtain unless you are 16 or over and are applying for a first passport. The UK Passport Service has to confirm your identity before issuing such a passport and may ask applicants to attend an interview in order to do this. A minimum of 6 weeks should be allowed in this case. If any participant does not have a passport or will need to renew it prior to departure, they are recommended to apply at least 3 months in advance. 6. Minimum Numbers and effect on price of party/group size Some of the holidays featured in this brochure require a minimum number of participants before we can operate them. The applicable minimum number depends on various factors and varies from tour to tour. If the group size drops below the minimum number, we reserve the right either to cancel or to run the trip. For our family group holidays there is no guarantee that the holiday will have more than one family participating. We promise to advise you no later than 6 weeks prior to departure if we have to cancel your holiday due to lack of numbers. Clause 5 of our Booking Conditions will then apply. For groups, the price per person given at the time of booking is based on a particular number of participants. If the group size changes at any time prior to departure (including where confirmed participants cancel without being substituted and pay less than 100% cancellation charges), we reserve the right to re-cost the trip and the per person price. Any increase in the price will be payable by all remaining participants. The increase will not be a surcharge and accordingly will not be subject to the surcharge provision set out in clause 4 of our Booking Conditions.

Booking Conditions Your contract will be with Chameleon Worldwide Travel Limited (registered in England with number: 7018224) of Long Barn South, Sutton Manor Farm, Bishops Sutton, Alresford SO24 0AA. For all bookings a binding contract between you and us only comes into existence when we send our written confirmation of booking and invoice to you. We hold an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence issued by the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL number 10186). When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive holiday from us, you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists what is financially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong. We, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL Certificate, will provide you with the services listed on the ATOL Certificate (or a suitable alternative). In some cases, where neither we nor the supplier are able to do so for reasons of insolvency, an alternative ATOL holder may provide you with services you have bought or a suitable alternative (at no extra cost to you). You agree to accept that in those circumstances the alternative ATOL holder will perform those obligations and you agree to pay any money outstanding to be paid by you under your contract to that alternative ATOL holder. However, you also agree that in some cases it will not be possible to appoint an alternative ATOL holder, in which case you will be entitled to make a claim under the ATOL scheme (or your credit card issuer where applicable). If we, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL certificate, are unable to provide the services listed (or a suitable alternative, through an alternative ATOL holder or otherwise) for reasons of insolvency, the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust may make a payment to (or confer a benefit on) you under the ATOL scheme. You agree that in return for such a payment or benefit, you assign absolutely to those Trustees any claims which you have or may have arising out of or relating to the non-provision of the services, including any claim against us, the travel agent or your credit card issuer where applicable. You also agree that any such claims may be re-assigned to another body, if that other body has paid sums you have claimed under the ATOL scheme. The flights and flightinclusive holidays we arrange are ATOL protected providing they are made available in the UK. For further information visit the ATOL website at www.atol.org.uk.


The Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT) provides financial protection under the Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992 for Chameleon Worldwide Travel Ltd., and in the event of their insolvency, protection is provided for the following: 1. non-flight packages commencing in and returning to the UK; 2. non-flight packages commencing and returning to a country other than the UK; and 3. flight inclusive packages that commence outside of the UK, which are sold to customers outside of the UK. 1, 2 and 3 provides for a refund in the event you have not yet travelled. 1 and 3 provides for repatriation. Please note that bookings made outside the UK are only protected by ABTOT when purchased directly with Chameleon Worldwide Travel Ltd. We are a member of ABTA (ABTA number Y0185). ABTA and ABTA members help holidaymakers to get the most from their travel and assist them when things do not go according to plan. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. For further information about ABTA, the Code of Conduct and the arbitration scheme available to you if you have a complaint (see clause 23 of our full Booking Conditions), contact ABTA at 30 Park Street, London, SE1 9EQ or see www.abta.com. In order to make a booking, please follow the procedure set out under Booking Information. 1. A binding contract between us and you comes into existence when we send our confirmation invoice to the lead passenger or your travel agent. We both agree that English law (and no other) will apply to that contract and to any dispute, claim or other matter of any description that arises between us (“claim”) (except as set out below). We both also agree that any claim (and whether or not involving any personal injury) must be dealt with under the ABTA arbitration scheme (if the scheme is available for the claim in question and you wish to use it – see clause 23) or by the Courts of England and Wales only unless, in the case of Court proceedings, you live in Scotland or Northern Ireland. In this case, proceedings must either be brought in the Courts of your home country or those of England and Wales. If proceedings are brought in Scotland or Northern Ireland, you may choose to have the contract and your claim governed by the law of Scotland or Northern Ireland as applicable (but if you do not so choose, English law will apply). 2. Payment must be made as set out under Booking Information. If we do not receive all payments due (including any surcharge where applicable) in full and on time, we are entitled to assume that you wish to cancel your booking. In this case, we will be entitled to keep all payments which are paid or due at that date. If we do not cancel straight away because you have promised to make payment, you must pay the cancellation charges shown in Table B depending on the date we reasonably treat your booking as cancelled. Table B - Cancellation Charges More than 60 days before departure

deposit

45 - 59 days before departure

50%

31 - 44 days before departure

75%

30 days or less before departure

100%

Please note, deposits are not refundable in the event of your cancellation except as set out in these Booking Conditions. Deposits include any additional amounts payable at the time of booking to cover non refundable elements of the holiday which need to be paid to suppliers at this stage or prior to balance due date. Partial cancellation may result in additional costs being payable by the remaining participants – see clause 6 of the Booking Information.

If you make your reservation through a travel agent we shall address all communications to the agent. Except for flight inclusive bookings, all monies you pay to one of our authorised travel agents for your holiday with us will be held by the agent on your behalf until we issue our confirmation invoice. After that point, your agent will hold the monies on our behalf until paid to us. For flight inclusive bookings, all monies paid to any authorised travel agent of ours for your holiday with us will be held on behalf of and for the benefit of the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust subject to the travel agent’s obligation to pay such monies to us in accordance with our trading terms unless we fail. In the unlikely event of our financial failure, all monies then held by the travel agent or subsequently paid by you to the travel agent will be held by the agent on behalf of and for the benefit of the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust without any obligation on the agent to pay such monies to us. 3. If you wish to make any alterations to your holiday we will make every reasonable effort to accommodate these,

but cannot guarantee that alterations will be possible. If the alterations you request are possible, these will be subject to payment of any amendment or other charges imposed or incurred by the relevant supplier plus the sum of £50 per booking for each change to cover our administrative costs. Requests for amendments must be made in writing by the lead passenger. Any cancellation of the entire booking or of the booking of any participant must be notified to us in writing by the lead passenger. The date on which the letter is received by us will determine the cancellation charges applicable. The applicable cancellation charges will be as set out in Table B (below) and are expressed as a percentage of the total holiday price (excluding amendment charges and insurance premiums) payable by the participant(s) cancelling. Amendment charges and insurance premiums are not refundable in the event of your cancellation. Depending on the reason for cancellation, you may be able to reclaim these cancellation charges (less any excess) under the terms of your insurance policy. Claims must be made directly to the insurance company concerned. 4. We reserve the right to make changes to and correct errors in quoted prices at any time before your holiday is confirmed. Once the price of your chosen holiday has been confirmed at the time of booking, we will only increase or decrease it in the following circumstances. A surcharge or refund (as applicable) will be payable, subject to the conditions set out in this clause, in the event of a change in transportation costs (e.g. fuel, scheduled airfares and any other airline surcharges which are part of the contract between airlines (and their agents) and the tour operator) or in costs, dues, taxes or fees payable for services such as landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports or airports or in the exchange rate(s) which have been used to calculate the cost of your holiday. Even in the above cases, only if the increase in our costs exceeds 2% of the total cost of your holiday (excluding insurance premiums and any amendment charges) will we levy a surcharge. If any surcharge is greater than 10% of the cost of your holiday (excluding insurance premiums and any amendment charges), the lead passenger will be entitled to cancel the booking and receive a full refund of all monies paid to us (except for any amendment or previously levied cancellation charges) or alternatively purchase another holiday from us as referred to in clause 5 below. Although insurance (where purchased through us) does not form part of your contract with us or of any “package”, we will consider an appropriate refund of any insurance premiums paid to us if you can show you are unable to use/reuse or transfer your policy in the event of cancellation or purchase of an alternative holiday. Where a surcharge is payable, there will be an administration fee of £5 per person. Please note that travel arrangements are not always purchased in local currency and some apparent changes have no impact on the price of your holiday due to contractual and other protection in place. A refund will only be payable if any decrease in our costs exceeds 2% as set out above. Where a refund is due, we will pay you the full amount of the decrease in our costs. You have 14 days from the issue date printed on the surcharge invoice to tell us if you want to cancel or purchase another holiday where applicable. If you do not tell us that you wish to do so within this period of time, we are entitled to assume that you will pay the surcharge. Any surcharge must be paid with the balance of the cost of the holiday or within 14 days of the issue date printed on the surcharge invoice, whichever is the later. We promise not to levy a surcharge within 30 days of the start of your holiday. No refunds will be payable if any decrease in our costs occurs within this period either. 5. We start planning the holidays we offer many months in advance. Occasionally, we have to make changes to and correct errors in details both before and after bookings have been confirmed and cancel confirmed bookings. Whilst we always endeavour to avoid changes and cancellations, we reserve the right to do so. Most changes are minor. Occasionally, we have to make a “significant change”. A significant change is a change made before departure which, taking account of the information you give us at the time of booking and which we can reasonably be expected to know as a tour operator, we can reasonably expect to have a major effect on your holiday. Significant changes prior to departure, include; a change of outward departure time or overall length of time you are away of twelve or more hours*, a change of UK departure point* to one which is more inconvenient for you and a significant change of itinerary missing out one

or more major destination substantially or altogether (on which our decision is final). NB Please also see clause 8. *Only applies where transport to and from the UK forms part of your contracted arrangements with us. If we have to make a significant change or cancel, we will tell you or your travel agent as soon as possible. If there is time to do so before departure, we will offer you the choice of the following options:(a) (for significant changes) accepting the changed arrangements; or (b) ) purchasing an alternative holiday from us, of a similar quality to that originally booked if available. Providing it is possible to do so, we will offer at least one alternative holiday of at least equivalent standard for which you will not be asked to pay any more than the original price. If this holiday is in fact cheaper than the original one, we will refund the price difference. If the lead passenger does not wish to accept the holiday we specifically offer, you may choose any of our other then available holidays. You must pay the applicable price of any such holiday. This will mean you paying more if it is more expensive or receiving a refund if it is cheaper; or cancelling or accepting the cancellation in which case you will receive a full and quick refund of all monies you have paid to us. Please note, the above options are not available where any change made is a minor one. If we have to make a significant change or cancel, we will as a minimum (where compensation is appropriate) pay you the compensation payments set out in Table C (below) depending on the circumstances and when the significant change or cancellation is notified to you or your travel agent subject to the following exceptions. Compensation will not be payable and no liability beyond offering the above mentioned choices can be accepted where we are forced to make a change or cancel as a result of unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which we could not have avoided even with all due care (for example, but not limited to, where the Foreign and Commonwealth Office advise against travel or all but essential travel to your destination after your booking has been confirmed) or where we have to cancel because the minimum number of persons required to operate your holiday is not reached – please see Booking Information. No compensation will be payable and the above options will not be available if we cancel as a result of your failure to comply with any requirement of these Booking Conditions entitling us to cancel (such as paying on time) or if the change made is a minor one. A minor change is any change which is not a significant change. Table C - Compensation payments Period before departure within which significant change/ cancellation is notified

Compensation per person

More than 56 days

Nil

56 – 43 days

£10

42 – 29 days

£15

28 – 15 days

£20

14 – 0 days

£30

In the unlikely event that we become unable to provide a significant proportion of the services you have booked after you depart, we will endeavour to make alternative arrangements in respect of those services at no extra charge, or, if we are unable to do so, or you do not accept these alternative arrangements for a good reason, we will provide you with transport back to your point of departure with us as soon as we are reasonably able to (using the same type and class of transport included in the holiday) and a pro rata refund of the cost of the remainder of your holiday . In addition, if appropriate, we will pay you compensation of an amount which is reasonable taking into account the circumstances. Compensation and refunds (unless obtained from any supplier) will not be payable where the situation is caused by force majeure – see clause 6. 6. Except where otherwise expressly stated in these Booking Conditions, we regret we cannot accept liability or pay any compensation where the performance or prompt performance of our obligations under our contract with you is prevented or affected by or you otherwise suffer any damage or loss a result of “force majeure”. In these Conditions “force majeure” means any event or circumstances which we or the supplier of the service(s) in question could not, even with all due care, foresee or avoid. Examples include (in all cases whether actual or threatened) war, riot, civil strife, terrorist activity, industrial disputes, natural or nuclear disaster, epidemics / pandemics, fire, adverse weather conditions, unusual water levels in rivers and seas and closure of airspace or airports.

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speak to a travel specialist

01962 737 560 visit our website

familiesworldwide.co.uk send an email

hello@familiesworldwide.co.uk visit our office Families Worldwide, Long Barn South, Sutton Manor Farm, Bishop’s Sutton, Alresford, SO24 0AA We’re open Monday to Friday 8am - 6pm and Saturday 9am - 5pm Connect with us on social media... Like us /familiesworldwide

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Discover the colourful world of Chameleon The Chameleon Travel Group consists of Adventure Worldwide, Chameleon Tailor-Made, Families Worldwide, Schools Worldwide and Walks Worldwide. Find out more at chameleonworldwidetravel.com.

© CHAMELEON WORLDWIDE TRAVEL LTD 2017/18 No portion of this brochure may be reproduced without the prior written consent of Chameleon Worldwide. Photographs: With thanks to our clients, colleagues, suppliers and tourist offices.

YOUR TRAVEL AGENT


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